This summer Konrad and Betty Binder had a wonderful trip to the Philippines (to the area where they previously served) as a team of seven which, included a family from the Equip360 mission course. The main goal of the trip was to encourage the believers to tackle some challenges in the church and do some needed home repairs.
It was a great joy for them to see how their brothers and sisters in Christ had grown in faith and made remarkable progress. Konrad was able to explain the importance of their ministry, and remind them how important it is that all believers remain connected in the body of Christ and do not isolate themselves.
Another encouraging highlight was to see how actively a sister from the church, is sharing the Gospel. Ten people had asked to be baptised. Most of them have grown in faith through the discipleship of this one lady. The baptism was a beautiful and joyful moment that they celebrated together. A discipleship group has now started for the ones who were baptised and they are going through a Bible course together.
There is also an outreach to taking the Gospel to a neighbouring island on a regular basis. These mission trips are also strengthening the church, especially because more men are taking on leadership roles. People are already interested in baptism. God is clearly working, however continue to pray for protection from division and conflict in the church.
Now back in Germany Konrad and Betty’s workload is also intensive. Students in the Equip360 mission course have started their second year. After the departure of two key team members who had taken on a lot of administrative work, they have now picked up these tasks themselves and have additionally restructured the course so that all essential topics are covered thoroughly.
In addition, they are also preparing for several upcoming conferences. This includes coordinating guest speakers, organising venues and creating materials and campaigns for the events.
As a family, they are doing well. Despite the different challenges that they face at times, they count it an incredible privilege to serve a living Saviour and invest their lives in His kingdom. Betty continues to care for Konrad’s aging mother as her dementia progresses, while also assisting refugee children to learn German and integrate into the local school system.
Please pray:
That the church on the island where they served in the Philippines will continue to grow in faith and be protected from conflict and deception.
For the new believers; that they will be strengthened in their faith and that they will be well shepherded by the church.
The outreach on another, that more people will decide to follow Jesus.
Wisdom and perseverance in their work with the Equip360 programme, especially after the restructuring and the new tasks they have taken on.
The upcoming conferences; that the preparations will go smoothly and that the events will serve God’s glory.
For health and strength to continue this ministry as a family and to withstand the challenges.
Praise:
That the trip to the Philippines went well and that they were able to achieve all our objectives.
For the joy of seeing brothers and sisters in the Philippines grew in their faith.
The spread of the Gospel and for the ten people who decided to be baptised.
That the discipleship group started for the new believers, and they are going through a Bible course.
For the open doors and the willingness of the church to enter into mission work.
For the positive feedback on the Equip360 programme and for the impact of their work on the students.
For the strength and support that helps them to remain faithful in ministry despite many tasks.
Thank you for your prayers.