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3/9/2022 HELPING UKRAINIAN REFUGEESGreetings in Christ Jesus.
2/23/2022 Medical Update - Eric / February 23Greetings in Jesus.
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 | As for us personally, December took us to our knees as the doctor informed Eric they had seen an anomaly in the liver while looking over a scan of his kidney when looking for a kidney stone. After consulting with tumor specialists and a liver specialist it was decided that it is cancerous. Although it seems contained it needs immediate radiation treatment. All this news was overwhelming, but as several of you were aware and began to pray, we felt reassured that God is in control! He has been so good to us we rest on his promises. Doctors say the treatment is aggressive but has few side affects as it is sent directly into the tumor and released over time. We should even be able to travel and carry on our responsibilities. All this is very amazing. We ask that you continue your prayers that this is the case or that God would heal completely. We will keep you all updated. |
| We thank God that we were allowed to travel during the holidays, with all this going on. We celebrated Christmas with Holly, Sergio and the grandkids. We attended year end celebrations and work retreats in Mexico. We felt very blessed. Please remember our churches in your prayers as this new year has the potential to see extensive growth and new ministries will be opening as IMPACTO extensively multiplies its influence. |  Christmas Eve Celebration |
We also want to let you know that New International continues to grow and reach more and more communities around the world. We are so proud to be a part of this professional mission group. Tell you more about that in the next update!
We praise God for you all, who have made our ministry possible!
We praise God for you all, who have made our ministry possible!
COMING EVENTS:
-Jan. 12 / Appointment with Radiology to set up treatments for Eric's tumor.
-First few Days of February / We are projecting that the operation will be done to implant the radiation treatment in the tumor.
-Mid-February / We hope to return to Mexico.
-March 6-12 / Regional Director's meetings in Fort Myers at the offices of New International.
-April 12 / We would return to INDY for an appointment with the Liver Specialist.
-Jan. 12 / Appointment with Radiology to set up treatments for Eric's tumor.
-First few Days of February / We are projecting that the operation will be done to implant the radiation treatment in the tumor.
-Mid-February / We hope to return to Mexico.
-March 6-12 / Regional Director's meetings in Fort Myers at the offices of New International.
-April 12 / We would return to INDY for an appointment with the Liver Specialist.
Prayer Request:
-We ask that you keep us in your prayers as Eric begins treatment. The Specialist has indicated that the radiation treatment could shrink and even "disappear" the cancer completely. We are praying for just that!
-We also ask that you be praying that we can keep this challenge in perspective and that we will have the energy and focus to continue ministering effectively.
-We ask that you keep us in your prayers as Eric begins treatment. The Specialist has indicated that the radiation treatment could shrink and even "disappear" the cancer completely. We are praying for just that!
-We also ask that you be praying that we can keep this challenge in perspective and that we will have the energy and focus to continue ministering effectively.
 The entire Duggins Family at the Indy homestead. | We remain grateful for the many blessings that we have experienced over the last few months. We arrived in Indiana on May 5 and immediately arranged for our first vaccination for COVID. Then it was to work! We arranged for several appointments with potential new partnering congregations in Tennessee and Atlanta and over the next two weeks were traveling to those appointments. We also had been invited to do two presentations about the Cell Church strategy (a church based on small groups) which we have used over the last 25 years in the Mexico church planting ministry. We returned to Indiana and arranged for the second vaccination. |
Pat "Naomi" Rumler went home to be with Christ on August 28, 2021 This summer, though filled with a lot of activity and ministry, was also a time of concern for Dee and her entire family. Mom Rumler’s physical and mental health had deteriorated quite a bit during the COVID lockdowns. Visitation by family had been impossible for a good portion of that time and when things did open up some, there were still major limitations on those visits. When visits were possible, Dee would try to visit twice a week for several hours. In mid-August, during a conference at the memory care unit it was obvious that these medical health care workers considered Mom was in her last phase and they suggested that the family consider working with a hospice group which was done. We were scheduled to return to Mexico on August 24, but canceled those plans.
On early Saturday morning, August 28, Mom Rumler went home in her sleep. That afternoon we went with Dee’s sisters to make the arrangements for the funeral. The service was planned for that following Tuesday, August 31. Eric had the privilage to do the funeral service and the grave site service, since mom’s pastor in Anderson was already involved with a funeral at the same time.
