Nica News Blog

Nica News 2/8

Don Gillette — Thu, 09 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Acts 15: 36 “And after some days, Paul said to Barnabas, ‘Let us return and visit the brothers in every city where we proclaimed the word of the Lord, and see how they are.’”

A team composed of missionaries from Bedford and Charlottesville, Virginia have been here this week serving local villages. Today we visited El Patanal, a village that is planting a new church by Pastor Rinaldo. About half of the team has visited this village before. During our God Moments discussion, Dr. Donald mentioned that there have improvements in this village since the church was started. Praise the Lord for His work in the lives of these people. This is an encouragement to the Charlottesville team as this is their first visit to Nicaragua.

Pastor’s training took place at the training center today. 18 pastors from 16 different villages came to learn about how Jesus is revealed in the Pentateuch. The pastor’s wives were meeting to discuss common issues and to receive encouragement and love from each other and some of the pastor’s wives on the team. The team also watched the pastor’s children and shared the gospel with them. What a blessing to all involved!

Construction continues with the crew taking debris to the dump. They also took food and shared the gospel there. One seven year old on the team even shared his Goldfish crackers! It is inspiring to see children making the connection that if there is a need they have the God given ability to fill it.

Nicaragua is doing more for the team than the team could ever do for Nicaragua! Praise the Lord!

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

Nica News 7, 2012

Don Gillette — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Tuesday night and another full day of service for the Lord is in the books.

Isaiah 55:10-11 "For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth,  making it bring forth and sprout,  giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater,  so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty,  but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it.

A wide array of work was done today, radio ministry with first time testimonies, construction work and gardening at the training center, Dr. Chris and Dr. Bill were in Honduras for day 2 of training 22 Pastors, which will continue tomorrow with 25 more Pastors for the next 2 days. This afternoon, we were blessed to go to El Pajuil, where we engaged the community. The locals laughed over orange eating contests, while many played soccer and all were fed, both food and the Gospel. All of the labor of the missionaries is simply watering the earth with the love of Christ, so that His word may not return empty and we are humbled to be here.

As we prepare to share our God moments, each one of us will have a special moment or for most, “moments”. You know, that moment in time when things seem to stand still, your vision is crystal clear and you are all but certain Jesus is standing by your side. It’s sometimes called “walking in the scriptures” and it’s an amazing moment, and they happen every day here in Nicaragua. Actually, they happen ever day; everywhere, but sometimes we are just too busy to see them.

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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Nica News 2/6

Don Gillette — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 06:00:00 GMT

After 2 long days of travel to Nicaragua, our team arrived in Somotillo just in time for a hot dinner on Sunday evening! After a good night sleep we were ready to get to work Monday morning! We have a big team from Virginia! We have a group from Portico Church in Charlottesville and from Bedrock Church in Bedford! It is so exciting to see that almost half of the team is here on their very first mission trip! So awesome to see their excitement and enthusiasm to serve the people of Nicaragua!

What an awesome day on the mission field today! Starting with a 6 am wake up call that was surprisingly quiet compared to Donald’s normal banging on the door! Pastor Bill and Pastor Chris headed out to Honduras for pastor training for 2 days. We continue to pray for their time in Honduras. We have received word that they have 20 pastors that have showed up for training! That is an incredible testimony to God’s grace! After a yummy breakfast, a group of team members headed off to the radio station to share their testimonies! The rest of us stayed at the Casa and listened as they shared their testimonies! We even got to hear part of the team sing Revelation Song over the radio! One of the younger team members shared her testimony for the first time as a first time missionary! It was a precious moment! Donald mentioned that she was no longer one of the 90% of Christians that have never shared their faith! Many firsts were happening today! I always love to hear Donald’s “Hallelujah” after each person shares on the radio! I believe it echoes what each of us are feeling as we listen!

After the radio ministry we got to work on The Training Center! With such a large team we were able to accomplish a lot today! The ladies got to work chopping the veggies for the stew, while other team members worked hard on the office building, and worked cleaning up sticks and rocks from around the property! Most of the team was covered in layer of dirt by late morning! After a quick cleanup, we ate lunch and got everything ready for the village ministry!

We headed out for Villa Esperanza this afternoon! With the trucks packed full of clothes, toys, food, candy and missionaries, we headed out with hearts full of anticipation! The whole team immediately began to light up as we threw out clothes and toys to the people standing by! The joy on their faces as they saw how much it meant to the people here was incredible. When we arrived in the village, everyone began to work together to engage the villagers! From water balloons to soccer and nail painting and coloring, we worked hard to share Jesus with the people! The doctor was able to give out medication to the sick! As always, there was our super fun watermelon eating contest! The crowd cheered as they laughed and watched the kids eat! We ended our time in the village with feeding the people a hot stew. They lined up with their bowls or pots or whatever they could find to put their stew in! We left knowing that those precious people would go to bed tonight with a full stomach, but more importantly that they had been given the opportunity to know Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Savior and that several people prayed to receive Christ!

As we left today and as I write this I am reminded of Ephesians 2:10 that says “For we are God’s workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do!” God has a plan for each of us and that plan includes good works! Whether that plan includes work in North America, Nicaragua or another part of the world, we must do what God created us to do, no matter what that is! Blessings to you as you follow Christ in whatever HE has planned for you!

