Friends and Family,
It’s hard to believe that the Schnee-clan has been in SD (Encinitas to be precise) for 6 months. Aria is dancing in tutus all over the living room and Violet is already the cutest 5 month old on the west coast. We were warned, but it’s really something when you see time fly.
We are blessed, and much of that is because of you. So, at the outset, let us thank you for your friendship, partnership, prayers, support, and love. Please continue to pray for us. We need it, and are confident it makes a difference.
Below are a few updates we hope you’ll give a look-see. I’ve tried to consolidate the highlights. I could write a page on each, but then you’d hit the delete button. If you would like any more info on any aspect of the following, I’m always available via email or phone. Actually, we have a nice fold out couch (thanks Aunt Susan), so why not just cruise on out for a visit.
Ministry:
*My training in pastoral ministry (preaching, teaching, shepherding, leading, initiating, and discipleship) continues to grow and develop here at NCPC (ncpcfamily.org).
*This last Sunday I preached on the 6th petition of the Lord’s prayer (“lead us not…”): http://www.ncpcfamily.org/services/sunday/sermons/4108-lead-us-not-into-temptation
*I’m learning from Elder and Staff meetings, leading a great community group, helping with Book-n-brew, and getting lots of humbling counseling opportunities.
*As a few of you know, I’ve been invited to help lead a trip to Israel in March. It’s a once in a life time opportunity, and I am honored to attend. Thanks to a generous scholarship from NCPC and some savings from my job at Liberty, the cost of this trip does not require the use of any of our support funds.
*Ordination is moving forward. God willing, I’ll be able to transfer in to the PCA (http://pcanet.org/) in September. In the mean time, lots of study and writing for my upcoming exams.
Mission:
*Recently we hosted an informal Condo Outreach. Basically, we’re seeking to be intentional about having our neighbors over, serving people as best we can, and building community through hospitality in Pacific Pines (which is not that close to the pacific, but does have some nice pine trees). As you can imagine, Caite is responsible for making our a domicile a place people actually want to enter.
*Another way I’m on mission here is as a “board member” of the newly minted Harbor Ministry Institute. HMI seeks to provide a God-centered education (including an accredited MA in conjunction with RTS) with a local church feel and a missional emphasis. I am very excited to be a part of this venture, and recently had several fruitful meetings with Andy Peterson, the President of RTSVirtual. Things are moving forward quickly. If you’d like a little taste of HMI, see this promo video: http://vimeo.com/57995840
*Caite continues to have opportunities to sing, write music (including a really cool new version of the Doxology), and exercise her gifts. Even though we’re no longer in NM, a song she wrote will be featured on Desert Springs Psalterium Vol 2. Here’s a witty/weird promo:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Jii3s_UFjo. And here’s a link to her website for a taste of her original music: http://caitelen.bandcamp.com/
On the Move:
*Pending the possibility of a merger between NCPC and Harbor North County we’ve had several wonderful prayer meetings and a unifying men’s retreat. Our pray is that God would give both churches clarity, and that if it be his will, we would truly be better off together.
*Renewal is a central theme of our goal as two like minded churches. We are praying that God molds us into a people that seek grace renewal in all areas of life. This means we are all being challenged to see the kingdom come outside the church, in mercy, community outreach, the marketplace, and gospel-justice works in and with the city.
Support:
*Caite and I are continually amazed at how the Lord has provided for us. We’ve faced some challenges, but since we stepped out of the boat six months ago our calling is continually confirmed. It’s a tough economy, and we’re in an expensive spot, but each month we have what we need to work, serve, and minister here.
*On the numbers side, we’re at around 90% of our needed monthly support. All I can say is thank you. More info here: https://graceandmissionca.wordpress.com/
Pictures: I’ve attached a few recent shots of the fam. Caite puts lots of pics on Facebook if you’re interested in seeing more of the kids.
Well, that’s an overview of all things SchneeFam. Please know you are in our thoughts and prayers, and we are here if you need anything. Also, if you’d like to be removed from this list, just shoot me an email.
Greg, Caite, Aria, and Baby-V
Grace and Mission in CA 