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Greetings!
February has been a full month as we celebrated our wedding anniversary (2/7), Valentine's Day, and Bryson's birthday (2/15)! This has also been a time of making key connections as God has divinely crossed our paths with like-minded people and organizations. Seeds have been sown and fruit is starting to come forth from these relationships.
Recently, several local churches have expressed interest in the work God has called us to in Italy. In fact, one of those churches is sending their youth group to Naples, Italy this summer for a mission trip. We are excited about the opportunity to share with their mission team what God has taught us in preparation for our calling so they can make a greater impact during their time there.
We know that the divine connections that have occurred over the last month are a direct result of your consistent prayers for our family and ministry. Thank you for your faithful support in this area!
Until All of Italy Hears,
Stephen and Brandy
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FAQ of the Month
Q: WHEN ARE YOU LEAVING?
A: This is probably the most common question we get asked! Because it's been a while since we made the big announcement about our call, a lot of people are surprised we're still here. What many people may not realize is that we're responsible for raising 100% of the funds needed to live and minister in Italy full-time, on a long-term basis. This amount is not just one big lump sum, but instead is a monthly amount set by TEAM, that includes funds for church planting and evangelistic activities (sports ministry, teaching English classes, technology and music training, etc), as well as funds for our family's living expenses.
To accomplish this, the Lord is building an incredible team of people, small groups, and churches who have a passion for the work God has called us to in Italy and have committed to monthly financial support. Their gifts range from $10 to $500 per month and through their faithful commitments, the Lord has already provided 53% of the total monthly amount needed to sustain our church-planting efforts in Italy! Once we reach 70%, we will be allowed to start the visa process! (More on that in a future newsletter.)
Will you please continue to pray with us about the remainder of our monthly support? Only 17% more is needed and then we can take the next big step towards departure! If you haven't already joined our team, would you prayerfully consider partnering with us? If you're ready to get started, just go to www.GiveUsTheBoot.org to let us know.
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Kids' Korner
Bryson and Laynie have been having a blast the last couple of months participating in basketball and cheerleading with our church athletics ministry! It has been a great way for them to meet new friends and also has allowed us to connect with new people who are interested in the mission work we will be doing in Italy. Here are a few pics of them in action!
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Praise Reports
The Lord has added 2 more partners to our team since our last newsletter!
We received $710.00 in special gifts this month! |
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Quick Prayer Points
On March 10, Il Faro, the church in Mestre, Italy (outside Venice) will be holding a worship conference. The theme of the conference is about being true worshippers and becoming worshipping churches. Please pray for the church leadership and guest speakers as they prepare and that the Holy Spirit would make it an unforgettable day of learning and worship.
Please join us in prayer for our dear friends and future co-workers, the Johnsons, who are making final preparations before their departure to Italy next month. Pray that God will bring in the last of their support and that the Lord will bring peace in the midst of all the packing and farewells.
Will you please continue to pray with us about the remainder of our monthly support? Only 17% more is needed and then we can take the next big step towards departure - visas! |
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Status Update
Percentages of Funds Raised To Date:
Monthly Budget: 53%
Outgoing Expenses: 44% |
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Fun Facts
Vespas
Due to the high prices of gas and the limited parking spaces, Italians love their motor scooters! The streets of Italy are filled with them. The Vespa motor scooter was designed in Italy by two brothers, Enrico and Armando Piaggio who wanted to create an economical means of transportation. The word vespa actually means "hornet" or "wasp", which is a great description of the buzzing little scooters. |
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Stephen and Brandy Verner
TEAM Missionaries to Italy
PO Box 466154
Lawrenceville, GA 30042
Stephen: 706-201-5570
Brandy: 770-837-2846
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