FAC Family News: April

Heart to Heart

Forty is a significant number; especially if you’re in your late thirties. It marks “mid-life” and is a wake-up call to “count the number of our days,” so that we live them to the full. In the Scriptures, forty is often associated with significant events in the life of God’s people.

When the LORD determined to flood the earth in judgment for mankind’s sinfulness, He caused it to rain for forty days and nights. At day 40, Noah opened a window in the ark and sent out a raven, to determine if the water had begun to recede. At age 40, Isaac was married to Rebekah. When Moses went up on Mount Sinai to receive God’s Law, he was there for 40 days and nights, without food or water – sustained by the LORD.

When Moses sent spies to explore the Promised Land, they took 40 days to gather information. When the majority yielded to unbelief because of the giants they found in the land, the LORD determined they would wander in the wilderness 1 year for each of those 40 days. But He also provided for His people in the wilderness, supplying manna (bread from heaven) and supernaturally protecting their clothing so that it did not wear out during those 40 years. Fast forward to the New Testament. Immediately after being baptized by John in the River Jordan (and filled with the Spirit), Jesus’ spent 40 days in the wilderness being tempted by Satan. Those days helped to form his initiation into full-time ministry.

Fast forward again, to the end of Jesus’ life and earthly ministry. Christ died on the Friday, just before the Sabbath began– after celebrating the Passover with His disciples the night before. He victoriously arose from the grave, first thing Sunday morning. The Risen Christ then appeared to His disciples throughout Resurrection Sunday – to Mary Magdelene in the garden, to Peter, and to the two disciples walking along the Emmaus road. He then appeared to the Eleven (minus Thomas), as they met secretly behind closed doors that Sunday night.

The Gospel’s careful recording of Jesus resurrection appearances, are vital to our faith. If Christ did not rise from the dead, Paul says, then we are still dead in our sins; our faith is useless and so is my preaching. More than that, we’re guilty of lying, if God did not raise Christ from the grave. And those who have died “in Christ” are eternally lost – if Jesus is still dead and buried (1 Corinthians 15:14-19).

But Christ has indeed been resurrected back to life. He lives! Starting on Resurrection Sunday and for the next 40 days, Jesus appeared to His apostles in various circumstances (Acts 1:3). His purpose was to give them irrefutable proof that He had triumphed over death. In 1 Corinthians 15, Paul testifies that the Risen Christ appeared to the Twelve in the Upper Room (not once, but twice) and to five hundred people at one time. Later, Jesus personally confronted Paul on the road to Damascus. Forty days of compelling hands-on experiences in which they saw, heard and touched the Risen Savior –forging within them rock-solid faith & fortitude, to faithfully bear witness to a hostile world that Christ is risen.

Friends, it would be easy to step off the mountaintop we call Easter, and return to “life as normal.” But the Bible challenges us. The Risen Christ invites you and I to not only join Him in His death, burial and resurrection, but to boldly pray for the fullness of His Spirit, so that we might be fearless witnesses to our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ.

Would you join me, in asking God to grant us Holy Spirit boldness in testifying to Jesus? Ask God for divine appointments in people’s lives where we can introduce them to Jesus. In these next 40 days, may we work and pray for a spiritual harvest... “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples.” (John 15:8).

Praying with you Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: March

Heart to Heart

Old Man Winter sent us a little reminder this week, that he isn’t finished yet. But the snow, icy roads and cold can’t cancel the warmth and new life of Spring, that’s just around the corner.

In the same way, death could not hold Christ in the grave, because the resurrection power of God was at work. I’m so grateful there is a season called Easter, when we are reminded that we serve a God, who can bring forth life from death, just like Winter must give way to Spring.

We have been exploring God’s glorious Gospel, of how it’s possible for sinners like us to be made fully acceptable to God. As the apostle Paul reminds us in Romans 1:16, gaining a right standing before God is not about our religious efforts or based on how spiritual we are. The truth is we have nothing to offer Him, beyond our brokenness and spiritual bankruptcy. That reality cements why we all desperately need a Savior.

Here’s the best news ever to a broken, sinful world: God does not want to hold our sins against us. Out of a deep heart of loving compassion, He chose to put in motion a rescue plan that involves His Son and a “righteousness from heaven.” Paul sums up this Gospel in Romans 4:25, where he declares that Jesus was “handed over for our sins, and raised up for our justification.” It’s all about the Cross and the Empty Tomb.

The weeks leading up to Easter are known as the season of Lent. This is a time for laying down things that distract us or keep us from fixing our eyes on Jesus. As we reflect on what Christ did for us, and see how He suffered for us on the Cross, our hearts and souls are more fully prepared to celebrate “Christ crucified” and the glorious news that we can experience “Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

Our hope is not based on the story of a good man who sadly died, but on a Savior who voluntarily took our place and willingly died the death we deserve. As if that wasn’t enough, He then arose from the grave thru the power of the Spirit, triumphing over death on the 3rd day, just as He promised.

We believe that God sent Jesus to save us and that He brought Christ back to life, proving beyond a shadow of a doubt, that the punishment for our sins has been paid in full, once and for all. There’s nothing we need to add to what Jesus has already done – expect to receive this gift of grace by faith.