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

Shop and help feed Nicaraguans!

Don Gillette — Sun, 29 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

www.longaberger.com/bwcm

Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age."

--Matthew 28:16-20

Help raise money for Nicaragua by purchasing Longaberger Products. All proceeds will go directly to distributing food and clothing; and helping to build homes, schools, churches and clinics for the people of Nicaragua. In order for us to raise the funds, all orders my be placed on our website: www.longaberger.com/bwcm. Thank you for helping us! Please forward this email to friends who might like Longaberger as well.

Regular Products may be purchased 24/7 on the website. If you have specific questions about products, you may call Tammy at 540-353-2292.

Each week there are specials that we will email to you. Please place your order directly on the site with your shipping address and credit card info. Orders will be shipped directly to you!

Blessings!

Tuesday Only!

Wednesday Only!

You may also host Catalog/Cyber Shows with your friends so that you can:

Raise Money for Because We Care Ministries

plus

Earn Free Products for your own home

Call 540-353-2292 and speak with Tammy about how to do this.

Your orders need to be over $150 of our regular products and include the

"Tuesday or Wednesday" Specials.

Thank You!

Please remember to load you BWCM/Kroger gift card also! For every dollar spent we receive 5% to support our work in Nicaragua. You can be a blessing to someone today by shopping at Kroger and support BWCM at the same time!

To learn about Because We Care Ministries, visit our website at:

www.bwcm.org

Because We Care Ministries | P. O. Box 21806 | Roanoke | VA | 24018

Nica News 1/17

Don Gillette — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Revelation 17:14

English Standard Version (ESV)

¹⁴ They will make war on the Lamb, and the Lamb will conquer them, for he is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with him are called and chosen and faithful.”

     I need to start this letter by simply apologizing to all for complaining a little about being tired. I'm preaching through Isa. 53 on the radio in the mornings and when I look at all the suffering JESUS endured for me it literally broke my heart to think that I could complain just a little. I want to be found in the faithful, I know I'm call and I know that I'm chosen but sometimes I'm not as faithful as I could be.
     Another great day of service here at the training center and out in the field. It seems that when we have one small victory here at the training center there are two defeats that slow us down. We took a load of squash to the market to sell and no one had a clue what squash was or what to do with it. Lesson learned, research the local market and see what sells and is needed. We did manufacture 300 lbs of chicken feed from products grown here and added a little protein and vitamins which means we will save about $100.00 a month on our feed bill.
     This afternoon we went to La Ceibita (New Village) with the Dr and a load of food. Words really can't describe the excitement and joy experienced by the mission team and the locals when the big trucks rolls in. These children had never experienced the water melon eating contest, water balloon toss or had their finger nails polished. Even more impressive is the fact that many had never heard the GOSPEL MESSAGE until today. What makes all that exciting is that a large number of men, women, boys and girls prayed to receive CHRIST. With all the fun we have engaging the village nothing can top KINGDOM BUILDING.    IHL, Donald and Pammie

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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Nica News 1/16

Don Gillette — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Deuteronomy 24:19

"When you are harvesting your crops and forget to bring in a bundle of grain from your field, don't go back to get it. Leave it for the foreigners, orphans, and widows. Then the LORD your God will bless you in all you do"

Tonight as I think about the energy that has been put into the production of different crops here at the training center this passage of scripture came to mind. We have turned the corner on a few fields and will certainly praise GOD for all that HE has done. Today several different vegetables were harvested and taken to the market to be sold. We don't have to advertise the harvest

it seems our neighbors know before we do. When I look at this verse then I have to think its GODS way of providing.
So very thankful for everyone that has helped with this project. I think the next big challenge will be keeping the momentum that has started and continue on a steady course of growth. It now seems that our goal of having training classes by early summer is obtainable. (Prayers Please)
As excited as I am over the harvest here at the center, it doesn't begin to compare to the joy in heaven over 3 teenagers and 1 adult man that prayed to receive CHRIST last night at Prince of Peace Baptist Church. Thankful that GOD allowed me to part of both harvest. IHS, Donald and Pammie

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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Nica News 11/2012

Don Gillette — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Eph 6:10, Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.....

     Well the teams are gone and the house (Casa De Shelly) is very quite. Pam and I are very thankful for a few days rest and preparation. Sunday we visited a church in Managua where I was privileged to preach the word and see 12 adults make professions of faith. Nothing more exciting than to watch the Kingdom of God grow and see GOD glorified. Please pray for Jesus is the Good Shepard church, they truly are a great group of believers.
     Today we had a new group of pastors come for a day of leadership training. Found out early this morning that some of the leaders were told the class started at 9 AM, others were told 9:30AM and the rest arrived around 10:15 AM. Things like that happen here all the time, it's the Nica way. Found out after class that several of these men will be joining our regular classes that will start back in Feb. One thing that Pastor Diomedes was seeking to accomplish today was to build unity among the leaders.
     Later this afternoon Pam and I hooked the electrical cords to two machines we have purchased so the training center can produce food for the chickens and goats. Our teams last week built a new shed for the machines and today we saw them work. PRAISE YE THE LORD....We now have the capacity to grow and grind our on live stock feed. One more step in making the training center productive and sustainable. Our goal is to get the center where it can sustain itself and provide services to the community.   Tomorrow I'm filming a segment for the local TV about squash. It's not grown here so I'm going to introduce the viewers to squash then we'll look for a vendor in the market to sell our product. I can't believe I'm doing this....It's all about Jesus...
     Please pray for our WV team that will be traveling on Sat. IHL, Donald and Pammie

Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

See the full gallery on Posterous

: Raise Funds for Nicaragua!

