Hello to our great Friends and favorite Supporters,
NEW YEAR............Another year is upon us and it’s always nice to get a fresh start, a fresh outlook on life.
“So roll up your sleeves, put your mind in gear, be totally ready to receive the gift that’s coming when Jesus arrives. Don’t lazily slip back into those old grooves of evil, doing just what you feel like doing. You didn’t know any better; you do now. As obedient children, let yourselves be pulled into a way of life shaped by God’s life, a life energetic and blazing with holiness.” 1 Peter 1:13 (the Message)
What a way to start the year!
NEW ANNOUNCEMENT…………
Our family will finish our assignment, serving in the Philippines with Pacific Missionary Aviation, on Sept 30th of this year. That is exactly 9 years since we arrived here. Our initial commitment was a term of 3 years; but God stretched us to make it three terms. Our lives have been enriched by the Filipinos who have worked alongside us. Our kids have embraced the culture and our paths have mingled with other missionaries pressing on with the Great Commission as their centerpiece. It is a blessing and an honor to serve here.
We still have much to accomplish in the next 8 months. God humbles us regularly and we have grown closer to Him. We trust Him for our daily provision and He has worked out the details. As a family, we look forward to being closer to the grandparents (Malcolm’s dad in California, and Mary’s mom in Iowa.) We miss Will so much and want to be near him and Lauren as they move on in college.
NEW AND “OLD” SUPPORTERS…………
As supporters, we are asking if you could stay with us until the end of September?! Financially, we need a strong finish to pack up our belongings and move our family back to Iowa, then transition into a new situation. We will leave this country on July 4, then visit churches and meet up with you in the USA during those last months.
Our personal support with PMA will continue until Sept 30th. This is same support that many of you have generously given for over 8 years and we THANK YOU! For some others, have you have ever thought of sharing in this ministry? Now is a great time to start. It’s never too late and 8 months is a pretty short commitment….or we would be ever-grateful for a one-time gift. (See the headquarters address below.)
MEDICAL OUTREACH AND ADOPTION…………
January was a month of action and emotion. With the help of a ministry team from Iowa, we were able to accomplish a three-day medical outreach in two remote villages. These visitors can testify that it was not easy to get there! By air, boat, and walking through low tide, we arrived ready to serve. PMA recently planted a church in one of those villages, and these people had NEVER had a medical outreach or barely any medical assistance in their history. Seven local doctors and dentists joined us to share God’s love to over 900 patients. Can you picture this? We had to bring with us – the medicine, dental supplies, drinking water, backpacks, sleeping bags, and even tents for 19 people. It is only God that gives us strength.
Our Bahay Kalinga child, Aileen, was adopted the following Tuesday. Malcolm flew the family to Mindoro, along with Dr John, who was doing monthly checks on all the children. We rejoiced is seeing the “forever” family meet and unite with Aileen. Of course, the family cried and the caregivers cried. After a while of warming up, Aileen was all smiles as she headed out on the jeepney, enroute to the USA.
“And that’s about it, friends. Be cheerful. Keep things in good repair. Keep your spirits up. Think in harmony. Be agreeable. Do all that, and the God of love and peace will be with you for sure. Greet one another with a holy embrace. All the brothers and sisters here say hello.” 2 Corinthians 13:11-13 (the Message)
Much love to you,
Malcolm and Mary Cleope, Lauren, Chris, & Mark, plus Will in Iowa
All donations can be sent to PMA Headquarters:
Pacific Missionary Aviation
P.O. Box 3209
Hagatna, Guam 96932
Thank you for your support!
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