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Ramallah Partnership Information

God is doing greater work than we ever imagined in Ramallah. Pastor Jay Abernathy and Steve Jenkins were in Ramallah in May 2008 with a team from Buckner to examine the possiblity working with the at-risk children of the West Bank. Below is a blog of the trip.

In 2007, FBC Palestine sent a team to work alongside the Ramallh Local Church in a Bible Camp for local children.

In 2006, Pastor Jay Abernathy and Breck Quarles went to examine our beginning partnership in Ramallah with our Palestinian Christian brethren.

(Entries are in reverse calender order. Most recent entries and trips are at the top.)

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

Now that "jet lag" has subisided a bit, it is time to reflect our time with the Kakishes and the Buckner team in Ramallah.

     It looks like God is opening a door there to minister with many children, women and families. The need is great and both the Palestinian and Ramallah governments are aware and want to do something about it. (Their compassion and vision for their people is touching.)

     Now, we need to prayerfully consider if and how we can help.  Buckner is thinking about their next steps too. So, keep expecting to see how God lets our church be a part of changing the world with Him, and brining the message of Peace to the children of the West Bank in the Holy Land.

Friday morning, May 2, 2008

This should be the last entry until Steve and I arrive home on Saturday. Until then, let's keep praying for each other as we serve the Lord Jesus Christ and His beloved world (John 3:16).

     Last night we worshipped in a packed room with the Ramallah church. It was a weeknight. I wonder how many American churches get crowded on weeknights. Here, they are so glad to be saved they can't wait to get together and worship, even though it sometimes brings difficulty. Albert Reyes of Buckner <read his blog here> preached about our place of service in the world. He did a great job. After the joyful service we went to eat at Pizza Inn with the boys from the home. May 1 is Pastor Kakish's birthday so we all had a big celebration with cake and coffee. The boys received gifts that we brought with us too.

     Today, we will visit Masada and the Dead Sea. Several of the boys at the home have permits from the Israeli government to travel outside the West Bank, so they are going with us. It will be more fun to see the joy on their faces than to see the historical places of this Holy Land.

     Thanks again for reading this column and praying for us. I look forward to seeing the members of FBC Palestine this Sunday. God bless you!

Thursday afternoon, May 1, 2008

It is the National Day of Prayer in the USA. It's time to thank God for our nation AND pray for our current situation and future direction. Many of you will gather at events and pray. As you do, please remember to pray that our nation would consider more ways to change the world through acts of kindness, not violence.

     Here, we traveled to Jerusalem where the greatest act of grace happened in the midst of violence - Jesus Christ was crucified, buried, and rose (Hallelujah!) The team left the West Bank through the checkpoint and went to the Mount of Olives. We walked down to the Garden of Gesthemene. Visiting the last places where Jesus resolved to do the will of God, even though it cost Jesus His life, is inspiring.

     From the Mount of Olives you can see Jerusalem. We went to the Garden Tomb (see entries below for more info), the Via Dolorosa, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre, and the Western Wall. It was at the Western Wall where I was struck by the way Jesus said for us to pray in secret, not for show as others do. Yes, I prayed there, but I thanked God that He heard my prayers not because of the place I prayed, or the manner in which I pray. He hears my prayers because His Son, the Messiah, is my Savior!

     We returned to Ramallah through the Qalandia checkpoint. It was backed up, so we were delayed while soldiers checked out the vehicles. We had no problem, so after we passed through we went to lunch in a village outside Ramallah. The food was great. (One more reason to come visit.)

     In an hour we will go to visit the orphanage and have church services with the Ramallah church. It should be a good connection time for the Buckner team, us, and the local believers.

     Keep praying daily for all nations.

Wednesday afternoon, April 30, 2008

The big reason for this visit to the Holy Land was to see what the needs were and what resources were available meeet those needs.  Then, Lord willing, we can consider ways to do ministry in the name of Jesus Christ in the West Bank. Specifically, this has been about learning from the work of Home of New Life, meeting with local government officials, and considering what resouces Buckner has to offer for needy children and families.

    We met with Palestinian government officials and Ramallah municipal leadership. I have to say that I am very impressed with the intelligence and compassion of these people. They want a vital and healthy community with democracy and opportunity.  Like anyone should, they want a great future for their children.

    I was emotionally moved in the meetings as I felt that I was getting to see things God has been weaving together for a very long time.  Each of the entities FBCP is connected with (Home of New Life and Buckner) are committed to their respective visions and it is great to see them trying to find connections that help all of the West Bank. The openness of the government to our work here surpasses what I would expect by a longshot. In other words, I am not saying that anything for certain is occuring, but it is wonderful to be a part of the conversations that will affect the message of Peace in this land.

    Tonight, we travelled to Ramla. This city near Tel Aviv is not in the West Bank, but has an Arab Baptist Church started 28 years ago by Pastor Kakish and the Association of Baptist Churches in Israel. You FBCP members may remember how we helped them with an offering last year to get into a location of their own. (They were meeting in a room about the size of a garage.) Now, with the renovations done, the church is self-sufficient and has helped start four other churche in the area. I had the blessed opportunity to preach there tonight. Afterwards we fellowshipped (translation: eating lots of cookies!) It was a sweet time to be with this congregation.

    Thank you Lord Jesus for letting me see this today!

