The Sudbrock Scoop

August

August has just spun by. On the tenth, we had a baptism at the church. Adela surrendered herself for baptism and completed the discipleship classes necessary in order to be baptized in spite of the fact that her Atheist father is quite open about his unbelief. What an awesome experience to be able to see this nine year old girl give her life to God. God has used he in our lives since her birth. You see, her mother and I first met at mother/baby aerobics. It didn't take God long to bring us together and build a friendship between us. Soon, Adela's mom began attending Bible study in our home. Now, 9 year later, she is an active part of our church and brings all three of her children to Sunday School on a regular basis. We were able to see Adela accept Christ as her Saviour two years ago and this past spring, she came and asked if she could be baptized. I asked her how her father felt about it and she replied, "I wanted to ask you first." After Adela and her mother talked to her father, he agreed to let her choose Christianity if that is what she wants. Her father even attended the service along with 40 other people and spent the afternoon as we celebrated our newest member. Please pray with Adela for her father's salvation.

It was Back-to-school Sunday at church today and we had 25 people there for services and dinner on the grounds. School starts back up tomorrow and I think I am more nervous than my children. Skyler will be going into the 5th grade, which is the first grade in the high school here. After a year of homeschooling, this will be a new start for him, new friends, new school, new opportunities. Samantha will continue with her class into the 4th grade. In our city, the children have the same teacher and classmates for the first 4 years of school. Serenity will start the 1st grade. She is ready and eager, nervous and scared. But she has everything ready for her first day and is sleeping soundly. Sadie will be attending kindergarten this year. We are praying for good friends for all of our children. In this Atheist society, it is not easy to find good friends, so we are praying extra earnestly for God's provision. We are praying for wisdom, guidance, protection, and just overall blessings from God for our children for the new school year.

Our church is just a 5 minute walk from Skyler's new school, so we are praying that God will show us how to minister to this large group of Germany's future. We are considering using the church as an after school activity center, offering music and English groups. The details are not clear yet and we are still praying for God's guidance.

Thank you for praying for the our financial needs. The dollar has been gaining strength! What a blessing that has been.

I'm eager to hear what your fall has in store as well. Write and tell me all about it.

Chelli

“Pastor, I am praying for you.“

Are they simple words, or a powerful resource?

“Pastor, I am praying for you,” words spoken by an older lady that attends our services here in Wittenberg, Germany every other Sunday. Looking into her eyes, a flood of gratefulness overcame me. She continued and emphasized that she prays that I will not grow discouraged in the fight.

Today, I received the testimony of Tony Snow. As I read,” Think of the prayer warriors in our midst. They change things, and those of us who have been on the receiving end of their petitions and intercessions know it. It is hard to describe, but there are times when suddenly the hairs on the back of your neck stand up, and you feel a surge of the Spirit. Somehow you just know: Others have chosen, when talking to the Author of all creation, to lift us up, - to speak of us!” Instantly tears welled up and I was again overwhelmed with the sincere prayers of warriors fighting for me and my family.

Thank You God, for calling those who support us in prayer! When money fails, it is prayer that sustains us. When governments say “no” it is prayer that opens a way. When health fails it is faithful prayer that brings healing. It is enough to say, we feel your prayers!

This last quarter, God has brought a new soul into the family. Thomas found us through our website and sent an email asking for an appointment. He was ripe fruit. It was an easy lead to Christ. He is now growing and we are discipling him. He surprised everyone a few weeks ago with a new hair style. When asked what brought about the change, he simply stated, “my hair was drawing attention away from Christ. Wow! If we would all analyze every aspect of our lives with that measurement, what a difference it would make.

As a result of our Children’s Day Festival God has blessed us with a family of five. The father said, “We will be here every 14 days. You can count on us.”

We are looking forward to a fall full of events. Several are to be baptized. Baptism is an awesome outreach opportunity for our new believers. It is often their first real outward expression of faith in Christ and a great soul winning opportunity. The candidate is required to make a video of their salvation testimony that will be shown before they are baptized. They invite friends and family and we have always been blessed with a full auditorium by baptisms. We are praying that the upcoming baptisms are no exception and that God will gather in the harvest as a result of these outreach opportunities.

Extra blessings:

• Five year old camera was replaced with the newest model due to a faulty sensor – factory guarantee.

• In spite of dry conditions, God has blessed us with a good harvest of berries and other fruit.

• Our Church people gave us a special gift to help offset some of the challenges due to the weak dollar.

• Our washing machine went out and God provide new support to help pay the payments for a new one.

Thank God for the support that He so generously provides through you!

Paul Sudbrock

Looking for Ryan Raley

We recently received a letter from a Ryan Raley, a sixth grader from Bible Baptist Christian School. The problem is, we don't know which one. There was no return address or reference letting us know how we could write him back. If you know who Ryan is, could you please have him send us his contact information. We would love to correspond with him if only we had an address.

Thanks!

The Sudbrocks

School is out! - almost

School is almost out for the summer. We have just 3 more days to go. In Sunday School, we sing a song that says, "Its finally here, sunshine and vacation time. Pack your bags. Hit the road. All the fun of summertime has arrived. But don't forget that even at this time, God wants to be your best companion ever." It goes on to talk about witnessing for Christ wherever you go during your summer adventures. The kids sang it with gusto this morning. The time has almost arrived for doing just that - hitting the road and carrying the Gospel to every summer fun spot imaginable.

Our church people surprised us with the most wonderful gift at the end of the service this morning. They presented us with an envelope and gave us instructions to take the kids and get away for a day of pure fun! Knowing that the exchange rate is so bad and seeing how funds are stretched for us right now, they were moved to give in order for us to have some down time this summer. Needless to say, I cried! What an awesome group of people God has given us to work with here.

We haven't decided yet where we will spend our day off, but we know we will be taking our comforter and Savior along to share with others.

We have also been blessed with a new family that has been visiting on a regular basis. The daughter, L., goes to school with our Samantha. Please pray with us that L. and her parents will get saved and become active members of the church here in Wittenberg.

The summer break here is 6 weeks long. This is our time of regrouping and planning for our next year of ministry. Please pray with us that God will guide our path and show us clearly what He would have us do in the coming months.

We appreciate all of you so very much!

A few financial blessings for this week:

• the "day off" gift certificate from our church
• a bush full of blackberries
• tomatoes are coming ripe
• Canon recalled our old camera and sent us a brand new, updated version
• another mother from Samantha's class approached us about carpooling for the different school activities
• We were given gift certificates this week from three different sources. One for the garden center, one for the book store and and another for a drug store. So cool!

Keep praying for us! God is providing in miraculous ways.

Chelli

A bushel of strawberries

For all of you who were wondering what to do with a bushel of strawberries, I will share with you what we did with them.

First of all, the kids finished off quite a few before we got home. Then I washed them up. My dad suggested freezing the bit size ones to eat on a hot day, so we froze a gallon bag full of strawberries. We used another pound of them to make ice cream. One night for supper, we had fresh strawberries, hot biscuits and cream. Yum! We also had some with our breakfast one morning. With 6 people, a bushel of strawberries doesn't have a very long life. I didn't make jelly though. My strawberry jelly never seems to turn out the way I wish it would.

Now, for the two 5-gallon buckets of sweet cherries. Well that is another topic all together! They keep a little longer than strawberries, so we are enjoying them fresh as much as possible. They travel well in school lunches too. I have frozen a gallon bag full. Then we had some in ice cream. But most importantly, they are turning into jelly. So far, I have 20 pints ready to go to the pantry. Cleaning the strawberries was a cinch compared to cleaning and pitting 10 gallons of cherries! My fingers are a funny color of purple now.

