Serving the Lord in Italy

End of the trip

2010-07-20T08:46:00.019-04:00

Greetings all from St Paul de Vence, France!

This beautiful town sits above the city of Nice in southeast France. One of it's most famous attraction is the medieval walled city

On those clear days you have a good view of the Mediterranean Sea below.

We are starting the task of packing everything up for the journey home. It has been a wonderful 10 days here at the International Baptist Church of St. Paul. Over the course of last week's VBS, we had the privilege of seeing 5 children come to accept the gift of Jesus. Many fond memories and relationships were made during this time. Many of the children that attended last years VBS were back this year so some old friendships were renewed.

Mary hit it off well with all the kids she met during the week. I was excited to see Christian (next to me) again this year. He and Johnny had a ball hanging out together.

Nothing was as important as getting the Word into the hands of all the children who attended.

Claire and Rose enjoyed some time together following a day of festivities.

For those of you who have commented that you have not seen Judy in the pictures, this one confirms she was indeed with us. Here she has fun with a group of the kids.

It's hard to believe 8 weeks have passed us by. Thank you for sharing this trip with us. Your prayers and support are so appreciated. We're looking forward to getting home and sharing many God sightings with you.

Also, pray for travel mercies. Johnny is not feeling well and we're praying for healing and his ability to handle the 12 hours of travel.

May God richly bless you all
Brian

A week in Pictures

2010-07-17T03:27:00.011-04:00

This week, Was Busy!!! We have VBS (Vacation Bible school) all week long, It was so cool to meet new people, It was really awesome cause i met up with this one girl, and i knew her from MI, she does Gymnastics with My friend, Kelsy. So it was great to spend time with her and get to know her more.
During VBS, i got ot speak French with alot of little kids! it was a little hard :)

All of the Kids, Love to do there Bells! They are pretty good at them to! :)

Me and Cathrine Always loved to show the kids are amazing Hand shakes!

John Whitley, Was the most amazingness Massager in the world!!

Alexander, Is one of the boys that Only speaks french, So the only thing i could say to him every mornging, is How are you, and Hello :)

All of the Amazing Helpers that helped out with VBS!

This is- Nacho, The Awesome one :). It was great meeting someone about my age, and Crazy like me! :)

THE BIG WATER FiGhT!!!!!

Getting ready

AAAA DON'T DROP It!!!!!

BOOM

How Wet can you get?!

God is Faithful!

2010-07-10T06:30:00.000-04:00

I want to thank you all for your prayers regarding the fire incident I informed you about last week. Can you imagine trying to get Insurance companies on two separate continents to work together and resolve a claim in 1 week?!

Nothing is impossible with God. It happened and I am free to move about on schedule. There is nothing like God to reconcile matters at the last minute. It must delight Him to see the expressions on our faces and the delight of our hearts when He rectifies situations for us. God is for us, who can be against us. Last night’s message was regarding why we face trails and troubles. That was an easy message to deliver. The whole group was rejoicing. Life is full of great lessons that bring us closer to God if we’re willing to throw ourselves into it.

We’re leaving for Nice tomorrow morning by train. The France group had a wonderful first week of VBS in Marseille. They had over 50 kids this year (double what they had last year). Two children received Christ on Friday. Praise God!

Blessings to you all.

Brian

Need your Prayers

2010-07-06T03:25:00.002-04:00

Greetings all,

Were moving into our final week here in Italy. I have to confess last week has been an eventful and challenging time.

Please pray for the families of 2 soldiers stationed here who were killed in action recently in Afghanistan. We do not know who they are yet but we will be attending a memorial service on post this Thursday. There are additional troops, some we have become close with, who are deploying next Monday. They will also be attending the memorial service. Lift up Jason, Lloyd and Barry in your Prayers. If anyone would like to pray for one or all of these soldiers, let me know and I can forward their contact info.

We have had a rash of illnesses go thru the house. Thank God all are close to being back to full health.

Also, I want to make you all aware of a situation that came up here last week. The short of it is that I am responsible for a fire incident that occurred at a local gas station here in Vicenza. A vacuum system we were using caught fire and was destroyed. The fire also damaged a canopy that was over the unit. Cadence has indicated to me that since I was on a m ministry sponsored event, their insurance will cover the expense. However, the police has informed me that I cannot leave the country until this matter is resolved or I face criminal charges. I am in touch with folks back in the states and hope to have this resolved as soon as possible.

However, should something happen to delay this, it will impact our leaving for Nice this weekend.

Please pray that God will resolve this quickly. Pray the insurance company will move in supernatural speed to review, accept and process the claim. We have submitted ourselves to God's schedule and will be patient in the wait. So many good things have come out of this situation that I hope to share with you soon.

Thank you all for standing with us.

Brian

ciao!

2010-06-28T13:17:00.067-04:00

It has been an amazing couple weeks! We have made many close friendships and have enjoyed exciting adventures together! God is definitely at work here; there are so many hearts eagerly seeking Him. The Spiritual theme discussed often is the process God uses to renew our hearts and minds.

Prior to leaving for Italy, our family has been enjoying a new season of fellowship with folks eager to see God working in their midst. We're finding the same type of brothers and sisters over here as well. What ever we may be doing together, the conversation moves to the spiritual and we are all edified and encouraged by it. Praise God!

Our regular events of the week are going well. We have enjoyed very encouraging and challenging Bible studies on Tuesday nights.

Friday night potluck is a large and lively group with a great time of prayer and worship.

And of course, there is always some sort of game being played somewhere in the house, swing dancing, and lots of trips for gelato. Gotta love that stuff. :)

We have enjoyed getting to know some of the kids that attend the youth group on post, Club Beyond. We had a great time at the end of the year Luau cookout!

Now for our excursions around Italy: We got caught in an intense hail storm in the city of Marostica with Jenn and Jessica.

So our solution was to wait out the storm by checking out the local pizzeria!

My dad then used his impressive driving skills and drove our hulk-of-a-van up the mountain to explore the castle ruins.

Last week we went hiking in Asiago (FYI,the cheese does taste more amazing in its home town!). It was amusing watching all the army guys decifer maps and find trail heads.

The countryside of Northern Italy.

Jason, Lloyd and Barry try to keep up with Johnny

The giant duck wasn't so kind to Claire. You'll have to ask her what it did to her jeans!*evil grin*

The gang drove up to Venezia (Venice) last Sat. We got the front seats on the water taxi (which is quite a feat for a group of 14!) and enjoyed the sights of Venice during the day and lit up at night under a full moon. Cosi bello!

We had a trying experience on Saturday on our way to Venice - we had an incident at the local gas station where we caused a fire in their vacuum unit (long story). Anyway, everyone is safe, but we did make the newspaper. We clearly saw God's hand at work from the time of the incident to here and now. It is always a humbling reminder of how vulnerable we humans can be! But God allows everything to happen for a reason and He works and resolves in mighty ways! We are very thankful for His protection and provision.

This week Laura, Jenn and Jessica are away at the second week of Beach Break, the post's youth group summer camp. We are praying for God to touch many young hearts this week and to give the leaders strength and wisdom.

Also this week we are very happy to be involved in the VBS at chapel - So far the week has been a success! The energy and excitement are contagious and the kids are just so joyful!

Prayer Requests:
* for Jason, Barry and Lloyd as they prepare for deployment.
* for Robert who was wounded and is back at the post in Vicenza.
* for the salvation of 130 kids attending VBS this week. Many have a parent currently deployed.
* for the youth group attending Beach Break.

Being at a military post has been such an eye opener for me in regards to this war. Back home in the States our lives continue as usual, for me at least, and we barely (or not at all) feel the effects of our country actually being at war. But living here, you see the effects that the war is having on the people who are fighting it (struggles in relationships, emotional, spiritual). It has really touched my heart and made me appreciate our troops all the more. Please continually pray for our men and women in arms and their families. The enemy is strong, but our God is stronger!

God bless! Katie

All the Amazing Soldiers and Friends

2010-06-16T10:36:00.015-04:00

Mary's Post

Every Mission trip I go on with my family, I am always excited to meet Awesome fun Soldiers and Friends! I love them cause they are awesome, nice, funny and fun to be around.
One of the soldiers is like Johnny's new best Friend, His name is Justin, He is So Awesome and really fun!! ( Him and John already made a secret handshake even though we just met him :)

Below, Dad, Zach and Justin are hanging out at an event on post.

And there is John, he is awesome to be around and is very funny! and he is very good at Guitar!
Peace to the World!

Then there is Brian, He and I like to talk about ice cream, Roses and their colors, and the saying- Book's are always better then the movies!

