atkin david brenda 2008 taiwan

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Taste of Taiwan

January 2008Vol. XI, No. 1

PRAY WITH US

Thanksgiving for 2007

blessings

8 Cells In '08

Valentine Banquet

Emily's spring semester

Sports & English CampTaiwan Missionary Conf.

Kim's language classes

Lance's pre-field prep

Spring outreach classes

New believers

Join our Time for TaiwanEmail Prayer Update

For important prayer needs!

WEBSITEwww.atkin.teamexpansion.org

Field Address:

Dave & Brenda Atkin

67 Wen HsInS. 1st Rd.Nan Tun District

Taichung City, 40876Taiwan, [email protected]

Forwarding Agent:Jeff & Karen Graham

c/o Team ExpansionPO Box 143

Savoy, IL 61874-0143(217)[email protected]

(from. Left to rL0lit)

'B>rer/C(Ci,

TdbLthCi, K-LmtoerLy,(urUed)

ExpansionDavid &Brenda Atkin^Church Planting in Taiwan^

2007 Reasons to Pratee the Lord!

Looking back at 2007 AD, we can find just as many reasons as years to thankthe Lord. The following are just a few highlights, shared so that together youmay rejoice and praise the Lord with us. On March 4, 2007, the ComeChristian Church began by unanimous Taiwanese decision. Eleven precioussouls gave their lives to Jesus Christ in 2007, with many more having heardthe Gospel for the first time. In June, our DVD, Passport to Taiwan was featured on Taiwan national news and in the Taichung newspaper. During thesummer furlough in the US, the Atkin family visited with many of our partnerchurches -- it was a great time of fellowship and sharing with those who havebeen so faithful to this ministry! While the Atkin's were In the US, the secondSports &English Camp took place - several youth made decisions for Christ.In August, Emily began her freshman year at the University of Illinois, withmany answers to prayer taking place, including adjusting well to college life.Also, in August, after much prayer and preparation, Kim Hageman joined theTaichung Team Expansion church plant team to focus on children's ministry,fulfilling a great need in Taichung. And, in August, we also had a very successful VBS, more than 40 children attended. In September, Come ChristianChurch began a Cell Leader Training series, and our Taiwanese intern, ChuckHuang, is leading. Two of the four Year of Equipping classes have been taught,and are ready to be taught on an ongoing basis by others. Both women's andmen's weekday cell groups began. In 2007, David became the field coordinator for Team Expansions Japan teams - and made a 10-day trip there InOctober. In November, David also returned to the US for the NMC and TeamLeader Summit - a greattraining and fellowship experience. In December, ourChristmas outreach had more than 60 people in attendance, many were first-time visitors. Lance Hampton, a graduate of Lincoln Christian College andfriend of our Kim Hageman, has applied with Team Expansion to be our internbeginning in March, 2008. And, lastly only because we're out of space, after10 years, the Lord continues to provide all that we need to live and serve herein Taiwan! We thank God for His faithfulness and yours! —The Atkin Family

L

Team Expansion; David & Brenda AtkinNov. 16-Dec. 31,2007

Opening Balance $18,291.93

Received (Individuals) $1,660.00

Received (Churches) $12,004.00

Expenses $9,800.69

Ending Balance smssuz

A Busy December: (from left to right)David's Monday night English class, theChang family, Kim & Jane's son, the Tues.morning Ladies' Bible Fellowship, Noah's8th birthday, and Tab & Em argue aboutwho scored more points in the MCA alumnivs. varsity basketball game.

VRF - Van Replacement Fund

Opening VRF Balance $9,050.00

Ending VRF Balance $9,050.00

2007 Total Received $101,979.48

2007 Total Expenses $88,600.47

Thank you for your support!

The Anaels Reioice!

Eleven souls decided to accept Christ as Lord and Savior in 20071 Several moreindividuals decided to place membership at the Gome Christian Church. Manymore heard the Gospel for the very first time! Mama Chen is 76 years old, hadbeen a Taoist all her life, but that didn't stop her from being baptized into Christ onDec. 17. She is also cancer-free, which is an answer to prayer! Damlen andOliver Chen, who are twins, in the 6th grade, and who's grandma is Mama Chen;gave their lives to Jesus too. Tabitha Alexander, an 8th grader, daughter to Tim&Care, gave her life to Christ. Gi Dung-Yow (Tony), also made his confession offaith and was immersed on Dec. 23. Praise the Lord for them! Pray for more!

PRAY WITH US

• Valentine Banquet

• 8 Cells in '08

• Kim's Language Classes

• Lance Hampton - Intern

a Young Adult English Cell

a IMF '08 Conference

a Sports & English Camp '08

aJKDE VBS-7/28-8/1

a Emerald Hills Project

Join our Time for Taiwan

Email Prayer UpdateFor important prayer needs!

WEBSITEwww.atkln.teamexpansion.org

Field Address:

ipave & Brenda Atkin:67 Wen Hsin S. 1st Rd.

j.Nan Tun DistrictjTaichung City, 40876[Taiwan, [email protected]

Forwarding Agent:ieff &Karen Graham -Ic/o Team Expansion )PC Box 143 1Savory, IL 61874-0143(217)352-3529 i;[email protected] ^

David & Brenda Atkin Church Plaf

ing in Taiwan

The Crimson Flow streamed from the vein in my arm, down the tubeand into the plastic bag. "Pastor Chang?" (or as I'm knownin Taiwan) asked the lady on the other end of the phone. "I am callingfrom the Blood Donation Center. I'm sorry to bother you during ChineseNew Year, but can you please come and give blood today? It is anemergency, as we have no A- blood. As you know, A- is very rare." Thenervous tone in her voice conveyed the desperate situation they werefacing. Now, as the nurse sat beside me on the blood-mobile bus, wetogether watched the throng of holiday shoppers coming and going fromthe Mitsikoshi Department Store.

