I hope you all had a blessed Easter. This time last year I was back in Florida for a break and support raising, and this year I was able to experience a Fijian Easter celebration. Here in Fiji, an Easter tradition is that all the bakeries sell fresh buns that have crosses on them. And they refer to Good Friday as Easter and Easter as Resurrection Sunday. My roommates and I cooked a wonderful Easter lunch of chicken curry with rice and tamarind chutney and a Fijian dessert (vudi which is like a plantain that we boiled and sweetened and ate with ice cream). This Easter the Lord reminded me that Christ persevered and struggled for me so that in times of pleasure and pain, I am able to trust God even when He seems silent and cannot be traced. Christ received no mercy or grace so that we are able to receive unconditional and limitless mercy and grace from God!
Events that have come and gone:
1. The last Sunday in March I traveled to a village about 2 hours away with my roommates and friends to attend a special service for one pastor who became the regional director for 17 churches. My roommate and I were able to share about EE during the service and testify about our ministry. It was a big open door for people to hear about EE and the importance of knowing how to share your faith. Since then the regional director has asked us to lead an EE Clinic for all the pastors under him next month! We are excited for the Gospel to go forth in more areas of the interior of Fiji!
2. During the first weekend of this month me, my roommate La, and 2 other Fijian EE staff (Wilson and Tevita) came together for a retreat. It was such a great time of being refreshed and encouraged. Each of us had a chance to share about how God has been using us, our struggles personally and in ministry, and prayer needs. We took lots of time to pray together and bond. We even had a fun outing at the beach! I was so moved when the three of them said, “Sarah – we are so grateful for the time you invested in us to mentor and disciple and train us for this ministry.” I praise God for these 3 young people who are out there doing the work boldly and always available to serve. They are my family here, my close friends, my partners in ministry.
3. I have continued to teach a Kids Cell every Wednesday. Most of the kids who attend come from the village and always bring friends. A few weeks ago me and my co-leader had the opportunity to share the Gospel with them and 10 of the children prayed to receive Jesus as their Lord and Savior! And we have started teaching them Kid’s EE. They are so ready to learn, and I am so eager to teach them! I have so much fun with them.
4. On Friday April 15th, my mission team planning to go to the Solomon Islands hosted a fundraising dinner. About 60 people attended. We had a wonderful program of performances (Fijian dances and singing in Pidgin English), testimonies, and a presentation about our vision for this mission trip. I thank the Lord that it all went well and people were challenged by our team.
5. As I mentioned in my last month’s update, there is a big youth mission conference in the first week of May. Youth from Australia, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, Samoa, Noumea, Kiribati will be coming for the conference. The speakers are from the US, Australia, Malaysia, and Burkino Faso. I’m part of the drama and dance teams, and we have been practicing nonstop. It’s been hard core, but I’ve enjoyed it. It has given me opportunities to get to know more of the youth in a deeper way. The Conference committee has also asked me to speak in one of the mini-sessions. I felt so honored! As I speak there will be a slideshow playing of pictures of me on the mission field. There will be about 5,000 young people there so please pray for me as I have an opportunity to share about missions!
I’m in awe of how time flies and have been able to reflect on all God has done since I moved to Fiji in June 2009. This coming June will mark 2 years of doing ministry here in Fiji. The past few months I have been listening to the podcast sermons of Pastor Tullian Tchividjian, pastor of my home church in Florida. I was listening to a past sermon recently, and he said – “God doesn’t need us. Most of the time we, sinners, get in the way of God’s plans, but He chooses to use us and draw us to Himself. And God is not obligated to reveal Himself and His ways to us, but He DOES! Time and time again.” How blessed are we! Even though God does not need me to do His work, I am so humbled that He has chosen me to take part in what He’s doing here in Fiji. Pastor Tullian also mentioned that many believers, after being saved grace, revert back to the mentality that our performance on earth allows us to keep our salvation. I realized that at times I have had that mentality. I have been reminded that I need to focus on the complete and finished work of Christ on the cross, and hold on to that. I thank God that He did it all through Jesus Christ. God continues to develop the Gospel within me for the growth of my faith and to better counsel those in need of the Gospel.
Once again, I am so grateful for your prayers and financial support. Thank you for extending your hands and hearts to Fiji through this ministry. I hope you are blessed by this update, as through you, all these things have been able to come about with the Lord’s leading. Please continue to pray for me and my ministry. If you have not yet renewed your monthly gift or one-time donation and have the desire to do so, please see the info below.