We are grateful for many notes and other expressions of love after Mom’s homecoming. Thanks so much!
On early Saturday morning, August 28, Mom Rumler went home in her sleep. That afternoon we went with Dee’s sisters to make the arrangements for the funeral. The service was planned for that following Tuesday, August 31. Eric had the privilage to do the funeral service and the grave site service, since mom’s pastor in Anderson was already involved with a funeral at the same time.
We are grateful for many notes and other expressions of love after Mom’s homecoming. Thanks so much!
The next week, we began to look at our return to Mexico and made reservations for September 7. Over the last couple of days we have been resettling back into the house, reconnecting to Internet (looking for passwords, etc.). Dee is getting all the schooling material together, which was a lot of the weight in the suitcases for our return. Dee will be continuing to teach grandson, Eric several of his subjects. She actually started in Indiana by Zoom but now will be with him in-person at the Alvarado house.
The month of September will be full. We will be doing our coaching time, now also in-person and the two Administrative meetings for the two church plants here in Queretaro. We will also continue our contacts with New International affiliates. On September 17, we will have the blessing to be at the first anniversary of the Anchor Church here in Queretaro. And we will be at the party of the La Viña Church in celebration of Mexican Independence on Wednesday evening of September 15.
The month of September will be full. We will be doing our coaching time, now also in-person and the two Administrative meetings for the two church plants here in Queretaro. We will also continue our contacts with New International affiliates. On September 17, we will have the blessing to be at the first anniversary of the Anchor Church here in Queretaro. And we will be at the party of the La Viña Church in celebration of Mexican Independence on Wednesday evening of September 15.
Dr. Noemi Perez Went home on September 8, 2021 We got back to Queretaro to also receive some very sad news the day after we arrived. Dr. Noemi Perez, a faithful and dynamic member of the Jubilee Church in Pachuca went home after a sever case of COVID. Her mother preceded her by just a few days.
Noemi was a major blessing to the ministry in Pachuca and especially to the Jubilee church. She was also our personal doctor while we were in Pachuca. She was a devoted follower of Jesus and will be missed by many in Mexico!
Noemi was a major blessing to the ministry in Pachuca and especially to the Jubilee church. She was also our personal doctor while we were in Pachuca. She was a devoted follower of Jesus and will be missed by many in Mexico!
COVID has been a major challenge in Mexico and as is happening in the United States there has been a new wave in Mexico of the other COVID variants. So far, the Queretaro government has not increased limitations that affect the Churches but there are growing concerns that those limitations may be coming.
We will return to the United States on October 5 and very quickly begin a drive to Fort Myers for the annual Regional Directors Meetings at the home offices of New International. Those go for a week and then we are staying on in Fort Myers to observe the new affiliate orientation into the following week. We have possibly three new affiliates joining our region that will be at that orientation. We also hope to make a couple of church contacts visits during those two weeks.
Returning to Indy at the end of October, we will be there for only about two weeks before we travel to Richmond, Virginia for the iCOM (International Conference on Missions). The whole IMPACTOLatino team will be at this year’s conference since IMPACTO is one of five missions being presented for special recognition. We will be representing Latina American church planting. Also, the IMPACTOLatino Board of Advisors will be meeting on November 20 in Richmond.
Returning home to Indy, we will have Thanksgiving with family in Indiana and plans are presently to return to Queretaro on November 30. Tentative plans are that we will be in Mexico until the first few days of April, 2022.
We will return to the United States on October 5 and very quickly begin a drive to Fort Myers for the annual Regional Directors Meetings at the home offices of New International. Those go for a week and then we are staying on in Fort Myers to observe the new affiliate orientation into the following week. We have possibly three new affiliates joining our region that will be at that orientation. We also hope to make a couple of church contacts visits during those two weeks.
Returning to Indy at the end of October, we will be there for only about two weeks before we travel to Richmond, Virginia for the iCOM (International Conference on Missions). The whole IMPACTOLatino team will be at this year’s conference since IMPACTO is one of five missions being presented for special recognition. We will be representing Latina American church planting. Also, the IMPACTOLatino Board of Advisors will be meeting on November 20 in Richmond.