Don Gillette — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

www.longaberger.com/bwcm

--Matthew 28:16-20

Regular Products may be purchased 24/7 on the website. If you have specific questions about products, you may call Tammy at 540-353-2292.

Each week there are specials that we will email to you. Please place your order directly on the site with your shipping address and credit card info. Orders will be shipped directly to you!

Blessings!

This week's Specials

_________________________________________________________

Monthly Features

COMING IN FEBRUARY!

You may also host Catalog/Cyber Shows with your friends so that you can:

Raise Money for Because We Care Ministries

plus

Earn Free Products for your own home

Call 540-353-2292 and speak with Tammy about how to do this.

Your orders need to be over $150 of our regular products and cannot include the

"Tuesday or Wednesday" Specials.

Thank You!

To learn about Because We Care Ministries, visit our website at:

www.bwcm.org

Because We Care Ministries | P. O. Box 21806 | Roanoke | VA | 24018

Nica News 1/5

Don Gillette — Thu, 05 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Today, the backpacking team returned to the Casa de Shelly. The first night we left for Mount El Bariador starting at 1,620 ft. We finally set our packs down at 2,800 ft after five hours of rolling hills. We set up camp outside the house where the previous team had visited year before. We found out that the solar bible reader that was left the previous year was still working and in use regularly. They told us that they meet every three days for church. Lots of people from the village came to the church service that night. We sang songs and Jonge preached. That night, we had a nice cool breeze from over the mountain to help us sleep. Then the next day, we hiked the rest of the way up to the summit of the mountain which was at 4,000 ft. God’s creation is unfathomable!! We could see the whole valley. After lunch we continued to another village called Por Vason. During the service, Jonge opened with Psalms 66:16 and several from the team shared what God has done in their life. It was so cool because a lot of the people there we not Christians, but they were listening very attentively to the testimonies. Because our team was diverse, every person listening could relate to one of our testimonies. After service we made balloon animals and gave out toys, toothbrushes, Bibles and food to the people and they loved it! The next morning we hiked to our next village called San Pedro, which was by far the largest village we had been in. The service that night was packed with people! Then the next day, we got up at 6:00am to go back to the Casa de Shelly. In total we hiked 17 ½ miles with a total accumulated ascent of 8,000 ft. We reached a lot of people and planted seeds in the hearts of many! The hikes were long and strenuous but we would all gladly do it again. Our team verse was 2 Corinthians 12:15 “I will most gladly spend and be spent for your souls.” We leave for Managua tomorrow challenged to share the gospel at home with the same overwhelming passion as we did here in Nicaragua.

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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Nica News 1/04/2012

Don Gillette — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Today, Wednesday, January 04, 2012 we began our morning at 6 AM excited about what God had in store today. After breakfast four team members gave their testimony on the radio. We were then given work assignments to help support the ministry. Some were in the garden while others worked on the new office building. After lunch we headed to the village of Jinocuajo where the young men were engaged in kicking the soccer ball while the women and little girls had their nails painted and some colored. We shared the gospel with each group while Donald prepared soup for the village. The mothers and children lined up and seemed so appreciative for a warm meal. We passed out packages of beans and rice for future meals. As we drove home it was exciting to see children and adults run to the edge of the road to receive the clothes, dolls, flip-flops, and candy that we threw from the truck. What a blessing to share God’s love by this simple act of giving to those in such need. I am reminded that there are no language or boundary barriers when it comes to conveying the love of Jesus.

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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Nica News 1/03/2012

Don Gillette — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Another beautiful morning here at Casa De Shelly! After breakfast, some radio testimonials, and a market run, we headed out into the “training Facility”. The girls worked in the fields digging holes so we could replant some cabbage later. The guys poured concrete floor for a new shed. 5 cubic yards of concrete!! But we got it done; we really didn’t have a choice. Donald would not let us eat lunch until we finished. We did hear from the Extreme Team today, all is well, but apparently extremely windy, 60 plus mph. Today’s village was San Francisco South. Along the way we threw candy and essentials to the people lining the roadside. On the way to the village we were stopped by the Nicaraguan Army at a check point. We pressed on. At the village, we played soccer, painted nails and blew bubbles with the kids, medical attention was given if needed, and we shared the word of God. Most of the kids were aware of Christ and his love for them, Amen! We ended with the meal we had prepared. Upon arrival back to base, we were put to work again, of course. We had to transplant all the cabbage that we had prepared for earlier. Finally it was time to clean up and have another awesome meal by Mama Maria and her girls. After dinner, we had time to relax and reflect on the day, by sharing our God moments with the group.