Ways to Support:
Online - www.eeworks.org
*Click on "Ways to Support" then "Online Giving"
*Type "Sarah Abadines 6124" in the box provided
*Type in amount and complete the given instructions
Make checks out to Evangelism Explosion International and on memo line write "Sarah Abadines 6124" (all checks tax deductible)
Mail to:
Evangelism Explosion International
P.O. Box 23820
Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33307-3820
Here by His grace and mercy,
Sarah Abadines
Monday, April 25, 2011
Thursday, March 17, 2011
3rd month of 2011 already? Whew!
Au nuitaka ni toso vinaka tiko na qaravi Kalou! (I hope you are well in the Lord!)
By the way - Happy belated Pi day and St. Patrick’s Day! (I miss celebrating those holidays back home!) Meanwhile, I have so enjoyed being back in the comforts of my flat and home church here. While my roommate Lavenia has been busy spending time in the villages of the interior bush doing EE work, I have been busy in our local community with ministry. It has been nonstop these past few weeks.
Here’s what my weekly routine has been like:
Monday – administration/organization/office work (spending time at the internet café) & running errands
Tuesday – house visitations to fellowship with and encourage youth members
Wednesday – math tutoring and teach Kids Cell & Adult Cell
Thursday – house visitations to share the Gospel (OJT)
Friday – youth gathering
Saturday – youth EE class at the flat
Sunday – all day church (morning service, lunch, afternoon service)
I really look forward to Wednesday afternoon when I lead the Kids Cell with one of my close girlfriends, Manaini. The cell consists mostly of the kids from the nearby villages as well as a few who attend our church. I have so much fun teaching the songs, playing games, and being able to share about God’s Word. We have even started Kid’s EE with them. Each week I challenge them to share about Jesus to a friend or family member. When I asked them who shared, one small Fijian girl name Wainikiti raised her hand. She said, “Teacher Sarah I shared to my Indian friend at school and even shared my snacks with her! She prayed to accept Jesus!” I was so encouraged by this little girl and her boldness. I’m very close to her and her family. Whenever she sees me she’ll run and jump into my arms, and she just loves to play with my hair, always saying – “Sarah your hair is so pretty and nice!” haha
The past 2 weeks I have also taught Kid’s EE workshops on Mondays and Tuesdays in 3 of the church districts. Those are definitely long days as teaching a kids workshop uses all your energy, but the Lord sustained me. One lady who attended was a pastor’s wife who is helping her husband take care of an AOG church in the highlands. She spoke at the end of the workshop and even began to cry as she was so blessed by the workshop and excited to equip the Sunday School kids with Kid’s EE and the Gospel. Other participants shared that the workshop taught them how to be more godly as parents, to cherish their children and not underestimate their place in God’s Kingdom, and helped them understand the need to teach children how to witness. I was very moved by their feedback.
Another highlight of my week are Saturday evenings when my roommate La and I lead a Youth EE semester in our flat. It’s an intimate group of 8 people. Just last week we broke up into 2 groups to do an OJT to our neighbors. La and I have been praying over the past few months for the right opportunity to share the Gospel with our neighbors. La took a team to another flat at the back of our compound where 6 people prayed to receive Jesus! My team was able to speak to a young married couple next door to us who have a church background but have been inactive as church goers, so we were able to encourage and revive them in their faith. The husband got choked up as he thanked us for coming to share with them. I knew that God had moved in them while we were there.
Also in the midst of my busyness I have joined the creative thinking team for the South Pacific Youth Missions Conference that will be held in Fiji the first week of May. Thousands of youth will attend the conference from Fiji and another South Pacific island nations. I’m really excited to take part! The team is in charge of creating dances, dramas, and presentations for the conference that are focused on missions. I have fun brainstorming and giving my input as we work as a team to come up with something challenging and inspiring.
Besides local ministry here in Fiji, I have been busy organizing and planning for a mission trip to the Solomon Islands. The EE staff there has requested that I come with a small team to conduct the Island Interns Training I’ve been doing in Fiji. Their youth EE ministry needs a lot of work and the needs of youth over there are great. There’s a lot of preparation and fundraising that needs to be done. I will take a small team there in August for 2 weeks to run a youth camp and youth EE clinic. My roommate will help me lead, and we have chosen 4 young people to join us. We have started to contact different EE churches as we fundraise for our airfare, food, accommodation, transportation, and materials. Next month we are hosting a fundraising dinner for $30/person where there will be a presentation and special performances. The cost per person for this trip is $1,500 FJD = about $800 USD. Our first priority is to raise the funds needed for our airfare. Please be praying for our team as there is much to do to carry out this mission trip! And if you are feeling led to support this team financially PLEASE do not hesitate to contact me!
