Well, today is Monday, and we're already underway with a FULL day of classes, Q&A and one on one help sessions. We've had to rearrange our teaching schedule, because of government holidays, which were unexpected. It's a long story, but this is a holiday for the Middle East. The problem is, people can expect to get as much as 5 days of holiday, depending on the government's announcement. Many people registered for the entire conference, expecting that the government would grant Sunday and Monday as holidays. Friday and Saturday are the normal weekend, when people don't work (like the American Saturday and Sunday). Well, on Thursday night, the government announced that Friday and Saturday are the only two days they will have this year. That means that many of our registrants need to return to work on Sunday or Monday. Today being Monday, we've lost a lot of friends. They've all headed home.
We're teaching for about 6 hours a day, but the people are like sponges. They want to know EVERYTHING! The beauty is that God is hard at work in the Middle East. His church IS alive and well. Evangelism is tough, but the believers here are committed, and they're sharing Christ everywhere they go. It costs these people a lot to believe, and especially to come here to the conference. Praise the Lord, they're not giving up.
So, despite the lack of sleep and the long days, it's invigorating to help these people develop their talents and ministries! We keep carrying on - ecause He keeps carrying them!
Well, gotta go - time for worship - - with our Arabic brothers ad sisters. Cool!!!
Monday, October 15, 2007
Friday, October 12, 2007
Friday is the new Sunday...
Today is Friday, and Friday is Sunday in Dubai (they hold all their church services on Fridays). And if that doesn’t confuse you, the church we attended today is multi-cultural. Over 172 nations are represented in JUST THIS ONE CHURCH! We attended the English service, which followed the Chinese service, and preceded the Arabic and Philippine services held simultaneously - in separate sanctuaries! The Indian service was at the same time as the English service, except it was in a different building. We visited the Indian service, which was considerably longer than the English service, because they break up into Sunday School classes. They have 700 kids in Sunday School... and no classrooms! They all just break off into little groups right there in the sanctuary. The teens meet in a different room... the garage!
And you think YOU’RE cramped for space?!
The staff for this conference is a wonderful group of highly talented people with loving, creative hearts for the Lord and for kids. It’d be easy to think one is as great as these by the look of the pictures on the flyers and brochures and posters. One could easily lose one’s head in the clouds. OR - - one could just be amazed at being part of this whole miracle!
There are 280 people expected tonight. They represent a myriad of countries, the majority being from India, which is the largest population group in Dubai. There are 78 Catholics registered, along with a heavy showing of Orthodox, Anglican and a few Evangelicals sprinkled in there. It’s going to be interesting to see how many want to learn ventriloquism!
I’m still not sure what we ate for supper last night, but we had it again tonight - from a different deli! They don’t tell you anything about these foods - but you just wrap it in a flat bread, spread on a little hummus, ad a can of Coke, and you’re good to go!
On September 11, 2001, I watched the Twin Towers burn from my office window in Newark, NJ. I remember a helpless feeling afterward. I saw all these people who’d lost lives, loved ones and jobs. I’d seen entire companies vanish in a day. What could I do? How helpless am I?! These people are dealing with excruciating pain and suffering - and here I sit... I do puppets. Doesn’t seem very helpful - certainly not powerful. But God does amazing things. He works in mysterious ways.
On October 11, 2007 I begin to teach children’s workers in the Middle East - the land that has been blamed as the bane of my country - to reach children with puppets. NOW we’re talking power! Reaching kids? Connecting kids to God? Saving kids? Kids? KIDS? KIDS!!!?? YES! Kids - you know the ones who will be tomorrow’s leaders. What do you say we reach out to them now. Let’s not wait until they’re grown and set in their ways. Let’s win them now, and some day, some child - who was reached by a ventriloquist who took a class one day in a Christian church in Dubai - will grow up to be president of his/her land. A leader among nations. That’s the power of kids. That’s why we do what we do.
Thanks for checking in. I’ll have more for you tomorrow.
Doug
And you think YOU’RE cramped for space?!
The staff for this conference is a wonderful group of highly talented people with loving, creative hearts for the Lord and for kids. It’d be easy to think one is as great as these by the look of the pictures on the flyers and brochures and posters. One could easily lose one’s head in the clouds. OR - - one could just be amazed at being part of this whole miracle!
There are 280 people expected tonight. They represent a myriad of countries, the majority being from India, which is the largest population group in Dubai. There are 78 Catholics registered, along with a heavy showing of Orthodox, Anglican and a few Evangelicals sprinkled in there. It’s going to be interesting to see how many want to learn ventriloquism!
I’m still not sure what we ate for supper last night, but we had it again tonight - from a different deli! They don’t tell you anything about these foods - but you just wrap it in a flat bread, spread on a little hummus, ad a can of Coke, and you’re good to go!
On September 11, 2001, I watched the Twin Towers burn from my office window in Newark, NJ. I remember a helpless feeling afterward. I saw all these people who’d lost lives, loved ones and jobs. I’d seen entire companies vanish in a day. What could I do? How helpless am I?! These people are dealing with excruciating pain and suffering - and here I sit... I do puppets. Doesn’t seem very helpful - certainly not powerful. But God does amazing things. He works in mysterious ways.
On October 11, 2007 I begin to teach children’s workers in the Middle East - the land that has been blamed as the bane of my country - to reach children with puppets. NOW we’re talking power! Reaching kids? Connecting kids to God? Saving kids? Kids? KIDS? KIDS!!!?? YES! Kids - you know the ones who will be tomorrow’s leaders. What do you say we reach out to them now. Let’s not wait until they’re grown and set in their ways. Let’s win them now, and some day, some child - who was reached by a ventriloquist who took a class one day in a Christian church in Dubai - will grow up to be president of his/her land. A leader among nations. That’s the power of kids. That’s why we do what we do.
Thanks for checking in. I’ll have more for you tomorrow.
Doug
Thursday, October 11, 2007
Camels, Toyotas and Friends
(This is a LOOOOOONG one - so hang in there!)
Well, here we are - my first full day in Dubai is over - and I’ve only been awake for 12 hours!
Today was “sightseeing day”, and Raja, our host, made arrangements for us. Oh boy..... There were two women from Grain DeBle - the sponsoring organization (Catherine, the International Director, and Evelyn, her sister), Dale VonSeggen and myself.
