PISTOIA, ITALY
September 2010
Ah, Fall! The leaves will start changing soon and the coolness of the morning and evening are so enjoyable! This is the time of year that we appreciate so much, especially the opportunities we have to resume our schedules and reunite with church family and friends who have been away on holiday.
Church Activities
It has been pretty hectic since returning at the end of August. We have had several weeks when almost every night, one or both of us have been out of the house from about 8:30 to midnight. The busy schedule sure makes time fly, but we'll try to keep on top of our newsletters and keep you all informed of what is going on.
Our midweek studies started the week after we returned and we have had many moments of encouragement. The topics we have covered began with Respect for God, Respect for HIS Word, and Respect for the brethren. Obviously, each topic could be an entire series, but we've briefly hit each one moving forward with how we as Christians ought to live and how we can discipline ourselves to improve.
Some of the high points have been visitors who have participated in the studies and consequently also come to worship. Massimo is one who lives down the street from the church building, having moved to Pistoia about 8 months ago. He has very complicated life circumstances, but has expressed a desire to learn more and be more involved.
Our other regular visitor, Antonio, came as a result of a one of the members of the congregation, Sergio, distributing some fliers at a park while he and his wife were out for a walk. Antonio is also demonstrating a desire to learn. For both of these visitors, we are grateful for their presence and pray for their continued interest and fertile hearts to receive God's word.
Children's classes resumed, along with a new format. The kids now say their memory verse with the church before the services begin. This allows the members to participate with the children in memorizing verses and encourages the children as well.
Other Activities
Our weekends have also been quite full with three meetings on consecutive weekends. First, I was invited to a weekend with 8 other church workers from around Italy. The following weekend was the ladies turn to spend together. And finally, 10 other preachers and myself were present in Florence for a weekend discussing some topics which have come up in a number of the Italian congregations. These weekends have taken a toll on our budget, but we thought it important to participate in each of these events.
Family News
Noah and Elaina started school and Heather has been enjoying the quiet, at least in the mornings. Noah had been complaining about starting school again, telling us how much he hated it, but when the first day of school arrived, he informed us that he had changed his mind and now he liked it. Of course, when he arrived home from school on the following day with 23 pages of work that wasn't completed during the previous year, he soon lost some of the thrill again. It seems the teacher was trying to re-familiarize Noah with the finer points of homework! Elaina started school without any problems. She was excited to go and see her teachers and friends again, and even left our sides on the first day without tears. We count that a true blessing. Although Elaina has improved her communication quite a bit this summer, she started speech therapy this month. The therapist confirmed what we already knew: Elaina is intelligent and can follow complex instructions, but has difficulty forming sentences and words. At this point, the therapist will continue to evaluate her before recommending a more focused speech therapy program. We will wait to see how she progresses over the next two months and, if a significant difference is not seen, we will get a referral to Meyers Hospital, one of the top children's hospitals here in Europe.
Prayer Request
In the past we have asked for prayers on behalf of our sister Silvia, and she has been doing quite well. However, a few weeks ago she was readmitted to the hospital due to difficulty breathing. The family and doctors were worried that she developed another blood clot, but found that her previous clot had not completely dissolved. The doctors gave good news that this was not serious and just a matter of the level of medication, however now there is the task of diagnosing why she is having a clotting problem again. Please pray for Silvia and her doctors, that they can find the issue and resolve it quickly.
During the summer we commented on the new life coming into the church. We ask for prayers on behalf of the two expecting mothers, especially on behalf of Barbara. She was admitted into the hospital a couple of weeks ago due to premature labor. Her placenta is separating from the uterus wall, and she still has three months to go for a full-term delivery. The doctors stopped her labor and sent her home with strict instructions for bed rest. Pray that her pregnancy can continue without problems.
Finally, we ask for prayers on behalf of Elaina's progress in speech therapy, and for our patience during this process.
Closing
We thank you all for the prayers you offer on our behalf and on behalf of the church here in Pistoia. The prayers of the righteous are powerful and effective! Know that you are making a difference in our work for Christ's kingdom.
In Christ,
Roger, Heather, Noah, and Elaina Mahan
rogermahan@juno.com
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Monday, June 14, 2010
March - May 2010
Greetings once again from Pistoia. We pray that all is well with you as it is with us.
