We replaced our fifteen year old refrigerator the other day. It's nice and should save on the electricity bill as the old one was a pre-energy savings model. This also has solved my Ice Maker problem.
| 05 Aug 2008 by Brother Dan Souza |
| August 23 | ||
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After a very very busy July and August, things are now slowing down. The North Carolina meeting were exceptionally blessed by the Lord. As were the meetings in Texas, Rhode Island, Massachusetts and New York. The new refrigerator is working well, even the ice maker! Today Faith and I will be working outside getting caught up on some yard work (I wish grass and bushes would go on vacation, but they keep growing) The car is now over 215,000 miles and seems to be running very well. I am currently four meetings behind in the posting in the Evangelism and Revival Report of the site. Hope to get to some of that later today. |
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| Aug 5 | ||
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It's hard to believe that Faith will start school in less than three weeks. The summer just flew by so fast. We didn't have a vacation this summer so we are taking a few extra days on our way to North Carolina to visit Lancaster PA. While there we plan on seeing the Sight and Sounds presentation of Creation. We have a meeting at the Springmore Baptist Church NC, where Jonathan is ministering in music. Our plans are to see Tim and Trish in VA on our way back. We replaced our fifteen year old refrigerator the other day. It's nice and should save on the electricity bill as the old one was a pre-energy savings model. This also has solved my Ice Maker problem. |
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| July 24 | ||
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We were not home long before our meeting in Akron New York. We had a really good Family Conference. Immediate changes were made in homes and families. Today is my oldest son's birthday. Happy Birthday Tim Lots of rain the last two days. I have been chopping down the "honey do" list that Faith has for me. I was told it would cost $1,000 to fix my car A/C. But thanks to my mechanic cousin I did not have to have spend that. A sealant was added and now I am "cool" again. Received word that the wife of a Pastor friend has been diagnosed with cancer. Please pray for them. |
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| July 15 | ||
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Faith and I returned home (on her birthday) from our Texas trip with great rejoicing. The Lord saved souls, new converts were baptized and believers drawn closer to the Lord. While at the Austin Airport we saw and elderly woman look very confused. We asked if we could help her. She was dropped off and really was lost as to what to do. We helped her get her boarding pass and wheel chair. Later we found out her son was a believer and met him before we left. Such a joy to know we can be a blessing to others. I will post more as soon as I can on the Revival and Evangelism page. Yep the grass needs cutting and I should get to that this afternoon. In two days we leave for upstate New York for a Family Conference. |
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| June 21 | ||
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I think I might have fixed the A/C on the car. Repair shops wanted over $1,000, but thanks to my cousin (owns a repair shop) putting in a can of stop leak it been working good so far for a week. Faith and I were able to clear out a lot brush along the side of our driveway this week. Faith and I attended the wedding of a fine young couple of our church. I don't know how long it has been since I saw a bride actually blush at the first kiss. Others might have but I was really up close this time so it was more obvious. Nice to see innocents in the lives of young people today. I start a week long Revival meeting in NY this week then off to Texas for three weeks. |
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| June 10 | ||
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Faith and I returned from an Eight Day Tent Meeting with rejoicing hearts. Many were saved and so many lives touched. (I am really working hard to get the Evangelism and Revival Report up to date). All five lawns had to be mowed, which I did yesterday. Its been in the 90's. The A/C on my car needs repair to the tune of $1,000, so I will sweat it out until that can be fixed. While in the Tent meeting, Faith and I celebrated our 39th wedding anniversary!! Matt and his family came down for the weekend and he preached several times as well. |
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| June 1 - Cake and Boots | ||
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Mrs. Souza is finally back as my full time wife (I share her with the Christian School). School is finished and she will be traveling with me this summer. Last night Matt and the family were up for a double Birthday party. Jenna, my youngest granddaughter was born within 3 hours of my birthday so we celebrate together. Ben my third son was born ON my birthday. He is currently in Ohio. The girls rode the tractor and later we all played boccie ball. We leave soon for a Tent Meeting in New Jersey.   Jenna showing off her New Boots.  |
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| May 26 Memoral Day | ||
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Today I returned from a three day meeting in Medina NY. It is Memorial Day. As I traveled I listened to a live radio broadcast of a local Memorial Day service. It reminded me how much we owe those who died so we could live in freedom. As I drove the highway, there were no check points and no road blocks. I was free to travel as I wished. God Bless America - AGAIN It's good to be back home. Faith finishes up school and will be with me in my travels this summer. |
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| May 20 | ||
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Faith and I attended the New England Baptist College graduation. It was the first graduating class of the student body that entered as freshman four years ago. In all sixteen graduated into fields of Christian service. So far I have been able to keep up with the yard work between meetings, had the oil changed in my car and got caught up on various small projects. This Thursday I will preach at the Eighth Grade graduation service of Central Baptist Church. |
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| May 9 | ||
