SOWER Ministry Newsletter

June 2012

Servants on Wheels Ever Ready

Greetings!

The longest day of the year is just around the corner, and I'm sure you're keeping your days full of the things of Summer! Hopefully you've found time to splash with the grandkids, reconnect with friends and family, and spend some time kickin' back and relaxin'!  Whether you're busy working at your home commitments, or enjoying the energy of one of our Summer SOWER projects, I hope you've had a chance to read through the June Sowergram.  It's hard to believe, but it's already time to start sign-ups for the winter months, so get your lottery requests in by July 12th. And I hope you've read through the resumes of the 9 folks nominated to serve on the Board of Trustees. Ballots need to be postmarked by July 1st, so don't delay! I encourage everyone to take the time to pray about these nominees and vote. The Board appreciates all who have willingly offered to serve, and rests in the knowledge that the LORD already knows what next year's Board of Trustees will look like.  May HE get all the praise and glory!

 

Resting in His Grace, 

Stephanie Conrad, #2509

for the Board of Trustees

SOWER Ministry

stephanie@rvthereyet.org

A Bend in the Road 
A Bend in the Road

If you've been RVing for any amount of time, no doubt you've suddenly come upon a road under construction with Jersey Barriers that quickly narrow down to seemingly only a few inches wider than your rig. Maybe you've encountered directions or an entrance to a project that was barely navigable because of a "bend in the road"

Life is like that. We're going along fine, then suddenly we encounter a difficult situation which we hadn't expected and certainly hadn't planned for. It could be a financial catastrophe, a wayward child, a serious illness, or even a death of a loved one. 
My wife Dolly and I had been working with SOWERS for four years, thoroughly enjoying the adventure of travel, making new friends, and freely giving of our time and talents to serve the Lord by serving others. Our "bend in the road" came while working a project in Florida in February '09. While walking together on a sidewalk, I heard a distinct "slapping" of her left foot on the concrete. There, a thousand miles from home and family, our lifestyle was about to change drastically. On the advice of our Chiropractor son, we sought immediate medical attention. And immediately our SOWER family began to pray, asking for wisdom, peace and quick scheduling with local physicians. It was amazing how God orchestrated everything from rapid doctor appointments to juggling our preplanned SOWER schedule for future projects, so that we could remain at Camp Horizon to continue testing and evaluation.  
Early diagnosis suggested nerve damage with the expectation it would regenerate itself within a few months, and eight months later, we were back working with SOWERS and had signed up for five months of projects in GA and FL.  
We were working at Africa Inland Mission (AIM) during December when Dolly began to have symptoms of getting weaker and tiring rapidly. While home for Christmas, it became obvious that Dolly's condition was worsening. Although unable to return to work after the holidays, we were grateful for the two months we were able to reconnect with SOWERS because out of them came some of our greatest prayer warriors and intercessors for what would become our "new normal".  
After 13 months of testing, in March 2010 Dolly was finally diagnosed with ALS (Lou Gehrig's Disease) and given 2 to 5 years to live. Two months later, I was diagnosed with Esophageal cancer. Another "bend in the road".  
We immediately requested prayer support through our SOWERS prayer chain, AIM, our church, and others. In short order, we were being prayed for literally around the world. God gave us great peace and grace as a result of the fervent prayers offered up for us.  
Good news....God graciously healed me so I could have the joy of being Dolly's caregiver for the remainder of her illness.  
 