Thank you for praying for us. The blessings of fruit from the Lord have been so wonderful this year. I remember our first summer in Germany. People would give us so much fruit and it was just Paul and I. We didn't have a freezer yet, and I didn't have any canning jars. We ate as much of it as we could and we gave some away, but in the end, a lot of it spoiled - cherries, plums, berries, peaches. I felt so terrible about not being able to preserve any of it, I just sat and cried. I begged God for the things we would need to store the next gifts of fruit that He sent our way. In the years since then, He has provided us with a large freezer and plenty of canning jars, and He continues to bless us with fruit each year.

It is however for the bushels of souls that we are most thankful. Please continue to pray with us to see fruit from the spiritual seeds which have been planted during our 10 years in Wittenberg. The summer holds so much promise.

Praying for fruit in your life as well,

Chelli

alternate reality

Recently we were pondering the state of the world, including how it all has affected our finances and our ministry. The thought that we may be forced to return to the states and abandon our dream, our vision, our ministry here, left me pretty down. The "reality" of the situation really packed a wallop. After an "anti-depression nap", I awoke refreshed and with an idea to make an alternate reality list. I began listing the many recent blessings that God has showered upon us. Then I determined to live in this alternate reality. If God sees fit to send us back to the states, it will be His doing, in His time, and it will be the right thing to do. Until then, I will focus on the path that I am on and I will live in the blessings that He rains down on me. Here are just a few of the blessings that we have experienced lately.

1. My children are all old enough to play outside by themselves.

2. The children get along well and love playing with one another.

3. The neighbor kids are friendly and enjoy playing with our kids.

4. We were given a bushel of strawberries yesterday.

5. We were given a mixing bowel of cherries today.

6. We went to a picnic yesterday and they sent us home with enough food to last a few days.

7. We are all healthy.

8. The gout has left my hand.

9. We had people at church today.

10. Two families contacted us this week asking for info about our Sunday School so that they can bring their children.

11. We have email and are not isolated here.

12. We celebrated our 16th wedding anniversary this weekend.

13. Our children are bi-lingual - an awesome advantage that we didn't have.

14. Our children are musical - an awesome talent that we never developed.

. . .

I would love to hear some of your recent blessings.

Chelli

Mothers in Need - Babies in Need

A recent survey published in the Spiegel magazine in Germany stated that 33% of Germans would abort a disabled child. In 2006 12,753 minors got pregnant in Germany. 42% chose to have an abortion.

Please pray for us as we seek God's guidance as to how to reach these young ladies with the hope of the Gospel.

In the meantime, we have a success story of one unwed mother who turned to us for help when she discovered she was expecting. She gave birth last week to a beautiful baby girl, Jodie Anne. Mother and baby are doing fine. Please pray with us for Jodie Anne and her mom. They are precious to us.

Thanks!

Chelli

Taxes

With taxes being a big topic in the news lately, I thought you might find this little bit of German tax info interesting.

In Germany, the Lutheran, Catholic, and Jewish citizens pay church taxes. The tax - 8-10% of their income - goes to the German version of the IRS. The IRS then keeps 3% as a processing fee. The rest is divided up amongst the churches depending upon their membership. Children, teens, senior citizens and the unemployed do not have to pay this tax, but are still allowed to be members of these churches.

In 2005 the German IRS collected 8 Trillion Euro in church tax. That is a few Billion less than in 1995. 20% of what is given to the churches goes toward social programs, kindergartens and help organizations. The other 80% goes directly to the church leaders to use as they see fit.

So, in Germany, if your parents have you baptized as a baby into one of these churches, when you turn 18 that church will start collecting 10% of your income as church tax.

This causes problems for us sometimes. First of all, some do not want to get baptized because they are afraid we will start taking money out of their paycheck like the state churches do. Then, in order for us to baptize someone who is in the state church, they must officially fill out the paperwork to withdraw from that church. Secondly, the people are not used to giving an offering because it has always been taken directly out of their paycheck. It is often very difficult to bring across the idea of tithes and offerings.

Chelli

Prayers of Thanksgiving

I'm shouting! Happy Shouts! Can you hear them! I am in awe! God is so good to me!

This afternoon, I asked Paul if he would like to walk to the grocery with me. "Sure, do we need shopping bags?" he asked. "Well, I planned on taking the two-wheeler (a shopping bag on wheels)," I replied. On second thought, Paul grabbed two canvas bags out of the drawer next to the door, just in case. Ping! There it was on the floor. My wedding ring! Thank you so much Lord. We had a praise session right then and there. So, how did my ring end up in among the shopping bags? We really don't know. Do you realize how long that ring could have lain in that drawer before I would have found it? We figure we had no intention of cleaning that drawer out until we retire and move back to the states. That is a good 30 years down the road. Thank You Lord for giving it back to me now!

And a big thank you to all of you who have been praying that I would get it back. Your letters of encouragement were so great. You all have so much faith. Thank you so much!

I hope you have a wonderful Sunday. Tell the people at church thank you for praying for me!

Chelli

First Quarter of 2008

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

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

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

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

The first two of which were without question impossible:

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

2. Become a part of the central organization.

3. Purchase the building.

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

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

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

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

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

herzliche Grüße und danke aus dem Schwarzwald“

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

Best Wishes and thank you from the Black Forest!”

Thanks for your continued support,

Paul Sudbrock

Dad's Cancer is back

We received news this week that my Dad's cancer is back. They will begin radiation treatments soon. Please pray with us for Albert Sudbrock's healing. As you can imagine this weighs heavy on our hearts, especially with us being so far from home. Dad is also my pastor and carries many responsibilities that will need to be delegated out to others. We are all praying that God will send a young pastor who has a heart and a vision for Newton, IA, to help in this time of need.

Thank you so much for holding us up in prayer.

Paul

May Day

Happy May Day!

May first was a national holiday here in Germany. Parts of the country celebrated Ascension Day while the others celebrated International Men's Day. The day was sunny and warm, a great day for a BBQ at the church. Our regular Thursday night Bible study decided to meet at the church for a BBQ and spend the evening together. We had 13 people in attendance with 1 first time visitor. It was a good evening.

June 1, is International Children's Day and we will celebrate by hosting a Children's Festival at the church. Please pray for us as we make all the necessary preparations. Pray that we will have lots of kids visit and that they will have a great time and want to come back on a regular basis.

Now for the bad news, on May Day, I lost two very important things. First, while eating chips and salsa, I broke off part of a molar. God was so good to me. My regular dentist is on vacation, but his office referred me to a great dentist who did her best to save the tooth and spare the cost of having it crowned. The total cost was $100. More than I had expected to spend on dental this month, but a whole lot less than a crown. Second, while cleaning up after the BBQ, I looked down at my left hand and saw that my wedding ring was missing. I have no idea what happened, when or where. We had just gotten sized down to fit better while we were home on furlough. We spent yesterday morning (after the dentist appointment) at the church looking for it, but it is still hiding somewhere. I have an infection in my right shoulder, so I have been doing everything with my left hand for a couple of days. I remember having it on Monday and am pretty sure that it was there on Wednesday, but with the pain in my arm, I have been a little preoccupied. As you think about us, would you pray with me that I find my wedding ring. It makes me ill to think about the fact that it could be gone forever. I am so glad my treasure is laid up in heaven. The idea of having to protect such a treasure here on earth exhausts me.