Faith is choosing to place our lives & eternal future in His nail-scarred hands, trusting that the same power which raised Jesus from the dead, will raise us up too, so that we can be with Christ forever.

May your heart be encouraged, and your faith strengthened, as we move toward Easter. Though our sins are many, He has erased them all and paid the price to set us free. His righteousness has graciously been credited to us, as we place our trust in the Risen Christ. Hallelujah! What a Savior!

Christ triumphed on the Cross, and the tomb is proof that His sacrifice has been fully accepted.

Hallelujah!! What a Savior!! He Is RISEN!!!

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: February

Heart to Heart

Are you up for the Big Game? The weeks leading up to February have been filled with plenty of NFL action NFL, as teams fought hard to advance to the Super Bowl. I know the upcoming game between the Chiefs and the 49ers isn’t what many hoped for (I’m still saying the Vikings should be there), but that’s who we get to watch in Super Bowl LVIII.

Last weekend, I enjoyed a quick conversation with one of our teens. He asked who I was cheering for in the conference championship games. I admitted that I liked the way Patrick was leading the Chiefs. He was all about the Detroit Lions. I let Eric know that when we get to Jersey Sunday, I will let my true colors be seen – and he might be surprised at what he sees.

In case you didn’t know, the Super Bowl isn’t the only football game in town...

All week long, I’ve been seeing pictures from another championship series on my social media feeds. The Lions and the Eagles have all been part of the playoffs. But we’re not talking Philadelphia or Detroit. Because Les Elephants have also been playing, along with the Wild Dogs & Black Mambas, in football stadiums across Cote d’Ivoire. Welcome to the other big football championship series: the Africa Cup. By the way, the Cote d’Ivoire Elephants beat last year’s champions (the Senegal Lions), 5-4 on penalty shots. A fitting nail-biter end for such a high profile game. We will see if they can win the Cup!

While the competition was fierce, and the athletes played with great passion for their country, what I enjoyed the most, was seeing the friendly rivalry between fans. Across Senegal, students and parents dressed in their favorite team colors, and hosted watch parties. Some of our IW’s wore the colors of the Senegal Lions, while others secretly cheered for the Elephants.

I love that kind of friendly rivalry, because at the end of the day, we’re still all family. As believers, we may have favorites sports teams, but we recognize that ultimately we all play for the same team – Team Jesus. In fact, we bear the mark of the Lion on our souls, and we serve the Lion of Judah (our Player-Coach who won the ultimate come-from-behind victory on the Cross). It’s our privilege to not only play for Him, but to invite others to join us on His team.

If you’re tracking with the 40 Days of Prayer, Week 5 focuses on the importance of Family. When we follow Jesus, He makes us part of the Church, His forever family. Last week, Steve from Communio, reminded a number of us that being made in the image of God, means that we are wired by our Creator, to be relational. The Godhead – Father, Son & Holy Spirit – distinct in three Persons and yet entirely One, is all about relationships.

That revelation of the nature of God, helps us map out the game plan Jesus wants His players to follow as we reach our neighbors here in Billings and to the far reaches of the planet, with the Gospel. The key to reaching the next Generation, and especially those who claim to have no interest in “organized religion” is to build genuine, redemptive relationships.

Jesus showed us how – love God with all of who you are (heart, soul, mind and strength), and then let the overflow of that relationship pour the life-giving water of God’s love, into those around us. Would you join Diana and I, as we ask the LORD, to fill us by His Spirit and continue to challenge us to love & serve people in this way. May we not grow wearing of doing good (1 Cor.15:58), but instead lean even more into building meaningful relationships with people that God wants playing for His Team.

Go LIONS!!

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: January

Heart to Heart

Beginnings & ending; open doors and gates; glancing back and looking ahead – all three of these describe what makes January so unique.

Many in our church family would describe the last year (2023) as being a rough one. We experienced so many deaths and the heartache of grief, over and over again. But we also saw new life being birthed amongst us – as 6 children and adults put their trust in the LORD, and the Reifke’s welcomed their first child (shortly after moving to Idaho).

Yes, we saw people we love, moving on to other places and some to other churches. Average attendance dipped to 102 in-person on Sundays, with another 49 watching online. But we also welcomed a number of new people to FAC, and we’re richer for it. Our Griefshare support group not only brought hope to hurting hearts, but the gift of new friendships. As one person put it, “I told my family I’ve got two sisters now that I didn’t have before!” We look forward to seeing those relationships grow even deeper in 2024.

It was hard seeing Kaleb & Katlyn leave FAC early in the Fall, and watching others choose to depart at the same time. But then the LORD brought some new people into our fellowship. We began the search for a new Next Gen/Worship Pastor, as the job description was posted online. In the meantime, we have been praying hard and anticipating God’s timing, to direct us to the person He has been preparing for FAC. God is going to do even MORE in ’24!