Tuesday night, April 29, 2008

We arrived back in Ramallah this evening after picking up the Buckner team at the airport in Tel Aviv and spending two days of "getting to know you" time by visiting some of the Holy Land sites in Galilee. It is beyond description to write how it feels to walk the land where Jesus Christ taught, healed, fed, and loved the crowds. It helps the purpose of our visit here to remember that we too must continue to love and serve as Jesus did, in His name.

     There are too many sites to describe in detail here, and each person is moved in different ways, but I must speak of one that means so much to me. There is a small church we visited on the shore of the Sea of Galilee where Jesus said to Peter, "Do you love me?" and Peter replied, "Yes, Lord. You know that I love you!" Jesus said to him, "Then feed my sheep." Three times that exchange occurred, some believe it is because Jesus is restoring Peter after his three denials of Jesus the night before the Crucifixion. I believe so, but additionally, Jesus is solidifying the mission of Peter and Jesus' church to tend to those in our care. Here, with the Kakishes and with Buckner we are seeking ways to increase the care for those who, like sheep, cannot care for themselves.

    Now, we are back behind the walls of the West Bank where there are many living in difficult conditions who need help. Tomorrow, we continue more examining discussions with the local government officials to find out more about the needs for children in Ramallah and the West Bank. Please pray that we would all have great wisdom about how to proceed from here.

Sunday (Noon), April 27, 2008

Today is Easter on the Eastern Orthodox Calendar and the Arabic churches hosted an Easter Service at the Garden Tomb in Jerusalem. Pastor Kakish was the coordinator of the day's service which was very well attended (even though traveling is very difficult from the West Bank.) The attendees were diverse - Arab Christians, Messianic Jews, Missionaries, and Tourists.  The choir from Alliance Church in Jerusalem led the praise time, the Pastor of East Jerusalem church brought the message. It was about how Christians should be joyful because of the resurrection. He is so right. I know we let ourselves feel so defeated sometimes, but remembering the victory of the empty tomb sure does help!

     Pastor Kakish invited me to bring a greeting from our church and it was my honor to do so. I told them how we felt a love for them and that we were the beneficiaries of those obedient to the great commission. Afterwards, some people came up to me really wondering if there was a Palestine, Texas! We all had a great time at the service in the most moving location you could be - right next to the Garden Tomb, a great representation of the first century tomb that held Jesus' body for only three days, but then El Meseeah Kaam! (Christ Arose!)

Saturday (bedtime), April 26, 2008

Okay, if you've been keeping up, you're probably thinking all we've done the past two days is hang out and have fun. You're right! Being in Ramallah with brothers and sisters in Christ has been good for them and us. Tomorrow, the work part begins as we get up early and go to Jerusalem for an Easter Service at the Garden Tomb site. There will be Arab Christians and Messianic Jews at the service together. The Resurrection unites us all, praise God. It is my privilege to bring a greeting from our church to the assembly too.

     Today, we were able to Sabbath and I caught up on some reading and writing in the morning. As I was overlooking the hills of Ramallah from the Kakish's back garden, a goatherder went by with his flock. After they grazed a while, he walked ahead and called to them. They raised their heads and began to follow. I recalled what Jesus said in John 10:4 "...he goes before them, and the sheep follow him because they know his voice." Please pray for the Kakishes, the Buckner leadership, and us as we listen for the voice of Jesus in our meetings next week.

     In the afternoon we went with a family from the Ramallah church to the "Saturday of Light" parade. Held in downtown Ramallah, it signifies the spreading of the Good News of the Resurrection as the flame from a lamp is passed among the parade goers.  It is an orthodox tradition, but the believers were around understood it as only symbolic of our task - we must carry the light to the darkness.

    The parade was more of a festival as the extremely large crowd lined the streets. I loved the excitement in the crowds.  You could feel the joy in everyone. The weather was beautiful and the mood was contagious. A large part of the parade is an opportunity for the local villages to showcase their drum corps. Young men and women, boys and girls were in "scout" uniforms showing off their drumming skills and having fun. I have to tell you, they were all very, very good! There were also some bagpipe brigades, a holdover from the days of British occupation (100 years ago.)

     For those of you who wonder what Ramallah is like, it is like any other large city full of people who want to enjoy life. We felt welcomed and safe among very hospitable and friendly people. You should try visiting sometime.

     Tomorrow evening we pick up the Buckner team at the airport and travel to Galilee to meet and tour. We will talk more and they will get to hear the vision of the Kakishes. I will not have internet access, so I will post again when we return on Tuesday night.

    To my wonderful church family, I say, thank you for your prayers and participatin in the ministry here. You are making a difference in Palestine, Texas and the world. Your spirit is known and loved among people here as you show Jesus Christ for who He really is. I can't wait to return and be among you next week. Until then, please keep praying and stay in touch.

Friday evening, April 25, 2008

Today we had a tourist kind of day, getting acclimated to the time change and all. Sharon Kakish took us into Jerusalem. Pastor Munir, as pastors do, had to work and go with the children of the church to a conference in Bethlehem. All of us had a very good day. 

     Here, they observe the Eastern Orthodox calendar, making today "Good Friday." It makes sense too, because that way Easter follows Passover (like it did in Jesus' day.) That said, people from the Orthodox traditions were packed into Jerusalem to visit the sites and walk the Via Dolorosa (the Way of Suffering) as we were going to do.

