The Walthall's Journey of Faith: Bangkok, Thailand

Happy Chinese (Lunar) News Years!

2012-01-24T15:02:00.000+07:00

Happy Chinese (Lunar) new year!
In this part of the world, Chinese news year is a big deal. While, in Thailand, it is not a national holiday, the holiday is still celebrated with great fan fare. Since moving to Thailand, I am amazed at the Chinese influence in, not only Thailand, but in all of Southeast Asia. Whether they are from Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand or other nearby countries, most will say they have Chinese ancestry. And, even if you are not part Chinese, most will celebrate the festive Chinese New Year. Apparently, this is the year of the dragon which one of the 12 yearly symbols.

We just wanted to share with you some pictures from Monday (23 January) as we celebrated the Chinese New Year with some of our dear friends (most of whom are BSF'ers).

The above picture is of the ladies that attended the Chinese luncheon at the Shangrala Hotel in Bangkok (from left to left to right)

Doreen (BKK Day Women's class Class Admin), Jessica (not in BSF but is our landlord and good friend), Candi (BKK Day Women's class Substitute TL, Claudia (BKK Day Women TL), Charlene (Dehli, India Evening Women's class serving as Assistant Class Admin) & Dorothy (BKK Evening women's class member)

And, here are the men that attended the Chinese luncheon (from left to right)

Mark (BKK Evening men's class Class Admin), Lay Tee (not currently in BSF, but is our landlord and just so fun to be around), Gary (BKK Evening Men's class TL), Mike (use to be by STL in BKK, but is now in Dehli, India serving as Substitute TL) & Howard (BKK EM STL & host for our luncheon)

We are thankful the Lord has brought us to Thailand & we are enjoying serving the Lord here!
thank you for your interest & your prayers

Gary & Claudia Walthall
Serving in Bangkok, Thailand with Bible Study Fellowship (BSF)

Bangkok Evening men class; Good news, Bad news

2012-01-12T10:18:00.003+07:00

Good news: I wanted to show 2 pictures of our discussion groups right before the Christmas break. One group is rather large with 17 men going over their daily questions. Each group is led by a discussion group leader which facilitates the group discussion. I just love this picture because it shows men who are interested enough to pull away from their busy lives and come on Monday night to study God's word.

Bad news: Each discussion group should not have more than 15 men in each group so that the discussion can be more meaningful and manageable. This night, I had to combine 2 different groups into one because I lack enough group leaders to lead.

Prayer request: bottom line...I need at least 1 more group leader (possibly 2). Pray with me that God will prepare the hearts of one on my class members to step up to the challenge of being a group leader.

Good news: we have a school program! Currently, we have level 5 open which includes students from 13-18 years of age. On opening day of our class for ACTS, we had 5 students come. Now, we are down to 2 students. However, both of these young men are Thai and one needs help with English. The good news is my children's leader is a Thai and can help translate. Both of the Thai students are very faithful in attending. I am so thankful for the 3 leaders we have in our school program. They are faithful and see the importance of their work in the school program.

Bad news: Back in November, my 2nd children's leader abruptly left so that I only have one children's leader. Our requirement is that we have 2 CL's per class. The the other bad news is we only have 2 students.

Prayer request: We NEED 1 more CL and we need more students. Pray the Lord will prepare the heart of another man to take on such an important role of teaching these students. Also, pray the men of the class will see the great value of bringing their school aged students to class with them on Monday nights. Also, pray for my current leaders to faithfully continue to serve and not be discouraged by such small numbers of students.

thank you for your interest in our class. We value your interest & prayers

Gary

a morning walk to the Park

2012-01-11T21:45:00.004+07:00

A morning walk to the Park; Street vendors, exercise & lizards... (Jan 11)

One of the benefits of living where we do, there is a great nearby park; just about a 10 minute walk. Of course, ANY day in Thailand is going to be warm, but today was cooler than normal because it was cloudy. So, this morning (Wednesday) Claudia & I walked down to Lumpini Park (pronounced; "Loom-P-Nee") to walk & run. The Thai people, especially older Thai's, love to go the Park early and exercise before it gets too hot. Some will walk or run, but others like to do Tai Chi in groups (sometimes with fans, or swords; yes, I said swords!)

However, on our way to the Park, we walked through a small & crowded pathway of street "food vendors." This is a common occurrence around the city everyday. Either for breakfast, lunch or dinner, most Thai's pick up food to go or they'll eat at some small tables set up on the sidewalk. While this is a normal occurrence for the nationals, Claudia & I generally do not eat on street.

And, lastly, most times at the park it would be hard to miss the rather large lizards that occasionally come out of the water and rest on the bank. They appear to be harmless but they can get quite big (some up to 5-6') a just a little intimidating. Here's a pic of a small lizard near the water. No one seems bothered by them being around, so we just act like it's "normal" to have what appears to be man eating lizards hanging around (just kidding about 'man eating'). As for as we know... we can out run them!

Anyway, thought you might be interested in a few things that happened this morning.

Gary & Claudia Walthall
enjoying Thailand and what God has called us to do through BSF

Persecution

2012-01-11T21:29:00.001+07:00

Persecution of Christians are generally something we only hear about happening in some far off distant land. However, over the past couple of months, several men have come to our men's class who are fleeing religious persecution in their own countries. We've had men from Iran, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and VietNam who are here seeking asylum from persecution.

On Monday (Jan 9) we had 2 new men come from a nearby country. One of the men was a pastor, who had his church demolished & he was severely beaten with lasting injuries. His wife & children are currently under house arrest in an attempt to lure this man back to his country.

Before Christmas, we had another man come to our class from Pakistan who fled to Bangkok seeking asylum. He was a Muslim who converted to Christianity. At one point, he was also beaten/stoned to the point he lost one eye. His wife is currently back in Pakistan in hiding.

It is a sad reminder of how Satan, our defeated yet dangerous foe, is still trying to destroy God's church & his people. However, each of these men who have come to our class, still praise God and remain strong in their faith.

Will you pray with me for these persecuted men to continue with us and gain strength from studying God's word?

Thank you for your interest in our work in Thailand. Thought you'd want to know.

Gary

Prison visit

2012-01-11T20:41:00.001+07:00

Monday morning at prison (Jan 9):
On most Monday mornings, I teach in one of the central prisons for drug offenses in Bangkok. However, for the past 3 months I have not been able to go because of the floods in Thailand & then, Claudia & I went back to the USA for Christmas break. However, I wanted to share with you a wonderful story about a young man I met today.

Upon arriving & as the men began gathering together, I was introduced to a young man from Singapore named Max. He has just been in prison since October and has not yet received his sentence. Max is a tall well spoken educated young man...probably about 30. Another prisoner introduced me to Max & said, "Max had been a Buddhist but NOW has received Christ."

I couldn't help but see & be moved by the smile on his face as he began telling me that God had been pursuing him. However, with God's previous attempts to reach him, he rejected God & Christ at each point. But, then...life changed suddenly for Max. He was arrested on drug charges & placed in prison. It was in this prison that others also began to share Christ with him. And, now the rest is history. I've never seen a man so happy to be in prison because it was where God finally caught up with him & got his attention.

When all the men, who had congregated to listen to a Bible lesson (about 80 men in all), I couldn't help but notice Max's reaction when the men began singing Amazing Grace. He began wiping the tears from his face. My thoughts were...how Amazing God is & how far God will go to reach a soul. He just needed to get Max to a place where he would listen.

Prison is an ugly place to be... but it can be a place where men will finally listen. It's too bad it has to come to that, but God will go to any length to reach a soul.

thank you for listening...
pray that many more men will come to know Christ... like Max

serving a Great GOD!
Gary

Trip to Phuket, Thailand

2010-06-01T18:17:00.003+07:00

A few days at the beach in Southern Thailand; Phuket island

Our trip to BEIJING, CHINA (April 7-14)

2010-05-22T16:31:00.005+07:00

In Thailand, during the 2nd & 3rd weeks of April, there is a national holiday; Songkran (or, water festival). April is the hottest time of the year so during this time it is common for people to travel. And, since this was a national holiday, our BSF classes were also closed during this time. So, we decided to go Beijing, China for a week. It was a wonderful and once in a life time trip.

During our weeks stay we visited Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City, The Silk & Pearl market, the Great Wall (this was our favorite), the Temple of Heaven, The Olympic stadium (birds nest) & Aquatic center and the Summer Palace. Here are just a few of some pictures of our trip. For more pictures you can visit Claudia's facebook.

Beijing, China; April 7-14, 2010

BSF Men's Class; from Pilot to an Established Class

2010-05-22T16:10:00.004+07:00

May, 2010

Greetings once again from the amazing land Thailand. To God be the glory! God is indeed working in Bangkok.

Who knew what God would do or had in mind when He called us to join His ongoing work in Bangkok? We arrived in August, 2008 with hopes, dreams and goals, but you never know exactly what God has in mind. However, we faithfully came to Thailand hoping for the best and only time will tell what God will unfold.

EVENING MEN’S CLASS:This was a TEST
After 17 months in Thailand, the men’s pilot class began in January, 2010. How amazing is God to draw these men from all over Bangkok to study his word. The men’s class has the feel of an international gathering of nations. The majority of the men in the class are Asian (Thai, Chinese, Singaporean, Japanese) along with Philippines, Africans and Westerners.

Conducting a series of short PILOT classes is away to gauge if there is enough interest to maintain an established class. This was a TEST for the men of Bangkok. Will the men embrace a disciplined study such as BSF? Will they persevere or just fall away? Will they overcome the obstacles in attending class or will they succumb to the many barriers that get in the way?

We give God the glory for allowing us to conduct all three of the 5 week pilot classes (Philippians, Ruth & Colossians). While the class started with 86 men in attendance for the 1st class and ended with 46 men in the 15th week, we have much to be encouraged about. We are reminded that this was a TEST for each man as to his commitment. However, some will fall away and while some will continue and grow deep roots. Even those who just came for a week or 2, perhaps the taste of God’s word will draw them back in the future. Success is never measured in numbers but in how God is changing the hearts and minds of one man at a time.
One of our discussion groups: During this time men share their answers to their weekly questions

Changed hearts & minds
As I reflect on the past 3 studies, I am reminded of how God has indeed changed the hearts of men who faithfully attended. I am reminded of the retired teacher from North America, who came to Thailand seeking an adventure & found Christ. Then, still searching and seeking for more, came to BSF for 15 weeks. His life is being transformed and is now enthusiastically telling others about BSF! He also commented that had he known what he knows now (through the Bible), it would have saved his marriage.