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I can't believe how busy the Lord is keeping me. As of now I don't have an open Sunday until the end of the year. Lately I have been to Michigan and Massachusetts with wonderful blessings of the Lord. In between meetings I was able to finish up the yard work, cleaning up from the winter mess. Had my Brother Bob and his wife Nancy visit from Washington state for a week. Wonderful family time. Fired up the lawn mower and grill for the first time. That makes a sure sign of summer! |
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| April 10 | ||
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A few minutes ago I received a phone call telling me of a very dear Christian woman in our church, going home to Glory. Faith and I had visited her a few times during her hospital stay and planned to go back this evening. But her appointment with the Lord came first. As always it is a bitter/sweet time. Faith would pick her up for each service and I would also when I was local. She always was the picture of what a Christian should be. She had the sweetest spirit and the most tender heart you could imagine. She rests now from her labors in the joy and presents of the Lord Jesus Christ. |
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| April 2 | ||
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My plumbing skill are improving!! Fixed the tub drain. Thanks to Liquid Plumber. I saw my first Robin the other day, a sure sign of Spring. I have some yard work that needs to get done, but not as much as in past years. I won't even need the chain saw this year as the branches are not like the limbs that broke off in the past. I had a pink slip (canceled meeting-thus laid off ) this week so was able to finish my taxes and get caught up on a lot of office and household things. For a long time I have had some neck and shoulder problems that have gotten worse. I will see a doctor this week. The pain before was just a nuisance but now has become more dominate but not really restrictive, except in sleeping. |
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| March 10 | ||
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Lots of rain and wind the past few days. Rivers are at flood stages, but nothing seems to be affecting us here much. Just a very slight seepage in the basement. Not even enough to run the sump pump. Faith and I were able to attend the Spring Banquet at our church. Most times I am in meetings somewhere else. It was enjoyable to see my church family again and renew our fellowship. I hope to finish my taxes this week -- pray for meeeeeeeeeeee. |
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| March 6 | ||
| I returned from sunny warm Florida to cold and cloudy Connecticut. When I walked in the house Faith had left me a note. How sweet I thought to have a loving message waiting for me. The note was simple .. "There is something wrong the furnace - no heat" It did however say she loved me and that put a smile on my face . Hummm, why does the word "Snow Bird" enter my mind!! (its what they call people from the north who go south for the winter). Well $385.00 later we have heat. Again I hear the echo "Snow Bird". But I know New England is where the Lord wants me. | ||
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| February 23 | ||
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Faith had President's Day off from school so we spent time together - cleaning the basement. I found stuff I forgot I had. Yesterday school was canceled due to more snow, about 7" in all. Been working on my Income Tax. I am amazed that living in the "Land of the Free" cost so much. But again it looks like I do not fit into any income bracket high enough to pay any tax. In two hours I will leave to fly to Deltona Florida for 10 days. Roads and sky are clear so should be no problem. |
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| Feb. 15 | ||
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Been cold, with snow and ice. Faith had no school on Wednesday due to the storm. We spent the day together doing things around the house. I did get the kitchen faucet installed. It went well (remember I am not a plumber by any means of the imagination) But I did have one problem. The part that connects for the spray hose was supposed to just "snap" on. Well, I got it on and when I turned on water it spayed all right - all over me, on my back .. In the cabinet under the sink. For the life of me I could not get it to "snap" on. Then I found the part was defective. Got a new one and it did "snap" on and now only sprays when you push the button. I'll stick to my calling - Preaching. |
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| Feb. 6 | ||
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Had a great Christmas. All but Tim were home. New Years was spent at church. Yesterday we had to get fuel oil for the first time since mid winter last year, so we did stretch it pretty good. Really had great meetings in January ( will post them very soon). Fixed the bathroom faucet and now I have to put in a new fixture in the kitchen sink. God did not call me to be a plumber -- thats for sure. When I was replacing the stem in the bathroom sink I had the hot and cold supply reversed. So after I got them right, I could not get the stem to seat all the way down in the fixture. Sooooooo I pulled it out... only thing was I forgot to turn the water off and well, yes, you guessed it .. I was soaked, the wall was soaked, and the ceiling was dripping. I won't quit my day job for plumbing. So you plumbers out there -- your career is safe. |
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| December 18 - Mail Box | ||
The first snow storm ended with about 9 inches on my front lawn and driveway. It was light an fluffy and easy to move. However, a second storm came two days later and it was mostly sleet, freezing rain and snow all mixed together. And YEP this was the storm that GOT MY MAIL BOX! Seems like each year my mail box gets hit. Once by a police car (that was interesting), once by an out of control car, by vandalism, but mostly by the states snow plows. Well, today I put the box back up with 5/8 inch bolts with 1 and half inch washers. I feel so confident that it will now withstand ANY plows flying snow that I am tempted to put a target on it!! Ok such boasting is foolish -- just let me have my humble smug grin then.  |
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| December 13 - SNOW | ||