     We followed the steps of Jesus first to the Mount of Olives where we viewed Jerusalem. We could see the large crowds gathering around the Dome of the Rock (gold dome building in the Day 2, picture 1) for their Islamic prayer time. It was mid-day on Friday, the Moslem holy day. It burdens my heart to see so many people in Jerusalem trying to seek God, but not knowing God through the Son, Jesus Christ.

     Then, we visited the grounds of the Garden Tomb. This place is a great representation of what a first century garden and tomb would've looked like, even if it is unlikely to be the actual tomb where Christ's body was placed on Good Friday (Good News here: God raised Him on Easter Sunday.) We'll be back at the Garden Tomb on Sunday (Easter Sunday on the Orthodox calendar) for an Easter Sunrise service, so I'll write more about our visit there next week.

     Next we entered the "old city" of Jerusalem through the Damascus gate. It was very crowded as we made our way along the Via Dolorosa (the Way of Suffering) because of the Good Friday pilgrims.  We had plenty of time at the ancient site of the pool of Bethesda, examining the ancient ruins of the churches built over the place where Jesus healed the man beside the pool. Places like that are moving to me because it helps me keep in context the ancient history of our Faith.

    As we walked from the Bethesda site through the stations of the cross along the Via Dolorosa, there were many people. I thought about the crowds that were in Jerusalem two thousand years ago for the Passover.  How many of them were talking that day about the Rabbi from Nazareth that had performed miracles and spoken wise truths that was now carrying a cross? Did they feel as if they had been let down by another supposed Messiah? I am so glad to be on the other side of Sunday in that story, because the Via Dolorosa is not a place where we were failed by our deliverer. Instead, it is a road to Victory, to Resurrection, to a Redeemed world.  I can walk in Hope because of the living Lord Jesus Christ!

     At the end of the path is the Church of the Holy Sepulchre.  This spot is likely where Jesus' tomb was located. What is amazing about this place is that several ancient churches share the real estate, albeit uneasily. There is a lot of territorialism so you see Greek Orthodox, Catholic, Lutheran, and other priests with all thier "churches" within this one building. Two examples of their inablilty to unite include the lock to the door and a ladder above the entrance. Because they couldn't agree, the ruler of Jerusalem had to give responsiblity of unlocking and locking the building to two Muslim families. They have the keys to the buliding (see the picture of the lock at right.) The ladder over the entrance has been there a hundred years because no one really knows who it belongs too and who is supposed to move it. So, to avoid a confrontation, it remains in place, a "monument" to the turf issues in the church building. I am so grateful that the Word says in Christ we are one. I really pray these could come together and demonstrate what Jesus is truthfully about.

    Tonight we had traditional Palestinian cookout. It was just like home, good grilled chicken and good friends.

Thursday Evening, April 24, 2008

We had a great trip over. Flights on time, seats good, baggage arrived. It doesn't always happen that way, but it did this time, and I thank God for it.

   The only "hiccup" in the journey was when we checked in for our flight at DFW airport. The counter clerk looked at Steve's passport, tossed it back to him saying, "You can't use this passport, sir. It's illegal." Well, neither Steve nor I knew what the clerk meant and our hearts sank for a moment until the clerk (the one with the twisted sense of humor) said, "just kidding, you need to sign it." So Steve signed his brand new passport, and we were on our way.

    That made me think about our place as citizens in Christ's Kingdom. You see, our national passports belong to the sovreign nation, but we must choose to endorse them to show our allegiance to the nation. Likewise Salvation belongs to God, and He grants it to us through Jesus Christ, but we must willfully endorse His gift for our Heavenly "passports" to be effective and begin the journey.

Now, for Ramallah:

We arrived on time, Sharon Kakish picked us up and carried us to their home (the Kakishes are gracious hosts). After a quick moment to recoup we went to the Thursday evening service of the Ramallah Local Church. It is Holy Week here because they observe the Eastern Orthodox calendar (that also means it is Passover week.) So, we had a "Lord's Supper" service with our sister church. It was so moving. I couldn't understand the language (Arabic), but when it came time to break the bread and drink the cup, it was clear I was among fellow believers who were as overwhelmed as me with the love of God.

     After the service, I renewed old friendships and Steve made new friends. These folk are so keenly aware of their dependence on God that it blows me away. At home we worry about the a/c, the sound system, the music, and parking. Here, where life is difficult enough they are glad to gather, praise God, and love one another. Sounds like the church that is close to where it all began 2,000 years ago is still following the plan that works.

     For those of you worried about other important matters like, "what are ya'll gonna eat?" We had pizza at Pizza Inn in Ramallah for supper. Good night. God bless you all.

Ramallah Partnership Trip - July, 2007

FBCP is continues to work in Ramallah, West Bank, Israel as our partnership with the Ramallah Christian Outreach ministry grows. Pastor Munir Kakish will be visiting FBC Palestine, on Sunday, August 12.

  Recently, a team worked with a Summer Camp that is part of the work of the Ramallah Church, ministering to 60 children.  A daily log of their trip is posted below. Latest posts are at the top:

The Spirit Teaches and Touches, July 6

(Posted by Breck Quarles)

Friday, June 6 - Last day of camp.

The kids were wonderful. We shared the story of Daniel in the lion's den and then made pillows to remind them how we can rest in the Lord in any circumstance. We would have said our goodbyes, however, Pastor Kakish asked us to return to the camp Tuesday and present the gospel with an invitation to recieve Christ. Please pray for the kids and for us.

This afternoon, Linda and Cameron visited the Old City of Jerusalem. I'll let them share their experiences in a different post. (See Linda's post below.)