As if she was reading my mind, the nurse quietly said, "Even when weare very low on blood, most of Taiwan's people are not willing to donate- either they are too busy, too afraid or don't care." I didn't respond,except to nod my head in agreement. What I had been thinking, as wewatched the people walking by seemingly oblivious to the presence ofthe big white bus, was what the blood symbolizes -- LOVE. It was Jesuswho taught us, "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down hislife for his friend." Not long after, Jesus shed his blood for us. Bloodsaves! Yet, most in Taiwan, just as they passed by the blood mobile,pass by the cross, oblivious to it's healing power. Most, but not all!Praise the Lord! For, "There is power, power, wonder working power inthe precious blood of the Lamb."

Special Guest:Mayor Jason Hu

An Evening You'll Never Forget!

asi

.-I

2^ 24 06:00 - 9:00 pm

The Open Your Heart Valentine Banquet ticket is shown above We'repraying and planning for a full house - 96 people! Our Heavenly Father isthe Creator & Sustainer of love - displayed through Jesus! Pray for us!

We've always boasted that our partners in this ministry, YOU, are the best ofany anywhere! Well, now your missionary has opened his mouth, and prays

you'll come through big! Otherwise, well....let's not go there!

TMF Conference '08 is July 7-12, on thecampus of MCA, here in Taichung. TMF Is ayearly gathering of missionaries from all overTaiwan; for the purpose of spiritual enrichmentand encouragement. I, David, am the chairman for the conference this summer. One of

our supporting churches, Monticello, is sending a team to help. We'd like to give everymissionary family who attends a "We Care"Package of goodies: notes, hand-made stuff,candies, devo books, CD's, etc. Will yourchurch help by collecting and sending a box ofgoodies for the care packages - mailing byMay 15 on a slow boat? Please!!! Thank youfor your help!!!

Team Expansion: David & Brenda AtkinJanuary, 2008

Opening Balance $18,551.97

Received (individuals) 670.00

Received (Churches) 5,277.00

Expenses 6,558.71

Ending Balance SI 7.941.15

TherBig Picture^Team Expansion /

"My wife, son and I recently watched 'Pirates of theCaribbean: At World's End' together for a family night.Confession: I was lost for much of the movie (it was asequel to a movie or two that I hadn't caught). But asthe plot continued, the movie climaxed with a majorshowdown between pirates and their enemies. (I don'twant to give away too much of the plot. :-) ) I enjoyedhearing Elizabeth Swan passionately give a 'call toarms' near the end of the movie, asking her colleaguesto "Hoist the colours!" In her case, it was the "skull &crossbones" flag. As Iwas stirred by her emotional call,I reflected on how much greater is our own call... to

Sports & English Camp '08 is the weekfollowing TMF, on July 13-19. This will be thethird annual S & E Camp, with David againacting as camp dean. It's not too late to signon to be a part of our faculty!!! If you enjoycamp, enjoy teaching youth (in English), havea passion for music, drama or sports — wecan use YOU! Due to increased airfare costs,a 12 day trip to Taiwan will cost about $2000.

Our VBS is July 28 - Aug. 1. Kimberly isplanning for 100 children! Could you help uswith craft supplies? Let us know If you have agreat craft Idea! Thanks for being such greatpartners in this ministry!!!

VRF - Van Replacement Fund

Opening VRF Balance 9,050.00


Detailed financial report mailed to ail supporters.Allgifts to this ministry are tax deductible!


Doug Lucas,Team Expansion Presidentwww.teamexpanslon.org

spread the word worldwide about a humble man whocontained the Words and the Spirit of God in his fleshlybody, ... a man who turned redeemer and hero, ... aman who was so much more, in fact, than a man. No"wonder* we travel to the four winds of the earth! No*wonder' we risk life and limb. And to you, who makepossible this work, we say, thank you for providing thewind for our sails! May God bless you as we hoist thecolours of our savior... the red of his shed blood and

the white of his saving grace. God bless your newyear!!! - Doug Lucas

cr

Taste of Taiwan

March 2008Vol. XI, No. 3

PRAY WITH US

• Praise for Vai. Banquet

• Praise for Vanessa's

baptism

• Praise for Intern Lance

• Easter "Friend Day"

• New Cell Groups

• TMF Conference

• Summer Mission Teams

• Sports & English Camp• Em's study abroad



WEBSITEwww.atkln.teamexpanslon.org

Field Address:

Dave & Brenda Atkin

67 Wen Hsin S. 1st Rd.

Nan Tun District

Taichung City, 40876Taiwan, [email protected]

Forwarding Aaent:

Jeff & Karen Graham



-vr^

Team ExpansionDavid&Brenda Atkin Church Planting in Taiwan ^

A Night to RememberSunday evening, Feb. 24, the ComeChristian Church here in Taichung,hosted its first annual Valentine Banquetat the 4-star Landis Hotel. The themewas Open Your Heart. Couples paid$50 USD to attend, and child care wasprovided for free at our ministry center.Nearly 50 people attended, with mostbeing first-time visitors to a church-sponsored activity.

We had invited our Mayor Jason Hu toattend, with his wife; but due to a death inthe family, they cancelled at the last minute. Would this effect the outcome? As itturned out ~ not at all! Thank you, Lord!

The evening began with pictures of eachcouple (which gives us opportunity to follow up with each couple again to givethem their portrait), followed by prayerand a delicious buffet dinner. After dinner,we gave prizes to the couples who hadbeen married the longest, or the shortest,etc. Our MC, Chuck Huang, then introduced James Chang, to share his testimony. It was his first time to speak inpublic! James shared how since he andhis wife, Joanne, have come to the Lord,their marriage has grown stronger. He

ft

ended his message by saying, "Joanne, Ilove you!" (Which, is something Chinesemen seldom say.)