The driver picked us up at the hotel and took us out to a little place in the middle of who-knows-where. He told us 20 minutes, and then back in the car. OK, I’m thinking, this’ll be fun - but I wonder where he’s taking us next? Well, not to rush things.
At this little stop, there were a few camels in pens, one harnessed for riding and ATV’s for riding on the dunes. Catherine chose to ride the buggies. She was the ONLY one to do so - and we have video to prove it! Dale & I both opted to ride the camels. My hat goes off to the wise men, shepherds, Mary, Joseph and anyone else in the Nativity who rode those things! Anyway, among the many people who can say they gave Dale VonSeggen a camel for his collection, few can say they’ve actually ridden one with him!
Well, our 20 minutes was up soon, and we piled back into the car, only to find out - THIS was our “Buggy” for the REAL sand dunes ride! For the next hour or so, we rode up and down the hills, sliding, gunning the engine, bouncing around, side to side, sometimes absolutely convinced we were going to roll, other times, absolutely convinced we’d left our stomachs on the last dune! It was just enough dare-devil and just enough let’s-have-a-blast to be an absolutely one-of-a-kind experience none of us can have anywhere else. Thank you, Raja! Great idea!
We stopped atop a high dune, and the view was breath-taking. I got some beautiful videos of the sand dunes at sunset. What a beautiful world we live in! It was truly amazing to stand atop this dune, feet slipping in the sand, and admire a sight that nothing else can duplicate. Have you ever looked at something and thought, “This is the only place in the world where this view is possible - and it’s RIGHT HERE!”? It was one of those moments.
We piled back in the car for the ride back to “camp”, and found that the fun had only warmed up! Majid, our driver was just getting started! The hills were hillier, and the dunes, dunier, and the slips- slippery-er... or something. That’s when we realized just how much our stomachs could handle. This would give any roller coaster competition... except it’s a 22 year old driving!
We stopped at a souvenir stand, and we all bought bottles of water - - it seems our mouths were dry! Oh, and at this point we emptied our shoes, returning a dune or two to the desert!
Thankful that the worst was over, Majid started us “homeward, and wouldn’t you know it - - off the road again! As it turns out, dinner is part of the package - and that means dinner in, well, the desert! A few small dunes away lay a true Arabian buffet. We arrived at the “compound” to find souvenir stands, photographers, who will gladly sell you your own picture, and the Middle Eastern version of appetizers. Dale & I had a cup of coffee - Arabian style, and proceeded to the tent where they had Arabian garb for you to have your photograph taken. That photo lies securely in my PERSONAL collection! lol!
The buffet was quite nice - a full selection of Middle Eastern cuisine. Every kind of salad and vegetable dish - most of which I can’t pronounce, never mind spell! There was a large selection of meats - lamb, chicken, beef, and others I did not ask, nor was I told. They all came on skewers! Normally, I’m a burger and fries kind of guy. Mickey D and I are on a first name basis. But I have to admit that this food was quite tasty, and delicious - - to say nothing of sandy! But then again, what’s a buffet in the desert without a sprinkling of sand?!
Oh yes - to drink - - what else? Coca Cola! NOW we’re talking cuisine!
The whole experience gave us a wonderful opportunity to hear the work of Grain DeBle. As it turns out, Catherine’s father had founded the work, and Evelyn’s husband took it over upon his passing. Today, Catherine is the International Director. It was fascinating to learn of the work they do. I’d tell you more, but this blog is already WAY over time!
Well, Majig finally took us back to our hotel, and we crashed for the evening. For me, the conference has begun. I’m learning much about God’s hand at work - and we’ve yet got MUCH to go. Remind me later to tell you about Raja and the people who’re coming to the conference... now THAT”s another story!
Well, it’s time to go. Camel riding in the desert... sand dune riding in the same desert... Middle Eastern buffet in the .... oh well, it was quite a day in the desert. Have you ever thanked God for the desert? I did. Today.
Well, here we are - my first full day in Dubai is over - and I’ve only been awake for 12 hours!
Today was “sightseeing day”, and Raja, our host, made arrangements for us. Oh boy..... There were two women from Grain DeBle - the sponsoring organization (Catherine, the International Director, and Evelyn, her sister), Dale VonSeggen and myself.
The driver picked us up at the hotel and took us out to a little place in the middle of who-knows-where. He told us 20 minutes, and then back in the car. OK, I’m thinking, this’ll be fun - but I wonder where he’s taking us next? Well, not to rush things.
At this little stop, there were a few camels in pens, one harnessed for riding and ATV’s for riding on the dunes. Catherine chose to ride the buggies. She was the ONLY one to do so - and we have video to prove it! Dale & I both opted to ride the camels. My hat goes off to the wise men, shepherds, Mary, Joseph and anyone else in the Nativity who rode those things! Anyway, among the many people who can say they gave Dale VonSeggen a camel for his collection, few can say they’ve actually ridden one with him!
Well, our 20 minutes was up soon, and we piled back into the car, only to find out - THIS was our “Buggy” for the REAL sand dunes ride! For the next hour or so, we rode up and down the hills, sliding, gunning the engine, bouncing around, side to side, sometimes absolutely convinced we were going to roll, other times, absolutely convinced we’d left our stomachs on the last dune! It was just enough dare-devil and just enough let’s-have-a-blast to be an absolutely one-of-a-kind experience none of us can have anywhere else. Thank you, Raja! Great idea!
We stopped atop a high dune, and the view was breath-taking. I got some beautiful videos of the sand dunes at sunset. What a beautiful world we live in! It was truly amazing to stand atop this dune, feet slipping in the sand, and admire a sight that nothing else can duplicate. Have you ever looked at something and thought, “This is the only place in the world where this view is possible - and it’s RIGHT HERE!”? It was one of those moments.
We piled back in the car for the ride back to “camp”, and found that the fun had only warmed up! Majid, our driver was just getting started! The hills were hillier, and the dunes, dunier, and the slips- slippery-er... or something. That’s when we realized just how much our stomachs could handle. This would give any roller coaster competition... except it’s a 22 year old driving!
We stopped at a souvenir stand, and we all bought bottles of water - - it seems our mouths were dry! Oh, and at this point we emptied our shoes, returning a dune or two to the desert!