Returning home to Indy, we will have Thanksgiving with family in Indiana and plans are presently to return to Queretaro on November 30. Tentative plans are that we will be in Mexico until the first few days of April, 2022.
Coming Events:
15 Sept / Noche Mexicana at La Viña Church.
17 Sept / First Anniversary Celebration for the Anchor Church.
5 Oct / Return to Indy.
8-23 Oct / Regional Directors Meetings and New Afíliate Orientation
16-23 Nov / iCOM and IMPACTOLatino Board of Advisors Meeting in Richmond, VA
24 Nov. / Thanks-giving
30 Nov. / Return to Queretaro.
15 Sept / Noche Mexicana at La Viña Church.
17 Sept / First Anniversary Celebration for the Anchor Church.
5 Oct / Return to Indy.
8-23 Oct / Regional Directors Meetings and New Afíliate Orientation
16-23 Nov / iCOM and IMPACTOLatino Board of Advisors Meeting in Richmond, VA
24 Nov. / Thanks-giving
30 Nov. / Return to Queretaro.
Prayer Requests:
- -Praise: We were blessed by so many during the homecoming of Mom Rumler. We especially were blessed by the unity and love of Dee’s two sisters as they worked together the last days and the arrangements for the funeral celebration.
- -Pray for the Jubillee Church family at the loss of Dr. Noemi. She was a counselor and cell pastor that brought a deep understand of commitment and knowledge of the Bible and Christian life to the church family.
- -Be praying for Andrew as he begins to retool and look at his next phase in life.
- -Be praying for a friend and colleague, Vicki Syverson. We worked with Vicki and Greg for many years in Pachuca. Vicki was just diagnosed with a tumor in her femur. She returned to the United States to get more tests and to look into treatments.
- -Be praying for our fund-raising efforts for the new churches. We are waiting on decisions for potential additions to the support base for the Anchor Church here in Queretaro. We are also beginning the process to look for partners for the newest church plant projected for Merida, Yucatan in the Fall of 2022. Pray for us that our Lord is leading in each phone call and personal visit.
12/22/2020
Christmas Greetings 2020
 Merry Christmas, with a lot of love from Eric & Dee Duggins |  |
The present year has not developed as we had visualized during our planning time last December. So many adjectives have been given to 2020 and we really have no novel description of a year that has been one of the most unusual we have experienced in our 60 plus years. We have been saddened and grieved for people we have connected with over our years of ministry that lost family to COVID. We prayed for others and rejoiced at healing and we have been thankful that our family has not suffered loss of a loved one to this virus. I think like most people, we were concerned and took protective precautions but at others times felt that there was over-reaction and paranoia. We were deeply concerned to see the Church struggle to find a balance between being a center of proclamation, counsel, encouragement and community and still protecting the health of their people and the general populations in their cities and towns.
My thoughts several times has gone to marvel at how brothers and sisters in several parts of the world are still "Church" during times of major persecution and crisis. I can remember reading in a church history class about how the pagans of the ancient world were amazed at the care of the sick by Christians during a major plague, even being the only ones willing to bury those that had lost their lives. There is power in their testimony! We pray that the Church continues to struggle to find the roles and message that calls the world to His loving and just Son!
Though a major purpose of this email is to send our love during this Christmas season we will also take a few lines to update you a bit about the ministry in Mexico.
The La Viña Church has been faithful during COVID. Early in the pandemic the church did virtual church. They were very effective and even did the Cell Groups through Zoom. The government gave permission in August to begin in-person services at very reduced levels which the church did. Fortunately, up until this month, we did not have COVID cases among the church membership. We did have loss of jobs and several individuals and even families had to make moves that made their participation in the congregation impossible. Before COVID the church was reaching 130 on Sundays however, in two services, the attendance was running closer to 70. Unfortunately, COVID hit the congregation in the last week and about 30 people are with symptoms or are isolating because they were exposed to those with symptoms.
The congregation has continue to reach-out and we are ending the year with 26 baptisms. The goal set at the planning retreat was 30, so we are very excited to see that the members were faithful in sharing with others and proclaimed Christ!