Then, Care Alexander led the MarriageGame (similar to the Dating Game). Thegame provided many memorable moments, especially when the men wereasked, "How often do you tell your wifeyou love her?" For some, the last timewas before they got married! Lastly,Chuck Huang gave a brief messageabout how God is the source of love. Ourmarriage grows in love as we Open OurHearts to Him!

As the evening concluded, each couplewas given a copy of The 5 Love Languages. One husband left the banquetjoyful, but very embarrassed, vowing totell his wife he loves her every day! Thefollowing week, the wife and children werein church. Already, people are askingabout next year's banquet! And, some ofthe couples have agreed to attend aweekly cell group.

Best of all, our little church did it all, withvery little assistance from the missionaries! It was a true all-church, team effort --to God be the glory!

Little Did We Know that it was a two for one dealwhen we brought KImberly Hageman on to our churchplant team here in Taichung! We're thrilled to have Kim,whose focus is children's ministry, here! We're even moreexcited to welcome Lance Hampton, who as of March 1,became our intern and Kim's fiance - all in the same day!Lance, for the next five months will be our intern, focusingon single's ministry. Lord willing, after Lance and Kim tie the knot, on Aug. 30, in Beardstown, IL; they will makeplans to return and serve together in a full-time capacity. During his internship, Lance is living with Mason & AncyChen. So, welcome Lance! And, congratulations Kimberly & Lance! We look forward to serving the Lord here inTaiwan with you!

TMF and

S & E Campare both just aroundthe corner! The TMF

conference and S &

E Camp; are duringback-to-back weeks,July 7-19. We are pleased to have a groupcoming from First Christian, in Monticello, tohelp out at TMF.

As we mentioned last month, we're asking allour churches to collect small Items to Include in

WE CARE packages for all the missionarieswho attend TMF. The goodies will be broughtover to Taiwan by summer teams. Can youhelp? E-mail us if you're willing!

S & E Camp now has its own web-site! ThanksScott & Chad! We're excited that Taiwan teens

can now register on-line! It's:

www.sportsandenglish.com.

Vanessa Gaerlan-Wang, afriend of Brenda's, gave her life to Christon Feb. 14th. Vanessa has been the

MCA varsity girls' asst. basketball coachfor two seasons. She and her husband,Alex, have just returned to Nike corporate headquarters in Beaverton, OR.

Though Vanessa was baptized asan infant, the choice to accept Jesus asher personal Lord and Savior was hersto make. So, with the entire team's participation, Vanessa was immersed intoJesus Christ!

We are now in the process of gettingVanessa plugged into a Christian Church in Beaverton -- hopefullyone with a hand-bell choir!

"He Is Risen!" Sunday, March 23Come Christian Church I1' BE § S ^ ^

Sonrise Breakfast, Resurrection Service& Easter Egg Hunt

Brenda Atkin

^2QQ&•^ll '

J opening Balance $17,941.15

1 Received (Individuals) 820.00

1 Received (Churches) 5,865.45

1 Expenses 4,476.85

1 Ending Balance S;19.871.86

Here, There & Everywhere(formerly Teens & Tot)

EMILY - This has been a busy semester with 18 hrs., a part-time job, preparing for study abroad next year and being ona worship team for an Inter-Varsity Christian fellowshipgroup. I am enjoying my first year of college -- God hasbeen good to me! Thank you for your prayers!

VRP - Van Replacement Fund

Opening VRF Balance 9,350.00


We'll be replacing the van soon! Thank you all!

Detailed financial report mailed to all supporters.AH gifts to this ministry are tax deductibie!


TABITHA - After being on the go non-stop since schoolstarted, with v'bail & b'ball, I'm finally able to relax afterschool and spend more time on my homework -- or, not!NOAH - Track & Field Day is this Friday (3/14)! I have beenpracticing the 100m sprint, the ball throw and the high jump!I can't wait! Last week I went with my Taiwan friends andmy dad to a place where you could ride horses and shootpaint balls -- but not at the same time!

V#a

Taste of Taiwan

April 2008Vol. Xi, No. 4

(

PRAY WITH US

• 8 Cells in'08!

• Praise for Easter Service

• Lance's new cell group

• Kim & Lance's wedding

plans

• Mission teams from US

• TMF Conference

• Sports & English Camp

• Emily's Egypt & Jordan

plans

Join our "Time for Taiwan"



Field Address:

David & Brenda Atkin


Nan Tun District

Taichung City, 40878Taiwan, R.O.C.011-888-42-381-8447

[email protected]

Forwarding Agent;Jeff & Karen Graham



Team Expansion'bavid & Brenda Atkin East Asia

Three New CellsWe're excited to announce

the birth of three new

weekday cell groups. Thefirst meets on Friday eve-nings in Tim & Care'sapartment, and is being led by Chuck Huang (pic- Because of the elec-tured above). It is what we call a "family cell." The tion, our attendancesecond will begin on Saturday, April 19, and be led by was not what we'dLance Hampton, our intern. It is designed for young hoped for. How-adults - from high school age thru those just begin- ever, we did havening a career. This is a huge segment of our society. 10 new first-timeThe third cell, which we pray will one day become a visitors to the Comekind of satellite church, will meet in the home of Christian Church.Ching & Jane Chen, in Wu-Chi / Sha-lu area, west The Easter egg huntof TaichungCity. David willlead this cell on

Thursday evenings. You mayremember thatlChing & Janelwere int'l stu

dents that Mack I& Elaine hosted

in Newman. It was from that host familyprogram that we came to know them.Please pray for these new cell groups!