Upcoming Events:
Weekend in an EE village church for a special celebration (Mach 25-27)
Youth EE field worker retreat (April 1-3)
Church Fundraising Presentatioin (April 10)
Solomon Island Fundraising Dinner (April 15)
Prayer Needs:
Energy and perseverance in the midst of busyness
Solomon Island Trip Preparation
Local ministry
I am greatly humbled and blessed by each one of your prayers and support! God is working in so many ways around me. I am seeing lives transformed, people taking the Gospel out, and young people & kids growing more passionate for the Lord. I am continuously in awe of where God has placed me.
II Cor. 10:13 says, “We, however, will not boast beyond the proper limits, but will confine our boasting to the field God has assigned to us, a field that reaches even to you.” – This is exactly how I feel! I love how Paul describes it. I hope that the field God has assigned to me is reaching you in an encouraging and inspiring way because through YOU this field has been blessed.
If you would like to renew your monthly support or give additional financial support please see the info below. Also I have attached the monthly support renewal forms.
Ways to Support:
Online - www.eeworks.org
*Click on "Ways to Support" then "Online Giving"
*Type "Sarah Abadines 6124" in the box provided
*Type in amount and complete the given instructions
Make checks out to Evangelism Explosion International and on memo line write "Sarah Abadines 6124" (all checks tax deductible)
Mail to:
Evangelism Explosion International
P.O. Box 23820
Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33307-3820
Thursday, January 27, 2011
It's that time again!
“Love is the root of missions; sacrifice is the fruit of missions.” – Roderick Davis
It’s that time again. I arrived home on December 17th and now I am on my way back to Fiji. It was busy being at home from the holidays to catching up with family and friends to taking time to raising support. It was a blessing to be refilled mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I praise God for all the opportunities to share my experiences and responsibilities in ministry and the mission field with those around me and within local churches. I am looking forward to reuniting with my roommates and mission team, home church, and EE family in Fiji!
When I return to Fiji I will only have a few days to settle back in before diving back full-on into ministry. During first 3 weeks of February the EE Oceania Conference will be held at the EE Centre in Fiji. EE Staff from different nations will be in Fiji for the purpose of material and national planning & leadership and theology training. My role during the conference will be to teach sessions, assist the VP of EE Oceania in administrative ways, and help facilitate the conference since I am the “on-the-ground” person in Fiji. Please be praying for this conference as we hope to refuel and rejuvenate these nations to greater minister to locals through EE and the Gospel!
Oceania Nations include:
Australia
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Fiji
Tonga
Samoa
Vanuatu
Solomon Islands
As I enter into another phase of ministry I am excited to see what God has in store and how I can expand my ministry among youth and children in Fiji and beyond! I already have so many ideas and plans running in my head of how to reach out in more effective ways. I can’t wait to put these ideas into reality.
Thank you for your prayers and financial support! You are allowing this ministry to impact so many lives! To God be all the glory! Without your partnership I would not be able to take part in Fiji in this special way. Missions doesn’t stop for anybody.
However, I STILL have not reached 100% of my budget goal. If you or someone you know would like to take part in this ministry financially please see the information below.
Ways to Support:
Online - eeworks.org
* Click on "Ways to Support" then "Online Giving”
* Type "Sarah Abadines 6124" in the box provided
* Type in amount and complete the given instructions
* If you are led to become a monthly supporter PLEASE indicate
Checks - Make checks out to “Evangelism Explosion International” and on memo line write "Sarah Abadines 6124" (all checks tax deductible)
Mail to:
Evangelism Explosion International
P.O. Box 23820 Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33307-3820
Prayer Needs:
Safe Travel
Settling back into Fiji
EE Oceania Conference
My Fiji ministry
Youth I will continue to mentor and disciple
Financial Support
Please feel welcome to e-mail me any prayer requests or life updates! May God bless you as you partner with this ministry!
Be Blessed,
Sarah Abadines
It’s that time again. I arrived home on December 17th and now I am on my way back to Fiji. It was busy being at home from the holidays to catching up with family and friends to taking time to raising support. It was a blessing to be refilled mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I praise God for all the opportunities to share my experiences and responsibilities in ministry and the mission field with those around me and within local churches. I am looking forward to reuniting with my roommates and mission team, home church, and EE family in Fiji!
When I return to Fiji I will only have a few days to settle back in before diving back full-on into ministry. During first 3 weeks of February the EE Oceania Conference will be held at the EE Centre in Fiji. EE Staff from different nations will be in Fiji for the purpose of material and national planning & leadership and theology training. My role during the conference will be to teach sessions, assist the VP of EE Oceania in administrative ways, and help facilitate the conference since I am the “on-the-ground” person in Fiji. Please be praying for this conference as we hope to refuel and rejuvenate these nations to greater minister to locals through EE and the Gospel!
