The Warren Family

Merry Christmas from the Swazi Team!

2011-12-15T18:59:00.002+02:00

Personalize your own free greeting card

Merry Christmas from the Euto Swazi Mission Team! Thank you for your continued prayers, support and love. We pray that this will give you a glimpse of how God used YOU in Africa this past summer. Please continue to pray for your brothers and sisters in Swaziland seeking to share to the GREATEST gift of all ... JESUS!

5K Family Fun Day for Swaziland

2011-04-26T15:16:00.003+02:00

Saturday May 14th, 2011
9:00am - 1:00pm

Oakboro District Park
423 S. Main Street,
Oakboro, NC

Free Concert by Secondmile!!!
Enjoy an outdoor concert by this local
Christian band at the Park Amphitheater.
Concert begins at 10:30am.
Bring your blanket or lawn chair!
Lunch/Concessions available

GAMES & FUN FOR ALL AGES!!!
$10 Entry Fee for Walk OR
$20 Entry Fee for Walk and Event T-Shirt!
Registration begins at 9am; Walk at 9:30am.

INVITE YOUR FRIENDS, INVITE YOUR FAMILY, COME OUT AND ENJOY A BEAUTIFUL DAY WALKING, PLAYING, AND WORSHIPING IN THE PARK!

*Do not have to be a registered walker to enjoy the activities and concert!

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

Sponsored by Euto Baptist Church ~ Donations to benefit Swaziland Mission Team

To learn more about this event or to register on-line,
visit www.eutobaptist.com or call 704.385.8117.

Swazi Prayer Team launched ...

2011-02-25T08:00:00.002+02:00

Will you join us and commit to pray for the people of Swaziland, and for the Euto mission team that will be serving there in August 2011? If God is calling you to be a part of this team, please send your contact information and email address to warrensinafrica@gmail.com

Thank you for prayerfully considering this request, and for all the many ways you love and support us all!
Euto Swazi Mission Team

Scripture Dolls for Swaziland

2011-01-21T01:00:00.000+02:00

Do you love sewing?

Would you like to share the love of Christ with an orphan in Africa by using that gift?

In August 2011, a mission team from Euto Baptist Church will be ministering and serving the Lord in Tshaneni, Swaziland. In just ONE of their villages alone, there are 400 orphans. Children would ask for just a small piece of paper ... something of their own to have.

Would you like to show one of these children that they are loved and not forgotten by making a small doll (rag doll, sock doll, etc.)? The design is entirely up to you, the only thing we ask is that each doll have it's own scripture verse ... one that God has placed on your heart to share with this special child.

To learn more about this ministry project, please contact Lisa Warren (warrensinafrica@gmail.com).

To learn more about ministry in Swaziland, visit: www.swaziprayerbytes.blogspot.com

Quail Shoot for Swaziland

2011-01-19T16:45:00.000+02:00

Saturday, February 26, 2011
Riverside Hunting Preserve,
7277 Hillsview Road, Oakboro NC

Tickets will be pre-sold, cost is $65 per shooter. Ticket will include am or pm shoot, complimentary lunch, and t-shirt.

Morning shoot: 9:30am, with lunch to follow. If enough tickets are sold, we will have an afternoon shoot. Afternoon shoot: 12 noon Lunch, with shoot to follow. (Maximum number of shooters per shoot: 33)

Requirements: Ticket stub, valid NC hunting license, hunter orange shirt and shooting glasses. ATV's are welcome!

To order your tickets, please see members of the Euto Swazi Team or email warrensinafrica@gmail.com. All proceeds to benefit Euto Baptist Church - 2011 Swaziland Mission Team (www.eutobaptist.com)

We are also seeking business sponsors for this event.
Business Sponsorships: Suggested $50 Donation. Each business name will be printed on t-shirts given to shooters, and sponsors will also receive a shirt.

Thank you for your continued support and prayers for the people of Swaziland and this mission team that will be serving there in August, 2011.

To learn more about Swaziland, visit www.swaziprayerbytes.blogspot.com.

Chicken and Dumplings for Swaziland ...

2011-01-04T05:24:00.006+02:00

If you live in the New Salem area (North Carolina),
come join us for a great night of food, fun and fellowship WHILE supporting international missions!

CHICKEN AND DUMPLING DINNER
~ Live Music and Auction ~

Saturday, January 15, 2011
4:00 – 8:00 pm
Cost: $7.00/plate

Euto Baptist Church ~ Family Life Center
6019 Hwy 205, Marshville NC
(Across from New Salem Elementary)

Proceeds to benefit Euto's 2011 Swazi Mission Team.
For more information, call 704-385-8117 or email,
warrensinafrica@gmail.com.

Merry Christmas From Our Family to Yours ...

2010-12-20T23:50:00.000+02:00

Digital ecard personalized with Smilebox

Thanksgiving

2010-11-17T23:11:00.004+02:00

This time of year, my heart and mind travel back to Africa ... 2008. After we finished our 30 day missionary orientation, we arrived in Swaziland just in time for Thanksgiving where we were welcomed into our Swazi Mission Family and our journey in Africa began. We are so grateful for the privilege of serving the Lord in Swaziland, and to see His mighty hand at work in the heart of the Swazi people.

With Thanksgiving just around the corner, we want to say how extremely thankful we are for each of you and your prayers and support throughout these past two years.

May you and your family have a blessed Thanksgiving!

BBQ Brown Bag Fundraiser This Weekend!

2010-11-03T20:13:00.005+02:00

This Saturday, November 6th, the Swazi Mission Team from Euto Baptist Church will be hosting a BBQ Bag Lunch Fundraiser in the parking lot of Iron Horse Motorcycles, located on Hwy. 74, Monroe, NC.

Sales will begin at 10:30am, and the cost of each bag is $5.00. Inside you will find one BBQ pork sandwich (with or without slaw), chips and cake. A variety of drinks will also be available for sale for $1.00.

Proceeds will go towards ministry and travel expenses for the Swazi Team that will be serving and ministering in Swaziland, Africa in August 2011.

We'd also like to extend a SPECIAL thanks to the staff at Iron Horse for their support and use of the parking lot, and to our Euto Family who is helping make this event possible!

Thank you for continuing to remember us in your prayers, and for all your love and support!

Let the Fundraising Begin ....

2010-10-11T23:03:00.005+02:00

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Do you love a good yard sale?? Do you have a heart for Missions??? If you answered yes, why not come join us THIS Saturday, October 16th, as we kick-off our fundraising drive for Euto's Swaziland Mission Team that will be going to Africa in August 2011!

The Swazi Yard Sale will be held in the parking lot of Euto Baptist Church, 6019 Highway 205, Marshville, NC (New Salem community), and will begin at 7am. Biscuits and coffee will also be available for sale at 6:30am!!!!!

AND .... it's not too late if you still have things you would like to contribute to the yard sale! Euto Family, you can place your items in the old sanctuary choir room by Friday morning (Oct. 15th). All others, please contact Lisa Warren (warrensinafrica@gmail.com) to arrange pick-up of your donations!

We will also be taking orders for our Swaziland Mission T-Shirts during the yard sale. Cost is $12, and there will be a sample availabe for you to view.
(Thank you Austin Printing, and Brooke for all you did to make this possible!)

In closing, wee humbly ask that you keep the entire mission team in your prayers as we prepare and seek to serve the Lord in Swaziland next year and in our community through every fundraising event here. May all we do be for HIS glory!!!

Thank you for all your support and prayers!!!
Euto Swazi Mission Team

Pampered Chef and Missions!

2010-10-07T19:23:00.002+02:00

Good afternoon everyone!!! I'd like to share an exciting way for you to support missions! As some of you may already know, my family and I will be returning to Swaziland, Africa next year (August 8-18, 2011) to lead a short-term volunteer team from Euto Baptist Church. We have already begun fundraising as a team, and as an effort to help raise support for our family to go, I have just begun selling Pampered Chef.

If you, your church, WMU group, bible study group or friends are interested in HOSTING a party or doing a CATALOG party, please let me know. If you would like, I can share about ministry in Swaziland during your party, in addition to sharing Pampered Chef products, food and recipes! All of my consultant proceeds from these parties will go directly to this mission trip, and ministry in Africa. (There will still be rewards and benefits for you as the host/hostess.)

Lastly, we would deeply appreciate your prayers for our family and this mission team as we prepare and plan to serve the Lord and share the love of Christ to the Swazi people.

Have a blessed day!
lisa warren

If you are interested, I can be reached via Facebook (Lisa Claiborne Warren), by email (warrensinafrica@gmail.com), or cell (704-776-5590).

