Dear Calvary Friends and Family,
Well, the team from the US has finally arrived. Janet and her conference team arrived on Thursday. Gayle Erwin got here Saturday. I came in Sunday. And Lloyd and Karen Pulley arrived this afternoon. We greatly appreciate yours prayers for our journey. Everyone arrived without any of the customary problems. Safe and sound.
Just as importantly, the weather, (which had been really bad before we arrived)...has cleared; and it is unbelievably beautiful. Clear skies, warm temperatures and all around beautiful weather.
This is also the beginning of what they call the "White Nights." We are so far north that the days get really long. Right now it is 10:30PM, and it is still light out. This is such a blessing, because it will give the pastor's an opportunity to enjoy the city with great weather.
Today the team had a chance to rest up before the conference begins tomorrow. We did some touring around the city. I want to send some pictures...but I am not sure my internet connection can handle pic files...I may have to go to an internet cafe to get them out.
Once the conference starts, the team will be working non-stop for three days. So please remember to pray for them... plenty of strength and grace. It is our commitment to make this as worthwhile a time for the pastors and their wives that we possibly can. Most of these folks face great difficulties and challenges on a daily basis. They don't get much personal ministry or encouragement. Our objective is very simple: Let them know that they are loved and that there are people who are praying for them and are standing with them in the battle. Self-doubt can be a powerful struggle for many of these pastors as they labor months on end with little outward evidence of success. Discouragement is one of the devil's favorite tools. Our prayer is that they will return home renewed and joyful.
And I also want to say a special "thank you" to those of you who gave up their family members during this time. We realize that you are making a sacrifice as well...and the spiritual battles are not limited to those of us over here. We are praying for you...even as you are praying for us.
More tomorrow!
Blessings,
Ken Ortize and the Conference Team
