June 6th, 2008
Dear friends,
No, you’ve not been removed from our address list; it’s just been 9 weeks since our last update… but here we are again! So much has happened, both in our personal lives and in ministry.
Continuing the fight
It has now been 5 months since I was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. I have not had a CT scan since February 25th and because I actually can’t feel the tumors, it’s difficult to assess the progress. Despite the itching, which still keeps me awake at night and is a source of great irritation, I am actually doing very well. I continue to be on a strict diet, to get IVs (75,000mg vitamin C) twice a week and I take a mountain of natural supplements and medicines.
Europe
We returned 48 hours ago from a 7-week trip through 5 European countries. In England we attended the annual KKI International Leadership Team meeting, In Denmark we spent much needed time with my family and saw many of our friends. In Hungary we stayed in our house (oh how we miss it) and enjoyed seeing how it’s being used to serve God. In Poland we visited the KKI leaders in Katowice, and spoke at a seminar for children- & youth leaders and preached in a Baptist Church. In Slovakia we attended meetings for YWAM Central Europe. Many were concerned about this extensive travel, considering my health, but it actually went better than expected. Yes, it was more demanding than usual, and we certainly kept to a more “relaxed” ministry itinerary, but it was well worth it. It was so refreshing for us, to be back among old friends in the part of the world that we love so much.
Ordination
On Sunday April 13th (just 2 days before we went to Europe) Shanie and I were ordained at our Church in Arizona. It was an amazing time of our pastors affirming our calling and speaking out God’s blessings and purposes over our lives.
Prayer Points:
- For Elizabeth’s education in “Communication & Media Production” with the University of the Nations. Her next course is in South Africa and starts July 1st. Pray for protection, financial provision and for her relationship with Matt.
- For Amanda who is planning to attend a DTS with YWAM in Slovakia, which starts Sept. 15th. Pray that she will be ready by then, both emotionally and practically.
- For CammiAnn who, after Sept. 15th, will be an “only child”. Pray for encouragement for her, and that it will be a good season in her life.
- It’s expensive to be sick (especially in the US). Please pray for continued provision to cover Peter’s medical treatment.
- For the strength God has given me each day, to function, despite only getting 2-4 hours of sleep a night.
- For a bunch of people praying for me, through the night, during our conference in Bratislava.
- For people in Europe currently running "40 days of prayer" for us.
- For my wife who is so supportive and self-sacrificing.
- For my children who pray for me and extend grace to me each day.
- For my many friends around the world, who are holding us up by their prayers and encouragement.
- For our supporters who’ve been standing with us through thick and thin (you are amazing!).
- To God who gives me His peace, joy and hope each day.
Thank you for your prayers and friendship. We love and appreciate you all.
Peter and Shanie