Thank you for your prayers! Please mention our name the next time you talk with the Father.

Chelli

financial prayers

Many of you are praying for the financial situation of the European missionaries on a daily basis. Thank you so much. A few have even raised our support in the past couple of months. Thank you. I know things are tight in the states as well. Prices are going up eveywhere. We pray for you as well.

As I was finishing up our financial accountability worksheets for the month, I thought you might be interested in seeing how fast things are changing around here.

In February, 500€ cost us $724

In April, 500€ cost us $792

Just 7 years ago, 500€ cost us $430.

The same price increases you are seeing in the states are happening here. The prices are going up. The dollar is going down and the bank account is burning at both ends.

I am so thankful that I serve a God who knows where I live!

Thank you for your faithful prayers and support.

Chelli

Miracle Mushrooms

Growing up, there was nothing like mushroom hunting in the spring. And few delicacies so great as Dad's fried mushrooms or Grandpa's scrambled eggs with mushrooms. Just the scent of morel mushrooms brings bag fond memories. Since we moved to Germany they have developed a whole new meaning for our family. They are rare here in our area. For the first 7 years, we never saw a single one and rarely spoke with a person who had eaten one. Then, one day when Samantha was just 2 years old, she discovered them in a mulched flower bed. They were such an encouragement from the Lord, at a time when we really needed it, that we called them our miracle mushrooms. On Monday of last week, as Samantha and I were walking to meet the school bus, something unusual caught out attention in the flower bed at the local grocery store. You guessed it! Morel Mushrooms! And not just a few like the first time. This time we walked away with a half gallon bag full. One week later, as we were walking to the bus stop again, a new batch had sprouted up and was waiting there for us! What a wonderful blessing from the Lord. Once again, at a time when we have been discouraged by finances and the personal struggles of our church people, the Lord showed us that He is watching over us, even in the little things. The miracle mushrooms are back! And we are enjoying them. They make a wonderful Manna Meal nourishing so much more than just our physical bodies.

Thank you for your prayers for us! Please continue to pray for God's miraculous provision, especially in this time of financial uncertainty.

Guten Appetit! Enjoy your meal!

Chelli

Educational hazards

Attending Bible College can be dangerous. While I was there, I broke my ankle. Paul broke his nose. Others that we knew broke arms, legs and even one who broke his neck - and lived! But this week, we experienced a first. Vivian discovered that dorm life can indeed be hazardous. All of her limbs are in tact and she is doing well. From first glance, you wouldn't know she had experienced so much pain this week, but as soon as she flashes her new smile, you will know not all is as it appears. While goofing around with her roommate, Vivian lost her balance and wasn't quick enough with her hands to catch herself. The floor came at her fast, and her mouth broke the fall. The first of her front teeth broke off upon impact. The sound was so strange, she came up laughing more than crying, but unfortunately that was not the end of her tears. The evening of her accident, she visited the ER with her roommate. They referred her to a specialist and the next morning she went to the dentist. He then pulled her second front top tooth. The two eye teeth are damaged as well, but the dentist believes they can be capped.

Please pray for Vivian as she heals. Pray for wisdom for her as she deals with insurance companies and dentists, seeking the best treatment at the best price. With just one month left of school, Vivian needs our prayers that her year at Bible college will end well.

Thank you so much for your love and prayers.

Chelli

Praying for Germany

Recently I was asked how someone could best pray for Germany. Well, Germany is a diverse country, so I won't pretend to know what the many needs are throughout the land. After some prayer and consideration though, a list began to form and I wanted to share it with you. When you pray for us and our work in Wittenberg, Germany, please pray with us for the German people we minster among.

- church growth – We need to see the Biblical churches that are here grow.

- Depression – 70% of all Germans receive clinical treatment for depression at some point in their lives

- New leaders – Our young people need to raise up and take leadership for the Lord.

- Prayer warriors – our elderly need to wake up and see the importance of their role as prayer warriors

- Islam – The Muslim religion is growing by leaps and bounds and in Germany

- Truth – May the truth be known throughout Germany. The majority of east Germans are Atheists. May their eyes be opened.

- Need – Germans are generally a wealthy group of people who see no need for God. May God remind them of their ultimate need.

- Families – Germany is in need of good strong, large families. Most Germans only have one child and many never marry. The German population is shrinking rather than growing.

Thank you for your love and prayers.

Chelli

At Home

Paul's mom is home from the hospital. Here is the latest update on Dorthea:

She is home! we got home at around six PM Friday the 04.04.08

She is doing well but we still have a few trips to the

doctor and then it will be time to start physical tharphy for about a

month. So thanks to all of you who were so faithful in prayer

for us. We were there from Monday until Friday. She can

climb stairs and walk a great distance compared to what she was able to do. She is walking and

standing like she hasn't done for years.

You can't keep a good woman down.

God Bless you all and THANKS.

Pastor Al Sudbrock

Dorthea doing well

The surgery went well. The only problem that she has is with the

morphine: it is keeping her really sleepy. They took her off of it at noon today and said it

would take a few hours to get out of her system. Thanks to all of you for your prayers and your

response to my e-mail. You are great. But please continue to pray for Dorthea's recovery now.

God Bless all of you.

Al Sudbrock

Newton, IA

Pray for Dorthea Sudbrock

Please pray for Dorthea Sudbrock, pastor's wife at Newton Baptist Temple, Newton, IA, and Paul's mom. She will be having knee replacement surgery on Monday morning. The last time she had a major surgery, we almost lost her, so we are a little concerned about this one as well. Please keep her and her family in prayer Monday.

Thank you so much!

Its a good Friday!

Traditionally throughout eastern Germany there will be Easter Bonfires lit to celebrate the holy weekend. Last year, the weather was so dry, they were banned. This year snow loomed on the horizon. It snowed on Wednesday for the first time all winter. Then again Thursday, it snowed off and on all morning. Our church people had planned a bonfire for Thursday evening. Just an hour before the scheduled start, it poured rain. Then the skies cleared, the fire was lit and the people began showing up. We had 20 children present for games, crafts, stories and roasted marshmallows. A good group of adults gathered around the fire singing songs, eating hot dogs and just having a good time of fellowship. I was able to use the egg shaped cake tins that my sister gave me and the Easter sprinkles to make carrot cakes for everyone. It was a busy day, but well worth it. There were a lot of first time visitors there. We are looking forward to a wonderful Resurrection Day! I pray yours is blessed as well!

Chelli

Passah

13 people attended our Passah celebration this evening. Our evangelistic team decided to host an evening meal centered around the traditions of the Jewish Passover. There were at least 3 unsaved adults present. At each stage of the celebration, the old traditions were explained, scripture was read and the hope of Christ was pointed out. It made for a very busy evening, but a meaningful one as well. Please pray with us that those who attended will continue to pondering the will of God throughout this year's Easter Celebrations.

I hope you are having a wonderful spring and I look forward to hearing how you will celebrate the resurrection this year.

