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Dave & Shawn Smith
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Open Door Baptist Mission | Greenville, South Carolina
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Haley, Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney
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April 7, 2018
Dave and Shawn Smith Prayer Update - Spring 2018
He is Risen!
While winter weather seems to be holding on for many of you up north, we are slowly but steadily warming up here in South Carolina. We trust you had a blessed Easter celebrating Jesus' resurrection. We continue to serve those who are on the front lines preaching the Good News that Jesus, who is alive and victorious over the grave, has provided salvation to all mankind. We rejoice over reports of those who have repented and are trusting in Christ alone. Thank you for partnering with us and praying for fruit that remains.
Haiti Trip
Thank you for praying for Shawn and Hayley as they served in a ladies conference in Haiti. The conference was held at beautiful Camp Bossier located on the coast of southern Haiti. Shawn and Hayley enjoyed the fellowship and getting to know the ladies (photos below). They became fans of kasav (cassava - similar to a tortilla) and brought several stacks home with them to enjoy. The theme of the conference was “The Gift of Faith” and Shawn enjoyed teaching some sessions. At the end of the conference several ladies shared testimonies of God’s grace in their lives. While they were there, a young pastor became deathly ill and had to be medically evacuated to Cuba. God answered many prayers and we’re thankful that the pastor has recovered and returned home.
Asia Trip
Dave and Shawn will be leaving the end of the month for a 2-week trip to Asia. We will be visiting missionaries serving in restricted areas. Pray with us that we will be an encouragement to missionaries and believers and for opportunities to be light. We continue to feel the “weight” of the Great Commission and the thousands of people groups who have never heard the Gospel. Continue to pray with us that God will call forth laborers to go to the most neglected regions of the harvest fields and to shine the light of the Gospel. Thank you for your prayers and partnership in serving missionaries with Open Door Baptist Missions.
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley Smith
Dave and Shawn Smith Prayer Update - Spring 2018
He is Risen!
While winter weather seems to be holding on for many of you up north, we are slowly but steadily warming up here in South Carolina. We trust you had a blessed Easter celebrating Jesus' resurrection. We continue to serve those who are on the front lines preaching the Good News that Jesus, who is alive and victorious over the grave, has provided salvation to all mankind. We rejoice over reports of those who have repented and are trusting in Christ alone. Thank you for partnering with us and praying for fruit that remains.
Haiti Trip
Thank you for praying for Shawn and Hayley as they served in a ladies conference in Haiti. The conference was held at beautiful Camp Bossier located on the coast of southern Haiti. Shawn and Hayley enjoyed the fellowship and getting to know the ladies (photos below). They became fans of kasav (cassava - similar to a tortilla) and brought several stacks home with them to enjoy. The theme of the conference was “The Gift of Faith” and Shawn enjoyed teaching some sessions. At the end of the conference several ladies shared testimonies of God’s grace in their lives. While they were there, a young pastor became deathly ill and had to be medically evacuated to Cuba. God answered many prayers and we’re thankful that the pastor has recovered and returned home.
Asia Trip
Dave and Shawn will be leaving the end of the month for a 2-week trip to Asia. We will be visiting missionaries serving in restricted areas. Pray with us that we will be an encouragement to missionaries and believers and for opportunities to be light. We continue to feel the “weight” of the Great Commission and the thousands of people groups who have never heard the Gospel. Continue to pray with us that God will call forth laborers to go to the most neglected regions of the harvest fields and to shine the light of the Gospel. Thank you for your prayers and partnership in serving missionaries with Open Door Baptist Missions.
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley Smith
December 14, 2017
Sharing the Good News
As the days countdown to Christmas, we reflect again on God’s goodness and grace. An early, light snowfall came unexpectedly for us in South Carolina that was a nice Christmas surprise. We’re thankful for the missionaries serving across the globe, faithfully telling the Good News of Jesus’ birth, perfect life, death and resurrection. They share with us the complex and painful challenges that face them. While our wisdom and abilities are inadequate, God's grace is sufficient. We’re thankful for their tenacity to endure hardness as good soldiers. We pray with them during the dark times, and rejoice with them for the few that respond in faith, turning from darkness to light. We continue to pray that as the Gospel is preached in various forms around the world this Christmas season, that many more will repent of their sins, trust in Christ alone, and walk in newness of life.
Grateful for your PartnershipOur Fall schedule was busy with conferences and meetings in churches and Christian colleges. We’re thankful for travelling safety and the many opportunities to talk about God's heart for the nations. The needs are overwhelming and we continue to pray that God will call new laborers, and that those who are called will respond. Sometimes it gets discouraging when the needs are so great and the laborers are few. Pray that we will not grow weary.