Oceania Nations include:
Australia
New Zealand
Papua New Guinea
Fiji
Tonga
Samoa
Vanuatu
Solomon Islands
As I enter into another phase of ministry I am excited to see what God has in store and how I can expand my ministry among youth and children in Fiji and beyond! I already have so many ideas and plans running in my head of how to reach out in more effective ways. I can’t wait to put these ideas into reality.
Thank you for your prayers and financial support! You are allowing this ministry to impact so many lives! To God be all the glory! Without your partnership I would not be able to take part in Fiji in this special way. Missions doesn’t stop for anybody.
However, I STILL have not reached 100% of my budget goal. If you or someone you know would like to take part in this ministry financially please see the information below.
Ways to Support:
Online - eeworks.org
* Click on "Ways to Support" then "Online Giving”
* Type "Sarah Abadines 6124" in the box provided
* Type in amount and complete the given instructions
* If you are led to become a monthly supporter PLEASE indicate
Checks - Make checks out to “Evangelism Explosion International” and on memo line write "Sarah Abadines 6124" (all checks tax deductible)
Mail to:
Evangelism Explosion International
P.O. Box 23820 Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33307-3820
Prayer Needs:
Safe Travel
Settling back into Fiji
EE Oceania Conference
My Fiji ministry
Youth I will continue to mentor and disciple
Financial Support
Please feel welcome to e-mail me any prayer requests or life updates! May God bless you as you partner with this ministry!
Be Blessed,
Sarah Abadines
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Being renewed....and looking forward
Dear Friends!
It is truly a special time of the year! I am overflowing with joy to be home for the holidays. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the precious Savior of this world, and prepare for 2011, I am able to reflect on God’s constant faithfulness and mighty works during my time on the mission field the past six months. I love being part of the EE ministry in Fiji. I would like to share with you just how “action-packed” ministry has been since I returned to Fiji earlier this year in June.
Ministry Calender:
==> June 12 – July 21 Fiji Interns Course (6 weeks course where young people from overseas and locally came together to focus on identifying God’s calling on their lives as well as their strengths in ministry)
==> July 10 – 20 Vanuatu Hope for Kids Workshop (trained EE Staff to run workshops and churches to implement Hope for Kids programs with children)
==> July 23 – August 8 Visit from my sister Sheilah (my sister was able to taste and experience Fijian culture as well as my mission work)
==> August 14 Moved out from EE Centre (I took a step out of the EE Centre to another town into a flat with local EE field worker, Lavenia Aditora where we formed a mission team and created a place where youth feel loved and filled)
==> August 21 – 26 Assembly of God Conference (annual conference in the Northern Division of Fiji where I traveled to a different island to participate with the local youth groups during the conference programs)
==> August 30 – September 3 Indian Youth EE Clinic (assisted one of our Fijian-Indian field workers to conduct and teach a Youth EE Clinic)
==> September 4 – 12 India Hope for Kids Workshop (traveled to Mumbai, India to train EE India Kids Workers to teach Sunday School teachers and Children’s leaders to run Hope for Kids programs in local churches throughout India)
==> September 26 – 30 Local Church Ministry (participating in my Fijian home church’s special youth and children’s ministry programs)
==> October 4 – 8 Multiethnic Adult EE Clinic (assisting EE Fiji field workers to equip local churches in the EE Gospel Presentation)
==> October 11-18 EE Field Worker Training (trained overseas EE Staff from Kenya, Jamaica, India, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands to run Hope for Kids Workshops in their own nations)
==> October 25 – November 5 Fiji Local Interns Youth Course Preparation
==> November 10 – 26 Fiji Local Interns Youth Course (conducted a 2 week course with 25 youth from all over Fiji to build them up as leaders and witnesses to assist the EE Fiji ministry and raise their faith to another level)
==> December 5-11 Papua New Guinea Hope for Kids workshop (trained EE Staff to run workshops and local churches to implement Hope for Kids programs with children)
==> December 17 HOME! (arrived back in Florida for a time of rest, fellowship with family & friends, and additional fundraising for mission support)
Mother Theresa once said, “I am a small pencil in the hand of a big God who is sending a love letter to the world.” I love this statement! My prayer is that I do my best to proclaim God’s love letter of salvation in this world. I am continuously humbled and thrilled by the many ways God has used me to equip His people in ministry, share the Gospel with others, and build up youth and children in their walk with the Lord throughout Fiji and other areas of the world! An additional aspect of my life that has been a blessing for over a year now is a certain special someone in Fiji that has been a source of companionship, support, and encouragement. His name is Isimeli Maba and is also involved in full-time ministry in Fiji among youth and missions. We are very happy and surrendering all things to the Lord. The busyness of ministry brings along with it the sacrifices of energy, time, efforts, and finances. But God always shows up in His perfect timing and ways just like Hudson Taylor said, “God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply.” When we declare our desires and surrender our will to His, the things we seek do come to pass. He has taught me to always be ready to be stretched in order to know Him more and make Him known.