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Right now we are having a snow fall of six inches so far and it's still falling. The prediction is about 8-10 inches. I have been in a Christian School Revival this week but today it was canceled. Faith had school canceled also so we thought it would be a good time to put the Christmas things around the house. With Christmas music playing, the snow falling outside, a nice warm cup of tea and decorations all around .. it looks like Christmas for sure. They say this weekend we are to get a bigger storm... over a foot of snow predicted. Ahh the Northeast is a great place to live. Ok, all my friends in Florida, Texas, and those down south .... remember not to covet my snow! |
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| December 7 | ||
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Always amazes me how fast time moves -- We all had a great Thanksgiving time. Matt, Trish and the girls came up for the day. Made a big pile of leaves in the back yard then the girls and myself jumped in them and had a blast throwing leaves at each other. But for a short time we did lose one in the pile. But she popped out in a dramatic fashion. I taught a class a the New England Baptist College which I enjoyed very much. Been busy around the house when home. Fixed the shower faucet among the many fix it jobs building up. Sent out a bunch of Tracts orders to 7 states yesterday. All but one Revival Report are now posted. Finally getting caught up on that part of the ministry. |
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| Nov 20 | ||
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The snow, the snow, the snow -- yeah it snowed today. Not much were I live but some places got over 4 inches. Now I have to put the snow shovels on the back porch. Oh well, that time of year. We finally had to turn on the heat in the house. I was hoping to make it to Thanksgiving! We are able to keep the thermostat at 60 so far but expect to have to raise it to our normal setting of 65 as winter comes in full force. Matt and his family will be with us for Thanksgiving. Had my annual physical this week. Everything seems to be ok for which I am thankful. |
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| Nov 4 | ||
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Had a fantastic meeting out in Kansas at the Hillcrest Bible Baptist Church. I was a bit worried on my return fight home. It seemed like I could not get a seat picked on the plane online. The system showed all seats reserved. But when I checked in they put me ROW 2. Wow never been in that class before. I have just about gotten the yard work done for winter. Cut some low branches hanging over the driveway and the yearly cutting of the umbrella trees. Now the leaves are falling. As is my custom I wait for a very strong wind to blow them away. I also have to bring the grill into the garage. One winter I was wondering what that funny looking snow man was out in the back yard. |
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| Oct 17 - Car passed 200,000 miles | ||
Well, praise the Lord, the car passed 200,000 miles and the tires have all stayed on too!!    Had a great trip to New Jersey and returned home to a list of "to do's". Got most of them done and will now prepare a report to my home church during our Mission Conference this week, then will fly to Kansas for a Revival Meeting. Been cool but we have not turned on the heat yet. It's about 60 degrees most of the time so its not bad. |
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| Oct 10 | ||
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The leaves are changing color and look so pretty. Now I go from mowing the lawn to raking leaves!! I am praying for a strong wind to blow them away .. Only problem is that as my leaves go my neighbors come. With the car fixed I just returned from a trip of over 2,100 miles from Maine to Ohio to Pennsylvania and now to New Jersey. The Lord saved a good number of souls and all my tires stayed on the car this time too. On this trip I will have turned over 200,000 miles. |
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| Sept. 13 | ||
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Spent the last couple of days at a fellowship meeting. It was a great time and Matt was able to be with me. That made it even more enjoyable. I will need to get to the grass again and start to get the house ready for winter. I will be in NJ, ME and OH the next few weeks. I got word from the State of Connecticut that my name and SS number (and Faith's) were on a laptop stolen from a state employee. The state is giving fraud insurance free as well as issuing fraud alters to the major credit bureaus. About 100,000 names were on the laptop. |
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| Sept. 1 | ||
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The past few days been busy getting estimates on my car fender repair. Looks like Tuesday it will be done. The back field was badly in need of mowing. It was so high I could not cut it in one cut but had to make 3 passes. Also did a lot of small chores around the house (honey do day). We shut down our freezer. Our electricity bill was just so high we are testing to see if that will make a difference. The freezer is over 30 years old and back then they never heard of energy efficacy. We had a turkey in it that we cooked up and Matt and his family came over to help us eat it -- after dinner we played boccie ball. My team actually won this time! Will start a very busy fall and winter schedule tomorrow with 2008 filling up fast. |
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| Aug 28 | ||
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Wow, six meetings behind in posting the Revival Reports. Should get caught up on these weeks. Spent most of the day getting estimates for the fender repair I need after my tire come off (see previous post). The car is fixed except for the fender. No damage was done to the under structure. I had to replace the hub, rotors and brakes. I will cut the back lawns tonight before dark. Faith started teaching school today in full swing. Only 179 school days before I have her back full time. |
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| Aug 22 - Tire came off my car | ||
| Just a quick prayer request. Tonight I was on my way to preach in revival in Brooklyn CT. I just gotten off the interstate when the front tire came off my car. It rolled past me and I watched it go down the road and into the woods. There was much scraping and sparks as the brake rotor scraped on the pavement. Faith and I are ok. I don't know yet about the car. Just pray for God's help and direction and also praise Him there were no injuries to us or other cars. | ||
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| August 3 | ||