Blessings,

Chelli

Victory

We are praising the Lord for His blessings! Many of you have been praying for our children and their schooling. This week, we recieved an answer to our prayers. The week we arrived back in Germany, the grade school principal called and said that a complaint had been registered against us saying that we were keeping our children out of school. At that point, Samantha was back in school, but apparently, at least one of the teachers was frustrated with us because we hadn't put Serenity into the first grade. We placed a call to the Minister of Education for our state and found that he was sick. We continued to call back each week and he was always sick. This week, he came back to work, though not fully recovered, and called us. After a short talk over the phone, he told us to inform the school principal that Serenity would be starting the first grade in the fall and that we did not have to enroll her now. Any questions regarding this decision were to be directed to the Minister of Education. It is official! We have received government permission to follow through with our children's schooling as planned. Skyler will re-enter the public system in the fall and be in the German fifth grade. Samantha will continue with her class at the German elementary school, attending the 4th grade in the fall and Serenity will start the first grade this fall, leaving Sadie to start the first grade next fall.

Please continue to pray for our children as they attend school in an ahteist area of Germany. This means the number of other children claiming to believe in God is very small. In Samantha's class, there is only one other girl who claims Christianity. It is not an easy path that is before us, but the Lord placed us here and will continue to guide and protect us.

Thank you for praying with us through this victory!

inflation

The cost of ministering in Germany continues to soar. The cost of heating our apartment has doubled every year for the past three years, though our usage has gone down or stayed the same. The price of natural gas just continues to increase along with the decreasing value of the American dollar. Cutting costs, we closed off our son's bedroom, making it a cold room without heat. Since it is a corner room, it should not affect the heating in the neighboring rooms. Skyler then moved his sleeping headquarters into the main part of the house. The bathroom is another corner room, so we turned off the heat in there as well. My DH is currently working on a solar solution to help with the costs. Though the winters in Germany are generally cloudy and gray, there are those days when solar could allow us to turn the heat off for the day. Paul found a solar idea in the Internet using black aluminum mesh screening and he tried it out in our bathroom. Thankfully, February is one of the sunniest months of the year here and we had several days in a row that we could test the idea. It worked! Though the temps outside were between 40-50° during the day, we were able to heat our bathroom ( a corner room with 3 outside walls) to 70° without turning on the radiator. Yippee! So, Paul set out to find cheaper aluminum mesh. Sure enough, God provided us with an American company who donated the screen and had it shipped to us via UPS. It has arrived and we are looking forward to a warm cozy spring, as God provides the sunlight.

We have also working to cut back on the electric bill which has also skyrocketed in the past several years. We are eating more fresh meals and avoiding the use of the oven as much as possible. Strategicly placed candles work great for navigating a dark house in the evenings. Thankfully, we have lots of windows to provide light during the day. We moved our dining table next to the window so that we wouldn't be tempted to turn the overhead lights on during mealtime. God continues to show us ways that we can adjust to cut costs and be wiser stewards of His funding.

Please pray for us for wisdom. Pray for the economies of our lands. Pray for God's provision for our family and our ministry. Pray for our health, that we wouldn't need to spend money on Dr. bills. Pray for our church that it would grow and multiply.

We will pray for you, that the Lord will bless you ministries and your finances. We pray for your health and well being. We pray for your spiritual growth. We have a prayer box for our loved ones. If we don't already have your picture and you would like us to pray for you, please send us your picture and prayer requests. We would love to add you to our prayer card box.

Thank you for teaming up with us!

Chelli Sudbrock

Wittenberg, Germany

Maya

Maya was just a shy 12 year old girl when we first met her 10 years ago. The Lord moved us into an old East German building that needed a whole lot of repair and Maya lived upstairs with her parents and three younger brothers. She was quick to befriend us and start spoiling our firstborn who was an infant at the time. Over time she became a trusted babysitter and best friend to my little ones. When it came time to hold our first Bible study in our living room in Wittenberg, Maya was our first and only attendee. Every week she faithfully came downstairs for midweek Bible study. Soon she began bringing friends and the midweek study group turned into a youth group. When we moved across town, Maya and her friends started bringing their younger siblings to a backyard Bible club. It didn't take long for her to start taking over the lesson time and teaching the children herself. Then in the spring of 2001, she made a profession of faith and Satan quickly moved in to snatch her away. For years now, we have tried to keep in contact with Maya and encourage her in the Lord, always reminding her that the Lord loves her and will always be there for her. What a blessing it was to see her at a church BBQ in August. But it has been an even greater blessing this month to have her welcome us back to Germany from our furlough by being in both the Sunday and midweek services. This shy little girl has turned into a beautiful young mother and we are praising the Lord that He has brought her back to us. Please pray with us that she will raise her precious little girl in the love of the Lord and that they will both grow in faith.

Success!

We made it! We survived 141 days of living out of the car and cooler. We visited 10 states and 30 different churches. Now we have made it back home to Wittenberg, Germany. We took a week and rested and tried to get realigned with the sun on this side of the planet.

Samantha has started back to school and is enjoying the third grade in the German public school. Yesterday on the way to school, she said, "Mom, thank you for bringing me home. It is so exciting here!" The kids really are more at home here than anywhere else in the world.

When we left, the closets were full of summer dresses and short sleeved shirts. Though February in Germany is nothing compared to the blizzards in Iowa, it is still sweater weather, so we have spent a few days cleaning out closets and finding all the winter apparel that was needed. The kids have grown so much while we were traveling, especially Serenity.

Our church people welcomed us home with an 8 foot square banner and a song that they had written in our honor. What a tremendous blessing they were. After church, we enjoyed lunch from the grill and an afternoon of fellowship. We are excited to be back with them. Please pray for us as we seek God's will considering the future of our building.

We are eager to get things rolling again. The Iowa Pastor's Fellowship was generous enough to commit the money needed to fund the printing of full-colored introductory fliers for the church. Now, with a little more funding, we would like to put together welcome packets and get geared up to see a lot of visitors come through our doors this spring.

A generous supporter in MO donated a set of children's handbells to our ministry. I was able to introduce these to the kids on Sunday and they are all so excited. We will be planning our initial presentation for Palm Sunday. Please pray with us that God will give us wisdom in using this tool to reach the children in our neighborhood and their families.

The two youngest children, Serenity and Sadie, have lost some of their German, so we have enrolled them in preschool and kindergarten respectively starting the 3rd of March. Please pray with us that God will allow us to be a witness in the schools and that He would provide good Christian friends for our children. As you can imagine, being the only one in the whole school who believes in God, can be quite a strain on anyone, and especially on a child.

We appreciate you all so much. Now that we are sitting still again and have reliable Internet access, you should be hearing from me on a regular basis again. I hope to write to you again soon.

Blessings!

Chelli

Trend Tradition or Truth?

A consistant attitude of submition to God's Truth will keep us from the uncertain waves of Trend and the death sholes of Tradition.

John4:19 The woman saith unto him, Sir, I perceive that thou art a prophet.

• Trend 20 Our fathers worshipped in this mountain;

• Tradition and ye say, that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.

• No Trend 21 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh, when ye shall neither in this mountain,

• No Tradition nor yet at Jerusalem, worship the Father.

• Only Truth and Spirit. 22 Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews. 23 But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. 24 God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth. 25 The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh, which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all things. 26 Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto thee am he.

• Truth and Spirit is where we meet God. Joh 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

The question is not weather so and so is doing it or that it is a known path. The only test is, is it biblical and is God leading me? Jesus said that true worshipers worship in spirit and in truth. Trend and tradition are both worldly and are based on opinion. Take care not to confuse them with Spirit or Truth. Let us choose the balance of God's Truth so as to avoid the extremes of Trend and Tradition.

End of 2007

Church news

The church in Wittenberg, Germany is doing well in our absence. People have stepped up to the challenge and filled in gaps while we are gone. Naturally and thankfully they are looking forward to our return. Please pray that these precious people who filled in will see their place in ministry and continue standing in the gap. This will free us up for other outreach opportunities.