I want to take the opportunity to thank you for all your support whether through prayer or financial giving. Your role in this ministry allows the work of the Lord to be carried out. I am so blessed to partner with you in reaching the Fiji Islands. Nothing makes me happier! Your support is touching lives in priceless ways!
Missions is always in the midst of our daily lives. And that is why I am also home here in the States to seek financial support. There is still much work to be done, and I am looking forward to going back to Fiji at the end of January to continue the work. The challenge is to be fully loaded and ready to be exploded for the cause of Christ! This Christmas season be reminded of our responsibility to witness however, whenever, and wherever possible. I hope that God provides an opportunity for you to share the Gospel with someone this Christmas season. Please pray about making a monthly or one-time donation to this ministry as I am in need of $1,500/month. There is much planned for the year 2011 which cannot be fulfilled without the help and giving of people like you. God bless you and your family and have a very Merry Christmas!
Ways to Support:
Online - eeworks.org
* Click on "Ways to Support" then "Online Giving”
* Type "Sarah Abadines 6124" in the box provided
* Type in amount and complete the given instructions
* If you are led to become a monthly supporter PLEASE indicate
Checks - Make checks out to Evangelism Explosion International and on memo line write "Sarah Abadines 6124" (all checks tax deductible)
Mail to:
Evangelism Explosion International
P.O. Box 23820 Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33307-3820
Vinaka! (Thank you!)
Sarah Abadines
It is truly a special time of the year! I am overflowing with joy to be home for the holidays. As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, the precious Savior of this world, and prepare for 2011, I am able to reflect on God’s constant faithfulness and mighty works during my time on the mission field the past six months. I love being part of the EE ministry in Fiji. I would like to share with you just how “action-packed” ministry has been since I returned to Fiji earlier this year in June.
Ministry Calender:
==> June 12 – July 21 Fiji Interns Course (6 weeks course where young people from overseas and locally came together to focus on identifying God’s calling on their lives as well as their strengths in ministry)
==> July 10 – 20 Vanuatu Hope for Kids Workshop (trained EE Staff to run workshops and churches to implement Hope for Kids programs with children)
==> July 23 – August 8 Visit from my sister Sheilah (my sister was able to taste and experience Fijian culture as well as my mission work)
==> August 14 Moved out from EE Centre (I took a step out of the EE Centre to another town into a flat with local EE field worker, Lavenia Aditora where we formed a mission team and created a place where youth feel loved and filled)
==> August 21 – 26 Assembly of God Conference (annual conference in the Northern Division of Fiji where I traveled to a different island to participate with the local youth groups during the conference programs)
==> August 30 – September 3 Indian Youth EE Clinic (assisted one of our Fijian-Indian field workers to conduct and teach a Youth EE Clinic)
==> September 4 – 12 India Hope for Kids Workshop (traveled to Mumbai, India to train EE India Kids Workers to teach Sunday School teachers and Children’s leaders to run Hope for Kids programs in local churches throughout India)
==> September 26 – 30 Local Church Ministry (participating in my Fijian home church’s special youth and children’s ministry programs)
==> October 4 – 8 Multiethnic Adult EE Clinic (assisting EE Fiji field workers to equip local churches in the EE Gospel Presentation)
==> October 11-18 EE Field Worker Training (trained overseas EE Staff from Kenya, Jamaica, India, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands to run Hope for Kids Workshops in their own nations)
==> October 25 – November 5 Fiji Local Interns Youth Course Preparation
==> November 10 – 26 Fiji Local Interns Youth Course (conducted a 2 week course with 25 youth from all over Fiji to build them up as leaders and witnesses to assist the EE Fiji ministry and raise their faith to another level)
==> December 5-11 Papua New Guinea Hope for Kids workshop (trained EE Staff to run workshops and local churches to implement Hope for Kids programs with children)
==> December 17 HOME! (arrived back in Florida for a time of rest, fellowship with family & friends, and additional fundraising for mission support)
Mother Theresa once said, “I am a small pencil in the hand of a big God who is sending a love letter to the world.” I love this statement! My prayer is that I do my best to proclaim God’s love letter of salvation in this world. I am continuously humbled and thrilled by the many ways God has used me to equip His people in ministry, share the Gospel with others, and build up youth and children in their walk with the Lord throughout Fiji and other areas of the world! An additional aspect of my life that has been a blessing for over a year now is a certain special someone in Fiji that has been a source of companionship, support, and encouragement. His name is Isimeli Maba and is also involved in full-time ministry in Fiji among youth and missions. We are very happy and surrendering all things to the Lord. The busyness of ministry brings along with it the sacrifices of energy, time, efforts, and finances. But God always shows up in His perfect timing and ways just like Hudson Taylor said, “God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply.” When we declare our desires and surrender our will to His, the things we seek do come to pass. He has taught me to always be ready to be stretched in order to know Him more and make Him known.