Happy Birthday Aunt Ben ....

2009-10-10T16:00:00.001+02:00

Couldn't let today go by without sending all our love and wishing you a Happy, Happy Birthday! Hope your day was as special as you are to us!!! We love you Gwen :)

Blessings overflow ...

2009-10-10T15:30:00.000+02:00

A special thank-you to the Euto Brotherhood for giving of their time, talents and love today as they came out early this Saturday morning to build a wheelchair ramp for our home. We can't thank you enough, what a blessing!!! As soon as the rain was over, Daddy was ready to come outside and try it out!!!!!!!!

Thank you again, we love you all!!!!

Warren Family Update - September

2009-09-03T13:29:00.000+02:00

Hello prayer partners, friends and family ...

Can you believe it's been ONE month since we landed back in Charlotte .... time is flying! It has been quite a busy month to say the least. We are moved back into our home in New Salem and would like to thank each of you personally for holding us close in your hearts and prayers, to everyone who gave of themselves and their time to help prepare our house for our arrival, and to each of you for all your love, support, and gifts! We just continue to be so overwhelmed by all of your love for our family. A simple "thank you" you just does not say enough what we feel ...

Where we are TODAY, and PRAYER REQUESTS ....

~ There was a delay in moving my parents due to Dad starting his next round of rehab therapy before we could arrive and settle back in. They would like this session to be completed before him moving, so we are waiting to hear back on a specific date, but it looks as if they may be moving in the next 2 weeks (hopefully). Thank you for continuing to remember them in your prayers also!

~ Bert and I are seeking and praying through employment and ministry opportunities, please continue praying for direction and discernment as we have begun "knocking" on doors to see what God has in store.

~ Jessie, Matthew and Sarah are all enrolled back in school. Jessie has began 8th grade, Matthew moved to the Middle School to begin 6th grade, and Sarah is starting out in Kindergarten!! The kids are adjusting well to being back in the States, and are enjoying school, so far (lol!). Jessie just celebrated his 14th birthday yesterday too ... how quickly they grow up!

~ We do have a special prayer request to share concerning Sarah. During her kindergarten assessment her pediatrician noticed that there was a weakness in her right eye. She was referred to a pediatric ophthalmologist, and went for her appointment this past Tuesday. She was prescribed eyeglasses, and will be doing "pirate" patch therapy for 6 hours a day for the next 6 weeks, in hopes of strengthening her right eye. There is no history of this in our family, and her doctor showed some concern as to where this problem may be originating. She has now been scheduled to have a MRI next Friday, September 11th. They have told us it will be at least 3 days before the test results are available to her doctor, and then relayed to us. She is scheduled for a follow-up visit on October 12 in Charlotte as well. Please pray for Sarah as she begins this patch therapy. When we cover her good eye everything is so blurry and she cannot see well at all, which is proving to be very frustrating for her. Please pray for God's will in this situation, and that He will be glorified through it all.

We love you all, and thank you for continuing to remember our family in your prayers as we continue to "settle" back into life here in the States. We will continue to post updates on the family blog too ... we'd love to stay in touch and continue hearing from YOU too !!!!

Please also continue to remember our Swazi Team in your prayers as well, and be sure to check out their blog for updates and prayer requests ... www.swaziprayerbytes.blogspot.com or www.swazimissions.org.

May you all have a beautiful Labor Day weekend!
Serving Him together,

~ The Warren Family ~
bert, lisa, jessie, matthew & sarah

US Mailing Address:
Bert & Lisa Warren
6612 Pleasant Hill Church Road
Marshville, NC 28103

Happy 14th Birthday Jessie !!!!

2009-09-02T08:55:00.000+02:00

It's hard to believe, but my baby is 14 today, where does time go???
Jessie, we love you so much and hope you have the best birthday ever!!

First day of Kindergarten ...

2009-08-28T13:23:00.004+02:00

Today was another one of those BIG days ... Sarah's first day of Kindergarten here in the States. She was so excited this morning, and couldn't wait to get to her school!!!

Now, if only my boys were that excited :) They are back in school too and doing well ... but wouldn't agree to their picture being taken! What happened to those days of enjoying that????? Oh, they grow up too fast!

Welcome Back ...

2009-08-07T13:34:00.001+02:00

We are safe and sound back here in Charlotte, NC ... uneventful flights and ALL our luggage arrived too!!!! Thank you for all the many, many prayers for our family during this time of transition ... we love you all!

These beautiful pink flamingos flew in especially for our homecoming ... don't you just love them?!?! BUT, unfortunately they didn't stay long,they had to move on to "flock" another home!

We will update more in the coming weeks ... please know how much we appreciate you remembering us in prayer, and for all your love and support!

Warren Family Update - August 2009

2009-08-03T07:00:00.001+02:00

These last few weeks have flown by so quickly, and now the time has come. Our bags are packed sitting in the hall waiting to be loaded, and hard goodbyes have been said. We will leave Swaziland this Wednesday to travel to Johannesburg, South Africa, and will stay overnight there with one of our dear colleagues before leaving. Our flight will depart Jo'burg on Thursday, August 6th, 6pm (our time), arriving in Charlotte, NC, on Friday, August 7th, 10 am (EST).

We can't put into words just how much we appreciate all of your love and prayers throughout this past year. Your calls and emails have meant so much to us ... thank you for pouring into our lives and encouraging us as we begin this next chapter. As you all know, goodbyes are never easy, but we are so thankful that God has granted us such sweet times with our mission family and Swazi friends before leaving.

As we come to mind, please remember these special requests:

* Travel safety to Jo'burg, and our return flights to the States (Johannesburg, SA to Washington, DC; Washington, DC to Charlotte, NC)

* Sweet goodbyes with our mission family in Johannesburg

* Our Swaziland mission family, The Myers and the Allens ... pray for strength and direction as they continue to serve the Lord throughout this beautiful country. Also, pray for the Lord to call others to join them here in sharing the Gospel, the fields ARE truly white and ready for harvest.

* Direction on employment/ministry opportunities for us as we return back to the States

* My parents as they adjust to moving into our home, and for Dad's continued improvement and rehabilitation

* Smooth transitions for Jessie, Matthew and Sarah as they return home and enroll back into their schools beginning August 25th

We look forward to staying in touch with you all, and cherish your friendship. Again, thank you for all the many, many ways you have ministered to our family ... we love you!

In Christ,
~ The Warren Family ~
bert, lisa, jessie, matthew & sarah

US Mailing Address:
Bert & Lisa Warren
6612 Pleasant Hill Church Road
Marshville, NC 28103
warrensinafrica@gmail.com

Happy 6th Birthday Sarah!!!

2009-08-01T11:26:00.002+02:00

August the 1 (as Sarah says) is finally here, the BIG DAY she has been waiting a long time for ...

We had a "birthday braii" (cookout) here at the house, played games, and enjoyed just being together. It was a great day celebrating with family and friends!!!

Thank you for all of Sarah's birthday wishes, cards, emails, goodies and gifts ... you made it such a special day, we love you!!!!

The birthday girl tree, sporting a sassy scarf and rainboots ... it's what all the birthday trees are wearing, lol!

A special gift from Daddy, home-made bamboo vase with pink roses from our yard!

The faithful birthday cooks :)

Mmmmmm .... cheez-its, thanks Grandma!

Make a wish and blow out those candles!

Sarah and Lacie, awwwwwwww!

A special gift from Jessie, her very own slingshot and walking stick

Don't be mad boys ... we have more cake really!

Goodbyes, and sweet times in Swaziland ...

2009-07-27T10:55:00.022+02:00

Goodbyes are never easy, and the last two weeks have been full of those. We are so thankful that God granted us these sweet times of fellowship with our friends and team before leaving. We may be miles and miles apart, but we will always hold them close in our hearts and prayers ...

Our mission family, Wayne & Barbara Myers; Steve, Monica, Lacie & Nathan Allen

Bert and Mandla, mechanic at SD Spares

Farewell Service at Thunzini Baptist Church

Make Vilane, our language teacher, and Sarah :)

Make Thwala, sweet Amanda and Matthew

Happy 21st Birthday Bongani !!!

Gogo Shandu

Pastor Douglas Mavuso and his wife, Simphiwe, and Vuvulane Baptist Church

Goodbyes are REALLY painful, aren't they Matthew???