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It's been warm, but I have no complaints. The Oil Man did not come once this summer! But the heat and rain does make the grass grow faster. I finished the last of mowing this afternoon. It should last until we return from Tennessee. I was just finishing up my morning shower when all of a sudden the water stopped!! Come to find out the pump down in the well ... 175 feet down ... had died. So call the water pump man and by the end of the day (and almost $1,500 later) the pump was dug up, pulled up, replaced and covered up. Now water flows again .. Ahh how spoiled we are. The worst in the old days I guess would be that rope broke and you lost bucket. Maybe $10.00 for a new rope and $20.00 for another bucket. But then you had to haul it into the house, wipe up the spills and heat it for hot water. I guess I like modern day things -- like indoor plumbing!!  |
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| July 30 | ||
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Returned from seventeen days in Texas with great rejoicing. Preached in Houston, Llano, and Dallas. The Lord saved souls and touched lives in a great way. Hope to post the meeings before the end of the week. We did have a small hang up our departure from Connecticut but thanks to modern day laptops and cell phones all worked out well. The grass is not as high as I thought it would be but because of rain I still can not cut it. How sad that makes me feel. Gearing up for VBS at a church nearby then off to Tennessee to preach in Knoxville and spend time with family. Yeah the Ice Maker still not fixed, but at least I am not home long enough for it to matter!! |
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| July 10 | ||
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In about 3 hours Faith and I will fly to Dallas Texas. We will be in churches in Dallas, Houston and Llano. I mowed the lawns this morning so when I come home I can find the house without having to wade through a jungle. On the 15th Faith will have a birthday. I will celebrate it with her in Texas. Well, need to finish packing -- Ahhhh that is one thing about the rapture.. NO PACKING!! Just a ONE WAY flight to Glory!!! Please pray for these meetings. Pray for the power of the Holy Ghost and the anointing of the Lord through His Word. |
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| June 28 | ||
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All winter we complained about the cold and now we complain about the heat. Human I guess. With school being out it is such a blessing to have Faith with me all the time in my travels. I always feel a bit more complete when my "rib" is with me. Have to get up on the roof this week to clean out the gutters. It is a twice a year job. We also were able to find a guy that hauls off junk. We kept him busy for while. Cleaned out the basement and removed a shed in the back yard. Now I have more lawn to mow -- hummm Oh yes I had a colonoscopy done this week. NO fun in the preparation, but I was awake for most of it and got to see how God made me in the inside. About the 3rd bend, I caved in and received the pain medication. But no polyps were found at all. So I have 10 years before I have to have it again. Even so come Lord Jesus! Our insurance did not cover it but thanks to some churches we were able to save for it. God is so faithful and His people so wonderful -- Sometimes I really miss being a Pastor but I love what I am doing. |
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| June 14 | ||
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Things really been busy around here and there is no sign of letting up. Faith and I had our 38th wedding anniversary on the 7th. We went out to Olive Garden then just talked about how good the Lord has been to us -- and He surely has been. Will leave tomorrow for New Jersey then off to western New York for meetings. I just barely got the grass mowed before the rain. Will post the meetings in Framingham MA and Middletown RI when I get back next week. Great time in both places. |
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| June 6 | ||
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There has been a series of thunder storms that have come just about every afternoon for the past few days. Yesterday there was a report of a tornado touching down but no damage was done. For years I have had a grandfathers clock (first owned by my Dad) that was not working. I always wanted to get it running but could not find anyone to work on it. Seems like clock makers have gone the way of shoe makers around here. Last night a good Christian brother came over and worked on it and now its working like new. It tells the time and chimes each quarter hour. A small blessing it may seem to many, but to me it was a long awaited desire fulfilled. Yeah I know .... the ice maker again. Oh well looks like I will be away so much this summer that it can wait. |
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| May 29 | ||
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I finally stopped the leak on the hot water heater! We had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend. Preached in New Bedford MA on Sunday with four adults saved. On Monday, Matt and his family came up for beautiful day of picnic and fellowship. The girls rode the John Deere, played kick ball and we all played Boccie Ball. As I was putting the American Flag on the flag pole I paused to thank the Lord for our country and prayed for those who made and keep America free. |
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| May 26 | ||
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I woke up this morning to my wife (Faith) singing "Happy Birthday" to me. Yeah, I made it to the 61st year of my life. God has been good to me. I am amazed at the number friends that rememberd. Also just a few minutes ago I received word on the home going of a most dear and loved friend. Grace Prindle and her husband were so very influential to me in the early days of my ministry. Grace was carried home just a few minutes ago to enter the presents of the Lord. I will miss her but most of all I will miss her faithful prayers for us. Last night we attended the high school graduation at Central. In the morning I leave for a meeting in New Bedford MA. |
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| May 19 | ||