One of the joys last year, was watching God supply superabundantly throughout 2023. We ended the year at 103% of budget, and broke $300,000 in General Fund giving. We have been blessed by generous “above & beyond” giving that allowed us to pay off the construction loan with Orchard Alliance, in less than a year. On top of that, we had strong giving to Alliance missions, and sent a 5-person team to Senegal in February. I had the privilege of going back to Africa in November, to lead a prayer retreat for some Alliance IWs. It will be fun to see how God chooses to work thru His people as we plan to send another team to Senegal and visit the other IW team in Africa by year-end. There’s going to be a lot MORE in ’24!

Marketers are savvy people – they know now is the time to promote new diets, gym memberships and sales on exercise equipment. Well, the Scripture says that kind of training is beneficial, but training in godliness is even more crucial (1 Timothy 4:8). That is why I encourage us sign up for the Alliance 40 Days of Prayer (https://40days.cmalliance.org/subscribe). Let’s determine to be people of the Word and of prayer – even MORE in ’24!! The Bible testifies that “they devoted themselves to the apostle’s teaching… and to prayer” – Acts 2:42.

My theme word for 2024 is “Expectant.” I am standing on tip toes, anticipating God doing something that far exceeds our creative thinking or imagination. May we be faithful to extend Help & Hope to the people around us. May we be intentional in seeking to BLESS our neighbors. And may we do all that we can, to complete The Mission to reach the unreached, and to bring back King Jesus in our lifetime.

Let’s believe God for even MORE in ’24!

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: December

Heart to Heart

I love this season, even though the days are short and the darkness covers the hours when I leave for work and before I make my way home. The reason I rejoice, is because of the lights that can be found throughout the city. As I gaze at brightly lit Christmas trees, and the blinking outdoor decorations that light up the darkness, my heart and mind turn towards Jesus.

Isaiah prophesied that the redeemed of the LORD shall return with singing and everlasting joy, because we have “seen the glory of the LORD, the splendor (majesty) of our God” (Isa 35:2). Over 700 years later, the apostle John gave his own personal testimony of having witnessed, that “the Word became flesh and tabernacled amongst us. We have seen His glory, the glory of the One and Only, who came from the Father, full of grace & truth” (1:14).

Jesus Christ, the Light of the world (John 8:12) has come, pushing back the darkness. “In Him was life, and that life was the light of mankind.” Why is the Light needed? Because, as Isa 60:1-3 says, “darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples…” That darkness continues in our generation, as we all seen as both the Jewish & Palestinian people pay a heavy price in the response to the evil that was carried out against Israel on October 7th . Despite the darkness, the Scripture declares that wickedness is unable to overcome or diminish the Light.

So how do we respond to the birth of Jesus in that Bethlehem stable so long ago? Do our hearts shout with heaven’s angels, as they sing “glory to God in the highest, and on earth, peace, toward mankind, those on whom His favor rests” (Lk 2:14)?

Though the world is increasingly hostile to Christ and the Gospel, they love to play Christmas carols at this time of year. Each classic song is seeded with truth, bearing witness to the Savior’s birth. May we, as the followers of Jesus, sing even louder, to the One who volunteered to come, so that He might die in our place and forever remove the sin stain from our souls. May we praise Jesus for all that He has done, so that we might be made right with our heavenly Father.

“The redeemed of the LORD shall… enter Zion with singing; everlasting joy will crown their heads. Gladness and joy will overtake them, and sorrow and sighing will flee away” Isa 35:10.

Lifting up our Songs of Joy, this Christmas season!!

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: November

Heart to Heart

I know the calendar just flipped over from October to November, which means Thanksgiving is just weeks away. For most of us, that’s such a special time of year. Family & friends gather, meals are enjoyed, and people stop to give thanks. Or at least, that’s how it plays out in my head. But sadly, the reality can be far from the truth. In fact, as it says in 2 Timothy 3:2, the terrible times of the last days will be marked by a complete lack of gratitude.

While that may be true in the world around us, it should never be true amongst God’s people. We have so much to be grateful for. The Word urges us express constant thanksgiving - “Rejoice always, pray constantly and give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus, for us (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).

So what are you thankful for today? I’m getting ready to jump on a plane to do ministry on the other side of the world. So my head is already “there”, but my “heart” is full of gratitude here.

I am blessed to be part of such a giving & serving church. I want to say again how good it was to see how well our people served our neighbors last night during our annual Party @ the Patch. Thanks to all who invested so much time, energy and effort into that outreach. Many of our guests expressed their appreciation for providing such a family-friendly, fun, Halloween event.

I am grateful for our Elders & our Governing Board leadership team. FAC has been well-served by these faithful servants of the LORD. Thank you Bruce, Mark, Hans, Sheryl, Mark, Tim, Ron and Del. Add to that, Phil’s partnership in the ministry, and the almost 30 years of ministry that Rita has invested in FAC, and how can we say anything but “praise the LORD!” We are a blessed church!!

THANKS to all of our Childrens, Youth and Adult ministry people. You are making an eternal investment in the hearts & lives of people every week. Thanks to the “Kitchen Ladies” who feed us each week, and to those who serve quietly behind the scenes. You make God smile, as you serve others. Would you join me in expressing thanks to our worship & tech teams, as they pour it out week after week, all year long! Our hearts and souls are richer, because they lead us well in worship. Thank you to all who volunteer and serve alongside our community partners. You are making a significant impact within our city, and we are grateful to the LORD for you!