Thankful that the worst was over, Majid started us “homeward, and wouldn’t you know it - - off the road again! As it turns out, dinner is part of the package - and that means dinner in, well, the desert! A few small dunes away lay a true Arabian buffet. We arrived at the “compound” to find souvenir stands, photographers, who will gladly sell you your own picture, and the Middle Eastern version of appetizers. Dale & I had a cup of coffee - Arabian style, and proceeded to the tent where they had Arabian garb for you to have your photograph taken. That photo lies securely in my PERSONAL collection! lol!
The buffet was quite nice - a full selection of Middle Eastern cuisine. Every kind of salad and vegetable dish - most of which I can’t pronounce, never mind spell! There was a large selection of meats - lamb, chicken, beef, and others I did not ask, nor was I told. They all came on skewers! Normally, I’m a burger and fries kind of guy. Mickey D and I are on a first name basis. But I have to admit that this food was quite tasty, and delicious - - to say nothing of sandy! But then again, what’s a buffet in the desert without a sprinkling of sand?!
Oh yes - to drink - - what else? Coca Cola! NOW we’re talking cuisine!
The whole experience gave us a wonderful opportunity to hear the work of Grain DeBle. As it turns out, Catherine’s father had founded the work, and Evelyn’s husband took it over upon his passing. Today, Catherine is the International Director. It was fascinating to learn of the work they do. I’d tell you more, but this blog is already WAY over time!
Well, Majig finally took us back to our hotel, and we crashed for the evening. For me, the conference has begun. I’m learning much about God’s hand at work - and we’ve yet got MUCH to go. Remind me later to tell you about Raja and the people who’re coming to the conference... now THAT”s another story!
Well, it’s time to go. Camel riding in the desert... sand dune riding in the same desert... Middle Eastern buffet in the .... oh well, it was quite a day in the desert. Have you ever thanked God for the desert? I did. Today.
Well, I made it!
Well, I have no photos to post, yet, but I wanted to let everyone know I made it to Dubai!
Traveling is an interesting animal these days. I felt much like those old pictures of Ellis Island - all those hordes of people, all traveling steerage, and waiting, waiting, waiting. Lines, here, lines there, lines everywhere. Airplanes are crowded. I had to use my bifocals to see the TV screen on the seat in front of me, because it was so close to my face! lol! But then again, the guys in first class didn't get there any faster than I did - and they paid a LOT more!
On our way from the airport to the hotel, we passed the famous hotel in the shape of a ship's sail, the Burj Dubai (world's tallest building) and the Palm Island. Well - I saw the lights of the Palm Island - it was about 3:30am at the time. But I can't wait to see more in the daylight!
Anyway - yes, Dubai is a BEAUTIFUL city! My room is right on the water, and it is a tropical paradise. I can't wait to see what the rest of the place is like.
I about an hour or so, I'll be going on a "safari" with some friends of mine - Dale VonSeggen and Paul Morley, and others - where we'll be dune buggy-ing on the desert sands. I expect to see a camel or two - you KNOW that if I'm traveling with Dale - we HAVE to catch at least a VIEW of a camel!
God is Good. Even on the other side of the world, His eyes are watching us, His ears are hearing us, and His hands are holding us. NOTHING is out of His reach. HE IS GOOD!
Well, I don't have a lot to report right now, but keep checking in - I'll try to keep you posted!
Thanks for all your prayers!
See you soon!
Doug
Traveling is an interesting animal these days. I felt much like those old pictures of Ellis Island - all those hordes of people, all traveling steerage, and waiting, waiting, waiting. Lines, here, lines there, lines everywhere. Airplanes are crowded. I had to use my bifocals to see the TV screen on the seat in front of me, because it was so close to my face! lol! But then again, the guys in first class didn't get there any faster than I did - and they paid a LOT more!
On our way from the airport to the hotel, we passed the famous hotel in the shape of a ship's sail, the Burj Dubai (world's tallest building) and the Palm Island. Well - I saw the lights of the Palm Island - it was about 3:30am at the time. But I can't wait to see more in the daylight!
Anyway - yes, Dubai is a BEAUTIFUL city! My room is right on the water, and it is a tropical paradise. I can't wait to see what the rest of the place is like.
I about an hour or so, I'll be going on a "safari" with some friends of mine - Dale VonSeggen and Paul Morley, and others - where we'll be dune buggy-ing on the desert sands. I expect to see a camel or two - you KNOW that if I'm traveling with Dale - we HAVE to catch at least a VIEW of a camel!
God is Good. Even on the other side of the world, His eyes are watching us, His ears are hearing us, and His hands are holding us. NOTHING is out of His reach. HE IS GOOD!
Well, I don't have a lot to report right now, but keep checking in - I'll try to keep you posted!
Thanks for all your prayers!
See you soon!
Doug
Monday, October 8, 2007
Starting out together...
Well, this week is where we “divide and conquer”. Lee gets to go to Virginia to visit her daughter, Chrissy, and grandson Sam, while Doug heads overseas to train children’s workers.
As you probably already heard, Doug will be leaving on Tuesday, October 9, 2007, for a gathering of expatriate children’s workers in Dubai, in the Middle East. In many of the smaller middle eastern nations, Islam is the state religion. However, there is freedom to worship and witness within the ex-patriot community.
The workers expected will come from many nations as well as many different denominations: Anglicans, Catholics, Orthodox, Armenians and Evangelicals. Fortunately, everyone expected speaks English!
Drop by for a visit: www.beyondwordsconference.com
Co-sponsored by Grain de Ble, a Swiss organization with a branch in the Middle East, and the Bible Society of the Gulf, this conference seeks to offer creative training to those working with children in this part of the world. A staff of instructors from the US and UK will assist locals in learning methods of instruction, some of which, they may have quite possibly never experienced before. Some of the subjects will be drama, worship, puppetry, fitness and of course, ventriloquism. That’s Doug’s department. His three workshops will be An Introduction to Ventriloquism, Voicing for Ventriloquism and Writing for Ventriloquism. Hopefully, some will learn a new skill with which to present the Gospel to their congregations.
The conference begins on Friday night, October 12 and continues through Monday evening, October 15. Hopefully, only a mere 4 hours after the closing prayer, Doug will board his plane for the ride home. Air travel time will be approximately 15-16 hours in the air (plus lay-over time in London and 8 hours time difference). Look for him to get home by noon on Tuesday, the 16th.