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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Nica News 1/2

Don Gillette — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 06:00:00 GMT

Acts 1:8

King James Version (KJV)

⁸But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

Great first day on the mission field as the team had a chance to rest and get settled in. Early afternoon found part of the team engaged in a very intense soccer match while we prepared lunch and just engaged the rest of the village. Last night found us at Prince of Peace Baptist Church an the worship team was on vacation. No problem, mission team stepped in and led worship. I thought the beginning of the service was a little difficult, it only got worse. As Jonge began to share the word of God it seemed as if the the whole city began to set off fire works. Needless to say it was very distracting but yet a little funny. I seem to have forgotten the locals like to celebrate on New Years night and not new years eve. Any way, please pray for the extreme team as they head to the mountains this morning and the rest of our team as we spread the word here in Somotillo. IHS, Donald and Pammie

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

Nica News - 12/30

Don Gillette — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Psalm 116:12-14 (NASB) (12) What shall I render to the LORD for all His benefits toward me?
(13) I shall lift up the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the LORD.
(14) I shall pay my vows to the LORD, oh may it be in the presence of all His people."

Thanksgiving. What do you think about when you hear the word Thanksgiving? Possibly, your mind connects with the year 1621 where "after the first harvest in a new world," Governor Bradford of the Plymouth Colony invited the Pilgrims to keep a day of prayer, praise, and thanksgiving. On the other hand, maybe your memory carries you back into history, in 1863, after the bloody Battle of Gettysburg. After this battle, President Abraham Lincoln urged the nation to observe a day of prayer and thanksgiving on the last Thursday of November. Traditionally, you may think about the Thanksgiving meal with family and friends. Truly, thanksgiving triggers many memories for us.

First and foremost, Thanksgiving must remind us to thank God for His many benefits. Psalm 116 is such a psalm that teaches us from God's Word how we can practically give thanks to God. Throughout this entire psalm, the writer freely uses the word "I." His use of the word "I" makes this psalm a psalm that each one of us as individuals can use to guide us in thanking God for His goodness.

But how can we give back to God for all his goodness toward us when God needs nothing? In Romans 11 verse 35, Paul asks this very question, "who has first given to Him that it might be paid back to Him again?" No one can give God anything , for verse 36 goes on to tell us that "from Him and through Him and to Him are all things." Every good gift comes from God.

As we close out 2011 Pam and I want to thank everyone for their many prayers and support over the years. 2011 we were able to present the gospel to thousands, help many with medical care, food for their survival and food for their spiritual growth. You helped make all this possible and for that we give thanks. It might sound simple but truly it would be impossible for us to have done this without the support of so many and for these we say thank you. In His Love, Donald and Pammie

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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12/30

Don Gillette — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Hola! Today was another wonderful day on the mission field! This morning the boys went back out to the training field to continue working with the crops, while part of the team went back out to a village to see a family that was in need of a bike repair. After meeting back up at the Casa, the team gathered 60 bags of food and toys to head out to Santa Teresa. While we were there, each child was given a toy and the mothers received toothpaste, tooth brushes, shampoo, packages of rice and bags of food. Each Family received a whole bag filled with oil, rice, beans, soap, sugar and cookies. The soup was also prepared in the village and each person received a bowl to eat. This was a huge blessing to the village and that was evident and demonstrated through a woman named Berta. She addressed the team and mentioned how she had been praying for a miracle and for the team to come to Santa Teresa because she had no food and had no clue how she was going to feed her family that evening. God once again orchestrated the amazing placement for the team provided a miracle for this family and many others.

After lunch the team once again packed the truck full of candy, clothes and toys to head out to El Aredo. There were was again 60 bags prepared to hand out to the families of this village. When the team arrived in the village the young children and their families quickly pilled behind the truck to see what the team had brought. The team shared Christ through the story of the candy cane and each person received a candy cane. This village was very happy to have the team their today and after all the food was passed out the team played marbles and sang songs with all the children. God greatly provided today and the team was able to bless many people through His hands. Thank you everyone for your prayers and support! We will have another update tomorrow! Adios!

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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Nica News 12/28

Don Gillette — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Today was a wonderful day on the mission field. This morning we began our day with a reading from God’s Word, from Isaiah 40. After breakfast we worked on the training center, tilling the corn field, and some of us went to the supermarket to pick up ingredients for the stew! After our morning activities we loaded up everything to go to Villa Esperanza. On the way there we did roadside ministry, and we passed out clothes, food and toys and when we got there we began cooking the stew to pass out to all the people. Everybody found their element, the boys were playing football with the children, the girls were busy painting fingernails and some of us were busy preparing the large meal. So far we have passed out over two hundred bags of food, which will feed a family for about a week and around 360 rice bags that will feed a family of six for a night. This afternoon we set out for Cofradia and our way we passed by the dump. On our way we came across a family, they were carrying three large bags of plastic, which they had accumulated throughout the day. This family collects plastic out of the dump to sell and recycle. When we handed the mother a bag of food and some clothes, she told us that this morning she had wondered how she was going to feed her family that night. Tonight we collected food, clothes and toys to give out to the police department, for their children for Christmas. God is so good, we have seen His mighty hand at work this week and we look forward to the amazing things that he is going to do during the rest of this week. Thank you for your prayers! They are greatly appreciated! God is working and moving in the lives of the people and in our lives as well.