I want to express a special thanks to Diana and my entire family for the many ways that you serve our FAC family. Stephen, thanks for leading our Tech team – Ashley, I love how you serve with both the Worship team and our Unashamed Youth. Samuel, you make Grandpa proud, as you help me set up the church each weekend, before people show up. Diana, you are such a great partner in life & ministry, and I’m forever grateful! Thanks for the countless hours you’ve invested to care for our people, to prepare slides & sermon outlines for the weekends, and for faithfully serving on the Tech Team. It’s been so good to serve together at FAC these past 7 years, and I look forward to all that God has in store for us in the coming year.

My deepest thanks go to the LORD, for His unfailing love. I am rich beyond measure because of God’s incredible mercy & grace. I have been blessed with the gift of forgiveness & salvation, and delight in hearing the voice of my Savior, saying “this is the way, walk in it.” May the Lord Jesus Christ be exalted, as we celebrate the One who came, extending Hope to each of us.

Join me this month, in deliberately taking time to give thanks each day. May we express our gratitude to the people around us, and chose a lifestyle of “thanksliving”, as we allow the light of Christ to shine through us in this dark, troubled world.

Serving Christ together - Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: October

Heart to Heart

Brace yourself!! Both the calendar and the weather are telling us, Fall has arrived… The leaves are changing colors, the temps are falling, there’s a heavy dew on the grass in the morning, and soon our first frost will arrive. Fall happens to be one of my favorite times of the year, because the air is crisp, the colors are amazing and there are so many wonderful sights to capture with my camera.

I know it has been a bumpy ride stepping into Fall ministries this year. We have a small number of children connecting with our Wednesday EXPLORERS ministry team. Lord willing, we will see that grow as we move further into the Fall. We have invested in some great new teaching material for the children that will be used in both Explorers and in Children’s Church on Sunday mornings.

With Kaleb & Katlyn stepping out, the Unashamed Youth ministry has a different flavor this year. But Pastor Phil continues to help our Unashamed Youth dig deeper into making Jesus their top priority in life. At least a dozen have been coming out each week. On Sunday, I had another student share a video with me, showing them confessing Christ as Lord, and being baptized. Let’s celebrate what Jesus continues to do, in the hearts and lives of our students!

Last Sunday (the 24th) many of us attended the potluck lunch and talked about the next steps being taken in the search for a new associate pastor. You can read a summary of what was said in the Governing Board report later in this newsletter. We also shared about a major paydown we made against the principal of the Orchard Loan. Just 10 months ago, we locked into $56,000 loan, amortized over 20 years at 4.5%. Back in December 2022, we were celebrating having to borrow so little, compared to the $300,000 we thought we would need for Phase 2. Check out the Governing Board report in this newsletter, to see where things stand now on the loan…

Now that October is here, that means it’s Pumpkin Patch time… Wait a minute, we stepped away from that ministry! But we will continue to host our community Party @ The Patch outreach on October 31st (6-8pm). That event always takes a lot of volunteers, and plenty of donated candy to fill the treat bags. Can we count on you? Look for the signup board in the lobby to join the Party team, as we express Christ’s love on our community on Halloween night.

I am so grateful for the faithfulness of our God, and the way in which He has lovingly walked with us through the highs and lows this year. May we give thanks and continue to be amazed by His great love and the undeserved gift of righteousness Christ purchased for us through the Cross!

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: September

Heart to Heart

Are you ready for the Big Reset?

I know Labor Day is that final opportunity to get a camping trip in or head to the lake before shifting into Fall mode. Unless you're an archery hunter, then Labor Day weekend is all about finding that elusive elk. If that’s you, hope you have your rain gear as Monday may be wet…

Here in Billings, school has been in session since Aug 22nd, which means the teachers were back in their classrooms the week before. College students have already gotten a week or two of classes under their belts before Labor Day. But once we hit September 5th, the Big Reset kicks in.

Everyone is preparing to shift into the Fall rhythm of life. That means adjusting sleep schedules, working out sports and school activities, and being reminded that church ministries are kicking off too. LIFE groups are restarting, Explorers for children and Unashamed Youth are both launching Fall ministries on Sept 6th . The first Women’s Ministry event (Rise Up) is scheduled for Sept 9th . So there's a lot that begins to happen immediately after Labor Day.

We remind ourselves too, that the call to BLESS our neighbors continues. We want to begin with praying for them, listening carefully to their stories and sharing meals together. We will come alongside our neighbors to serve them and then share our faith stories with them. May we continue to lean into Abraham’s and our calling (Genesis 12) to bring the BLESSing of the Messiah, to our lost and broken world. BLESS your neighbors – it’s the lifestyle Jesus calls us to.