Bible studies at Mafacula

Pastor Frans Masuku and Mafacula TEE Class

Pastor Sigwane, Phuzumoya Baptist Church

Pastor Bheki and Luhhwaweni TEE Class

The gift of friendship, and visits!!!!

2009-07-20T17:39:00.010+02:00

We had the privilege to welcome friends from Jo'burg, along with their families, the past two weekends and it has been a huge blessing to our family! God's timing is perfect, and we are so thankful for their love and encouragement.

Stacie and Sarah enjoying a ride in the back

Our new friends, Marie and Ernie Barker ... and Stacie too :)

Campfire at home roasting some yummy marshmallows under the stars

Taking a ride through the Mananga Game Park ... and today we found a giraffe that had returned back home to Mananga! You never know what you will see in Tshaneni!

Our "brother" Blake and Sarah ...

Birthday surprises ...

Matthew made windchimes for Lisa's birthday ... we have bamboo growing in the driveway and he put it to good use!

Birthday flowers from Jessie and Matthew

A YUMMY birthday cake compliments of our friend Ms. Hillary ...
all the way from Piet Retief!

Happy Birthday to Sarah M., Tshepi, Mandy, Nathan, Jessie, Blake, Lisa, Sarah, Matthew and Bert! (I think that covered us all, those candles went out fast!!)

Learning how to cook hobo toast from the world famous chef Blakee Kubwa Crocker, lol!! Thanks for passing on the recipe Blake!!

Our journey continues, but in a different direction ...

2009-07-16T21:20:00.008+02:00

As I sit to type this, I still can't believe all that has taken place, and what is about to happen next. We are writing today to update you on our current situation, and ask for your prayers. As most of you know, Lisa's Dad suffered a stroke this past April, and has been in rehabilitation care centers since then. Due to insurance limitations, he will be returning to his home on August 3, 2009. He has been classified as homebound and will need care providers 24/7, as well as Home Health visits to continue his rehab, and prayerfully his recovery. After much prayer, we feel that God is leading us to return to the States now to care for her father.

We are in the process of making plans to return, and should arrive back in Charlotte early August. We will return to Marshville, NC, and be moving her parents into our home there. As you remember, we have had this home on the market to sell for the past year. Now we know the answer as to why it is still ours. God's plans are perfect and we are so thankful for His faithfulness, and for your prayers in this situation. Please remember our family as we prepare to say goodbye to our wonderful team here, and the many Swazi people here we love. As a family, we would also covet your prayers as we begin another new chapter in our lives. Please pray for direction and discernment in all aspects of life as we return, from packing and saying goodbyes here, traveling, moving logistics, preparing our house to handle Dad's special needs, along with placing the children back into school and finding employment again. We have been experiencing such a range of emotions this past week, but we know that God is in control and has everything in His Hands. He was the One who brought us from North Carolina to Swaziland, and provided in such amazing ways that ONLY He could put into place, and we know that He will never leave or forsake us. We will rest in His mercy and promises.

It's hard to believe, but August marks one year of service with the International Mission Board. We are so thankful for the opportunity to have served the Lord here in Swaziland through the leadership of this organization, and the support of our Southern Baptist Churches. We can't tell you how much you have meant to us over this past year, and how thankful we are for all of your love, support, prayers and partnership in sharing the Gospel. We have been so humbled to be a small part of the Lord's work here. We will hold close in our hearts everything He has taught us, all that we have learned, experienced, and seen ... and we are deeply thankful to Him. "The harvest is plentiful," we've all read and heard these words many times, and it is so true all around this world! Please pray for the Lord of the harvest to send out workers into His fields. We ask that you please continue to remember the Swazi Team as they faithfully continue to serve the Lord, and share the life-changing message of the Gospel with those who have not heard, and others who are steeped so deep in traditional beliefs. You can visit the team website or blog for weekly/monthly prayer requests and updates, www.swaziprayerbytes.blogspot.com or www.swazimissions.org.

Thank you for joining us in this journey, and know that we would love to continue hearing from you and how God is working in and through you. We will continue to use our family blog to share how God is working in our family as well.

Again, please know how deeply thankful we are for the many different ways you have ministered to our family and the people of Swaziland, and how YOU have impacted lives for an eternity!!!!

We love you all!
bert, lisa, jessie, matthew and sarah

July: Pastor Fakudze and Vovovo Baptist Church

2009-07-06T15:13:00.009+02:00

Below you will find this month's feature church. It is our prayer that this will increase and strengthen their prayer support, AND at the same time give you "eyes" to see who they are and an avenue to pray specifically for them as a church.

We are asking each of our pastors to share THEIR story, along with their vision for their church and community, and specific prayer requests. We will continue to feature a different church each month.

Church Name: Vovovo Baptist Church
Location: Vovovo, Swaziland
Pastor’s Name: Makhosi Fakudze

Pastor’s Testimony:

Pastor Fakudze came from an unchurched family in the Phuzumoya area of Swaziland. In 1988, Phuzumoya Baptist Church was started by Pastor Sigwane, and it was here that he first heard about Christ. Soon after that he heard God's call to accept Christ as his personal Savior. Later he became the youth leader there and also worked in the National Youth Committee in the Baptist Convention of Swaziland. In 2002, Phuzumoya Baptist Church started an outreach group in the Vovovo area. Soon after that a church was started, and he became their pastor. They have been faithfully meeting in a homestead ever since.

If you would like to pray for Pastor Fakudze and Vovovo Baptist Church, here are some of their specific needs and requests.

Prayer needs of the church:
They have acquired land from the village and are in the process of building a church structure which is still in need of a floor, roof, doors, and windows. They are praying that they will be able to finish the structure soon because the attendance of the church is more than the homestead can continue to handle.

Pastor’s vision for church:
The vision that God has given Pastor Fakudze is to continue to win the lost to Christ, and to reach out to the many widows and orphans that are in his community, meeting both their physical and spiritual needs.

Please also pray for their encouragement as they trust that God will continue to meet their needs and strengthen their walk daily.

Warren Family Update - July 2009

2009-07-05T07:00:00.000+02:00

Greetings from our little corner of Swaziland! As most of you are experiencing some pretty HOT temperatures, and enjoying those beautiful summer nights grilling outside ... it feels more like we should be celebrating Christmas here! Although I must say that I am thankful for the change in temperatures, and not complaining!!!! We pray that each of you had a wonderful 4th of July celebrating the gift of our freedom.

As I sat to begin to write this update to you on all the happenings here in Swaziland, God gently tugged at my heart and had a different plan for this month's newsletter. Today I'd like to share with you what I was reading when He spoke .....

"And then he told them, 'Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone.' " Mark 16:15 (NLT)

(The following story was taken from a Proverbs 31 Ministry Devotion I received written by Tracie Miles, www.proverbs31.org)

"I recently heard about a little boy who was involved in a serious accident, and lay in a coma in the hospital with massive internal injuries. The following day, the little boy's kindergarten teacher was talking to the students about the accident, and asking for suggestions on what they could do for their injured classmate. Several children made suggestions such as taking food, writing cards and drawing him pictures. Then one little girl suggested that the class could pray for him. A few seconds passed, and then a young boy, who had been intently listening to the discussion, asked quietly, "What is prayer?" The little girl proceeded to tell him how Christians pray to Jesus. The boy looked at her inquisitively for a moment, and then said, "Who is Jesus?"

This little girl, along with a few other classmates, proceeded to witness to this young boy, telling him all about Jesus. They shared that He is God's Son and was sent to earth to die on the cross for our sins so that we could have eternal life and go to Heaven. The teacher stood there with tears in her eyes, as these precious little children, barely knowing their ABC's, shared the gospel with intense knowledge, passion and commitment, and without any hesitation or fear. They were proud of their Jesus, and wanted to share God's love and promises with this little boy, who was completely unaware of Jesus.

We can be there too, just in a different circumstance, with different people, and at a different time. I was reminded that opportunities for sharing the good news of Jesus are everywhere: around every corner, in the next cubicle, in every neighborhood, and in every classroom. We simply have to grasp the opportunities that are presented. Scripture tells us that everyone will be accountable to God (Romans 14:12), even if they have not heard of Him, which is the basis for global missions work. As Christians, it is our duty to make sure that people become aware of Jesus.

As I sat and read this story, my heart just melted. It reminded me again of how we need to be continually praying for God's "eyes" every day to see those all around us who are lost or need encouraging, the ones He is calling US to share His message of love with. I couldn't wait to share the story with Bert, and after I finished reading it to him, he shared this story with me ....