While we are ministering to others, we are thankful for the many who minister to us. We are often amazed at God’s goodness to our family through your prayers and financial support. Through all of the twists and turns, your partnership has been a tremendous encouragement and reminder of God’s faithful presence. Thank you for continuing to stand with us and hold the ropes.
We look forward to the open doors awaiting us in 2018 and once again, we ask for prayers for wisdom, for strength, and for God to bless our efforts with lasting fruit. Shawn and Hayley will be going to Haiti in January to serve in a ladies conference. Shawn will be teaching and Hayley will be helping as needed. Pray with us that God will work in hearts for His glory.
We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley
Sharing the Good News
As the days countdown to Christmas, we reflect again on God’s goodness and grace. An early, light snowfall came unexpectedly for us in South Carolina that was a nice Christmas surprise. We’re thankful for the missionaries serving across the globe, faithfully telling the Good News of Jesus’ birth, perfect life, death and resurrection. They share with us the complex and painful challenges that face them. While our wisdom and abilities are inadequate, God's grace is sufficient. We’re thankful for their tenacity to endure hardness as good soldiers. We pray with them during the dark times, and rejoice with them for the few that respond in faith, turning from darkness to light. We continue to pray that as the Gospel is preached in various forms around the world this Christmas season, that many more will repent of their sins, trust in Christ alone, and walk in newness of life.
Grateful for your PartnershipOur Fall schedule was busy with conferences and meetings in churches and Christian colleges. We’re thankful for travelling safety and the many opportunities to talk about God's heart for the nations. The needs are overwhelming and we continue to pray that God will call new laborers, and that those who are called will respond. Sometimes it gets discouraging when the needs are so great and the laborers are few. Pray that we will not grow weary.
While we are ministering to others, we are thankful for the many who minister to us. We are often amazed at God’s goodness to our family through your prayers and financial support. Through all of the twists and turns, your partnership has been a tremendous encouragement and reminder of God’s faithful presence. Thank you for continuing to stand with us and hold the ropes.
We look forward to the open doors awaiting us in 2018 and once again, we ask for prayers for wisdom, for strength, and for God to bless our efforts with lasting fruit. Shawn and Hayley will be going to Haiti in January to serve in a ladies conference. Shawn will be teaching and Hayley will be helping as needed. Pray with us that God will work in hearts for His glory.
We wish you all a Merry Christmas and a blessed New Year!
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley
Dave & Shawn Smith Prayer Update - Fall 2017THE HEAVENS DECLARE
Our thoughts and prayers are with those suffering the effects of the hurricanes and the earthquake in Mexico. Irma & Maria were of particular concern as we followed their paths across the Caribbean, and were burdened for missionaries and national friends serving in Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Haiti and Cuba. As Irma turned north we prayed for our Floridian family members who were without power for several days. Then the devastating earthquake hit Mexico unexpectedly. We were relieved to hear that ODBM missionaries and their church family are safe in Cuernavaca. Pray for the thousands of people still suffering in Puerto Rico and Mexico, and for the furtherance of the Gospel in those regions. ODBM serves missionaries and ministries in both Puerto Rico and Mexico. Gifts may be sent to ODBM designated to help with needs in either country.
It was just weeks earlier that we had the privilege of viewing a total solar eclipse. Thousands came to SC to see the sun blotted out by the path of the moon for a couple of minutes. The eclipse was spectacular, the hurricanes and earthquake devastating, but all revealing the power, majesty and glory of our God. We continue to pray and strive in leading Open Door Baptist Missions to declare God’s marvelous works and proclaim His salvation to all nations so that they may give Him the glory due His name.
REASONS TO PRAISE & PRAY
In the past couple of weeks, it has been a blessing to send-off a family serving in a restricted region in Asia and to see a new church birthed in Lincoln, NE. Two young believers were baptized in Uganda and several professed Christ in Ghana.
A man recently came to Christ in WV. In giving his testimony, he said “during all my years of hunting in the outdoors I have never gotten lost, but yesterday I realized that I’ve been lost all along.” Gospel seeds are being planted in the hearts of Muslim children in France through an English Bible club. The seeds of new church plants are being planted through regular Bible studies in a couple of rural villages in South Africa. In Haiti, national pastors have been conducting meetings with missionaries to discuss how they can lead their congregations in being givers and senders—sending missionaries from their churches to preach the Gospel. We praise God for how He is building His church.
At the same time, some missionaries have had their homes vandalized and face security threats. Others face serious illnesses. Missionaries regularly face dangers, trials and spiritual warfare, and are in need of compassionate care and constant prayer.