I think of the Philippine doctor, whose wife is a very enthusiastic class member of the BSF women's class, and how she persuaded (or should I say, "nagged & dragged") her husband to attend the first class despite his lack of Bible knowledge and reluctance. At the end of the first class night, he did not want to leave! He faithfully, joyfully & enthusiastically attended ALL 15 weeks!

I am reminded of the many Thais who struggle with English yet who persevered through the study. Or, I think of a man, who is currently going through personal marital troubles, faithfully came seeking answers to his troubles and trials.

And, I think of the Thai Buddhist, whose wife is a Christian, who attended the class. At first he indicated he was “just auditing the class” with detachment to his discussion group. Later, Mike Wellings, our Substitute teaching leader, showed him where and how he could use his Bible to find the answers to the questions. He then became more engaged in the discussion group. He faithfully attended all 3 pilot classes with very few absences. I pray God’s word will continue to open is eyes that he may see…all to the glory of the Lord.

These are just a few of many stories of God changing lives & hearts. And, so we give Praise to God!

Passing the TEST: NOW an established class
The men of Bangkok have passed the TEST & the city of Bangkok will have an established men’s class beginning September 13, 2010. Currently, we have 65 men registered for the Isaiah study plus 7 potential students for the school program. And so we give God the glory for all he has done.

I will send more later regarding the BSF women's day time prayer group. There is some exciting news coming!

Gary

Bangkok's First BSF class started tonight!

2010-01-18T23:24:00.007+07:00

After much prayer and waiting, the time has finally arrived. We finally started the men's BSF class tonight. Praise God for his goodness and provision. We had a total of 79 men attend! Our class is on Monday nights at the Saphan Luang (Yellow Bridge) Chineese/Thai Church.
Here are a few pics of tonight's class.

BSF LEADERSHIP TEAM

2009-11-28T21:52:00.002+07:00

Above is our BSF leadership team. Top row (from left to right); Montree (Thai), Paul (Thai), Harun (India), Ferdinand (Philippines), Wichai (Thai), John (Kenya), & Howard (Hong Kong)
Bottom row (left to right); Mark (Singapore), Thirayost (Thai), Hyou (Thai), Delbrin (Philippines), Paul (Kenya), Gary (USA), Mike (Canada). The one leader missing from the picture is Wiworn (Thai).

We've been training for 3 weeks with one more week to go. I just love these men and their willingness and faithfulness to serve. We'll take off December and then the class will begin 18 Jan for 5 weeks (through 15 Feb).

Currently, we have 95 men & 7 children registered. At the end of the 1st 5 week class (Philippians), we will continue with 2 more 5 week classes. (Ruth and Colossians). At the end of each 5 week class, the men have a chance to register for the next class.

God is good!

Gary

BSF October PRESENTATIONS : God is doing a new thing!

2009-11-01T18:45:00.004+07:00

It's been a wild and busy October. We've been in Thailand for over a year preparing and praying for this moment. We've had prayer meetings & we've made as many connections as we could to tell men about BSF. Now, October has become the ONE month where it will be decided to say whether we're done or whether we are ready to move forward.

During October we've had 8 separate presentations and God has richly blessed us....beyond measure, beyond my own expectations. To date, we've registered 88 men & 6 children. All I can say is praise God! We had a goal of 75 men when we started. I must admit I thought it was unobtainable. But, God proved bigger and more able than my ability to dare to dream.

Not only has God given us these men, but he has richly blessed us with men who are willing to commit to leadership positions. Currently, I have 11 leaders with 2 more who are still considering it. That leaves me with 3 more leaders to obtain (16 in all) by Nov 16 (our first training date for leaders). I trust God will continue to provide for us by this date.

My prayer has been for God to not leave us short on men, or short on leaders or short on children to come for our children's program. God has not disappointed. God is good. I stand in awe and amazement in seeing HIM work.

So, what's next? We will be training the leaders for 4 weeks beginning Nov 16. Then, we're off for the month of December. Our 1st 5 week Pilot class date is now scheduled for 18 January (Monday night)- February 15. We are indeed excited to be moving toward the goal of having our 1st pilot class for men in Bangkok. To HIM be the Glory!

thank you for your interest in our ministry and for your prayers.

Gary
Isaiah 43:19 "See I am doing a new thing! Now is springs up; do you not perceive it?"

BSF update

2009-09-09T20:25:00.002+07:00

Since we've been back to Thailand, we've continued our work with BSF. As of Tuesday night (Sept 8), the women's class met for their first lesson in the book of JOHN. Even though it rained last night (which snarls traffic and kept some ladies from coming) they had 25 women attend the Introduction class! That a tremendous turn out for 1st time ladies interested in joining the class. With the addition of the new women, they will be opening their 8th discussion group! God is good! Claudia was excited to finally meet the women in her discussion group. Claudia is one of the discussion group leaders.

Regarding the children's program, the women have one level open; (Senior level; ages 14-18) with 8 students.

As for the men, things are getting close to launch. Mike Wellings (my co-partner from Canada) and I will be traveling back to the USA (San Antonio, TX) Sept 19-25 for additional training. When we return, we will immediately begin registering men for the upcoming 5 week pilot class. We are excited to see how God will work. The month of October is already shaping up to be a busy month for us.

There is much to do before we actually start the class, but at least we are moving forward. Our goal is to register 75 men, find enough qualified leaders willing to commit, then train these leaders for 4 weeks prior to the class starting & also find a host church. No problem! Oh well, the Lord never promised things were going to be easy. In the meantime, we "press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me (us). Phil 3:14

Finally, an update! Sorry for the delay

2009-09-08T19:31:00.016+07:00

Sorry for such a long delay in updating the blog! A lot has happened and the more time I let pass the worse it became in trying to update. However, without trying to recount the past 4-5 months, let me just give you a brief summary with a few highlights.

CAITLIN GRADUATES from ISB June 10, 2009. She did such a marvelous job in her studies. Caitlin is my new HERO. For the past 2 years Caitlin has handled herself with diligence, perseverance and of course, with excellence...all without a single complaint. She definitely rose to the challenge of being in 2 different schools & in 2 different countries (Greece and Thailand) over the past 2 years to finish her high school career. Her experience in living overseas has and will continue to shape Caitlin in her world view. Who really knows the true impact her overseas experience will make on her future path in life. Only God knows.

Now, she has enrolled at Baylor University (Waco, Texas) and started school August 24. This is Caitlin (before her she got her hair cut) and her room mate Caroline in front of their dorm at Baylor .
Caitlin and Caroline in their dorm room.

BACK in the USA from June 12-Aug 24. What can I say but it was great to be back during our summer break. I must say we spent most of our time visiting family and friends. Living overseas you forget what NORMAL looks and feels like. It took all of about 10 seconds to feel normal again. It's really nice to be able drive and get around by car anytime your want.

While we were busy visiting Tara & Isaac in Dallas, moving Erica and Chase from Norman to Edmond in their new house and with a brief trip to California to see my mother and sister, we spent the majority of our time in Tulsa. We stayed out in Coweta with some new found friends Scott and Kim Burnett. We stayed in the BARN next to their BIG HOUSE. However, you need not pity us for being so mistreated as homeless missionaries. God was good and provided us wonderful Christian friends and wonderful accommodations.

Some summer pics; our 3 girls at a wedding & my 4 girls at the musical WICKED in Tulsa.

Our last night the USA; eating Mexican food at Haciendas in Dallas with Tara & Isaac, Erica & Chase & Claudia (I'm taking the pic).

NOW, we're back in Thailand as of August 25. I will write another blog to update you later on what's happening in Thailand.

Blessings!
Gary

Songkran celebration in Thailand

2009-04-15T21:47:00.004+07:00

For 3 days Thai's celebrate Songkran which is their New Years celebration. The ritual includes spraying water on each other and coating themselves and others with a white paste over a period of 3 days.

On our way to dinner tonight at a nearby restaurant, we unexpectedly went directly into hoards of people celebrating Songkran. The streets were filled with 1000's of people. As we walked toward the restaurant, celebrants would throw water on you or spray you with water as well as paint your face with a white paste.

Even though it seemed like a chaotic mess, the Thai's were respectful to us as "forangs" (i.e. westerners)and politely approached us. All in all, it was fun once you got over the initial "splash" of cold water. Below is what we looked like when we arrived home.

Below is what the crowd was like; picture taken from the restaurant.

Below is what we looked like when we arrived at the restaurant.

Green Light: Transitioning to Phase II (Pilot phase)

2009-04-09T21:41:00.007+07:00

Prayer group meeting 19 March. This group of men (which is not all of our prayer group) represent 7 different countries (Thailand, Philippines, China, Japan, India, Canada & USA) and 7 different churches throughout Bangkok.
Here's the latest on our efforts with BSF and the men's prayer group. We have been meeting since late October as an official prayer group in an effort build a "core group" of men willing to help us pray and support our efforts in the future to get a BSF class started in Bangkok. As a result of our efforts and by God's power and grace to draw men to us, BSF headquarters has given us a "green light" to begin registering men in Sept-Dec for a 5 week pilot class. This is definitely good news to know for certain that we will be here next year to continue our efforts. The PILOT phase is the 2nd phase in moving toward establishing a permanent class in Bangkok.

Mike Welling (my co-partner with BSF) and I will be traveling back to San Antonio Texas Sept 19-25 for additional training. When we return, we will begin our concentrated effort to begin registering men, finding leaders and locating a host church. We can't wait to see how God will unfold all of this in our next step of faith.

thank you for your prayers and interest

Gary

Beginning Thai language classes

2009-03-20T21:46:00.003+07:00

Well, I've finally made the jump into language classes. I don't know why I've procrastinated for so long, but I guess it's better late than never. I think since I took 2 levels in Greek while in Greece last year only to move out of the county may have quelled my interest in taking another language. Especially not knowing if our time in Bangkok would long term or not. But, as it appears now, we will be here for at least another year. So, why not?

I began classes a week ago last Thursday (March 12) and will be attending for 4 weeks (M-F) in the mornings for 3 hours/class. Needless to say, after 3 hours a day of language class, my brain (or what's left of it) is pretty "fried."

One funny moment last week in class when I was trying to tell another person my name in Thai, that I stumbled over saying my own name Gary! I definitely got "tongue twisted." Well, I'll persevere for another 13 lessons (until April 9).

I do enjoy our young female Thai teacher (Khruu su nissa). Our class only has 2 people in it, so it's just Bernie (a retired teacher from England) and me.

more later...
Gary

BSF Men's prayer group; Special Thursday meeting

2009-03-20T21:11:00.005+07:00

As you can see, the this group is very diverse; 7 nationalities (8 Thai, 3 Americans, 2 Chinese, 2 Filipino, 1 Japanese, 1 Canadian & 1 Indian) representing 7 different churches.