Caught fruit

Tuesday evening the 18th of Dec., we received a call from Jamie C. She and her 4 year old daughter were taken out of a domestic abuse situation. The police had referred her to churches for help. She was calling from a motel room graciously provided by another non-profit organization. She and her daughter hadn’t eaten since breakfast. After calling the police to verify, which is our home church’s policy, Chelli quickly prepared a food basket, the kids gathered toys and we went off through the snow to the motel. In no time Chelli took Jamie’s attention from her physical need to her spiritual needs and immediately the tears began to flow. She was on the bottom looking for help. Eagerly, this Native American young lady reached out to the Lord for salvation. What a blessing. What a change from what we are used to experiencing. It takes so long to see a German receive Christ. It was a wonderful Christmas present for our whole family.

Family

It has been wonderful to spend the last month with my family. Catching up and getting to know new relatives. It is so strange to realize that my older brother is a grandfather.

My mother had a knee replacement surgery. She put us all through a scare by not wanting to wake back up after surgery. After a 10-day-stay in the hospital she is home and recovering well.

Dad is still cancer free and holding. Please pray for his further recovery.

New support

We have had 1 new church join us in our ministry to Germany and four others promise future support. We have also received an encouraging increase of support from some of our partnering churches. What a great encouragement!

Needs

We still need to see our support increased. As one missions agency explained the situation. “If you can imagine having an income of three thousand become an income of two thousand.” This explains the situation for European Missionaries.

Please continue to pray for our ministry. Without prayer it is impossible to see the victory. If you have web access, please sign up for email updates so that you can pray for current needs.

Laboring for Christ,

Paul and Chelli Sudbrock

Furlough

During the past two weeks, we have driven through or past Warsaw, Peru, Kokomo, London, Miami, Mexico, Chili, Denver, Rochester, Palestine, Columbia City, Roanoke, Bremen, Plymouth, Morocco, Monticello, Frankfort, Lebanon, Moscow, Geneva, Alpine, Philadelphia, Brazil, and Poland while only putting 3240 miles on the car and never stepping foot on a plane. Can you guess where we have been? If you guessed, Indiana, USA, you are absolutely correct. We have had the privilege of ministering in some wonderful churches and visiting with old friends and new. God has blessed us and used us in ways that we will surely never fully comprehend.

Our spiritual and emotional batteries are being recharged as we gather ideas and materials for ministering in Wittenberg, Germany when we return in February.

The church in Wittenberg has been doing well in our absence. They have been taking good care of their guest preachers and have even enjoyed the privilege of greeting a few visitors. They remind us regularly though that our furlough can not be over soon enough. They long for us to return as soon as possible. We have booked a flight back to Germany on February 7th.

Between now and our return date, we are praying that the Lord will increase our financial and prayer support. With the ever-strengthening Euro and the ever-weakening American dollar, the cost of living continues to increase. Even during our absence, our apartment rent in Germany continues to increase each month.

• Vivian is attending Bible College in Springfield, MO, and is doing well. Please continue to pray.

• My father is recovering well from surgery. He expresses his thanks for your prayers.

• Olli has begun playing the guitar for our German church services.

• We have finally received our permanent resident permits to remain in Germany.

• Please pray for God's protection as we travel on furlough. We will be in Ohio, Iowa, Missouri, and Louisiana in the coming months.

• Please pray for the needed new support and funds for continued effective ministry in Wittenberg, Germany

Please continue to pray for our ministry. Without prayer it is impossible to see the victory.

Laboring for Christ,

Paul and Chelli Sudbrock

Aptitude is nothing without a good Attitude.

Aptitude without a good Attitude creates Intelligence without Character.

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The difference between a Hero and a Fiend is Character.

Furlough

Our 2007 ministry video is ready for viewing.

Please pray that our calender will fill up with new churches or churches that are in a position to increase our support.

Evangelistic outreach report

Our evangelistic outreach touched the lives of 131 souls. The story of Ruth was beautifully portrayed. The truth of God's redemptive work through Christ was clearly declared. Today there was a wonderful write-up in the local newspaper. The writer even captured the message of salvation in the article. It was a page size gospel track. The Baptisten Bibel Gemeinde is no longer obscure. New doors are open.

We have worked for years to be seen so that our message of Christ could be heard. Wittenberg now knows of our existence and all who read the article have heard the Gospel. Please pray that God's spirit will work in the lives of the lost.

Our church and its message were represented through...

Out of pocket cost: -1,438.22 € = $1984.74

Please pray for of little church as we are going on a 4 month furlough to raise more support due to the weak dollar.

A Strong Man recieves strength by admitting his weakness

A strong man has no inhibition in admitting his weakness. He understands that his admition is a cry for help that God will answer. Whereas the weak man constantly endeavors to maintain a false image of strength.

Dollar Falls

Dollar Falls to 15-Year Low Against Euro

The U.S. dollar dropped to a 15-year low against the euro today amid speculation that continuing signs of slowing U.S. economic growth will prompt the Federal Reserve to lower interest rates on Sept. 18, “reducing the appeal of assets denominated in the U.S. currency,” observed Bloomberg.

The latest fall caps what may be the dollar’s longest losing streak since October 2004, the news source offered.“We’re still in a weak dollar environment. Concerns about the U.S. economy have intensified, and that’s played negatively for the dollar,” a currency strategy expert in London told Bloomberg.

from MoneyNews.com

Please pray for us as we minister here in Wittenberg, Germany.

Paul and Chelli Sudbrock

Evangelistic Outreach

Summer and all of its activities are coming to an end here in Wittenberg, Germany and fall is desperately beating on our door. As we say good bye to summer, we push forward to the last of our summer outreach projects. This Saturday night, we have rented the local theater and will be presenting a dramatic rendition of the Biblical story of Ruth. This is an evangelistic outreach and we are praying for a full house. As of this writing, we know of 100 people who will be in attendance. We are praying for 400. Please pray with us.

The roaring lion is on the prowl and knows that this outreach could impact our area with great victories for the Kingdom of God. He has set up opposition in the form of a "Gay Cabaret" called "The First Ladies" which will be doing an aids benefit concert on Saturday night as well. Wherever we advertise, they come behind us and take our posters down and put their own in its place. Please pray for us as we kick our advertising campaign up a gear and try to fill those last seats before 7:30 on Saturday night.

Thank you for your faithful prayers for the souls of Wittenberg!

Chelli

New Picture

God has allowed us to save on our Pictures. A dear friend spent the time digitaly editing three versions of this pose into a perfectly lit photo. His work and an internet printer saved us sooo much money. God is Great!

Click here to download a printable version.

Ya can't go back! Make it count!

Life and a Hearse have no reverse. "Life comes at you fast." Nationwide

Corinth Continued

Thanks so much for remembering us so faithfully. As I was preaching this Sunday, it was as though I was pulling Christians out of Satan's clutches and they were complaining about my efforts. I preached Romans 1. You can imagine how that came across to some of our rebellious believers. Ironically, the three unsaved visitors were excited about hearing for the first time how relevant the Bible is today. Our faithful were fed.

I arrived at the church at 9:30 and our last counseling session ended at 12:30 am Monday morning. God opened many doors, and our day was fuller than I have ever experienced. I officially preached twice. In reality, the whole day was a sermon. At times I dealt with men with chemical dependence, self control of members and defeating the lies of this present "reality". At other times Chelli and I dealt with women about dress, men, adultery, marriage, and abortion. It was a nitty-gritty filled-with-tears trench battle. It still rages in some quarters, but God is winning.

