Praying Friends,
Today I read in my devotions how God is our strength and shield, and how He helps those that put their trust in Him (Psalm 28:7).  It is comforting to know that during those times of difficulty and weakness God provides strength.  He provides the strength necessary to serve Him in face of spiritual opposition and persecution.  I praise the Lord to know that He is protecting us even now, and that we can rest in Him safely as a soldier finds security behind a shield.  The help from the Lord is not just in the times of storm but in the sunny days as well.  His help is applied to all areas of our lives as believers, and the psalmist encourages us to continue to trust in Him.
The Lord has been our help in many ways recently in the ministry.  Last week we celebrated the anniversary of Grace Baptist Church.  God has shown His power and protection in the growth and preservation of this group of believers.  It was a wonderful time together and we pray that the Lord would continue to bless this church until His return.
This weekend we had another visitor from the United States, Pastor Paul Rebert.  Pastor Rebert is the pastor of our sending church, First Baptist Church in Danville, Illinois.  He graciously added to his already busy schedule by visiting us before he ventured on to several preaching opportunities in the Philippines.  He visited only for three days, but we kept him busy.  God used him in speaking to the men at our men's breakfast and also in preaching on Sunday morning.  He also had the opportunity to see the culture and diversity while walking the streets in downtown Melbourne.  May God use him greatly while in the Philippines.
This weekend we have church camp in Anglesea.  It will be a time of hearing God's Word and spending time in fellowship with other believers.  Please be in prayer that God would encourage hearts during camp.
Thank you so much for reading our updates and we are encouraged by the prayer support that we are receiving.  May God bless you all!
In Christ,
Mark Pitts and Family

 

Anniversary Service

 

Pastor Rebert at the Queen Victory Market

Praying Friends,
Here are just a couple photos of our most recent activity, the children's picnic.  The day started out very chilly, but God pushed away the clouds and brought out the sun and it warmed right up.  There were three extra children for our activity and they all had a great time.  Our desire is to see more kids in our children's program at Grace Baptist Church.  Please pray that we would see families start to attend and respond to the Lord.
Thank you for your prayers. 
In Christ,
Mark Pitts and Family