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I can't believe how fast the grass is growing this year. Must be all the rain we had. I had to replace our hot water heater. A simple job I thought. We gave some thought to a tankless water heater but decided to go with a tank system. It was very hard to find one that met our requirement as to size, space and LP needs. Found one but seems like I can't stop a leak from the inlets. Will take it apart, clean the fitting and try again. Other than that it seems to be ok. I will be cooking hot dogs for the Christian school picnic this week as well. Oh yes, had a great time in New Hampshire with a Christian School revival there. Will post it soon. |
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| May 14 | ||
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Been a pretty busy time gearing up for a very busy summer. Faith and I went to the High School spring play at Central Christian Academy (where she teaches). A good message on the need of salvation was presented. The next night I preached in a Youth Rally at Harvest Baptist Church in New Hartford, CT. About 60 young people were present. Six came forward to be dealt with in the matter of salvation and a host of others flooded the altar with a new commitment to live the changed Christian life consistently day by day. |
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| May 7 | ||
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Today Faith and I went to a funeral of a long time friend. He joins his wife in glory. I am reminded that life is short and we must be about our fathers business As I mentioned two of our granddaughters had birthdays that we celebrated last Friday. On Saturday night I preached at a Men's Dinner Fellowship. Two men responded at the invitation for the need of their souls, while many others asked the Lord for a new vision and zeal to live for Him. On Sunday (will post the meeting soon) I preached in Fairhaven MA and three also responded positively to the invitation of the Lord then on Sunday night I was in New Before MA. So been kept pretty busy. The basement is now dry!!! The grass is cut. The yard is raked and cleaned up ... .humm now what am I going to do with all my spare time???? -- oh yeah the ice maker needs fixing (again) But that is another story.  |
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| May 3 | ||
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Things are starting to get really busy for me now. The yard work is just about finished and I mowed the back lawn yesterday. The front seems to grow slower. I am putting together my July trip to Texas. The Lord worked it out that Faith and I can both fly round trip for a total of $80.00!! It will cost more for car rental than airfare and who knows what gas prices will be. We will be in Texas almost the whole month. The basement has now all been dried out and the dehumidifier is working hard to keep it that way. It's nice to have the windows open and fresh air flowing. Tomorrow we will be at Matt's to celebrate Johanna and Jenna birthday (AKA Pumpkin and Cupcake). |
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| April 23 | ||
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The heavy rains have stopped and now I am drying out the basement. In between meetings I have been working in clearing the yard. The grand kids were up and I took them on the tractor ride they have been asking for all winter. This week we have Revival meetings in our church here in Waterbury. I received word from the First Baptist Church in Stetson ME that they have now taken us on for support.. Praise the Lord. Also Berean Baptist Church in Guilderland Center, NY has raised our support. This is an answer to prayer to which we only told the Lord. Thank God for those who are sensitive to the leading of God in their lives. Somewhere along the line I need to fix the ice maker again |
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| April 17 | ||
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It has been a wet spring for sure. Record rainfall and flooding seems to be the norm the last few days. My basement is wet but not flooded, thanks to a sump pump that has been working very hard. With the rain showers also come the Heavenly showers. The revival in NJ saw at least 6 saved and last week in RI another 2. This week I am in the Spring Bible Conference at Central Baptist Church in Southington. Next week is Revival in my home church, Lighthouse Baptist, Waterbury |
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| April 4 | ||
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Faith and I have been doing some yard work. Found more muscles in my body that I didn't know I had. We reclaimed about 12 feet of land over taken my brush. Amazing how much wild things grow!! I will leave for a revival at the Rosedale Baptist Church in NJ at noon Wednesday. The meeting will close out Easter Sunday. After a kind a quite March, things now get really busy for me thorough the summer. Look like we will be in Texas for the month of July. Ahh yes... finished and sent in my taxes today as well. I wonder why we call ourselves "the land of the FREE?" -- But I do thank God for America and all the men and women who are now standing to keep us in the freedom we enjoy. |
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| March 28 | ||
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The Robins are here!! A good sign of Spring and a welcome one at that. Now that the snow no longer covers the ground, I can see all the work in cleaning up the mess that Winter has left behind. But at least now the mud in our driveway is drying up. I was able to talk to a delivery man about his soul. He seem receptive and took the tract offered to him. We are looking into a tankless hot water heater for the house. Will check out Home Depot. Also a friend of mine will help me rewire our electrical system here. A much needed and long over due project. |
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| March 15 | ||
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The signs of spring looked good. But now they are saying some heavy snow is coming Friday night. I am still going with the ground hog. Got a new mailing out. If you don't receive our letters you can see it on line from my site. Tuesday night we went to the Spring program at Central Christian Academy. All the classes did a great job but with out sounding too prejudice I do think Mrs. Souza's class was the most outstanding. |
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| March 10 | ||
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Been getting warmer after some record cold days and nights. A lot of snow has melted and with some heavy rains had some water in the basement. Not much. The sump pump didn't even kick in. Been working our income taxes. Amazing how much paper work is involved to get the allowable deductions for the ministry. Faith and I will attend the Spring Banquet of our church tonight. |