Vivian, is somewhere over the Atlantic on here way to Bible College. Please pray for her! She needs God's hedge. She also needs $5,000 to repay an anonymous interest-free loan. A faithful Christian loaned her the needed funds.

Greetings from the front at Corinth (Wittenberg Germany)

Oh how I would write a letter of glowing report. A report filled with flowers and no thorns, but that would not be truthful.

As battle wages our Supreme Commander (God) has from His vantage point declared victory, but there are many casualties due to fear in the ranks. This "angst" is not found on the front, but in the camp. The people hear the rumbling and drumming of the enemy and fear captivates and paralyzes their hearts. Still others have, due to fear of pain of the cleansing process, allowed their wounds to fester until amputation of limbs appears to be the only option. There are some serious operations scheduled. Please pray for healing.

After this Sunday's offensive, three captives of the enemy cheered our assault. One even expressed interest in an escape effort. He wants to be set free, but has some trepidation. You see he has been a captive for years bound by alcoholism. He has experienced so many unsupplied attempts by well-meaning other captives. He wants to know if our forces are strong enough before he commits. We have agreed to meet and lay out the escape plan (God's Word). We will then reveal our secret and all powerful weapon (the cleansing power of Jesus Blood). Please pray for K that he will have the courage to jump into the rescue net (Jesus open arms) when it is raised.

Please also pray for our little troop as my recall to the base for debriefing is scheduled and cannot be postponed. We have already delayed our recall for debriefing for a year. I have field promoted one man to oversee operations. I have also called in temporary commanders (other pastors via DVD) from other fronts (other Churches). I have personally planned and set aside operational materials for 5 assaults (pre-taped video messages).

While at the base I must attempt to change public opinion for the cause. I hear rumors that folks back home have lost sight of the goals of our conflict. Some have become lost in the extravagances that the war effort has won them. They enjoy the freedoms so much so that they have forgotten that the once where also captives of the enemy. Still others are so trapped by personal debt that they have made themselves incapable to help the war effort. Others are simply apathetic.

Our resources are being limited due to the dangers of transport (exchange rate - weak dollar/strong Euro) Still other resources are drained due to the ever rising obstacle of cost of maintaining our limited footprint.

Praise our Supreme Commander for those who in spite of personal issues and conflicts have never for a moment lost sight of our goal. They are true heroes. Many have sold, scrimped, saved, and yes - suffered lost to give to the cause. Our Supreme Commander of our forces has seen their sacrifice and their needs will be filled immediately. They will also receive repayment in HIS words "pressed down and shaken together, and running over". We cannot express our gratitude to the Supreme commander for the great Support system that he has put together for our conquest of the enemy.

Thanks to all those who follow his command!

The Sudbrocks

Reason to Celebrate

Thank you all for your prayers on our behalf. I got up this morning and double checked to make sure I had everything in order before heading out to the foreign affairs office. Vivian helped us translate the last necessary letter yesterday and I put it in the folder. It is a good thing that Paul helped me double check everything because I had packed all of our paperwork and my own passport, but had forgotten to pack those for the rest of the family. With all 6 passports in hand, I packed the file on my bike, we prayed together and off I rode to the downtown office. Though they hadn't sent me a letter telling me I could come in, the lady in the office was expecting me. As I approached the counter, she said, "Ah, there you are, " and turned to take a large file off of the shelf behind her. I handed her our passports and the visa extension slips that we had as well as the letter Vivian translated. She looked everything over and said it looked great. She told me that we would be receiving our permanent visa permits and that it would cost a little more than the usual extensions that we have paid for in the past. She still didn't tell me how much. Then she typed and figured a little on the computer printed out a receipt and handed it to me, 460 € ( $636 ). I swallowed twice and smiled and thanked her. After a quick trip to the cashier, I returned to the office where she had our visa stickers in our passports and ready to go. Paul and I received permanent residence visas with work permits and the kids each received visas good until they are 16 when they can reapply for their own resident visas. Yippee! After 12 years of waiting and praying, we finally have our paperwork. Thank you for you prayers and thank the Lord for his mighty works! We have reason to celebrate. I think we will have a picnic dinner outside and sing extra loud at Bible study tonight.

Chelli

Prayer for Visa Permits

Tomorrow is the big day! Tomorrow morning I go to the Foreign Affairs office to learn whether we will be granted a new visa permit to remain in Germany. When they gave us the extension in May, they said they would send us a letter when the permits were ready to be picked up. Well, our extension expires tomorrow and they haven't sent us a letter, so I will go in in the morning and see what we need to do next. Please pray that we will find favor in their eyes and that we will finally receive a permanent residents permit for Germany.

Thank you,

Chelli

Summer drought

As we head into the heat of summer, we find our fledgling church in a spiritual drought MH has struggled with alcohol for years but started out 2007 very well. Things seemed to be going so well. Since the beginning of the year he has been growing in the Lord and in joy. But alas, Satan was not going to give up all that easy. Two weeks ago Satan attacked with more than M was able to handle and rather than turning to the Lord, he returned to his alcohol addiction and tried to take his own life. Since that evening, he has been in a recovery clinic. Please pray for healing for him and wisdom for us.

A young couple in our church has been struggling wtih their marriage, but were too ashamed to ask for help. We were all shocked this week when things fell apart and this precious couple separated. Please pray for their darling little daughter AM ( 2 yrs ) and pray that her parents will resolve their difference. We are praying for healing and restoration for A and A. We are also praying for wisdom as we offer counsel and guidance.

These two major crisis have affected everyone in the church to some degree. Our hope is that these trials will draw the church family in Wittenberg closer together rather than dividing and scattering as Satan would have it.

We are praying for showers of blessing and spiritual growth within this young flock in Wittenberg. We covet your prayers on our behalf.

Ecumenicals

Fiery darts of hatred arise in the hearts of "loving Ecumenicals" at the sound of biblical doctrine.

Paul Sudbrock

Pappas Test Results

Pappa wrote this morning:

"Hey There Everyone:

The PSA test I took at O8:00 this morning turned out to be '0' the very number that the Doctor was wanting and so was I and I believe it was because of your prayers and I thank you for all of them. I am getting better and the bladder control is coming slowly and the doctor said that, that was the way it would happen so please continue to pray that I can get bladder control soon as I can.

We are all rejoicing in the goodness of the Lord. This test means that other treatment at this time will not be persuded. Although cancer is still present at this time treatment will not proceed.

Thanks to ALL

Al Sudbrock"

Glimpses of the Victory in the Midst of the Battle

It can seem at times that we are surrounded by the battle. Often there is the feeling that all will be lost if this present battle is not won. Surrounded by impossible mountains of problems and discouragements, a soul can be driven to the point of despair.

The truth is, the victory is already won. We are victors in Christ. One glimpse of this victory reignites the weary soul with a fire that changes the world.

Isa 40:31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.

In the last few months we have faced so many problems and seemingly impossible circumstances, but God has given glimpses of the real victory that have served to inspire and renew us for the battle. Many of these battles are still in progress and cannot be reported upon at this present time. Please hold us up in prayer.

To spite these "unmovable Mountains", God has given us these wonderful glimpses of His victory:

• An anonymous donor loaned Vivian the remaining funds so that she can attend Bible College

• My fathers' successful prostate surgery

• Vivian received her student permit and purchased her plane ticket for America.