Spring has taken a long time to get here and even now it seems to be retreating once again. It has been an interesting last 6 months weather-wise. We appreciate all the prayers and concern expressed regarding the volcanic cloud that was troubling much of Europe. The first major cloud passed to the north of us without any concern for our area. The second evidently passed over us and caused delays at the airports but again, we were not effected.
Update on Silvia
Before moving on to the update of what we have been doing, I wanted thank everyone for their prayers for Silvia Seminara. She was baptized years ago but recently returned to worship, even though she has been attending the midweek studies regularly for quite some time. As happens often, when we start trying to align our lives according to God's will, we find ourselves facing trials. Silvia was admitted to the hospital in Pistoia and was diagnosed with a thrombosis of between 7 and 10 centimeters. After more than a month in the hospital and a couple of episodes where portions of the clot broke off, the clot had reduced to 3 centimeters and several weeks ago she was sent home. Last week she had another check-up and the clot is completely gone. We praise God for protecting her throughout the treatment and it has been amazing to see the strength with which Silvia faced and overcame this trial.
Travel to the US
Hoping that summer will eventually arrive, we have been making preparations for our visit to the US this summer. Tickets have been purchased and while we paid less than two years ago, it is quite an investment. We look forward to seeing many of you while there. We still have dates available for presentations if anyone would be interested in hearing about the work in Pistoia. We will be in Minnesota for the month of July and in Texas for the end of June and beginning of August.
Villetri
For 30 years, the churches of Christ in Italy have held an annual retreat/meeting near Rome. This year was our first opportunity to attend as a family for the full weekend and we were incredibly blessed to have been there. We must thank our sponsoring congregation for making this possible as the cost has been restrictive for us in past years. The theme was “On the way to Faith” and among the speakers was James Woodruff. We were also able to meet for the first time Howard Bibee. He came to Italy 60 years ago and lived here for many years before moving back to the US. The Italian brethren were very encouraged by his presence. Also encouraging was the time that is typically set aside for each congregation represented to “quickly” give a report. The church in Italy has a beautiful sense of the importance of their sister congregations knowing also the great effort that it took to establish each congregation. That being the case, they are always interested in knowing how their brethren are doing.
Invitation from Florence
The last weekend of August is usually reserved by the church in Florence for a conference and this year will be no different. I was very pleased and encouraged to receive an invitation to participate as one of the speakers at this event. It would be the first time that I have been officially invited to participate as a speaker outside of our congregation, however due to work that will be done to the building, the conference has been postponed until next year. The invitation was nonetheless very meaningful for me as it serves as verification, at least for me, of having been accepted by our neighboring congregations and being considered capable of communicating God's word in Italian.
Midweek studies
Our midweek studies hit a bit of a snag during the period when Silvia was in the hospital. I have not been able to put my finger on the exact correlation, but we had been studying unity and how the church is made of every member. Every member has responsibility and influence upon the rest of the congregation whether or not it is realized. As Paul wrote in I Corinthians 12:26 - “if one part suffers every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.” Perhaps this snag, was a demonstration of how we had put into practice this sentiment for our sister, Silvia. This study has been part of a curriculum to help prepare us for how we will move forward as a congregation in all our efforts, activities, and in setting our overall focus.
For the remaining time before our summer break, we have been studying the letters to the seven churches in Revelation. In these letters Jesus gives an evaluation of the seven churches in Asia. We are attempting to benefit from these evaluations while looking at how we can move continually closer to what God wants us to be. The day before our departure will be the last of these studies, and the congregation will be challenged to consider what Jesus might write to us. What might he say about our strengths, and our weaknesses?
Outreach
We have been involved in a few forms of outreach recently. Some of it is indirect while other types are more direct and to the point. We have begun a collection of non-perishable foods which we will divide into packages in September. Invitations will be printed and delivered to locations where people may normally seek assistance. The invitation will be to our building on a particular day when they may pick up a package which will contain non-perishable food items and a Bible. It will also give us a direct contact with those we are hoping to help.
Fellowship Meal
Much of our work is dependent upon having some level of credibility. This often takes time as many are skeptical of religion (especially non-Catholic religions). Being a foreigner can also add to the reluctance to listen to the message we are trying to convey. With these being the case, spending time with others in settings where they see the consistency between what we say and what we do, is a necessity. Our fellowship meals provide such an opportunity. Since we have been preparing for furlough, a fellowship meal was planned for our last Sunday before departure. One of the families from the community with whom we have a good attended as well as one of the ladies who also participates in the “Pistoia International Choir”. Her presence was a very pleasant surprise and we pray that more opportunities will arise in the future.