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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Nica News 12/27

Don Gillette — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Great first day of Christmas for the team and people of Somotillo. Thankful this morning for safe travels and a great afternoon of giving out Manna Fest bags and Christmas Joy. Yesterday we did an afternoon of door to door ministry where we were able to not only give out the food bags and toys but also share the gospel message. Very interesting response at several stops as the families acknowledged they already knew Christ.
Today we are going to fill some of the Christmas request, police dept. and gifted school and then village ministry. This afternoon we will do more door to door ministry, giving out food, toys and The Gospel. Please pray for this team as we go about Gods work and for the team that will be traveling here this Sat. IHS, Donald and Pammie

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

NicaNews 12/24

Don Gillette — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

It is good to be children sometimes, and never better than at Christmas, when its mighty Founder was a child Himself!

On the eve of my 62nd Christmas my heart is full of joy and excitement. My mind is racing a hundred miles an hour as I look deep into my soul to remember many of those Christmas Days. I think about one many years ago on Hill 37 in Vietnam, a young man sitting in a foxhole late at night and thinking about all the festivities back in the states. Little did I know some 40+ years later I would be in the parking lot at Wal-Mart giving gifts to complete strangers.

I'm most thankful tonight for the gift of GOD'S amazing grace that was given to me more than 35 years ago. Little did I know that day in Gatlinburg, Tennessee what God had in store for me, but I can truly say it has been an amazing journey.

Pam and I just began our twelfth year of service in Nicaragua. We thank GOD for all that we have seen GOD do over the past 11 years and are very excited about what He is going to do in us and through us in 2012. We ask that you continue to pray for us and the dear people of Nicaragua. We will be praying for you and look forward to seeing you in Somotillo very soon.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men in whom He is well pleased. Luke 2:14 ESV

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

Raise funds for Nicaragua and go christmas shopping too!

Don Gillette — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

www.longaberger.com/bwcm

--Matthew 28:16-20

Regular Products may be purchased 24/7 on the website. If you have specific questions about products, you may call Tammy at 540-353-2292.

Each week there are specials that we will email to you. Please place your order directly on the site with your shipping address and credit card info. Orders will be shipped directly to you!

Blessings!

This week's Specials

Not too late to order Christmas Gifts!

Order today, December 21 and get half price Priority Shipping!

Go to www.longaberger.com/shop

to shop!

You may also host Catalog/Cyber Shows with your friends so that you can:

Raise Money for Because We Care Ministries

plus

Earn Free Products for your own home

Call 540-353-2292 and speak with Tammy about how to do this.

Your orders need to be over $150 of our regular products and cannot include the

"Tuesday or Wednesday" Specials.

Thank You!

To learn about Because We Care Ministries, visit our website at:

www.bwcm.org

Because We Care Ministries | P. O. Box 21806 | Roanoke | VA | 24018

Nica News - 12/18

Don Gillette — Sun, 18 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Isaiah 61

¹ The Spirit of the Lord GOD is upon me,
   because the LORD has anointed me
to bring good news to the poor;^[a]
   he has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim liberty to the captives,
   and the opening of the prison to those who are bound

     So very thankful on this morning for the opportunities that GOD has put before me. Because of HIS amazing GRACE we can face every challenge with excitement and peace knowing that the victory is HIS. I will say that as we come to the end of 2011 it hasn't been without it's challenges and difficulties. We always remind our missions teams, there is a reason Paul wrote in Ephesians 6 about putting on the whole armor of GOD, we forget that we are in Spiritual Warfare and the enemy is not going to let the road be easy.
     2011 was and exciting year for Pam and I as BWCM began to change directions and we were able to be more involved in the work in Nicaragua. We are VERY thankful for all the teams that joined us in serving the people of Nicaragua, thankful for all the pastors that helped with the training center, thankful for the provisions that helped to meet the needs of thousands of locals. A very special Thank You to all our friends, both churches and individuals, that supported us financially in 2011. It's very easy to say that where GOD leads HE provides and HE does but it's another thing to take that next step and you helped us to do that.
     2012 looks to be just as exciting as GOD continues to fill the calendar with teams, many that have served with us in the past an several that will travel to Nicaragua for the first time. Our pastor training is already scheduled for the first 3 months both in Nicaragua and Honduras. I was approached last month by the president of the Nicaragua Baptist Convention about teaching in other parts of the country. That's truly something we will have to pray about and seek God's will and guidance. Because of the generosity of MANY the construction of the clinic will start back after Christmas and with much prayer be completed in 2012. This past year the training center went through an amazing transformation due to the technical support of many. This next year we will continue to seek out people here in the states with agricultural back grounds to support that work and continue the training of the nationals.
      Our promise to you in 2012 is to continue to be faithful to our call and obedient to the leadership of the Holy Spirit. Pam and I simply ask that you continue to pray for us on a daily bases and remember, It's All About Jesus.....MERRY CHRISTMAS AND HAPPY NEW YEAR

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

Shop for Chritmas and raise funds for Nicaragua!