"It was past noon as Pastor Masuku and I were returning from follow up ministry work and making our way along the long gravel road back home. We came upon four teenage boys who were flagging us for a ride into the next town. (It is very common here to give rides to those who are asking if you are able, so to these young boys it was not uncommon for a perfect stranger to stop and pick them up.) After the four boys squeezed into the back seat and we were on our way, I told them that this ride was going to be different. It was going to cost them to ride. Silence fell among them all as they heard my words. I asked if they would like for me to tell them the cost of the ride, and nervously one of them answered, “Yes”. I explained that the cost of this ride would simply be that they would have to listen to the difference that Christ had made in my life. They listened as I shared my testimony. We were now entering the small town where they needed to go. As I was pulling up to the curb to let them out I asked if there was anyone who would also like to have the assurance of salvation in their life as I had in mine. Instantly one of the boys said, “Yes, I would like to know how!" So, we all got out of the truck, and stood right there on the sidewalk in town. We explained from the Bible how to repent and place your belief in Christ for eternal life in Him. Today, Mandla Tsabedze Nkulalini is our brother in Christ. The cost of his ride cost the same as our ride ... nothing, but to repent and believe, receiving the gift of salvation through the grace and mercy God the Father has for us all."

The people we encounter can be a divine appointment… whether it be here in Africa or back home in the US. It IS our responsibility to share His message of love, we are not responsible for their decision .... ultimately that is their choice. BUT how can they make this life-changing decision if they've never heard? May God shine in and through you as you continue to serve Him wherever He places you ....

Praises/Prayer Requests:

~ Praise the Lord for a wonderful time of ministry with Hunter & Brinkley Johnson (South Roanoke Association Team), and Rev. Steve Willis & Jeremy Allen (West Virginia Team), and for their hearts to serve and share the love of Christ with the people of Swaziland.
~ Continue to pray for direction in future orphan and HIV/AIDS ministry, and also for partnerships with other mission organizations. Meetings are being scheduled to meet with Samaritan's Purse, and the Red Cross. Pray for the Lord's will to be accomplished.
~ Pray for the Lord to be glorified through the new structural changes that are being implemented beginning this month by the IMB. (www.imb.org)
~ Pray for the many new believers throughout Swaziland, as they begin their walk with the Lord. Pray that they would seek Him with all their hearts and be grounded in His word daily.
~ Continue to pray for Lisa's Dad, Lloyd Claiborne, as he continues to recover from his stroke. Pray for strength and patience as he seeks to regain use of his left side.

Thank you for all your love, support and prayers and the many different ways you are ministering to our family.

~ The Warren Family ~
bert, lisa, jessie, matthew & sarah

SPECIAL NOTE: We are in the final stages of completing a Ministry DVD to be shared with our prayer partners/churches back in the States. If you are interested in receiving one, please email us your mailing address. We'd like to say a "BIG" thank you to our home church, Euto Baptist, for copying and distributing these DVD's !!!!

Take a walk through June ...

2009-07-04T10:53:00.009+02:00

What a GREAT month this was ... new friendships, ministry and family fun!

This month we celebrated Lacie's 5th birthday, and enjoyed spending the day in Mbabane. We also got to meet her Gogo Polly (Monica's Mom) who had just arrived in from Florida. What a great day of food, friends, fun and fellowship, thanks Allen Family!!!!

We welcomed a new volunteer team from West Virginia, Rev. Steve Willis and Jeremy Allen, as they served at Phuzumoya Baptist Church teaching church leadership classes. We also had the privilege of hosting Hunter and Brinkley Johnson (sisters) from the South Roanoke Baptist Association (NC). They came to spend a week with our family, and served in different areas throughout the Lubombo region. Please pray for Hunter and Brinkley as they return back to the US on July 8. They have spent a month here in Swaziland serving with the Allens in Mbabane, and also with the Myers in Nhlangano. What a blessing it was to meet and serve alongside them all ~ thank you for your friendship, and for coming to share the love of Christ!

Swazi Team in Mbabane ...
and for those of you who know how much my crew likes their picture taken, this is quite a task to get a picture, thanks Hunter :)

Matthew flying again ... that boy loves being in the air!

Rev. Steve Willis, Jeremy Allen, and the pastors/church leaders in the Lubombo Region

Prayer Time at Phuzumoya

Slight road block in Kruger :)

Say "cheese" (chez) everyone ...
Hunter & Brinkley with the orphans at Phuzumoya

Enjoying meal time at Phuzumoya.
Please pray for this church as they minister to the many orphans in their community each day.

The kids enjoying playing under the parachute ...

Collecting firewood with Pastor Sigwane

Ready, aim, fire ... Jessie's new favorite hobby.
You never know what you will see on the dirt roads!

Sarah and Matthew enjoying "riding with the top down" ...
Sarah likes to play "I SPY" ... thanks Matthew for being a great big brother :)

Our new yard swing for the kids ...
and of course the biggest kid in the family has to try it out too :)

Our first pumpkin ... mmm, the pumpkin muffins turned out good!

Happy Father's Day ....

2009-06-21T03:50:00.000+02:00

"The love and care of a father is as essential as sunlight is in our lives. It is his protection that shelters us, his care that nurtures us, his guidance that leads us and his love that fills us with joy." Anonymous

Happy Father's Day to OUR special Dads!!!

It's rare we get them all in ONE picture with Daddy!
Grandaddy NEVER likes having his picture taken, atleast we got a side shot. Thanks to Sarah for getting his attention off the camera :)
Papa enjoying a Sunday morning with his fellow usher, and grandson Gabe!
Uncle Bill (aka "Da Swamp Monster") Looks like he got the one who didn't get away!

Praying that each of you have a wonderful day, and that you know just how much we love and appreciate you all!

Field Trip to Hlane Game Park

2009-06-11T20:28:00.028+02:00

Sarah was invited to go along with her class from Thembelisha today on their field trip to Hlane Game Park here in Swaziland. She had the BEST time and enjoyed being with her teachers and friends again! She talked all afternoon about the lions, leopards, elephants, birds, and not to mention the crocodile she touched! After their drive through with the game guard, the class enjoyed a braii, complete with roasting marshmallows.

A special thank you to Auntie Donna and Sisi for remembering her, and including her on this great trip!

June: Pastor Mandla Sigwane and Phuzumoya Baptist Church

2009-06-09T15:25:00.007+02:00

Beginning this month, we will be featuring some of our churches here in Swaziland, and their pastors. Our prayer is that this will increase and strengthen their prayer support, AND at the same time give you "eyes" to see who they are and an avenue to pray specifically for them as a church.

We are asking each of our pastors to share their story, along with their vision for their church and community, and specific prayer requests. Our plan is to feature a different church each month.

Church Name: Phuzumoya Baptist Church
Location: Phuzumoya, Swaziland
Pastor’s Name: Mandla Sigwane
Pastor’s Testimony:
Pastor Sigwane grew up in Manzini as a “street kid”. This led him into what appeared would be a life of crime. After being convicted of robbery and serving his sentence in a Swazi prison he accepted Jesus as his Savior and has never been the same since. Pastor Sigwane became the pastor of Phuzumoya Baptist Church and has mentored many young men and helps them to grow in becoming passionate about God’s word and their desire to see others accept Christ as their personal Savior as well. During the past several years this passion has led to the start of five other churches.

Currently this church hosts a school for orphaned children and also provides daily food preparation for them, and the teaching of life skills. They have also formed a mission team, comprised of members from other churches in this region as well. Pastor Sigwane has a passionate desire to reach people for Christ, mentor future leaders, meet physical needs of the surrounding communities, and start other Baptist Churches so that the pure word of God is carried throughout this land.

If you would like to pray for Pastor Sigwane and Phuzumoya Baptist Church, here are some of their specific prayer requests.

Please pray for:

-The many orphans and HIV/AIDS children that they support each day.
-Additional support in the mentoring of church leadership.
-Travel expenses as this is a mission-minded church and they constantly go out in faith even when they do not have the financial means of returning to their homes, eating, lodging, and sometimes even reaching their destination.
-For their encouragement as they trust that God will continue to meet their needs and strengthen their walk.
-For the many young men that are being mentored at this time, and that they would grow spiritually strong and resilient against Satan.
-For Pastor Sigwane’s family as Satan attempts to divide them and thwart their efforts.
-For renewed strength each day as it is a constant battle just for personal survival.

Cast off the old, and be made new ....