Family News
Our family is doing well. Many of you know that we have been seeking some help for Elaina regarding her ability to communicate. We were finally able to get her into the children's psychiatrist for assessment to see whether or not a speech therapist would be beneficial for her. The psychiatrist said that Elaina has no problems with understanding, and that is a huge blessing. Right now, Elaina lacks expressive language skills and her form of communication is usually one or two words, rather than entire phrases or sentences like other children her age. Elaina has been officially put on the waiting list for a speech therapist and will begin when we return from the US, as school begins. Noah has been improving in school and, as most kids his age, is already looking forward to a summer without school and homework. However, we're not sure how to break the news to him that Italian schools assign summer homework. Heather has continued with her Italian classes and has been busy trying to keep up with her contacts from the kids' old and new schools, as well as making time to meet individually with the ladies in the church here in Pistoia. As for me, when the weather is nice, I am trying to get in some time on the bike before my slow down in the States.
As was said in our last newsletter, we truly look forward to visiting with as many of you as we can while we are in the States this summer. July is our month for Minnesota and August is for Texas. Each of you has blessed us more than we can say.
Thank you again for your support of us and this work!
In Christ,
Roger, Heather, Noah, and Elaina Mahan
Spring has taken a long time to get here and even now it seems to be retreating once again. It has been an interesting last 6 months weather-wise. We appreciate all the prayers and concern expressed regarding the volcanic cloud that was troubling much of Europe. The first major cloud passed to the north of us without any concern for our area. The second evidently passed over us and caused delays at the airports but again, we were not effected.
Update on Silvia
Before moving on to the update of what we have been doing, I wanted thank everyone for their prayers for Silvia Seminara. She was baptized years ago but recently returned to worship, even though she has been attending the midweek studies regularly for quite some time. As happens often, when we start trying to align our lives according to God's will, we find ourselves facing trials. Silvia was admitted to the hospital in Pistoia and was diagnosed with a thrombosis of between 7 and 10 centimeters. After more than a month in the hospital and a couple of episodes where portions of the clot broke off, the clot had reduced to 3 centimeters and several weeks ago she was sent home. Last week she had another check-up and the clot is completely gone. We praise God for protecting her throughout the treatment and it has been amazing to see the strength with which Silvia faced and overcame this trial.
Travel to the US
Hoping that summer will eventually arrive, we have been making preparations for our visit to the US this summer. Tickets have been purchased and while we paid less than two years ago, it is quite an investment. We look forward to seeing many of you while there. We still have dates available for presentations if anyone would be interested in hearing about the work in Pistoia. We will be in Minnesota for the month of July and in Texas for the end of June and beginning of August.
Villetri
For 30 years, the churches of Christ in Italy have held an annual retreat/meeting near Rome. This year was our first opportunity to attend as a family for the full weekend and we were incredibly blessed to have been there. We must thank our sponsoring congregation for making this possible as the cost has been restrictive for us in past years. The theme was “On the way to Faith” and among the speakers was James Woodruff. We were also able to meet for the first time Howard Bibee. He came to Italy 60 years ago and lived here for many years before moving back to the US. The Italian brethren were very encouraged by his presence. Also encouraging was the time that is typically set aside for each congregation represented to “quickly” give a report. The church in Italy has a beautiful sense of the importance of their sister congregations knowing also the great effort that it took to establish each congregation. That being the case, they are always interested in knowing how their brethren are doing.
Invitation from Florence
The last weekend of August is usually reserved by the church in Florence for a conference and this year will be no different. I was very pleased and encouraged to receive an invitation to participate as one of the speakers at this event. It would be the first time that I have been officially invited to participate as a speaker outside of our congregation, however due to work that will be done to the building, the conference has been postponed until next year. The invitation was nonetheless very meaningful for me as it serves as verification, at least for me, of having been accepted by our neighboring congregations and being considered capable of communicating God's word in Italian.
Midweek studies
Our midweek studies hit a bit of a snag during the period when Silvia was in the hospital. I have not been able to put my finger on the exact correlation, but we had been studying unity and how the church is made of every member. Every member has responsibility and influence upon the rest of the congregation whether or not it is realized. As Paul wrote in I Corinthians 12:26 - “if one part suffers every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.” Perhaps this snag, was a demonstration of how we had put into practice this sentiment for our sister, Silvia. This study has been part of a curriculum to help prepare us for how we will move forward as a congregation in all our efforts, activities, and in setting our overall focus.