The La Viña Church has been faithful during COVID. Early in the pandemic the church did virtual church. They were very effective and even did the Cell Groups through Zoom. The government gave permission in August to begin in-person services at very reduced levels which the church did. Fortunately, up until this month, we did not have COVID cases among the church membership. We did have loss of jobs and several individuals and even families had to make moves that made their participation in the congregation impossible. Before COVID the church was reaching 130 on Sundays however, in two services, the attendance was running closer to 70. Unfortunately, COVID hit the congregation in the last week and about 30 people are with symptoms or are isolating because they were exposed to those with symptoms.
The congregation has continue to reach-out and we are ending the year with 26 baptisms. The goal set at the planning retreat was 30, so we are very excited to see that the members were faithful in sharing with others and proclaimed Christ!
Baptisms at La Viña Church, Queretaro, Mexico Though a major purpose of this email is to send our love during this Christmas season we will also take a few lines to update you a bit about the ministry in Mexico.
The La Viña Church has been faithful during COVID. Early in the pandemic the church did virtual church. They were very effective and even did the Cell Groups through Zoom. The government gave permission in August to begin in-person services at very reduced levels which the church did. Fortunately, up until this month, we did not have COVID cases among the church membership. We did have loss of jobs and several individuals and even families had to make moves that made their participation in the congregation impossible. Before COVID the church was reaching 130 on Sundays however, in two services, the attendance was running closer to 70. Unfortunately, COVID hit the congregation in the last week and about 30 people are with symptoms or are isolating because they were exposed to those with symptoms.
The congregation has continue to reach-out and we are ending the year with 26 baptisms. The goal set at the planning retreat was 30, so we are very excited to see that the members were faithful in sharing with others and proclaimed Christ!
The La Viña Church has been faithful during COVID. Early in the pandemic the church did virtual church. They were very effective and even did the Cell Groups through Zoom. The government gave permission in August to begin in-person services at very reduced levels which the church did. Fortunately, up until this month, we did not have COVID cases among the church membership. We did have loss of jobs and several individuals and even families had to make moves that made their participation in the congregation impossible. Before COVID the church was reaching 130 on Sundays however, in two services, the attendance was running closer to 70. Unfortunately, COVID hit the congregation in the last week and about 30 people are with symptoms or are isolating because they were exposed to those with symptoms.
The congregation has continue to reach-out and we are ending the year with 26 baptisms. The goal set at the planning retreat was 30, so we are very excited to see that the members were faithful in sharing with others and proclaimed Christ!
The new Anchor Church launched on October 4. They had been reaching toward the high 40s at Sunday celebrations and also have three cells meeting. They were also doing in-person meetings but unfortunately also had COVID touch the church members this month. They are doing virtual church with the hope they will restart in-person meetings after the New Year.
Sergio and Holly Alvarado, coffee break in Merida, Yucatan during a Survey Trip for possible New Church Plant location Since our return to Mexico in August we have continue to participate in the IMPACTOLatino's network of training and preparing church leadership in planting new congregations. We are organizing the Administrative Teams for each new church and will be participating in their evaluation and planning times at the first of January.
We also continue to minister with New International as the Regional Directors of the Americas and we continue to keep in contact with those affiliated families in North, Central and South America. We were only able to do one in-person visit this year to Chile and though several trips are in the plans for next year it will depend on the COVID restrictions as the year progresses.
We are also leading in the search of new partners for each of the new church plants. As you might imagine, that came to a screeching halt in 2020. We were able to host one church that is working toward partnering with the Anchor church and are hopeful we will get word about that participation soon. There are a few other contacts we will need to follow-up with after our return to Indiana on January 12, 2021.
We also want to thank so many of you for your gifts to our ministry and we are thankful for the many congregations that are part of our support family and have been for many years. We did have some loss in 2020, mostly because of COVID. Three small congregations ended support at the end of this year and two significant congregation had to cut their support by half. We ended up loosing close to $20,000 on a year budget. However, we rejoice that one congregation connected with the Church Planting project got word of this loss and has given $10,000 to make up a portion of that loss. That was a very kind gift and we were greatly encouraged.
We also continue to minister with New International as the Regional Directors of the Americas and we continue to keep in contact with those affiliated families in North, Central and South America. We were only able to do one in-person visit this year to Chile and though several trips are in the plans for next year it will depend on the COVID restrictions as the year progresses.