SERVING YOUNG & OLD
We regularly pray for the Lord of the Harvest to send forth laborers and lead us to the ones He would have us to serve. It has been exciting to see those in their twenties along with those in their sixties serve in missions. Pray that we will have wisdom and understanding in serving missionaries across the globe.
GRATEFUL
Thank you for your continued prayers. Your partnership is vital to us and our ministry. We appreciate your continued prayers for our financial support. While that continues to be a need, we’re thankful for God’s faithfulness
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley
Copyright © 2017 Open Door Baptist Missions, All rights reserved.
Our thoughts and prayers are with those suffering the effects of the hurricanes and the earthquake in Mexico. Irma & Maria were of particular concern as we followed their paths across the Caribbean, and were burdened for missionaries and national friends serving in Puerto Rico, Dominican Republic, Haiti and Cuba. As Irma turned north we prayed for our Floridian family members who were without power for several days. Then the devastating earthquake hit Mexico unexpectedly. We were relieved to hear that ODBM missionaries and their church family are safe in Cuernavaca. Pray for the thousands of people still suffering in Puerto Rico and Mexico, and for the furtherance of the Gospel in those regions. ODBM serves missionaries and ministries in both Puerto Rico and Mexico. Gifts may be sent to ODBM designated to help with needs in either country.
It was just weeks earlier that we had the privilege of viewing a total solar eclipse. Thousands came to SC to see the sun blotted out by the path of the moon for a couple of minutes. The eclipse was spectacular, the hurricanes and earthquake devastating, but all revealing the power, majesty and glory of our God. We continue to pray and strive in leading Open Door Baptist Missions to declare God’s marvelous works and proclaim His salvation to all nations so that they may give Him the glory due His name.
REASONS TO PRAISE & PRAY
In the past couple of weeks, it has been a blessing to send-off a family serving in a restricted region in Asia and to see a new church birthed in Lincoln, NE. Two young believers were baptized in Uganda and several professed Christ in Ghana.
A man recently came to Christ in WV. In giving his testimony, he said “during all my years of hunting in the outdoors I have never gotten lost, but yesterday I realized that I’ve been lost all along.” Gospel seeds are being planted in the hearts of Muslim children in France through an English Bible club. The seeds of new church plants are being planted through regular Bible studies in a couple of rural villages in South Africa. In Haiti, national pastors have been conducting meetings with missionaries to discuss how they can lead their congregations in being givers and senders—sending missionaries from their churches to preach the Gospel. We praise God for how He is building His church.
At the same time, some missionaries have had their homes vandalized and face security threats. Others face serious illnesses. Missionaries regularly face dangers, trials and spiritual warfare, and are in need of compassionate care and constant prayer.
SERVING YOUNG & OLD
We regularly pray for the Lord of the Harvest to send forth laborers and lead us to the ones He would have us to serve. It has been exciting to see those in their twenties along with those in their sixties serve in missions. Pray that we will have wisdom and understanding in serving missionaries across the globe.
GRATEFUL
Thank you for your continued prayers. Your partnership is vital to us and our ministry. We appreciate your continued prayers for our financial support. While that continues to be a need, we’re thankful for God’s faithfulness
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley
Copyright © 2017 Open Door Baptist Missions, All rights reserved.
Dave & Shawn Smith Prayer Update - Spring 2017
EASTER HOPE
I remember preaching in a remote village one Easter morning several years ago. I began my sermon by asking “What special day is today?” No one could give the right answer. Some thought it might be Christmas! I remember thinking, “How could they not know that today is Easter?” The sad reality is that for millions around the world, Easter is just another day. They have never heard the Good News that on that first Easter, Jesus, being God, willingly gave His life, shed His blood, and rose again to pay for sin. Each Easter we celebrate God’s amazing grace, His unfathomable love, and His eternal salvation, but do we soberly reflect on those who need to hear. This Easter, may we rejoice and give praise for Jesus’ resurrection, but also weep and pray for those lost in darkness. How will they hear? (Romans 10:14-15)
AMERICAN OPPORTUNITIES
In January, Dave and Shawn participated in ODBM’s annual USA church planting conference. The fellowship with our ODBM church planters was refreshing. As America continues its moral decline in rejecting God, our own nation becomes an increasingly needy mission field. ODBM has remained committed to making disciples in America through church planting. Church planters serving in WA, NV, AZ, UT, NE, MI, WV & NY are in need of encouragement and partnership. One doesn’t have to leave America nor their career to serve on strategic teams to make disciples and plant churches in some of the most needy regions of our country. There are countless opportunities to relocate, find new jobs, and join a church planting team. As the nations come to America there are incredible opportunities to impact the world’s people groups by actively making disciples and engaging in US church planting.
