Men of Action

How do I become involved in an oversea mission project without a shot record or a passport?

Recently the staff attended in a conference entitled Catalyst which spotlights developing parameters of church leadership including unique mission opportunities in the United States and abroad. We learned about a unique ministry which helps the widows and orphans of Rwanda who were victimized by internal genocide policies of the Hutu and Tutsi tribes within the region in the late 1990’s. More than two million natives were killed in these horrible tribal wars. The region is home to some of the worlds riches cof fee fields. There is now a group of missionaries engaged in the redemptive work of forgiveness designed to model the redeeming love of God in the world. “The Land of a Thousand Hill Coffee” project unites the survivors of the Hutu and Tutsi tribes in a collaborative project to harvest coffee from the hills that once separated their tribes. Today over 30,000 workers harvest the rich coffee beans from this region and prepare them for export to the United States. The beans are roasted by Rwandans in i Roswell, Georgia and shipped to consumers all over the world. The sales of this bold and unique coffee have done much to restore economic stability to Rwanda. Churches, organizations and individuals were encouraged to support this project. The coffee is sold in 1 lb bags at a cost of $10 per bag. $3 from the sale of every bag of coffee is returned to the Rwandan government. This is in addition to the revenues generated in Rwanda from the harvesting and exportation process of the Hutu and Tutsi tribes. I have several bags of coffee at the church which will be available at $5 per bag to introduce people to the coffee and the ministry. The normal price is $10 per bag. The bags can be purchased whole bean or ground in a medium or bold blend. You may learn more about this ministry project at www.landofathousandhills.com. You may also order direct from the company. I will make some of this coffee available to the Sunday school classes at no cost if you request. I do not intend to be involved in coffee sales for this ministry other than to introduce you to the concept and the mission. Contact me at your convenience if you are interested in sampling native grown Rwandan coffee.

How are we doing on those ministry opportunities we discussed the last time we visited?

We were able to effectively provide transition support for the man who was rendered homeless as a result of a fire which destroyed his home and all of his possessions. We provided glasses, clothing, and temporary food and shelter for this man until he was able to obtain federally assisted housing in Stillwater. Many individual and life groups provided food certificates and clothing along with other” in kind” assistance.
What about the young woman with four young children who was abandoned by her husband who, for spite, restricted access to all their clothes, toys and household possessions in the process?
One of our life groups assumed leadership of this project. We received an out pouring of clothes, household goods and money for rent assistance and food. Another group was able to purchase winter clothing for the children. Another family paid for six months of angel food. Yet another family purchased a pair of basket ball shoes so the 12 year old boy can continue in basketball activities. this fall. The woman attends Life Church, but she has expressed interest in becoming involved with our volunteer ministries at Sunnybrook. We have also extended an opportunity for her to become involved with our Wednesday Night Encounter activities. This family will continue to experience needs until they regain their equilibrium. We have a Life group who has assumed the responsibility of following this family throughout 2008. Call me if you would like to help.

Can I still hook up with the newly formed Men of Action Ministry?

Yes! We have selected 6 team captains who are beginning to enlist volunteers to work in six separate teams who will be called to action when needs arise in the church and in the community. Our Men of Action will be a “Matthew 25” hands and feet ministry to assist those less fortunate and those in need. In so doing, we will “GO” into our community as a group of Sunnybrook Men to engage in “relational evangelism” by spreading the good news about the redemptive work of Christ in the world. It is one thing to talk about the gospel; it is a whole new ball game to demonstrate the Gospel. This ministry grew out of a challenge delivered to our men by Kevin Greer who was our guest speaker from Ozark as a part of Paul Weece’s October Men’s Monday. Accordingly, you will hear more about this ministry and the opportunity for you to join it as a part of our Men’s Monday in November scheduled on Monday night ,November 5th. There will be other opportunities to sign up during worship services on November 11th. Robert Campbell will also speak to our men on November 5th explaining how you can become a Stephen Minister at Sunnybrook. Robert is one of our Stephen Ministry Leaders at Sunnybrook !

Was that little girl able to find a ride to church?..................... Yes!