RESURRECTION SUNDAY

Just like you, we celebrated theresurrection of our Lord and Savioron Sunday morning, March 23.Unlike you, for most Taiwanese inattendance, it was their first time tohear the Resurrection Story! While

most of our neighbors celebrated the

election of a president; we ate breakfast together, worshipped the RisenLord and found

Easter eggs!

was In the apartment building complex next door, andattracted much positive attention!

TMF '08 Conference

The Taiwan Missionary Fellowship (TMF) conference is July 7-12. David is the conference chairman. We're excited to have Dr. David Roadcupand Dr. Darrell Booh coming to speak for the conference. We're also excited to have two mission

teams coming; one from the Dallas, TX area andthe other from First Christian Church, Monticelio,iL TMF. is similar to the NMC, bringing between200-300 missionaries from all over Taiwan and Asia

to Taichung for encouragement and instruction.Kim Hageman will be in charge of the children'sprogram, and Lance Hampton will be in charge ofthe teen program. Brenda, naturally, is heading uprefreshments and hospitality. Also, please don'tforget that we've asked YOUR CHURCH to help uscollect small items for "WE CARE PACKAGES." So,this TMF is truly a team effort!

Sports & Engiish Camp '08

This will be our third annual Team Expansion/Formosa Christian Mission S & E Camp, held onthe campus of Morrison Academy, in Taichung; July13-19. David will again be the dean. We're prayingfor 100 teens from all over Taiwan to attend. We're

also praying for some helping hands from the US!We're thrilled to have some faculty returning for asecond time!

Why back-to-back weeks? The MCA campus willbe in the midst of a major building project. Havingthe two gatherings within a two week span will allowfor construction to be uninterrupted later in thesummer. Check out or S & E Camp web-site:

www.sportsandenqlish.com

Ching & Jane (Shelley & Sierra)w/ Mack & Elaine (7/07)

Ching and Jane recently purchased anew home, moving out of Ching'sparent's home. The move was to enable Ching and Jane to get awayfrom the family idols and host a cellgroup in their home. They desire forthe daughters to grow up knowingJesus as their Lord & Savior!

Here. There & Everywhere

Emily - Well, I've decided on Jordan for my semester of studyabroad. But, before I get to Jordan, I'm going to Egypt to help atthe camp I worked at in MS. Just a couple weeks ago, I had theopportunity to go to Chicago and do some inner-city work overspring break. It was a real eye-opening experience for me! I'mlooking forward to being back in Taiwan this summer!Tabltha • I'm finished with sports forthis year, so I'm beginning to thinkabout next year and thinking aboutwhat courses I'm going to take. I'malso looking forward to the Jr/Srbanquet coming up next month. Ithas been a good year so far!Noah - one of the things I like to dowith my dad is play golf. Our ladycaddy (standard on all Taiwancourses), lets me ride on the electricgolf bag cart. That way, I can keepup with dad and his buddies.

Team Expansion: David & Brenda AtkinMarch, 2008

Van Replacement Fund (VRF)

Opening Balance 9.871.86 Opening VRF Balance 9,650.00

Received (Individuals) 4,050.00 Ending VRF Balance $9,950.00 1Received (Churches) 10,343.00

The expenses and receipts Include a $3000 TMF

Expenses 8,786.47 expense which was reimbursed!

Ending BalanceDetailed financial report mailed to all supporters.

Ailgifts to this ministry are tax deductible!

PRAY WITH US

• 8 Cells In '08

• Emily will return to Taiwan

end of May, then Jordan

• Summer mission teans

• TMF Conference

• Sports & English Camp

• CCC'sVBS

• Lance & Kim's wedding

plans

• Praise for a new van!




Field Address:

Dave & Brenda Atkin


Nan Tun District


[email protected]




Team ExpansiWhDavid & Brenda Atkin East Asia

The following is excerpts of our atypicalMother's Day message. For you, inEnglish. Happy Mother's Day!

Mama. Don't Give vour

Bahv to Molech!

God gave mothers the wonderful and awesome responsibility of carrying and caring for new life.Mothers and babies have a special bond that can onlybe truly understood by God Himself, the Creator of allmankind. Psalms 139:13-15 describes that specialrelationship between Creator God, mama and baby:"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because Iam fearfully and wonderfully made; your works arewonderful, 1 know that full well. My frame was nothidden from you when I was made in the secret place.When 1 was woven together...your eyes saw my unformed body. All the days ordained for me were written in your book before one ofthem came to be."

god." What made Molech "the detestable god of theAmmonites?" It was because mamas sacrificed their

babies in the fire to Molech! (see Ps 106:34-39; Jer7:30-31; 32:35) Molech required infant sacrifice!What better way to declare your allegiance to an idolgod than by sacrificing your own flesh and blood,your heritage; in a gruesome, torturous way, by fire!

"Thankfully," you might say, "there is no such god asMolech here!" Mama, Molech goes by a differentname in Taiwan, or in the US! What is his name?You tell me! The baby that you carried for ninemonths, gave birth to, nursed and nurtured, cried forand worried over; grew up! We all want the best forour baby, and want our children to BE THE BEST!We're told, the only way to be the best is to sacrificeour baby to the education idol, to make our baby aslave of the Taiwan education system - Confucius andcram schools. So, our baby studies morning, noonand night; seven days a week - cramming for the nextexam that will prove our baby is #1! There is now nomore time for Creator God, no time for worship, forChristian fellowship, for prayer, reading God's Word -

and slowly, as the baby be-comes a teenager ~ Molechchokes away the faith and hopein God our baby once had!Why can we call this educationidol "Molech?" Because it robs

our babies of their life in Jesus,just as Molech took babies. Ihave seen this happen in

Taiwan over and over again - and in ten years, I haveyet to see a single child come back to the Lord. Yes,Molech is an appropriate name for this education idol- because it robs the Creator God of His children.