And here Is Jason, He is new to the Hospitality house, and is fitting in perfectly! it has been fun for me to meet him, We had a good time playing slaps together, (Slaps is a card game)

I also love to be around all of the Girls that come! I love to talk with them and play Boggle! And i love all of our girl nights, Last time we watched Mama Mia! and after that we sang all of the sing along songs from the movie and painted our nails! It was fun to be with all of them!
It is awesome for me, to have the experience to be with all of the Soldiers, and talk, play games and go on Field Trips!
Here we are in Bassano, With Jenn,Katie,Jess,Claire and me!

And here is Laura, And her amazing Yuker hand!

I can't wait to meet more Soldiers and friends!!

Blessing's,
Mary

And so it begins

2010-06-07T08:56:00.028-04:00

Our week of orientation is over, and this morning my dad took the Hamptons to the airport. Today we had a planning meeting to figure out the meals for the week and finalize our schedule. There are some great people that know how things work at the Hospitality House (HH) and they are happy to help us if we have questions. So we are ready to get started! This week we are completing various odd jobs around the house and will continue in the regular events: Bible study and dinner on Tues, worship and potluck on Fri (largest event of the week), some sightseeing on Sat, and the Singles luncheon and chapel on Sun.

We had a busy but wonderful first weekend! We had a great time of fellowship at the Friday night potluck. There was lots of laughter and, of course, great food! That is one perk of this ministry, you never stop eating! Claire couldn't take it any more so she hit the treadmill this morning.

On Saturday, Claire and I were invited over to have lunch at Julie's house. Julie is a soldier who regularly attends the HH. We had some great discussions and started to get to know more about her.
That same afternoon, we met an Italian couple, Mario and Chiara, who are friends of Rob and Karen and run their own leather business. They had brought some merchandise to the House a couple weeks ago for soldiers to buy, and were coming to pick it all up. We planned to help take their stuff back to their house and then go out to dinner together. Little did we know that we were in for quite a night!

Neither of them speak English, so Rob was our official translator. We also used lots of smiles, hand gestures and head nodding. So there we are, our 3 car caravan, driving along these pretty country roads not realizing it would take us over an hour to get to our unknown destination.
I ended up having two kids (guess who) sleeping on my lap as we finally drove up to an old farmhouse. Mario and Chiara have renovated the hundred year old house, and it is beautiful!

As we unloaded we heard all these dogs howling. Turns out that Chiara and Mario are avid rabbit hunters and have 11 beagles! They have competed in and won many competitions, and their dogs are little celebrities to the hunters in the area.

Mary and Julie

Showing us pictures of their competitions

Dad enjoyed the guns. (Mario, Brian, Rob)

They were very excited to show us around their home and workshop, and gave us many beautiful gifts (I now have three custom-made Italian leather dog collars!).

Leather workshop, Mario making the collars

Chiara sharing the local wines and juices
After 2 hours of visiting, we went to dinner at an elegant "ristorante" and had a delicious dinner. It was nice to have something other that pizza and pasta!
Mario and Chiara are not Christians, and we were able to share a little bit about our relationship with God over the course of our 3 hour meal. Mario gave us his impressive rendition of Pavarotti, he has an amazing voice!. We hope that we will be able to see them again before we leave. It is wonderful when God brings you those unexpected adventures and opportunities! Being able to share a day with wonderful people that come from such a different life is very neat when you connect in such a close way.

On Sunday we went to chapel. It was a bittersweet service since a few of the families are leaving. They spent time in celebration of the blessing these people were to the community and gave them a send off. That's life in the military, always filled with hellos and goodbyes. I think they get accustomed to it, but it doesn't get easier. We're already getting to know the chapel community, they have a sincere spirit and are very welcoming. Military life has a way doing this.

Prayer Requests:

* For Rob and Karen Hampton, that they are blessed with travel mercies and are able to relax and renew as they visit and family and friends in the States.

*That our first week goes smoothly! That we we have confidence and wisdom in continuing the ministry here at the HH.

* The deployed troops from here in Vicenza (Camp Ederle)

*For a continued relationship with Mario and Chiara.

* That we take good care of little Zack and the plants! :)

Thank you!

In Him, Katie

My first attempt at blogging...

2010-06-02T17:25:00.012-04:00

Hey everyone!

Quick update to let you know things are going well. Brian and Judy joined the Hamptons (Rob and Karen, the couple who we are covering for) yesterday on post and attended the chaplain's staff meeting. They were introduced to the chaplains and their assistants and were assigned a sponsor right there. With the sponsor, we all were able to obtain our post passes the same day. Praise God!

During the meeting, we were excited to learn that a VBS was scheduled for late June at the chapel, and they were pleased to learn they had 5 new helpers! All 6 of us went to a planning meeting today and got our assigned jobs. It was great for my parents to meet so many spouses of soldiers that were interested in hearing about the Hospitality House (HH). What an unexpected open door, it will be great getting to know so many new friends.

Today, Claire and I were able to participate in the youth ministries on post. Many of the regulars that come to the HH are also involved with the youth
, so we were able to continue getting to know everyone. We joined the middle school youth group in superhero themed games (capes and everything!)and a short Bible study. Then we headed over the Teen Center and started meeting people there. I'm excited about these opportunities God keeps giving us, and I can't wait to build relationships both on post and in the HH.
I've really enjoyed getting a glimpse what a kids life on post is like. They go to school with other Americans and paticipate in other normal activities, like this weekend is the Senior Prom! It feels like a mini America with the movie theatre, bowling ally and one lone Burger King! Of course, when you walk out the gates you are immersed again in Italian culture!

Prayer Requests:

* The main unit here in Vicenza is deployed to Afghanistan. Pray for the many families that are waiting for their loves ones to return, for protection over our troops, and for them to experiencec God's strength and peace.

* Pray for Rob and Karen Hampton as they prepare to leave for the States on Monday. Pray they have a safe trip and get some needed R&R.

* Diligence in reaching out to people we come in contact with (even if language is a barrier)

* This will be our first Friday of worship time and dinner at the house. Pray that we can learn how to make everything run smoothly and that we can connect to the people we meet.

* For Matt, Carla and Isaac Selling who are staying at our home and caring for our dogs and home. They're dealing with difficult situations that have come up, and we are so thankful they are there! But those problems can be a real distraction for us and them! Please pray that they will have a peaceful 7 weeks!

God Bless!
Katie

Here is the Hospitalty House in Vicenza

Zack, the House mascot!

Our stop in Rome

2010-05-31T17:58:00.025-04:00

Blog Update from Brian:

We have just arrived at our destination in Vicenza Italy and we have access to the Web! We flew into Rome 4 days ago where we spent time with our friend Amos Miguel who serves with Campus Crusade for Christ. We also took in some amazing sites and got acclimated to the time zone (like sleeping into 11:00 am each day).

People often talk about taking a pilgrimage to the holy land to help them put their faith into perspective. After spending a few days in Rome, I would add this ancient city as the second place to see to help put into perspective just what was happening in the world during the time of Jesus' life and ministry.

Even among the ruins, it is overwhelming to experience the majesty of what was once the seat of human power. The rubble can’t hide the grandeur and beauty of her architecture, civil and mechanical engineering achievements, and the effects she had on the arts, language and commerce.

These pictures can’t give justice to the size and complexity of the Forum which was the city square of Rome where people could gather for political, judicial and religious ritual in great numbers.

The Forum became the economic hub of the city, as well as the center of the Kingdom, Republic and Empire.

During this time, Rome was worshipping many of the same gods as the Greeks, though by different names. Many temples were found in the area. One in particular has stood the test of time. The Pantheon. It was commissioned by Marcus Agrippa as a temple to all the gods of Rome, and rebuilt by Emperor Hadrian in about 126 AD.

Almost two thousand years after it was built, the Pantheon's dome is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome. Almost 2000 years!

What awe and intimidation this city must have had on people of the ancient world. Whether they were visitors or captives, they must have thought this nation was unstoppable. This influence and power was not lost on the nation Israel. I was thinking of all the events in the NT where Rome's control was influencing the daily lives of the Jews and her leaders. The one that stands out for me above them all is when the rulers of Israel had to choose between her true King (Jesus) or Caesar.

But they shouted, "Take him away! Take him away! Crucify him!" "Shall I crucify your king?" Pilate asked. "We have no king but Caesar," the chief priests answered. Finally Pilate handed him over to them to be crucified." John 19:15-16

We know these rulers actually wanted to maintain their own illusion of power but they used the influence of Rome for their own gain. I thought back to when Israel wanted her own King like all the other nations around them. However God warned them in 1 Samuel 8 that an earthly king would only take from them. How prophetic! If they wanted Caesar, Caesar they got. It wouldn't be long until his army showed up and destroyed Jerusalem and took all the treasures from the temple. Today, you can see in Rome the Arch of Titus which was constructed in c.82 AD by Emperor Domotian shortly after the death of his older brother Titus to commemorate Titus' victory in the destruction of Jerusalem in 70 A.D

How cool is that!? You can see images of the artifacts from the temple being carried off by the Roman soldiers. In fact, the Emperor would use the temple treasure to finance the construction of another popular structure in Rome. The Colosseum

Domotian's father, Emperor Vespasian started the works in 72 AD and his son Titus dedicated it in the year 80 with magnificent games that lasted one hundred days. In that time, many animals and men lost their lives. It is intriguing to me how the best and worst of man coexisted at the same place and at the same time.

