So much has happened since our last update. Let me begin by saying that God has been so faithful. We did not know what to expect as far as what kind of response we would have during this season with so much discouraging news from our economy. However, if things continue to go the way they have been the last few weeks, we should exceed our expectations. A few examples:

Ø This year’s banquet was our largest to date. The response from those in attendance was our largest yet.

Ø The Kenyans that came over have been a blessing everywhere we have gone. Thank you so much for such a wonderful embrace you have given them. They have returned so blessed and their lives will never be the same. It was a great joy to see how God blessed them and to watch their responses to being in America. They each have written a paragraph about their visit. It is copied below.

Ø Ready for the container so far: Over 60 computers, 600 Strong Concordances (new), 200 Commentaries(new), 480 NIV Bibles (new), 480 Amplified (new), 340 NKJV Bibles (new), 10,000 Kenneth Hagin mini books (13 different titles), over 100 wood folding chairs, 45 metal folding arm desk chairs, almost 200 boxes of Bible and books (thanks Barbara), self propelled lawn mower (new), guitars, sound equipment and so many other things and we are not done. A truck is coming from Miss. and La. 2 days after Christmas as well as a trailer of things from south Texas. PTL!

Ø It looks like we will be sending a 40ft. container rather than a 20 ft. as so much has been given. If you have things to donate, please have them at the warehouse by Jan. 5. We are loading the container on Tuesday, January 7^th from 10:00AM. We could use anyone that is free at that time to help us.

Debbie and I would like to wish each of you a Happy Holiday season! Remember, Jesus has already provided the greatest bailout of all times, 2000 years ago. Therefore, your investments are not only safe but have been producing with great interest.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year,

The Mathenys

PS: If you have not seen the 2008 video update, you can see it HERE

Hello Partners,

Oh, what a wonderful life-changing experience I’ve had being in your wonderful, great and blessed nation. From the day I arrived to the very end, I have been overwhelmed with the care, concern, love, hospitality, genuineness and joy by which I was received with in every place and every family I stayed . I’ve been to 3 different countries in Africa and in the past and came back having lost a few pounds. But to my amazement not only have I been blessed with things for my family and the church but I have also added 20 pounds to my weight. It’s all due to such excellent friends. I look forward to seeing the blessings of the God flooding your offices, businesses and families. May you continue dwelling in His everlasting glory. Amen! Gerishon Arum

I would like to use a few lines to express my appreciation and gratitude to all the family ,friends and partners of Ronnie and Debbie Matheny, for the special and very fulfilling time I have had in my visit to you here in the United States. I would like to say that my visit here has been very refreshing and eye-opening to the great potential that exists within Africa, and so I return to Kenya with a renewed vision and passion to reach the nations. I believe God is fixing to expand our territory and give us the nations of Africa. The Lord has opened my eyes to clearly see the big picture. I am greatly thankful to the great church family here and all the members who have made my life here very, very pleasant and I am at a loss of words to describe how wonderful it has been to visit with you all. It was great to be at Fusion, Cedar Lake Christian Assembly and Gateway churches to experience the refreshing presence of God. Everyone has been exceptionally welcoming to me and abundantly generous in offering support and help. I have been deeply touched by the generosity extended to me by my hosts, Travis and Lori and their family, together with Brian and Karen Gainey.( My first ever Thanks giving experience had Three Turkeys - awesome). And to the friends and family in Mississippi, Pastor Murphy and Twila and their family and Buck and Janet, I say a big thank you. I am also exceedingly grateful to the church family out in Meridian Mississippi meeting at David and Nancee Greer’s. The Lord used you greatly to cement and anchor me in this new place of ministry He has given me. I also would like to especially thank the Mission Barnabas Board for their incredible support and encouragement I have received during this trip I am returning to Kenya full of passion, and focused on the task that is ahead of us in 2009. This coming year will be our most fruitful year as a ministry. Joel Chola

Partners:

It has been a blessing to see the goodness of the Lord through the people who give so much in all ways to ensure we accomplish the mission of God. I am going home encouraged, challenged and inspired to accomplish what we are called to do. Mission Barnabas is good ground; watch and see. Sow more and give more. Jerry Oliech

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