Our prayer request from that point was twofold: First, to see God's hand at work in our lives and never miss the opportunity to give Him glory. Second, that we would learn and grow from whatever He wanted to teach us through the ordeal.  
We were often beneficiaries of Ephesians 3:20, "Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than we could ask or think". There was the power wheelchair worth thousands that we bought on eBay for $20.50, the hospital bed worth $5000 that was given to us free, and our church choir coming on three separate occasions to sing for us and gifting us with hundreds of dollars of supplies. We were blessed with the granting of a wish for a family reunion provided by the Dream Foundation and received caring support from Hospice. Plus there were hundreds of cards, emails, letters, calls, visits, and meals. Truly, immeasurably more than we could ask or think.  
Humanly, we would have preferred to avoid these bends in the road. However, God daily blessed us with reminders of His faithfulness, His undying love and answers to prayer. Dolly received her ultimate healing on February 1, 2012, as she was ushered by angels into the presence of the Lord. Although the dreaded disease eventually stripped from her the ability to eat, drink, walk, talk, or breathe unassisted, she demonstrated grace and steadfast faith as she walked through the valley of the shadow of death. She is now at peace forever.  
To our SOWER family who has traveled this road with us, Dolly and I thank you. We could almost feel your tender embrace as you lifted us to our Father. Our prayers have been answered. To God be the glory! 
Bill Eshbaugh, #2730 
We don't like to say good-bye to those whom we love. 
It is right for us to weep, but there is no need for us to despair. 
They had pain here. They have no pain there. 
They struggled here. They have no struggles there. 
You and I might wonder why God took them home. 
But they don't. 
They are, at this very moment, at peace in the presence of God. 
Max Lucado 

 

Upcoming Reunion Information
Whether you're a Seasoned Sower or New to the Family, there's nothing like a Sower Reunion to connect with friends old and new and get recharged about the ministry.  Check out these opportunities - and mark you calendars! 
MIDWEST MICHIGAN 2012 REUNION 
MICHINDOH # MI-139 
Monday,  Sept. 17  thru  Thursday,  Sept. 20, 2012 

    

Here are just a few of the exciting aspects in the works for this year's Midwest Reunion -

MEN'S MAINTENANCE WORK SHOP Last year when we had Scott Haan speak and time just ran out without answering many of our questions? This year we have asked Scott to stay with us for two hours. You can be assured that your questions will be answered.
TALENT TIME This year we are going to allow more time for singing and testimonials.We all enjoy hearing how God is working our lives. Soooo, bring along your best Testimony, How God Worked or is Working in Your Life, or How you Became a SOWER...Remember what we do is all for the Glory of God.
MAIN SPEAKER We are privileged to have with us this year "Cindy Prince" author of "Miracles from Messes" and daughter-in-law of our own Kathy Overbeek. Be prepared for her heartfelt story.
AUCTION  Bring your items for the annual Auction benefiting the SOWER Ministry.  
ENTERTAINMENT This year we are planning a real treat...However, I will hold back on giving out too many details until we can confirm that this group will be available to perform.
BREAKFAST or SNACKS? This year we are going to provide coffee and pastry at our coffee and fellowship times. Breakfast will be on your own.
BOOK SWAP Bring your pre-read books in when you register and swap for others.
COST Good News!! The cost remains the same as last year....Bring your own rig, the cost will be $85.00 per couple. Includes five meals. (No charge for the camping site). Stay in a cabin or motel, the additional cost will be $25.00 total cost for three nights. 

e-mail reservations to:  Jack LaRocque #2993  stratai@sbcglobal.net  
VOLUNTEER AT MICHINDOH For some of you who come from far away places, you might think about volunteering for the September project at MICHINDOH.  Let Jack know that you will be working and that you intend on attending the reunion.   
 

Northwest Reunion
Stanwood, Washington

    

Start planning now for the NORTHWEST REUNION which will be held on Saturday, August 11, 2012 beginning at 8:30 AM, at Warm Beach Camp (WA-367) at Stanwood, WA.  As in the past, Warm Beach Camp will provide us with complimentary lunch and dinner in appreciation for our work at the camp.  There will be a $6.00 per person charge to be paid at the Reunion for miscellaneous expenses.  Please contact us, Roger and Gail Trucker at:  randgtrucker@yahoo.com or call (360) 770-0547 (cell) or land line (360) 416-0327.  It is important to let us know ASAP as Warm Beach Camp needs to know for meal preparations.  We plan to have a wonderful day with fellowship of past, present and future SOWER friends as well as entertainment and our traditional SOWER Auction! 