Thus the need of a Savior! It wasn't long after the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ that this edifice to man's glory fell and became the seat of the early church. But that is another story.

Once the seat of human power, the ruins of Rome is now a seat for Johnny. Rock on John!

Hey, those status look a lot like Mary, Claire and Katie

More to come now that we are at the Hospitality House.

Getting ready to go

2010-05-22T23:37:00.007-04:00

All,
As we prepare to leave for Italy this Wednesday the 26th, we so appreciate your support of this ministry. Your willingness to cover us in prayer for the next 8 weeks encourages us substantially. We know the affects of prayer and we cherish them. We will use this blog to keep you informed of what we need you to be praying for and to get a flavor of the ministry so please check it often. If there is something you wish for us to keep before the Lord, please let us know.

To give you a perspective as to where we will be in Italy, check out the map below. Near the top center you'll see Venice on the coast of the Adriatic Sea. To the west, you'll see Verona.

Vicenza is between Verona and Venice as indicated below.

Our next update will be from Italy. May God's blessings continue to cover you all.

In His Service

The Beers

Our Last Update

2006-03-26T20:47:00.000-05:00

Hello All,

Well here we are in the 10th and last week of our stay here in Au Jung-Ri, Korea. This post will conclude our updates of the happenings around Camp Humphreys Hospitality House. It will be a busy week.

On Monday and Tuesday we'll be meeting with various people to say good-bye. We pick up Greg and Ceci Linton on Wednesday afternoon from the airport. Then we'll be moving into our last weekend of ministry events.

Thanks to all who have been praying for a solution regarding the increase in rent. As way of an update, the landlord has reduced the amount of increase from $1,000 to $500/mo. This rate would be for one year (May 1, to May 1). After May 1, 2007 he will raise it another $500/mo. Discussions are underway at home office and among those here at the house as to how the additional $500 will be generated. In addition, the examination of a long term solution to meet the needs of this growing post is also underway. Please continue to pray for this issue. We are confident God will meet this need. We have seen Him working here and this is just another opportunity to see Him move. What a God we serve.

Please pray for the Lintons as they make the long flight from Colorado with an 18 month old girl. They leave Tuesday the 2nd and arrive on Wednesday. We will have 4 days together to transition responsibilities. This too is their first assignment with Cadence. They have no idea of the blessings that await them here at the HH.

Speaking of blessings, you all have been that to us. It has been through your prayers and financial support that have allowed our family to experience God in new ways. He has opened our eyes to new possibilities and has given us courage and faith to follow Him. We look forward to getting home and digesting all we have been through, all the experiences, the new friendships, the needs we encountered and the lives that are being changed. You all have a part in this. Thank you for your faithfulness in serving our Lord Jesus Christ.

Please pray for our return home. We will be leaving Seoul Monday at 11:00 a.m. This means an early departure from Au Jung-Ri. Pray for our health as we all are feeling somewhat worn down. Pray for Mary and Johnny to have the stamina to last through 24 hours of travel. We are looking forward to being home and reunited with our family and friends.

May God's care be upon you all

The Beer Family

3/20 Update

2006-03-20T00:00:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone,

It has been a busy week here even with some of our soldiers deployed for a two week exercise down south of us. When we are not busy with ministry activities, much of our time is spent as if we were home. Shopping has to be done and home repairs have to be made. I (Brian) thought I would have a break from 'honey-do' lists while over here. Just like any house, things have to be done to keep it in running order. Several weeks ago I found myself under the van repairing the gear shift linkage that came disengaged. Just this past Thursday our boiler sprung a leak in the upstairs apartment. The landlord was quick to have it replaced. Thankfully one of our Korean faithfuls (Kimberly) acts as our contact point whenever we need to order heating oil, LPG and water. She is such a help.

We need your prayer support on an issue that just came up. While inspecting the boiler replacement, the landlord informed me he wants to raise the rent by $1,000/mo starting May 1. This is a big financial hit. I sent off an email to home office to understand if there is a lease and if so what are the terms and conditions. I'm also talking with Kimberly who just happens to be a realtor to get an idea of our options for another place. Please pray for discernment for us while we navigate through this issue for the next couple of weeks. I can't imagine a better place then this because of its size, layout, location and the fact it has a yard (very uncommon feature here in Au Jung-Ri).

For our activity day this past Saturday, we did something everyone has been after us to do, take the USO tour of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). If we are to understand why the US military is here, we would have to experience one of the last bastions of the cold war. It is the most fortified, guarded and monitored border in the world. I'm sure the facts of this sound as insignificant to you as they did to me until I went up there. It's hard to describe the atmosphere. For an American, freedom is a natural right. Something we are and something we do. Here in Korea, the civil war never ended. The frontline (DMZ) is still militarily active even after 53 years since a cease fire (Armistice) agreement was set in place. It is basically a section of land 4 Kilometers wide running the entire length of the Korean peninsula. In the center of the DMZ is the Demilitarized Line (DML) which is the actual border between the two countries. Many Koreans still live with the pain of families separated by the war. The unification of Korea is ever present in the minds of South Koreans.

Because of age restrictions, Mary and Johnny could not go. Leaving Camp Humphreys, our first destination of the tour was to Camp Boniface, an army post whose motto is "In front of them all". It is the closest camp to Panmunjon which is the place where the Armistice was signed back in 1953. It is also the closest post to the DML. This post would likely be the first to encounter any fighting if hostilities between the two countries reignite. Here we were given a briefing of how and what we were to do when up in Panmunjon. The security measures were extreme. It was in Panmunjon that some of the killings since the signing of the Armistice have taken place.

Panmunjon is only 800 meters in diameter and a map of the compound is above (do not be concerned, I'm not giving away any secret information here). Designated as the Joint Security Area (JSA) between the U.N. and North Korea, it is outside administrative control of both South and North Korea. The U.N. and North Korea sides each operate 6 guard posts and 35 security guards reside inside. Since the ax murder incident on August 18, 1976, by North Korean soldiers, security guards are forbidden to cross over to the opposing side's area.

We were allowed to enter the center blue building (#3) as indicated on the map above. The DML runs right through the middle of these buildings as indicated by the concrete line seen in the image to the left. Discussions between North and South take place in these buildings. When people are present in the JSA, guards are posted along the buildings. They straddle the corners to present less of a target. Inside the building, one Korean soldier straddles the DML indicated by the position of the UN flag on the table and another guards the door on the North Korean side of the room. In the image above right, Katie is positioned safely in South Korea while Claire stands in Communist North Korea. It is common for North Korean soldiers to peer into the windows (on the North side of course) to watch what is going on as indicated by this file image. This did not happen while we were there however. We then made our way to check point (CP) 6 which is the second blue building from the left closest to the DML on the chart above. In the picture to the right you can see CP 5 just over the soldiers left (our right) shoulder. Back in 1976, an ambush occurred when a detachment of 12 UN soldiers went out to trim back a large tree that was beginning to block the line of sight between CP5 and CP6. The image to the right captured the malee. 2 American and 4 Korean soldiers were killed with axes and the others survived. A marker now stands where that tree once stood and it is visible just over the soldiers right (our left) shoulder. In 1984, there were other killings when a visiting Russian citizen bolted from the North side between buildings 1-5 on the DML. North Korean soldiers pursued him into South Korea past the big blue building named Freedom House into the sunken garden area. In the seconds it took for the North Korean soldiers to get there, UN soldiers out flanked them and surrounded the sunken garden and protected the defector. A small arms fire fight ensued killing several North Korean soldiers and one American soldier. Also from CP6 we were able to get our first view of Gijeong-dong. This North Korean propaganda village, situated 1.8 km from Daeseong-dong Village, was built in the northern area of the DMZ for the purpose of propaganda. The image to the right shows the village which has no residents except soldiers. The world's highest flag tower flying the North Korean flag stands at the entrance of the village. The flag weighs 600 pounds dry. From CP6 we traveled down to CP5 to see a very important bridge. The Bridge of No Return as shown below right, runs astride the DML. After the Armistice Agreement in 1953, prisoners of war from both sides were exchanged on this bridge. The name came from the fact that the prisoners of war who voluntarily chose to go to North Korea instead of staying in the South would be unable to return to South Korea. From Panmunjon, we made our way to another observation post to the west that gave a panoramic view of North Korea. We were unable to take any pictures here. If we had, you would see many of their hills are barren. They need the resources for heat and energy. We also were able to descend into 1 of 4 known infiltration tunnels the North dug under the DMZ. They have since been fortified beneath the boundaries of the DMZ and DML. Anyone traveling to Korea should take this tour. It gave me a new appreciation of what our soldiers here at the HH are doing on our behalf. I know the ladies enjoyed themselves.

