Around the World
Training and Vision
The September DTS has two very successful outreaches nearing their end, one in Peru and one in Indonesia. Both teams have travelled to a variety of locations, participating in various ministries and exploring the beautiful cultures. Some of our students have even chosen to take the beautiful step of being baptised. It’s been so encouraging to hear their testimonies and I pray they all have a smooth transition back to the Netherlands, and then on to their home countries. One of the ways I have been able to support this team is by running the social media for the Peru team.
While the September DTS has been on outreach, I had the privilege of supporting the January DTS in three different ways. One is by overseeing the work duties twice a week in the kitchen. I began the time with them hearing about how their classes are going and what they are learning, before they start with their various tasks. I also help oversee the social media, so if you have been following us on Instagram @DTSHeidebeek, then most of the content you see I've had a hand in creating and posting. This has been a creative way to share online with others about what a DTS is and help spread awareness about our program. Stephan and I have also been running the music track. We've both been involved with the music track the past few years and it is something we really have on our hearts. It’s a privilege to see the students grow in their understanding of how the word, music and prayer all interact with each other and to see them empowered to lead worship themselves.
Another part of this season has been focused on settling more into my role as part of the Leadership Team. This coming season I will be taking on more responsibilities on the base, including week leading. This is when an LT member facilitates our base gatherings, such as base worship, intercession, announcements and occasionally extra staff time. We also took two days together as a team on base to focus on team building as well as casting vision for our staff days that happen each year in August.
In my role on the LT, I had the opportunity to travel around the world. Okay, not all the way around, but it felt like that the past two weeks. My first trip was a week in Albania to participate in the European Leaders Gathering. Over 300 YWAM leaders gather to network, gain inspiration and hear from one another what God is doing in YWAM Europe. We heard so many encouraging stories of revival breaking out all over Europe. Some bases that have been struggling for years, are now seeing many people come to faith. It was amazing to be a part of this for a week.
After Albania I traveled back to the Netherlands and had only 18 hours to repack my bags before flying out to LA for the "100 for 100" conference. It was hosted by Circuit Riders and The Send, two very thriving ministries that were birthed in YWAM. The purpose of the conference was to increase the effectiveness of our ministries. It was veryhelpful as we gained a lot of practical tools for implementing structures and strategies that would help us reach the younger generation with the gospel. While our other staff members took in various learning opportunities, Stephan and I participated in the music track focus. We gained more vision for worship at Heidebeek and could clarify some goals for this year in our ministry. For example, one of our goals is to focus on starting up our prayer room and maybe having two worship nights a month instead of just the one.
On a personal note: wedding planning is going very well, and God is providing in crazy ways. We still need a few more funds, but we have complete faith that God will continue to provide. We also received the keys to the house we will be living in on base. It needs some work, so the maintenance team here is doing a lot before we go in and start painting. We were also blessed with some free furniture from a nearby vacation house that was selling, all still of good quality. Stephan and I can’t express how truly thankful we are to you our supporters and to God who is providing in such miraculous ways.
Prayer points
A smooth transition back home for the September DTS
That the team that went to LA will be able to implement the things learned into our various ministries, including the prayer room and worship nights.
That wedding planning would continue to go smoothly and the final funds needed will come in.
Thanks so much for sending an update on your activities! How wonderful that you were able to attend two great conferences. What a blessing to have your fiancee with you jointly sharing and discussing what you've heard and being able to decide how you can together implement some new strategies. May God continue to Bless you in the work you both are doing with YWAM. You are making a positive Christian influence on so many people. May God continue to Bless you as prepare the final details for your wedding, honeymoon and YWAM details besides painting your new home! We'll keep you both in our prayers.