Paying It Forward
When Gethsemane Home was established 15 years ago, we had always hoped that when children left the home as young adults, that they would eventually give back for what had been done for them. Sunida is definitely an example of this. She is living in Bangkok and playing for the Thailand National Cricket team. Whenever she has a break, she finds the time to visit Gethsemane Home.
Recently she returned and paid for a meal for everyone at Full Basket and also paid for a moo-kata at the home. Thank you, Sunida, for your kind heart and doing what you can to give back.
Gethsemane Children
One of the main reasons we make it a priority to travel to Thailand each year is to reconnect with the children at Gethsemane Home. Even with the language barrier, we love spending time with them. This time we were able to take them to a movie and also made a stop for ice cream. A meal at Full Basket with pizza and ribs is always on our agenda. We’re so proud of them as they are also beginning to take on roles in the church. Sunida, Wanchai, and Thiti also made visits to the home while we were there. Our trip ended attending Amee and Alei’s graduation from middle school. We cannot believe they’ll start high school in May!
A Day at Santisuk
Last year the Santisuk Bible Training Center reopened, and we were given an open invitation to come and teach anytime we could. So, on the morning of February 18th, Titus, Mike Flinchum, and Steve left Gethsemane Home and headed to the school. The approximately 2 hour drive north allowed them to arrive at the school around 9:30 am.
Mike taught in the morning using 1 Timothy 4:12 as his main text. Lunch was then served using chicken and rice that Titus and Newa had provided, along with vegetables the students had grown. After lunch there was discussion on the needs and future plans for the training center. In the afternoon session Steve spoke on the authority of Christ and the example of boldness shown by the disciples in Acts 3 and 4. There were 20 students in attendance along with the faculty and some villagers from the area. It is exciting to witness the growth of these students, and we look forward to our next visit.
Antioch Leadership Seminar
Teaching is a necessary and valuable part of life. In the Great Commission Jesus said to “go and make disciples… teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” One of the goals we strive for each year is to hold a Bible seminar at Antioch Church for church leaders. This year around 50 people from 22 different churches attended the 2-day training held on February 9th and 10th. Speakers this year were Joni Morse, Mike Flinchum, and Steve Sherry. Under the Son Ministries was able to make this event possible by providing money for food and suppling housing for those attending. Plans are already being made for next year.
Fundraising Events
Our fundraising season has begun. We were happy for the down time we had from late December through March. We will be participating in the Spring Craft Fair this year at the Maryville Community Center on Saturday, April 18th. We will have new
Spring products and some new items from Thailand available. The hours will be 9 am to 2 pm.
At this time, we are taking pre-orders for geraniums. These will be delivered to our house on May 7th. We still have red and crimson colors available. If you are wanting to order any, please contact us soon by calling 660-254-5775 or 660-254-8487. They are going quickly!
Our first Pop-up Shop for the year will also be during geranium delivery from May 7th through May 10th. Check out our Wonderfully Made Facebook page for upcoming dates of fundraising events. Thank you for your continued support!