Prayer and Praise Requests

Praises be to God for the safe journey home of Tom, Beth and Sophie. All three are back home in TN where they joined their three other children. Thank you all for praying for them.

Jeff Norris is back from Hawaii. His eye surgery went well. Continue to pray for healing.

As you can imagine there are many prayer requests here at HH. People are suffering or have loved ones suffering from illnesses and diseases. Many unsaved family members back home and all sorts of issues that arise from that. People coming up on their last days in the service and wondering what the future has in store for them. Please keep this house in your prayers and all the issues God is working on in our lives as well as all who attend. God knows what the specifics are.

God Bless you all

3/13 Update

2006-03-12T22:54:00.000-05:00

Hello All,

God answers prayer!

We want to let you know that we will be staying 3 more weeks. Our return date is April 3rd. We have been praying for the Lintons (our replacements) that they would raise their remaining amount of support. During our last Friday night service, I made the support needs known to the group and by the end of the night we had $2,500 in hand! Praise God. The Lintons are booking their flight and we expect them here March 29th.

We have been praying for Tom and Beth as they went through a long ordeal to adopt a baby girl (Sophie) from India. They have traveled to India this past weekend to pick her up. Tom was quick to take a couple of pictures and send them to us so we can celebrate with them. The three of them will be home in Alabama this weekend. Keep them in your prayers as they begin the process to repair the cleft palate Sophie has. Tom will be returning to Camp Humphreys in a couple of weeks.

What is happening around HH

We had a wonderful time celebrating Judy's Birthday (March 9th). Of course the celebration had to be stretched out over several days. On Wednesday, Yung was so nice treating our family (and Tom Phillips who was leaving in two days) to a dinner at his favorite restaurant in Pyongtaek. We had our own room and had the pleasure of dinning with the owners two daughters (13 & 8). By the end of the night the girls were singing songs (Korean and American) and playing various hand games. The older daughter could speak English well but the younger only a little. Yung provided any translations when required. The real treat was listening to Tom sing some of his hillbilly songs. I wonder what The Koreans were thinking when they heard these strange sounds. On Thursday we had folks stick around after bible study and help us celebrate with cake and ice cream. I'm sure she'll want to celebrate once again when we return states side.

Prayer Requests

Please pray for Jeff Norris who is in Hawaii having eye surgery. He is hoping to correct a sight problem that has thus far kept him from flight school. Pray the surgery goes well.

There is a peninsula wide exercise including both US and Korean troops for the next two weeks. Pray for safety. A number of the HH soldiers are included in it.

We continue to pray for the Wrights. Jim and Jennie have not heard back regarding the possibility of adopting a baby. Several weeks ago the were told one may be available at anytime. They continue to wait and trust on the Lord.

That is it for now.

All our love
The Beer Family

03/07 Update

2006-03-07T01:29:00.000-05:00

Greetings all

we need your prayers. The family (Greg and Cici Linton) that is slated to replace us may have to push back their arrival date by several weeks as they work to get their finances in place. We are looking into the possibility of staying up to 3 more weeks. Please pray the Lintons will be able to raise $2,400 in the next week or two and for discernment on our part as to God's will in this.

We have been facing the fact of coming home soon. Time has gone to fast. We simply are not ready to come home yet. There are so many things starting to happen here. This area of Korea is seeing such growth. Camp Humphreys is expanding three fold in the next 5 years and will be the command seat of the 8th Army. Urban sprawl is moving south from Seoul and bringing much development to both Au Jung-Ri ( a farming community for the most part) and the nearest city of Pyongtaek (16 Km away) which is a university town. We have several Chaplins who participate in the house and I know they have been working on their vision and building a ministry to meet the additional needs of the Post. We also have attending the Hospitality House (HH) some local Koreans and Americans who run or are involved in local churches. They too see this as a strategic location to have ministries.

Judy and I attended an English service at a local Korean church on Sunday. This church is lead by Pastor Lee whose wife Esther, attends Friday night activities here at HH. She has been trying to get us over there to meet with her husband and our schedule finally permitted it. After service we got together and discussed his vision (through a translator) for meeting the spiritual needs of internationals that are drawn here either for the universities or for the military. It has been an enlightening experience to see so many faithful servants working for the Lord.

Esther and I share a laugh after Friday night activities

Those loving and serving the Lord at the HH

Jonathan and Kelli Goolsby are from Pike County, Ga.

Jonathan is active Army serving as an Apache mechanic, and Kelli is here to support him.

"The Hospitality House is a home away from home. A place to worship among our friends and family. A place to have comfort knowing you will always have family around.

Kelli would like us to pray for her Aunt who is perparing for a hysterectomy. Pray the operation will go well and healing will be quick.

Michael and Amber Cookey are both from Lititz, PA

Michael is Chinook pilot who is currently the executive officer and shops platoon leader in an aviation maintenance company. Amber is along for the ride but spends most of her time volunteering as a nurse at the school, teaching aerobics, and being active in PWOC (protestant women of the chapel), hospitality house, and chapel activities, and forming relationships with Koreans as well as soldiers.

“The Hospitality House is a safe place to go that always feels like home with amazing people, fellowship, growth, and encouragement. A place that seems 'safer' than a church for those seeking to know more about Jesus.”

“Please allow us to pray for you by sharing your prayer requests. Please pray for our continued growth as a couple as we have only been married for almost 6 months, for Michael to have leadership skills like Jesus. For the salvation of Amber's family and for us to share Jesus boldly, and guard our mouths and what we say.”

What is happening around the HH

This past Saturday a group of us headed up north to the city of Suwon to check out a Korean folk village. It is similar to Greenfield Village but chronicles Korean culture. We enjoy getting to know Korea's rich culture.

Image to the left shows off the sights of the farmers' festival dance. To the right, no picture of Korea is complete without having Kimchi pots in it. This pickled vegetable dish is a main staple of the Korean diet and there are over 200 types with varying degrees of spiciness. It is included in every meal of the day.

To the left to group enjoys a little color. The colorless winter drab can get to you after awhile (just like Michigan). To the right a traditional wedding procession makes its way along a path. The groom would ride on a donkey ahead of the bride who would be carried in a beautifully decorated wedding 'box'. The men behind the bride would carry all the gifts.

The shot to the left shows off a radical session of see-saw. Please do not try this at the local playground. At right, the girls found some rough looking guys to hang out with. I don't think any of them are enjoying themselves (if you can't tell, it is a wall painting).

The shot to the left is the upstairs apartment we live in. On evenings where we do not have scheduled events, we'll occasionally have someone over for dinner. It is a great way to relax and get to know people. This night we had some additional guests. Above, Tom and John are enjoying a session of Batman and Robin. I don't know who enjoys it more. We have been praying for Tom and his wife Beth (back in the states) as they prepare to adopt Sophie from India. God has answered those prayers. All the details have been completed. Tom will be leaving this Friday and will meet Beth in India where they will pick-up Sophie. Tom will return with them to the states for a 30 day leave.

Surrounding Au Jung-Ri and Camp Humphreys are rice fields and small villages like the one to the right. To get around you travel on these rice field roads. As you can see to the left, you want to be very careful while driving. In fact, you have to pay attention and look as far as you can see before entering the roads. You don't want to meet some other vehicle midway. Someone is going to have to backup. Try doing it at night!

Prayer Requests

We are praying for Ken and Kelly Pollack here at HH. Pastor Andrew has a new appointment scheduled for Monday the 13th to try to obtain Grace's Passport.

Pray also for Stan and Jeanna Smith here at HH. They also are trying to obtain the necessary documents so they can travel with Dori (their daughter whom they adopted here)

Maria who is having some trouble during the later stages of her pregnancy. Pray she'll carry the baby full term.

That is all I have time for in the way of an Update. Until next time.

God Bless

02/27 Update

2006-02-27T00:47:00.000-05:00

Those loving and serving the Lord in Korea

Kent, Tracy, Autumn (4) and Kelton (4 months)

Kent is originally from West Virginia and Tracy is from Alabama.

“We are in South Korea by Gods' Orders. We were sent here in January 2005 and we are command sponsored (the military pays for the whole family to be here). We consider this a great blessing and we will be here until December 2007. We truly believe that it was much more than military orders that brought us here and we have been blessed tremendously since our arrival. I have seen God at work in so many ways and can hardly wait to see what He has in store for us from day to day.”