I (Breck) went to the church to meet with the college group. After presenting a short lesson, we spent over two hours in prayer and worship. The meeting started at five o'clock and didn't end until after eight. I think I worked harder in prayer tonight than I did all week in camp. God is obviously working in the young people of the church as they seek Him and desire to grow in Christ.

Tomorrow we get a day off as we head to Bethlehem and then south towards Nazareth for the day.

Thanks again for your prayers. We love ya'll.

(Posted by Linda Love)

Today Cameron and I had the opportunity to go to Jerusalem to the Old City. (Breck has been) Dena, Rand, and Aseel (people from the church) were our guides.  We had the opportunity of riding on a shared taxi.

When we arrived at the Kalyndia Check Point, Dena and her girls were made to get off the taxi and go into a building where Arabs have to have a special check. Israeli soldiers got on our bus and checked each of our passports. Then the bus drove into the Arab checkpoint and picked up the girls and off we went. In about 5 minutes we went through another checkpoint where each of us had to show our passports. The grace of God is so evident in Dena and her girls’ lives…no bitterness or hatred comes from their mouth, even though they are certainly not free.

We entered the Old City at the Damascus Gate.  We went through the streets where Jesus walked.  I was so excited.  It was as if I was walking right with the Lord. Looking down each side street and up the stairs to little upper rooms was so real to me.  The reason I liked the Old City is that it seemed real to me and not just a shrine that has been established.  I am not expressing this as I want. I can’t. My spirit is so tender to what the Lord would be saying to each of us.

As we were heading to the Wailing Wall, Dena informed us that she had never been in that area because Arabs were not allowed. Someone in the marketplace informed her that she could maybe get in because she was traveling with Americans.  She and her girls made it!! Praise the Lord. We entered the Wailing Wall at 7:00 Friday, the beginning of Sabbath, so we were right in the middle of every sect of Judaism you can imagine. There was much hoop-de-la from the young Jewish boys and girls. This was not rejoicing to me, because here a precious Christian and her girls would not be allowed.  Our prayer was that the people who were praying would see the truth and realize that Messiah has come and can reside in each of their lives.

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The Spirit "blows where it wills", July 5

(Posted by Breck Quarles)

Thursday, July 5, 2007 - Today was a true learning experience. We learned that Middle Eastern plaster of Paris (known here as gypsum) hardens in about 5 minutes under ideal conditions. We didn't have ideal conditions. We were making the Mosaics that we have done in our VBS and the plaster kept hardening before the kids could finish (and they were really moving fast.) Fortunately, we got it figured out before the day was done and everyone had fun. A couple of positives came out of the experience. First, we were able to connect with several kids we had been praying for. Second, we had planned on doing the activity on Monday, but our luggage with the frames didn't make it. If we had tried it that first day, I can't imagine what our week would have been like. God knew what He was doing even if we didn't.

Tomorrow is our last day of summer camp. The kids have one more week. Dina (pronounced Dee-na), the camp director, asked us if we could extend our stay until next Friday. It was tempting as we have really connected with the kids. It will be hard to say goodbye. Hopefully, it will only be "see you later."

Also, tomorrow afternoon Linda and Cameron will visit the old city of Jerusalem. Breck will stay behind to attend the college group at the church.

God has worked in all of our lives this week and we can't wait to share when we get back. Thank you once again for your prayers. We love ya'll.

(Posted by Linda Love)

Well, what can you say when everything you did seemed awkward, and yet you could see the hand of God moving and showing you why!!! Breck felt that his story was not like he wanted it to be, the mosaic craft was one lumpy disaster until we got the situation going. The gypsum, not at all what we have used, dried in, well lets just say you did not have time to even blink before you had concrete!!! Help!! Where was Debbie L? We got a situation going, and the kids loved what they were doing. All of our team was together and moving to make it all happen.  Thinking back over the disaster, we realized how the Lord knew we needed to probably not have our luggage, because we were supposed to do the mosaics the first day. YIKES!!!!!

At the close of the day we were reviewing why we were making a mosaic fish. We had brought those cute little Jesus fish necklaces for each child.  They all began clapping and saying thank you. They have been so grateful. Everything we have taught them has had a take home as a reminder of what has been taught in the Bible stories.They love it all and wear it proudly each dayy!!!  

Thank you to a church that has allowed the kind of VBS we have had for the past 5 years, because it has given us incredible ideas to use for teaching.  What we've brought has been what you have taught in the past. Pray that each story, memory verse, song, and craft is used to glorify God and to grow children in the love and knowledge of Jesus.   

Tomorrow will be our last day at VBS.  We all are sad, because we have formed a real love for the children and adults. Cameron has decided to stay!! Not really, Carol and Vinton.  

Read Genesis 12:1-3 and ask the Lord to give you complete understanding of exactly what HE was directing Abraham to do!! For me, a very familiar text, has taken on new meaning!  May the Holy Spirit guide us as we seek to know the word of God!
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The Spirit of Freedom, July 4

(Posted by Breck Quarles)

Wednesday, July 4, 2007-Happy Independence Day!! Joe, our British friend here said (with tongue in cheek) that they just got bored with the colonies and sent over all their criminals dressed as soldiers. We Yanks know better, though.

We were able to share the gospel during the opening activities of camp today. Pray that God would use it to His glory. After that, the Korean team ran the rest of the day. We were able to play and connect with the kids. Great day!