I want to take the opportunity to thank you for all your support whether through prayer or financial giving. Your role in this ministry allows the work of the Lord to be carried out. I am so blessed to partner with you in reaching the Fiji Islands. Nothing makes me happier! Your support is touching lives in priceless ways!
Missions is always in the midst of our daily lives. And that is why I am also home here in the States to seek financial support. There is still much work to be done, and I am looking forward to going back to Fiji at the end of January to continue the work. The challenge is to be fully loaded and ready to be exploded for the cause of Christ! This Christmas season be reminded of our responsibility to witness however, whenever, and wherever possible. I hope that God provides an opportunity for you to share the Gospel with someone this Christmas season. Please pray about making a monthly or one-time donation to this ministry as I am in need of $1,500/month. There is much planned for the year 2011 which cannot be fulfilled without the help and giving of people like you. God bless you and your family and have a very Merry Christmas!
Ways to Support:
Online - eeworks.org
* Click on "Ways to Support" then "Online Giving”
* Type "Sarah Abadines 6124" in the box provided
* Type in amount and complete the given instructions
* If you are led to become a monthly supporter PLEASE indicate
Checks - Make checks out to Evangelism Explosion International and on memo line write "Sarah Abadines 6124" (all checks tax deductible)
Mail to:
Evangelism Explosion International
P.O. Box 23820 Fort Lauderdale, Fl 33307-3820
Vinaka! (Thank you!)
Sarah Abadines
Monday, September 27, 2010
Enlarging the territory of ministry
Some of the youth who participated in the service....wearing Kubuna t-shirts representing the Kubuna confederacy of Fiji (represents certain provinces and villages in Fiji)
During this month, God has continued to enlarge my area of ministry. He has also shown His faithfulness is such an amazing ways.
My trip to Mumbai, India was a wonderful learning experience. The population of Mumbai is about 20 million people, which is about the same population as all of Australia. So being in the city was overwhelming. Mumbai is also the city with the largest amount of slum areas. It was a culture shock to see the people in such great poverty as they hung their clothes on the side of the road, built an extremely small tent under a bridge, or begging anywhere. The streets were filled with trash and awful smells. I saw the caste system come to life. It definitely takes special people to minister there. The workshop was very successful. It was wonderful time of teaching and fellowship.
Hope for Kids workshop details:
§ 41 trainees representing 20 different churches
§ 6 Kids EE Field Workers
§ OJT held at a local school (majority of students coming from the slums)
§ 33 out of 40 students prayed to receive Christ
I thoroughly enjoyed the OJT. The principal of the school said to me, “You truly have a way with children. They usually find it very difficult to interact with others using English. We were so surprised at the way they responded with you as you taught them Gospel action songs, games, and shared the Gospel. We need to pray for our very own ‘Sarah’ here in Mumbai. We wish you could stay longer and help teach.”
During the Kids workshop, my EE boss Rod Story shared some interesting facts that touched my heart and made me understand even more the importance of children’s ministry and evangelism.
Out of the world’s population of about 6 billion, 1.68 billion are children under the age of 14. Of that 1.68 billion children about 6 million live in poverty, disease, substance abuse, or broken homes. And 26,000 children in that age range die everyday. Just imagine what percentage of those 26,000 children knew Jesus as their personal Savior and Lord? Makes you step back and wonder.
Since returning from India, I have been busy with varying things. I taught another Hope for Kids workshop at a church near my flat. I have also been assisting the Fijian EE workers with several clinics as well as participating in the young adult ministry at La’s church.
This past week I had the opportunity to be involved with the young people at La’s church for the youth service on Sunday. I was able to take part in the special performances of Fijian dance and song. On Friday we had an all-night practice. 30 young people gathered for fellowship, fun, and a great time of worship and prayer. I was so happy to be part of the group! During the service I was able to do the welcome and icebreaker as well as perform. The theme was “It’s Now or Never” – a challenge to the youth to make a decision now to fulfill God’s calling on our lives.