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| March 5 | ||
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Yesterday morning at the truck stop I talked to a Hindu man. He said he would accept Jesus and add him to his other gods. When I explained to him that it is not adding Jesus but calling on his name as the ONLY true and living God, he then said he could not do that and walked away. Sad Sunday night I was at my home church to see two of my granddaughters get baptized by Matt, their father. It was a special time. Brought Faith's car in for an oil change this morning and now getting caught up on some office work and much neglected correspondence. . |
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| February 24 | ||
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Been trying to get caught up on the web site. I put up a new poll sent on from guest and put the up page for the Snow Camp. Faith and I both had dentist appointments on Monday for routine cleaning. All looked well with no problems for each of us. I was reminded while out shopping about the spiritual darkness enslaving people. Saw many with the "ashes" on their forehead last Wednesday. Matt and his family were here last Sunday for dinner. Amazing how fast the grandchildren grow. Two will be baptized this Sunday. |
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| February 15 | ||
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One of the joys of the ministry is to see young men raise up in the ranks. I was part of an ordination service for Brother John, a member of our church here in Waterbury. He was well prepared and defended the faith exceptionally well. Praise the Lord. Been preaching at the Lakes Pond Baptist Church in Waterford with great blessings of God. The last service had to be postponed because of two snow storms that came back to back. Will now spend some time clearing the snow. One good thing about the snow was that I was able to spend the day with my wife since school was called off. |
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| February 8 | ||
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Snow Camp was awesome!! Five saved, many rededications AND almost every young man was willing to surrender to full time preaching ministry, if the Lord so led them. Many campers signed a Camp Pledge Poster. . . Putting their name to tell the world they are "NOT FOR SALE". They been bought with a price and no offer of the world, flesh or devil can buy them. This poster is now hung in my garage as a reminder to me to pray for them. I started my taxes .. Now where is that fish with the coin in its mouth? |
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| Jan 30 | ||
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Many of you know that my dad was an Ice Man. For those of you who are too young to remember, there was day before TV, Micro waves, and Refrigerators. I remember working in the old Ice House and on the Ice Truck as he would deliver ice to customers. Well, of course today this is no longer an occupation. But I think my ice maker has it in for me. Again it broke. Just something to add to the list. I have never been as busy in January as I have this year. I am behind in just about everything. I am preparing now for two Winter camps along with the scheduled Revival meetings. The ice maker will have to wait! Again. |
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| Jan 15 | ||
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Someone once said they believed in reincarnation because no one can get this far behind in just one lifetime! I can relate to the sentiments of that statement at times. We had a most wonderful Christmas and New Year. All the family were here with the exception of Tim and Trish who spend Christmas with Trish's folks in North Carolina. We missed them but fully understand. Jonathan flew in and then out to Chicago to photograph a wedding. Ben drove back to Ohio and Faith and I kidnaped the grandchildren from Matt and Tricia. I am now preparing the yearly news letter for 2006. There is much to praise God for. 2007 and 2008 are looking to be busy years in the ministry. With 185,000 miles on the car some routine maintenance had to be done and new tires. The Lord provided through His people a way for this to be paid for. Faith and I praise the Lord for pastor, churches and friends who CARE for us. It makes us feel humble and very grateful. Well, I must go and fix up a clog in the shower. But the ice maker is fixed and working! |
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| Dec 9 | ||
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Last night Faith and I were at the Harvest Baptist Church in Torrington, for a Christmas fellowship. What a blessed time it was. I had a VERY new experience in my preaching. The fellowship was held in a members home in which a very large crowd gathered. All 5 down stairs rooms and hallways were filled for the meal. When it came time to preach I had to walk around the house through each room as I spoke. I have heard of circuit riding preachers of the past but I was a circuit boot walking preacher last night. |
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| Dec 7 | ||
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It been an interesting week. The weather has been like a Yoyo, up and down. But from what I hear cold and snow may be coming in the morning. Faith called me to tell me she was stuck on the road. The car was overheating. I went down and saw that it need to be towed. Called AAA. The driver of the tow truck was hurt in a motorcycle accident and had an artificial leg. At one point he asked me if I would do something for him (move the car a bit) I told him I would do anything he asked. He then said to me "How about getting me a new leg -haha" I told that can be done! He looked at me and said. "No I mean a real one" I said sure that is what I meant. Of course he asked how, I told him if he got saved when he died he would get a new leg and a whole new body. His response was sad. He said, "Oh then forget it"  |
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| Dec. 5 | ||
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Like most of us we are gearing up for Christmas. The grand girls came over and helped us put the tree this past weekend. Sunday we were in Middletown RI as we usually are on the first Sunday in December. It was a great meeting. Will get that post up as soon as I do the Medina meeting. Some snow flakes were blowing around today. Nothing to speak of yet. I actually started to "think" about my Christmas shopping and it's not even the 23rd yet. |