Thursday night, our prayer group convened a Special meeting so that the BSF Area Adviser (who lives in Seoul, S Korea) could meet and visit with the men. Our Area Adviser will be communicating back to BSF headquarters with her recommendation and assessment as to whether there is enough interest in Bangkok to launch into the next phase. The next phase is to begin registering men for a pilot class beginning in Sept or October.

I'd have to say that Roz (our Area Adviser) was very impressed with the men and their enthusiasm. However, we've had good attendance for quite sometime, so we are very encouraged that we will be (tentatively, waiting on final confirmation) be moving into the next phase of our work.

Praise the Lord for his work in the hearts of these men. The next step is to register 75 men for a 5 week pilot class, find enough leaders to run the class (10-15 men) and find a host church. As you can see, our task is Big, but our God is even BIGGER.

thank you for your prayers

Gary

Still teaching in prison

2009-03-20T20:18:00.002+07:00

I am still teaching in one of the men's prisons (for drug addicts) in Bangkok on Fridays. It's something I really enjoy doing. The men are respectful and eager to listen and learn. I've been teaching in Building 1 (which is 1 of 10 different buildings)that house the prisoners. The difference between building 1-10 is the length of sentences. Building One (where I teach) houses men with the shortest sentences and building 10 with the longest sentences.

The prisons house both Thai's and international prisoners, but I only teach the English International speaking prisoners. They are primarily Nigerians with few Peruvians and 1 Iranian. Generally, there are about 20+ men who attend.

The format is anything I want it to be, but so far, I begin the class with singing hymns; about 3-4 hymns. The hymnal I use is a "home made" hymnal (words only; no music) with only about 10 songs in it. A Baptist Missionary (Roy) gave me the hymnals to use. This is my favorite part because the men are not bashful about singing...and singing loud. Their voices carry throughout the prison area with such songs as "How great thou Art", "HOLY, HOLY, HOLY" or Amazing Grace. We are not always in tune (in fact mostly out of tune), but it is still a joyful noise that pleases the Lord. Even though we are in a class room, the windows and doors are always opened since there is not A/C. Then, I teach about hour and if we have time at the end, I just open it up to any questions they may have. Generally, the questions are random questions about the Bible, or God's will.

Today, I finished a 3 part series on Gideon (Judges 6-8) and prior to that I spent 2 weeks with Samson. I've never studied or taught about these Judges before, so it was good for me to learn more about them.

Right now, I'm trying to balance teaching on Fridays with taking Thai language classes which is M-F for 4 weeks. I took off today from Thai class so that I could teach.

Also, on Fridays, I go in the prison with a German man (Michael) who teaches the international prisoners in Building 5. Michael lives permanently in Bangkok and is married to a Thai. I've really enjoyed getting to know Michael who has a great heart for the Lord and is very passionate about his faith and sharing the gospel with others. He teaches the Bible twice per week in prison, and also to his employees at his factory.

thank you for your interest...
more later.

Another trip to Prison

2009-01-23T16:45:00.001+07:00

Today was my first trip to this prison. I joined a ministry group (2 Americans and 1 German) who have been teaching the Bible (in English) to a group of International prisoners at a prison north of Bangkok. The prisoners that we teach are primarily Nigerian, but there are a few other nationalities as well. There is another group of Bible teachers who speak Thai and teach the Thai prisoner population.

I had a great first experience. Mark Blanford (of the Christian Prison Ministry Foundation) and I had a group of 15 men in attendance. I did the teaching on Luke 14:25-35; The Cost of being a Disciple. The men were patient in listening, but at the end they had a lot of questions....some over the scripture we studied and some questions were just general questions about the Bible. I was encouraged to hear that some of the men were very passionate about Christ and studying the Bible.

It's definitely something I'll continue to do. As you may or may not know, I have been looking for some other ministry opportunities (other than BSF) to fill my time. At this point, I'd say this is something that suits me.

Singapore snap shots

2008-12-27T12:39:00.002+07:00

Christmas tree pic outside one of the many shopping malls in Singapore.

A view of downtown Singapore atop our tour bus
Cluadia and me atop the tour bus

Singapore Christmas gathering with Tulsa friends

2008-12-27T12:14:00.004+07:00

Small world...during our Christmas break in Singapore, we met up with some BSF friends from Tulsa who were visiting their daughter Megan, who lives and works in Singapore. Claudia and I knew Paul and Sarah Welch through our work with BSF in Tulsa. Paul, attends the mens' BSF class on Monday nights as a class member and Sarah is the Class Administrator for the Tuesday morning class. Their daughter Megan works for Crocs in Singapore. We met up with the Welch's on Christmas eve to attend a Christmas candle light service at the St Johns-St Margaret Church (an Anglican church). The service was from 10:30 pm to 12:30 am (Christmas morning).

Candle light service; picture of the congregation at St Johns -St Margaret

Early Christmas morning after the church service. From left to right:Gary, Caitlin, Claudia, Sarah Welch (background), daughter Jennifer (foreground), daughter Megan (background), Ed (foreground, Paul's father)and Paul Welch.

A Trip to Prison...

2008-12-17T20:38:00.001+07:00

Wanted to let you know that on Tuesday, I went with a local prison ministry group to teach English in a nearby prison for men. The men in the the low security prison (2000+) are primarily there for drug related arrests. Of course, while teaching English, you can share the Bible, your faith or other means to introduce the men to Christ.

I partnered with a Thai woman (Nelda) in the beginners English class of 5 young Thai men. However, during Nelda's teaching, I was given an opportunity to share my testimony and why I was in Thailand. Later in the class, Nelda asked the men their questions and thoughts about Christmas. What is it for? What does it mean?

Most of their questions or responses were about "gifts", Santa Claus (which is a gift giver) and the Christmas tree (ie. ever green or everlasting life). Nelda gave me an opportunity to answer their questions, so I began telling them (she translated) of God giving us the perfect "gift" of Christ and that Christ gave us the "gift" of new life through his death. And, as I ended, Nelda and I prayed with 2 young men to receive the "gift" of salvation through faith/belief in Jesus Christ.

How's that for an English class! Praise the Lord!

International School of Bangkok (ISB)

2008-12-08T22:23:00.003+07:00

Here are a few pics I took today of Caitlin's school.

Caitlin's ISBTouch Rugby team in action

2008-12-04T18:17:00.004+07:00

Today, Cailtin's touch rugby team for girls at ISB (International School of Bangkok) played today with an opposing International school. Here are a few pics.

Caitlin waiting to get in the game

Caitlin with team mate before the game

warm up drill

huddle with the coach (Joni) during the quarter break

Caitlin in game action

Christmas Thai style

2008-12-04T17:47:00.004+07:00

Christmas displays at a nearby shopping center. It doesn't feel like Christmas since today's high was 90 degrees F.

Notice Santa's sleigh has done away with reindeer and has various animals such as an elephant and a red-nosed giraffe.

Weekend Church Retreat; Nov 21-23

2008-12-01T09:48:00.005+07:00

Last weekend, Claudia, Caitlin and I attended a weekend retreat with the Chaengwattana Community church. We stayed near Khao Yai National Park and on Saturday we hiked in the Park on one of the many trails.

Cooler weather in Bangkok!

2008-11-13T21:26:00.002+07:00

Well it's about time! Beginning last Monday, we've had cooler and dryer weather. As they say back in Oklahoma...Yipeeee!

Since we've been in Thailand (since late August), the weather has been hot, humid and with a fair amount of rain. But, it now appears we are in a different weather pattern; dry, mostly clear, lower humidity and with moderately warm day time temperatures with cooler nights. Awesome!

I've actually worn jeans in the day time rather than my typical uniform of a T-shirt and shorts.

...stay tuned later for more weather updates from your on the ground foreign Asian meteorologist...
...reporting from Bangkok, Thailand for the Bangkok Weather Network....Gary Walthall

Meeting with Aaron and friend; an answer to prayer

2008-11-13T20:42:00.003+07:00

I'm having lunch tomorrow with a young man (Chinese) that I met at a our "small group" from church. His English name is Aaron (or Yibing).

Aaron is a fairly new Christian (about a year ago). God used his wife (Nink) to bring him to the Lord when they met in London. It's amazing how God works to reach people. Aaron, being from China, was an atheist, but now he proclaims the name of the Lord!

I've met with him before over lunch and explained what BSF is all about. He's really thirsty to know more about God's word and has indicated he wants to be apart of BSF when it starts. He's also apart of our Planning Committee to help us get a men's BSF class started in Bangkok.

He called me today and wants me to meet him for lunch and he also wants to bring a friend (co-worker) with him so I can tell him about BSF.

We (our group of BSF employees in Bangkok) had just prayed today that I would continue to connect with new men so that I could tell them about BSF. In fact, I voiced the prayer concern, and before we actually prayed, Aaron called me. I didn't immediately take his call, but silenced it until after prayer. So, when I called him back after prayer, Aaron told me he wanted to have lunch and to bring a friend so I could tell him about BSF.

What an answer to prayer!

God is good!

"Stupid hat day" in Bangkok, or Halloween Bangkok style

2008-11-04T20:18:00.007+07:00

This is what happens when you have too much time on your hands. Claudia and Caitlin talked me into doing this picture...against my better judgment. Oh well, it was good for a few laughs. These are some Chinese hats that Claudia bought at the Chatachuk market to actually use as wall decorations, but instead were put to some unintended use. Actually, the hats are multifunctional as they also can be used as a Halloween costume. Trick or Treat!
Sa-waa-dee!

FIRST MEN'S PLANNING COMMITTEE MEETING

2008-11-04T17:39:00.003+07:00

We met Monday night at Calvary Baptist Church for our first Planning Committee. Not including Mike and I, we had 9 of about 24 who have said they want to be a part of the planning committee. We will meet twice per month (1st & 3rd Mondays) through May, 2009. Our purpose is to build this core group of men so that when next September rolls around, we can begin the Pilot class phase by registering men for the class.

It's too early to tell who is really going to be committed on coming regularly, but we are encouraged by the number of men so far. Last night, the men who attended are all living permanently in Thailand with the exception of one man (standing next to me) who is doing ministry work in Bangkok and his home is in New Zealand.

The nations represented (excluding Mike and I) in this group are Japan(1), USA (1), Philippines (1), China (2), Thailand (3) and New Zealand (1).