THANKFUL
We praise the Lord and are thankful that 3 churches (South Africa, Canada, & NY) have become self-supporting in the past several months. We’re thankful for open doors for missionaries to preach the Gospel in new rural villages. We’re thankful for God’s protection to missionaries serving in precarious regions and for the training of national missionaries in Asia. We’re thankful for recent opportunities to guide young people interested in missions while we have served in colleges and churches. While we lost financial support at the beginning of the year, we’re thankful for God’s provision and meeting needs through new support. We’re thankful for upcoming opportunities to visit and minister with church planters in Nebraska and Haiti.
FAMILY NEWS
Hayley (14) enjoyed participating in the world premiere theatre production of Prince Caspian. Sydney (17) is graduating from high school! She’s excited for the opportunities God is giving her to learn and develop her skills in the communicative arts. Abby (19) is looking forward to serving as a camp counselor this summer. We completed an extensive home renovation project (kitchen, living area, laundry, etc.) over the winter. We’re thankful for great Christian friends who have helped through the entire process.
Thank you for your continued prayers and partnership with our family in ministry.
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley
EASTER HOPE
I remember preaching in a remote village one Easter morning several years ago. I began my sermon by asking “What special day is today?” No one could give the right answer. Some thought it might be Christmas! I remember thinking, “How could they not know that today is Easter?” The sad reality is that for millions around the world, Easter is just another day. They have never heard the Good News that on that first Easter, Jesus, being God, willingly gave His life, shed His blood, and rose again to pay for sin. Each Easter we celebrate God’s amazing grace, His unfathomable love, and His eternal salvation, but do we soberly reflect on those who need to hear. This Easter, may we rejoice and give praise for Jesus’ resurrection, but also weep and pray for those lost in darkness. How will they hear? (Romans 10:14-15)
AMERICAN OPPORTUNITIES
In January, Dave and Shawn participated in ODBM’s annual USA church planting conference. The fellowship with our ODBM church planters was refreshing. As America continues its moral decline in rejecting God, our own nation becomes an increasingly needy mission field. ODBM has remained committed to making disciples in America through church planting. Church planters serving in WA, NV, AZ, UT, NE, MI, WV & NY are in need of encouragement and partnership. One doesn’t have to leave America nor their career to serve on strategic teams to make disciples and plant churches in some of the most needy regions of our country. There are countless opportunities to relocate, find new jobs, and join a church planting team. As the nations come to America there are incredible opportunities to impact the world’s people groups by actively making disciples and engaging in US church planting.
THANKFUL
We praise the Lord and are thankful that 3 churches (South Africa, Canada, & NY) have become self-supporting in the past several months. We’re thankful for open doors for missionaries to preach the Gospel in new rural villages. We’re thankful for God’s protection to missionaries serving in precarious regions and for the training of national missionaries in Asia. We’re thankful for recent opportunities to guide young people interested in missions while we have served in colleges and churches. While we lost financial support at the beginning of the year, we’re thankful for God’s provision and meeting needs through new support. We’re thankful for upcoming opportunities to visit and minister with church planters in Nebraska and Haiti.
FAMILY NEWS
Hayley (14) enjoyed participating in the world premiere theatre production of Prince Caspian. Sydney (17) is graduating from high school! She’s excited for the opportunities God is giving her to learn and develop her skills in the communicative arts. Abby (19) is looking forward to serving as a camp counselor this summer. We completed an extensive home renovation project (kitchen, living area, laundry, etc.) over the winter. We’re thankful for great Christian friends who have helped through the entire process.
Thank you for your continued prayers and partnership with our family in ministry.
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley
Dave & Shawn Smith Prayer Update - Fall 2016
FOOTBALL & MISSIONS
I (Dave) love the fall season for the cooler weather, the colorful leaves, and football! Football is an iconic team sport. Each position has very distinct roles, yet each is vital to the team’s success. In this aspect, I am reminded of missions. First are the missionaries, serving on the front lines, making disciples, and planting churches. The foundation for each missionary is their home and sending church. The local church is the missionary’s primary stability, authority, and refuge. Next are many other churches and individuals who faithfully pray and financially support missionaries. Finally, the mission agency serves a critical role in the team effort by using its experience and expertise to encourage and strategically assist both missionaries and churches. This is our role, and we are privileged to serve churches and missionaries to impact the nations with the Gospel for God’s glory!
