Sunday, June 17, 2012

May 2012

A Unique Summer Project
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For those of you who have read Joel's latest book, Seven Lies Almost Every Teen Believes, you understand the journey the reader takes from the beginning to the end.  The book covers everything from relativism to church membership in about 200 pages.  We worked especially hard to make this book easy to understand and written in 'teen lingo.' By God's grace, we were able to give away about 10,000 copies of the book this past school year and the feedback has been incredible (see the message from Joel). 

Now we know that for many teens, the idea of reading a book from cover to cover can be daunting.  So we have an exciting idea for next year to help students understand and internalize the theological concepts Joel communicates in Seven Lies.  Ryan is working on a brand new, full-length album. But this one is unique. The CD parallels Joel's book and each song correlates specifically with one lie (i.e. one chapter of the book!).  Ryan and Joel worked very hard all Spring and the album is now undergoing the finishing touches so that it can be ready for Fall 2012 school year.  If you think of it, would you pray for this special project? Pray that the words of the Bible reach the ears of thousands of teens and convict them of their need for Christ.  Pray that they would use Joel's "Seven Lies" book and Ryan's CD as just a stepping stone to their new relationship with Christ, time in God's Word and prayer, and a real connection to the church.

Until Next Month,
Bethany 



Support Team Update
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During our transition from FCA to our new ministry, Stand For Truth, we have been encouraged by the number of supporters who have continued to partner with us. So far, about 90% of our support team has remained intact!

If you haven't already, would you consider joining our support team with a monthly gift of $100, $50, or $30? You can quickly and securely join our monthly support team or give a one-time gift online HERE.



Message From Joel
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Friends,

It is exciting to think about the thousands of students who heard the gospel through our ministry this past school year.  It is perhaps even more exciting to think about some of the anecdotal feedback from students.  Below is a conversation I had with a couple students on my facebook wall after Ryan and I visited their school.  

Jenny: Joel, I just read your whole book within 24 hours. While my classes were going on I found it very hard to not open it and read it. I turned to God that night at the high school and I can't wait to grow more spiritually!
Joel: Wow...I'm glad you like the book so much... I'm even more excited that you have turned to Jesus.
Laura: I want to say something as well. I know you as a one of my close friends Jenny, and I am really proud of you. I also turned to Jesus that night at the concert. I read the entire book as well and it really made me think about the way I was living and looking at things. Now I'm ready to have him in my life forever.
Jenny: That’s good Laura, we can do this together!
Laura: For sure!

Praise God for the work he does in students' hearts and thank you for your prayers and support!

-Joel