For the remaining time before our summer break, we have been studying the letters to the seven churches in Revelation. In these letters Jesus gives an evaluation of the seven churches in Asia. We are attempting to benefit from these evaluations while looking at how we can move continually closer to what God wants us to be. The day before our departure will be the last of these studies, and the congregation will be challenged to consider what Jesus might write to us. What might he say about our strengths, and our weaknesses?
Outreach
We have been involved in a few forms of outreach recently. Some of it is indirect while other types are more direct and to the point. We have begun a collection of non-perishable foods which we will divide into packages in September. Invitations will be printed and delivered to locations where people may normally seek assistance. The invitation will be to our building on a particular day when they may pick up a package which will contain non-perishable food items and a Bible. It will also give us a direct contact with those we are hoping to help.
Fellowship Meal
Much of our work is dependent upon having some level of credibility. This often takes time as many are skeptical of religion (especially non-Catholic religions). Being a foreigner can also add to the reluctance to listen to the message we are trying to convey. With these being the case, spending time with others in settings where they see the consistency between what we say and what we do, is a necessity. Our fellowship meals provide such an opportunity. Since we have been preparing for furlough, a fellowship meal was planned for our last Sunday before departure. One of the families from the community with whom we have a good attended as well as one of the ladies who also participates in the “Pistoia International Choir”. Her presence was a very pleasant surprise and we pray that more opportunities will arise in the future.
Family News
Our family is doing well. Many of you know that we have been seeking some help for Elaina regarding her ability to communicate. We were finally able to get her into the children's psychiatrist for assessment to see whether or not a speech therapist would be beneficial for her. The psychiatrist said that Elaina has no problems with understanding, and that is a huge blessing. Right now, Elaina lacks expressive language skills and her form of communication is usually one or two words, rather than entire phrases or sentences like other children her age. Elaina has been officially put on the waiting list for a speech therapist and will begin when we return from the US, as school begins. Noah has been improving in school and, as most kids his age, is already looking forward to a summer without school and homework. However, we're not sure how to break the news to him that Italian schools assign summer homework. Heather has continued with her Italian classes and has been busy trying to keep up with her contacts from the kids' old and new schools, as well as making time to meet individually with the ladies in the church here in Pistoia. As for me, when the weather is nice, I am trying to get in some time on the bike before my slow down in the States.
As was said in our last newsletter, we truly look forward to visiting with as many of you as we can while we are in the States this summer. July is our month for Minnesota and August is for Texas. Each of you has blessed us more than we can say.
Thank you again for your support of us and this work!
In Christ,
Roger, Heather, Noah, and Elaina Mahan
Friday, May 28, 2010
February 2010
We thank God every time we think of you. Your generosity makes it possible for us to be here working alongside the church in Pistoia, where God has richly blessed us with a loving Christian family. We pray for you all often, thanking God for the partnership that we share in this effort.
The beginning of the year has been busy, and that is good! We pray that the busy-ness translates into fruitfulness for Christ. We held our first conference on the 31st of January. In February, I was blessed to attend the nationwide men's conference which was held in Prato. And at the start of this month Heather attended the women's conference in Florence, which she also helped to organize. These opportunities have proven to be very encouraging, as we have been able to meet and get to know better some of the brethren from around the country.
Christian Testimony Conference
For those of you who know the roots of the “church of Christ”(which is almost all of you), the title alone is evidence of something a bit different. It was an afternoon where Christians from all over Italy could come and share what God has done in their lives. Among the speakers was a young man who is paralyzed and in a wheelchair after an automobile accident, and several others who told about how they have come through great difficulties by placing faith in God. It was a day to focus on God's blessings and to glorify HIM.
More than 55 attended the conference, and we received many encouraging comments and feedback afterward. One person said that they appreciated the conference because it provided encouragement and fellowship without the “arguments” or doctrinal debates that sometimes arise at the church meetings. Doctrinal discussions and in-depth studies certainly have their place and are most definitely beneficial, but this day was organized as something different. It was more like the church's Thanksgiving Day. And there was a meal that followed!
Men's Conference
The men's conference was organized by my brother's congregation in Prato this year. That in and of itself was a blessing because travel is not exactly cheap in Italy. Between travel, food, and accommodations, it is easy to spend more than $150 in a weekend. While it may not seem like much to some, our budget doesn't sustain those increases very easily.