“The Hospitality House has been a great blessing to our whole family this past year and we have really enjoyed worshipping with others on Friday nights. We have been mentored by some great Hospitality House Directors and we have already gotten attached to the Beers. If we could, we would just keep them with us for a while longer. (Hint). I truly believe that the Hospitality House is just another way for us to join God in His work around us. I have seen so many soldiers and locals touched by this ministry.”

“Our prayer request right now would be our sons' paperwork. We are in the process of trying to get Keltons' passport and Visa taken care of so that we can travel to the States when needed.”

What's happening around the HH

We said goodbye to Jim and Bev Feiker. They are now in Hong Kong meeting with a number of missionaries supporting that area of the world. It was nice to have them here and share in this experience with us. Pray for safety and stamina for them as they travel through so many time zones.

The Friday and Saturday functions are great but both Judy and I enjoy the Thursday night studies. It gives us more time in a small group environment to really get to know people and understand where they are at within their walk. Please pray for these nights. It's hard for the men's study because their schedule changes due to work load and field training. Pray that even though they miss a week they will be diligent in completing the study on their own.

Camp Humphreys is going to expand in the next several years. Some installations up north will be closing so many of those units will find a home here. The post expansion is already underway. They're expecting to triple in size. We're praying this will equate into many more people looking for Christian fellowship. Pray for Cadence as they plan to meet this need here at Humphreys.

As I mentioned before, the Army has classified a tour in Korea as a hardship tour. Many soldiers are here without spouses and/or children. These individuals cannot get enough of the fellowship that this house provides through studies, worship services and activity nights. Many dwellings here in Au Jung-Ri are very small so it is hard to get a group together if not for this facility. This house is a sight for sore eyes to many people, not just the soldiers. A big surprise for me has been watching relationships grow between Americans and Koreans. The young soldiers get to know more about the culture because of the events the Koreans plan for the house. Pray this house will meet the spiritual needs for many within the entire community.

As I'm sitting here writing this update (10:08 PM), there is much aircraft activity outside. The HH backs up to the post at the end where the aircraft approach the runway. When the larger Chinooks and Blackhawks come by, the office windows rattle. I do enjoy all the activity near the post.

The Chinook to the left is carrying a swing load unto post. The medivac Blackhawk to the right is about to set down. Please pray for our airmen. They are involved in a number of exercises for the next couple of weeks which means more activity and possible accidents.

We can't thank you all enough for allowing us to be here in Korea serving these wonderful people. Stay tuned for the next update.

May God's blessings be upon you.

2/20 Update

2006-02-17T00:15:00.000-05:00

Greetings to all!

Here we are approaching the halfway mark of our trip. It is going to fast. There is so much we want to do. So many people we want to get involved with deeper. Like so many other aspects of life there are time restrictions. We will continue to cherish the time we have left and use it to the best of our abilities to reach out and show attributes of Christ to all we encounter.

Those loving and serving the Lord in Korea

Frank and Mayra Revak.

Frank is from Miami, Florida (Coconut Grove...native Grovite) and Mayra is from Havana, Cuba (left Cuba when I was 3 years old; raised in Miami, FL)

Mayra is a Kindergarten teacher at Humphreys Elementary School which is on Post. Frank is a substitute teacher at the elementary and high schools, serves as pastor for the English worship services at two Korean churches, leads bible studies at their home and occasionally at the Hospitality House; they also teach English to the Korean children in their village as a form of outreach to their community.

“The Hospitality House (HH) has been a place where we have come to know many soldiers and their families and has made us more aware of their daily pressures and the sacrifices they make to serve our country. We have brought people here who have been tremendously blessed by the faithful servants the Lord has called here. It's been encouraging to see so many step up and serve as they are needed. It's a true house of worship.”

“Please pray for our ministry with the local Koreans; that the Lord can use us to help them come to know Him and to continue discipling those that are new believers. Pray for our families back home; 5 adult children and 2 baby grandchildren....that each one of them may surrender to Christ and live a life that glorifies Him."

Jim is from Detroit (can you tell?) & Jennie LaPorte, IN
Megan and Colin were both born at Ft Campbell, KY

Jim is in the Army. He works as an Armament Officer with the AH-64D Apache Longbow Helicopters. This means that he is a Technical advisor as well as the Platoon Leader in charge of the 40 soldiers who work on the helicopter's Avionics, Electronics, and Weapon Systems of the 30MM Gun, Rocket and Missile Launchers. They also load and arm the helicopters when they fire the weapons.

Jim was stationed in Korea for a one year tour. "We prayed for God's guidance and then decided to sell our home and so our family could be together. After living here six months, we decided to extend Jim's tour for two more years. We will be in Korea until Dec 2007."

"The Hospitality House is a home away from home. It is a safe place to find like minded people. We have been greatly blessed by the many friendships that we have formed at the Hospitality House. God has allowed us to serve Him, mentor, and be mentored. It is a real blessing. "

"Our pray request would be for troop safety. The soldiers train hard here with frequent trips to the field. Our unit has been blessed to not have had too many incidents, but safety is always a major concern."

For our family, our prayer is that we continue to see before us the opportunities that God has granted us by being here. May we always be aware of His prompting and serve where He would have us.

Activities at the HH

This weekend was a highlight. Jim and Bev Feiker arrived from Colorado Friday night. They stayed up in Seoul that night and a bunch of us from the HH drove up to meet them and we all spent the weekend site seeing in the city. It was a long weekend (Presidents Day) for the soldiers so they wanted to do an overnighter. We had a caravan of 4 vehicles. Seoul is approximately 50 miles to the North. Even on a weekend, it takes just under 2 hours to get there. The population of South Korea is around 50 million. It's about the size of Indiana. Much of it is hilly. About half the population lives in Seoul and it's metropolitan area. Even on weekends the traffic is terrible.

Front and back view of the crowd in the HH van. Katie wasn't so sure of my (Brian) driving.

Group shot at the entrance to the Royal Palace in Downtown Seoul. We were in time to watch the changing of the guard.

Inside the temple on Palace grounds. The architecture was stunning. To the right, the older girls were not warm to the idea of getting to close to the Palace guard. Mary could care less. She wanted to get in the picture. After the Palace, we headed across town to a large shopping mall for food and shopping. In the evening we headed down to the Han River for a river cruise. The weather was actually mild (45 degrees) for this time of year. It seems the sun shines here more during winter than back in Michigan.

To the right, the kids were threatening mutiny if they did not get their hot chocolate. Over all it was a great weekend. Through outings such as these, relationships really develop and bond. We got back to the HH in time for Sunday evening chapel. It is very special for us to have Jim and Bev here. They stay until Wednesday and then they're off to Hong Kong.

Please continue to pray for the prayer items identified on the previous post. We'll keep you posted.

2/13 Update

2006-02-13T00:18:00.000-05:00

Those loving and serving the Lord in Korea

Elizabeth Liu is from China

She is studying Theology in Pyeongteak University which is located 15 miles west of Au Jung-Re in Pyeongteak City.

“The HH is one of the most precious provisions from God for me while I am studying in Korea. It is like my family as I can share the love of all the members, especially the host's family always offer their care, love and best treatment. It is like the Chinese House Church, helping people know God's love and knowledge, affecting my life and mind, improving my studies and enjoy the fellowships. It is also a shelter for me when I am tired, get hurt or feel lonesome. I can rest from my studies and works and enjoy the entertainment the host provided. People coming here communicate and care each other as a family, the family of God. I can see their sincerity and love that come out of their faith in God. The HH is like a bridge that connects the people who are far away from their countries and families. I feel I am not alone and my life in Korea is not tough and dull anymore. The other point I want to say is that through my experiences and fellowships of the people in HH, I get more and deeper understanding of U.S, which I did not know or realize before.”

“Please pray for my family back in China and for my health (her parents are believers but extended family is not.) Also pray for my current and future studies. Pray also for financial aid and support.”

(Note: Our family has been enjoying our time getting to know Elizabeth. She tells us what it is like growing up in China. About being an only child (as many people are in China) and worshipping the Lord in underground home churches. She wants to study Theology in America so that she can return home and help grow the church in China. If someone has a real heart for the growing church in China and is looking for a way to help someone in particular, we have someone for you!)

A typical week at the Hospitality House

Sunday: Brian attends 11:00 traditional chapel service. This is a good opportunity to meet new soldiers. Before each service, the Chaplin will ask for first time and last time attendees. People are always coming and going. It's hard to see people that you get to know and appreciate leave. That is a constant issue for military folks. You have to learn to say goodbye so often. On the flip side, you have new people showing up who you'll develop life long friendships with.

This Sunday (2nd and the 4th Sundays) we host a brunch at the HH for single and unaccompanied soldiers. Brian brought home 5 young men who appreciated a home cooked meal and some lively conversation.

