Ireland Revisited-year 5

Due to shortened funds, the Hostetters had not expected to minister at Discovery Church this year. However, God, being the benevolent God He is, provided a group of former team members who said, “Let’s go!” And so, we went in the name of Jesus. One of our members, Beckie Thompson, even served the Lord on crutches because she knew God wanted her there.

Our ten days were filled with wonderful ministry for the children and adults of Galway and Athenry. We conducted two kid’s camps. Both were well attended, and the Lord entered into our program.

Rain can be a problem in Ireland. But, not for us! We set up at a new location in a park used by some very rough teens! Are you ready? They came to the camp along with other young kids from the neighborhood and church. All listened to our wonderful stories about the Ten Commandments. The teens even did the crafts. Some of their language wasn’t the cleanest, but we had a good time sharing and enjoying them right where they were. Seed planting was our calling that week.

The kids at Athenry were excited. Of course, at the end of the camp they all wanted to know if we would come back next summer. We had to say, “Yes.” If God could get us there this year, why wouldn’t He continue to do so in the future?

Saturday presented a new adventure for our group. Pastor Paul Cullen has begun a healing ministry from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm on Shoppe Street in Galway, one of the busiest shopping areas of the city. Invitations are distributed to passers-by. Four chairs are posted with members of his congregation waiting to pray for individuals. Wonderful results have emerged from this outreach ministry. We were privileged to partner with them that Saturday, and see God draw shoppers off the street onto the chairs and wait for God to touch them.

Discovery Church has really grown. We remember when it was just the Cullen family with a dream for Jesus to enter into Galway. Now, around two hundred people, hungry for God, are in attendance for Sunday worship. Small groups have begun, and the staff conducts an evangelism outreach program every Wednesday. It has been beautiful to see God grow His bride. Wally preached Sunday morning and was invited by a small Indian congregation who are sponsored by Discovery Church to preach on Sunday evening. Linda combined the entire Sunday school program for Junior Worship. She and her team had a great time with the kids.

Of course, Linda climbed Crough (Mount) Patrick and prayed for the Nation of Ireland to turn to Christ. She never has made it to the top, but it is a long way up there.

Thank you, Discovery Church, for allowing us to be blessed to serve with you. Jimmy, you are such a welcome addition to the staff! Thanks also for all you did to make our ministry a success and allow us to be comfortable throughout our stay. Paul and Caroline, Brian and Carol, Angela, Jimmy and Meilyn, Ken and Fiona, Kevin, Jill and Leanne, John and Ann, Fran, Willie and Teresa, Valerie, Andrew and Sarah, and Ken from Africa-- we just couldn’t have done it without you! We are praying for God to shower you with as many blessings as He does drops of rain from His heavenly realm on Ireland.