This Fall will include several significant changes for FAC. Kaleb will conclude his ministry with us on Sept.10th. While we will miss he and Katlyn, their absence means opportunity for others to step up and lean into the ministry gaps they leave behind. An all-church potluck lunch on Sept.24th will be your opportunity to hear how the Governing Board will proceed in searching for a new pastoral staff member. We will also be sharing some exciting news about our Phase 2 loan with Orchard.

Diana and I are gone over Labor Day, to be with our parents up in Canada. We look forward to stepping back into the Big Reset when we return. May we as a church, continue to pray and labor for the sake of the Gospel this Fall, as we work hard to bring back the KING!

Grateful for God’s amazing grace – Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: August

Heart to Heart

This has been an unusual year for FAC. I hope that you’ve appreciated God’s kindness to us, in bringing so many of our Alliance IWs to FAC over these past 9 months.

Just think back with me who we’ve seen. Back in in late October 2022 – Mike from Senegal shared his heart concerning the work in St Louis. His message and stories were so timely, as Team Senegal was gearing up for our February 2023 trip, that had us working alongside Mike’s colleagues in Senegal. Then, in early May, we enjoyed connecting with Tim & Penny who serve on the opposite side of the world, in the Asia region. A month later, the Erickson family stayed with us for a week (right after Council in Spokane – where FAC hosted a meal for over 15 people tied to our partnership ministry in West Africa). It was awesome to connect with Josh & Heather, along with their children. Last month, we enjoyed brief visits with the extended Douglas family, several of whom serve with the Canadian Alliance in the Asia region. And now, we are hosting Andre & Kate, a CAMA couple (along with their two young children) who also serve in the Asia region.

Friends, that’s blessing on top of blessing!! We have been reminding ourselves that God has called us as His people, to be a channel of BLESSING to the nations – Genesis 12:3. The 5 things that we can do to BLESS our neighbors, is how our IW friends are living out their calling - “Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples.” Psalm 96:3

Think of the added blessing FAC has enjoyed these past months. These devoted servants of the LORD have helped us to hear God’s heartbeat for the nations - His desire to reach all peoples with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. While they visit with us, we heard their stories of how they came to faith in Christ, and how the LORD called them to serve as IWs. As they talk about their life and ministry, we hear stories of how other people have come to faith and have been marvelously transformed by the power of Christ. Through our IWs, we have also gained a clearer picture of what God is doing through our larger Alliance family.

Another blessing has been to have a two-way relationship established with our partners in West Africa. We have served alongside them where they serve, and now they’ve come to FAC and seen where we live and serve. We also believe that God is talking to hearts of who might go in the Fall of 2024, when our next team heads for Senegal.

I hope this encourages your hearts as it does mine, and that the Holy Spirit continues to stir us to pray earnestly, to give generously to Alliance missions, and to even say with Isaiah, “here am I, send me!”

Grateful for God’s kindness to us – Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: July

Heart to Heart

Jesus noted the tired looks on his disciple’s faces. They were running so hard, there was no time to eat. And the needs of the crowds just continued to grow. It was right in the midst of an intense ministry season, that Jesus said, “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.” (Mark 6:31). As one wag put it, Jesus’ words were to “come apart with me” before you completely “come apart.”

We’re in July now, and there are all kinds of trips being taken and others being planned. Some involve family reunions, while others are to break away from work and find a quiet spot to retreat. What all of them have in common, is the desire to “get some rest.” As you read this newsletter, Diana and I are on the road and in pursuit of some rest, ourselves. We may even be a living example of Jesus’ observation that the needs of the crowd were overwhelming the disciples to the point of exhaustion. Rest is something all of us need, although what that looks like is as different as there are people.

Last Saturday’s hike and my personal time up in the Beartooths the day before, both helped to charge my batteries. I need those times in the mountains and taking in the majestic vistas, to let some of the weight and burden of ministry fall off my shoulders. Capturing some of those images on my camera, helps me to go back for some “micro-vacations” as I take a few moments to enjoy that landscape photo and am reminded of how restful that place was.

While hiking with our people and the Ericksons on top of the Bighorn Mtns last weekend, I captured this shot. It speaks volumes to me. This trail has both people and vehicles using it. The message is the same for both – hurry up and slow down. When you move at a slower speed, you catch more of the scenery, and your soul has a chance to be refreshed.

God invites us to slow down and sit at His feet, drinking in the living water of His Word. “In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength” (Isa.30:15). When burdens are laid down, and we choose to pull in tandem with Jesus, He promises refreshing and rest for our souls (Matthew 11:28-29). The weariness and weight of life in a broken world, will be replaced by the joy of having the LORD carry those things for us.

Paradise Falls is definitely a top 3 on my list of places I want to go to again this summer. The stream turns into a series of small waterfalls and pools of water, with a rock slide. Across the way are large granite spires, and a beautiful misty waterfall (Paradise Falls). I could sit there for hours – and hope to in the near future.

In the meantime, we are following Jesus’ instructions in retreating with Him, and as we do, finding rest for our weary souls. We have been praying for your vacation travel, and would appreciate it if you would pray for ours. Lord willing, when we show up again on the 12th, you’ll be able to tell that we’ve spent some great time with the LORD, with family & friends, and we’ve come home refreshed.