On Thursday, the 11th, Lee will head south to Virginia Beach to visit her daughter Chrissy and grandson Sam - who just turned 5 last month! Chrissy & Sam came north last year for Sam’s birthday, and we all had a WONDERFUL time celebrating. This year, Lee will be with them for HER birthday - Friday, the 12th! Yes, Doug is not happy with missing her birthday, but considering the circumstances, we’re both glad that she’ll be with Chrissy and Sam. With all the fancy plans, Doug is a little jealous that he doesn’t get to see “the kids”.
Look for Lee to arrive home on Monday night, the 15th.
Well, that’s it for right now. Seeing that Doug is taking the computer to Dubai, he’ll be doing most of the blog updating. So, keep checking in, and we’ll keep you posted!
Thanks for your prayers!
As you probably already heard, Doug will be leaving on Tuesday, October 9, 2007, for a gathering of expatriate children’s workers in Dubai, in the Middle East. In many of the smaller middle eastern nations, Islam is the state religion. However, there is freedom to worship and witness within the ex-patriot community.
The workers expected will come from many nations as well as many different denominations: Anglicans, Catholics, Orthodox, Armenians and Evangelicals. Fortunately, everyone expected speaks English!
Drop by for a visit: www.beyondwordsconference.com
Co-sponsored by Grain de Ble, a Swiss organization with a branch in the Middle East, and the Bible Society of the Gulf, this conference seeks to offer creative training to those working with children in this part of the world. A staff of instructors from the US and UK will assist locals in learning methods of instruction, some of which, they may have quite possibly never experienced before. Some of the subjects will be drama, worship, puppetry, fitness and of course, ventriloquism. That’s Doug’s department. His three workshops will be An Introduction to Ventriloquism, Voicing for Ventriloquism and Writing for Ventriloquism. Hopefully, some will learn a new skill with which to present the Gospel to their congregations.
The conference begins on Friday night, October 12 and continues through Monday evening, October 15. Hopefully, only a mere 4 hours after the closing prayer, Doug will board his plane for the ride home. Air travel time will be approximately 15-16 hours in the air (plus lay-over time in London and 8 hours time difference). Look for him to get home by noon on Tuesday, the 16th.
On Thursday, the 11th, Lee will head south to Virginia Beach to visit her daughter Chrissy and grandson Sam - who just turned 5 last month! Chrissy & Sam came north last year for Sam’s birthday, and we all had a WONDERFUL time celebrating. This year, Lee will be with them for HER birthday - Friday, the 12th! Yes, Doug is not happy with missing her birthday, but considering the circumstances, we’re both glad that she’ll be with Chrissy and Sam. With all the fancy plans, Doug is a little jealous that he doesn’t get to see “the kids”.
Look for Lee to arrive home on Monday night, the 15th.
Well, that’s it for right now. Seeing that Doug is taking the computer to Dubai, he’ll be doing most of the blog updating. So, keep checking in, and we’ll keep you posted!
Thanks for your prayers!
Tuesday, August 7, 2007
Keeping it alive...
So how does one keep a ministry alive? SHOULD one keep a ministry alive - or should we assume that God will keep alive what God wants to keep alive? Sometimes we look for people to step up into leadership, allowing us to back off leadership, but we don't see anyone stepping forward, so we don't step backward. Sometimes we sit tight and wait for signs of movement, expecting God to wave a sign at us from the sky.
We want you to meet two people who've become dear friends of ours, fellow ministers in His service, and up-coming leaders in ministry. We didn't sit back and wait for them to step forward, we tapped them on the shoulder and said, "How about taking over this puppet ministry?"
This is Laura (second from left) and Ian (between Laura and Doug) McCrone. Ian has been a puppeteer since the earliest memorable years of his life. Laura has been an encourager, organizer and fellow puppeteer since the day she met Ian in high school and they began their walk together in the Lord.
Laura has been taking more and more responsibility in leading the puppet ministry at Rutherford Bible Chapel, planning, writing and directing their Labor Day Fair efforts for the last several years. This year, Doug is completely out of the picture (helping simply as a puppeteer), and Laura is leading the ministry with her own style and God's guidance. It's a wonderful encouragement to see such interest and spiritual concern on the part of these young people as they seek to continue a ministry they feel is essential to the Kingdom.
Ian is the proverbial fruit tree whose fruit is beginning to blossom and ripen. After years of being a puppeteer with Laura and his brothers, Ian stepped forward this year to perform solo for the entire week of Summerama. If you don't think that's intimidating, think again. Sometimes the most intimidating audience is kids. Ian came forth with characters that were not only fun to the kids, but endearing - even garnering chants from the kids, calling for their appearance. That kind of character connection is incredibly valuable... just ask Kevin Clash (he's the puppeteer behind Sesame Street's "Elmo"). God is working in Ian to develop new characters, and we're praying that He uses this young man mightily.
These young people are our friends. We pray for them constantly, and ask you to do the same. Pray for God's faithful hand upon them, and their own spiritual growth and development - personally and as leaders. Pray that they will continue to Love the Lord Jesus more than anything - including the puppets - and that they'll love serving Him together.
Sometimes you just have to put down the puppets and check your perspective.
Thanks for your prayers.
Monday, August 6, 2007
Finally! A NEW word from us!
OK - so..... it's been how long, now... a week? We're well aware of how long it's been since we added any new items to the blog. And, since they say to NEVER start a speech with an apology, we profusely apologize for not posting any new information in over a week! (hey - this isn't a speech!)
Last week was the busiest week we can honestly remember in the history of mankind. Lee was busy teaching VBS (a.k.a. 'Summerama') in the mornings, and because last week was spent getting things ready for Lee's classroom, Doug spent the evenings getting ready for the closing program for Summerama last Friday night (Aug 3). Each night had us working almost up to midnight - which isn't something we've never done - it's just something we haven't done RECENTLY.
As we put together our program, we chose to have everyone sing along on a song called "I've Got the Joy". Now, that's not the old Sunday School song, "I've got the joy, joy, joy, joy down in my heart." It's a new one that requires kids to echo the singers on the CD and join them in other joyful shouting and flailing of hands. No one really remembers the right actions to go with the right words - but hey, they're joyfully shouting and flailing their hands!