 

  Central Minnesota Reunion

Sept 18 -- 20, 2012 

at Lake Beauty Bible Camp located between Long Prairie and Little Falls, MN.

Accommodations include Full hook-up RV sites ($20 per

night) to Cabins (prices vary).  Enjoy the fall colors on the shores of Lake Beauty. 

 Questions?  

Contact Larry/Dorothy Larson 651-636-8049  ldlarson@juno.com 

or Corny/Judy Groth 612-834-1259 judycornygroth@gmail.com

Letter of Appreciation
Dear SOWERS, 
The board, administration and staff at Apple Tree Education Center (NM-477)  would like to thank the SOWERS for your beautiful ministry to nonprofits. Over the years so many wonderful volunteers have provided invaluable work at our various ministries. Most recently the effort of SOWERS have been focused on remodeling an old run down hotel across the street from our Christian school and early childhood program. We are happy to report that intern units are now complete with occupancy granted by the city and state! As I write this letter, interns are arriving from Nebraska, Massachusetts, New York and New Mexico to serve throughout the summer. We could not have accomplished the vision God has placed in our hearts without the help of SOWERS. 
When I consider all the volunteers that have come from all over the US to help make our vision a reality, I am overwhelmed by the wonder of the Body of Christ. Whether it's joining the SOWERS for morning devotions, admiring their interatction with children, teens and families, or watching in amazement as a female senior citizen lays 1000 square feet of tile in recond time, the SOWERS are truly an example of Christ's love in action. From Shenandoah, the Bates and the families we serve, Thank you! 
 
Serving Sierra County, 
Rebecca Dow
May 29, 2012
 
Dear Sam and Sally SOWER......
Servants on Wheels Ever Ready

 Dear Sam,

Why is it that when I request a winter lottery project along with 2nd and 3rd choice I still don't get a project ?

Signed,

Just Curious

Dear Curious, 

When assignments are made to lottery projects,all lottery projects are gone through and first choices are assigned before 2nd and 3rd choices are reviewed.  If you request 3 popular projects (projects that get more requests than openings) as your 1st, 2nd, and 3rd choices, they are most likely filled with first choices and thus leave no openings for 2nd and 3rd choices.  It is recommended that when requesting a very popular project as your first choice, your 2nd and/or 3rd choice should be one of the less requested (i.e. popular) projects. I'm sure the Lord will bless your service wherever He sends you!

In Him,

Sam 

Sam and Sally  would love to hear from you if you have any questions about the SOWER Guidelines or SOWER etiquette. Contact them at samandsally@sowerministry.org.  

Google Earth

Don't forget to check out the link on the Members Only page get a "real earth" feel for where a project is located. But as always, use the directions in the Gram to get there with your rig!  

FREE brochures and business cards are available from the office!  
Check out ALL the SOWER Merchandise available   -  On the Member Page or use the newly
 revised form at the back of the Sowergram!
Quick Links -
To send in a prayer request or praise item-
To contact the office -
903-882-8070  
In This Issue
A Bend in the Road
Reunion Information
Article Title
Google Earth
New Projects!!!!
It Pays to Advertise
Facebook
Newsletter Archive
NEW PROJECTS
 
Sandia Park, NM 
Camp Oro Quay
Camp Oro Quay is located in the San Pedro mountains South of Santa Fe, New Mexico (elevation is 7100 ft).  It is a non-denominational, non-profit, Bible based organization with  a mission to provide resources where children and adults can come and learn about the Bible and the importance of knowing Jesus Christ as their personal savior.
Camp Oro Quay (NM-505) is open from May through October and has spots for three SOWERS!  Check it out!