The conference was very encouraging! The topic was “The Joy of Finding Yourself Indispensable in the Local Church.” Sometimes the challenges of the work in Italy can be very draining and topics like this are necessary. The men who attended were predominantly the full-time workers for the congregations in Italy and the topic focused on stimulating us to see the potential of the resources at our disposal, those being our brothers and sisters in the Faith. Collaborating with the body of Christ in the efforts of the local congregation help us realize that we, along with everyone else, are indispensable.
Women's conference
Heather has recently been busy with helping in the organization of the women's conference held in Florence. Several Saturdays have been occupied by her traveling to Florence for the organizational meetings, as well as hours of preparation here at home. The topic for the conference was the book of Esther, looking at her characteristics and how they translate into our current relationship with Christ. This conference was also a great opportunity for members of our church to work alongside members from the Prato and Florence congregations. Approximately 65 women attended the conference and left with renewed focus on what characteristics strengthen a woman's relationship with Christ.
Mid-Week Bible Studies
We began a series of studies in November on appreciating the contribution of our brothers and sisters. The goal of the series has been to heighten awareness of our Christian family and consider how we can move forward as a unit. Hebrews 10:24 relates the sentiment well, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” It is too easy to be critical of others or even to just drift along in our Faith. We have been focusing on applying ourselves to helping each other grow, be encouraged, and enjoy the company of Christians. We are now moving into a period of forming our activities and efforts for the upcoming months and years. Please mention these in your prayers.
Prayer request
We also request your prayers for a young lady in the church. She had some pain on the left side of her ribcage for a few days and is now in the hospital being treated for an embolism. Upon further tests they have found that a portion of a clot had broken free from near her heart and stopped in her lung on the left side. The remainder of the clot is still at the point of origin. The situation is very grave and the treatment will last 6 months to a year. Her name is Silvia.
Family News
Our family is doing well. God has blessed us immensely. Elaina and Noah are plugging away at school. Elaina is finally able to spend significant time with other kids her age and that makes us happy that she can make her own friends. Noah says he wishes he could go back to preschool sometimes because play-time is limited in 1st grade. Heather has been very busy with various preparations for activities, running the kids here and there, and taking care of me. And I don't really have anything to report on a personal level except that I can't wait for Spring to arrive. The good weather has not coincided with my free time very much and I'm ready to get out on my bike for some rides.
We look forward to visiting with as many of you as we can while we are in the States this summer. July is our month for Minnesota and August is for Texas. We are still looking to top off our budget so PLEASE let us know if you are aware of possible funding. It is not a great amount that remains, but perhaps that posses a problem. Many might think, “Oh, well someone else will contribute that.” We need someone to step up in this respect.
Thank you again for your support of us and this work!
In Christ,
Roger, Heather, Noah, and Elaina Mahan
The beginning of the year has been busy, and that is good! We pray that the busy-ness translates into fruitfulness for Christ. We held our first conference on the 31st of January. In February, I was blessed to attend the nationwide men's conference which was held in Prato. And at the start of this month Heather attended the women's conference in Florence, which she also helped to organize. These opportunities have proven to be very encouraging, as we have been able to meet and get to know better some of the brethren from around the country.
Christian Testimony Conference
For those of you who know the roots of the “church of Christ”(which is almost all of you), the title alone is evidence of something a bit different. It was an afternoon where Christians from all over Italy could come and share what God has done in their lives. Among the speakers was a young man who is paralyzed and in a wheelchair after an automobile accident, and several others who told about how they have come through great difficulties by placing faith in God. It was a day to focus on God's blessings and to glorify HIM.
More than 55 attended the conference, and we received many encouraging comments and feedback afterward. One person said that they appreciated the conference because it provided encouragement and fellowship without the “arguments” or doctrinal debates that sometimes arise at the church meetings. Doctrinal discussions and in-depth studies certainly have their place and are most definitely beneficial, but this day was organized as something different. It was more like the church's Thanksgiving Day. And there was a meal that followed!
Men's Conference
The men's conference was organized by my brother's congregation in Prato this year. That in and of itself was a blessing because travel is not exactly cheap in Italy. Between travel, food, and accommodations, it is easy to spend more than $150 in a weekend. While it may not seem like much to some, our budget doesn't sustain those increases very easily.
