The "Open Hearts" or "befreit leben" leaders' training conference Sept. 28 - Oct. 6
· The week was extremely intense. As leaders we had limited time for personal reflection, yet we experienced health, strength, wisdom, joy and much more ...
· These pictures with radiant smiles testify to God's healing and transforming power!
· For many in our small groups, it was the first time that they "shared their secret" of abuse or hurt with someone.

Our Salzburg church camp October 19 - 21
· Our church has suffered in recent years from internal conflicts and tensions. The church was handicapped by a polarization between several people. Prior to the weekend many were considering other alternatives - some wanted to leave, others thought the church should shut its doors, others had cautious hope for a "new day".
· However, we sensed God in our midst. People openly shared of their frustrations, failures, but spoke forgiveness and trust to each other. The coldness and snow were outside but not within our hearts.

Prayer items:
· The healthy continuation and development of the Salzburg church.
· Our preparations for our upcoming Ministry in North America (MINA).
· Many details, five sermons, numerous counseling sessions, to attend to here.
· Help our children, Andrew & Silke move into their newly built townhouse.
· All itinerary plans for visiting churches, Bible study groups, family - many emails and phone calls need to be made!
· We arrive in Saskatoon on December 7th - in time for Hazel's father's 90th birthday on the 10th.

We look forward to seeing you soon!
Richard & Hazel Funk