THRIVING AMIDST ADVERSITY
As the spiritual climate erodes in America, concerns grow about losing religious freedom and being attacked for Scriptural convictions in a politically correct and anti-Christian world. We recently attended the Fellowship of Missions conference for mission leaders. The fellowship was refreshing while the interactive sessions prepared us to lead ODBM’s future Gospel ministry in increasing hostile environments. While elections lack promise, our trust is in the Lord knowing that Christ will build His Church. Pray for wisdom and boldness, that as times get darker, our lights will shine brighter.
PRAY FOR LABORERS
During the next couple of months, we will be ministering in Christian colleges, motivating students to be on mission for Christ. We are looking forward to conducting workshops, teaching classes, leading discipleship groups, and connecting with students. Pray with us that God will touch hearts, call new laborers, and lead us to the ones He would have us to encourage and serve.
PRAY FOR THE UNREACHED
We continue to be reminded and burdened for the millions who have never heard the Gospel. Dave will be attending a conference later this month to explore creative means to penetrate closed regions and impact unreached people groups with the Gospel. Pray for us that we will continue to learn and be persistent in pursuing open doors.
ODBM missionary En Khan Kham recently conducted missionary training seminars for national missionaries preparing to make disciples among unreached peoples. Pray for safety, conviction, steadfastness, and lasting fruit.
FAMILY NEWS
Abby (19) and Sydney (17) stay busy balancing work schedules with their studies. Hayley (14) wants to start driving. (c: Shawn homeschools Hayley, works part-time, and teaches a ladies Bible study. We appreciate your prayers for our family! Your partnership is valued. Please continue to pray for God’s financial provision as we have experienced a decline in support. Thanks!
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley
FOOTBALL & MISSIONS
I (Dave) love the fall season for the cooler weather, the colorful leaves, and football! Football is an iconic team sport. Each position has very distinct roles, yet each is vital to the team’s success. In this aspect, I am reminded of missions. First are the missionaries, serving on the front lines, making disciples, and planting churches. The foundation for each missionary is their home and sending church. The local church is the missionary’s primary stability, authority, and refuge. Next are many other churches and individuals who faithfully pray and financially support missionaries. Finally, the mission agency serves a critical role in the team effort by using its experience and expertise to encourage and strategically assist both missionaries and churches. This is our role, and we are privileged to serve churches and missionaries to impact the nations with the Gospel for God’s glory!
THRIVING AMIDST ADVERSITY
As the spiritual climate erodes in America, concerns grow about losing religious freedom and being attacked for Scriptural convictions in a politically correct and anti-Christian world. We recently attended the Fellowship of Missions conference for mission leaders. The fellowship was refreshing while the interactive sessions prepared us to lead ODBM’s future Gospel ministry in increasing hostile environments. While elections lack promise, our trust is in the Lord knowing that Christ will build His Church. Pray for wisdom and boldness, that as times get darker, our lights will shine brighter.
PRAY FOR LABORERS
During the next couple of months, we will be ministering in Christian colleges, motivating students to be on mission for Christ. We are looking forward to conducting workshops, teaching classes, leading discipleship groups, and connecting with students. Pray with us that God will touch hearts, call new laborers, and lead us to the ones He would have us to encourage and serve.
PRAY FOR THE UNREACHED
We continue to be reminded and burdened for the millions who have never heard the Gospel. Dave will be attending a conference later this month to explore creative means to penetrate closed regions and impact unreached people groups with the Gospel. Pray for us that we will continue to learn and be persistent in pursuing open doors.
ODBM missionary En Khan Kham recently conducted missionary training seminars for national missionaries preparing to make disciples among unreached peoples. Pray for safety, conviction, steadfastness, and lasting fruit.
FAMILY NEWS
Abby (19) and Sydney (17) stay busy balancing work schedules with their studies. Hayley (14) wants to start driving. (c: Shawn homeschools Hayley, works part-time, and teaches a ladies Bible study. We appreciate your prayers for our family! Your partnership is valued. Please continue to pray for God’s financial provision as we have experienced a decline in support. Thanks!
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley
Dave & Shawn Smith Prayer Update - Spring 2016
MISSIONS IN AMERICA
At the beginning of the year, I (Dave) spent a few days with our ODBM North American church planters during our annual Church Planters Conference. The bulk of the conference was spent praying for each couple as they shared their blessings and struggles. As I listened to their “accomplishments” and “failures”, I was touched by their transparency, passion for the Gospel, and their compassion for their sheep. Some may not view American church planters as “real” missionaries, yet they face unique and daunting challenges as genuine laborers in a great and needy mission field—America. How will the Church in America continue to impact the nations if we neglect our own? Ryan Meers, friend and ODBM board member, spoke on leadership at the conference. Little did I know that God was working in his heart for church planting. Shortly after the conference he and his wife, Debbie, shared with us that God was calling them to plant a church in Lincoln, Nebraska (where Ryan is from). Please pray for God’s leading and provision for the Meers family as they seek to make disciples and plant a new church.
