We (two members of the greece team) have continued to uphold, encourage and pray for Stella who is presently residing at the Mercy Center. We have learned from our short time here (1 wk so far) that patience is a key that unlocks mercy and grace to the addicted, helpless, wounded and desperately vulnerable. Stella has all these characteristics and has never been exposed to a normal life. As each day passes she is learning how to see the world with new eyes. A new birth has taken residence in the heart of Stella. Heavy loads are SLOWLY being removed from her previous lifestyle of drugs/heroin addiction and prostitution. Life is springing up little by little as she recovers from a past life of detriment. Can these dead bones live? Absolutely!! Please keep her in your prayers along with Raven.

The Afhgani community was here on Tues night, and it was an astounding experience. The growth of this newly birthed ministry has multiplied tremendously. At 7pm they desperately flocked together in a huge mass outside the iron doors waiting for the door to be unlocked. Women, men, children and youth (young men) push one another to make their way through. We have to let them in slowly to avoid any violent eruptions amongst themselves. Once everyone is safely inside the Center, the message is preached in Arabic to its entirety. The regulars listen intently with hungry hearts, and newcomers gather with a curious countenance on thier faces. The children (30 or more) squeeze into the small adjacent room. American Bible students from a neighboring college volunteer and are helping hands to the children’s ministry. That in itself is another ministry!

The Lord has provided an Arabic pastor to come on a weekly basis to preach. The following day the Afghani’s return to sift through clothing donations and diapers for the babies. They are predominantely rejected refugees and are very needy people. At one point we were surrounded by almost 20 women begging and pleading to us for clothing for their little ones. So many have given their lives to Christ. Words cannot express the joy in our hearts to see how the God of Israel has touched these Muslims who are learning who the true Savior is.

Please continue to pray that God will be glorified in the nation of Greece.

On Saturday December 6, 2008 I went to do some Christmas shopping at Walmart at Five Towns, NY.

After some time at the check out line I discovered my wallet was missing. $1550.00 in cash and credit cards was gone. My pocket had been picked.
After the initial shock I managed to call the police.

I told my wife that I was not just going to lie down and let the Devil take my stuff. I said I am putting the Devil on notice, he can not have my wallet. On the solid rock I stand because all other ground is sinking sand.

I PRAYED.
Father you said whatever I bind on earth is bound in heaven. Also whatever I lose in heaven is loosed on the earth. I declare and command you Devil to return my wallet in the Name Of Jesus. Father I thank you that by the authority given to your children through your Son, Jesus Christ, I can expect the return of my wallet. I declare it so in the Name above all Names. Jesus Christ. Thank you Lord.

On January 10, 2009, I received a notice in the mail of a package to be picked up at the Post Office. When I arrived, a white envelope with out postage demanded payment before receipt. Since it was addressed to me I decided to pay the due postage. Upon my delight when I opened the envelope I found my wallet. Although the money was missing, all my credit cards, my job ID, and all other personals were there except one debit card. Praise the Lord, Our God answers prayer.

From Raven Member