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| Nov. 29 | ||
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Had a wonderful Thanksgiving here at home. I preached the Thanksgiving message at my home church here in Waterbury. Afterwards we had the traditional "pie fellowship". Jonathan drove up from North Carolina and Matt and his family were with us. It was really a blessing to have a full table of food and a house of NOISE again. (Mrs. Souza is not a noise maker-but I make up for it) I loved putting all the sections into the table making it over nine feet long. I just sat there and was thankful for all our friends in the ministry who have made it possible for us to carry on the work He has called us to do. Has some maintenance done on the car and will start looking for deals on tires before winter sets in. And no, the ice maker is not fixed yet! |
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| Nov 16 | ||
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This morning and afternoon I was at the Grace Baptist Church in Windsor, CT, for the "Young at Hearts" Thanksgiving service and dinner. It was a most delightful time. The testimonies, the service, and of course the Thanksgiving meal were just wonderful. Pastor Stephens now has been there for 2 years and the Lord is blessing the minsitry(in spite of him being a North Carolina Tar Heels fan!!) The wind is now kicking up and they predict stronger winds throughout the night with heavy rain. Faith and I leave in the afternoon for a meeting in Medina NY. |
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| Nov 13 | ||
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The past week sure has been busy for us. Between meetings Faith and worked the election polls for our town. She was a "checker" which means she checked to see if people were registered to vote. I was a "machine tender". I stood by the actual voting machine to be sure it was working and folks knew how to insert their ballot. It was a long day .. 14 hours. But it was fun. Been getting the house ready for winter. Locking down the windows and putting up storm windows in my office and back porch. I still need to get the Ice Maker fixed!! I was going to do that but then the shower drain got clogged and that took first place on the list. Also today went to the doctor for a check up and out side of getting older everything seems to be ok. |
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| Nov. 4 | ||
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The meetings in Maine at the Grace Baptist Church in Gardiner went well. A bus Mom got saved! Did I say the meetings went well? ... that alone made the meeting GREAT! Ben is home for the weekend and Matt and his family are joining us for lunch today. I will leave this afternoon for Brockton MA for a meeting tonight and off to New Bedford in the morning. This will mean I will drive 3 hours up and 3 hours back today then again 3 hours in the morning and 3 hours back tomorrow. I think my car wants a vacation! |
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| Oct 26 | ||
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Winter is starting to push its way into New England with some very cool nights and even days. Filled my oil tank and was reminded of something. My oil man is the son of the family that first stopped by my house to bring to Sunday School and church many years ago. I really didn't recognize him but he did me and brought this to my attention. I am thankful for (before the days of the bus ministry) those who cared for a kid living on Minor Mountain. Also we had a very pleasant visit with one of Faith's Bible college roommates who was visiting New England from Colorado. She and her husband stayed a couple days with us and renewed a 40 year friendship. She was also a brides maid in our wedding 37 years ago. My heart was so warmed to visit with them and see their love for the Lord and determination to stay true to the Word of God in an age when change seems to be "spiritual" |
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| Oct 17 | ||
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It's so hard to believe how fast the summer has gone. The fall is looking beautiful with the changing leaves but alas.... soon they will fall and will need to be raked. A good north wind could take care of most them!! I am getting caught up in the Reports section of the web site. I am home for three days then off again to preach a mission conference in New York state. I just returned from a soul winning meeting in New Jersey. We knocked on 1,100+ doors. Souls were saved and visitors came to the services. More in the report later. |
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| Oct 3 | ||
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The cool weather is a welcome change from the hot summer days. The trees are turning colors and soon will have to be raked. Amazing how many leaves one tree can have. The Mission Conference went well at Lighthouse and I was able to give a report on the Lord's hand on my ministry. We met our goal and have added new missionaries to our Mission Family. The ladies of the church presented hand made quilts to all the missionary wives. My wife had gone several nights to help make them and she was very much surprised to find that she also was included in receiving a quilt. Also the Pastor's wife received one. It seemed that when my wife was there they worked on my Pastor's wife quilt and when she was there they worked on Faith's. Both were over joyed at this unexpected blessing. |
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| Sept. 26 | ||
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It has been a crazy travel time, but I love it. One week I am in Maine then in Florida then back to Maine. But the Lord blessed in souls saved and a good spirit of revival. I THINK I mowed for the last time this year .. Ahh now for the rake. Our church starts it Mission Conference this week. I love this meeting... I am not only a missionary from the church but I get to GIVE in Faith Promise too!! Oh yeah.. I will be getting to posting the Revival Reports .. Promise! |
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| Sept. 13 | ||