We are also leading in the search of new partners for each of the new church plants. As you might imagine, that came to a screeching halt in 2020. We were able to host one church that is working toward partnering with the Anchor church and are hopeful we will get word about that participation soon. There are a few other contacts we will need to follow-up with after our return to Indiana on January 12, 2021.
We also want to thank so many of you for your gifts to our ministry and we are thankful for the many congregations that are part of our support family and have been for many years. We did have some loss in 2020, mostly because of COVID. Three small congregations ended support at the end of this year and two significant congregation had to cut their support by half. We ended up loosing close to $20,000 on a year budget. However, we rejoice that one congregation connected with the Church Planting project got word of this loss and has given $10,000 to make up a portion of that loss. That was a very kind gift and we were greatly encouraged.
Coming Events:
4-5 January: Evaluation and Planning Retreat for the Anchor Church
6 January: Up-line Call Regional Director
7-8 January: Evaluation and Planning Retreat for La Viña Church
11 January: IMPACTOnetwork Day of Celebration with the Church Staffs.
12 January: Eric & Dee return to INDY
21 January: Zoom Call Regional Directors
25-26 January: Virtual Meetings of Regional Directors of New International
3 February: Up-line Call Regional Director
17-22 February: Field Visit to Santiago, Chile (?)
23 February: Return to Mexico from INDY
25 February: Zoom Call Regional Directors
1-5 March: Eric Teaching at Residency Program
15-19 March: Dee Teaching at Residency Program
4 April: Easter Sunday in Mexico
12 April: Return to INDY from Queretaro
4-5 January: Evaluation and Planning Retreat for the Anchor Church
6 January: Up-line Call Regional Director
7-8 January: Evaluation and Planning Retreat for La Viña Church
11 January: IMPACTOnetwork Day of Celebration with the Church Staffs.
12 January: Eric & Dee return to INDY
21 January: Zoom Call Regional Directors
25-26 January: Virtual Meetings of Regional Directors of New International
3 February: Up-line Call Regional Director
17-22 February: Field Visit to Santiago, Chile (?)
23 February: Return to Mexico from INDY
25 February: Zoom Call Regional Directors
1-5 March: Eric Teaching at Residency Program
15-19 March: Dee Teaching at Residency Program
4 April: Easter Sunday in Mexico
12 April: Return to INDY from Queretaro
Prayer Request:
- We want to thank you for praying for Dee's Mom. She got COVID but came through it without major issues. We really feel that was a miracle.
- Be praying for the two church planning retreats next month. The groups will need a lot of wisdom as they deal with plans for 2021.
- We would ask that you pray with us that we are lead to congregations that are open to consider partnering with The Anchor Church and also for the next church projected to begin in 2022.
- We want to thank you for praying for Dee's Mom. She got COVID but came through it without major issues. We really feel that was a miracle.
- Be praying for the two church planning retreats next month. The groups will need a lot of wisdom as they deal with plans for 2021.
- We would ask that you pray with us that we are lead to congregations that are open to consider partnering with The Anchor Church and also for the next church projected to begin in 2022.
7/27/2020
Duggins e-Update July 2020
Greetings in Christ Jesus.
We pray that you and your family are healthy and blessed.
Everyone talks about "these challenging times" even to the point the phrase has become a cliche that some have expressed they are tired of hearing. It has been however, somewhat of a "culture shock" coming back to the United States with churches closed, mask on faces and rioting in major cities. Even the Indianapolis downtown, we are told, is still boarded up after two nights of looting and burning. We went on a field visit to Santiago, Chile in January of this year, just after major unrest and rioting in that Latin American city. Santiago was a beautiful city, however, the downtown area was, well, basically trashed. I can remember thinking, how thin the veneer of stability and civilization actually is in many countries around the world. I don't think my mind really included my own country, but that is no longer.
The situation of the Church in all these situations has also been disturbing. Forced to do "virtual church" our impression is that there has been a growing sense of isolation and disconnection. Some have said to us since our return from Mexico, "the church is frozen in place" waiting for "the thaw". Not a good place to be for God's mighty army. I once read a book with the title, They Smell like Sheep, which talked about Christian leadership and the need to disciple effectively, loving and knowing their people to the point, they even smell like them. Intimate and constant connection! Difficult at best through "virtual Church".