Our prayers are:
God will increase our numbers
God will hold us together as a group
Each man will capture the VISION for BSF in Bangkok and will help us achieve that goal.

thank you for your support and prayers

Gary

BSF Men's Informational Meeting a Success

2008-10-21T12:47:00.005+07:00

Our scheduled Informational meeting on Monday night was a great success. The meeting was held at the Calvary Baptist Church of Bangkok and we were very encouraged to have 21 men in attendance. Praise the Lord!

As it turned out, most of the men in attendance were there because of their wives or friends in the Women's BSF class had told them about the meeting. Having an existing BSF women's class in Bangkok is definitely an advantage because men can actually see the "difference" a Bible study like BSF has had on someone they personally know.

We spent our time telling men about BSF and letting them know about the process of starting a BSF class.

For now, we are asking men to join us in a Planning Committee (our core group) to help us "pray and plan" on getting connected to other men and churches throughout Bangkok. Out of the 21 in attendance, we had 16 men who said they were willing to be apart of the Planning Committee. We will begin meeting on a regular basis on the 1st and 3rd Monday's of each month.

For the next several months (until May, 09) our goal is to continue to nurture and buildup this core group of men so that we will be ready to launch into the Pilot class phase (Sept, 09- May, 10). The bigger and stronger this core group, the greater chance of success.

thank you for your continue interest and prayers

Gary
Phil 4:13

A Day in the Life of Bangkok; ...Part II

2008-10-09T19:48:00.002+07:00

After our meeting, we all boarded the "tuk tuk" at Mike and Charlene's apartment and drove down the street to the end of the block. Now, it's lunch time!

On route, Claudia in the "tuk tuk"

Today, Melinda took us to a really good hamburger place called the "GARAGE." Melinda and Claudia are cleaning their hands with "wipes" and waiting for a good old fashion cheese burger!

Later on in the day, Gary riding on the back of a motorcycle heading home...we're weaving our way through traffic! Claudia took the more sane and safer route via the Sky Train.

A Day in the Life of Bangkok; ...or "Hi Ho, Hi Ho, it's off to work we go

2008-10-09T18:42:00.007+07:00

Thursday's is normally our day to meet with the other BSF FRA's (Foreign Resident Ambassadors)to pray for our success in Bangkok. We typically meet Mike and Charlene's apartment which is across town from where live, so it means off the the nearest Sky Train terminal (Chong Nonsi); about a 10-15 minute walk.

Claudia seated on the Sky Train on our way to Mike and Charlene's apartment.

After getting off the Sky Train , we are walking to the nearest corner to catch a motorcycle taxi to take us the final leg of our journey (about 1/4 to 1/2 mile down Soi 61). We pass by a local MacDonald's with Ronald MacDonald greeting customers in the traditional Thai way with hands clasped together called a wei(pronounced "way").

Melinda (the BSF teaching leader for the BSF women's class) on the motorcycle taxi. The cost for the 2 minute thrill ride is 10 baht (or about 30 cents US, well worth the cost).

Claudia on her way as well, with me following the 2 ladies on a 3rd motorcycle...And, off we go!!! Hang on!

This picture is the BSF FRA's in Bangkok. We are in Mike and Charlene's apartment. This is also evidence we all made it safe and sound. The picture from left to right is: Gary, Claudia, Melinda, Charlene and Mike(sitting on the ground).

Men's Retreat in Hua Hin; A Band of Brothers

2008-10-02T21:46:00.007+07:00

Last weekend, I attended a men's retreat with ECB (Evangelical Church of Bangkok)that was about 2 1/2 hours south of Bangkok in Hua Hin. While the resort we stayed in was a Golf and Spa Resort, we were a short distance to the Gulf of Thailand. It was a great retreat with 68 men in attendance. The retreat was a great way for me to connect with a lot of new men that I would have never seen or connected with just going to church on Sunday. Needless to say, I had a great time and the food was fabulous. I have already contacted several men since I've been back to talk with them more about BSF. I pray that my contacts with these men will bare fruit in terms of introducing them to BSF. Below are a few pics of the weekend

The entrance to Springfield Village Golf and Spa Resort

Pastor John Teschan leading the men with the theme of "A Band of Brothers"

A group shot of the men while listening to Pastor John

During Saturday afternoon, I took a break by the pool for some relaxation and swimming. Some of the men opted to play golf, others went to the nearby beach resort (a 15 minute van ride), but I chose to hang around the pool instead.

A day at the Chatuchak market

2008-09-20T22:00:00.005+07:00

Chatuchak market is open only on the weekend in northern Bangkok. If you can't find what you are looking for at Chatuchak, you probably didn't really need it. It's a huge market that sells everything from jewelry, pottery, home decor items, to antique buddhas (if that's your thing), hippie clothing (no kidding), pets of all kinds, textiles, antiques... I think you get the picture. Speaking of pictures, here are few pics of the day. I did go along this morning for a couple of hours, but after that, I bailed out and let Caitlin and Claudia enjoy the rest of the day on their own.
This is the Sky Train station near our apartment; Chong Nonsi.

Caitlin and Claudia are into "full contact" shopping. Fortunately, no one got hurt with this aggressive move...a move that she apparently learned well from her mother. Anyway...as I always say, "no blood, no foul."

a bunch of beautiful orchids

after a long day of shopping, it's time to come home. Claudia's probably thinking of either taking the Sky Train back home, or maybe the elephant taxi in the background. I'm not sure the elephants could carry the heavy load that Claudia is trying to bring home.

Apartment Pictures

2008-09-14T18:07:00.002+07:00

Our living room
living room

Master bedroom
Master Bedroom

Caitlin's room

Week 3: Assimilation improving & Getting Around "Thai style"

2008-09-13T20:14:00.000+07:00

At the end of week three we have now moved in our apartment...praise the Lord for that! It will take us awhile to really get settled in, but at least we have unpacked and hung up our clothes.

On the day we moved in (Sept 11), I knew our comfort level of being in Bangkok had improved when Melinda (who is an old pro in living in Bangkok; she's been here for 2 years) ordered 3 motorcycle taxis to save us a bit walking (about 1/2 mile). It was indeed quick and a cheap thrill ! It only cost 10 baht each or about 30 cents US money. On this particular day, the only casualty of speeding down the street and over a few speed bumps was Claudia's hair! Well, let me just say that the humid air and brisk ride on the back of a motorcycle was all Claudia need to add some volume to her hair. Just think about it...people pay good money for "volumizing shampoo" and Claudia did it for as little as 30 cents. LOL!

Well, that's all it took...just one trip on the back of a motorcycle and now we've done it several times since then. I guess we are getting braver day by day, or maybe we've just lost all common sense.

The problem with Bangkok is TRAFFIC! There are 10 million people in Bangkok and I think everyone drives a car plus about 5 million taxis. I've never seen traffic like it. And, if it rains (which it does often now that we are in the rainy season), the streets flood and you can imagine what that does to traffic. It puts a whole new meaning to the word "GRIDLOCK" in a Swamp!

Our modes of transportation varies depending on when, where and how fast we want to get there. The quick and easy way to get around if your not going but just a few blocks (less than a mile) is to take a TUK TUK (a small motorized type of golf cart) or a motorcycle taxi. The advantages of taking the motorcycle taxi is it's fast, and can go around cars (even in a traffic jam), but the obvious draw back is...it's not really that safe! I find myself praying more when I'm on the motorcycle but so far there have not been any accidents...just a close call or two.

Speaking of assimilation...Claudia is doing much better this week than last. I only say that because one evening last week that we were heading back to our apartment and walking down a busy sidewalk of vendors, cooking booths and along with hoards of people a small elephant(maybe about 5 foot tall) was passing by on the sidewalk with it's owner! The owner had food for sale that you could buy to feed the elephant as means of financial support. The elephant was so close to us that you could have easily reached out and touched it...if you dared. Or, if you weren't paying attention you could have been a casualty of an elephant "hit and run." I'm not sure when it comes to the law in Thailand in such matters, who has the legal "right of way?" So, as the elephant passed by I commented to Claudia about the elephant and she said, "what elephant? Where?" Things are, at times, so chaotic and busy and there are so many things to distract your attention, that you can, indeed, miss an elephant in your pathway. Enough said about that. Claudia is now on full elephant alert.

Pray for us...sounds like we need it! Thank you guys for your friendship and your prayers. Miss you guys. We'll keep in touch. Love you!

Gary

Moving next week; our new address plus more...

2008-09-07T19:14:00.000+07:00

After being in Bangkok for 2 weeks, we have finally found a permanent apartment. It's a spacious furnished 3 bedroom in the downtown area. Actually, we are in the same apartment building as Melinda Burnette (BSF teaching leader) who has been living in this apartment building for a year. So at least we know one neighbor in the building. We are pleased to have finally landed on something and very much look forward to moving in on Thursday Sept. 11 and getting out of our suitcases and getting settled.

Of course after moving in, Claudia will enjoy making our apartment feel more like home even though it's already fully furnished. Claudia's already scheming how to improve it by moving some furnisher around and she's already commented on how the lamp shades are too small for the lamps so I'm sure that will change as well. We still need to buy sheets, towels, dishes, etc, and of course, she will most likely add some "fresh flowers" to make it feel more like home. She's is awesome at making a home feel special. I'm looking forward to seeing it transform.

Our new address is:
Baan Thirapa
11 Soi Phra Pinijt Tung-Makamake
Apt 202
Sathorn, Bangkok 10120
Thailand

Cell: 084-349-6655 (Gary)
011-66-84-349-6655 (outside Thailand)
Cell: 084-349-6633 (Claudia)
011-66-84-349-6633 (outside Thailand)

Up coming this week, Tuesday Sept 9, the BSF Women's class will be starting for the new year. This year's study is "The life of Moses" (Exodus, Lev, Nu and Duet.) Claudia will be joining the leadership team as a childrens leader.

Also, this week Caitlin's school will be on holiday Thursday and Friday which will be a nice break for her. So as not to waste this "out of school" holiday, Caitlin will be going with a youth church group to Koh Ta Lu (an island) for a beach retreat Sept 11-13th! Sounds nice, but Caitlin has already informed her mother and I that they do not need us as student sponsors...too bad:(

Today (Sunday Sept 7) we visited the International Church of Bangkok which is located very near to our new apartment. We enjoyed the service and met some new people this morning. Upon arriving, Caitlin saw her math teacher at church. He's a member which is nice to know that he is a Christian (unlike our experience in Greece). Next Sunday, we plan to attend the Calvary Baptist Church. Hopefully, after 4 successive weekends of visiting different churches we can find a church home. This is just another step in getting settled in Bangkok.

I'll close for now and hopefully we'll write more next week to keep you up with what's happening.