2009-06-09T14:58:00.003+02:00

While attending services at Maphungwane, we were blessd to see this Gogo come forward. She was very weak, and feeble in her walk, and made her way through the crowd to share her testimony. She began sharing that she was a traditional witchdoctor, but has now burned all of her charms and is seeking the Lord. Please pray for this Gogo as we know Satan is not pleased, especially with this public profession to those who live in her community.

Warren Family Update - June 2009

2009-06-09T13:00:00.002+02:00

A "wintery hello" to each of you from all the Warrens here in Tshaneni! As you trade out your jeans for shorts and flip-flops, Winter is beginning to make itself known here in our little corner of Swaziland. Although our winter will be nothing like a North Carolina winter, it is a nice change in temperatures!
Change is truly in the air everywhere ... when July 1st rolls around our region as we know it, CESA ~ Central, Eastern and Southern Africa ~ will no longer exist. Beginning July, the new restructuring of the IMB will be put into place, and you will now come to know our region of the world as "Sub-Saharan Africa Affinity Group". Please join us in continuing to pray for wisdom and guidance for IMB leadership as they implement and lead us through these changes.
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Ministry Update

"Whoever speaks let him speak, as it were, the very utterances of God;
whoever serves, let him serve by the strength which God supplies;
so that in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ,
to whom belongs the glory and dominion forever and ever."
1 Peter 4:11

When our family moved to Tshaneni back in mid-January of this year we began praying for direction and guidance as to what and where God would have us focus our efforts. Our team members are each assigned to different areas of Swaziland, all of which are large, with many communities that are rural and spread apart. When Bert began to study the map of our region he found himself consistently being drawn to one particular area. In the Lubombo region, the main industry is the production of sugar cane, and the majority of the Swazi people here work in this industry. We have found that if you are not employed with this industry there is little to no sustainable support. These are the people that are mainly overlooked and forgotten. God began directing our path to His people in this forgotten area, which we now know as Mafacula. It is located at the base of a mountain just beyond the many, many sugar cane fields off of our main road. We began asking you to join us in praying for this area specifically and it's people that we call "the people beyond the sugar cane". As we started to ask and learn more about this area, Bert found only a few people that knew exactly how to get there. One morning as he was with a member of Vuvulane Baptist Church, God led them to someone that knew this area very well. They were taken in and introduced to a local pastor, Masuku. He was saved through reading the Word of God in the Bible his father left to him. As an answer to your prayers, God led Bert to this pastor and their relationship has grown over these last four months. Pastor Masuku shares the desire to reach this/his whole community with the message of Christ. So far, we have seen two revivals and the showing of the Jesus Film in this area all with amazing response. Pastor Masuku has also been able to travel with Bert to several Baptist related functions and training sessions, which has given him the opportunity to connect with other pastors in the area. Just recently, he and his church, Mountain Church, have requested to join the Baptist Convention of Swaziland, seeking to join their brothers and sisters in Christ to evangelize their country. There has been great interest to learn more about the Bible, and Bert has begun teaching weekly classes on Thursdays in this community. Through your prayers, God has also opened doors that we could not open. We have been introduced to several community groups that work directly with the oppressed peoples of HIV/AIDS here, and many have come forward to reveal their sickness and need for help. Please join us as we pray for this new opportunity and that much will be accomplished for the Kingdom of Christ, both spiritually and physically.

We cannot say enough how much your prayers, support and involvement in the ministry here mean to us, and our entire team. Throughout the past several years there has been consistent, dedicated partnerships, prayer and mission teams dedicating their efforts and resources to reach the country of Swaziland for Christ. In our short time here on the field, we have been so blessed to see the fruits of their labor and prayers with much being accomplished for the Kingdom! Some have tilled the land, some sowed the seeds, some watered, some prayed, and some harvested ... all are ESSENTIAL! Harvest time has come to Swaziland, thank you for partnering with the One who brings the Harvest, and join us in giving Him all the Glory!
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Family Update

After much prayer, another change has taken place in our lives, and it is that we have now begun homeschooling all three of the children. Before arriving in Swaziland, we felt strongly about having the kids plugged in socially, and giving them the opportunity to experience their new culture and meet friends of their own age through attending a local school. We are so thankful for the opportunity for them to have attended Thembelisha Preparatory School. The teachers and staff welcomed us with open arms, and went above and beyond to make sure the children transitioned well into their school. They have made many friends that I know we will continue to see. Fortunately, we will have the chance to see many of them when we visit church in Simunye. Now that we have "settled in" to our area of ministry, we have a better feel of our job, what it takes to host volunteer teams, and are also seeing new ministry begin to grow. We feel that this change will give us more flexibility with our schedules/ministry, allowing us to be more accommodating to our volunteer teams, AND at the same time giving the children "first hand" experience in more of the ministry while continuing their education here. It seems that our time here is beginning to quickly pass by, and we want to be good stewards of our time and of the support we so graciously receive from the IMB and our churches back home. We have such a peace about this decision, and are excited to see how the Lord is going to work through this change.

We would like to thank you for continuing to remember Lisa's parents in your prayers as her Dad recovers from a recent stroke. There has been a change in his rehab facility. He has now been moved from Bryant T. Aldridge Rehab Center to Autumn Care in Nashville, NC. We are so thankful for the staff at both locations, and their willingness to communicate with us through email. He has settled in well, and is continuing physical, speech and occupation therapy there. A praise for this week is that he was finally able to pass his swallowing test which will allow him to eat food for himself!! This will BOOST his spirits for sure :) Your prayers and love have meant so much as you have walked with us through these past months, and continue to be a blessing to us and her parents.
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Praise and Prayer Requests

Praise the Lord that Sarah accepted the Lord has HER personal Savior and followed in believer's baptism on May 24th! Pray that she will grow in the Lord each day, and that she will follow Him all her days!

Pray for direction in future orphan and HIV/AIDS ministry, and also for partnerships with other mission organizations. Pray for direction in trying to find and meet the needs of those suffering and dying from this disease that infects so many here in Swaziland. Pray for wisdom in teaching the church how to care for these patients and their families and that they would have the opportunity to share the message of the Great Physician and that many would have open hearts to receive Him as their personal Savior.

Praise the Lord for the safe arrival of Hunter and Brinkley Johnson (sisters) this week. Pray for the Lord to use each of their talents and gifts to minister to the Swazi people and for their continued strength as they minister with our team through July 8th. Also pray for safe travel as they serve in many different areas of Swaziland.

June 12th, Polly Trice (Monica Allen's mother) arrives in Swaziland to spend several weeks with the Allen's. Pray for safe travel and a wonderful time with her family.

Pray for our next volunteer team from West Virginia, arriving June 13 - 18, as they lead discipleship training at Phuzumoya Baptist. Praise the Lord for this new partnership, and pray for the Lord to bless their time here in Swaziland and for safe travel as they return back to the States next Thursday.

The National Youth Leader’s Retreat on June 26 -27. Pray for this important retreat for all youth leaders of the Swazi Baptist churches. Hunter Johnson will be the main speaker. Pray God will move in a mighty way among the hearts of our youth leaders.

Please continue to pray for Wayne Myers' brother and sister struggling with cancer. Pray that the Lord will draw Terry and JoAnn into His healing embrace. Also continue to remember Wayne and his family in the loss of his youngest brother, Larry.

Continue to pray for Lisa's Dad, Lloyd Claiborne, as he continues to recover from his stroke. Pray for strength and patience has he seeks to regain use of his left side.

Thank you for all your love, support and prayers!

A beautiful day in Swaziland ...

2009-05-26T15:35:00.013+02:00

This has been a BIG weekend for our family and for the ministry here in Swaziland! Early Sunday morning, Sarah accepted Christ as HER personal Savior. She has been asking lots of questions about this, even before we left the States, and now she is our new sister in Christ, praise the Lord!!!!

Also on this same day, we visited Maphungwane, the area in which our last volunteer team came to serve and work in alongside Pastor Sigwane. Since revival services, it has been growing by leaps and bounds, so much that the people can no longer fit into the pastor's home. We had church on Sunday outside on their grass mats, followed by the baptism of the ones who were saved during revival, and also during the following services. We witnessed 57 new believers being baptized, plus one more that stole our heart ... it was Sarah! You all know how scared Sarah is of water, and today you would have never known. She walked right up to the baptismal and waited with Uncle Wayne, our team leader. Once they presented her, she got right in and was ready for her turn! I wish you could have been there to celebrate this day with us, and to hear the beautiful sounds of these new believers sharing testimony and singing to the Lord. As we were in the baptism service, the pastor drew our attention to the sun (which was shining brightly), and there was a rainbow of light circling it. I tried my best to get pictures, but it was too bright.