Fortunately, it looks like at this point, in July 2020, that churches are beginning to move toward in-person connections and whether this month or at the first of August it seems that most churches will be trying to return to in-person worship and restart small groups. However, it seems that it is going to take many congregations several months to build up the momentum they once had moving into 2020. With only a few exceptions, we have seen that our partnering congregations have been able to remain financially stable. That is a blessing! We are grateful for both churches and individuals that have continued to faithfully support our ministry and projects. However, we are getting clear signals that the development of new contacts for partnerships will be very slow, with many indicating that there might be openings to talk in 2021.
This situation is moving our team and family to rethink projects and make some significant changes in ministry plans. One major change was that we moved out of a major portion of the office area we were renting in Queretaro and the team returned to home offices. Fortunately, we were able to keep the classroom / conference area where the multi-media also is located. This was necessary as we reacted to a loss of support for the La Viña Church of about $1000 a month from one congregation. The launch of the second congregation, the Anchor Church (El Ancla) was moved to September and its ministry plan is adjusting significantly, since we have not been able to develop support partners to the degree needed to sustain the original ministry plan.
Our own plans are also in process of adjusting. You may remember that we had planned to remain here in the States until the middle or end of October. However, we actually arrived in Indiana a month early as travel restrictions began to be a major concern. We have accomplished part of our plan, that of setting up our living situation here in Indianapolis. With most churches expressing their reluctance to talk this year about new projects, we are considering returning to Mexico by the middle of August.
We will return to Mexico about August 15 and Dee will begin school for grandson, Eric. Dee will not be teaching Abby and Emmy this next school year since they will be studying through an on-line school program from a Christian School in California. Eric will continue with the Home Schooling material and will begin about the middle of August.
Upon return there will be several projects to work on. One will be to reorganize our rented home. Since the office was rearranged and partly vacated, Eric's office (books, desk, bookshelves, computer, etc) were all put into one of our bedrooms. We will have to get rid of several pieces of furniture to set up one of the bedrooms into a home office.
The IMPACTO team is also reorganizing responsibilities a bit in the second part of this year. Eric will be taking on the supervision of the Administrative Teams for each church plant. He will be working with each of those teams and their leaders who function as a counselors and decision makers until an Eldership is appointed in each congregation. Sergio Alvarado, the director of IMPACTOLatino, will be dedicating more time to the Residency Program and will also be helping with fundraising projects in the United States in a close partnership with us during the next months and into the new year.
We pray that you and your family are healthy and blessed.
Everyone talks about "these challenging times" even to the point the phrase has become a cliche that some have expressed they are tired of hearing. It has been however, somewhat of a "culture shock" coming back to the United States with churches closed, mask on faces and rioting in major cities. Even the Indianapolis downtown, we are told, is still boarded up after two nights of looting and burning. We went on a field visit to Santiago, Chile in January of this year, just after major unrest and rioting in that Latin American city. Santiago was a beautiful city, however, the downtown area was, well, basically trashed. I can remember thinking, how thin the veneer of stability and civilization actually is in many countries around the world. I don't think my mind really included my own country, but that is no longer.
The situation of the Church in all these situations has also been disturbing. Forced to do "virtual church" our impression is that there has been a growing sense of isolation and disconnection. Some have said to us since our return from Mexico, "the church is frozen in place" waiting for "the thaw". Not a good place to be for God's mighty army. I once read a book with the title, They Smell like Sheep, which talked about Christian leadership and the need to disciple effectively, loving and knowing their people to the point, they even smell like them. Intimate and constant connection! Difficult at best through "virtual Church".
Fortunately, it looks like at this point, in July 2020, that churches are beginning to move toward in-person connections and whether this month or at the first of August it seems that most churches will be trying to return to in-person worship and restart small groups. However, it seems that it is going to take many congregations several months to build up the momentum they once had moving into 2020. With only a few exceptions, we have seen that our partnering congregations have been able to remain financially stable. That is a blessing! We are grateful for both churches and individuals that have continued to faithfully support our ministry and projects. However, we are getting clear signals that the development of new contacts for partnerships will be very slow, with many indicating that there might be openings to talk in 2021.