Over the weekend I was also able to visit one of the EE workers and his family. I spent time with them last year. Their family has been a huge encouragement to my ministry. Pastor Manoa and his wife just had their 6th children in March. Pastor Manoa’s wife was pregnant the other kids had kept saying, “Mom we know it’s going to be a girl and we have to name her Sarah so we never forget Sarah!” I was so touched they had named their daughter after me! Here in Fiji when someone is named after you or has the same name as you, you call them your namesake or in Fijian,“yaca” (pronounced “ya-tha”).
I praise God for the place I have been residing and the people I have been surrounded by. It has brought me great joy to fellowship with young people who make me feel loved and cherished. God continues to sustain me amidst the busyness of ministry. Also, at my flat we finally got a refrigerator! After searching and searching and not wanting to compromise my budget, the Lord provided one for FREE! What an amazing blessing!
Thank you all your prayers and support! Your heart for giving to missions is touching the lives of many children, young people, and ministry leaders in Fiji and beyond. The ministry I’m part of here is continuing to expand in so many wonderful ways! Be blessed. ~ Sarah Abadines
Friday, July 30, 2010
Oso oso i cakacaka ni Turaga....busy busy is the work of the Lord
As we say in Fiji – God is good all the time….and all the time God is good!
It has now been a week since the interns departed for their home countries. During our last morning together, we sat in a circle sharing and reflecting. It was a blessing to hear what they have learned and how God has impacted them during the trip. I give God glory for equipping me to co-lead this mission trip for young men and women who are about the same age as me. Then with many hugs and tears we all said our goodbyes. I am going to definitely miss the fellowship. They have become very close to my heart.
From July 10-20 our team was in Vanuatu to help an Australian team run EE clinics. Vanuatu consists of 80 small islands. Christianity is one of the major religions. The popular denominations include Presbyterian, Catholic, and Anglican. We spent time on two different islands, Efate and Santo. The culture in Vanuatu is very different from Fiji – less welcoming and safe. And most of their food lacked flavor and spices. The people were more conservative and villages were more primitive than here in Fiji. It was very interesting to stay there. The locals are called “Ni-vans”. Our first few days there I got to have quality time with one of my best Fijian girlfriends who moved there to work. It was so good to catch up wit her! She helped our team settle into Vanuatu culture.
EE has been present in Vanuatu for over twenty years! There are currently four local EE field workers with two being added in a few months. Our team and the Australian team worked together to conduct an EE clinic for adults and youth in a local church while I taught a Hope for Kids workshop with children’s leaders outside under a massive tent. All the trainees were lovely people with a heart for witnessing. 25 people were trained in the adult/youth clinic, and 10 people were trained in the kids workshop. The Hope for Kids workshop that I conducted lasted 3 days. Each day was long and intense. By the last day, my voice was feeling extremely strained. Kids workshops entail so much such as playing different games and activities, singing songs, doing crafts. I praise God for giving me enough energy to push through.
For the workshop OJT, we gathered 35 kids from the surrounding area who had just finished their school day where 29 of them prayed to receive Jesus. We taught them action songs and hand motions of the Gospel presentation. Later that evening we had a church rally where I was able to help lead the praise & worship and perform cultural dances. It was great fun! Then our team was divided into small groups to share the Gospel with those who had been invited from the community. I was able to share with 8 children. Their eyes were glistening and wide-open as they hung on my every word. I knew God was moving right then and there. Each child prayed to receive Jesus. I came to tears as I prayed with the children individually. It was beautiful.
Please be praying for:
Name - Age
Anisa – 12
Roslyne – 11
Rosela - 11
Rosina – 12
Lovuk – 10
Masten – 6
Anna – 8
Jenny – 9
Linda – 10
Alicia – 9
Let me share with you the story of the 6 year old boy Masten. The other school kids told me that he and his sister Rosina come from a broken home. Their parents divorced and abandoned them. Some relatives are now looking after them. I learned that children in class 1 through 8 are able to attend school for free through government aid. However children in kindergarten must pay school fees. Masten was supposed to be in kindergarten this year, but the relatives did not have any money to pay for Masten to go to school. I felt sad for this child who couldn’t help the circumstances he had been placed in. I asked Masten if he liked school and wanted to go to school. He said yes very much. The next day I talked to his Sunday School teacher who was one of my trainees. I asked him how much the school fees were for kindergarten. He said that it cost 7,000 Vatu (Vanuatu currency) for the school year plus 2,000 Vatu for a school uniform and backpack. 9,000 Vatu is $90 USD. I was moved right then and there to bless Masten by providing the funds needed for him to get through kindergarten. For me personally as a teacher, education is so important! It makes such a difference in their future. Later that morning the Sunday school teacher shared with those attending the clinics and our teams of Masten’s situation. He came to tears as he shared with everyone how he is now being sponsored to go to school. I was able to hand Masten an envelope with the funds needed. He was smiling from ear to ear. So precious!