God is working in the hearts of many here in Swaziland! We have been so blessed to be a witness to His mighty Hand. Thank you for continuing to pray for our family, team and the people of Swaziland!

Church Services

Waiting in line for baptism, praise the Lord for these new believers!

Sarah being baptized by Uncle Wayne

Sarah's special friend, Make Magongo, sharing a hug after their baptism

Meet some of our African animal friends ...

2009-05-26T15:30:00.001+02:00

These 3 stooges were hanging out on the main road one Sunday afternoon watching the traffic drive by! You just never know what you are going to see on the way home, or WHERE you will see it :)

Meet the African elephant, preparing to dig up some wild potatoes. We have learned that you can tell he is African by the shape of his ear. It's in the shape of the continent of Africa :)

Hippo's swimming pool ... we decided not to bother Gloria as she went for her afternoon dip! (We named her from the movie,
Madagascar 2, lol ...
this one's for you Blake!)

Rhino Road Block!

These guys are turning up everywhere ... not sure what kind of lizard this is, but we know our dogs sure don't like them!!!

Most of you remember Hobbs, the "adopted" zebra that lives at Mananga Club. Well, he now has a new sister. Her name is Fiona and she's an 8 month old baby warthog (not too small though). He's not too fond of her, and is not wanting to share their adopted Mum, Ms. Hillary! I've not been able to get her picture yet, but it's on the way!!!!!

Catch up with the kids ...

2009-05-26T08:00:00.007+02:00

It's been a while since we shared some of the kids' adventures here in Swaziland, so here are some pictures to catch you up on them ....

During our trip to Jo'burg, Lacie and Sarah enjoyed baking gingerbread cakes at a local restaurant. The restaurants in South Africa usually have a place for the kids to play, or some really neat activity especially for them, so nice!

We had the privilege to go out on a "sun-setter" cruise with the South Roanoke volunteer team in April. Thanks to our friend Hillary for the wonderful evening, and great food! We went out about 4pm, and drove around the lake seeing some wildlife and a beautiful sunset, and starry night! A great time for all!

Matthew learning how to "start" a fire a new way ... mmmm, a great way to grill!

Two little princesses enjoyed their tea party and playing dress up together ... Annya is one of Sarah's best friends from school

Austin, Annya's brother, came to hang out too ... he is in Matthew's class. They enjoyed playing cricket, and video games while the girls had their tea party.

Sarah loves visiting the Swazi market, and always seem to be the one getting all the attention from the vendors ... they love to find outfits and jewelry for her (almost as much as she loves to wear it!)

You are NEVER too big (or too old) to enjoy these :)

Hanging out at the local club playground with Blake, Sarah and Mom & Dad (plus we got to see Hobbs the zebra, and our favorite dog, Russ)

Happy Birthday Papa!

2009-05-23T06:00:00.000+02:00

Happy Birthday to you, Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday Dear Papa, Happy Birthday to you!

Praying that you have a great birthday ~
We love you!!!

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-10T04:00:00.002+02:00

Happy Mother's Day Grandma, Mimi and Aunt Ben ...
and to each and every one of my dear sisters back home!

We're sending all of our love to you today,and praying that you will have the most beautiful day!

We love you!

Warren Family Update

2009-05-08T13:27:00.010+02:00

“The one who plants and the one who waters work as a team with the same purpose … we work together as partners who belong to God.” 1 Corinthians 3:8-9

Greetings from Tshaneni, and Happy Mother's Day!

I'm sure that each of you are excited to have warmer weather in your forecast, and are getting geared up for Summer and all the fun that brings! We are excited too as we have been feeling the coolness of Fall, and looking forward to Winter :) Fall is my absolute most favorite season and I didn't think I would experience much of that here. God has been so gracious to let me see falling leaves and feel the cool breezes here in the beautiful mountains of Swaziland. He is truly concerned about the "little" things in life that bring us pleasure.

Several months ago, Pastor Sigwane from Phuzomoya Baptist Church met with our Strategy Leader, Wayne Myers, and shared his passion for reaching the people of Maphungwane. At the end of March, Bert was able to meet with Pastor Sigwane and accompany him to this village and meet the induna to ask for permission to have revival services. The induna had questions about this, and wanted to know what the intentions of these services would be. The joy on his face was clear as Pastor Sigwane shared that we would like to eventually see a church come to this village. The induna, who is of the traditional Zionist religion, then said ... "We have been praying for a church to come here for a long time."

Prayers were answered, and on April 22nd, we welcomed Chris, Janice, and Ron from the South Roanoke Baptist Association in North Carolina. COUNTLESS prayer partners, THREE volunteers, TWO tents, a pastor's vision and ONE Mighty God! The team spent several days in Maphungwane serving alongside Pastor Sigwane and his home church as they held tent revivals, bible studies, children's ministry, homestead visitations and the showing of the Jesus film. Pastor Sigwane had predicted that there would be large crowds each day due to the local schools being closed for 1st term break. Each night there were more people than the night before. So many that TWO revival tents erected together could NOT hold them. Each night the walls of the tents would be taken down in order that those who could not get insde would be able to see and hear. On one particular night over 400 people were present ... praise the Lord!

We were all overwhelmed to see how the Lord was working in this village, and how prayers were being answered ... there were many professions of faith made each night, so many that we found ourselves to be ill prepared to even record all the names. Only Jesus knows for sure the number of souls that He now calls His own. As the week ended, the people were saddened to realize that the revival was ending and the tents were going to come down. Due to this, the revivals continued for FIVE more days after the team departed back to the States. During the last day of services, there were 81 people who signed their names stating that they wanted to take steps towards becoming a Baptist church ... WOW!

During this same morning service, many of the new believers came forward and gave their testimonies of how the Lord was now working in their lives. We were all very moved as we sat and listened to each one ...

"Now that I have accepted the Lord, I can understand now."

"I have never heard preaching like this before, now I know the TRUTH."

"One day as I was working to build my house, these people came and shared the truth with me, and now I have been accepted by God."

"I did not think I was worthy of coming to services, because I did not have proper cloths, but I was accepted just as I am, and now I know God."

Please continue to pray for these new believers, that they will grow each day in the Lord and become strong in their faith. Pray that THEY will lead many more to Christ, and that this community will see and understand the Mighty hand of God. We praise God for all the many prayers that were lifted long before services began, and for Chris, Ron and Janice giving of themselves to be His hands and feet here in Swaziland!

On a personal note, we thank you for continuing to remember our family here, and my parents in the States as Dad begins the road to recovery from his recent stroke.

"Those who live in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. This I declare about the Lord: He alone is my refuge, my place of safety; he is my God, and I trust Him." Psalm 91:1-2

We can feel your prayers so strongly, and God is continuing to grant us peace each and every day as we trust in His plan.

During this past week, we lost a wonderful Christian lady, Granny Harrell (Mrs. Ella Harrell). She has been a special part of Bert's family for many, many years, and took care of him growing up. We are also asking that you remember her family in your prayers, especially on this Sunday, Mother's Day.

May you and your family have a beautiful Mother's Day, we love you!

Praise Report on Dad

2009-05-07T10:03:00.003+02:00

I have GREAT news to share today! Dad passed his tests at Rex Hospital, and has now been transferred to the Bryant T. Aldridge Rehab Center in Rocky Mount, NC, Room 818. Praise the Lord!! It has been just a little over a week since his surgery and stroke. He had an uneventful trip to the center, and was getting settled in yesterday. He is scheduled to begin therapy on Thursday. Please continue to pray for patience and strength for Dad as he begins this road to recovery, and also for Mom, and his doctors and nurses.

Another answer to prayer is that the staff as graciously agreed to communicate with me through email so that I will be able to receive updates on his progress. Thank you Karen, Joni, and the entire staff that will be guiding and encouraging Dad in his recovery!

Again, I thank you for all your continued prayers and the many different ways you are ministering to our family here in Africa, and my parents back in the States. What a blessing you have been, and continue to be ... it means more than I will ever be able to put into words! We love you all!!!

Almost forgot ... many of you have asked for my parents' home address, and it is:
Lloyd and Catherine Claiborne
PO Box 283
Gaston, NC 27832

Prayer Request & Update on Dad's Surgery

2009-05-05T14:55:00.000+02:00

Sorry that it has taken me so long to send out another update ... it has been a slow process getting information, and waiting on test results. I do want to let you know just how much I appreciate all your prayers, love and encouraging emails for me, Bert and the kids. And also for the many different ways you are ministering to my parents back in the States. Thank you for giving of your time to travel with Mom to the hospital each day, the many hospital visits, cards, phone calls, and continuous prayers. What a gift it is to have such wonderful family and friends who are always there no matter the hour or distance! I love you all so much!

