November 2009

Dear Friends of Contemporary Communications,

This has been quite the month! Since returning from Tanzania, I have not been feeling well. In fact, for the last three and a half to four weeks, I have definitely not been myself. It has not been diagnosed as H1N1; they just say I have a virus; so I call it the "Terry Plague". I am feeling better, getting back some of my strength, and getting back into my exercise regimentation; but I would really appreciate your prayers. I definitely have a greater appreciation for those who may be going through cancer treatments. Thinking that I felt pretty lousy - but I am feeling better - I do not necessarily have to think that in another two weeks, I have to go through the same process again. There are individuals that deal with that tupe of a roller coaster month after month. I am grateful for what God is teaching me, and I definitely have a greater heart and empathy for those people who struggle on a regular basis with illness, or whatever their disability might be.

At The River Community Church, we are seeing God work in some amazing ways. This year we participated in an Operation Christmas Child project. This is where individuals bring shoe boxes filled with small gifts and hygiene items, with the idea that they will understand that this is a small way of sharing the greatest message that can ever be shared - the message of Christ. What they are receiving will last for a period of time, but a realtionship with Christ will last for eternity.

We are also involved in our Christmas Stores. Christmas Stores are designed to provide people, who are in a spot, the opportunity to experience Christmas with diginity. Basically, people from the River buy gifts, food, packaging, etc. Then people in Livingston County and Detroit (because we are operating two stores) are able to experience Christmas with dignity. They can purchase gifts for their family at $0.20 on the dollar.

This past month, over 90 people from The River bought Life Application Bibles. They are experiencing the transformational nature of the Word of God.

I really do appreciate this time of year, even though it is almost like mach speed. The reality is that there are some traditions that allow us to be together with friends, family and people that we are involved in ministry with, in special ways. It is a special time of year. Please put on your calendars right now - and in my December letter, I will give you more details - that The River will be doing five Christmas Experiences; two on the 23rd and three on the 24th. We would love to have you be our guest.

For many months now, I have been doing a new spiritual discipline practice - Journaling. After I spend time in prayer and scripture reading, I reflect upon that which I have read and that which I think God is saying. The discipline of writing down my thoughts on what God has been saying to me personally has been invaluable.

I am excited more than ever to be speaking for some upcoming youth events and father/son retreats, which continues to open doors in some amazing ways. Thank you for making it possible!

During this Thanksgiving season, take time to reflect upon the goodness and greatness of the grace of God. Until December, please pray and know that God is, and will continue to make a difference.

Terry Prisk