The Sudbrock Scoop

First Quarter of 2008

Upon our return to the field, we were grasping for the rudder and oars. A lot of water flows under the bridge in 4 months. In spite of all the preparation, not everything goes according to plan.

We were immediately confronted with the need of a discipline issue. No pastor enjoys Church discipline. Oh, but when repentance and healing comes. That is what we are earnestly praying for.

The first Sunday back, two of our church members brought us to tears. They very sweetly rewrote one of our favorite songs with words expressing how they had missed us and how that we were not allowed to leave again no matter the cost! It is good to see that you have made an impact.

That same Sunday morning we had a “guest.” This guest came to discuss the breaking up of the church that we have been renting our building from for the last three years. During these years, they have been so gracious in charging only one Euro a month so that we could use their building. However, the little group dwindled to only three remaining members. Three is not enough people to be recognized as a church by the Central association of German Brethren/Baptist. So on this day. I was confronted with three options.

The first two of which were without question impossible:

1. Rent without a contract and have no certainty as the building would also be rented to others who requested its use.

2. Become a part of the central organization.

3. Purchase the building.

At this point our only option is to purchase the building. This seems to be an impossible situation, but we know that our God knows the answer.

Vivian is returning to Germany from her first year at Bible College with no intention of continuing on the direction that God had led her. Please pray her heart will soften to God’s gentle touch.

One of the young men in our church is showing real promise. He has completed more of our discipleship than any of the other men. He is growing, loving his Bible, and serving. Olli has lived alcohol-free for almost a year and God has recently blessed him with a job. Please pray for him as he longs to follow the Lord’s leading.

A tremendous encouragement during April was the many responses we received to our German website. Several have written asking for prayer. We have seen one new visitor because of out internet presence and we are blessed to know that God’s word is reaching hearts via the web. Here is a note we received recently:

„für Menschen mit Handycap sind Ihre Internet - Seiten eine echte Hilfe und Fundgrube. Auf diese Weise können auch wir an Wort Gottes teilhaben.

herzliche Grüße und danke aus dem Schwarzwald“

„For people with handicaps, your website is a real help and treasure chest. Through this, we can also learn from God’s Word.

Best Wishes and thank you from the Black Forest!”

Thanks for your continued support,

Paul Sudbrock