The conference was very encouraging! The topic was “The Joy of Finding Yourself Indispensable in the Local Church.” Sometimes the challenges of the work in Italy can be very draining and topics like this are necessary. The men who attended were predominantly the full-time workers for the congregations in Italy and the topic focused on stimulating us to see the potential of the resources at our disposal, those being our brothers and sisters in the Faith. Collaborating with the body of Christ in the efforts of the local congregation help us realize that we, along with everyone else, are indispensable.
Women's conference
Heather has recently been busy with helping in the organization of the women's conference held in Florence. Several Saturdays have been occupied by her traveling to Florence for the organizational meetings, as well as hours of preparation here at home. The topic for the conference was the book of Esther, looking at her characteristics and how they translate into our current relationship with Christ. This conference was also a great opportunity for members of our church to work alongside members from the Prato and Florence congregations. Approximately 65 women attended the conference and left with renewed focus on what characteristics strengthen a woman's relationship with Christ.
Mid-Week Bible Studies
We began a series of studies in November on appreciating the contribution of our brothers and sisters. The goal of the series has been to heighten awareness of our Christian family and consider how we can move forward as a unit. Hebrews 10:24 relates the sentiment well, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.” It is too easy to be critical of others or even to just drift along in our Faith. We have been focusing on applying ourselves to helping each other grow, be encouraged, and enjoy the company of Christians. We are now moving into a period of forming our activities and efforts for the upcoming months and years. Please mention these in your prayers.
Prayer request
We also request your prayers for a young lady in the church. She had some pain on the left side of her ribcage for a few days and is now in the hospital being treated for an embolism. Upon further tests they have found that a portion of a clot had broken free from near her heart and stopped in her lung on the left side. The remainder of the clot is still at the point of origin. The situation is very grave and the treatment will last 6 months to a year. Her name is Silvia.
Family News
Our family is doing well. God has blessed us immensely. Elaina and Noah are plugging away at school. Elaina is finally able to spend significant time with other kids her age and that makes us happy that she can make her own friends. Noah says he wishes he could go back to preschool sometimes because play-time is limited in 1st grade. Heather has been very busy with various preparations for activities, running the kids here and there, and taking care of me. And I don't really have anything to report on a personal level except that I can't wait for Spring to arrive. The good weather has not coincided with my free time very much and I'm ready to get out on my bike for some rides.
We look forward to visiting with as many of you as we can while we are in the States this summer. July is our month for Minnesota and August is for Texas. We are still looking to top off our budget so PLEASE let us know if you are aware of possible funding. It is not a great amount that remains, but perhaps that posses a problem. Many might think, “Oh, well someone else will contribute that.” We need someone to step up in this respect.
Thank you again for your support of us and this work!
In Christ,
Roger, Heather, Noah, and Elaina Mahan
Saturday, January 30, 2010
December 2009-January 2010
PISTOIA, ITALY
DECEMBER 2009-JANUARY 2010
Greetings from Pistoia, Italy where we are learning the value of long underwear! It has been cold here. At the beginning of December a snow storm hit Tuscany and, with much of our area being dedicated to Greenhouses and Nurseries, a tremendous amount of damage was sustained. The city was blanketed by 6 inches of snow in one night and it was not completely melted away until 3 days later. The snow itself is not uncommon for this area but the quantity and the duration made an impact.
The kids thoroughly enjoyed the snow. We built snowmen and snow angels. Noah even had a snowball fight with the girl next door! But after 45 minutes it was time for a warm-up. We all went inside, took off our snow-covered clothes and tried to warm back up. When we came inside, Elaina grabbed some toilet paper and started rubbing it on her feet. When Heather asked what she was doing, Elaina said, “bua” which is the kids' way of saying they are hurt. Elaina received a decorated hot water bottle for Christmas from school, so we used it to help her warm up her feet. A few minutes later, Noah was on the couch with Elaina complaining about how his feet hurt as well. Elaina took her hot water bottle and put it on Noah's feet. Then she proceeded to take care of him. She covered him with a blanket, tucked him in, and even brought him a couple of her dolls to lay beside him. It was incredibly sweet to see Elaina taking care of her big brother, and Noah enjoyed it too.
ACTIVITIES
The snow slowed things down for a while and pushed some of our appointments into the holiday season which was already packed with activity. But we survived everything and had plenty of time to enjoy the kids while they were out of school.