ON THE ROAD AGAIN ...
We’ve ministered in NV, FL, SC, IN, IL and AZ already this year. It is a privilege to minister in Christian colleges and churches, sharing the needs and opportunities in missions. God has enabled us to arrive safely at all meetings, including driving through a blizzard in Indiana. Occasionally, one of our girls is able to travel with Dave, which allows for some great Daddy-daughter time.
CHRIST AT WORK
A new church was planted in Zimbabwe by nationals discipled and trained by missionaries in South Africa. God has called twenty young national missionaries in Myanmar to preach the Gospel in remote villages. They are being trained in evangelism, discipleship and church planting. National pastors in the Middle East gathered early this year for training and spiritual enrichment. The forgotten deaf living in remote villages in northern Haiti are being taught the Gospel and sign language. A former Chinese agnostic responded to the Gospel by faith in Christ through a new church plant in Buffalo, NY. We have the joy of seeing Christ at work around the world, and we share these things with you to encourage you and thank you for partnering with us so that we may serve missionaries around the world.
AFRICA
I (Dave) will be travelling to Africa the end of April to visit ODBM missionaries serving in South Africa, Uganda, and Ghana. I’m looking forward to the fellowship with missionaries and national believers, and I hope to visit the new church in Zimbabwe! Pray with me that I will honor our Father, be a faithful witness, and be a blessing to believers.
CONTINUED PRAYER
We need and appreciate your continued prayers for safety, good health, and financial provision. We need Him every day and are thankful that He never leaves us nor forsakes us!
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley
MISSIONS IN AMERICA
At the beginning of the year, I (Dave) spent a few days with our ODBM North American church planters during our annual Church Planters Conference. The bulk of the conference was spent praying for each couple as they shared their blessings and struggles. As I listened to their “accomplishments” and “failures”, I was touched by their transparency, passion for the Gospel, and their compassion for their sheep. Some may not view American church planters as “real” missionaries, yet they face unique and daunting challenges as genuine laborers in a great and needy mission field—America. How will the Church in America continue to impact the nations if we neglect our own? Ryan Meers, friend and ODBM board member, spoke on leadership at the conference. Little did I know that God was working in his heart for church planting. Shortly after the conference he and his wife, Debbie, shared with us that God was calling them to plant a church in Lincoln, Nebraska (where Ryan is from). Please pray for God’s leading and provision for the Meers family as they seek to make disciples and plant a new church.
ON THE ROAD AGAIN ...
We’ve ministered in NV, FL, SC, IN, IL and AZ already this year. It is a privilege to minister in Christian colleges and churches, sharing the needs and opportunities in missions. God has enabled us to arrive safely at all meetings, including driving through a blizzard in Indiana. Occasionally, one of our girls is able to travel with Dave, which allows for some great Daddy-daughter time.
CHRIST AT WORK
A new church was planted in Zimbabwe by nationals discipled and trained by missionaries in South Africa. God has called twenty young national missionaries in Myanmar to preach the Gospel in remote villages. They are being trained in evangelism, discipleship and church planting. National pastors in the Middle East gathered early this year for training and spiritual enrichment. The forgotten deaf living in remote villages in northern Haiti are being taught the Gospel and sign language. A former Chinese agnostic responded to the Gospel by faith in Christ through a new church plant in Buffalo, NY. We have the joy of seeing Christ at work around the world, and we share these things with you to encourage you and thank you for partnering with us so that we may serve missionaries around the world.
AFRICA
I (Dave) will be travelling to Africa the end of April to visit ODBM missionaries serving in South Africa, Uganda, and Ghana. I’m looking forward to the fellowship with missionaries and national believers, and I hope to visit the new church in Zimbabwe! Pray with me that I will honor our Father, be a faithful witness, and be a blessing to believers.
CONTINUED PRAYER
We need and appreciate your continued prayers for safety, good health, and financial provision. We need Him every day and are thankful that He never leaves us nor forsakes us!
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley
Click on photo for description.
Thank you for praying and partnering with the Smiths to impact the nations!
HAPPY THANKSGIVING We hope you have a very happy and blessed Thanksgiving. We are thankful for our ODBM missionaries who faithfully serve around the globe making disciples of Christ. We are thankful for all of you and your faithful prayers and partnership, enabling us to serve at ODBM. Most of all, we are thankful for our Savior, Jesus Christ, who has redeemed us, called us to serve in His Great Commission, and given us eternal joy.