But, what can we do? We can't fight the system? Wecannot stand against Molech? No, really? DidDaniel? Or, what about Shadrach, Meshach andAbednego? They were slaves in a foreign land, commanded to worship a foreign idol, but they refused!instead, they put their FAITH in the Creator God wholoves them! How did God reward their faith? Byfeeding them to the lions or burning them to death inthe fiery furnace? No, by DELIVERING them fromevery danger and ELEVATING them above all others,God proved again His faithfulness to those who trustin Him! (see Daniel 1:6-20) In fact, the foreign kingrealized that "In every matter of wisdom and understanding...he found them ten times better" than anyone in his entire kingdom (Daniel 1:20).

How is this possible? Daniel and his friends did notgive themselves to Molech, or bow down to any otheridol; yet, they were 10 times smarter than anyone else.The answer, "God GAVE (them) knowledge andunderstanding of all kinds" (Daniel 1:17). RememberKing Solomon? Who gave him his wisdom? "Godgave Solomon wisdom (continued on page 2)

Mama, could there be two paths,two books, for your baby? Onebook, the Book of Life, recordswhat will be for the mama and

baby who live by faith in God,like Hannah who dedicated her

son, Samuel, to the Lord. Theother book, sadly, chronicles the life of the baby sacrificed by mama to Molech. Do these books exist?Yes, they do. Revelations tells us about them(Revelation 20:11-12)!

Our Creator God loves your baby! Indeed, it was Hewho "knit" your baby together in your womb. Whenyour baby had the hiccups, sucked on its thumb ormoved about in the womb - our God knew it too!

Jesus, our Savior, was furious with his disciples whenthey tried to keep the little children from seeing Him.He scolded his disciples by saying, "Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for thekingdom of heaven belongs to such as these" (Matt19:14) How much does the Creator God love yourbaby? He sent His Only Son, Jesus, to save both youand your baby. So, mama, don't give your baby as asacrifice to Molech!

Who is Molech? Molech was the idol god of theAmmonites, one of the people groups living nearbythe land of Canaan. The land of Canaan was given toGod's people as their inheritance, as first promised toAbraham. Moses brought God's people to the Promised Land from Egypt. Many times the Israelites werewarned NOT to worship the idols of the people in andaround Canaan. Of these idols the Israelites were

warned not to worship was Molech - "the detestable

Mama, Molech goes by adifferent name In

I Taiwan, or In the US!s What Is his name?

(Mama cont.) and very great insight, and a breadth of understandingas measureless as the sand on the seashore" (1 Kings 4:29). WouldGod do the same with your baby if you put Him first?

Malachi describes what happened to God's people when they "marriedthe daughter of a foreign god" (Ma! 2:11): weeping, wailing, brokenfaith, divorce, unacceptable sacrifices, robbing God, etc. Do thesethings sound good to you? Is this what you want for your children?That's right, the Bible asks, "Will a man rob God? Yet, you rob me."(Mai 3:8) How? When we make other things - idols - more importantthan our relationship with God, we rob God, because He is our Creator.However, because God loves us and our babies, he says, "Return tome, and I will return to you" (Mai 3:7). By faith, give your life to Jesus completely, and then bring your tithe to the Lord. What is yourtithe? Not just money, bring your baby too, to worship the Lord ofLords, the King of Kings.

Mamas, you have a choice, there are two paths! You can live your lifeby the standard method, sacrificing your baby on the education altar, tothe idol Molech; cramming for endless exams on the Lord's Day soyour baby can be #1 - robbing God of His time with your baby. Doyou remember why Jesus was furious with his disciples? Because theytried to keep the children AWAY from Him! Taiwan's education system might seek to do the same thing! Will your baby ever return to theLord, once the exams are over? Or, will they go out and find a goodjob, make lots of money, marry an unbeliever and sacrifice their children (your grandchildren) in the flames to Molech, just as you did.

Team Expansion: David & Brenda AtkinApril, 2008 - Generai Fund

By the way, mama, you are not alone in this decision. Sadly, Americahas Its Molech too! Among the myriad Molechs is Lord's Day sportsprograms for children: soccer, baseball, hockey, gymnastics, golf, etc.Many children are sacrificed in America too by the prospect of beingthe next Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan or Wang Jian-Ming.

Mama, this is your choice! So, will you decide to live by FAITH withyour baby? Will you make you and your baby's relationship with theLord your #1 priority? Will you worship and love God with your life,your time, your talent, your money, and your baby's education. Willyou say, "We won't bow down to Taiwan's education idol, Molech!Will you protect your baby by saying "NO!" to anything or anyone thatwould take your baby away from the Creator God and His church? Willyou say, "Our baby, we dedicate to the Lord!"

Will God honor your FAITH? Will the Lord do for your baby what Hedid for Daniel and his friends? "Test me in this and see," says the LordAlmighty! That's right, God wants you to test Him! God says, "Testme in this and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven andpour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it"(Mai 3:10). Mama, if you are willing, you will certainly see, we servea faithful God who wants to bless both you and your baby! Because,"From the lips of children and infants (God) has ordained praise!" (Ps8:2) So, "Praise Him, Praise Him, All ye little children. God is love!Yes, God is love!"{By DLA 5/6/08)

VRF -- Van Replacement FundWe found a VAN! Thank you!

VRFund (Received by May 1) $9,950.00

Van / tax / title (Expense) $13,654.87

Opening Balance

Received (Individuals) 1,067.00


Exp. (Inc. $3,705 for van) 7,269.71

Ending Balance S26.860.02

Detailed financial report mailed toail supporters. All gifts to thisministry are tax deductible!


