The Keatings praise God there is much to be thankful for in the life and ministry of Passage Baptist Church. Valarie taught the first of a new study the women are doing in Ephesians. The men just started working through Ed Welch's book Caring for One Another: 8 Ways to Cultivate Meaningful Relationships. The men's group has matured to appreciate deeper friendship and fellowship. This is no small thing among Irish men! Steve has already preached several times this year and is also privileged to help other men grow in their preaching through a monthly training group. The Lord is raising up qualified men to proclaim God's Word and encourage God's people.
The Keating's son, Shane, moved to Florida earlier this year. This has been a big change, but he is doing well! He found a job quickly, and he is enjoying the community he has with his cousins and a new church family.
The LeBon family moved to Fosston a little over three years ago so that Jarred could take on the role of Lead Pastor at New Journey Church. In January 2024, they began a weekly Discipleship Group in their home. Since then, they have multiplied and now have three different Discipleship Groups meeting in different homes each week. Praise the Lord for a growing hunger to fellowship around God's Word during the week!
Two months ago, the church family unanimously voted to adopt a new mission, vision, and priorities. The newly adopted mission, vision, and priorities were a product of almost two years of study among the elders. Once unified, the elders made an initial presentation to the church members and then began teaching through it all in a sermon series. This led to a lot of teaching and discussions related to the importance of church membership and believer's baptism. Over half of those attending the church were former Lutherans who refused to be baptized and become members. Some could be quite hostile to any conversation about the topic. The sermon series on the local church led to a lot of bitterness among those non-members. Many left in unhealthy ways, including slander and lies about Jarred and the church.
Immanuel Youth seeks to make adult disciples of Christ, raising up youth for lifelong faithfulness beyond youth. Partnering with parents and our entire Immanuel family, Immanuel Youth aims to root students in the Word of Christ and the local church in such a manner that produces long-lasting disciples beyond high school graduation.
Location:
Iraq
Population:
3,288,000
Ev. Christian:
< 1%
Main Language:
Kurdish
Spiritual Beliefs:
99.9% Islam
Bible in Heart Language:
Yes
The Kurmanji Kurd of Iraq live primarily along the northeastern border of Iraq, touching Iran. Almost all are Muslims, but there is a growing presence of Christianity in their midst.