SERVING IN THE USA
The Fall months have kept us busy travelling and ministering in 6 states here in the USA. It has been a blessing to visit many of you and serve in several of our supporting churches. We also visited 4 Christian Colleges, teaching classes, leading workshops, and interacting with students during missions conferences. While striving to impact the nations with the Gospel, we are burdened and passionate about serving churches to impact the needy mission field of America.
ODBM TURNS 25
This fall ODBM celebrated our 25th anniversary. We are humbled and thankful to the Lord for enabling ODBM to serve churches and missionaries to impact the nations for God’s glory. We praise Him for those who have become His disciples and for churches planted in 18 countries. We need your prayers that God will continue using ODBM to preach the Gospel. Please pray specifically that God will call new laborers into the harvest fields, and that God will lead us to those laborers He would have us to serve.
SERVING IN MYANMAR
Recent historic elections have been held in Myanmar. Millions are hoping that the new leadership will bring positive change. We are thankful for the missionaries and believers laboring in cities and remote villages freely giving the hope of the Gospel. Pray for Dave as he will be flying to Myanmar the weekend after Thanksgiving. He will be visiting with ODBM missionaries, visiting churches and Burmese missionaries in remote regions, and teaching a seminar at a Bible college in the capital city. Pray for safety, good health, and that God will use him to be a blessing to others in Myanmar.
PRAY FOR PARIS
ODBM missionary, Kristi Colas, serves in Paris and was in the 10th, 11th, and 12th districts on the morning of the 13th, but was safely inside babysitting children when the horrific terrorist attacks took place later that evening. Since the attacks, Kristi has had opportunities to have coffee and share God’s truth with unsaved friends. Pray for safety, wisdom, and open doors for Kristi and her church planting team as they share the Gospel of Peace to many living in fear and pain.
MERRY CHRISTMAS
We want to wish all of you a Merry Christmas. We hope you and your family enjoy a blessed Christmas. Our prayer is that we all may have many opportunities to share the greatest news of all, that God became man to pay the ultimate price in order give the ultimate gift—eternal life.
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley Smith
HAPPY THANKSGIVING We hope you have a very happy and blessed Thanksgiving. We are thankful for our ODBM missionaries who faithfully serve around the globe making disciples of Christ. We are thankful for all of you and your faithful prayers and partnership, enabling us to serve at ODBM. Most of all, we are thankful for our Savior, Jesus Christ, who has redeemed us, called us to serve in His Great Commission, and given us eternal joy.
SERVING IN THE USA
The Fall months have kept us busy travelling and ministering in 6 states here in the USA. It has been a blessing to visit many of you and serve in several of our supporting churches. We also visited 4 Christian Colleges, teaching classes, leading workshops, and interacting with students during missions conferences. While striving to impact the nations with the Gospel, we are burdened and passionate about serving churches to impact the needy mission field of America.
ODBM TURNS 25
This fall ODBM celebrated our 25th anniversary. We are humbled and thankful to the Lord for enabling ODBM to serve churches and missionaries to impact the nations for God’s glory. We praise Him for those who have become His disciples and for churches planted in 18 countries. We need your prayers that God will continue using ODBM to preach the Gospel. Please pray specifically that God will call new laborers into the harvest fields, and that God will lead us to those laborers He would have us to serve.
SERVING IN MYANMAR
Recent historic elections have been held in Myanmar. Millions are hoping that the new leadership will bring positive change. We are thankful for the missionaries and believers laboring in cities and remote villages freely giving the hope of the Gospel. Pray for Dave as he will be flying to Myanmar the weekend after Thanksgiving. He will be visiting with ODBM missionaries, visiting churches and Burmese missionaries in remote regions, and teaching a seminar at a Bible college in the capital city. Pray for safety, good health, and that God will use him to be a blessing to others in Myanmar.
PRAY FOR PARIS
ODBM missionary, Kristi Colas, serves in Paris and was in the 10th, 11th, and 12th districts on the morning of the 13th, but was safely inside babysitting children when the horrific terrorist attacks took place later that evening. Since the attacks, Kristi has had opportunities to have coffee and share God’s truth with unsaved friends. Pray for safety, wisdom, and open doors for Kristi and her church planting team as they share the Gospel of Peace to many living in fear and pain.
MERRY CHRISTMAS
We want to wish all of you a Merry Christmas. We hope you and your family enjoy a blessed Christmas. Our prayer is that we all may have many opportunities to share the greatest news of all, that God became man to pay the ultimate price in order give the ultimate gift—eternal life.