Throughout this past week, Dad has undergone several different tests, including an MRi this weekend. The MRI showed no swelling, but did show a definite stroke. We are waiting to hear as to what extent the damage caused by the stroke is. He has been experiencing no movement in his left arm/leg, slurred speech and is still not able to swallow well. They will be placing a feeding tube in today in order to keep his strength up. His coloring and speech seem to be much better today, and he was even able to move his leg a little, praise the Lord! He will remain at Rex Hospital for now until his doctor feels he is strong enough to be transferred to Rocky Mount to begin rehabilitation therapy, which will be much closer for my Mom. They say this will be a very long process, but are optimistic.

It has been hard being so far away, and not being able to "see" for myself what is going on, and then waiting to hear results. Please know that I can feel your prayers so strongly, and that God is granting me peace each and every day. I have been praying about traveling back, and continue to ask the Lord what is best ... the doctors and nurses feel that it would not be in Dad's best interest right now, and that I should wait a little further down the road. Each time they mention the idea of me coming back, he gets too emotional, which they say is normal for stroke patients. Please pray for guidance in making the right decision, the one that is best for him, not me.

Again, thank you from the bottom of my heart ... I will update again as soon as I know more.

Thank you for all your love, support and prayers!

Three volunteers, two tents, a pastor's vision and One Mighty God!

2009-05-05T14:54:00.000+02:00

During the last week of April, we welcomed another volunteer team from the South Roanoke Baptist Association in North Carolina. What a blessing it was to meet and serve the Lord beside Chris, Ron and Janice.

Amazing things happened during their time here, what a testimony to all the many prayers that were lifted! During one of the evening services, there was over 400 people trying to fit into two tents to see the JESUS Film ... on another night, despite one of the most horrific storms we had seen, people were still walking to the tents thirsty for the Word! All praise and glory to the Lord!!!! Please continue to pray for Pastor Sigwane and the people of Maphungweni. We know the Lord has great things in store for this community!

A special thank you to the South Roanoke Association, the team and their families, for all the many ways they ministered to the people of Swaziland, and to our family and the entire Swazi mission team!

(And for those of you who know Chris, stay tuned to Facebook for some awesome video from this trip!)

Saying goodbye again ...

2009-05-05T14:53:00.000+02:00

Last week we had to say goodbye to another dear young lady and teammate, Kimber Ringler. We praise the Lord for her service here in Swaziland, and for the many lives she touched!

Sarah was sad that Kimber had to leave Swaziland, so we have come up with a way to "keep" her here. Say "hello" to our new Barbie doll, Kimber.

We love you Kimber, and wish you all the best as you begin a new chapter in your life! We know that the Lord has great things planned for you!!!

Annual Mission Meeting in Johannesburg - April 2009

2009-05-04T15:20:00.000+02:00

We had the privilige to travel to Jo’burg during April where we met with other missionary families in the Southestern Cluster of Africa. During our time there, the adults were in worship and training, and our children were experiencing the Boomerang Express VBS. They were learning about the Lord and being loved on by the wonderful volunteer teams from Georgia. What a blessing they were to us all! It was great to worship together as a group, and in our own language. We were blessed to hear God speaking to us through the pastors, worship leaders, youth ministers and children’s workers and are so grateful for each one of them!

Easter in Swaziland

2009-04-06T12:47:00.000+02:00

Kimber saying goodbye to the Baptist churches

Singing and dancing with the girls

Children's ministry and games

Simphewe and friends from Vuvulane Church

Say "cheese" ladies!!!

Visiting with good friends :)

Praise and Worship

Sunday Morning Worship

Packed up and heading out to Easter Services

Happy Easter from our family to yours ...

2009-04-04T14:48:00.001+02:00

This past week Sarah and her classmates at school have been learning about Jesus, the miracles that He performed while here on Earth, and the events that led to His arrest, and death on the cross. The children made their own crown of thorns to remind them what Jesus endured at Easter, and then they celebrated as the learned He arose from the grave three days later. What could be better than to hear the Easter Story explained by your child ... priceless. Please join us in praying that many people here in Swaziland, and all over the world, will hear His story and find their OWN personal Savior this Easter!

Wishing each of you a beautiful Easter ...
(Sarah is blowing you kisses in the picture, be sure to catch one!)

Welcome to the family Baby Violet ...

2009-04-04T14:42:00.000+02:00

Congratulations to my cousin Chad, and his wife Lorie, and the entire Jordan Family, on the birth of their new daughter, Violet Jane Jordan, weighing in at 8 lbs. 13.5 ounces. Baby Violet is also blessed to have an older brother and sister who will take good care of her!

Warren's Update - April 2009

2009-04-04T14:33:00.000+02:00

Greetings from warm and sunny Tshaneni!

It's hard to believe April is already here, and that Easter is just around the corner ... seems like yesterday we were celebrating Christmas! It's been almost 3 months since moving to our area of ministry, and God continues to keep us in awe. He has opened so many doors here in such a short time. We are now "settled in" you could say, and feel at home here, but at the same time still experiencing many "firsts" .... I'm sure we will continue to have those as long as we are here!

This past month found us taking our first trip to the US Embassy in our capital city, playing "hide and seek" with a giraffe on the way home one afternoon, Bert being invited to become part of a local businessmen's weekly bible study in Simunye, and in preparing for our next volunteer team, visiting a new area in the Lubombo region, Siteki, and meeting a wonderful man of God, Pastor Sigwane. There will be many more "firsts" to follow in April too .... we will have the opportunity to meet with Ms. Kelly Woody, Swaziland's True Love Waits International consultant (April 6-8), attend the Swazi Baptist National Easter Services (April 9-12), travel to Johannesburg for our first Southern Sectional Meeting (April 15-20), and last but not least, welcome and serve alongside new friends from the South Roanoke Baptist Association's volunteer team from North Carolina (April 22-30). We will also have to say goodbye to one of our friends and fellow teammate, Kimber Ringler, as she finishes her term here in Swaziland and returns to the States on April 30.

Looking ahead into future HIV/AIDS Ministry The statistics say that 40% of the one million people living in Swaziland are infected with HIV/AIDS. This means that 4 out off every 10 people that we meet are infected with this d
evastating virus. Statistics also report that the average life expectancy now is 30 to 32 yrs of age, this is leaving a huge gap in the population. These are school teachers, policemen, community leaders, doctors, nurses, farmers and the like. There are many, many children left behind without a mother or a father, or both, with no choice but to try and survive without any or little help. Reaching the ones here that are infected is proving to be difficult as it is a shameful thing to reveal that one is infected. The Lord is burdening us with the fact that they are right here in our backyard, and that they are dying every day without the knowledge of His saving grace and mercy. Before arriving in Swaziland, neither of us felt this call or even equipped to minister to AIDS patients and their families. Funny how God changes and re-directs our plans, and uses us where we are the weakest. He is leading us to research ways that we can reach into this culture in a way that brings spiritual hope through Christ and physical relief from their sufferings. We have learned that in each community/village there are older ladies (makes) and grandmothers (gogos) that know these that are sick and are not physically able to get to the local clinic for help. We have learned that these ladies are already serving their neighbors and caring for the sick. Please join us in praying for avenues to be able to connect the local church with these community servants, and that together we can minister to the physical and spiritual needs of these communities through this grass roots level. Please pray for the millions of people affected by this deadly disease, and that God would direct our steps as to how He would use us here so that the Hope of Jesus Christ can be revealed and shared with those who are dying without any hope.
For more information on HIV/AIDS, and other epidemics around the world, and their relief efforts, please visit the Baptist Global Response website, www.gobgr.org, or www.baptistglobalresponse.com.

"God wrote His name on you when you gave your life to Christ. He invested Himself in you. That's why YOU can make a difference. God wants to use you, and He has a place for you—a part for you to play, a seed for you to sow, a call for you to answer." Greg Laurie

Each time I think about that, it is so humbling to me ... to know that God WANTS to use such a regular, ordinary person as myself. He wants to use YOU and ME ... isn't it great to know that He has the perfect plan for each of us, no matter where we may be in this world!

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March 30th, what a special day ...

2009-03-30T18:35:00.000+02:00

Happy 14th Birthday Hunter!

It's been a long time since the daisy dance, but I know you still have the moves! We hope that you have the best birthday ever, know that we love you so much!