We repeated the Max Lucado story, "You are Special", as we told last week at West Essex Baptist, using VBS teachers as characters in the story. Lee was the narrator, and Doug put words (and voices) in the volunteers' mouths. It was cute, fun and a wonderful story. That's us in the picture above, telling the story.
Then came the feature of the night - blacklight puppets! RBC hasn't seen much in the way of blacklight puppets other than a song we did at a dinner back in January. So, when the lights went out, the kids went crazy, and the puppets glowed like lightning bugs! There's a picture of them above. The main skit featured two fish - Halo (an angel fish) and Haha (a clown fish), who live in the Sea of Galilee, and commented on all the things Jesus had been doing all week up there on the shores of the sea. He chose them carefully (fortunately for Halo & Haha, many of the fishermen Jesus called dropped their nets and followed Him), He taught them (they traveled in "school" just like the fish do), He healed them, protected them (calmed the sea - much to the delight of a couple of fish) and provided for them (feeding 5000 men at once - until the two fish realized what was in that little boy's lunch: 5 loaves and TWO FISH!).
We closed by encouraging the kids to take what they learned and share it with a friend. This utilized the "Stretch-A-Bellies" puppets from One Way Street, which we've used before and which we'll use many times again in the future. The song, "Give It Away" is just a great song by the Gaither Vocal Band, and encourages the gift of giving in our Christian walk.
We are now in the middle of a two month nap!
Actually, we will shortly begin preparing for our new role in RBC's Sunday School this fall, but until then, we're taking a NAP! It just bears out Doug's favorite saying: There's nothing that can't be fixed by a good nap! (actually, the subject of rest, rebuilding and restoration has been a subject of consideration lately for us. Maybe we'll post a thought or two about that in the next day or two.)
Until we meet again, thank you for praying and stopping by. May the Lord bless & keep you!!
Monday, July 30, 2007
It didn't take God this long....
to write the Ten Commandments when He gave them to Moses! Yes, it's taken a couple of days, but here's the end result of the styrofoam commandments.
I believe we left you off by saying we were going to coat them, paint them and hang' em up!
Well, to answer a popular question, we use a product called "Scupt or Coat" (which can be purchased either directly from the manufacturer, or from a theatrical supplier such as "Rosebrand" to whom we alluded in our July 23 post). It has the consisency and smell of a really thick Elmer's glue, but it's not. It dries into a clear plastic, and not only strengthens the styrofoam, but allows us to use any paint - latex, acrylic or spray - on the surface. That's important, because we painted the majority of the surface gray dappled with white, using latex paint, but we spray-painted the writing area with an artificial stone finish.
Once the basic paint was dry, we went back and filled in the letters with black paint.
Now, for those who have NO interest in making styrofoam props, and have patiently checked back with us, let us assure you that we're hoping the impact of having such large teaching aids such as 4 foot tall "stone" tablets, will have a bearing on their hearts & minds, and they'll remember these for a long time.
We of course, will never forget them, if only for the smell in our apartment that lingers!
Now that the "tablets", as we came to know them, are done, Lee has taken them to Summerama, the name we use for VBS at Rutherford Bible Chapel.
Today is the first day of Summerama, and Lee had almost 30 kids in her class. The theme is "Galilee by-the-Sea", for which we decorated her room as a village on the shore of the sea. You can see her room's decor above. Her group is the first and second graders, and they're called the "Loyal Lukes" (each age group is named for a disciple called by Jesus). Today's lesson is about Jesus choosing his disciples. We'll bring you a full report in a later post.
In the mean time, here's our prayer list: 1) Pray for Lee as she teaches these kids; 2) Pray for Ashlee, Kimmy and Victoria, Lee's helpers in her group; 3) Pray for Doug has he prepares for Friday night's closing program which requires the building of two fish puppets.
We're SO thankful the Lord has given us this work to do. We prayed for so long that He would indicate what it was He really wants us to do, and where He wants us to be. Well, He answered, and for now we're busy where we are, working with Summerama and coming up this fall we'll be working with the Sunday School at Rutherford Bible Chapel. More about that later, too. But for now, we're happy to be useful, and happier to be used!
'Til our next rambling volume, thank you for visitng our site, and may God bless you with His joy!
Saturday, July 28, 2007
Somebody was praying...
THANK YOU for all your prayers. West Essex was a WONDERFUL evening sharing in ministry at that church. The enemy certainly was working hard at pulling us down, but our Heavenly Father prevailed, and we had a glorious night of encouragement and fellowship.
Is'nt it great, after a program, when a child seeks you out to come say, "I loved your puppet"? DigDag had been talking about being a secret agent for Christ, and at least one child made a personal connection to him. That's the kind of impact we hope to have.
Here are a few pictures of the evening.
Lee told a story (Max Lucado's You are Special), and for each character, we took a person from the audience to play the part. Each character got a hat to wear to designate his/her part. For the main characters, Doug provided the voice, as the "actor" opened their mouth. It's a precious story, but the results of using the VBS workers as volunteers was hilarious! There are too many hams teaching VBS these days! Ha ha!
Using the "coloring book" (Bible edition) illusion, Doug presented the importance of reading our Bible. It may seem "blank" to us at first because we don't understand it. But as we read more, and people explain more, we begin to understand more (the line drawings now appear in the book). Then, we pray and ask God to explain it to us, and HE opens it all to us, so that it becomes a wonderful book, filled with color and understanding. (You really had to see the child's reaction when Doug vanished a box of crayons right in front of his face!)
Finally, DigDag came out in a Secret Agent outfit and made believe he was a secret agent working for Mr. Big. The details of his message appear in yestserday's post, so we'll spare you the details, but he brought the point home by pointing out that we are ALL agents of the Lord Jesus Christ, and that we need to trust our Saviour, come together with other believers, learn and read His Word every day, do what He tells us, and lead others to Him.
We're exhausted! Whoever said working for the Lord is a piece of cake only attends fellowship diners! Try doing children's ministry - - it'll drop you to your knees!
Thanks again for your prayers. Today, we're off to start decorating Lee's classroom space for Summerama (and the now-famous ten commandments tablets). Stay tuned there's much, much more to come!