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley Smith
March 2015 SAFETY
During the past year we have noticed a significant increase in danger and security risk to missionaries. In December, an ODBM missionary family, the Meyers, were attacked in their home one evening. God protected their family despite the horrific attack and serious threats. They returned to the US for two months to be refreshed, take care of family needs, seek counsel and pray. They recently returned to their field of South Africa. We are privileged to serve missionaries who regularly face real risks and real threats because they love Christ and love the Gospel. Please remember to faithfully pray for missionaries’ safety and protection. AMERICA, A MISSION FIELD
In January, we (Dave & Shawn) visited two ODBM church planters in Arizona and participated in our annual ODBM church planters conference. Since growing up as a MK and then serving as missionaries in Papua New Guinea, our missions emphasis had been on foreign missions. However in recent years, God has impressed upon our hearts and minds that America is a huge, urgent and needy mission field. We love and admire our US church planters and consider it a privilege to serve them as they plant churches in the needy mission field of America. GRENADA
Next week Dave will be visiting John & Karen McPherson, ODBM missionaries serving on the island of Carriacou in Grenada. He will be preaching in evangelistic services March 11-13th. Please pray that God will use the preaching of His Word to convict hearts so that the lost will come to Christ and believers will live for Christ. CUBA
Even before the President announced changes in American policy regarding Cuba, God began giving us a burden to seek opportunities to preach the Gospel and partner with Bible-preaching national churches in Cuba. The American policy changes are questionable in many respects, but God is opening a door to preach the Gospel, and encourage believers and churches who have endured challenges for many years.Please ask the Lord to give us wisdom and open doors as ODBM prayerfully seeks God’s leading to make a Gospel impact in Cuba. FAMILY NEWS
Abby is in her last semester of her senior year of high school. She has had a full plate, taking 3 college courses and working a part-time job.
Sydney enjoyed performing 10 times in the Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe at the Academy of Arts. She loves using drama to present the Gospel.
Hayley enjoyed travelling with Dave for a short trip to snowy West Virginia to minister at Appalachian Bible College and in a local church youth group.
Shawn stays extremely busy home schooling, transporting the girls to activities, working part-time in a nursing home and teaching a ladies Bible Study.
Thank you for your love, support and prayers for our family!
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley Smith
During the past year we have noticed a significant increase in danger and security risk to missionaries. In December, an ODBM missionary family, the Meyers, were attacked in their home one evening. God protected their family despite the horrific attack and serious threats. They returned to the US for two months to be refreshed, take care of family needs, seek counsel and pray. They recently returned to their field of South Africa. We are privileged to serve missionaries who regularly face real risks and real threats because they love Christ and love the Gospel. Please remember to faithfully pray for missionaries’ safety and protection. AMERICA, A MISSION FIELD
In January, we (Dave & Shawn) visited two ODBM church planters in Arizona and participated in our annual ODBM church planters conference. Since growing up as a MK and then serving as missionaries in Papua New Guinea, our missions emphasis had been on foreign missions. However in recent years, God has impressed upon our hearts and minds that America is a huge, urgent and needy mission field. We love and admire our US church planters and consider it a privilege to serve them as they plant churches in the needy mission field of America. GRENADA
Next week Dave will be visiting John & Karen McPherson, ODBM missionaries serving on the island of Carriacou in Grenada. He will be preaching in evangelistic services March 11-13th. Please pray that God will use the preaching of His Word to convict hearts so that the lost will come to Christ and believers will live for Christ. CUBA
Even before the President announced changes in American policy regarding Cuba, God began giving us a burden to seek opportunities to preach the Gospel and partner with Bible-preaching national churches in Cuba. The American policy changes are questionable in many respects, but God is opening a door to preach the Gospel, and encourage believers and churches who have endured challenges for many years.Please ask the Lord to give us wisdom and open doors as ODBM prayerfully seeks God’s leading to make a Gospel impact in Cuba. FAMILY NEWS
Abby is in her last semester of her senior year of high school. She has had a full plate, taking 3 college courses and working a part-time job.
Sydney enjoyed performing 10 times in the Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe at the Academy of Arts. She loves using drama to present the Gospel.
Hayley enjoyed travelling with Dave for a short trip to snowy West Virginia to minister at Appalachian Bible College and in a local church youth group.
Shawn stays extremely busy home schooling, transporting the girls to activities, working part-time in a nursing home and teaching a ladies Bible Study.
Thank you for your love, support and prayers for our family!
Praise the Lord with us,
Dave, Shawn, Abby, Sydney & Hayley Smith