The whole family attends the contemporary service at 6:00 pm. Many of the HH regulars attend this service so it feels like we're going to our home church. We stick around for dinner afterwards. This is a time of great fellowship. We also meet the new soldiers that like to worship in this type of setting and introduce the activities at the HH to them. We try to get the new soldiers plugged in to the HH before they are introduced to other less beneficial activities at night.

However, this Sunday was rather special. Two of the HH soldiers (Tom and Jenni) who had flight duty that afternoon invited us over to the flight line to check out their 'ride'. I don't know who was more excited, Johnny or me (Brian).

At one point Johnny took off running accross the tarmac with this helmet on. It was the funniest looking thing. He was so top heavy. I'm surprised he didn't wipe out sending him and the helmet skidding across the cement.

Tom and Jeff take a look under the 'hood'. The whole gang strikes a pose.

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesdays are set aside for downtime, studying and lesson/teaching development. We also use these days for one-on-one time with individuals and or families over lunches or dinners. Last Wednesday, Jenni wanted to teach Elizabeth to bake cookies so she came over to use the kitchen. Once the word got out that cookies were being made, we soon had a dozen people mingling about. We sent someone out for subs and had a nice time together.

The girls are busy making cookies. Elizabeth shows off the first batch of cookies she has ever made.

Jennie, Judy, Tracy and baby Kelton discuss their plans. Tom is waiting with Johnny, Mary and Autumn.

Thursday: The house is cleaned and prepped for the weekend. Some of the ladies show up at 1:30 pm to start cooking for Friday's meal. Bible studies are in the evening. Judy is using Beth George's "Loving God with All Your Mind" book. She usually has 7 or 8 ladies attending with half being local Korean women. All are enjoying the fellowship and discussions. Brian has the same number of men attending. They are using "The Every Man Series" study on standing firm under pressure. There are certainly many pressure points on some of these guys;

Wife/family back in states
Long hours on duty
Dangerous jobs
Peer pressure to engage in unhealthy activities
Night life in Au Jung-Re

Friday: Cooking resumes at 1:30 pm and decorating the house based on the theme for that night. This past Friday was Chinese. We'll feed between 50 to 60 people at this event. The teamwork in something to see.

Rebecca waits for the onslaught to begin. Folks enjoying their time together.

Jung and his beautiful daughter.

After supper, we join in the large living room next to the area we eat in. Jorge leads us in a time of worship music which is followed by a time of prayer. Please see the list below and remember these requests as you spend your time in prayer. After that, Brian brings a message and then it is time for snacks and more fellowship. We close the lights usually between 11:00 and 11:30 pm.

Saturday: We try to plan an outing during the day each Saturday. Some of our soldiers work long hours and sometimes 7 days a week. They don't get to see much of Korea, so we plan excursions around the area. Saturday night we head back to the HH for leftovers. It is kick back and relax time, game time or what ever. We danced the Virginia Reel last Saturday night during the western weekend. It was such a hit we did it again this Saturday night. Take a look.

A dice game called Farkle is a house favorite (I'll explain later). The individual with the largest farkle gets the honorary Farkle Crown. Here Jonathan is the lucky one.

Prayer Request:

Pray for John and Sue. Sue was pregnant with twins and lost both. Those of you who experienced a loss of a child, whether born or not, you know how to pray for them.

For the Wright Family. Jennie had to have an urgent surgery to remove her gallbladder last Thursday. She is home now but recovery is slow. Pray for healing and strength for Jim, Megan and Colin.

For Tom: You may recall Tom and his wife Beth are adopting a girl (Sophie) in India. Pray the orphanage will be diligent and send the passport application to the US embassy. Tom and Beth are looking to have this happen in the next 2 days. This would mean they could pick-up Sophie by March 6th.

Pray for the Hersman's. Kent and Tracy adopted a Korean boy (Kelton). They are working to get a birth certificate so a passport can be obtained. This is necessary for Kelton to travel to the U.S.

Pray for Julia that her family may come to faith.

Amanda is leaving our HH family soon. Pray for strength to move on.

Jorge lost a daughter 6 years ago after 3 months of life. It was her birthday today. He needs strength during this time. His wife and other daughter are in the states. He is a dear brother.

Mike's brother in the states has taken his first job. It will take him to the west coast (he lives in the east). Pray for courage and strength while he is separated.

Thank you all for your continued support of these fine men and women and the ministry the HH provides.

You can send prayer requests our way by selecting the comment field below this post and type in your requests. Thank you to those who have been sending encouraging messages through the use of this comment field.

Stay tuned.

02/09 Update

2006-02-09T02:35:00.000-05:00

Those loving and serving the Lord in Korea

Yung was born and raised in Seoul, Korea.

He later immigrated to the U.S. and became a U.S. citizen in 1984.

As a civilian engineer, he has been working for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Far East District since June 2003 in support of construction projects for Camp Humphrey’s expansion.

"The Hospitality House encourages me to study the Bible, letting me get to know other believers through fellowship, sharing prayer subjects and concerns, and enjoying good meals."

"Please pray for God’s gracious guidance to a right Christian woman spouse."

Answer to Prayer

Thank you all for praying for the time I spent with a Colonel and several of his staff. He was asked to place the HH under his Battalion's sponsorship in order to obtain Post passes for us. He first wanted to stop by and get familiar with the ministry. I was so thankful for the support of Matt and Sergio in constructing an informative presentation. We all enjoyed a nice visit and our passes were issued the next day. Thanks for your help and support Steve (this would not have happened without you).

A taste of Korea

Some of the folks from the HH spent a day away from Au Jung-Re and duty on Post for a day of exploring and fellowship. We headed south to a site named Independence Hall. This site documents the struggle Korea endured under many years of Japanese occupation and control. It was a somber reminder of the evils man can inflict on others when pursuing selfish ambitions. It's sad to think the people of Korea went through this only to be divided after the Korean conflict. Cherish freedom. Many people here can relate to not having it.

I admit, it is a bad representation of the sculpture on our part; but we tried. In the process we amused those walking by.

After Chapel on Sunday, we were invited along with others from the HH to join Greg and Gill (pictured below) as they celebrated their 3rd wedding anniversary. We headed to a Korean buffet for many local delicacies. I (Brian) still can't get used to sitting on the floor.

When traveling to Korea, make sure you invest in 'slip-on' shoes if you plan on eating out. The food was delicious. You select your food from the buffet and cook it your self on hot plates installed in the tables.

I don't think Claire liked the fried silk worms

Please pray for:

Jennie who is going in for urgent gallbladder surgery on 2/10
Brian's Friday night message (for courage and clarity)
The men and women who are flying around the clock and in bad weather conditions

02/07 Update

2006-02-06T23:56:00.000-05:00

Hello All,
Here is an update as to what is happening here in Au Jung-Re, Korea and Camp Humphreys Army Post.

Those loving and serving the Lord

Jorge is originally from Puerto Rico AKA:“La Isla del Encanto”, Borinquen. He is active duty Army but he would tell you God has brought him here to Korea to serve Him, not just the Army and Korea.

“The (Hospitality House) reminds me of back home and a place where I experience a
foretaste of heaven where people from different backgrounds join together and worship
Him.”

“Please pray for my daughter (my wife and I are concerned about her lack of desire to eat); My wife (we would love to have another child or more children); My paternal grandmother is very ill at this time (she is in her 80s); Salvation for my third sibling (Hector); healing in relationship with my youngest brother (Juan); I am strongly considering becoming a Chaplain (I want to be sure that this is the Lord’s will in my life); wisdom at work (I want to let his light shine); the Spanish service which recently was started (Chaplain Byrd); the contemporary P&W ministry; music in my life.

Answer to Prayer

We all were praying for Sergio to get his orders that would send him to the States for a training course. It would also put him close to his family. You see, a tour (1 year) here in Korea is designated 'hardship'. The Army will not pay for your family to be with you. There are a few exceptions to this and some soldiers that attend the home have their family here. But others do not and our hearts and prayers go out to them. There are some areas of Au Jung-Re that can be very tempting to lonely soldiers.

Regarding Sergio, he had to get his orders by 5:00 p.m. Thursday to make the flight leaving Friday. I saw him Thursday at noon when he stopped by the house, he still had not heard word. When he arrived for bible study later that evening, he was smiling and carrying two luggage tags (indicating he was traveling). He told us he received his orders at 4:45 that afternoon. Thank you all for praying for this to happen.

Here Sergio and Claire share a smile. Pray Sergio and his family will have a blessed time while together.

This past Friday marked the first time we managed the night activities alone. The Roth's (who we replaced) returned home the previous Tuesday. Please pray for Brian as he prepares each Friday night's message. Pray for clarity and that the content strikes a cord with all attending. Pray for both Judy and Brian as we prepare for the Thursday night bible studies. We have a good group of men and women attending who are serious about growing and walking in the shadow of our Savior. Each Sunday at Chapel we meet new soldiers arriving on Post. Pray they would respond to our invitations and get involved with this wonderful group of folks that make up the HH ministry.