Friday, July 27, 2007
DETOUR!
We interrupt your regularly scheduled blog/prop class to bring you this important message:
"WE HAVE A PROGRAM TONIGHT, AND WE'D LIKE YOU TO PRAY!"
Now, there's nothing out of the ordinary about this program. It's been on our calendar for several weeks, and we've even talked about it here on the blog. But sometimes we get caught up in the hustle & bustle of "things" (like making styrofoam props) and to our own shame leave the ordinary things in the "I'll get to it" pile.
The program for tonight is about being an agent of the Lord Jesus. The central feature is a routine DigDag will do with Doug, while dressed as a "secret agent". We'll open with a fun sing-a-long song from Uncle Charlie's "Made2Praise" series, "Wanna Be". It's a fun song - a parody, of course - whose words are "Ohhhhh - I wanna be more like Jesus - I wanne be more like Him".
Next, we'll do a fun audience participation piece that features people from the audience on stage, wearing funny hats. Each person assumes a role in our story. The story is Max Lucado's "You are Special". Lee reads the story, and Doug puts the words in the mouths of the participants. It's hilariously funny, yet poingant. Doug will follow up with a visual lesson (gospel illusion) using a "blank" Bible which depicts what some people see when think of the Bible. They think it's a "secret code" that they just don't get. Then they read it, and it just becomes words (this time colorless pictures appear in the book when the pages are rifled). Finally, God speaks to the hearts of men, and when they read it, it's filled with life and life-giving power (finally, the pages are shown with full color illustrations). To close the program, DigDag will come out as a "secret agent" and talk about his boss, "Mr. Big", whom he's never met, but still trusts. Then the other agents, some of whom he knows, but others he's never met - sort of like a family! He'll talk about the instructions he got to be an agent - - they're all written in an instruction book, which he hasn't COMPLETELY read, but he's working on it. He learns more every time he reads more. He then explains the secret of being a good agent: rely on Mr. Big, stay in close touch with the other agents, read the instructions and do what you're told! Finally, DigDag reveals that Mr. Big isn't a fictional character, but he's really the Lord Jesus, and we're ALL agents of the Lord Jesus Christ. Trust, unite, train and follow - then lead... and don't be secret! We each can be a super agent just the way we are.
So there you have it - the long and.... well, the long of it, anyway! Please pray that the Lord will use this message and that we'll have freedom of heart and mind to share it freely.
Pray for Lee today as she has to go to the church early to set up. Doug gets out of work at 5 and the program starts at 7, so it's a tight schedule. Just pray that frayed nerves don't get in the way of the Gospel!
We'll get back to the styrofoam soon - stay with us, we'll be right back!
We now return you to your regularly scheduled blog.
"WE HAVE A PROGRAM TONIGHT, AND WE'D LIKE YOU TO PRAY!"
Now, there's nothing out of the ordinary about this program. It's been on our calendar for several weeks, and we've even talked about it here on the blog. But sometimes we get caught up in the hustle & bustle of "things" (like making styrofoam props) and to our own shame leave the ordinary things in the "I'll get to it" pile.
The program for tonight is about being an agent of the Lord Jesus. The central feature is a routine DigDag will do with Doug, while dressed as a "secret agent". We'll open with a fun sing-a-long song from Uncle Charlie's "Made2Praise" series, "Wanna Be". It's a fun song - a parody, of course - whose words are "Ohhhhh - I wanna be more like Jesus - I wanne be more like Him".
Next, we'll do a fun audience participation piece that features people from the audience on stage, wearing funny hats. Each person assumes a role in our story. The story is Max Lucado's "You are Special". Lee reads the story, and Doug puts the words in the mouths of the participants. It's hilariously funny, yet poingant. Doug will follow up with a visual lesson (gospel illusion) using a "blank" Bible which depicts what some people see when think of the Bible. They think it's a "secret code" that they just don't get. Then they read it, and it just becomes words (this time colorless pictures appear in the book when the pages are rifled). Finally, God speaks to the hearts of men, and when they read it, it's filled with life and life-giving power (finally, the pages are shown with full color illustrations). To close the program, DigDag will come out as a "secret agent" and talk about his boss, "Mr. Big", whom he's never met, but still trusts. Then the other agents, some of whom he knows, but others he's never met - sort of like a family! He'll talk about the instructions he got to be an agent - - they're all written in an instruction book, which he hasn't COMPLETELY read, but he's working on it. He learns more every time he reads more. He then explains the secret of being a good agent: rely on Mr. Big, stay in close touch with the other agents, read the instructions and do what you're told! Finally, DigDag reveals that Mr. Big isn't a fictional character, but he's really the Lord Jesus, and we're ALL agents of the Lord Jesus Christ. Trust, unite, train and follow - then lead... and don't be secret! We each can be a super agent just the way we are.
So there you have it - the long and.... well, the long of it, anyway! Please pray that the Lord will use this message and that we'll have freedom of heart and mind to share it freely.
Pray for Lee today as she has to go to the church early to set up. Doug gets out of work at 5 and the program starts at 7, so it's a tight schedule. Just pray that frayed nerves don't get in the way of the Gospel!
We'll get back to the styrofoam soon - stay with us, we'll be right back!
We now return you to your regularly scheduled blog.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
For those who are following our styrofoam saga, the kids next week won't know what went into a simple teaching aid. Still, Lee has plans for the Ten Commandments next week, and they WILL be cut in stone! haha!
Now, you know we don't cut stone, and you DO know that we are styrofoam junkies, so here's what we did today to make the ten commandments more authentic (and we're hoping you can match the correct step with the correct picture):
The styrofoam was prepared yesterday by carving out a layer of foam using hot wire tools from Hot Wire Foam Factory. Today we printed out the wording on an overhead transparency (to assure proper spacing and spelling), projected it onto the styrofoam (upper right) and traced the letters. Then, using a wood-burning tool, we heat-carved the letters into the foam (that's us in the dining room hot-carving the tablets). You can see the carved letters in the foam look pretty good! We then took the tablets outside and "chunked" up the edges with the claw end of a hammer. The tablets on the couch give you a good idea of the size and look of the styrofoam.
Tomorrow, Lee will coat the styro with a hardening agent, which will also allow us to use any paint. Otherwise, spray paint will eat the styrofoam.