 

Boys and Girls Homes of North Carolina
Lake Waccamaw, NC
 
Boys and Girls Homes NC
Boys and Girls Homes of North Carolina (NC-506) is dedicated to providing a comprehensive array of residential and community based services to meet the needs of vulnerable children by addressing their spiritual,  physical, emotional, social, and educational development. Located between Florence and Wilmington, NC, it's a perfect spot for fitting in a project on your way to Florida!  It has 8 spots available and is open Oct-Nov-Dec-Mar-April-May. (And good news - the GL spot has already been filled for October and November!)
Manheim Christian Day School
Manheim, PA
 
Manheim Christian Day School
Manheim Christian Day School (PA-504) is a K-8 Christian School located in beautiful Lancaster County, PA.  They are excited about partnering with SOWERs during the summer months as they refresh the school building and grounds for educating children with a Christ-centered world view. All of the 2012 openings are full, but keep an eye out for more opportunities next summer!
Sowergram Link
 
Click on the Dragonfly to get to the Members Page and the most recent PLS! 
Have a question or concern for the Board? 

If you'd like to contact all the Board of Trustee members at once - 
Send an email addressed to the SOWER office with "For the Trustees" in the subject line.  Presto - the office staff will immediatly get it on its way to the entire Board.
Of course, you are welcome to contact any member of the Board indivudually by phone or email using  the information in the roster.

Servants on Wheels Ever Ready 

"It pays to advertise," as Paul Clark would say. 

The four of us were in Tampa working at the Hope Children's Home. We decided on one of our days off we would go to the Gulf for a day at the beach. While stopped at a light on highway 60, I noticed a fellow in the lane next to us was looking at our 9 inch SOWER emblem we had placed on the side of Don's truck. He motioned for me to lower my window. He asked if we had any literature about the group? The only thing I could think of and was handy, was the business cards I carry in my billfold. About that time the light turned green. As I reached for my billfold I told him to stay next to us while I looked for the business card. Don edged over and we passed it to him as we traveled down the street. He took the card, waved and then turned around. It pays to advertise and be prepared.
 
Charles and Diane Zaharako #2983 and Don and Margaret Acton #2988  

 

Just the Facts
Number of Active SOWERS
639
 
Number of SOWER projects requesting SOWER Assistance for June 2012
106
 
Number of SOWER projects receiving SOWER Assistance for June 2012
42
 
Number of SOWERS working in June 2012 (Including SOAs)
76

IMPORTANT DATES

JULY 1

Ballots for new Board members must be postmarked by July 1st to be included in the count. 

JULY 12

Deadline for lottery requests!

 

SOWER Blog Roll

See what other SOWERS are doing around the country! 

Sower Adventures

Bill and Carol Cairns 

Roger's SOWER Blog

Roger & Nola Sorenson

Soltesweb.net

Ed & Patty Soltes

On a Wheel and a Prayer 

Don & Jenny Rasmussen

Bob and Billie on the Road 

Bob & Billie Wakeman

RV There Yet -

 Gary & Stephanie Conrad

Follow the Sun

John & Mary Flynn 

 Do YOU have a Blog you'd like to share? Send me the link, and we'll add it to the "Blog Roll". 


SOWER Numbers
You're more than a number to us, but ANYTIME you communicate with the office (or a trustee) - either by email or snail mail or voice mail, PLEASE include your full name and your SOWER number.  This is especially important if you are requesting a project or making any changes to your personal information.   Thanks!

Servants on Wheels Ever Ready
If you're a member of Facebook (trying to keep track of those grandkids!) we'd love to have you join the SOWER Facebook Group! You're welcome to post about projects and upload pictures.  Click on the Facebook Icon for a direct link to the SOWER Facebook Group.  It's always a blessing to hear and see what's going on in the SOWER Family! 
 
Looking for a past issue of the 
e-Newsletter?
Check out the new ARCHIVE of every issue of of this e-Newsletter 
Psst - Have you sent in your ballot yet?

  

So, chosen by God for this new life of love, dress in the wardrobe God picked out for you: compassion, kindness, humility, quiet strength, discipline. Be even-tempered, content with second place, quick to forgive an offense. Forgive as quickly and completely as the Master forgave you. And regardless of what else you put on, wear love. It's your basic, all-purpose garment. Never be without it.

 

Colossians 3:12-14

The Message