Joyfully serving the LORD with you,

Pastor A & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: June

Heart to Heart

It’s June, and school is about over. The students are getting antsy & can’t wait for summer break to start. Wise teachers plan field trips and sports days. Last week, I had the privilege of volunteering with Ms Bell’s 2nd grade class at Central Heights Elementary for some year-end activities.

I spent an enjoyable couple of hours with my reading students at Zoo Montana. It was a blue-sky day, and the students got to see some rather unique things. There was plenty of laughter and a few groans we “just keep walking”. But the tigers were out where we could see them, and we watched both grizzly bears foraging for food, right in front of us. Then the bald eagles put on a show. But the highlight for me, was having 2 different students pull out their “Africa” gift out of their backpacks. They still remember Roary (the class stuffed lion) and his trip to Senegal with me. I’m grateful that has been such a memorable thing to them.

I also got to take the class on a couple hours of sports activities on their Field Day. We laughed together and competed at trying to capture the flag. Later, I coached them in “tug-of-war”. I may have even helped several girl’s teams, take on the boys and win… It was a great way to wrap up our year together. I left them with a variety of pictures of Roary in Africa, and a challenge to keep reading through the summer.

Why am I sharing all this with you? Because we’re about to jump into the summer months, when we do different types of activities from the rest of the year. Those are activities that you’re going to want to be part of.

Don’t miss the opportunity to engage in the Grill & Chill BBQs or to try out one of the hikes in the nearby mountains. It’s not just an event – it’s a relationship building opportunity to strengthen ties, that create a sense of oneness & community together. Let’s be intentional at engaging, as we help each other grow deeper in our walk with Jesus.

If you have a desire to learn how to share your faith, we will be teaching on personal evangelism during the 9am Adult Bible Class, starting June 4th . Jump in and put some super helpful tools in your faith toolbox.

And don’t forget to explore a community partnership to be a part of. Our partnership with Central Heights Elementary pauses over the summer, but the anticipation is already building for what next Fall will look like. We have 8 different community partnerships for you to explore. Check out the Community Partnership board in the lobby for more information.

I am looking forward to these summer months, and trust that you are too. May we continue to offer help and hope to our community, even as we live out our faith all summer long.

Joyfully serving the LORD with you,

Pastor A & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: May

Heart to Heart

It’s a glorious May Day, as I sit down to write this newsletter. Blue skies, green grass, trees leafing out, and the sights & sounds of new life are all around us.

I love spring weather, when we see the dead leaves and brown lawns transformed by April showers with their life-giving water which nurtures the May flower gardens. It’s invigorating to feel the warmth of the sunshine, and to see fresh growth in every direction, as garden perennials and bushes burst into new life. What a great picture our God paints, of what He wants to do for each of us spiritually.

I know that we live in a fallen, broken world and that we will have our share of troubles & hardships. But what gives us eternal encouragement and good hope (2 Thess.2:16) is the knowledge that Christ has overcome the world. He died on the Cross to pay the penalty for our sins, and rose again as God’s victory shout that death is defeated and sin’s dominion over mankind is over. These truths fuel our hope and put courage within us to keep fighting to do what’s right, no matter what. To that end, the apostle Paul prays for believers in a local church, to “be encouraged, and strengthened for every good deed and word” (v.17).

So, as you head out to sports events, put the boat in the water and make those first casts with your fishing pole, or enjoy planting your garden, may you see fresh reminders of God’s faithful love. May this be a month of gentle Holy Spirit rain showers, that nurture the Christ life within you. And may you also experience His fire from heaven, igniting fresh passion for the lost. Pray for a fresh infilling of His Spirit – over and over again. Do it again, LORD, just like you did at Pentecost!

Joyfully serving the LORD together with you,

Pastor A & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: April

Heart to Heart

As I write this month’s newsletter, we are just days away from Palm Sunday which in the church world kicks off Holy Week, leading to Good Friday and then culminating with Resurrection Sunday. In other words, Easter is right around the corner.

I find myself wondering again what people outside the church think of Easter. Businesses try to make the most of the season with their Easter lily sales, along with the Easter baskets filled with chocolate bunnies & foil-wrapped eggs. Schools typically choose to remain neutral, going for a “spring celebration” theme.

I know here in Billings, as in so many other places, thousands of kids and their parents will head to one of the Easter Egg Hunts hosted by churches & other groups. From a kid’s perspective, Easter becomes all about gathering as many eggs as possible, so you can enjoy weeks of free candy. If you’re a dentist or work at the dentist office, you know there will be a sharp uptick in activity in the near future.

A good number of people still realize that churches often put on special programs during Easter. There will be big music cantatas accompanied by dramas or a series of gripping mini movies put up on the screen. Some churches will host “sunrise services” in places like the Rimrocks (which often means dealing with the cold and spring snow showers). Many churches like ours, will offer Easter brunches before or after the Sunday service. According to Barna, fewer people will plan to spontaneously “go to church” on Easter, but they will still come, if we invite them as our guests (hint: who are you giving your Easter invite cards to?).

And what about those of us within the church. What has Easter become in our hearts and lives?