• Olli was baptized and is growing in the Lord.

• After 12 years of patience, we have seen progress toward our permanent resident permits.

• Our church is finally big enough to set up a state recognized corporate identity so that we can open a bank account. This will also allow us to give out donor receipts for tax purposes.

• Our evangelistic team is starting back up after a time of job related interruptions.

Present needs:

• The needed funds to pay Vivian's interest-free loan back as soon as possible

• Healing for my father, A.B. Sudbrock, and a cancer free status

• Vivian's flight and her continued submission to God's will.

• God's hedge about our people

• Success of our evangelistic team and our summer outreach project

• Our furlough preparations

• Needed new support and funds for continued effective ministry in Wittenberg, Germany

Please continue to pray for our ministry. Without prayer it is impossible to see the victory. Please sign up for email updates so that you can pray for current needs.

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Laboring for Christ,

Paul and Chelli Sudbrock

Olli's Baptism

Olli is a biker that has recieve Christ and God is making incedible changes in his life. He is witnesssing and excited about his relationship with God.

Pray for Dad Sudbrock

On the 3rd day of July my dad goes in to have his PSA test done. Please pray that the results will be Zero. As you can imagine, he really would rather avoid the radiation treatments.

Whoda thunk?

With all the crazy things that have been happening, I was feeling a bit under the rug. I prayed and asked God for a bit of encouragement. He did not fail to answer!

Olli, with his shirt off and hair to the middle of his back, ran to meet us as we drove up. Olli is a "biker". Not exactly, from human perspective (first look), the ideal candidate to represent the King of Kings. The first words out of his mouth were, "the next "Alki" (alcoholic) is on his way and he wants to talk to you!"

We first met Olli (Matthias) in January at one of our evangelistic outreaches. The second time he came, he prayed the sinners prayer. God has been doing an incredible work in his life. He is so excited. He is constantly discovering a new tract or Christian video to share with his friends. We started biblical discipleship Wednesday. Today, as we were getting back in the car, he said that he wanted to talk about baptism. God works in ways and places that we would never have thought.

Praise God for His wondrous works and His acts of encouragement,

Paul

Break down!

This is a month of break down. Our vacuum has been needing to be replaced for months. We investigated for just the right machine and found a quality vacuum We then purchased it through German ebay for half the retail price. Our iron was dropped by a babysitter and needed to be replaced. To top it off, our 10 year old dishwasher gave up the ghost. The repair cost is half of the price of a new machine. Does it make sense to repair such an old machine? I wonder. With the high price of water in Wittenberg, you actually save money with a machine over hand washing. Please pray for wisdom. On the good side, Skyler lovingly gave his mother a coupon for washing up 10 loads of dishes. Little did he know a month ago that the dishwasher would go out just in time for mom to redeem those coupons. "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose." (Romans 8.28)

*****Update - after typing the above posting, lightening struck our house! In spite of surge protectors, our computer was surged and damaged. Only time will tell to what degree the damage may be. At this point, I know that all the USB ports must be replaced. Heads up - keep your appliances at a safe distance from the Sudbrock family.

Cancer update A.B. Sudbrock

Thank you for praying for my fil AB Sudbrock. His spirits are up which a wonderful blessing. Here is an update that he wrote over the weekend:

Hey There: I want to give you an update on my surgery. I went into the hospital on the tenth of May at 05:00 and was in surgery at 07:15 the surgery was over at 11:20 and a lot was done. I spent the next 4 days in the hospital and it has been a rough time. I came home and the following Wednesday was back in the doctors office with blisters all over my stomach. They made 7 incisions in my lower abdomen and the skin around each of the bandages was blistered so I had 18 blisters on me and that made things more miserable. Plus I was carrying an catheter which I carried for 14 days. The day they removed it I was put back into the hospital with double pneumonia and was released on the 26th. I am still weak and haven't been in the pulpit on a Sunday sense the 6 of May.

I plan to return this Sunday but am still sore. There are still cancer cells present and radiation is on the horizon if my PSA is higher then '0'. The doctor said I will be a year in healing. There were many things removed including 16 lymph nodes which showed no cancer in them.

I have to return for blood work on the 28 of June and see the doctor on the 30 of June. I again see the surgeon on the 6 of July. I never knew that one thing could take you down so fast but I sure don't have much strength to do anything at all.

I haven't been able to set anywhere on any seat for more the a few minutes. I have lost some weight and still don't feel the best my morning are the best part of the day.

Thanks for the cards and calls and for those of you who visited a special thanks. Keep us in your prayers because this is just as hard on my wife as it has been on me.

Al Sudbrock

This week we were also told that the grandson of ABSudbrock, my nephew, Zachary Sudbrock (15 years ) has a growth of some kind pushing on his esophagus. They have run many tests and have narrowed it down to two possible causes: Lymphoma or Sarcoidosis. He will meet with a specialist today and they will schedule a lung biopsy to determine if cancer is present or if it is sarcoid nodules. Sarcoid runs in the family, so we are hopeful that this is the culprit. Please keep the family in prayer. All of this has been very difficult on everyone.

Thanks!

Chelli Sudbrock

Wittenberg, Germany

Surgery update

From the surgeon’s perspective, Dad’s operation was a success. He believes he got all the cancer. Please continue to pray as the results have not come back from the removed Lymph nods. Also pray for quick healing and for the family as they care for Dad.

Stressed?

The cure for Stress: Can time!

Do what you can while you can, so that when you can, you can have the time you need to get it all done.

Paul Sudbrock

Vivian Update

Good news! Vivian has been offered a job teaching beginner's guitar at BBC two hours a week starting in the fall. Though this will only amount to about $50 a week, it is a great start. We are so excited for her and the possibilities that are beginning to open up. Here is the letter that she received:

We are still excited about you attending BaptistBibleCollege this fall. I trust that you received the scholarship award letter sent earlier this year. I am writing you about another opportunity that could be beneficial for both you and the music department. We offer two beginning guitar classes for students who would like to learn to play. Our teacher accepted a position as pastor of a local church and can no longer teach for us.

I have spoken with the academic dean about you and we would like you to consider teaching the beginning guitar classes for us next year. The classes meet two hours a week and you would be paid $25.00 an hour for teaching them. One class is offered in the fall semester and the other class is offered in the spring semester.

This is a minimal teaching load and should not affect your ability to study and practice for your own class work. You will be working with one of the music professors who can help you with any needs.

Thank you for your prayers on Vivian's behalf. Please keep it up. We are eager to see what great plans God has set into motion.

Cancer Surgery

Please pray for my father as he undergoes his cancer surgery on Thursday, May 10th at the Methodist hospital In Des Moines, Iowa. This hospital is the only one in Des Moines that has the Robotic equipment that will be needed for the surgery. Please keep my mother, Dorthea as well as our sending church, Newton Baptist Temple in prayer during this time as well. Thank you so very much.