And that's as far as we go for today.
Keep in mind that through all this styro madness, Doug is practicing a new script, and we're planning our program for Friday night. We're so thankful that Friday's program doesn't require all that many props! There'll be singing and DigDag, and a lot of fun! The main theme for the night will be "Agents of the Lord Jesus". Please pray for us.
As for now, it's time to turn in for the night. Remember: Psalm 127:2 God gives sleep to those He loves!
night night!
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
We started work today on Lee's class for Summerama next week. We're making two "stone tablets" four feet tall that contain the ten commandments. Pictured, you see us cutting the styrofoam that will become the "stone" tablets. Stay tuned for the whole process, but in the mean time, we're thinking about the original REAL stone tablets.
When God called Moses up on the mountain, He gave him something that had never been given to any man before. God wrote his laws in stone and gave them to to Moses. When Moses came down the mountain, he saw the people reveling, got angry and threw them against a rock, smashing the stone tablets. While we don't know what was on his mind, I think he may very well have been upset - not so much at the sinfulness of the people - but more that because of their behavior, these people didn't deserve such a gift from God.
We think of the ten commandments as a set of rules. We memorize them, recite them, almost thoughtlessly refer to them, but one thing we don't do is treasure them as a gift from God. God loved - and still loves - us so much that He gave us ten different ways to separate ourselves to Him.
What if we thought of the ten commandments as God's gift to us? His way of saying "I love you". Not rules to be adhered, but ten different ways to say, "Let me make you better.'
Monday, July 23, 2007
Well, today it rained cats and dogs here in New Jersey. We’d have posted a photo, but it would pretty much look just like the image you probably already have of our Garden State! But rain has never deterred Lee from getting done what has to get done.
Through her tenacious efforts, Lee was able to make two new supplier contacts today – one with a foam manufacturer and one with a theatrical supplier. When she walked into the foam company, they of course asked what she wanted the foam for. When she told them “puppets’ they responded by saying, “Well, we’ve got what you need – we supply Sesame Street!” Good contact!
Theatrical supplies can be hard to find unless, of course you live in the New York City metropolitan community. One 15 minute trip turned out to be the warehouse of Rosebrand theatrical supply company – one of the largest in the country.
So, why mention these menial details? For the same reason Ellie McFearsome, the elephant in the “Ark-eology” program, talks about taking showers. Sometimes we don’t realize that God gives us things that are right in front of our face, and they’re special things that others may not have, but they’re just what we need. No matter where we go, no matter what we do, God goes before us and prepares the way. He provides like no one else!
Through her tenacious efforts, Lee was able to make two new supplier contacts today – one with a foam manufacturer and one with a theatrical supplier. When she walked into the foam company, they of course asked what she wanted the foam for. When she told them “puppets’ they responded by saying, “Well, we’ve got what you need – we supply Sesame Street!” Good contact!
Theatrical supplies can be hard to find unless, of course you live in the New York City metropolitan community. One 15 minute trip turned out to be the warehouse of Rosebrand theatrical supply company – one of the largest in the country.
So, why mention these menial details? For the same reason Ellie McFearsome, the elephant in the “Ark-eology” program, talks about taking showers. Sometimes we don’t realize that God gives us things that are right in front of our face, and they’re special things that others may not have, but they’re just what we need. No matter where we go, no matter what we do, God goes before us and prepares the way. He provides like no one else!
Sunday, July 22, 2007
Puppet Noir
This week puts us on a two-track course that leads to two different ministries.
One is coming up next week, and we call it, "Summerama". Other churches have a Vacation Bible School, but our has "Summerama". I takes place next week, and Lee will be teaching the first and second graders. At present there are almost 50 kids pre-registered for that class! While we don't expect them all to show up, please pray for Lee as she plans for a large class.
There'll be helpers, and we'll tell you more about them in time, but for now, we're trying to figure out how to decorate a room to look like a sea village on the shores of the Sea of Galilee! The room itself has plenty of room, but the walls are dark - dark brown, which doesn't lend itself to a cheery sea-side village for kids. Just wait til you see what she has up her sleeve! We promise photos by the weekend, but in the mean time, pray for us as we gather palm trees, ocean waves, desert tents and sand dunes.
Doug will be joining in
on Friday night, August 3, for the closing program - and we'll tell you more about THAT later, too.
More urgently, we're participating in the Vacation Bible School at West Essex Baptist Church (see - we told you other churches call it 'Vacation Bible School'!). Their theme is "SonForce Kids" which is a spy-kids theme. DigDag is taking on a "puppet noir" look for the occassion. He'll be wearing this outfit, so get your imagination warmed up for a secret - SHHH! - SECRET agent puppet.
Please pray for both of these programs. There's a lot of planning that goes into both of these weeks, and a lot of prep work. We appreciate your prayerful support.
One is coming up next week, and we call it, "Summerama". Other churches have a Vacation Bible School, but our has "Summerama". I takes place next week, and Lee will be teaching the first and second graders. At present there are almost 50 kids pre-registered for that class! While we don't expect them all to show up, please pray for Lee as she plans for a large class.
There'll be helpers, and we'll tell you more about them in time, but for now, we're trying to figure out how to decorate a room to look like a sea village on the shores of the Sea of Galilee! The room itself has plenty of room, but the walls are dark - dark brown, which doesn't lend itself to a cheery sea-side village for kids. Just wait til you see what she has up her sleeve! We promise photos by the weekend, but in the mean time, pray for us as we gather palm trees, ocean waves, desert tents and sand dunes.
Doug will be joining in
on Friday night, August 3, for the closing program - and we'll tell you more about THAT later, too.More urgently, we're participating in the Vacation Bible School at West Essex Baptist Church (see - we told you other churches call it 'Vacation Bible School'!). Their theme is "SonForce Kids" which is a spy-kids theme. DigDag is taking on a "puppet noir" look for the occassion. He'll be wearing this outfit, so get your imagination warmed up for a secret - SHHH! - SECRET agent puppet.
Please pray for both of these programs. There's a lot of planning that goes into both of these weeks, and a lot of prep work. We appreciate your prayerful support.
A-flying we will go
After church this morning, we decided to have a lunch in the beautiful sunshine God gave us. How about take-out and a park? Where that took us was a surprise to both of us.