Here the group enjoys the chili and corn bread during Friday night's festivities.

Image to the right shows all those celebrating birthdays in February (from L to R, Kevin, Raquel, Stan (in red), Tom and Jeremy). We took time to recognize and celebrate the occasion with cake and ice cream.

Please pray for the following requests that where brought up during our prayer time on Friday night:

Thad's aunt who is in a controlled coma. Pray for restoration of her health
Amanda is working through the decision to see her biological father who she has not seen in a number of years. He is making efforts to see her. She is dealing with forgiveness toward him.
CJ's wife is recovering from a surgery and in the process has been laid-off from her job. They are looking to move once he returns from Korea but restorations on their current home had to be placed on hold once he was ordered to Korea. You can see many things are happening in their life. Pray for God's strength and wisdom as they work through each issue.
Jorge wife will be traveling this week. Pray for travel mercies.
Jennie's Grandmother is wrestling with health issues. Pray for healing
Adam is praying for his roommate to accept God's gift of salvation through Christ
Continue to lift up Tom and the adoption process of Sophie

Happenings around Korea

Thanks to Gill, we and the Wrights had the opportunity to visit a Korean Folk Museum not far from Au Jung-Re

We are learning so much of the history and customs of Korea. If gives us a new appreciation and perspective of God's moving among different peoples throughout history.

Thank you all for your continued prayer. It is encouraging and wonderful to see God working in the lives of those living on the other side of the world from home. Stay tuned.

Join us with Prayers for those serving in Korea

2006-02-01T20:25:00.000-05:00

02/02
Hello all,

To place faces with the names of the people you are praying for, we will add pictures of the individuals along with specific information and prayer requests. We want you all to experience as much as possible, this wonderful home and the people who frequent it. We will also share with you all a taste of Korea as we get out and explore with the new members of our family.

Those loving and Serving the Lord

Tom Phillips is originally from South Carolina.

“I am from Clarksville, TN which is where my family is now. We will be going to FT Rucker, AL in May this year. I am active duty Army deployed here by answered prayer. I am a Blackhawk helicopter pilot in the medivac unit.

The Hospitality House is the bar none #1 Blessing in Korea that has gotten me thru this last 9 months. It has truly been in every since of the words, my personal " Home away from Home"!!!! I praise and thank God for this place everyday.

My prayer request as has been mentioned... our child adoption process for a beautiful blessing and sweet baby girl in an orphanage in Bangalore, India. We are currently waiting for the final word before making travel plans to go there and pick her up. Her name is Sophie-Joy Pavithra Phillips 13 months old.”

Matt Partain is originally from California (Presidio, San Francisco), but moved around alot (dad was military).

Matt is in Korea serving his first duty assignment. He and Tom serve in the same unit and is also a Blackhawk Pilot.

“the Hospitality House is a place for fellowship with other believers, a modern-day "synagogue" where people can come to a non-threatening environment to learn about God. “

When Matt is off duty, he enjoys kicking back and engaging in a good play session with Buzz and Woody. Mary loves having a older brother for a playmate!

A taste of Au Jung-Re, Korea

When it comes to shopping, most Americans are
accustome to large indoor mega-stores where
everything in mass quantities can be found under one roof. Here in Au Jung-Re, an outdoor market opens on each day that contains a 3 or 8 in it (i.e. 3, 13, 18, etc..) The sights, sounds and smells differ widely from our experiences back home. The vendors here are most friendly and often give children free samples of the goods they are selling. The streets are narrow and can get very crowded. It takes some time to get used to seeing fish and meat sitting out. The weather this time of year helps. Although the weather has been very mild (35 to 45 highs and high 20's over night). We're hoping that trend continues.

Prayer Request

2006-01-31T06:35:00.000-05:00

PRAYER REQUESTS

We have some exciting things happening here and we wanted to share with you some specific prayer requests. We are hoping that you will get to know the people that the Hospitality House ministers to because you are part of this ministry and so that you can include them in your prayers for this ministry.

1. Tom is a pilot here and his family (wife and three children) are back in the states. They are waiting for the call to go to India to adopt their fourth child, Sophie. Please pray that the call comes soon as they have been waiting 11 months to finalize this adoption. Also pray that Sophie will be cared for by our Lord’s loving arms.

2. Sergio is a Chinook pilot whose wife and five children are back in the states. Pray that his orders for a class in the states will come through and he will be able to see his family while taking the military class.

3. On Thursday at 2:30pm our time (12:30am Thurs. morning EST) we will be meeting with a Colonel who will determine whether to support the Hospitality House and allow the missionaries who come to serve here to have post passes. This is a very important meeting. Brian, Brian and a Lt. Colonel will be presenting at the meeting. Please pray that we will gain the favor of this Colonel. Having passes to get onto the post is very, very helpful. It allows Brian or myself us more access to those we are ministering to, it gives us the opportunity to meet with soldiers during their lunch hour and helps us relate to their daily lives.

4. Please pray for our bible studies on Thursday night. Pray for a time of growth and God's hand on those who come and on us as well. Pray that the young men that Brian invited will come.

So little time...

2006-01-31T05:29:00.000-05:00

We feel that our first week here has just flown by! We have been busy learning the “ropes” from Denny and Jeannie. They have been such a blessing to the Hospitality House and will be missed very much!

We have met so many wonderful people! The community is so loving and supportive. They have made us feel welcome and are already blessing us with their acceptance and caring.

The busy week begins on Wednesday with a women’s bible study at the Chapel on post in the morning, shopping for the weekend and then dinner at our apartment with a family or soldier. Thursday we begin cooking for Friday night and have a men’s and women’s bible study in the evening. Each study has about 10 people attending. With Friday comes more cooking and decorating and preparing for dinner and bible study for approximately 60. Everyone is welcome on Friday nights; families, singles, unaccompanied soldiers, local Koreans, everyone! Saturday is a good day for a fun field trip or event during the day. We serve another smaller dinner on Saturday night and have time for fun and fellowship with games, movies or whatever. On Sunday we attend Chapel in the morning, Sunday dinner at the House twice a month, and Chapel in the evening. There is a brand new youth group that Katie and Claire went to on Sunday afternoon and met some other kids from the post. Then on Monday and Tuesday we recover!

Last week we shopped at the Korean grocery store. They had good produce, some that were unrecognizable. Katie was impressed with the hind quarter of a pig hanging in the meat counter that still had his tail! Lot’s of stinky dead fish, some dried to be eaten as snacks like we would eat chips. On Saturday we ate at a Korean restaurant to celebrate Rebecca’s birthday. We sat on the floor and ate mini octopus! Then we shopped at the outdoor market with all of the smelly fish although, the strawberries were delicious.

The air and water quality are terrible here but the people are kind and gentle. It is very safe here. We are so excited to be here! Thank you for praying for us and for supporting us. We pray that the Lord will bless each of you for becoming a part of this ministry with us!

WE MADE IT!

2006-01-27T02:21:00.000-05:00

It is Friday afternoon here in Au Jung-Ri and this first message is from Brian. Thanks be to God, we made it! If there is any upside to a 25 hour traveling ordeal, we experienced it. Our children impressed Judy and me beyond all expectations (I am sure it was all the prayers). I have to admit, I was not looking forward to the travel. I knew that Katie and Claire would do fine. They often impress me with their attitude, flexibility and resilience. My doubts were with Mary and Johnny, of course. As you can imagine, Judy was prepared. She armed herself with activities, diversion strategies, plans and back-up plans, pillows, blankets, foods and beverages of all types, riding ponies, high flying acts and if all else failed, drugs! Of course, they were toxic free and perfectly safe for consumption by children.

We reached Tokyo in 12 hours unscathed. Unfortunately, Johnny decided it was time for bed on our decent into Japan. It was then we realized the price you pay when you plan on taking all the contents or your home stuffed in carry-ons and you lose a pair of hands when someone has to carry off a sleeping child. Everyone else had to pick up the slack. Katie and Claire were most impressive pulling, pushing and carrying bags off that plane. (Why do they call those large planes wide bodies? After spending 12 hours in one that is the last description I would ever lend to one!) Anyway, we were the last to get off and had many unhappy and unhelpful stewardesses watching and waiting for us. We soon realized that the problem with being so slow is that we had no one to follow to the gate areas. Compound that with my rusty command of the Japanese language J, carrying a sleeping child who now weighed 150lbs plus pushing, pulling and carrying the contents of our home in little bags, we soon found ourselves lost and traveling unnecessary distances. All ended well when we found our way to the gate and had some time to regroup. Our best decision while in that airport was to check some of our carry-on bags, the ponies and the circus act. Both Johnny and Mary slept during the 2 hour flight from Tokyo to Seoul.