The concerts for the International Choir of Pistoia are now done. Heather especially enjoys participating. We had five concerts in all, most of which were on Sunday evenings and a decent audience was present for each. The choir is an interesting story that I'll retell in person if you are interested, but in written form it is a bit lengthy. That being said, we have essentially been participating with a completely different choir even though some of the members are the same. Approximately 30 people participate and it is another instance where we can come into regular contact with the same people. This allows us more opportunity to develop and nurture relationships and conversations about God's word.
BUILDING RENOVATIONS
For this month, and part of December, Giovanni and I have been painting the interior of the church building. I have decided that white paint is not the best selection for large areas that are hard to reach. The ceiling of the building is about 25 feet high and rolling paint on it one time is not an easy task when you aren't accustomed to it. The problem with white paint, or at least the white paint we had, was that while it is wet it is the same color as the old paint and it is extremely difficult to determine where paint has already been applied. So a job well done turns into a splotchy unsightly ceiling when the paint dries and reveals where paint was applied. Three coats seems to be the required amount. The upper walls and ceiling are white. The lower section is a cream color. For the lower section I have two words – ONE COAT. The worship area is finished, except for the metal trim of the windows which will have to wait until condensation doesn't form inside the building. All of this work is for two reasons: first, the repairs on the roof are completed and it no longer leaks; second, the church will be hosting a meeting of sorts on January 30th.
CHURCH EVENTS
The meeting on the 30th is an experiment of sorts. It will will be a time of personal experience. Numerous speakers have been organized to talk about how their lives have been changed since coming to Christ. It is not something that we from the church of Christ are accustomed to, however the concept of sharing how we have been blessed is biblical. It will not be a time to boast about how one person is better or more blessed than another, but a time to be encouraged by the good things that are happening to our brothers and sisters.
A good deal of planning and time have gone into this effort. Posters will be placed throughout the town to advertise the event and we will have a booth at the local market for two days to distribute fliers of varying kinds. The church family is preparing a buffet meal to follow the meeting. The goal of the meeting is to help people see the practical benefits of faith in Christ and, from that point, we pray that opportunity will be available to talk about God's word.
FINANCIAL MATTERS
No minister or missionary enjoys talking about money, but we feel it necessary to make an appeal to you all. We are in the process of planning our summer furlough to the United States and will be purchasing tickets in the near future. At the same time, we are also completing our tax forms for 2009. In the past, both of these items have been added to credit cards. While we don't believe in purchasing on credit, our credit card debt is almost solely from insurance expenses, taxes and airline tickets during the last five years. If there is anyone who would be willing to contribute to these expenses through a one-time contribution, it would be greatly appreciated.
In addition, we have been asked to extend our time in Italy by our church family here in Pistoia and feel called by God to prolong our time. (A copy of the church's letter is posted on our blog site.) With that call comes a need to raise some additional funds. Until this past year, we have run a negative balance for our entire stay in Italy, and our buffer for debt is at its maximum. With the economy in the US being as it is, we know that it is difficult for many of you as well. However, we are essentially at 90% of what is necessary for us to continue working with the church in Pistoia. It means that approximately $200 per month would make it possible for a missionary family to stay on the field. We have faith that God provides for his children and for those who love Him, and we know that he will provide for us as well, but not without your help. We believe that with the additional funds we will be able to come through the next two years without incurring additional debt. Without that 10%, the remaining 90% would be rendered useless, as we would most likely be forced to return to the US. If you are able to contribute to help us meet this need, please contact us or the elders of the Richfield Church of Christ in Richfield, MN.
IN CLOSING
We thank all of you who keep us constantly in your prayers. We know that it makes a difference in the work of the church! May you all continue to feel God's blessings each and every day of your lives.
In Christ,
The Mahans
DECEMBER 2009-JANUARY 2010
Greetings from Pistoia, Italy where we are learning the value of long underwear! It has been cold here. At the beginning of December a snow storm hit Tuscany and, with much of our area being dedicated to Greenhouses and Nurseries, a tremendous amount of damage was sustained. The city was blanketed by 6 inches of snow in one night and it was not completely melted away until 3 days later. The snow itself is not uncommon for this area but the quantity and the duration made an impact.