Happy 14th Birthday Hunter!!!!!!!!

Great Day in Hazyview

2009-03-28T21:22:00.000+02:00

This weekend we traveled to White River, South Africa to spend some good times with our friend, and teammate, Kimber, before she returns back to the States in April. What a great weekend we had ... memories that will last forever!

This included some "flying" lessons for Bert, Matthew and Kimber ~ watch out, next time they're going superman style! Matthew was even singing "I believe I can fly" as he came by! Hoping to have some video on Facebook soon!

Parent Day at Sarah's School

2009-03-28T18:50:00.000+02:00

We had the privilege to attend Parent Day at Thembelisha Pre-Prep and "see" the kids in action. What a fun morning it was!!! I enjoyed playing games with Sarah and her friend Ashley.

Thank you Auntie Donna and Sisi!!!

I Spy .....

2009-03-28T18:47:00.000+02:00

I spy with my little eye an answer to prayer ... can you "see" it????

Answer to be posted soon :)

Warren Family Update - March 2009

2009-03-11T10:07:00.000+02:00

“Again, I observed all the oppression that takes place under the sun. I saw the tears of the oppressed, with no one to comfort them …”
Ecclesiastes 4:1

Sawubona from Tshaneni, Swaziland!

We are all doing well, and are continuing to adjust to life in Africa. It is so true, you live and learn something new EACH day here! The kids have just celebrated their "mid-term" at school, wow ... where does time go!?!? They all received good mid-term reports, and are doing well! Jessie has also made the school cricket team, and is enjoying this new sport ... I am still trying to understand the game myself!

During the month of February, we welcomed our first volunteer team here in this area. What a privilege it was to serve alongside the South Roanoke Team from North Carolina ~ thank you to each of you for allowing the Lord to work through you here in Swaziland and for the love you have for these people. We saw God work in such big ways during our time together, opening doors for future ministry, and lives given to Him! All praise and glory to God!!!!

Today, we'd like to share some stories with you from that week, and give you a glimpse of how God is answering YOUR prayers ....

Before the team arrived, we felt the Lord drawing us to an area "beyond the sugar cane", a village known as Mafucula. The doors were opened wide to minister here with the team. Permission was given to speak at their school's opening assemblies, and also to hold revival services in one of the school buildings in the evenings. Upon arrival there, we met a local pastor in the community. The pastor shared that he had been praying about how to minister to this community, and was having an all-night prayer service that week. He shared that this team was an answer to his prayers. During the following days, the team was able to visit several homesteads in this area, and there were several professions of faith. Many came to the revival services as a result of these visits also. The home of a Zionist woman, the predominant religion here, was visited and she allowed the Gospel message to be shared. She was given a Bible, and could read it for herself in English. Everyone listened and watched as she read God's word, and the Holy Spirit came upon her. The entire countenance of her face changed as she shared, "Now I am saved, NOW I understand." Another testimony comes from an older man in the Vuvulane community, where revival services were also being held this same week. He shared that he wanted to "see" what all this was about, so he came to revival one night. The Lord touched his heart and he came forward to give his life to Christ. He shared testimony, and a story from when he was a young man. His story told of him being on a hunting trip one day and crossing paths with a lion that had a thorn in it's paw. He shared how the lion had laid down and allowed them to remove his thorn. The lion then went away, but later brought back a deer in appreciation of the kindness. He shared that he too was like this lion, that God had removed his thorn and now he was ready to serve the Lord in appreciation for all that He had done for him. By the end of the week, there were a total of 98 professions of faith. Praise God!

These are just some of the amazing things that we saw the Lord do in this ONE week here in our area of Swaziland. Please pray for these new believers, that they would seek the Lord's face every day, and stand strong in Him against the traditional beliefs and customs here, especially among family members who do not believe. Also continue to pray for the many, many more who are still without Him in a world that has become so complacent at the constant sight of death.

Thank you for continuing to hold the rope of prayer and battling the front lines, interceding on behalf of the Swazi people, and our entire team.

Praises, Blessings, and Thanks:
~ For the many dedicated prayer warriors who are committed to pray for our family, the Swazi team and the people of Swaziland
~ For the many cards, care packages, emails and encouragement for our family, and for Matthew as he celebrated his 11th birthday
~ For the children's quick adjustment to school here, and for good progress reports
~ For volunteers that allow the Lord to use them in His ministry here, and for the MANY lives that were given to Christ!
~ For restored good health, all the strange " virus bugs" have subsided!

Prayer Requests:
~ For God to open doors for ministry in the Siteki area, and to prepare the hearts of the Swazi people and the volunteer team coming to minister here April 22-30.
~ For Lisa's dad, Lloyd Claiborne, as he undergoes surgery on March 17th to unblock a carotid artery in his neck
~ For Jessie to have a safe trip, and enjoy time with his classmates as they take their first field trip to Durban, South Africa (March 16 -20)
~ For the Lord's direction for follow-up ministry in the Mafucula area
~ For Sarah's teacher, Sisi, has she mourns the loss of her Gogo (grandmother)
~ For the Swazi people who are steeped so deep in bondage to their traditional beliefs
~For God's will in the sale of our home in the States

Africa and it's beauty ...

2009-02-28T16:58:00.000+02:00

Thought you may enjoy "seeing" some of the many animals we have met here in Africa!

Uniforms ...

2009-02-28T09:06:00.000+02:00

Well, this is the closest I have gotten to getting a picture of the boys in their school uniforms. They have been avoiding me and the camera very well.

They are "adjusting" to life in knee socks I must say!!!! We are so proud of them for all the many transitions they have been through ... and that they can still find humor in change! They are learning many new things at school, including classes in SiSwati and French, not to mention Agriculture and Home Ec! They are also learning how to play cricket, I'm still learning how that works!

What it's all about ...

2009-02-27T22:17:00.000+02:00

We welcomed our first volunteer team this past week since our arrival in Tshaneni. What a great week of ministry it was! We had the privilige to serve alongside the South Roanoke Volunteer Team from NC, and to see God's hand at work in such a BIG way. Prayers have been answered, and MANY gave their life to Christ. YOUR prayers are such a BIG part of this work, and these lives for Christ are the results.

Thank you for continuing to intercede and battle the front lines for the precious people of Swaziland!

Sarah's first day of school ...

2009-02-17T19:52:00.000+02:00

Sarah was so excited to pack her bookbag and begin school. Here she is ready to go! She was able to meet her teacher back in November, and is so excited about seeing her again. And, she even is begging to ride the bus, telling me "Mom you don't need to pick me up!" Her bus ride is about 45 minutes, and she loves it. You should see her in the mornings when she gets on ... she goes straight to her seat, with her new friend, and they begin talking, talking, talking before the bus can ever take off! Thank you to Auntie Hannah, one of the teachers who ride with the children, and Uncle Melly, her busdriver, for taking good care of our little girl!!!!

Drinking Pepsi proves to be a BIG help here in Swaziland!

2009-02-17T19:47:00.000+02:00

Okay, for all of you that know how much I enjoy an ice-cold Pepsi, this one's for you!

We just received another mission vehicle, and discovered it had a little problem. Now, I'm not the mechanic in the family, so I left Bert out in the yard working on the truck while I cooked dinner. When I went back out, this is what I saw! See if I hadn't been drinking again, we wouldn't have had the means to "fix" this problem!!!!!

Oops, forgot to add the picture ...

2009-02-17T19:37:00.000+02:00

Here is the birthday boy ... blowing out ONE candle at a time! Enjoying every minute of it too :)

Matthew's 11th Birthday

2009-02-17T09:09:00.000+02:00

February 15th ... ahh, the day Matthew has been looking forward to for a month. I'm not sure why this one was so anticipated! We enjoyed this birthday by relaxing at home, and with a meal chosen by Matthew. We had roast, potatoes, and ugali (pop), along with a Mountain Dew Cake. Matthew really enjoyed eating the local foods in Zambia, and had been longing for some ugali and beans!! But, we didn't know it took that LONG to cook beans! We're working on that this week :)

Thank you for your cards, calls, and emails on this special day!

We've switched blogs ...

2009-02-11T09:04:00.000+02:00

Sorry for all the changes since January, thank you for bearing with us through them. We have made ONE more change, and that is our blog. We have had some problems with users accessing our original blogsite, and we are now switching over to Blogger. This blog will not require a password, and you may share it with your friends, family and churches. (www.warrensinswaziland.blogspot.com)

We'll be up and running soon, and look forward to hearing from you!