Monticelio's Mission Team - We're

pleased to have one of our partnerchurches, First Christian, Monticeiio,IL; sending a group this summer tohelp with our TMF, July 7-12. We alsoappreciate the contributions to the "WeCare" packages we're putting togetherby several other churches. It's not toolate to help with that project. Let usknow and we'll tell you how. E-mail:

[email protected]

June 20-22 we look fonward

to welcoming back MicahForeman and a teen groupfrom College Heights,Joplin, MO. We're takingour church, and Micah'sgroup, on our annual weekend camping retreat. Hopewe don't run into any cobraslike we did the last time!

Here. There & Everywhere

Emily - I'm done! My freshman yearis history! I'm thankful for all the Lorddid for me during this year! Amazing!Lord willing, after an IV retreat in Ml,

1 return to Taiwan and work this

summer before going to Amman,Jordan for study abroad.Tabitha - It feels like all I've done is

study and take test lately. Lookingforward to summer break -- and then

being a senior! Oh, and I'm cookingdinner for Mother's Day!Noah - My soccer team has an all-island tournament on Sat., May 17th.I play left side mid-fielder because I'mleft-footed, just like my dad, thoughmy dad can't really play soccer.

cr

Taste of Taiwan

July, 2008Vol. XI, No. 7

PRAY WITH US

• Mission teams safety• Roadcups & Bock

• TMF Conference '08

• S & E Camp '08

• Coma's VBS

• Lance & Kim's Wedding

• Discovery Documentary

• Mack & Elaine's Trip

• Em's Study Abroad




Field Address:

Dave & Brenda Atkin


Nan Tun District


[email protected]




Team ExpansionDavid & Brenda Atkin East Asia

All-Church Campout at Sun Moon LakeOn June 20 & 21, forty-five adults and children (including the 13 CollegeHeights folks), experienced a great weekend of fellowship together.

i

1

What's Happening in July?

TMF'08 Conference July 7-12Sports & English Camp July 13-19

Come Christian Church VBS^» July 21-25

When a Missions Team Comes to Taiwan

What do they do? Here are just a few activities: a workproject at our orphanage, a project with our church inTaichung, a visit to the temple and cultural village and avisit to the Fung-Jia Night Market!

Team Expansion: David & Brenda Atkin

June, 2008 - General Fund

Opening Balance S26.357.27



Expenses 5,898.84

Ending Balance $29,086.78

Detailed financial report mailed to all supporters.All gifts to this ministry are tax deductible!


David & Dr. Chang

Discovery Channel DocumentaryIt was 2 1/2 years ago that Dr. Chang operated on David'sspine to correct a severe scoliosis curvature. Though notyet a Christian, Dr. Chang believes God hastened David'scomplete recovery. In July and August a Discovery Channelfilm crew will produce a documentary about remarkable recoveries from scoliosis correction, which will air through-outthe Asia Pacific Rim, featuring Dr. Chang and David.

Please pray that David will have the opportunity to reallyshare what God has done. May this healing bring glory to

God in places where the Gospel is seldom heard! PTL!

Lance & Kim

Lance, our intern for the past four months, andKim, our teammate since August, 2007; will tiethe knot in Beardstown, IL, on Saturday, Aug. 30.They will return to the US together on July 27,one month prior to the wedding.

After their wedding, Lance and Kim have a busyschedule -- planning to return to Taiwan in January to continue language school. BetweenAugust and January they hope to: raise someadditional support, go to MTI in Colorado forsome training, pack and ship some personal belongings, spend time with their supportingchurches and attend some additional workshops.

So, if you see Lance & Kim (pictured on the frontof this newsletter) give the newlyweds a hug forus and see what you can do to speed them backon their way to Taiwan! Thank you!

Here. There & Evervwhere

Emily - This summer I'm taking an economics classonline, lifeguarding with Tab, teaching a one-on-oneEnglish class, and drinking LOTS of green tea (nowhere on earth makes it quite like our tea stands). I'menjoying being back in Taiwan because I know it maybe awhile before I'm able to return. In less than two

months I'll be leaving for Jordan, and thanks to theState Dept., I now have a scholarship which will reallyhelp. =)

Tabitha - I'm spending my summer lifeguarding at theMCA pool. Most of my friends are gone this summer -can't wait for my friends to get back!

Noah - The camping trip was really fun and I caughtthe biggest fish! After TMF and S & E Camp, Grandma& Grandpa will come! Then we all get to go onvacation together!

^ mo

Taste of Taiwan

August 2008Vol. XI, No. 8

PRAY WITH US

• Lance & Kim Wedding

• PTL Great Summer

• School Starting

• CCC Fall Programs

• Discovery Channel


Email Prayer UpdateFor Important prayer needs!

WEBSITEwww.atkin.teamexpanslon.org

Field Address:

Dave & Brenda Atkin

67 Wen HsinS. 1st Rd.

Nan Tun District


[email protected]




Team ExpansioijiDavid & Brenda Atkln

TMF Conference - Julv 7-12

What a blessing it was to have 274people in attendance at TMF! Ourspeakers, Dr. David Roadcup andDr. Darrell Bock, did an amazing jobwith our theme - Under Construc

tion. Chad Edwards, leading theTeam Expansion praise band,brought us all to God's throne in worship. The mission teams, from Dallasand Monticello, were unbelievable!What a group! Our teammates,Kimberly and Lance, did an outstanding job leading the entire children's and youth programs.The "WeCare" packages - filled with goodiesfrom our partner churches, were areal blessing to all! Brenda was rightby my side in coordinating this ministry to the missionary community ofTaiwan ~ and I couldn't have done it

without her! As the 2008 TMF Con

ference chairman, I thank God for allthose who made my job so easy!Lastly, thank YOU, for your prayers,which under-girded all we did!