Blessings

Gary

Week One

2008-08-31T20:24:00.000+07:00

Well, we have been in Bangkok for just over a week now.
I'm not sure how long I can blame this "deer in the headlights look" on jet lag,but for now,that's my story and I'm sticking to it!
After our unexpected overnight delays in both San Francisco and Tokyo, we arrived in Bangkok with our six over weight suitcases in tow. Mike met us at the airport and was invaluable in helping us from the start.

Our temporary housing situation is less than desirable... and has served as our motivation to find something newer and nicer... as soon as possible. We are working with two real estate agents...and have a couple of good options to choose from.

Caitlin has completed her first week of school at The International School of Bangkok. It appears that she will be able to compensate for the 12 days of school that she missed before we arrived. She has already met a couple of nice Christian girls...so things seem to be headed in the right direction.

In an attempt to find a church where we can worship and serve, we will visit each of the 4 English speaking Evangelical churches in the Bangkok area. Last week we attended the Anglican church with Melinda... and today we attended The Evangelical Church of Bangkok with Mike and Charlene. While at ECB this morning we actually met a man from Tulsa...now working for Chevron in Bangkok.

I attended our BSF Class workshop on Saturday... and am looking forward to the start of the new class year on September 9th. Gary and Mike will host the first men's prayer group meeting on September 15th.

The political situation here in Bangkok has taken an unexpected turn. What started out(five days ago)as a peaceful demonstration...has turned out bigger than expected and has included the demonstrators taking over several government buildings.We get our information by watching CNN or by reading the Bangkok Post(English Edition)but have not seen any of it first hand.

Thank you for your prayers and encouraging words...they are both important to us!

~Claudia~

Just arrived in Bangkok!

2008-08-23T07:44:00.000+07:00

Well, where do I start since I last wrote you from Greece back in June? Our lives have been a whirlwind of activity since we got back to the States. Besides planning for Erica's wedding (Aug 16) we also had to get ready for our next assignment with BSF in Bangkok, Thailand.

Well, that's all behind us now and we are currently in Bangkok as I write. We've spent our first night in our "temporary" apartment. I say temporary with an emphasis since the apartment really is less than desirable. It will certainly motivate us to find a more permanent solution quickly. The bad news is we had to pay 1 months rent upfront, but I pray we'll have something before the month is up.
"an empossing Thai statue in the Bangkok airport"

Our trip to Bangkok was filled with a few twists and turns. As it turned out, we finally arrived in Thailand on Friday afternoon rather than the scheduled Wednesday night. It's amazing how just one event changed all of the following events...like dominoes falling.

We spent 24 hours in San Francisco after missing our flight to Tokyo. Do you know what a terrible feeling it is to run up to the departure gate (after doing an "OJ Simpson" run through the airport and security) just to see our plane pulling away from the gate? I'd have to say we didn't handle this situation very well.

Our flight was delayed out of Chicago for 2 hours due to fog in SF. Anyway, we made the best of the situation and stayed in a nice hotel near the airport (the Westin) and then we took the BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit) down to Wharf where we had a nice meal. Claudia had a hamburger (of course no fish for her), I had Salmon and Caitlin ate the crab enchiladas (sounds strange but they were really good!). On our way back to the hotel, we took the trolley to the nearest BART and then had a good night in the hotel watching some of the Olympics.SF trolley down by the Wharf
Cailtin and I enjoying our ride on the trolley with our new pull-overs. It's cold in SF when the sun goes down.
Claudia & Caitlin in front of the Westin (San Francisco) before we left for Tokyo.

Just when we thought we were back on track heading to Tokyo/Bangkok, the flight to Tokyo went smoothly (10 hours and 15 minutes). However, the next flight (which was scheduled 2 hours leave after our arrival), was canceled due to mechanical problems. Definitely not good...not when we were trying to get to Bangkok as soon after the wedding to enroll Caitlin into school. Now it appears that she'll miss Thursday and Friday as well. So, off to another hotel...this time in Tokyo. United Air did provide for our transportation to and from the hotel and scheduled us to Bangkok the following day at 11 am on Thai Air. Tokyo hotel; Claudia & Caitlin in their Japanese robes provided by the hotel

Right now, we're just trying to get acclimated to our new situation. It looks like Caitlin will indeed be in school on Monday. And, we will begin earnestly looking for a new apartment.

Pray for our smooth transition to this new culture.
pray for Caitlin to somehow make up for lost time in school (she's 12 days behind).
pray we will locate the place/apartment God has for us quickly.

This is another step of faith that God has chosen for us. Will write more later.

love and blessings

Gary

Leaving Athens for another destination... yet to be determined

2008-06-23T22:24:00.000+07:00

Well, it's sad to say but we are, indeed packing up and leaving Athens. As I write this entry, we are now back in the US and will soon receive another assignment from BSF.

The sudden conclusion to our 10 month effort in Greece has been such a shock to us. After a post pilot class evaluation, BSF HQ informed us that that they wanted to shut down our efforts in Athens and to come back to the US for debriefing and to discuss a potential reassignment to another country.

At the conclusion of the 5 week pilot class with hopes of beginning a Fall class (9 month study of Moses), there were not sufficient leaders to commit for the Fall class. Besides Donna and Claudia, it takes 5-10 women to lead a class. Yet, at the end of the pilot class there were no women who were both qualified and willing to commit to leading the class in the Fall.

So, within 1 week of finding out about return to the USA, God provided a way for us to leave within such a short time frame. This was an absolute miracle in how He worked.

There are so many feelings right now that it's hard to sort through them all. We leave Greece with a sense of sadness and grieving, but we know that God will bless our efforts that we made while in Greece. This is what I am confident of... what ever good work God started in Athens through our efforts... he will carry it to completion. (Phil 1:6)

But right now, it time for us to focus forward and to trust our Lord and Savior for the next step and the next country of his choosing. Philippians 3:13-14 is particularly meaningful at this point in our lives..."Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize..."

We will be going to BSF HQ in San Antonio July 8-10 where we will spend time debriefing and accepting our next God size challenge. As soon as we find out what our next assignment we will post it so you can know how to pray for us.

Mens Prayer group; The latest lineup

2008-05-20T12:07:00.000+07:00

from left to right; Gary (USA), Austin (Nigeria), Sam (Nigeria), Guenter (USA), Tosh (Nigeria) and Nik (Greece).

This group of prayer warriors are praying that God will cause to bloom flowers from the rocks...praying for "spiritual" rain to water the seeds we're planting.

Bible Study Fellowship Introduced in Athens

2008-05-05T03:41:00.000+07:00

After years of praying and months of intense preparations,BSF will finally make it's debut in Athens on Tuesday, May 13! The evening women's class will begin with a five week pilot study of the book of Philippians. Classes will be held at the Second Greek Evangelical Church on Tuesday evenings ( May 13,20,27 and June 3,10).

Current prayer requests include,but are not limited to:
1. Lives will be changed through the study of Philippians.
2. God will provide all qualified leaders still needed.
3. Holy Spirit will continue to draw women to BSF.

Thanks for your continued prayers!
~Claudia~

Flowers Blooming from the Rocks! Only God can do this!

2008-05-05T02:10:00.000+07:00

When Dr. Chuck and Linda came to Athens, Guenter and I took them to Mars Hill, next to the Acropolis. Mars Hill was where the Apostle Paul preached his sermon to the Athenians about the "unknown God." (Acts 17:22-31) Note the picture below.
After Dr. Chuck had prayed for Guenter and I and we were headed down for lunch, it dawned on me how significant this particular view of Mars Hill was...a few flowers growing out of the rocks. What a strange but clear picture of what we face in Athens. The ground in Athens is very hard (spiritually speaking) and yet, by God's grace and power, God can cause flowers to bloom out the rock. Only God can do such a thing as this!

We continue to pray God will plant spiritual seeds in the cracks of the rocks, water it with spiritual rain and then flowers will bloom. Please partner with us to pray for flowers to bloom from the rocks in Athens.

Gary

Encouragement from BSF HQ

2008-05-05T01:46:00.000+07:00

Dr. Chuck Musfeldt and wife Linda on tour of Scotland, Athens and Rome, visited us in Athens on April 25-28. Dr. Chuck, a self-described Barnabus, was exactly that for us. They were both here to encourage us and Dr. Chuck also visited the men's prayer group on Monday, April 28.
Dr Chuck and Linda at one of our favorite places to eat Kababs at the Plaka.

from left to right: Claudia (isn't she beautiful in blue?), Dr. Chuck, Linda, Donna and Guenter. Donna and Guenter Wadewitz are our co-partners in Christ and are also here in Athens with us to help establish BSF.

Dr. Chuck, Sam (Nigerian), Gary and Tosh (Nigeria)

Dr. Chuck, Sam, Guenter (North Corolina; my co-partner in Greece) and Tosh

Having dinner at our apartment on Monday night. After dinner, we had a special time of prayer and words of encouragement.

More pics of our day at Oia (ee-a), Santorini

2008-05-03T17:12:00.001+07:00

The sun setting on a really good day on Santorini.

A door to paradise

A breath taking view of beauty...and the background of the water is not bad either.

Waiting for the sun to set. Oia is one of the most popular places go to view the sunset. As the sun was setting, we needed to put on our jackets...it was getting cool. The day reminded me of California; low 70's in the day, but when the sun goes down it's really cool.

Pictures of Oia

2008-05-03T16:56:00.000+07:00

A restaurant facing the west which provides a great sunset view while dinning. Reservations are required. Unfortunately, we didn't have reservations...too bad :(

Probably one of the most photographed churches of Santorini.

Caitlin and I just chillin...and glad we're here on Santorini.
Silk anyone? Just one of the many quaint little shops of Oia.

If you lived on this hillside of Oia, how would you give directions for someone to get to your house?

The Trek from the Sea to the Summit of Oia, the famous city of Santorini

2008-05-03T16:13:00.000+07:00

Did I say that the trek from the ocean to Oia was up a mountain? Seems like a great place to place a city. So, where's the elevator or tram to the top? Oh, I forgot, were in Greece. The only way to the top was to do it the old fashion way...walk or see your nearest "donkey dealer" for the fastest way up!
It was fun and a bit nerve wracking as well as the donkey's begun the trek up to the top of the mountain.
I'm not sure how you say "giddie up" or "whoaaa" to a donkey in Greek. No instructions were given and I guess none were needed as the donkeys seem to know where they were going...uphill on the switch back trail to the top! The only instinct I had was just to hang on!
Claudia...wondering what she's got herself into. "Whose idea was this?" Claudia's one concern before getting on this donkey was whether the donkey was the right color to go with her outfit. Good choice...white is a great neutral and of course, it's after Easter when white is definitely fashionable.
Up we go! Notice I was more intent of hanging on than posing for the picture.
Caitlin near the summit on her trusty steed (or donkey). Caitlin's feeling pretty comfortable at this point...now that the ride was over.
Finally, to the summit...and what a view!

