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JANUARY 2010
 Dear
Friend
At the beginning of 2009 we only had a small glimmer of the things
that God would do and the people He would bring across our paths
and into our lives during that year. What a vast variety of happenings
and personalities! We praise God for all the good, and not so
good, experiences from which we have learnt so much and been
blessed in many ways.
 Another
year has begun – and so we look forward with great expectation
of all that will unfold, knowing that we serve a God who does
all things well – and in His time. The past years of preparation
have been trials in patience and yet so necessary in laying the
groundwork for all that is to come. We just thank the Lord for
another year to serve, expecting His abundant blessings as we
move forward.
 The Hayden
family from Hawaii managed to pack a lot in to the few days they
were with us. It was a wonderful experience and we have made
firm friends for life. Jefferson and Ethan were almost inseparable,
as were Nicole and Sierra. On Saturday 19th the family held a
Christmas party for the local children. We had about 40 children
and babies, plus adults. Most of them live along the river in
a small community not far from us. It was wonderful that so many
new faces were seen to enjoy their time at the church. The program
included craft and games all clearly presenting the story and
purpose of Christ’s birth.
 On
Sunday we attended church here in Phang Nga and again in Phuket
and the family presented a message in song/sign language. Our
own children also sang during the Phuket service. We also witnessed
the baptism of five Thai believers in the river behind our buildings
after the morning service. What a joy to see their commitment
and passion to go on for God.
Monday and Tuesday saw us all at the local primary school again;
this time to do three presentations of the Nativity play to different
sections of the school. Our four children again had the leading
roles and Stephanie and Colleen sang beautifully. Tuesday afternoon
Kanoe, her husband Troy, Ethan (8) and Sierra(6) all worked with
grade three classes on a simple Manger craft activity which was
appreciated by the children and staff at the school.
We were sorry to see them all leave so soon and pray that
God will lead them back again one day.
VISA AND WORK PERMIT It
seems that just when we think we have this all worked out we
find another hiccup!
Although Rommel has a two year work permit with another foundation
we have been granted only 90 day visas. Effectively that means
every 90 days we have to go through the masses of paperwork to
have our visas renewed for the next three months. The fee is
the same as if we were to have the one year visa approved –
only we have to pay it four times a year! The reason is that
the other foundation does not have a simple letter from the Governor
of Phuket allowing a one year visa to be issued for us.
I (Janene) am attempting to obtain a work permit through Eaglesrest
Foundation. If this is approved we will all be able to apply
under my work permit for a full year stay. A saving of $1500
Australian dollars over a year, although initially costing more
to obtain the work permit and visas through Eaglesrest. Of course,
we will also have to apply to the Governor (of Phang Nga) to
supply the required letter but we expect that will be an easier
process than waiting on the other foundation. Please pray
about this and ask that God will go before us in preparing the
government officials to be favourable to our submission.
MYANMAR FAMILIES
We
now are in the process of bringing in three Burmese couples for
time at Eaglesrest. Two of these families serve their own people
in Thailand and the third labours in Myanmar. The family located
in Myanmar are waiting on their visa acceptance so that flights
can be booked as soon as possible. Please keep them all in your
prayers. Other families are also being referred as the new year
begins and we look to God for the resources needed to make it
possible to meet at least some of the needs presented.
ANSWERS TO MINISTRY NEEDS
We
praise God for answers to some of the needs posted last month.
We now have a new kitchen blender which will be a wonderful blessing
for guests in the months ahead (just ask the YWAM’ers who
loved Rommel’s mango and banana smoothies!) Our old van
is sporting new rear tires and has a lot of mechanical fixing
up this past month thanks to supporters who realized the need.
Thank you!
UPCOMING MINISTRY NEEDS
- Our most urgent need right now is for a supervisor/teacher
for our children’s home school program. If you, or someone
you know, have time, ability and a heart to serve, please let
us know.
- Volunteer cooks for guests and visitors to Eaglesrest –
ongoing.
- Volunteer English teachers for local Thai outreach- anytime
from end of March when Donna leaves.
- General helpers for maintenance and odd jobs – ongoing.
- Office assistant/language helper (Thai and English required)
and the financial assistance to cover the wages.
- Approximately $600 for purchase of one set of bunk beds and
mattresses for guest house.
- Microwave to replace the one that recently died. We are using
a very old one that normally would be in the guest house.
- Increase in number of supporters for the general running
costs and maintenance of Eaglesrest Foundation.
- Increase in regular support for our personal family needs.
God Bless you and thanks for another year of prayer and sharing
in the work of ministering in Phang Nga, Thailand.
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