The kids thoroughly enjoyed the snow. We built snowmen and snow angels. Noah even had a snowball fight with the girl next door! But after 45 minutes it was time for a warm-up. We all went inside, took off our snow-covered clothes and tried to warm back up. When we came inside, Elaina grabbed some toilet paper and started rubbing it on her feet. When Heather asked what she was doing, Elaina said, “bua” which is the kids' way of saying they are hurt. Elaina received a decorated hot water bottle for Christmas from school, so we used it to help her warm up her feet. A few minutes later, Noah was on the couch with Elaina complaining about how his feet hurt as well. Elaina took her hot water bottle and put it on Noah's feet. Then she proceeded to take care of him. She covered him with a blanket, tucked him in, and even brought him a couple of her dolls to lay beside him. It was incredibly sweet to see Elaina taking care of her big brother, and Noah enjoyed it too.
ACTIVITIES
The snow slowed things down for a while and pushed some of our appointments into the holiday season which was already packed with activity. But we survived everything and had plenty of time to enjoy the kids while they were out of school.
The concerts for the International Choir of Pistoia are now done. Heather especially enjoys participating. We had five concerts in all, most of which were on Sunday evenings and a decent audience was present for each. The choir is an interesting story that I'll retell in person if you are interested, but in written form it is a bit lengthy. That being said, we have essentially been participating with a completely different choir even though some of the members are the same. Approximately 30 people participate and it is another instance where we can come into regular contact with the same people. This allows us more opportunity to develop and nurture relationships and conversations about God's word.
BUILDING RENOVATIONS
For this month, and part of December, Giovanni and I have been painting the interior of the church building. I have decided that white paint is not the best selection for large areas that are hard to reach. The ceiling of the building is about 25 feet high and rolling paint on it one time is not an easy task when you aren't accustomed to it. The problem with white paint, or at least the white paint we had, was that while it is wet it is the same color as the old paint and it is extremely difficult to determine where paint has already been applied. So a job well done turns into a splotchy unsightly ceiling when the paint dries and reveals where paint was applied. Three coats seems to be the required amount. The upper walls and ceiling are white. The lower section is a cream color. For the lower section I have two words – ONE COAT. The worship area is finished, except for the metal trim of the windows which will have to wait until condensation doesn't form inside the building. All of this work is for two reasons: first, the repairs on the roof are completed and it no longer leaks; second, the church will be hosting a meeting of sorts on January 30th.
CHURCH EVENTS
The meeting on the 30th is an experiment of sorts. It will will be a time of personal experience. Numerous speakers have been organized to talk about how their lives have been changed since coming to Christ. It is not something that we from the church of Christ are accustomed to, however the concept of sharing how we have been blessed is biblical. It will not be a time to boast about how one person is better or more blessed than another, but a time to be encouraged by the good things that are happening to our brothers and sisters.
A good deal of planning and time have gone into this effort. Posters will be placed throughout the town to advertise the event and we will have a booth at the local market for two days to distribute fliers of varying kinds. The church family is preparing a buffet meal to follow the meeting. The goal of the meeting is to help people see the practical benefits of faith in Christ and, from that point, we pray that opportunity will be available to talk about God's word.
FINANCIAL MATTERS
No minister or missionary enjoys talking about money, but we feel it necessary to make an appeal to you all. We are in the process of planning our summer furlough to the United States and will be purchasing tickets in the near future. At the same time, we are also completing our tax forms for 2009. In the past, both of these items have been added to credit cards. While we don't believe in purchasing on credit, our credit card debt is almost solely from insurance expenses, taxes and airline tickets during the last five years. If there is anyone who would be willing to contribute to these expenses through a one-time contribution, it would be greatly appreciated.
In addition, we have been asked to extend our time in Italy by our church family here in Pistoia and feel called by God to prolong our time. (A copy of the church's letter is posted on our blog site.) With that call comes a need to raise some additional funds. Until this past year, we have run a negative balance for our entire stay in Italy, and our buffer for debt is at its maximum. With the economy in the US being as it is, we know that it is difficult for many of you as well. However, we are essentially at 90% of what is necessary for us to continue working with the church in Pistoia. It means that approximately $200 per month would make it possible for a missionary family to stay on the field. We have faith that God provides for his children and for those who love Him, and we know that he will provide for us as well, but not without your help. We believe that with the additional funds we will be able to come through the next two years without incurring additional debt. Without that 10%, the remaining 90% would be rendered useless, as we would most likely be forced to return to the US. If you are able to contribute to help us meet this need, please contact us or the elders of the Richfield Church of Christ in Richfield, MN.
IN CLOSING
We thank all of you who keep us constantly in your prayers. We know that it makes a difference in the work of the church! May you all continue to feel God's blessings each and every day of your lives.
In Christ,
The Mahans
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