In Preparation...

 Hello friends and family, it has been a little bit since we gave an update on what is going on for us here in New Zealand.  We are currently in between semesters for the Bible college but this is an important time for us.  This time allows us to be better prepared for the different types of ministry upcoming.

First is learning the culture, customs, and the geography of New Zealand.  Learning these now will help us with the first-time students as they settle in when they arrive.  We will be able to point them in the right direction as needs arise.  For example, if someone needs vitamins, they should go to a pharmacy instead of a store like Kmart. 

Second, becoming a part of our new church family.  We are attending Shoreline Church (www.shoreline.org.nz) in the Tauranga area which has a congregation of about 40 people. Over the summer I have been involved in leading worship and running sound.  Dawn has been getting to know the ladies in the church on Sundays, helping with hospitality as well as attending the woman’s Bible study.  We are able to pour into people and be poured into by this loving family in deeper ways than what would have been possible during the semester.

And lastly, we have been able to observe and talk with people who call New Zealand home.  What are they struggling with?  What do they love about Rotorua?  Where are the best places to buy groceries!  Most kiwis (what New Zealanders call themselves) love their country, but they are concerned about the rising cost of housing, the rising up of local gangs, immigration, racism and the pitfalls facing the youth, like suicide.  While pain and suffering are universal, how much greater is the love of Christ.  While our main ministry is serving at the Bible college, ministry does not stop during the semester breaks.  We need to be aware of the opportunities of ministry all around us.

“For I am persuaded that neither death nor life, nor angels nor principalities nor powers, nor things present nor things to come, nor height nor depth, nor any other created thing, shall be able to separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Romans 8:38-39 (NKJV)

The next semester is coming up in a little over three weeks.  There will be almost 30 students/interns this semester and almost half have never been to this location.  We will begin ramping up our staff meetings shortly and preparing for all that God has in store for us this semester.  We thank you for your prayers, emails, and encouragements.  God Bless!

Andrew and Dawn McBride