I pray that at FAC, we will continue to make this season all about the Lord Jesus Christ. May we take time to reflect on the greatness of our Father’s love for a lost, broken, dying world – and Jesus’ wiliness to volunteer for the mission to come and save us. May our hearts marvel at Jesus’ humility and obedience – as He came not to be served, but to serve and offer His life as a ransom for many.

My hope is that we would rehearse in our heart, the steps Jesus took that led to the Cross. Ponder the pain of His betrayal as he shared a final Passover with His disciples. Remember how He was abandoned in the Garden, before being led away to be unjustly accused. May we weep at the injustice and brutality He experienced in our place. May we stand in awe as He allowed His life to become the exchange for Barabbas’ life. May our hearts bow in reverence & awe, as we hear the crucified Christ plead to the Father for our forgiveness, and then declare the penalty of sin paid in full for all time & eternity. May we linger at the Cross, as Christ died the death we deserve.

Then may we approach anticipation Easter Sunday, when the empty tomb was discovered. May our hearts be filled with joy that death could not hold Jesus, but that He triumphed and forever broke the power of death & sin. May our hearts leap at the news, “He is Risen!” May our voices shout out “He is Risen indeed! Our Savior, lives!!”

Beloved, Easter commemorates the greatest day ever!! Because on that glorious resurrection morning, the Risen Christ became living proof that God’s grace saves. Forgiveness has been extended. Our sin debt, cancelled. Christ’s righteousness applied. Eternal life purchased. Rebels reconciled & reunited with our heavenly Father. We are now fully accepted. Adopted as His sons and daughters. Welcomed in His presence. Gifted with the Holy Spirit. Infused with the hope of glory. All thru the precious blood of the Lord Jesus Christ, shed on the Cross. Our Passover Lamb was slain, and then on the 3rd day raised back to life. He lives forevermore!! He is the very Son of God, our Savior. All praise and honor, glory and power to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! May we join with all heaven, in that Hallelujah song of praise.

This is Easter. This is the glorious Good News. And this is what you and I are to communicate to those around us.

May we be faithful to point people to Jesus. We proclaim Him!

Grateful to offer Help & Hope together – Pastor A & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: March

Heart to Heart

Seven time zones, over 17,000 miles flown, 6 flights with multiple disruptions on the trip over to Dakar, but a much smoother ride on the way back (via Paris). Friends, it’s no small thing to take a team to West Africa!

But the trip was so worth the effort!! Phil, Bruce, Keaton, Gabi & I are so much richer and blessed, for having gone. We got to see our amazing IW teams in action, and our appreciation for them just grew even more. At the same time, we built new relationships with our national Senegalese brothers & sisters, that we trust will grow over time and strengthen this partnership. Another highlight of the trip was being able to spend time with the “MKs” (missionary kids). If you think raising kids is challenging here in the States, try another culture, with two other languages beyond your heart language, and the daunting task of helping your kids navigate how to live for Christ, in a place where the dominant religion is often hostile toward your faith.

I can assure you, however, that the Senegalese people we met and spent time with (whether they were Christians or “cousins”), were amazingly hospitable and very gracious to us. We enjoyed awesome meals, experienced many memorable “cultural moments”, and often found ourselves laughing at ourselves as we tried to remember the right word to say – Wow – wow!

We ministered to our IWs at a Retreat Night, early in our time there. We also got our hands dirty, helping build and weld a water tower for the Sport Center (for the village outreach), serving alongside our IWs in the Talibe ministry, had team members provide wound care, blood pressure tests, and encouragement to those who serve at the Girl’s Center. Phil taught some basic mechanic skills to the students at the Boy’s Center, and Pastor Adriaan & Bruce shared God’s Word with them before their class started. Once we drove back to Dakar, the guys got a fishing trip in with men from the Fishing Village, and we got a much more detailed picture of the challenges facing that group of people. On Sunday, Pastor Phil spoke (in French) at a Senegalese church, and brought a great message on Hope from Romans 15:13.

Sunday afternoon, we enjoyed a photo safari to the Bandia Game Preserve. On Monday, we ventured into downtown Dakar in search of souvenirs and had a great lunch at a place connected to someone who took a leadership seminar from other Alliance IWs. Then it was time for another adventure as we made our way to the airport and got ready for the long flight home.

We are committed to nurturing this global partnership, and look forward to having other people join future teams, as we continue to invest in what God is doing in West Africa.

Grateful to be teamed together with you – Pastor A <><

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FAC Family News: February

Heart to Heart

I’m sitting at my desk, writing this newsletter, knowing I’m already a few days late. Sorry about that, but my tired mind and body are reminding me how demanding last month was.

On the one hand, we experienced a series of deep losses within our FAC family, as first Sherri and then Allene, stepped into eternity. The difficult circumstances of Sherri’s death weighed heavily on everyone. I’m so grateful though, for the way our FAC family stepped up to help with the search, to provide meals, and to pray for Dallas and his family. You have lived out our vision statement well, to be “a church where help and hope” can be experienced, as we serve sacrificially!