Trip to the Greek Island of Santorini

2008-05-03T14:24:00.000+07:00

While Caitlin was still on spring break, we decided to take a short (3 day, 2 night) visit to the beautiful and probably most famous Greek Island. We took a fast ferry on Wednesday morning (boat left at 7 AM) and arrived 4 hours later in Santorini. Upon arriving, we were hurried away (via a van)from the port up over the steep mountain to the back side of the Island to Kamari beach. It's famous for it's black beaches. At this time of the year (late April, early May), the island is just beginning to awaken to the onslaught of summer and the busy tourist season. Actually, about half of of the small hotels and some of the shops/restaurants are still closed. Everything on Santorini should be fully going by the end of May.

In our short stay, we did some sun bathing at the hotel upon arriving on Wednesday, then later that evening we took a cab to the capital of the Island (Fira) for some shopping and dinner.

Thursday, was a busy day. We took a harbor boat tour that took us to the Volcano for a 2 hour visit, then to a brief stay at a nearby island that had hot springs, to another local island(Thirissia)for lunch and then to Oia (ee-a)for to view a beautiful sunset.
Our boat for the tour of the Caldera volcano

All aboard who's going aboard. Caitlin and Claudia aboard ship. Of course, Claudia has already taken her dramamine. But, as it turned out, the harbor was smooth and the time on the boat was very limited as we hopped from island to island.

Atop the Volcano over looking near by Santorini and the city of Oia. I don't know who the guy in the back ground is? He's just happy is survived the climb to get to the top.

Our ship awaiting our return along with Captain Jack Sparrow's ship the Black Pearl as well. "Yo Ho, mate!"
The view from the Volcano summit over looking the city of Oia. Oia was our last stop for the afternoon where we watched the sunset.

Aigina part II; more pics

2008-04-20T14:18:00.000+07:00

Caitlin in the water. The water was a bit cool for my taste, but it made for a good picture.
Claudia and Caitlin sunbathing. I just sat in the shade and walked around the town a bit. Actually, the beaches are really bad and there are only a couple of places where there is sand. Aigina is not a place you'd recommend for the beaches even though the water is beautiful. There are other places on the island you can go and explore, so the beaches may be better there, but I'm not sure?

Sunset before we left the island at 8 pm. Saying good bye to a really nice day.

A Day on Aigina; a Nearby Greek Island

2008-04-20T13:21:00.000+07:00

Saturday,April 19,on a beautiful day (72 degrees and sunny), we went to a nearby island for the day. The Island is Aigina (pronounced as Egg-ee-na). We took the fast hydrofoil boat which took about 40 minutes so it's very convenient in terms of time. We just spent the day doing some shopping, eating (a light lunch and dinner) and some sun bathing. We left the island at 8 pm as the sun was setting. It was a really nice and relaxing day away from the craziness and business of Athens.
Sitting on an old abandoned and certainly not seaworthy boat on the beach.
What would a trip to the Island be without some shopping at one of the local shops. Actually, this shop was run by a lady from Southern California.
In case you are hungry for something really adventuresome, a really popular delicacy in Greece is Octopus. Yum Yum? I can't really say if it's good or bad since we haven't tried it. I guess we weren't that hungry at the time. But, my guess is it tastes like "chewy chicken" at best.
Caitlin captures a moment of indecision..."now which way do we go?"
Lunch on the water (literally...that's water right behind us in the picture). We had for lunch some tasty wraps (chicken, Ceasar and Santa Fe)...sounds like we're in the US rather the Greece.

London trip part III; Chartwell (Winston Churchhill's house)

2008-04-16T14:36:00.000+07:00

Friday morning we went to Chartwell to view Churchill's home. After a couple of hours, we went to the nearby village and had a great lunch at a French restaurant. The English weather during the weekend was a bit unpredictable; some sunshine, some rain showers (which didn't last long), and some sleet (no kidding), but mostly cloudy and cool(in the 50's).
The background is a view from Churhchill's house overlooking the English countryside.

A view of Chartwell(from the back); Churchill's house

London trip Part II: A Walk in the Park

2008-04-16T14:10:00.000+07:00

On Sunday afternoon, we took a walk in the nearby park or preserve with their dogs... a favorite past time of the Loves and their friends. Brits, like Americans, are such dog lovers.

Claudia and the ladies walking down the country lane in the park preserve. Claudia is in the dark blue jacket(second on the left). Andrew and Collin are in the foreground with the dogs.

Andrew and Belinda Love (and their Black Lab "Dilly") along with Claudia and I. This was at the end of our walk and just before it began to rain.

Back from London: Party Pics from Saturday night

2008-04-16T12:34:00.001+07:00

We had a "brillant" (as they would say in England) time at Andrew's 50th Birthday celebration. The party was at the Country Club of London where 70 of Andrew's friends gather for a wonderful evening. The party started out with a time of cocktails and socializing, then dinner was served and of course, the evening was rounded out by dancing to a live band. A great time was had by all.

The only sad part was our friends from the States (Charlie and Katherine Pennington and Bob Canada and Helen Inbody) couldn't make it to London. American Airlines had canceled their flight from Tulsa to Chicago (along with 1000 other flights in the US for FAA wiring inspections). We were really sad they were not able to make it because they missed a great time of fellowship and fun.
What more can I say about these two beauties! Claudia and Caitlin both were "Belle's of the Ball."

Caitlin and good friend Felicity Love

Dancing the night away! That's a bit of an exaggeration, but we did dance a few dances.

The American invasion of England...for a Black Tie Party!

2008-04-07T22:57:00.000+07:00

Beginning Thursday, Americans will be entering England from the East and West for the big gala event of Andrew Love's 50th birthday party. We will be leaving Thursday to spend the weekend with the Love 's, but we will also be reuniting with good friends from back home in Tulsa as well. Charlie and Katherine Pennington as well as Bob Canada and Helen Inbody will also be arriving in London for the big event as well. It will be good to see our friends from the States. We are looking forward to it.
As soon as we return on Monday the14th, I'll post some pictures of our reunion and party.
more later...

Americans in Greece gone Irish

2008-04-07T01:36:00.000+07:00

After church we ate at this Irish Pub in the Plaka. It's a nice get away from the Greek culture. They speak English and the serve the typical "fish and chips" that you find in England.

Random Sheep Sighting!

2008-04-05T14:24:00.001+07:00

Just when you thought it was safe to walk home from the metro to our apartment, this is what we saw...a heard of sheep heading our way. It's hard to imagine this scene since Athens is a densely populated city of 4 million people and very few grassy areas for sheep to graze unless it's at a nearby city park.
They were last seen heading toward the highway! I guess you could say the traffic in Athens is really "baaahd!"

Greek language classes and the Gospel

2008-04-02T20:29:00.000+07:00

Well, as it turned out I did enroll in Greek Level II. And, in hind sight, I am glad because I've learned a lot. Actually, due to the intensity of the class (3 hours every other day), I'm certainly not absorbing 100% (maybe 50%?). At this point, I have 2 more weeks then I'm done (April 17). We've covered in 14 weeks (level I & II) of Greek what most people would study in 2 years. Now, comes the time to let some of this soak in, use some of it in everyday life. It's my hope, one day, to be able to speak the language, but that seems along way off right now. But, of course, Rome wasn't built in a day and the Greek language won't be conquered in 14 weeks. So, patience will be needed.

In my 2 classes, I've met people from all over the world; Ukraine, Holland, Sweden, England, Romania (via California and now in Athens), Germany, Poland and one the other American. And, with the exception of the one American (who is doing ministry work in Athens), all of these people are "lost and blinded" to the TRUTH of Christ and God the Father. So, what am I to do? What light will I be to these "lost" people in my class? Will I stay silent while these men and women are doomed down a path toward destruction? Has God providentially placed me in such a time and place as this?

As it has turned out, God has provided me opportunities to talk privately with several of them over coffee (after class) about Christ, God, creation, salvation, the Gospel and my own personal testimony. It's been amazing because I see God's hand at work when I find myself having coffee with them alone in conversation. So, I take the opportunity to "turn" the conversation toward spiritual matters. In the everyday occurrence of going to language class, God has given me much more to do...that is, to speak about HIM. All I can do is to give them the words of truth and let God do the real work of salvation; to cause the blind man to see.

And, so it is, my Greek class has a bit of a spiritual twist to it. It's what keeps me going back for more...to see who God is going to place in my path.

My prayer has been for God to use me and for God to continue placing people in my path to speak about the hope that I have in Christ.

Gary

It's No "April's Fool" Joke...the Women's Pilot to start in May!

2008-04-02T02:10:00.000+07:00

Sorry that I haven't been updating the blog, but actually we've been in a holding pattern waiting on finding enough qualified "leaders." It appeared that all was lost and that there would be no Pilot class this spring, but BSF headquarters has decided to allow the women to start the Pilot class without a children's program (which means 4 less leaders to obtain). Normally, BSF classes offer a full children's program for the evening classes which mean the women can bring their school age children with them. However, in the interest of not losing the momentum with women already registered, BSF has given Donna and Claudia the green light to START!

As it stands now, the 4 week training for the leaders will begin very soon and the 5 week Pilot in Philippians may start as early as May. Praise the Lord!

thank you for all your prayers!

Gary

It's Greek to me...part II

2008-02-14T22:16:00.000+07:00

It was in November of last year that I embarked on an ambitious language course in Greek. The class was 5 days a week for 3 hours/day. As it turned out, this was way "too ambitious" and they were moving too fast for me. I lasted for "2 days" before, as they say, "I saw the writing on the wall" and realized I needed to go to plan B.

So, as of mid January, I have now been enrolled in the same Level I Greek class but it meets MWF for 7 weeks. I must say, it is still challenging, but I have been able to manage it better. I now have 6 more (out of 20) classes to go before I'm done! Yippee! I'll have to assess at the end (they'll test us to see our level of proficiency) whether I'll go to Level II, or repeat Level I, or just take a breather. I must say that learning a new language at 56 is not the easiest thing I've ever done. There are much younger students in my class that are picking it up much easier, but Greek is also their 3rd or 4th language. That is such a European thing.

Speaking of language classes, Claudia, Guenter & Donna Wadewitz now are taking Greek lessons with a private tutor that comes to the apartment. It's a much more relaxed pace and is totally geared to their level and pace of learning. They meet on Tues/Thurs for an hour and half.

