Wedding Bells Coming!

September 1, 2002

Late Breaking News » Our daughter Joy is engaged to Stephen Barton (not to be confused with our son Stephen Barton) from England! He’s a neat brother who is training for the ministry. We visited Stephen on our trip to Tim’s mission base last winter and he visited us this summer. He and Joy were able to spend time together this summer while she served in England with YWAM. A June 7th wedding is planned in Gunnison and then off to England for Stephen to finish Bible College. Please pray for them!

I’m back in camp! As I write this, Melva and I are speaking at a family camp near Paonia, CO. Camp Id-Ra-Ha-Je West (I’d Rather Have Jesus) is a wonderful Christian camp nestled in the mountains. This Labor Day weekend we have 60 or so folks learning how to discover, develop and use their spiritual gifts. What a joy and freedom we have when we realize that God has given each Christian a specific gift to use for the good of all the church (I Corinthians 12:7,11). It’s one of the best ways I know to prevent burnout and frustration, and to be fruitful in your Christian life.

Fire and ministry continues » I’ve spent approximately five weeks on ministry trips this summer (with Melva joining me on several), and the rest of the summer on fires. The blessing is that I’ve been able to share Jesus with many, pass out firefighter New Testaments and hold chapels. In addition, it has allowed me to earn extra income to help Steve (Indiana Wesleyan) and Tim (BIOLA) attend Christian colleges this fall. I was able to take time off from the fires and drive home to be with the boys before they left.

Last week, we had a very exciting time as the fire blew up and made a big run toward a resort we were trying to save. As the fire boiled toward us, I had complete peace. I believe it’s because of your prayers for us. A few days later, several fire fighters asked me for New Testaments and allowed me to share Jesus. Every day, I go on the fire line knowing that many of you are praying for Melva and I and our family. Thank You Sooooooo much.

Coming up » Melva and I hope to take a two-week trip through CO, OK, AR, MO and TX in mid-October. This would be an opportunity to spend time with supporters, hold a Board of Directors meeting, and possibly a mini-vacation. If we come your way, we’d love to see you and share what God’s been doing. Please call us for more details. (970-641-3583)

College Ministry » Our Fellowship of Christian Athletes group held its first meeting and almost 50 athletes and others attended. Thank you for your prayers and extra support which helps us underwrite this vital outreach.

Please pray » that our church may find God’s place to meet soon. We have over 150 folks and no permanent location. I’m praying for a place near the college.

We thank God for you each day! Thank you for your prayers and support. Check out our new website at http://www.rickbartonministries.org.