Don Gillette — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

www.longaberger.com/bwcm

--Matthew 28:16-20

Help raise money for Nicaragua by purchasing Longaberger Products. All proceeds will go directly to distributing food and clothing; and helping to build homes, schools, churches and clinics for the people of Nicaragua. In order for us to raise the funds, all orders my be placed on our website: www.longaberger.com/bwcm or click the "Shop Now" buttons and order from the flyer. Either way it will help raise funds for Because we Care Ministries! Thank you for helping us! Please forward this email to friends who might like Longaberger as well.

Regular Products may be purchased 24/7 on the website. If you have specific questions about products, you may call Tammy at 540-353-2292.

Each week there are specials that we will email to you. Please place your order directly on the site with your shipping address and credit card info. Orders will be shipped directly to you!

Blessings!

Order by December 15 to guarantee

Delivery by Christmas!

Daily Specials-see the day / time at top of each Ad!

You may also host Catalog/Cyber Shows with your friends so that you can:

Raise Money for Because We Care Ministries

plus

Earn Free Products for your own home

Call 540-353-2292 and speak with Tammy about how to do this.

Your orders need to be over $150 of our regular products and cannot include the

"Tuesday or Wednesday" Specials.

Thank You!

To learn about Because We Care Ministries, visit our website at:

www.bwcm.org

Because We Care Ministries | P. O. Box 21806 | Roanoke | VA | 24018

Nica News 12/8

Don Gillette — Thu, 08 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.......

Jesus says, "If you obey my commands, you will remain in My love, just as I have obeyed My Father's commands and remain in His love. I have told you this so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends.
You are my friends if you do what I command."

A few months ago we started out on an adventure with God seeking funding for the medical clinic in Somotillo, Nicaragua. Let me remind you that we have a family that is offering to give BWCM $20,000.00 towards the completion of the clinic if we can match that amount by the end of December. It is with great joy that I report to you today that we are 3/4 of the way there and pledges are still coming in. Praise the LORD and thank you for supporting this effort towards the completion of the clinic. Last week we met with the President of the Nicaragua convention and Pastor Diomedes to discuss the daily operation of the clinic. You will be very pleased to know that Dr Briones will be joining the advisory board as well. In my last conversation with the construction team, it was confirmed that work will begin as early as two weeks from today. I can only imagine what the clinic will accomplish for the GLORY of GOD.

I also wanted to share with you that we have raised over $4,000.00 for "Manna Fest." With that said we will be able to provide food for over 400 families during Christmas.... PRAISE GOD .... We will continue to receive donations for Manna Fest until 12/15.

Once again Pam and I thank you with all our heart for supporting this ministry and the work that GOD is doing through us. In His Service, Donald and Pammie

Dr. and Mrs. Donald M. Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
www.bwcm.org

Nica News 12/1

Don Gillette — Thu, 01 Dec 2011 06:00:00 GMT

"The heart of a man plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps." Proverbs 16:9

Many times we have plans and ideas of how things will work and then God has plans that are so far beyond ours. Today I watched a man fully understand this biblical concept. Today we helped Hidalio, the pastor of Principe De Paz Church and his church members, as they served the city of Somotillo. All year long we have been training the pastors from this area and we have always talked about "being the church". We have encouraged them to get outside of the four walls of the church and engage their communities. We have talked about being servant leaders and the value of loving people the way that Jesus did. Then this Wednesday, at the last pastors conference of the year, we asked for prayer requests before we prayed. Hidalio asked that we pray for his church to fulfill this commission to "be the church" and he asked specifically for God to raise up 12 people to go and engage the city of Somotillo. That simple request was all it took. We began to think and dream and we came up with an idea. One of the members of the team had brought some firefighting gear to donate to the local fire station. So we gathered up that gear, invited the police department, the fire department, and the Mayor's office and staff to join us for lunch at Rancho Katin. Within 24 hours of the prayer request 14 (not 12) people from Principe De Paz volunteered to come and serve, we grabbed a few people just to cook, and off we went to build relationships and engage the community. The program was to begin at 10:00 with a presentation of the gear and then lunch. At 10:00 nobody had shown up. 10:30 we had 1 person there. That is when Hidalio began to get nervous and have some second thoughts. So we prayed! At 11:00 we had 14 local leaders who showed up for the lunch! 4 from the police station, 4 from the fire department, and 4 from the local mayor's office and 2 from the local TV station! Yes, I said TV. The entire lunch was recorded for the local television where over 6,000 people will be able to see Principe De Paz being the church! To quote the late great coach Jim Valvano, "Don't give up. Don't ever give up." God is on his throne and is able to do BIG things. We learned, just like Elijah did on Mount Carmel, that if you stick your neck out there for God, he will always provide. So whatever you are struggling with today, whatever you have been waiting on for so long, whatever it is that you are thinking about quitting, don't. God is still there and his plans for you are good.