East Asia

CONSTRUCTION

.,tO« '.I «•'

It doesn't seem possible that the Atkin family has served in Taiwan 1(years, having moved to Kaohsiung for full-time service on July 2, 1998We served five years with the Kaohsiung team, helping to get theKaohsiung Good News Christian Church going strong. And, then, for thgpast five years, we have been serving in Taichung, Taiwan's third largestcity in the center of the island. With God's help and your faithful partnerfship with us, the Come Christian Church is moving forward. As we lootback over the past decade, we can't help but thank God for the blessing;he has poured out on both this family and our labors. The Kingdom i^growing here in Taiwan. Yet, there is still much to do! This year, mor0than 3,800 tons of ghost money will be burned to the ancestral spirits!Thank you for your partnership with us in spreading the Good News!

Sports & English Camp '08 -- what can we say!?! Awesome! Exceeding our expectations! The Spirit was ever present with us, and many who had never heard of Jesusmade decisions to accept Christ. Seven students, out of 13 who made confessions offaith, were immersed on the final morning. Though Typhoon Kalmaegi tried to wash usaway (dumping 3 feet of rain in 24 hours), it could not dampen the positive attitude of ourfaculty / campers as we sang "Hey, You are my sunshine. On a cloudy day -- It's gonna beOkay!" As the dean, I was so proud of the way our faculty (made up of Taiwanese bro/sis,missionaries and a short-term team from the US) all worked together In sharing the loveof Jesus! Praise the Lord!

To view or download a really cool 3-minute camp video:

www.sportsandenqMsh.com

-A '*1

11? ^ T-

Vacation Bible School - July 21-25Over 40 children attended our VBS, vjh\ch was held forthe first time at the local park's community center. Wehad many first-time attenders. At Friday evenings closing program, more than 80 people attended. A few ofthe families have already come to our Sunday morningservice. We hope to see more this fail!


June, 2008 - General Fund


Received (Individuals) 105.00


Expenses 8,482.40

Ending Balance $24,085.38


Thank you for your partnership!

This 'n That... Tabltha begins her senior year of HS on Monday, Aug. 18. She will begin her 3rdyear as a starter in volleyball. Emily will be going to Amman, Jordan, for a semester of study abroadon Aug. 22. Our teammates, Kimberly Hageman and Lance Hampton, will be getting married inBeardstown, IL, on Aug. 30. Discovery Channe/finished filming on Aug. 14, and hopes to releasethe documentary on recovery from scoliosis surgery by the end of September. We don't know if orwhen it may be available in the US. Come Christian Church fall programs kick-off on your LaborDay. We will begin a new father-son cell group! Mack & Elaine will return to the US on Sept. 9th. .

A V#Cf

Taste of Taiwan

September, 2008Vol. XI, No. 9

PRAY WITH US

• Those needing to make

decisions to accept Jesus

• Faii Programs

• Bro. Huang Ordination

• Lance & Kim Hampton

• Emily in Jordan

• Pianning for home

assignment - both for US

and Taiwan

• Japan PC Trip in Fall


Emaii Prayer UpdateFor important prayer needs!


Fieid Address:

Dave & Brenda Atkln


Nan Tun District


[email protected]


c/o Team ExpansionPC Box 143

Savoy, iL 61874-0143(217)[email protected]

Team Expansion/ffavid & Brenda Atkin East Asia

ANNOUNCEMENT! URGENT! NOTICE!Lord willing, next year, we'll do something we've never done in the 10 yearswe've been in Taiwan - take a six-month furlough (also known as "Home Assignment"), from June thru December! One of our goals is to visit each of ourpartner churches to celebrate what God is doing here in Taiwan, through yourpartnership! (That would be more than 20 churches!)

So, how and when can we be available to you? Can we spend a week withyou during your VBS? Can we come to your Faith Promise Missions Rally?Do you have a ladies' meeting or mens' meeting? How can we be a blessingto your congregation - a Sunday morning, Sunday night, Wed. night? A golfouting, a motorcycle trip (my personal favorite), a craft bazaar, a Softball game,a wiener roast - we're up for about anything!

Now is the time to e-mail us with your requests! Don't [email protected]

- s n ii !

Fall ScheduleThe above flyer is the front-side of the Come Christian

Church fall schedule. In ad

dition to some of the normal

classes, we've added aSunday evening fellowship,a father/son group, and teenfellowship.

Sept. 14th we'll set-apartBro. Huang Ching-Fa as anevangelist.

Two service projects willhighlight our fall: visiting thehospital cancer ward andadopting the orphans at theHome of Gods Love.

The Importance of Vacation?!?I have no right to expound on the importance of vacations, or regular family time. To be honest, we've donevery little of both. Solomon told us there was a 'lime foreverything, and a season for every activity underheaven" (EccI 3:1). If that's true (and God's Word is),then we're suppose to make time to relax, be refreshedand reconnect with our family. I believe God made sunsets to help us to slow down, consider the AwesomeGod we serve and thank Him for the day of blessings.Instead, often it is a reminder that supper isn't ready yet,and we're late for the next meeting. I was once told,"Don't tell your supporters about taking a vacation -they may not approve!" And, I must confess, for manyyears I've felt guilty about taking time off to spend withfamily. But as I watch my children grow up, I mourn thetime I've not spent with them. So, if you're at all like me~ please STOP!

Please make time for family vacations and sunsets!And, to encourage you, I've included a few pictures ofour recent familyvacation! I'm also

including somevacation planningtips we've learnedalong the way tohelp you getstarted! I hopeyou approve!