After camp, we visited the Dead Sea and Galilee. All three of us covered ourselves with Dead Sea mud and had a natural spa treatment. On the way there, the streets of Ramallah were full of Palestinian Security Force soldiers. We don't know what was going on, but when we returned the streets were quiet.

Tomorrow, after camp, we have a rest day and then worship with the Ramallah church. Thank you for prayers. We love ya'll.

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The Spirit Moves, July 3

(Posted by Breck Quarles)

Today's summer camp went like a charm, especially now that we have our materials.
We are in charge of the opening ceremony (Bible lesson, memory verse, songs) and crafts. There is a Korean team doing two other activities. Along with Joe, a summer volunteer from England, this truly is an outreach of the nations to the nations. Isn't God cool?

The children are beautiful. They are so open to learning and interacting with us.

After camp, we walked to downtown Ramallah with Joe as our tour guide. We visited the open market and met several interesting people. We were obviously visitors as the vendors gave us lots of free samples of food. We also went to Stars and Bucks, Ramallah's alternative to Starbucks. Linda thought she was in paradise.

Tonight, we worshipped with the congregation in Ramla.
Their new building is such a major change from where they were. Breck had the chance to renew several relationships in the church. We were able to share that they are being prayed for by the church in Palestine, Texas.

Thank you for your prayers, They are evident by the response we are getting from the kids. We love ya'll.

(This post is written by Linda Love, FBC Palestine's Children's Minister.)

We just arrived home from being at Bible School!! What an awesome opportunity to see how the Lord works in the lives of people all over the world.  Even though we can't understand the language of the Koreans or the Palestinians, the smiles and hearts are just like ours...looking to serve the Lord in the ways HE would desire. The Ramallah Church is equipped with people like FBC who are so available, working with such joy. No grumbling, because they are so thankful for the provisions the Lord has made!  

This morning as I was writing in my journal, I read a quote that Debbie has written in my journal..."Place all the hous of this day quite simply at His disposal, and ask Him to make and keep you ready to do just exactly what He appoints" Frances Havergal. Since I was not sure what my place was for the day, that was exactly what I needed to say, "Where and what??" As always, the Lord step by step revealed the day.  What a great God we serve.  

Thank you once again...   I love you all, Linda

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The Team Begins, July 2

(Posted by Breck Quarles, FBC MissionCom chair and trip leader)

Total dependence on God! That was only the way to describe our first day of camp. Our luggage (with all of our supplies) still has not arrived and we had to trust God for ideas for lesson materials and crafts.
Needless to say, we were strectched a bit. Breck presented the Bible story using a flannel board (the first time he's ever done that), Linda led the song (without music), and Cameron did the memory verse.
Then we had the kids make door hangers using the memory verse. The kids were fantastic and very receptive. We also showed the slideshow from our VBS.
The kids here loved it.

Our luggage should be here today (Inshah Allah - "God Willing"). So, maybe then we will be on our "planned"
schedule. Thank you for your prayers.

(Note: The luggage arrived late Monday evening. The team has their luggage now and is ready to go for Tuesday, July 3.)

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The Team Arrives, July 1

Just a quick report-We had a great worship this morning with the Ramallah church. It was three culture worship with our group, the Korean team, and the Palestinian members. After church, we were able to visit Hebron and Bethlehem. Eyes were opened to the situation here as we saw the wall throughout the West Bank.

Still no baggage, but hopefully tomorrow. Pray for us as we trust God to help us tomorrow on the first day of camp as all of our materials for crafts and music are in the luggage.

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The Team Travels, June 29-30

We made it, albeit without luggage.  Our flight was delayed in Dallas and we were the last ones to board the plane in Atlanta.  We literally ran through the airport in Atlanta from Concourse A to E because the train was not moving. Linda was doing her marathon pace.  The trip was uneventful otherwise.

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Ramallah Partnership Trip - May, 2006

We Leave - Thursday, May 4 - 6pm

Breck and I are at DFW about to board our plane, so this is brief.  Thanks FBCP, and all you other prayer supporters for getting us launched on this trip.  We are both excited about making new friends in Ramallah. Pray for us to be very aware of what God is wanting us to see every day. 

This morning we arose, and went to church.  Sounds a lot like home, right.  Only thing, is the words were in Arabic.  Even so, God was praised.  Dr. Hurst and Breck shared testimony.  Pastor Jay preached from 1John 4.  The congregation crowded into the room (see picture) even though many were gone for a wedding.  Afterward we had lunch with the boys at the home and gave them the gifts many of you sent.  They loved them!

Now we are leaving for Nazareth where we will see some of the churches there and see the Holy Land sights.  Tuesday evening we will return to Ramla (near Tel Aviv) to worship with the Ramla Local Baptist Church.  It may be Tuesday before I post again.

Tuesday, May 9, 2006

Okay, it's Tuesday at 11:30pm Ramallah time and we are back, but I thought you should hear about things before I go to bed. Thank you for praying for us.  We are grateful for it and we need it.  We are doing very well after a very busy couple of days. If you want the details, read the recap of the past two days below.

SUNDAY, MAY 7, 2006 recap -

Escape from Ramallah

After worship and fellowship with the church in Ramallah, we came home, packed, and left to be a little "touristy" for a couple of days and see some of the Holy Land locations we've read about in Scripture and longed to see.

