for Mitch McCaskill

This is from Brent's journeyman friend headed to west Africa soon.

Faithful Ones,

It is week two of orientation. It has been very busy so far, and the Lord has already taught me so very much. This week is devoted mainly to learning about and preparing for spiritual warfare. It has been amazing to meet so many people who are pursuing their call to the nations. I have many assignments to complete during the next 7 weeks including books and articles to read and papers to write. God is truly doing a great work in my heart ... a work of preparation and cleansing. I have been reminded this past week that God is not at all counting on me or my abilities and talents, for He has called me and He will be faithful to work through me (1 Thes. 5:24) if I am obedient to His Spirit's leading. Thank you for your prayers...

Things to Pray For:
- the Bambara people in Mali
- Steve & Susan in Mali
- discipline in my walk with Christ
- Elbert as he leads this orientation

--
By His Grace,
mitch mccaskell

Ella Grace is here!

She was born about 4:10pm this afternoon.
6lb 10oz.
19 inches

Mom and baby are doing great. Glo is recovering from natural delivery and Ella Grace is getting used to florescent lights and August in Texas.

Daniel is a proud daddy and just lost voting equality at his house. Pictures at danielandgloria.blogspot.com

Eleanor Grace Cooley

Just a quick note to let you all know that Gloria and I are at the hospital. Eleanor Grace should arrive sometime today, August 12, 2008. You can check our blog for updates. No promises are being made, but we will try and update as time permits.

danielandgloria.blogspot.com

Update: Jared Knowles

Jared was taken to a small hospital, but has since been moved to a larger hospital with better facilities. Jared's lungs are believed to be clear of fluids and he has been taken off all tubes and is asking to eat.

They are scheduled to leave on Saturday. Please pray as they make their journey home for safety and health. Please pray for Randy as he is a single parent due to the passing of his wife from cancer about 2 years ago. Pray that God would be honored in their efforts to serve His people in another place.

Jared Knowles

Randy (dad) and twins Jared & Kelsey Knowles are friends of many at GP.

They are on a mission trip with Park City Baptist and have been in Guatemala since Sat. night.

This a.m. (8/07) Jared was swimming in the pool at the hotel. He evidentially had a seizure and was under water 2 or 3 minutes before anyone realized that something was wrong and got him out. He was taken to the nearby hospital facility where they have begun to revive him... HE apparently still has water in him that they have to get out. and he is was taken to a nearby city with a bigger/better hospital for treatment.

Incidentally, Randy, Jared and Kelsey lost their wife and mother, Laura, to cancer last year.

Update: Scheffer News

Grace Point Family,

Shelly and I would like to announce that God has blessed us with a healthy baby boy! Attached are sonogram pics if you want the proof in the pudding! Please feel free to share the news with those who would like to know! Thanks for your continued prayers!

Trey and Shelly

Update: Gloria Cooley's Brother, Thomas

Thomas had a dialysis port placed on Wednesday. He began outpatient dialysis on Wednesday as well. He is recovering at home now. Thank you for you prayers and continued support. Please continue to lift up this family.