Pastor David Maier - Forward in Hope

Not Then, Nor NOW, Can We Avoid the Cities

One of the great challenges for the Church today, and perhaps in particular for The Michigan District, is how to carry on vital and vibrant urban ministry.  More than half of the churches that were thriving in the mid 1950’s in Detroit are now closed, with those remaining  very challenged in their ministries and even in worship attendance.  It is possible that there will no longer be any Lutheran Schools in Detroit by the end of this year.

I’ve heard some excuse this as just the normal turn of events for a city.  Others have recognized the horrible economic plight of our entire state and how it has ravaged Detroit.  Still more have said that “Lutheranism” can no longer impact Detroit like it once did because of Detroit's multi-nationalism and multi-culturalism.

3.3.05 Prayer Requests

Prayers of thanksgiving for how Joel is dealing with the chemo treatments this go around are greatly appreciated.  He is doing miraculously well … no neuropathy … no muscle damage … that we are aware of.  He’s maintained his personality, sense of humor, and even a great deal of strength.  He continues with going to classes and is even continuing his physical therapy.  Thanks indeed is due a gracious God for all that he has done and is doing for Joel as he focuses forward on his recovery and healing.

I also would appreciate your prayers.  This coming Tuesday I will head on down to Ann Arbor with Joel.  Joel goes for his chemo testing … and I will have my 3 month check up / testing:  that means I will have my CT Scan next week and then blood test and a visit with the doctors the following week to understand what the tests have shown them and determine a course of action if necessary.  The medicine and the course of treatment that they would like to give me with Bexar seemed to have gained approval with the FDA.  We will learn whether it has alos been approved as a primary treatment … or only as a treatment after chemo.

So, in advance, thank you for your prayers.  Thank you for your past prayers … and for your diligence in bringing them before God’s throne.  Please join me in praising God for the wisdom he will give the doctors … and thank God with me for the opportunities of continued service in His kingdom for what I pray will be many years to come.

Prayer Requests

Thank you all for your continued prayers ... for health and healing especially for Joel and myself.  This morning finds me teary eyed as I know Joel was getting some chemo through the night … and will be getting more today.  My awesome wife, Pat, spent the night with Joel as he began (continued) his chemo regimen again for the months that lie ahead.  They discovered last night that they won’t be home tonight as expected … that he will have to spend another night (as will Pat) because the new chemo they are giving him needs to be administered twice while he is there … and prior to and following each “drip” they hydrate and also flush his system, as best I understand it.  I know he also needs to drink lots of water.