Gary (Γκαρυ)

The Latest BSF Women's update: Waiting on the Lord

2008-02-14T21:47:00.000+07:00

I'm sorry we haven't had any new updates in awhile, but for the last month the status of our work really hasn't changed much. The women have 60+ women registered, but the key now is to find enough qualified and willing women to start the class. Donna Wadewitz (the women's teaching leader) has an interview on Tuesday with a young woman for the children's supervisor position. Pray that this interview will go well and that she will be qualified and willing.

The positions yet to be filled are:
1 Children's supervisor
1 Assistant Children's supervisor
1 Secretary
2 Discussion leaders

The weeks are running by fast and we have been praying diligently for the Lord to bring forward the right women who can and will serve. Once the leaders are in place, there is 4 weeks of training of the leaders before the 5 week pilot class in Philippians can begin. And, the pilot class has to be finished by the middle of May so that leaves us with a potential deadline of middle March to have all the leaders in place.

We could use all the prayers we can get. This certainly has not caught the Lord by surprise and I know he his always working. We pray for his will be done and for his perfect timing...even though it may not be within our time frame. So, our job now is to trust in the Lord and wait!

Thank you for your prayers,

Gary and Claudia

Men's BSF Prayer group

2008-01-09T04:50:00.000+07:00

Every Tuesday night we meet to pray for the success of BSF in Athens. Here are the faithful members of our men's prayer group. From left to right: Guenter Wadewitz (USA), Dr. Tosh Adeleke (Nigeria), Gary (USA), Sam Onuoha (Nigeria) and Tony (aka Shahin) Eghbalian (Iran).

While the numbers of men who join us each week vary, these men above are very faithful to come each week. During tonight's short Bible thought, we talked about Daniel 1:8; "Daniel resolved not to defile himself..." Since this was the 1st week of 2008, it was appropriate to talk about new years "resolutions." As a result of Daniels "resolve" he was protected, blessed and used by God. This can be applicable to us as a prayer group if we are "resolved" (with firm determination) to be faithful in our calling to serve Him in this "good work."

Our prayer requests for the men's group:
1. "Resolved" in our faithfulness...even if it takes a long time to establish BSF
2. Patience for the group
Rom 8:25 "But if we hope for what we do not yet have, we will wait for it patiently."
3. Additional men to join us in this "good work" God has prepared in advance for us to do.

Your prayers are greatly needed and appreciated!

Blessings go to the Faithful!

Gary

Update: Women's Prayer Group

2008-01-08T03:50:00.000+07:00

God is doing a great work in Athens, Greece !

For almost two years, a group of women known as the Bible Study Fellowship Womens' Prayer Group, met weekly and prayed that God would provide Athens with an established BSF Bible study.And now...in His perfect will... God is answering the prayers of those faithful women.
In September, the eight members of the prayer group began to invite other women to small group gatherings called "BSF presentations". Presentations are informational gatherings where guest are introduced to BSF and given the opportunity to register for a BSF study. Between October 24th and December 4th, 17 presentations were held in and around the Athens area. A total of 54 women registered for the Philippians pilot study. As we return from the holidays and begin to refocus on the task of starting this new BSF class, I would like to ask for your prayer support in some specific areas.
1. Gods' provision of more women who will register for the Philippians pilot study.
2. Gods' provision of a host church... where the class will meet.
3. Gods' direction in identifying and training class leadership.
4. Gods' perfect timing in starting the class.

Thank you so much for your continued interest and prayer support.
~Claudia~

Shake, Rattle and Roll...Athens hit by earthquake

2008-01-08T02:00:00.000+07:00

Sunday morning, January 6, we were awakened at 7:20 am with the bed and house shaking. We were a bit in a "fog" about what was happening, but it didn't take long to figure out the whole apartment was shaking. Fortunately, and thankfully, it didn't last long and there was no damage. Below I've posted a news article stating the quake was a magnitude 6.5 and was felt over all of Greece and part of Italy. The epicenter was about 150 km (about 90+ miles) SW of Athens.
Claudia, immediately after the shock, said that the fist thing that came to her mind was how Powerful God was to shake the earth like that. God is indeed so powerful! What a reminder it was of how small we really are and how Powerful HE his.

Praise and thanks to Him no one was hurt.

Gary

http://considerations.wordpress.com/2008/01/06/earthquake-in-greece/

Happy New Year (Καλη' Χρονια'!)...Just returned from London

2008-01-04T02:42:00.000+07:00

The day after Christmas (after Erica left for the States) we boarded a plane for London to spend some time with our newly found European friends. Actually, we met the Loves' in Tulsa last Christmas who were visiting for the holidays. In a very short period of time we have become really good friends.

As part of our trip, we flew through Germany so we could get our passport stamped in Germany rather than Greece. It just keeps the Immigration officers more confused as to our status in/out of Greece. As it turned out, the trip back through Germany was a uneventful and a success. We now have 90 more days before we'll make another trip outside of Greece.

What's more English than eating "fish & chips" on a park bench in a quaint little English beach community? The above picture was taken during our outing with the Loves' to the North Sea coastline where we took a wonderful (but cold) walk on the beach. We then had a bite to eat before heading back to the Love's house. The couple we are with are Andrew and Belinda Love who live to the north of London in Brentwood (about an hour+ northeast of London).

PS. Doesn't Andrew look so English...and I look so American! Next time we go to London, I need to get a cap like his to blend in better. The only problem is when I open my mouth...then it's a bit obvious I'm not British (ha!)

Dinner at the Loves' with some our new British friends. The dinner party was where each couple (not with your spouse) prepared a different course of the meal. It was a great success and a lot of fun. From left to right in the picture; Carol, Ian, Jo, Andrew, Belinda, Collin and Claudia (still wearing her cooking apron).

Caitlin and Felicity before riding trail bikes in the English countryside.

Merry Christmas! (Καλα Χριστουγεννα!) The Walthall Family in Athens for Christmas

2007-12-20T15:48:00.000+07:00

Our family on a cold Sunday afternoon at the Acropolis

It's been a real delight to have all of our family in Athens for the Christmas holidays. After a few anxious moments on leaving the US for Athens (at the onset of the "ice storm" throughout the midwest) Erica, Tara & Isaac made it safely to Athens December 11.

Have a blessed Christmas!
Merry Christmas! (Καλα Χριστουγεννα!)

Thankful to be Home (Athens) again from Bulgaria

2007-11-24T21:17:00.001+07:00

As you can see, the train cabins were extremely small... cozy, rather.

With nothing else to do and nowhere else to go, we settled for eating a snack in our bedroom/kitchen/dining room/living room.

Mom and Dad and I at our Thanksgiving dinner. It was no Turkey and Dressing, but we were still Thankful.

Dad and I took a walk around the Hotel complex; it was a very nice area.

These are some trees that we thought would be perfect for Christmas trees. Unfortunately, we couldn't bring them home...

Mom just before we checked out of our hotel.

Passing the time while waiting to go to the train station.

Mom and I are new best friends, and I explained to her that "this is what best friends do" (take pictures of themselves)

Me eating dinner... ha ha

Dad eating dinner

On the way home, Mom passed the time by listening to Christmas music on her ipod, and playing a game of Sudoku.

Praise Him...God opened the door! We are back from Sofia, Bulgaria

2007-11-24T15:42:00.000+07:00

"All Aboard!"

Well, to say the least, we are glad to be back in Athens with our new 90 day tourist visa stamp in our passports! We left for Bulgaria late Wednesday night (11 pm) and arrived in Sofia 14 hours later in a "fog." Literally, it was foggy, but also we were a bit "foggy" our selves after spending a good bit of that time on the train sleeping. I don't know what it was (maybe the dramamine we took), but it seemed like we had a tough time waking up and staying awake.

I'd have to say that Sofia, under the "fog" of day or night, was a depressing place. We didn't get to see much of the city except by way of taxi from the train station to our hotel which was located on the outskirts of Sofia...about a 15 minute taxi ride. Supposedly, Sofia has mountains near by, but the fog prevented us from seeing across the street, much less to the distant mountains. We had heard of "stories" and "warnings" of Bulgaria so we just stayed in our hotel for the next 24 hours or so until we got back on the train Friday afternoon at 5:30 pm...again in the darkness and disguise of "fog."

However, when we got to the Hotel, we were pleasantly pleased. Actually, it was hotel/sports club with a beautiful heated indoor pool that the Wadewitz's took advatange of . For our evening supper, we ate at the hotel restaurant which also turned out for a nice meal for everyone. I was, of course, hoping for turkey and dressing, but I settled for beef stroganof over rice instead. And, even though there was no pumkin pie to be had in Bulgaria, we did not let that deter us from sampling some of Bulgaria's finest deserts. "Sweet deserts" translates well in any language!

On our return train trip...before we reached the Greece border, I must say I was a bit apprehensive about crossing back over into Greece. Would they stamp our passports? Would it go smoothly for us as it had gone for others we know who have recently made this same trip? I thought I would continue reading a book I had started while on this trip to pass the time away instead of "fretting." The book I was reading was "Created for Commitment" by Ms Johnson (founder of Bible Study Fellowship) and while perched on my bunk on the train, I opened the book to the next chapter. It was the chapter concerning her calling by God to go to China. The scripture was;
Rev. 3:8 "I know thy works; behold I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it; for thou has a little strength, and has kept my word, and not denied my name."
It was as if God had spoke..."I have set before you an open door and no man can shut it."

I showed Claudia and Caitlin the verse and we all praised his name for his faithfulness and his provision...God was going to "open the door" to Greece for us! What a relief! What an honor it is serve such a God as this.

So, we are glad to be back in Athens to say the least. God is faithful!

talk with you later...

serving the Lord with gladness,

Gary and Claudia Walthall

Gorgeous Greek Sunset

2007-11-19T22:18:00.000+07:00

Monday, November 19, 2007

The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands.
Psalm 19:1

Fact is stranger than fiction...Spending Thanksgiving in Bulgaria? Nov 22-23

2007-11-15T17:54:00.001+07:00

How do you say "p u m p k i n p i e" in Bulgarian? Ha ha! Yes, we are going to spend Thanksgiving in Bulgaria. I guess it's no stranger spending Thanksgiving in Bulgaria than Greece. The problem is... Neither country will have pumpkin pie and turkey and dressing!

Just wanted to let you know what's up for next week...we are schedule to leave the country for a few days because our 90 day tourist visa is about to expire. So, we've decided to take an overnight train from Athens to Sofia, Bulgaria arriving Nov 22 (Thursday) in Bulgaria. We will stay one night in a hotel and then return to Athens November 23/24. On our train trip, we will be in a family cabin which has sleeping berths for 3. From what we've heard they are comfortable and cozy.