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The days are getting shorter and next month the time will change making it get darker earlier. Reminds of what Jesus said "I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work. John 9:4 Got back from Maine and will head for Deltona Florida on Saturday then back to Maine the next weekend. I still have to fix the ice maker leak on the refrigerator and get the yard ready for winter. The oil man filled our heating oil tank yesterday--- ouch! |
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| Sept 7 | ||
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This week I have been preaching the Fall Revival at the New England Baptist College in Southington CT. What a wonderful group of young people. The Lord spoke and hearts heard. I finish up tomorrow then head to Maine for a meeting. Today I did get to mow the lawns after a very wet couple of weeks. |
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| Sept. 2 | ||
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Faith called out to me "Honey there's water in the basement." Sure enough it was dripping from the floor above. The hose to the ice maker sprung a leak. Well, add it to the "honey do" list. After a few days of sunshine .. It raining again!! Today I am to speak to about 50 kids at a back to school picnic. Might be moved inside if the rain is a problem. In the morning I am speaking at the Central Baptist Church in Southington then each day I am at New England Baptist College speaking for the week in chapel. Then off to Maine. |
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| Aug 29 | ||
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Been raining the last few days. Faith and I baby sat four of the sweetest, greatest and prettiest granddaughters in the world the other night. You know Matt makes me say that!!! And if he didn't my wife would!! I don't feel like a granddad but I sure act like one. Preached recently and unexpectedly at my home church, Lighthouse Baptist in Waterbury. I felt great liberty there as the Lord touched hearts. Many thanks for the Brothers who Souza sized the pulpit. Faith started school with a class of 17 first/second graders. Ah only 178 more school days to go. |
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| Aug. 19 | ||
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Returned from our family time in Washington DC area. We stayed with Tim and Trish in their home. Jonathan came up from NC and Faith's family came from FL. Had a great time visiting the Capital buildings and spending time with family. Pastor Edwards of the Heritage Baptist Church (Where Tim is on pastoral staff) asked me to preach Wednesday night. It was such an honor to stand in that great pulpit. The Lord blessed the preaching of His Word. I will preach in my home church Sunday Morning filling in while my pastor is gone. |
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| Aug. 5 | ||
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I have the cleanest basement in town now (see previous days). But the Honey do list is shrinking. Replaced two electrical dimmers, handles on cabinets and mowed the lawns. But it really is nice just spending the time with my wife, Faith, doing things. Especially since I am gone so much. Had a great talk to a wrong number this afternoon. Told him maybe it was not really a wrong number after all. I was able to give him the plan of salvation. He was Jewish and didn't think much of God because of all the suffering in the world. He had little concern for eternity. How sad. |
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| Aug 3 | ||
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I think I have it figured out -- Cold in the Winter and HOT in the summer. Yeah that makes sense. OK then no complaining. Well its up the hundred mark and that means back to cleaning the basement. That is Faith's idea of A/C. But I must admit it is cooler and we do get a clean basement out of it. In between we are getting ready for our vacation in with family in the DC area. Tim (oldest son) and his wife Trish live in Dale City as well as Faith's sister and her family. Faith's brother and his family are coming up from Florida and hopefully the rest of our boys will be there also. |
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| Aug. 1 | ||
| Well as in most parts of the northeast, its been HOT. In the next few days they are saying it will top 100 with a heat index of 110. My wife had come up with a great way to beat the heat. We are going to clean the basement. Some how its not as relaxing sounding as sitting and drinking lemon aide. | ||
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| July 29 | ||
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Mrs. Souza and I have returned from camp very tired and very joyful. The Lord poured out His Blessings each and every service and in the activities. I have 3 other meetings to post before I get to the camp on the Revival Report page. Between 12-15 were saved!!! Will tell more later in the report section. Today I will do the lawns. Faith has a piano lesson to teach and we must buy food if we are going to eat this week. |
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| July 19 - Saint gone on to glory | ||
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Today was a day mixed with joy and sadness. Faith and I attended and I briefly spoke at the funeral of not only a Christian man but also my cousin. Anthony Lawrence Jr. When home to be with the Lord July 17. I was his Pastor many years ago. I remember his conversion to Christ, his baptism and his faithful service in the bus ministry. He was our bus mechanic who kept the busses rolling and safe. Today he walks with Jesus and has met those who have gone on to glory, saved through the bus ministry in which he labored. |
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| July 17 | ||
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It's hot today. About 95 right now and is supposed to be warm the next few days. I am home for a week before leaving for youth camp next week. I did manage to get three church reports posted and now working on the next five. The Lord provided some side work this week while I am home. It's in the morning and only a few hours so I will be able to spend time with the house projects. |
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| June 22 |
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What a busy busy month it has been. I am now five meetings behind in posting to the revival page and I leave for Llano Texas in the morning. But seeing the souls saved and hearts touched has been a real source of strength to keep me going. You will enjoy the reports if I ever get them up I finally was able to mow the lawns after 2 weeks, did that this morning (the one day I had to be home) then did some office work. |