At the same time, we were ministering comfort & care to Jeff & Nola, as he continues to battle terminal cancer. We also supported the Reiter family, as Allene came down with severe pneumonia and was placed first in the ICU at St V’s, and then moved to the Advanced Care hospital. She finished her race of faith on January 31st. Allene’s Memorial Service will be Feb.13th @ 11am.

I say all this, to express what so many of us are feeling. The deep sadness and weight that comes from losing people we love. We feel both the heartache and the emptiness when a friend & loved one is taken by death. But once again, we’ve found comfort in the Lord Jesus, who draws us close and bears our burdens. We believe and declare that Christ is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble (Ps 46:1). Loss & heartache do not overwhelm us; we aren’t crushed by our raw emotions, even though it can feel like our whole world has been turned upside down. The Psalmist reminds us, “the LORD Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress” v.7. He can help our tears to dance.

In the midst of these losses, we have also been running hard to prepare for Team Senegal’s trip to West Africa. We have an awesome team of 5 (Phil, Bruce, Keaton, Gabi and yours truly), who are collecting gifts, tools and medical supplies to take with us. Our funding is all in place. We fly out early Friday morning, on Feb. 17th.

We are excited to join our Alliance IW in the global work of “making disciples.” As soon as we land in Dakar, we will drive up-country to SL. We anticipate assisting with a new Mechanic’s School, and serving a new group of Talibe boys (who live on the streets), at the national church’s Boy’s Center. We will also engage with a nearby Girls School, and get to know the Pastor and people of a local Wolof church. Later, we will drive back to Dakar to join the McCabes & DeVrooms (CAMA workers) and join them in ministering to some of the most vulnerable (unreached) people in Senegal.

As we go, would you lift us up in prayer? You can sign up to pray while we are gone, at the lunch on Feb.5th. We are looking for people to pray daily for Team Senegal and have specific things we’re asking prayer for. If you need more information or have questions, talk with Lynn Sloan.

Our mission’s goal is to become a “glocal church”. “What in the world is that,” you might ask? A glocal church loves and ministers Christ to its own community, while simultaneously joining international workers to show and tell of Jesus’ love to the unreached in our world.

May our hearts & souls be renewed this month, as we invite Jesus to lift our burdens & sorrows, with the comfort of His great love. May we also seek Holy Spirit power, to enable us to effective point others to Christ, and see a spiritual harvest as we run the race of faith.

Grateful for your partnership in the Gospel,

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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FAC Family News: January

Heart to Heart

For most of us, December 25th marks the end of Christmas, and now it’s time to race into the new year. But truth be told, Christmas Day actually brings the Advent season to a close, but there’s still 12 more days to Christmas. That’s more than a catch phrase for a song. If you study a church calendar, you will discover that January 6th is when many within the orthodox Church, count as their Christmas day.

So why draw attention to this? Because I want to invite you to savor all of Christmas, and not miss out on the heavenly fragrance that accompanies the longer Christmas story. Dr. Luke certainly saw Christ’s coming in those terms, as he sandwich’s Jesus’ birth account with the testimony of two aged saints. The Christmas story included circumcision & a naming ceremony of the newborn child on the 8th day (Luke 2:21). Then, 40 days later, when Mary’s time of ceremonial purification had come to an end, the young couple took their 1 1/2 month old to the Temple, so that baby Jesus might be dedicated to the LORD, in accordance to the law (Luke 2:22-24). Having few financial resources, Joseph and Mary provided the sacrifice required – 2 doves.

Only then are we introduced to the final two people who play such a key role in confirming the identity of Jesus as the Christ. Simeon & Anna – people passionate for God and earnestly doing everything in their power, to help bring about the coming of the Christ.

Simeon is a man in tune with the Spirit, who has been given God’s promise that before he dies, he will physically see the Christ. And thru the nudging of the Spirit, Simeon’s walk thru the Temple courts that day, cause him to providentially meet Mary & Joseph as they come with baby Jesus. The Spirit opens Simeon’s eyes to see in this newborn baby, the living Hope of God’s Messiah. Finally, his one box bucket list can be checked off. “My eyes have seen your salvation...!” 2:29.

Anna is doing what she’s done for decades: investing her life in worship, fasting and prayer as she waits for God to console Israel by sending His Christ (2:37). She finds herself in the right place at the right time, to hear Simeon’s words of blessing & prayer. Imagine if Anna had decided not to go to the Temple that day, because her bones ached or she felt tired... What a missed opportunity that would have been.

Instead, Anna adds her prophetic voice to Simeon’s prayer, and celebrates God’s goodness in sending the Messiah. She spreads the news to others who shared in this blessed hope.

Beloved, is that not what God has for you and I in 2023? To be faithful in praying for Christ to come again, and doing our part to spread the Gospel to those who are still lost without Jesus? We too live in the shadow of His coming – His 2nd coming.

May we do our part, to pray and to spread the news about the Lord Jesus Christ. May we have the joy of seeing many in 2023, experience the miracle of Christmas, when Christ is born within their hearts. Let message and ministry of Christmas, continue throughout this new year!

Joyfully partnering with you,

Pastor Adriaan & Diana <><

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