Why Bulgaria? Good question. We had earlier talked about going to Albania via a flight to Corfu, Greece and then taking a ferry ride to Albania for the day. As we considered the potential risk of the ferry not running due to weather/high winds, it seemed a bit risky. It's not that unusual of weather delays happening with the ferries. Additionally, we know some people who have recently made a couple of successful "turn-around" trips to Bulgaria (ie ministry people who work for Campus Crusades), so we decide on the "sure" thing...especially for our first "turnaround" trip.

Anyway, when you're sitting down next Thursday for a great Turkey dinner, just think of us. We'll probably be eating Bulgaria's finest "goulosh." Ha! Ha! By the way, what kind of food do they eat in Bulgaria? Maybe we'll come back with some good Bulgarian recipes that we can share with you. LOL

But, on a serious note... you could pray for us in this manner...
1. pray for our safety. Bulgaria is known to be a bit on the rough side.
2. pray that our return trip back into Greece will go smoothly (ie. that they will stamp our passports without noticing we have not been out of the country for 90 days.)

Praise to the Lord for, "He will not let your(our) foot slip-- he who watches over you (us) will not slumber." (Ps 121:3)

Gary

PS. when we get back from Bulgaria, I hope to post some pics and give you an update on our trip

Men's prayer group UPDATE

2007-11-15T16:03:00.000+07:00

God continues to amaze me. Our prayer group meets on Tuesday nights and because it was raining I thought it might keep some of the men from coming. At this point, I would say I do not have a good feel as to who is really going to be "firm" in their commitment to come each week. The prayer group(or, planning committee) is still very much a work in progress so it's hard to predict who will come or not. At 7pm there was just 3 of us, but shortly after, 3 more men came...then, 2 more...then, 1 more. By about 7:30 we had 9 men show up and three of those were "1st timers." Praise the Lord for his provision in bringing these men to us.

There is one man in our group (an Iranian named Shahin; aka Tony) that has been so instrumental in bringing men to our group. In two weeks, he has brought to the group 6 Iranians who profess Jesus Christ as their Savior and have converted from Islam to Christianity.

I must say, due to the complexion of the group (3 Americans, 1 Nigerian and 5-7 Iranians)that communication at times is a bit difficult. The Iranians speak English to varying degrees...some good and some not so good. I did spend some additional time explaining to the new men about BSF. However, due to the language barrier in terms of "complete" understanding, it was probably helpful to "repeat" the basic information about BSF and our purpose as prayer group.

Tuesday night we did pray as a group for BSF and for some personal things as well. It was a great night to see these men...from so very different cultures, praying for a common cause...praying for the "good work" God has called us to do for Him. I find it amazing how I can feel such a bond and connection with complete strangers except to know that we are all "brothers in Christ" and that we are indeed, "united" in Christ.

Here are some of the prayer requests that we prayed...
1. MORE MEN... to join us in our prayer group. More men from different cultures (ie. Africans, Indonesians, Philippinos, Americans, Asians and GREEKS, etc).

2. VISION...to see the "big picture" of BSF and what it can be in the future and what it can mean for Athens. Pray that men will see the "value" of BSF.

3. GOD'S TIMING/WISDOM... wisdom to know when to begin presentations/introductions

4. STRENGTH/ENDURANCE/PATIENCE...any "good work" will require all of these; strength, endurance and patience. Pray for an encouraging and positive spirit in all things.

will write more later...
thank you for checking our blog and when you get a chance, please pray for our success.

Serving joyfully in Athens

Gary

Mens' Prayer group growing...An Iranian Connection

2007-11-07T03:24:00.000+07:00

It's Tuesday night and I just got home from a long day. The men's prayer group met tonight and we had a 5 men come (plus Guenter & me)! Praise the Lord for his abundant provision! Two weeks ago our 1st prayer group meeting consisted of 1 man (Sam from Nigeria). But, last week Guenter and I met with Tony (aka Shahin) along with his friend Shahram to talk with them about BSF and about our prayer group. They are both from Iran and have converted from Islam to Christianity. Tony, a vibrant and outgoing believer, brought with him tonight 3 more men to our prayer meeting! We were so thrilled to see the Lord at work by bringing to us Christian converts from Iran. Thank you so much for your prayers back home. Prayer really is the answer to this "good work" that the Lord has prepared in advance for us to do. (Eph 2:10).

Athens is a very diverse culture with many foreigners; Africans, Indonesans, Filipinos, Iranians, etc. We still have much work to do, but we pray the Lord will help us connect with the right people/leaders among these various cultural groups and that they will be drawn to BSF. I believer tapping into these various ethic groups will be key to our success. Only through prayer and by God's hand and provision, can these various groups (normally separated) come together under one roof to study God's word. I pray it will happen.

joyfully serving the Lord in Athens,

Gary

It's Greek to me!

2007-11-02T20:33:00.000+07:00

Shhhh! Is he asleep or, just resting his eyes?

No, I'm studying modern Greek(or at least will be in the near future). I'll be taking Greek language classes beginning Monday for 4 weeks (Nov 5-30)at the Athens Center near downtown. Classes meet M-F from 1-4 pm. So, I'll be busy for the next 4 weeks. I've been in the country for over 2 months now and all I can say is "hello" and I can order Coca Cola, but that's about it. So, it's time for some more serious effort in learning the language. Wish me luck!

2007-10-31T15:42:00.000+07:00

Family pic on Mars Hill; the location where the Apostle Paul is believed to have preached in Athens and declared to them, "For as I walked around and looked carefully at your objects of worship, I even found an altar with this inscription: TO AN UNKNOWN GOD. Now what you worship as something unknown I am going to proclaim to you." Acts 17:23

Eating in Athens...yum yum!

2007-10-31T01:29:00.000+07:00

These are Gyros that we ate for lunch at a fast food restaurant called Πιτα Παν (Pita Pan)

This is a traditional Greek dish called Μουσακας (Mousaka). It is made with potatoes, eggplant, ground meat, and one more mystery ingredient (ha ha).

This is a meatball dish that was served in earthenware with a tea light underneath to keep it warm. We thought this was quite a unique and interesting presentation. Vaguely resembling a volcano, Gary says, "Stand back! It's gunna blow!" (ha ha)

Here is a table which consists of kabobs, which is pita bread with sausages, tomatoes, and onions. The white sauce that you see on the plate is τζακικι (tzaziki) , make with yogurt, cucumber and garlic; it is sooooo delicious! Also on the table is a traditional Greek salad which consists of tomatoes, cucumbers, onions, olives, feta, and drizzled with olive oil.

These are just a few of our favorite Greek dishes and are always eager to try new and interesting Mediterranean food.

Women's BSF presentation tonight

2007-10-31T01:06:00.000+07:00

Tonight, as I write, the women's prayer group is having a BSF presentation in our apartment. Many of these women have been praying for BSF to get started in Athens. Presentations are a means to introduce people to the concept of BSF. As they hear about BSF and it's vision, they will decided to register for the upcoming Pilot class. A Pilot class is just a mini-BSF class which will last for a short 5 week period. This is away to have them try BSF for a shorter period of time to see if they want to continue. We trust as people will come and begin to study God's word for themselves, they will "see" the benefit of being involved with this type of study. The Word will sell itself.

For those reading this blog, please pray for our success in Athens.

Love and Blessings
From the Walthall's

Greetings from the Walthall's in Athens, Greece

2007-10-29T22:15:00.000+07:00

October 2007

Greetings from the Walthall’s in Athens, Greece. Or, as the Apostle Paul would say, “Grace and peace to you from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ.”

The key word for us since we’ve been in Greece is “beginnings.” We arrived in Greece late August armed with a purpose and a call to bring God’s word to the people of Athens through the means of BSF. We are so excited to be here and to begin a new work for the Lord. Of course, none of this would be possible without God’s hand on us making a way as we try to find our way around, find an apartment, enroll our daughter in school, and just try to adjust to a new way of life in a foreign country.

We have so much to be thankful for as we see God working and orchestrating events and people to make things happen. We have indeed found an apartment which we love and now feel like home. And, the Lord provided an apartment near a Metro station so we can more easily get around Athens without a car.

We love being in Athens, but like any new place and new culture, we are learning to adjust. There are 2 key phrases we keep reminding ourselves of; 1) “it’s not wrong, but just different,” and 2) from the Wizard of Oz, “we’re not in Kansas anymore.” One major adjustment has been with the traffic. Since Athens is a densely populated city with what seems to be more cars than people, it can be a dangerous place for a pedestrian. There have been a few “close calls,” but God has protected us from our ignorance to the “rules” of traffic.

However, there are so many things we really love about living in Athens. The food, the traveling neighborhood markets which bring fresh produce to your local area, the weather (dry arid climate with some rain in the fall and winter), the metro system, the historical setting of Athens with the Acropolis and the Plaka (a busy tourist area with small shops and lots of sidewalk cafes or restaurants near the Acropolis) are just a few of the things that make Athens so special. It seems like each day we are here, our love for Athens, the people and the culture continues to grow with our understanding and assimilation.

When we arrived in Athens, the women’s prayer was already intact, but nothing yet for the men had been established. However, like with any new “beginning” it means starting small, but God has been faithful to provide. As of late October, we now can praise the Lord in providing us with one man (Sam from Nigeria) who will join Guenter and me in praying for the future of a men’s BSF group in Athens. Small beginnings does not bother me, because all great movements usually begins with just one or a few. And, in our case, it’s not just one or even a few, but a few + ONE = Unlimited. What good work God has called us to begin, He will see it to completion. For with God, nothing is impossible.

While each day generally brings some challenge for us, I continue to rely on God’s word and his faithfulness to provide. I said, before I came to Greece, that I’d climb any mountain if I knew it was what God wanted me to do. Well, we’ve had a few hills to climb along the way, but God has been faithful to get us over each bump. Psalm18:29 has been a verse I continue to remind myself of, “With your help I can advance against a troop; with my God I can scale a wall.” All I can say is, we are here to do God’s work and thankfully, He will carry us up and over any wall or any hill that comes our way.

Well, like any work for God, we need your prayers. Here are some specific things you can pray for us:

1. God to continue to draw new men to the prayer group.

2. Continue success for the Women’s BSF introduction presentations.

3. Continued assimilation into the culture, including learning the language.

4. Successful “turn around” to Albania before our 90 day visa expires (on or about Nov. 21)

5. Caitlin (our 17 yr old daughter) would be a Godly example to her non Christian friends at school.

Grace, peace and God’s blessing to you all,

Joyfully and thankfully serving the Lord in Athens, Greece

Gary and Claudia Walthall