Paul

Visa permits

For 12 years now we have been praying for a permanent residence visa. This is not a work permit but rather just permission to stay in Germany and live here as long as we would like. Repeatedly we have been told that this is impossible, but year after year we have gone back and applied for it anyhow. Our current temporary permit expires on May 30th. I went in last week to start the process of applying for another extension for our family. There I was given a new list of requirements to fulfill and worked on completing everything before returning this afternoon. Right after lunch I gathered up the paperwork and pictures and double checked the list to be sure I had everything before the girls and I headed downtown. We turned in the paperwork to a different person than we picked the list up from and found that we need one more letter. That was a little exasperating, but then came the glimmer of hope that we have been waiting for. The lady said that they had been discussing our case in the office and that they think that a new law has made it possible for us to receive our permanent permits. She needs to check into it further, but she is hopeful that she can give us all permanent permits when we go back to the office in 8 weeks. She did warn that the cost of these permits would be quite a bit higher than the $50 per person that we are accustomed to paying each time. Please pray with us during the coming weeks that God's will will be done. For years we have prayed that God would either soften the hearts of these two ladies or remove them from their office. We are so thankful to be able to report that there has been an obvious softening of their attitudes towards us. We covet your prayers in regards to our visa permits. We are so very hopeful that this will be the last time that we have to complete this process.

Chelli

Vivi is employed!

Vivi has a job! Thank you to all of those who have been praying for Vivian and the finances for her schooling. She had tried to get a position somewhere in town using her English skills and had already applied at all the hotels and tourist shops, but still couldn't find anyone who was willing and able to hire her. Then, while walking downtown, she saw a sign which read: English Speaking Help Wanted. One of the local ice cream shops was looking advertising a position available. Come to find out, the young Italian woman running the shop is fluent in English and Italian, but has very limited German skills. She needed someone to work alongside of her translating and serving customers. On Wednesday Vivian went in and tried her hand at dipping ice cream and filling orders and then again on Thursday. All went well and she now has a job at the local ice cream parlor. Thank you for your prayers. We are praising the Lord that He has given her such a wonderful grasp of the English language and a job to boot. Please continue to pray for Vivian's college fund. We currently have just over $6,000 in there, leaving another $6,000 in order to meet our goal. We are halfway there! Keep praying!

The Coverup

The Accuser is desperate for dirt to cover his own tracks.




Paul Sudbrock

ACT complete

Saturday I spent the day with Vivian in Berlin. At 5:26 am our train pulled out of Wittenberg and lumbered towards the big city. After our train ride and a few buses, we arrived at the JFK International school in Berlin where Vivian was scheduled to take her ACT. Registration was at 7:45. While the test was administered, I enjoyed a beautiful time of devotion in the park as the sun peaked above the horizon and warmed my back. The little pointed-eared red squirrels which are usually quite shy were on the ground in abundance and making quite a clatter. Even a wood pecker joined in. It is amazing how quiet Berlin can be on a warm spring morning. At about 9 the shops began opening and I thoroughly enjoyed strolling along looking in the storefronts and taking in the sites. One vendor had thousands of cut tulips for sale 20 for 5€ in every color imaginable. I must have looked like a lost little country girl as I gauked at the big city life. It was great! I found a grocery store which had marshmallows and a little bag of Hot Tamalli candies to take home to the kids. Breakfast in the park and some time alone with God and my journal and before I knew it, it was noon already and Vivian was done. We are praying for the best when the results come in. The higher the test scores, the better her chances for getting another scholarship or two. Just a month ago, she took the English As a Second Language Exam at a University in Berlin and scored 118 points out of a possible 120. We were so proud of her. We found a SubWay and had lunch and bought a bottle of Mountain Dew to take home for the kids to share and then we headed back to Wittenberg. We enjoyed such a wonderful time of fellowship and exhortation that we agreed that we need to get away and spend the day together more often.

Thank you to all who are praying for Vivian as she prepares for Bible College.

Thank you so much to all you who are praying daily for our ministry here in Wittenberg. We had a new family of 5 visit our services this morning alongside our regular crowd. Please continue to pray for our new converts. Sometimes the claws of our past lives sink much deeper than we perceive.

We are looking forward to a wonderful spring week. I wish one for you as well.

Chelli

Truth v. Lies

The first step in discovering truth without is to identify the lies within.

Paul Sudbrock

New Pictures

Our new pictures arrived today. Not bad, I must say, but the price! These little 1.25 x 1.75 inch babies cost approx. $100. a piece. Ouch! But oh how precious. The price break down per unit is as follows:

1. Processing fee - $55.

2. Application fee - $30.

3. Security surcharge - $12.

4. Cheesy picture booth - $7.

The next step is to have some pricey and precious little stickers pasted in them, namely our visa permits. Please pray with us as we go in to apply for our visa renewals. We are praying that we will be granted permanant resident status this time around.

Testing Faith - Don't waver

I spent 3 hours tonight witnessing to O. I really didn't think he would come back to English after last week's discussion. He started off an Agnostic, then here shifted his position to a "God-denying Evolutionist" and at the end to a Creation Evolutionist. What a trip! At the end of the first evening, I was sure he just didn't want to believe.

When he showed up tonight, I was entirely surprised. Not long into the discussion, he was back at asking questions and dodging the answers. But this time his shifting between anti-biblical philosophies had increased in velocity.

After English, a visit to the ice cream Café, and a long walk I realized that it isn't that he doesn't want to believe as much as he is testing the stability of my faith to see if it is real. He wants to believe, but has never found the real thing. He has been testing the ice before committing. Please pray with me that God will use the Word to call him to faith.

Paul

Life - Abundantly

This last month is a good example of that promise. Christ did not say a perfect life, He said life more abundantly. We have been through valleys and on peaks.

The weak dollar continues to wreak havoc on our finances, but God continues to bless our ministry. We are returning on furlough this fall. Please pray that God will give us the right contacts in order to raise the needed support.

On top of the usual social obstacle course that goes along with attending a public school in a second culture, we have recently had some overly inquisitive teachers asking some rather personal questions about our family life. Within a culture where Christianity is an oddity, our traditions and family culture can appear very peculiar. We are praying that the curiosity will lead to Christ. Please pray with us for God’s hand of protection over our family and our children.

At the same time, we were working on plans for our fall furlough which required some cooperation from the school. We planned to delay Serenity’s start into the first grade here by a year while schooling her in English during furlough. At first, the school system challenged our plans. If this had gone wrong it could have impacted our ministry in ways that I don't want to think about. But God gave wisdom and solution through a face-to-face contact with the superintendent of the primary schools in Sachsen Anhalt. At this point, all appears to be ironed out.

My Father, A.B. Sudbrock, was diagnosed with prostate cancer, but through the prayers of many the cancer is limited to the prostrate and it is treatable.

During a Thursday night Bible study, we received the phone call that Chelli’s grandmother had passed away.

Later that evening as snow fell on our sleepy little town, I slid into the car of the one neighbor that I have never been able to befriend. Still waiting to see what God's plan will bring. The bill to repair his car is $ 421.

At our annual fellowship meeting, Serenity fell up stairs and cut herself at the point where the nose meets the upper lip. It took three stitches and several of papa’s nerves. You just feel so helpless. I was fine until the doctor mentioned the pain she was in with the nerve that runs through that area. It was too much. I felt that sick weakness come over me. Keith Gandy had taken the time to show me the way to the hospital. The doctor then mentioned that I should lie down. Keith said I looked like a banana.

As soon as I felt the wooziness subside we moved Serenity into the hall to wait for the medicine to take effect. Soon Serenity was completely happy reaching out to touch objects hanging in the air that only she could see. She began to laugh and state that her nose didn’t hurt any more, but tickled.

The doctor said the medication would block all memory of the event from the time she took it until it wore off. She doesn’t remember the pain of the needle injecting the local anesthetic or papa’s tears at her crying. She has her first three stitches and a war story to boot.

By the way, we made it back to the church in plenty of time and God gave us an effective fellowship meeting.

Now for the mountain top, we had 12 visitors on Easter Sunday at our church Wit