Not far from the KFC is the NJ Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum - which includes a M*A*S*H exhibit. So, there, amidst the authentic helicopters and medical tents, were picnic tables... where we ate our KFC!
OK, so it's a little odd to have lunch in a surgical tent amidst old aircraft, but we weren't there for the ambience! It was just a chance to spend some time together.
One thing we did learn was the historical significance of New Jersey, and Teterboro in particular, in the history of American aviation and the space program (much of the LEM vehicle, used on the moon for the Apollo space missions was developed and built right here in New Jersey).
After an afternoon at the museum, there's only one perfect ending... A NAP!
We still say, "There's no problem in the world that can't be solved by a GOOD NAP!"
"Go and do likewise"
The message at church this morning was based on Luke 10, the good Samaritan. That story ends with two sentences, "The one who had mercy on him." and "Go and do likewise."
What followed that story was a presentation on the plight of the believers in the Congo. This is a country where war and political unrest have ravaged the small villages in the remotest parts of the country. There were schools, churches, libraries and homes - all without roofs. Still, the villagers have not lost their faith. The churches are slowly beginning to fill again on Sunday mornings, and life is coming back to these communities.
But the needs are still great. We saw schoolrooms filled with kids, but no books. Try teaching a class of 80 kids, and all they have are a notebook and pen to write whatever you say. Printed literature is hard to come by. Building supplies are expensive to purchase, and even at that, delivery of materials isn't guaranteed.
That all being said, "Go and do likewise" takes on a new meaning. After spending some time with Mr. Wolcott, the speaker, we've asked to get in contact with people who can help us learn how to equip those schools with books. Pray with and for us that we'll be able to help in some small way to provide some of those needs for those precious children. Others have taken up the challenge of roofing the buildings, but to date, there isn't an organized effort to equip the schools. These kids are anxious to learn. Pray with us for help.
What followed that story was a presentation on the plight of the believers in the Congo. This is a country where war and political unrest have ravaged the small villages in the remotest parts of the country. There were schools, churches, libraries and homes - all without roofs. Still, the villagers have not lost their faith. The churches are slowly beginning to fill again on Sunday mornings, and life is coming back to these communities.
But the needs are still great. We saw schoolrooms filled with kids, but no books. Try teaching a class of 80 kids, and all they have are a notebook and pen to write whatever you say. Printed literature is hard to come by. Building supplies are expensive to purchase, and even at that, delivery of materials isn't guaranteed.
That all being said, "Go and do likewise" takes on a new meaning. After spending some time with Mr. Wolcott, the speaker, we've asked to get in contact with people who can help us learn how to equip those schools with books. Pray with and for us that we'll be able to help in some small way to provide some of those needs for those precious children. Others have taken up the challenge of roofing the buildings, but to date, there isn't an organized effort to equip the schools. These kids are anxious to learn. Pray with us for help.
Saturday, July 21, 2007
Today we took a walk after lunch, enjoying the beautiful countryside. Hard to believe it's New Jersey, isn't it?!
We purchased some supplies preparing us for a program this week in which DigDag must be dressed as a "secret agent". Wait til you see him!
Be praying this week for that progam. Also, please be in prayer as we prepare for next week when we will be responsible for the closing program at our own church's VBS. More about that to come.
Thanks for checking in and praying with us. Your prayers are GREATLY appreciated.
Friday, July 20, 2007
An I-Fest memory
Left to right this is Ellie, Lee, Edgar and myself. It's one of my favorite pictures from I-Fest, because it shows BOTH of us with both puppets.
Although Doug gets a lot of attention for being the performer, most people don't realize the amount of work Lee does on each presentation. Just to give you an idea, Lee finished all the "wood" finish you see on the ark, plus all the sewing and the skins of the puppets. She picked out the fabrics and made the patterns. She also advised on the script and stood with me all through the performance. For those who think that vent is a one-man show, you're sadly mistaken. This effort could never have been completed by one person. Thank God for the partnerships He gives!
Who we are...
This is our logo. It features three puppets that started us on our journey.
The most prominent puppet is DigDag, Doug's ventriloquial sidekick. He's the one with the large head, red shirt and cap that says, "DigDag".
Counterclockwise from him is Katie Bear. She's a tender and affectionate Teddy Bear, who learns most of her Bible through lessons with Miss Lee.
At the top of the circle is Walter. He's actually a marionette designed and built as an un-named character in a puppet play based on Max Lucado's book, "The Great House of God". However, the more we worked with him and attributed personality traits to him, the more we realized how much his character resembled Doug's dad! We took one glance at each other and knew immediately that his name should be "Walter". He remains the "wise sage" of our troupe.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
For those who don't know, DigDag & Doug are one part of Everlasting Arms Ministries (EAM) in East Rutherford, NJ. Our official website is: http://www.everlastingarmsministries.com/.
EAM consists of Doug and Lee Nearpass and our creative ministries, encompassing puppets, ventriloquism, storytelling, drama, music and lots and lots of fun. Our ministry reaches young and old alike, making our program ideal for family programs.
Sometimes we're busier than we can imagine, and other times we're taking time to refresh, recharge and reboot.
Our most recent venture was half way across the country to Bourbonnais, Illinois, where we attended I-Fest, the International Festival of Christian Puppetry and Ventriloquism. It's the best Christian conference on creative ministries of any kind for my money, even though it stays firmly tied to puppetry and vent (that's why we like it so much!). We'll be posting more as the days rise up, but for now, let's just say, "Welcome" to our blog. We hope you'll find it of interest and value.
God be with you 'til we meet again!
EAM consists of Doug and Lee Nearpass and our creative ministries, encompassing puppets, ventriloquism, storytelling, drama, music and lots and lots of fun. Our ministry reaches young and old alike, making our program ideal for family programs.
Sometimes we're busier than we can imagine, and other times we're taking time to refresh, recharge and reboot.
Our most recent venture was half way across the country to Bourbonnais, Illinois, where we attended I-Fest, the International Festival of Christian Puppetry and Ventriloquism. It's the best Christian conference on creative ministries of any kind for my money, even though it stays firmly tied to puppetry and vent (that's why we like it so much!). We'll be posting more as the days rise up, but for now, let's just say, "Welcome" to our blog. We hope you'll find it of interest and value.
God be with you 'til we meet again!
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