Please be praying for those who were trained and witnessed to in Vanuatu as the local EE staff carry on the ministry there.
Right now I am spending quality time with my sister Sheilah, who arrived in Fiji on July 23rd. She will be here til August 8th. It’s been such a joy for me to show her my life here personally and in ministry. She has been able to have mission and cultural experiences as well as see the beauty of the Fiji Islands!
Continue to be richly blessed,
Sarah Abadines
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Me cecere ka rokovi na Turaga (To God be the glory!)
Me cecere ka rokovi na Turaga (To God be the glory!)
It has almost been a month now since returning to Fiji. Despite being absent during April and May, it feels like I never left. I have such peace and joy in continuing to do the Lord’s work here. I have really enjoyed catching up with my close friends here and people I consider family, and I have settled back into my home here at the EE Training Centre. During this past month I have been co-leading the Fiji Interns Course with Langdon Stewart (EE Vice President for Oceania). We are just now finishing the fourth week of the six-week course.
Overseas Interns:
Megan DeGraaf – Florida
Karen Williams – Florida
Rebecca Carritt – Australia
Lenny Bryant – Australia
Sharon Lee – Korea
Viviene Voon – Malaysia
Local Fijian Interns:
Lavenia Aditora (full-time EE worker & co-leader in last December’s youth course)
Rajani Naickar (full-time EE worker & participant in last December’s youth course)
Wilson Kumar (full-time EE worker & participant in last December’s youth course)
Elenoa Toloi
Vesiruna
Pita Botaloga
The mission team has meshed very well and has grown to be a little family. We have definitely kept the participants busy. These young people are individuals who are trying to identify God’s calling in their lives. They are all interested in one way or another in the field of missions or full-time ministry. Our prayer is that this trip will allow them to really take the time to sit at the feet of Jesus and be in His presence seeking His Will for them. Intentional time with the Lord has been a great focus.
The past four weeks the team has had ample opportunities to reach out to the community and experience Fijian culture. We have hosted a school assembly at a Christian primary school, spent quality time with children in an orphanage & donated supplies, attended a local youth rally, conducted a youth EE clinic, performed a service project in a village, and stayed a few days in a village up in the highlands.
During the Youth EE Clinic we trained 15 youth and went out on several OJTs. One trainee, Kolaia, was so moved by clinic. On his last OJT he was able to share the entire Gospel presentation with a family. He was so encouraged to see how God could use him to draw other people to salvation. When he testified about the OJT to the group, I was brought to tears. As a result of the OJTs 63 contacts and 39 people prayed to receive Jesus.
The village we visited in the highlands was a village I stayed in for over a week last September. It was so wonderful to see the people there again and fellowship with them, especially the youth. They served us in so many ways and the team was greatly blessed. The church service on Sunday was over three hours of hearing God’s Word, special performances, testimonies, and amazing Fijian style praise and worship. In this village were two youth who attended the Youth Course I conducted last December – Aseri and Tevita. I was able to spend some one-on-one time with them. I was so encouraged to hear how God is raising them up as leaders among their youth and congregation. I was able to pray with them along with the interns who were also part of the December youth course. During our prayer session we all began to cry praising God for being able to be together again and continuing to serve in ministry. Tears poured from me as I felt so blessed to be part of their lives and for them to be my family away from home.
I have truly seen these young people on the team grow and transform. They have a passion for the Lord and a heart for the lost. I praise God for being able to serve as a mentor to them in different ways. Plus I have learned so much in leadership and have gained lots of love and insight from each person in the group. I have enjoyed sharing my story with them and being there to answer any questions about ministry and mission work. I’m so excited to see how God uses each one of them in future!
This Saturday our team will be flying to Vanuatu (another island nation in the South Pacific) to join an Australian mission team to conduct another Youth EE Clinic. While the team is running the youth clinic, I will be teaching a separate workshop - Hope for Kids. I am excited to experience another culture in this area of the world and equip more people in witnessing!
Prayer Needs:
Clinic in Vanuatu – team responsibilities
Individual interns – discovering God’s calling on their lives
My leadership role and duties
Upcoming youth ministry events I will be running
Serving wholeheartedly,
Sarah Abadines
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