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| Boston Partnership E-Update
November 2005
Dear Friends, We are sorry that it has been so long since you have heard from us. This has been a terribly busy month with several unanticipated surprises. For example, my family (the Wilsons) did not move into the home we planned to buy because an inspection revealed structural problems. We are now in a four bedroom apartment in the South End. The good news is that we believe God protected us and provided us a fantastic location to live. The bad news is that we found a leak and mold in one of our bedrooms. All that plus trying to get the rest of the team settled. We each have our own stories. All in all, we're doing great. You could say we're learning to improvise within God's plan. It has been a blast so far and we expect it to get even better! Thank you for your continued prayers and support to make this church a reality.
For the Kingdom,
Hank, Mike, John and the Boston Partnership Team
On the Ground in Bean Town! Hank and John Stroll Through Boston Common
 Here we are, one week from Thanksgiving; for the team, that means that we have been here in Boston anywhere from four to six weeks. Time has gone by so fast, yet some days seem exceptionally slow. The minute that I (John Tischer) stepped off the plane into Boston, I was overwhelmed with the feeling of loneliness. As I stepped into the airport I saw the hustle and bustle of people rushing from gate to gate, people trying to find their luggage and the shuttle that would lead them to their desired destination. (Speaking from experience, if you ever fly into Logan and need to connect with the Subway system, don’t take the #66 bus; it will take you to the Water Dock instead of the Subway...however, there is nothing like taking a boat ride on your first day in Boston!)
Now that we are living in Boston we have all felt this loneliness, and realize that it is a major struggle within city living. We are surrounded by nearly 600,000 residents and approximately an additional 300,000 students in Boston and one of the most evident struggles is loneliness? We all believe that this void makes our dreams of forming a community more urgent and desirable. We long to see a place where people feel loved and welcome and part of something that will make a difference for God’s kingdom here in Boston!
The Movement Introducing Ryan Smith
 Each new person or organization to join the Partnership brings unique gifts and passions. We want to introduce you to Ryan Smith, an incredibly gifted musician who has moved to Boston to be a leader in the church...oh, and attend Berklee College of Music.
What’s your name, where are you from, and how are you connected with the Partnership?
Ryan Smith from Bolingbrook, IL, and my home church is Community Christian Church. I will be serving on the music team.
When and how did you become a Christ follower?
I became a Christ follower in the summer of '02 after a High School conference. Through music and people, God became so real in my life that I could no longer ignore His presence. I subsequently got baptized and God continues to teach me and grow me daily.
What are you looking forward to most at Berklee College of Music?
I am looking forward to being challenged daily by my instructors, my mates, and myself.
What’s the biggest change you’re adjusting to in Boston so far?
- Walking and taking the train everywhere.
- Shedding my suburban ideals about life and people.
How many diapers have you changed since living at Mike and Karen Brown’s place?
A big unapologetic "0." I fear that the day is fast approaching, though...
Pray it up...
 God continues to answer our prayers. We have been taught a great deal about prayer and God's guidance. We thank you for praying for our families and for the people of Boston. We know that God will prevail and pray that we might seek His plan...and not screw it up! We are humbled by His faithfulness and by your support. Please pray...
- Praise God that we all arrived safely and have a place to live.
- That we find office space where our team can connect with each other and the community.
- For continued progress in reaching our fundraising needs.
- For courage to follow God's lead in pursuing relationships.
- For the relationships we have built with those in Boston, especially those who are not Christ Followers.
- For the team and their families over the holidays.
Rejoice in your hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.-Romans 12:12
How Can You Help?
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Now that we are here in Boston, many people have asked how they can help. Our first response continues to be that you can pray for us. We are, however, still in need of significant financial support. We stepped out in faith and moved to Boston with only about half of the total funds we will need to start the new church. In the next month, many of you will receive a letter asking for financial support if you are not already partnering with us. We will also be seeking churches and individuals who might consider year-end gifts. We simply ask that you pray how you, your church, or someone you know might be involved and whether God may be leading you to join the Boston Partnership.
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phone*// 617.960.7576
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