Dave's Vacation Planning Tips 1) Save for your vacation a little each month, and don't go in debt!2) Look for mission guest houses or hostels in the area you want to visit. 3) If possible, go in the offseason. 4) Use frequent flyer miles to reserve airline tickets - well in advance. 5) Can you travel by localtransportation (an all-night bus instead of flying)? 6) Be brave, and eat the local foods rather than in thehotel restaurants, and PB&J goes a long way! 7) Plan at least one activity that each member of yourfamily will enjoy (and budget for it). 8) Cell phones for emergency only. 9) Relax and don't be on aschedule - take slow walks in the evening. 10) Don't forget the Lord's Day and your tithe!

Wedded Bliss - Lance & Kimberlv Hampton

Our teammates,

Lance & Kim-

berly, wereunited in mar

riage on Aug.30, 2008; at theFirst Christian

Church in

Beardstown, IL.This is Kim's

home church

and one of our

partners in this ministry. We rejoice with the newly-weds and their families, and look forward to havingthem back in Taiwan in January. Please pray forLance and Kimberly as they prepare to return!


August, 2008 - General Fund




Expenses 6,699.00



Thank you for your partnership!

jjergj Th^ere &_Everywhere EMILY - (from http://emHyatkin.bloqspot.com) "I had two Arabic classesthis morning. One is Modern Standard Arabic (used in formal ways), and one is colloquial (used in normal everydaylife). I will also be taking a Contemporary Arab Women Writers course. I have a meeting tomorrow with a man incharge of the Center for Arab Security Studies. Hopefully by the end of the week I will know whether or not I willbe interning with them for the semester. =) TABITHA - my senior year has started well. I'm in both of my mom'sclasses: economics and food management. I'm also her TA - I guess I'll have to be good! :-0 NOAH -

December 2008Vol. XI, No. 12

PRAY WITH US

• Christmas programs

• 2009 & beyond vision

• Lance & Kimberly

• Emily returning to US

• Brenda's new MCA task

• Discovery Documentary

• James Chang in LA

• 2009 furlough plans

Join our weekly e-mail prayerupdate

"Time for Taiwan"

For important prayer needs!


Dave & Brenda Atkin


Nan Tun District


[email protected]

Forwardina Aqent:

Jeff & Karen Graham


Savoy. IL 61874-0143(217)[email protected]

Team ExpansionDavid & Brenda Atkin East Asia

ImmanuelImmanuel, meaning "God with us," is the heart of the Christian faith, andwhat separates Christianity from all others. That God would choose to become flesh, live among us, die in our place and today live in our hearts isthe mystery we preach and the reason for the joy we share. The love thatpermeates this message is beyond our comprehension, as is the sacrificethat removed the stains of my sin forever! This is the "Good News of greatjoy" ~ for ail people!

It is a privilege to be partnered with you, and have the opportunity to sharethis message with those who have yet to hear. What a difference theGospel makes in the lives of those who previously had no hope! What anew life the Immanuel brings!

cc8 ill '08!" This was our theme and goal for 2008 ~ to have 8 cellgroups meeting regularly by the end of 2008. Did we make it? YES! Mon. -2 groups, Tues. - 2 groups. Wed. - 1 group, Fri. - 1 group, and Sat. - 2groups! We praise God for hearing our prayers and opening the doors forus! What's next - "20/20 Vision!"

2008 in ReviewAverage worship attendance climbed steadily in2008 from 25 to 40 soulsattending worship eachLord's Day. Our 8 weeklycell groups have morethan 60 people attendingeach week.

The Come ChristianChurch also ordained

Evangelist Chuck Huang,and pays his PT salary.

There were 12 decisions

in '08: 8 by baptism and 4by transfer.

Our team grew, as Lanceand Kim joined us!

David was chairman of

the '08 TMF conference

and dean of the S & Ecamp. Both events werea great blessing! PTL!

deett mtA tAia-

& &<Mte iovcf

Thanksgivinqr in LotunaThough several of our FCM/TE families were Inthe US on home assignment, we still had awonderful time of fellowship at the Home ofGod s Love orphanage.

Team Expansion: David & BrendaAtkin

November, 2008 - General Fund




Expenses 3,566.32


Petailed financial report mailed to all supporters.

i\\ gifts to this ministry are tax deductible!Thank you for your partnership!

Christmas PlansRather than planning one big event, our church has elected to plan several smaller Christmas outreach and fellowship events. Each cell group is having their own outreach and Christmas program- with the goal of every one bringing at least one. The Tues. morning Ladles cell is hosting a Sat.morning brunch. On Sat. Dec. 20, we'll go Christmas caroling throughout the neighborhood. OnSunday, Dec. 21, we'll be having an all-church fellowship dinner (in Chinese, "Love meal"). OnChristmas Eve, Brenda will host our annual open house and we'll invite all our neighbors for a timeof fellowship. Though Christmas is not a holiday Taiwan celebrates, we hope to make it a specialtime for those who are hearing the Christmas story for the first time. Won't you join us in prayerfor these!

Fnrlottcyh 2009As 2009 fast approaches, we've begun to really firm-up plans for our home service, from June -December, 2009. Lord willing, we're scheduled for several VBS's, we plan to attend the NACC andNMC, we'll also spend a week teaching at Cincinnati Christian University and we'll be attendingTeam Expansion s Team Leader Summit. One of our partner churches has even already scheduled us for their fall community outreach event! What about your church? Are we on your calendar? We hope to visit ever partner church, so please e-mail us:datkin(^eamexpansion.org . Thank you for your partnership with us! Happy Holidays toyou and yours! '-•-'David & Brenda Atkin

atkin david brenda 2008 taiwan

Documents

thankthe lord

taiwan national news

great time of fellowship

kim hageman

church planting

team expansions japan

comechristian church

great need