"Now to him who is able to do far. More abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be the glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever, Amen.". Ephesians 3:20-21

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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Nica News Nov 30

Don Gillette — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 06:00:00 GMT

We have had another amazing day on the mission field today. We started bright and early with Alice sharing a devotion to encourage us not to grow weary in doing good. After breakfast burritos we headed outside at the Casa to work on the chicken house and the fields. We tilled, planted and fenced until lunch, while some of the girls chopped vegetables to cook in the village. Janet even got the girls to use a little elbow grease to straighten up the rooms at the Casa while the other ladies were working outside. After lunch we packed the truck with candy and flip flops and headed up the road to El Platanal. What a fun village! The children were happy to have their nails painted and to color pictures. The nurse saw many people that needed medical help. We cooked a big pot of chicken, rice and vegetables and filled their bowls and their tummies. We also filled their hearts with Jesus. When we got back we all got to help our team mate, Teresa, celebrate her birthday in Nicaragua. She got to experience a Nica birthday tradition of having a raw egg busted on her head topped with a cup of flour. Then we enjoyed chocolate birthday cake with banana icing. God is doing amazing things in Nicaragua!! Continue to pray for our team as we finish out our week.

Tomorrow part of the team will join a team from Principle De Paz Baptist church and serve the community of Somotillo. The city started a volunteer fire department, one of the members of our team brought in some equipment to give to them. We will be cooking and serving lunch to the Fire Dept., Police Dept. and Mayors office. Nica church learning to engage the community and "Be the Church. God is so Good and the Kingdom grew some more today. Thank you LORD

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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Nica News Nov 28

Don Gillette — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Today in Nicaragua we started out our day with devotion time, led by Shawn. Then, Emma, Jennifer and Miranda shared their testimony on the radio. After that, the pastors taking seminary with Chris and Donald came for their classes. They also brought their wives to speak and spend time in the word with some of the ladies on the team, while the other team members worked on the chicken coop at Casa De Shelly. After the pastors and wives left we all came together to eat lunch. After lunch,we headed to a village called San Miguelito, we brought a nurse with us to provide medical help to the village, played with the children, fed everyone, and shared the gospel. When we prayed almost ten kids accepted Christ. We left the village and came back to the casa this afternoon. After cooling off and getting cleaned up (washing off our blessings, as Donald says), some of the team visited the market. There we toured and got a ride back to the casa on a pedi-taxi. While others stayed back and worked some more on the chicken coop. And that’s what we have accomplished here in Somotillo, Nicaragua today! God bless you!

Matthew 4:19

“Come, follow me, Jesus said, and I will make you fishers of men.”

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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Nica News - 11/27

Don Gillette — Sun, 27 Nov 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Today I think we can safely say we experienced one long “God Moment”. The day began with a walk around the compound as we heard of all the accomplishments that have taken place here. We all stood amazed at how God truly is everywhere no matter what country we are in. He has his people everywhere and we can see Him if we are watching. We can hear Him if we are listening. He wants to communicate with His people. His sheep know His voice and they won’t listen to any other we are told in John 10. Gods Word is the same no matter what language or country we are in. It reads the same everywhere. His love is the same everywhere. We felt His love and for the people. We saw the needs being met as He allowed us to be His hands and feet.

This afternoon we had our first "Pastors Graduation." It truly was amazing to watch these men parade into the church and receive their certificates. Pam and I are very thankful to the many men of God that have taken time out of their busy schedules to come to Nicaragua and invest in the ministry of these 16 men. I look forward to seeing what God does through them in their church as we continue to sow into them next year.

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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Shop Now and raise funds for Manna Fest 2011!

Don Gillette — Tue, 08 Nov 2011 06:00:00 GMT

Host: Donald Gillette

Closing Date: 11/21/2011

The Longaberger Fall and Winter collections are beautiful. To join my online party, click the "Shop Now" button below.

We are collecting orders to raise funds for Manna Fest 2011. You can go Christmas Shopping and help feed the people of Nicaragua at the same time. If you would like to help out click "Shop Now" and go shopping. Dated upcoming specials are below also. All profits will go to Manna Fest. Blessings....Donald

--Matthew 28:16-20

This week's Specials

The Small Classic Laundry Basket is just perfect for toting gifts or as a gift itself -

it’s sure to be a holiday favorite!

This online exclusive includes a protector with basket purchase.

Ideas:

store guest towels, sheets, or extra blankets

use as ice chest

collect dirty laundry until wash time

store recyclables use as toy basket

collect outgrown or unworn clothing to hand down or give to BWCM

holds firewood makes great gift center for party, tie helium balloons to one handle

store gift wrapping supplies

fill with stuffed animals

store clothing to be mended

holds sewing or knitting patterns and fabric or yarn

store quilt in progress

use two, one for his clothes and one for hers

or one for kids’ clothes and one for adults

store magazines and catalogs

store books, especially library books

holds shoes by door

store games

keep in back of car to secure grocery bags on way home from store

keep towels near pool

leave in car to hold jackets, raincoats, umbrellas, etc.

carry sandals and beach toys, leave out Protector and sand will go right through

bob for apples in fall

holds backpacks and lunch bags

carry gifts to holiday celebrations

Monthly Features

You may also host Catalog/Cyber Shows with your friends so that you can:

Raise Money for Because We Care Ministries

plus

Earn Free Products for your own home

Call 540-353-2292 and speak with Tammy about how to do this.

Your orders need to be over $150 of our regular products and cannot include the

"Tuesday or Wednesday" Specials.