     Travel here is not easy.  Ramallah, is like being in a prison because the Israelis have built walls and put up guarded stations at all the roads that they allow open.  It felt as if we were escaping when we left Ramallah, West Bank. 

     We were headed to the usual checkpoint/crossing, but the traffic was backed up and turning around.  It was mass confusion.  So, pastor Kakish, turned around and we drove back through town, following two Red Cross Land Rovers to a checkpoint that only Red Cross, relief organizations, and foreign nationals can use.  To be brief, we almost were not allowed to leave Ramallah.  But, thanks be to God, Munir Kakish is experienced at this after 28 years in Ramallah.  What would have been a 10 minute drive in our country without checkpoints and guards turned into a one-and-a-half hour long detour.  After leaving Ramallah, we ran into another half-hour delay at another checkpoint near Tel-Aviv.  Two hours to go 15 miles.  It is the hassle these people live with every day just to get places.  We take much for granted.

Well, then were "in the clear" and headed north on a modern tollway that sped us toward Nazareth.  We met our new friend, Redwan (the assistant pastor at Ramla), in Nazareth where he lives and had some of the best pizza I've ever tasted.  You've gotta love the "hole in the wall" places! (I'm thankful for Shep's and Hamburger Bar back home.)   Then, since it was very late we went up to our lodging for the night - a old convent/orphanage that is now a hotel that overlooks the city of Nazareth.  After soaking in the nightime view, we went to sleep, wondering about the view we would find when we woke.

MONDAY, MAY 8, 2006 recap -

Touring Nazareth, Carmel, Haifa, and Tiberias (Sea of Galilee)

Wow! The morning view of Nazareth was breathtaking (see pic on the right.)  Here is this entry from my journal today:

...This "holy land" is replete with connection points to Almighty God.  Partly, I am drawn to worship "place" because God is here in the historical context.  Another part of me wants to be very wary of limiting God to "place".  Even Jacob had to confess that he had limited God's locations (see Genesis 28:16).  So does that mean that God is connecting with other "places" today?  Is there still "holy land" being created?  Can it be that the "holy ground" is happening in our hearts?

     We visited the Church of Annunciation built over what is believed to be Mary's house when she received the visit from the angel (Luke 1:26-38).  Then we saw the Church of Joseph that is supposedly where his carpenter shop was located.  Entering the location of the synagogue where Jesus preached (Luke 4:16-30) was a quieting experience.

     In Nazareth, we visited the Baptist Church and School.  They have 1,000 students in K-12th grade.  A church meets in the auditorium.  They have several hundred members and it is one of the largest evangelical churches in Israel.

     From Nazareth, we drove to Mt. Carmel where a monastery is lbuilt comemorating Elijah's confrontation with the priests of Baal (1Kings 18:18).  It is a high point where you can see across Megiddo.  And very far in all directions.  Elijah picked a place where what happened would be seen for miles around.  From Mt. Carmel we drove to Haifa, a beautiful modern port city on the Mediterranean coast.  It is also a site where Elijah is believed to have "holed up" when he fled Jezebel. 

     Next, to Tiberias, a vacation spot on the west coast of the Sea of Galilee.  It was late, so we had a supper of "Peter's Fish" and headed back to Nazareth.

TUESDAY, MAY 9, 2006 - A VERY LONG DAY Cana, Capernaum, Jordan River, and Ramla

Cana, is near Nazareth, and here we saw the is supposed to be near the spot where Jesus turned the water into wine (John 2:1) and we worshipped. 

     After Cana, to Capernaum.  We worshipped at the Mount of Beatitudes (Matthew 5-7).  Then we saw the ancient chapel marking the feeding of the five thousand with two fish and five loaves.  The mosaic floors are 1400 years old and beautiful.  Next the chapel where Peter was reaffirmed by Christ (John 21).  This place moved me, because I, like Peter need reaffirmation from the Lord (don't you?) 

     The ancient ruins of Capernaum are being excavated (see pic at right) and include a church over the location of Peter's house, and a reconstruction of the synagogue.  Here, Jesus taught and healed many.

     We had just enough time after leaving Capernaum to put our feet in the Sea of Galilee (mine went through the surface!) and take a boat ride.  We stopped briefly at the baptism location at the Jordan River (more moving than I thought it could be.) Then made the long drive to Ramla for the evening church service there.

    The Ramla Local Baptist Church is a vibrant, growing congregation in need of a new space.  They are renting a small room off of a house and are taking a leap of faith to rent a floor on the second floor of a building on the main street.  They believe they are ready to shine from the new location.  They need support prayerfully and financially as they make this move. Jay preached the message and of course Breck and he made more new friends.

     The trip back to Ramallah was late and in the dark.  The roads are not what you'd expect once you enter the West Bank.  They are unkept by the government and because of the road blocks on many roads they are over used.  In the dark it was a little scary, because bandits do sometimes stop the cars, but we were safe, nothing happened.  We arrived back in Ramallah from our "tourist" adventures and ministry time in Ramla safe, sound, and sleepy.

     Thank you for your prayers.  Pray for the people in the West Bank.  We have met many lovely people who simply live life as best they can under hard conditions.  The appear as pawns in this political struggle.  Pray for the evangelical believers who are far in the minority as they have the only true message of peace to bring to this Holy Land.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 10, 2006

STRATEGIZING AND SIGHTSEEING (OR MULTITASKING FOR THE LORD)

Okay, this is the one day we didn't actually do work in a church or school, but we felt the Lord accomplished much.  We had some fun alone time with just Breck, Jay and Pastor Kakish to talk about the real needs here.  We prayed together, traveled together, talked together, laughed together and ended the day so very happy about the time we spent.

