Free ARP Magazines for Prison Ministries
According to a March Pew Research survey of prison chaplains, the number of religions practiced in prisons across the US is growing:
51% cited cited Islam as fastest growing.
47% also saw Christianity growing quickly.
Other popular religions among inmates include Paganism, Native American Spirituality and Judaism.
A slight growth was cited in the following: Mormonism, Catholicism and Buddhism.
In this diverse religious landscape in reaching inmates for Christ, we cannot be complacent and think the only religious material they’re receiving is Christian material. We have to be sure our material is clear, and make it count – with messages that will touch their hearts and lead them to Christ.
Does your church have a prison ministry? If you do, you can receive free magazines for this important ministry. Please contact stanner@arpsynod.org or arpeditor@arpsynod.org for more information.
Prayer Request from New Church Planter
Rev. Tim Weldon is excited to be planting the Afton Run Church (NC) with the ARP Church. “We have come to love the ARP Church because of its strong stance on Scripture, its conservative values, and family feel,” Weldon said.
As he moves forward in this work, our prayers are needed. “One of the core values of our church is that we would be a people who are prayer-dependent,” he said. “Would you pray with us?”
- God’s Kingdom would grow through our church (Matthew 6:9-10).
- God would open up opportunities within the community for the gospel to go out and for lives to be transformed.
- God would equip our core group for the work of the ministry of the church.
- God would protect us from evil and protect our families.
- God would provide a temporary facility for worship.
- God would financially provide both one time and monthly support.
Read the rest of Tim Weldon’s story about becoming an ARP church planter on ONA’s page in the November/December ARP Magazine. To subscribe: stanner@arpsynod.org or call 864-232-8441.
Violins Needed
At the Hispanic Mission, we are forming a string band and are in need of some violins. So far we have 10 musicians with guitars and two are borrowing violins. If a church or individual has an instrument they would like to donate or sell at affordable price, please let me know:
Pbro. Juan C. Unda A.
(828) 551-8917
juanitounda@juno.com
ARP New Ministers/Staff Orientation Quotes
New Minister/Staff Orientation was held Sept. 24-25 in Greenville, SC. Staff from each agency of General Synod gave a presentation, explaining their ministry’s mission and goals. Here are a few quotes from attendees:
“Just spent two days being reminded of the way the Lord has used (and is using) the ARP to the glory of Christ and His Kingdom ministry. So thankful for the blessing Bonclarken and Erskine have especially been in my life and will be for generations to come,” (new employee).
“Made me realize as a church planter that there are many resources at my disposal. I’m not out there alone” (new minister/church planter).
“Orientation really made me feel like a part of a family—the ARP family. To get to meet other people in the denomination was very helpful” (new minister).
“Very helpful big picture of the denomination’s agencies. I always appreciate ‘changed lives’ stories as well as learning how things work…and getting acquainted with the new ministers and staff – many quality people!” (new employee).