Once in Seoul I thought I had this international traveling thing down. While Judy was filling out some additional paperwork, I took the kids (who were all under their own power at this time) and got in line for Immigrations. I was surprised that we were the only non-Asian’s entering Korea. I spent the next 20 minutes or so enjoying my un-obstructive view over the heads of my fellow line standers until someone pointed out the fact that I was somewhere I did not belong. Unless I could prove I was Korean, I would have to promptly exit the line and move down the concourse to the “real” Immigration point. Off we went again. To add insult to injury, there were stations available with no one waiting. Even after this, all would have ended well if I did not rely on intuitive reasoning when moving to the correct baggage claims area to pick up all our worldly possessions. However, we could not find an area that indicated a flight from Tokyo or Detroit. We sow no one to ask so I walked to the other claim areas while the rest waited behind. The only other U.S. originated flight was from Seattle. Well that couldn’t be it! So I continued my search. After 15 minutes of walking the claims area I heard a faint little voice calling, “Mr. Be, Mr. Be”. I turned to see our cute little Asian flight stewardess running toward me waiving her arm. “You come get luggage, you come get luggage. You last one to get it.” She then promptly led me to the claiming area for the flight from Seattle. I still can’t figure out how she knew me or why our luggage was there. I didn’t dare take the time to ask. We loaded up the carts.

All the while, I knew some poor souls were waiting out in the lobby for our arrival. In fact Kent and Tracy were all smiles when we met up with them. The wait did not dampen their spirits. Now somewhere in the recesses of my mind I had figured that a post that is 45 miles from the airport would take approx. 1 hour to get to. You can imagine my surprise and joy when our hosts indicated we still had a 2-3 hour ride to the house. But the best part of this leg of the journey was packing 600 pounds of luggage and 10 people into a vehicle roughly the size of a large minivan. We could have sold tickets but there wasn’t much of an audience at 11:30 pm local time.

But we are here now. We are settled into the very comfortable hospitality house apartment. We are getting a jump start into how the house operates. Dennis and Jeanne Roth, the couple we are replacing, have been doing a great job running this house and showing us the ropes. We pray that our ministry can be half as effective.

Please pray for:
1. Guidance on planning the schedule and activities for the home.
2. Acceptance by those who count on the teaching and fellowship this home provides
3. Health for our family. It is winter here and illnesses abound.
4. Some boxes to arrive by an act of God. (We didn’t send them the right way.)

We are so grateful to you all who are supporting us in so many ways. We are excited to see how God will work in and through us during the next 7 weeks. We will update this site as often as possible with news and prayer requests.

Korea, Here we come!

2005-11-01T22:24:00.000-05:00

November, 2005

Greetings all,

The Beer family is very excited to report that we will be moving forward with our assignment with Cadence. As you may recall in our last letter, we shared our disappointment in postponing our trip to Kaiserslautern, Germany. There were a number of factors contributing to that decision, but the bottom line was that God made it clear we were not to go to Germany. Since that time we have continued to be sensitive to the Lord’s leading and have been seeking His will for our next steps. We have also been busy working with Cadence to monitor transition schedules of Hospitality Houses around the world to determine needs and time tables. Having done this, and after much prayer and waiting, we now have a new destination and departure date.

On Tuesday, January 24, our family will be traveling to Seoul, Korea where we will manage a Hospitality House near Camp Humphreys for seven weeks. (Brrr, it’s really cold there!) This Army base, which is located about 35 miles south of Seoul near the city of Pyongtaek, is home to a number of units including the 6th Cavalry and the 23rd Support Group. The home is currently being managed by short term staff like us, until the designated full time hosts arrive. We want to thank each of you who have been praying for us, please continue doing so; it means so much to us. Also, thank you to those who were able to contribute to our financial support account. We will be applying those funds to this trip. At this point we still need to raise approximately $4000. If you are able to join with us in the blessings of this ministry with a tax-deductible financial gift please use the enclosed form/envelope. We would be honored to have you as our partner in this ministry.

During these busy holidays and as we prepare to leave please pray for:
God to shape and prepare us with the tools we need to minister to those we will meet.
A calm and organized spirit as we deal with the logistics of packing a family of 6 for a 15 hour plane ride and 7 weeks in a foreign country!

We are so excited that God is allowing us to serve Him as a family in this way!

In His Service,

The Beer Family
Brian, Judy, Katie [14], Claire [12], Mary [6] and Johnny [3]

God's timing is not always our timing

2005-08-01T22:21:00.000-04:00

August 1, 2005

Greetings all,

It’s with great disappointment that we notify you all of the postponement of our trip to Kaiserslautern, Germany. There where a number of factors contributing to this decision. Most notably was the shortfall in financial support, some family issues that needed to be addressed and our inability to work out some logistical issues at home. However, we understand God’s timing is perfect and if He did not meet all of these needs, we would not be obedient if we moved forward. In light of this, we chose to postpone. Even though this has been a difficult time, we are thankful for all we are learning about ourselves and what it takes to be prepared for the mission field. Thank you to all who have been praying for us and providing wise counsel. At the time of this writing, we do not have a new departure date or a destination. We have been communicating with Cadence’s home office to establish the next steps. We are so grateful for the response we have received and continue to receive. We will continue to raise support and solicit your prayers as we move forward to another assignment. As soon as we have more to communicate we will be providing an update. Until then, please pray for:

· Discerning God’s timetable in our going
· Discerning where God wants us to focus our attention and energy as we wait
· Not to be discouraged but to understand and recognize “God’s perfect and pleasing will”

In His Service,

The Beer Family
Brian, Judy, Katie [13], Claire [12], Mary [6] and Johnny [2]

How it all Began

2005-06-01T19:58:00.000-04:00

June, 2005

Just when you think you have life figured out, things change. You set your energies on certain destinations only to find you’re on a road to somewhere else. It’s on this road that the Beer family finds itself.

As many of you know, Brian left Corporate America last June to team up with Judy and the kids to build several home-based businesses. God had made it clear that it was time to begin a new chapter in the life of our family. We wanted to be working together more and learning new lessons through different endeavors. Our response and reasoning went something like this, “Hey, we love and serve a big God. He has always met our needs. Why not step out in faith and trust Him in new ways?” We believe God has delighted in our taking this step and in the fact that we’re off balance a little. We’re out of our comfort zone and we’re easily moved in new directions. We think He has us right where He wants us.

To prove this fact, the Beer family will now be leaving for Germany on July 10th. We will spend one month in Kaiserslautern ministering to military personnel of the 435th Air Base Wing (ABW) stationed at Ramstein Air Force Base. See, we told you things are changing! How did this happen, you ask. Well, it started five years ago when our family visited Steve and Kathy Fisher in Vicenza, Italy. They were serving with a mission agency called Cadence International. This organization ministers to American military personnel on many bases around the world. The mission operates hospitality houses where these young people can temporarily escape the demands of military life. They are often homesick, looking for some answers, friends and a home-cooked meal. “House parents” are expected to have experience in evangelism, discipleship, teaching, and hospitality. They provide an environment in which to minister to these individuals. The homes are located off base in the community. While visiting with the Fishers and getting involved in their efforts, we instantly connected with the ministry. We realized that someday we would be doing the same thing.

This past winter we were reacquainted with Cadence when the Fishers and Kevin Yapp (also with Cadence) attended a dinner we hosted. In light of the recent changes our family had made, they encouraged us to pursue this opportunity now. We did! Now we’re going! For a short time anyway.

The plan is to fill in at the Kaiserslautern house for five weeks while a transition in leadership takes place. This will also give our entire family an ‘updated’ perspective on the ministry and confi rmation from God as to whether or not we should continue in this. After that, only the Lord knows where we will go next and for how long. However, one thing we do know is that we need you. The mission of Christ does not rest on the shoulders of a few but the collective shoulders of the Body (Christ’s church). Our family needs your support in two areas: prayer and finances. God has given us the ultimate privilege of communicating with Him through prayer.

“The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective” James 6:16.

Our current prayer requests include—
• finding someone to home-sit our house and watch over our pets
• that our hearts and minds will be prepared for the ministry demands in which we’ll find ourselves
• and to meet the financial demands of such a trip. If you are led to also support us fi nancially we would be greatly encouraged. At this time we are asking for special gifts to cover our travel expenses, ministry expenses in Germany and home related expenses. You may use the enclosed slip to send your tax-deductible gift. We would love to have you join us in the blessings of this ministry!

Thank you for your prayers and support as we embark on this new chapter in our lives.

In His Service,
the Beer Family
Brian, Judy, Katie [13], Claire [11], Mary [5], and Johnny [2]