After a good night's rest, we arose and washed clothes (our wives will be glad) then headed out to run a couple of errands.  By noon we were on the road to Jericho and the Dead Sea.  As we traveled we talked and dreamed of what partnering with the Ramallah Christian Outreach could mean for believers in Israel and Texas.

By the Dead Sea is the En Gedi preserve.  Here is the wadi (stream) that is by the cave where David hid from Saul.  Breck and Jay hiked up into the mountains for spectacular views of the Dead Sea.  Then to cool off we "swam" in the Dead Sea (you really cannot sink!)

As we were finishing our swim, Pastor Kakish received a phone call from Redwan (the assistant pastor of the Ramla Baptist Church) that the owner of the building agreed to a very low price that allows the church to purchase the right to rent the space (real estate works different here.)  This is a great answer to prayer!  Now, pray for the additional funds to come in as this church is taking a step of faith. (We at FBCP know what this is like, don't we?)

We made it through another checkpoint to go into Jericho.  Of course we saw the tree that claims to be the Sycamore that Zaccheus climbed, but it didn't look that old to us.  Still it was cool to be in this place that held so much history.  For the people here life is hard because of the restrictions.  They were very kind to us as we walked the streets (we were the only foreigners there.)

Now we are back in Ramallah and headed to bed.  Tomorrow we visit some more and have services at the Ramallah Church where Jay will preach again.  On Friday, the youth will meet and Jay will bring a special message.

Please continue to pray for us and for how you will be led to connect with this vital ministry in the Holy Land.  We look forward to being back with you in worship at FBCP this Sunday!

THURSDAY, MAY 11 , 2006

HOLY PLACES - DEAD AND LIVING STONES

The day began with a visit to Bethlehem and Jerusalem.  We saw the Church of the Nativity and shopped for souvenirs.  So many people were hurrying through the sites of Bethlehem, it made me wonder, "was everyone this busy the night the Savior was born?" It did take the angel pronouncement to the shepherds to get the word out.  I sure hope that we don't get so busy with the daily activites that we miss the moments the Savior is speaking to us. 

In Jerusalem, we had a short time, but saw the two locations that claim to be the place where Jesus Christ was crucified, buried, and resurrected.  The ancient site of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre claims to be the place.  It is full of ancient mosaics, tapestries, and candelabras.  Priests from different Christian faiths maintain a presence here, practicing rituals and shuffling the visitors through.  As I saw this beautiful, ancient place, it made me think about the fact that the stones of which it was made could never tell me about Jesus' Good News.  I really need people to share it with me.  Don't you?

After leaving the Old City, we visited the Garden Tomb site.  It is outside the city walls, and while it is only a recently venerated site (within 150 years) it has the feel of holiness just like the Church of the Sepulchre.  The tour guide didn't make a definitive claim that this was the place of Jesus' death, burial, and resurrection, but shared that there is strong evidence that it bears a strong resemblance to the biblical descriptions.  What I loved about it was that the pace was more open to the needs of the people visiting.  You could stop and pray in the peaceful garden areas.  I felt refreshed there.  And although the same "dead" stones are there, there were people (the tour guide, large visiting groups, and us) who took time to worship the Lord and talk about His Good News!  I really liked that.

Returning from Jerusalem we went back through another checkpoint to get to Ramallah.  In reality, Ramallah is next to Jerusalem, but because of the wall most Ramallah citizens can't take the short 10 minute route.  They are forced to go out a distant checkpoint, traveling miles out of there way.  It takes about 1 hour instead of 10 minutes!  The Palestinian people for the most part try to comply, but sometimes, even if they have the right paperwork, the teenage guard can deny them passage.  Even us, each time we went through a checkpoint had no gaurantee that we could pass.  These checkpoints are a hardship that cannot lead to peace, but increased frustration.  Please pray for the people here who suffer.  Pray for the Christians who are hindered by this that they will not loose heart.  Many have lost jobs and cannot even see family that lived across the street from them (seriously) because of the wall that has been built through neighborhoods and fields. 

This evening we celebrated worship and fellowship with our brothers and sisters in the Ramallah Local Church.  Jay preached that they were "Living Stones" who can live for Jesus and tell about Him.  They must be dead to sin and alive in Jesus!  Jay said they are more precious to God than any of the sites he'd seen all week.  Hopefully, someday you will be able to come and worship with these brothers and sisters or the ones at the Ramla Baptist Church.  They will encourage you as you encourage them.

Tomorrow, we leave early in the morning to visit the Mount of Olives and the Wailing Wall.  Then we return to the Home of New Life for lunch.  Late in the afternoon we have a meeting with the college student group.  Pray for us we talk with them about taking their faith-walk to the next level.

After that meeting ends, we'll hurry to the Tel Aviv airport to catch our plane home (it departs at 11:30pm.)  We are scheduled to return to DFW airport at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday. 

Dear brothers and sisters of FBC Palestine and the churches in Ramla and Ramallah,

     Thank you for praying for us as we have been on this vision trip.  We believe that God is doing a great work in Ramalla and Ramla.  Pastor Munir Kakish has been serving faithfully for 28 years helping the Palestinian people to come to Christ.  He wants Christ's kingdom advanced, not any man's vision of earthly kingdom.  Souls are more important then politics!