Thank You!

To learn about Because We Care Ministries, visit our website at:

www.bwcm.org

Because We Care Ministries | P. O. Box 21806 | Roanoke | VA | 24018

Support BWCM and start Christmas shopping too!

Don Gillette — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 05:00:00 GMT

www.longaberger.com/bwcm

Click the above site to go shopping and raise funds for Because We Care Ministries!

--Matthew 28:16-20

Please forward this email to friends who might like Longaberger as well.

Regular Products may be purchased 24/7 on the website. If you have specific questions about products, you may call Tammy at 540-353-2292.

Each week there are specials that we will email to you. Please place your order directly on the site with your shipping address and credit card info. Orders will be shipped directly to you!

Blessings!

This week's Specials

All Branches of the Military Available

www.longaberger.com/bwcm

November Features

You may also host Catalog/Cyber Shows with your friends so that you can:

Raise Money for Because We Care Ministries

plus

Earn Free Products for your own home

Call 540-353-2292 and speak with Tammy about how to do this.

Your orders need to be over $150 of our regular products and cannot include the

"Tuesday or Wednesday" Specials.

Thank You!

To learn about Because We Care Ministries, visit our website at:

www.bwcm.org

Because We Care Ministries | P. O. Box 21806 | Roanoke | VA | 24018

Nica News - 10/30

Don Gillette — Sun, 30 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

A few years ago a pastor friend of ours was working on the church building when he accidentally struck a power line. To this day no one really knows how long his lifeless, burned and broken body hung from the platform that he had been working from. What we do know is that his darling wife spent almost 48 hours getting him to a hospital that would actually treat him. It's hard to imagine but they were actually turned away from two hospitals before he got to The Baptist Hospital in Managua. It doesn't have to be that way....

Mid summer one of our teams visited a village that we hadn't been in for more than a year. When God touches my heart about changing the plans for the day I know it's going to be big. On this particular day it only took a few minutes to find out what GOD was up too. Sitting under a shade tree cooking the now famous "chicken stew" they began to call my name from the church where the Dr and some of the team members were doing medical. A young mother had brought her 6 month old daughter that was suffering from pneumonia to see the Dr. and ask us to pray with her. In less than an hour they sought me once again to pray for a young girl (less than a year) that probably would have died if the Dr hadn't shown up that day. It doesn't have to be that way....

The problem in these remote villages is that most young mothers have NO way of seeking help and in many cases there is NO help to be found. Nicaragua has an infant mortality of 1 in 3 before the age of three. We could debate the problem for days and it won't change anything. It doesn't have to be that way....

We shared with you at the beginning of the month that BWCM had been given a very generous gift to be used in the construction and prayerfully the completion of the medical clinic. The gift was a $20,000.00 matching gift that we have until the end of Dec. to match. At this time we are on our way to reaching our goal with almost 1/4 of our part either in hand or pledged. Please pray about what you could do to help give many young mothers in Nicaragua an opportunity to raise their children. The medical clinic with provide a hope that many have never known. The provisions for running and staffing the facility are in place, we just need to finish the building. IHL, Donald and Pammie

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

Clinic girl

Don Gillette — Fri, 14 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

If the church would rise up and co-labor together, the doors of the clinic could be opened. When that day happens ...girls like this will receive much needed medical attention. "Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do." - John Wooden Jonge Tate lead pastor bedrock community church

Nica News 10/13

Don Gillette — Thu, 13 Oct 2011 05:00:00 GMT

Rain Rain & more rain has been the pattern of our week! It has been raining for 10 days. However, in the midst of the rain & schools being shut down, God still had a plan and places for us to go. Tyler began this morning with our devotions before we headed out to the radio. While at the radio, Tonya & Richard shared their testimonies followed by the Tate’s. Terry, Tyler, Jordan & Tabor sang “This is the day the Lord has made, I will rejoice and be glad in it.” This song’s message rang true in our hearts throughout the day.

We were able to visit two villages today despite the flooding. It was quite an adventure! We first visited Pascuala. It truly was a miracle to see the difference in this village from two years ago. Many houses have been built and established. Please continue to pray for a man named Michael, who we shared with once again, but has not yet surrendered to Christ. His family and wife are believers. We were also able to give out gifts to the children and share the gospel message through the wordless book.

This afternoon we traveled through the flooding waters to the Village of El Platanal. The village had lost all of their crops due to all the flooding from the rain. We were able to treat the sick with a doctor and nurse today. There were many sick children with respiratory issues. It has been a blessing to have 3 nurses on our team as well. We were able to cook Nica stew for about 300 people today. The people were hungry and pressing in as bowls were handed out. Today we saw the truth of God’s word in Matthew 25:35, “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me.”

It was reiterated once again, “What if the missionaries hadn’t come today?” Many would be going to bed hungry. Many would not have heard the gospel message. We would not have seen God provide for these precious faces if we hadn’t gone.

As you finish reading this Nica news, remember, “You were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another.” Galations 5:13.

Dr and Mrs. Donald M Gillette
Because We Care Ministries, Inc.
P.O. Box 21806
Roanoke, VA. 24018
WWW.BWCM.ORG

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