     Pastor Kakish's unique perspective of the situation is challenging to most Americans, but he speaks with grace and love as he invites us to partner with him in this mission effort.  I know that we will be praying about how we can help them prayerfully and materially in the days to come.  We look forward to sharing more details of this situation and the need with our home church that I cannot type here on this internet blog.

     Until I see you again in Palestine, Texas or Ramla or Ramallah or Heaven, may God bless you and hold you in the palm of His hand.

           Living stone,

           Jay Abernathy, pastor

           First Baptist Church, Palestine, Texas

FRIDAY, MAY 12, 2006

HOMEWARD BOUND, YET MISSING HERE

Made a quick visit back to Jerusalem this morning to see the Mount of Olives, Garden of Gesthemene, the Wailing Wall, and the Upper Room.  Good stuff to see, but the most beautiful sight today was the children gathering at Ramallah Local Church this afternoon. 

After a meeting with the wonderful college student group at 5pm, Breck and Jay are headed home.  Thank you for your prayers for us.  We look forward to telling you all about our journey. 

UPDATE FROM TEL AVIV AIRPORT - 1030PM ISRAEL TIME

After a rather lengthy examination process, Breck and I made through all the inspections.  Seems mentioning Ramallah is enough to merit having all your bags unpacked in front of everybody.  Anyway, we are safe and waiting at the gate to board our plane.  Thanks again for your prayers.  Keep praying for the brothers and sisters in Ramla and Ramallah.  They have the message of peace in Christ for this land.

SATURDAY, MAY 13, 2006

FINAL POST - FINALLY AT HOME IN PALESTINE

God blessed us with a flight home that had many empty seats.  We stretched out and got some rest during the 13 hour flight from Tel Aviv to Atlanta. Then, went through customs and heard from the US Customs official those two wonderful words, "welcome home" as he stamped my passport "entry permitted."  It made me think, "if it feels this good just to get back into my home country, I can only imagine how great it will be to be received into Heaven, with a "welcome home" and "entry permitted" because of the Grace gift of Jesus Christ!

On Sunday AM, Breck will share a very brief report about our journey, what it means, and what we do next.  Sunday PM, Jay will share some too. In the meantime, please pray for wisdom about how God can use FBCP to encourage and equip our Christian brothers and sisters in Ramla and Ramallah in their mission field. They will need prayer and financial support as they grow and develop facilities.  They will need visits as we build friendships with them.  I believe that Christ is using our church to become a bridge-building congregation that can make a difference for peace and eternity in the souls in the Holy Land that have a wall of sin around their hearts that must come down. 

Thank you church for being a risking, mission-outpost congregation.  So many of you made it possible for Breck and I to go on this vision journey.  Many of you sent gifts that were very appreciated by the boys in the Home of New Life.  I look forward to seeing you on Sunday!

       Jay Abernathy, pastor

THURSDAY, MAY 18 , 2006

RAMLA BAPTIST LOCAL CHURCH BUILDING NEWS!

This is a paragraph from an email from the Kakish's regarding the building for the Ramla church:

We are really, really excited here.  They finished negotiations on the building in Ramla.  I will be sending out an update about it.  The negotiations are for $50,000 key money to be paid by September.  (With key money, they can never force us to leave unless they offer to buy it back-sometimes all of the key money is returned-, it is not quite ownership, but a permanent lease).  The repairs are on our own.  The rent will be something like $100 a month, but we have to pay the taxes of $200-$300 dollars a month. We will be sending an update to all supporters tomorrow as we need the initial $10,000 to bind the deal within ten days.It is a good deal in this country.

This is really big news for the Ramla church.  Acquisition of property like this is very difficult and very expensive.  It is an answer to prayer that the price is so low.  Please pray for them. And if you can help, contact them through us at FBCP or on the Home of New Life website.

THURSDAY, MAY 25 , 2006

RAMLA BAPTIST LOCAL CHURCH GETS BUILDING, NEEDS PRAYERS AND MONEY!

The Lord has opened the doors (literally) to the property in the heartbeat of Ramla.  The congregation will need support and prayers as they use the space to grow the family of Jesus Christ.  Read more about the work on the Ramla Local Church page.

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Pictures below - place your mouse curse over the pictures for captions.

FBC Palestine/Buckner Trip April-May 2008

Day 8 - Thursday, May 1

Day 7 - Wednesday, April 30

Days 5-6 - Monday-Tuesday, April 28-29

Day 4 - Sunday, April 27

Day 3 - Saturday, April 26

Day 2 - Friday, April 25

Day 1 - Thursday, April 24

Mission Team 2007

Breck Quarles (FBC MissionCom Chair), Linda Love (FBC Children's Ministry Coordinator), and Cameron Cline prepare to leave DFW Airport, June 29. (Take a good look at the luggage, it didn't arrive with them.)

All the kids and workers at the Ramallah Church Camp.

Cameron teaching the Bible memory verse.

Breck teaching the Bible Story at the Ramallah camp.

Making the mosaics (Read the post to see how God taught the teachers a lesson with these.)

Group shot of us with Pastor Kakish, Joe, and the Korean team. (This team from the nations is ministering to the nations!)

Cameron, Linda, and Sharon Kakish at the Dead Sea. (Fun can be had on Mission Trips!)

The group enjoys eating out in downtown Ramallah.

Meeting an Israeli soldier and reaching out to all Nations.

Pics from the May 2006 trip are below