This situation is moving our team and family to rethink projects and make some significant changes in ministry plans. One major change was that we moved out of a major portion of the office area we were renting in Queretaro and the team returned to home offices. Fortunately, we were able to keep the classroom / conference area where the multi-media also is located. This was necessary as we reacted to a loss of support for the La Viña Church of about $1000 a month from one congregation. The launch of the second congregation, the Anchor Church (El Ancla) was moved to September and its ministry plan is adjusting significantly, since we have not been able to develop support partners to the degree needed to sustain the original ministry plan.
Our own plans are also in process of adjusting. You may remember that we had planned to remain here in the States until the middle or end of October. However, we actually arrived in Indiana a month early as travel restrictions began to be a major concern. We have accomplished part of our plan, that of setting up our living situation here in Indianapolis. With most churches expressing their reluctance to talk this year about new projects, we are considering returning to Mexico by the middle of August.
We will return to Mexico about August 15 and Dee will begin school for grandson, Eric. Dee will not be teaching Abby and Emmy this next school year since they will be studying through an on-line school program from a Christian School in California. Eric will continue with the Home Schooling material and will begin about the middle of August.
Upon return there will be several projects to work on. One will be to reorganize our rented home. Since the office was rearranged and partly vacated, Eric's office (books, desk, bookshelves, computer, etc) were all put into one of our bedrooms. We will have to get rid of several pieces of furniture to set up one of the bedrooms into a home office.
The IMPACTO team is also reorganizing responsibilities a bit in the second part of this year. Eric will be taking on the supervision of the Administrative Teams for each church plant. He will be working with each of those teams and their leaders who function as a counselors and decision makers until an Eldership is appointed in each congregation. Sergio Alvarado, the director of IMPACTOLatino, will be dedicating more time to the Residency Program and will also be helping with fundraising projects in the United States in a close partnership with us during the next months and into the new year.
Regional Directors of the Americas.
We continue in our responsibilities with New International as the Regional Directors of the Americas Region. Our region has gown a bit with the addition of two families. We now have 12 families that we minister to through being the Regional Directors. In August we hope to do a field visit with a family working with Muslims in a major U.S. city, however with quarantine requirements by New York we have had to cancel that visit.
We just finished looking at Field Visits and budgets for the next year (August 2020 to July 2021). We are hopeful that the situation with the Corona virus will stabilize permitting us do those visits which will mostly be done in 2021.
We continue in our responsibilities with New International as the Regional Directors of the Americas Region. Our region has gown a bit with the addition of two families. We now have 12 families that we minister to through being the Regional Directors. In August we hope to do a field visit with a family working with Muslims in a major U.S. city, however with quarantine requirements by New York we have had to cancel that visit.
We just finished looking at Field Visits and budgets for the next year (August 2020 to July 2021). We are hopeful that the situation with the Corona virus will stabilize permitting us do those visits which will mostly be done in 2021.
| We recently received some sad news. Rafa Gomez, son of Rosa Garcia notified us that Rosa had gone home to be with the Lord Jesus. Rosa and her sister, Emma, were the first two people we had the privilege to study with in Mexico City and were the first to respond and be baptized. Rosa, remained faithful these 38 years and must have been in her 80s when she went home. We were blessed in many ways by Rosa during the years we were in Mexico City. |  |
Coming events:
Aug. 1-3 -Visit in Painesville, OH.
Aug. 3-7 - Field Visit in New York State. (Canceled)
? - We are waiting to make an appoint with a church in Cincinnati, OH.
Aug.15 - Traveling back to Mexico.
? - La Viña Church is hopeful to begin in-person worship about the middle of August.
Sept. 20 - The newest church plant, the Anchor Church is to launch.
Nov.16-24 - Eric will be returning to Indianapolis for the iCOM (International Conference on Missions) in INDY.
Aug. 1-3 -Visit in Painesville, OH.
Aug. 3-7 - Field Visit in New York State. (Canceled)
? - We are waiting to make an appoint with a church in Cincinnati, OH.
Aug.15 - Traveling back to Mexico.
? - La Viña Church is hopeful to begin in-person worship about the middle of August.
Sept. 20 - The newest church plant, the Anchor Church is to launch.
Nov.16-24 - Eric will be returning to Indianapolis for the iCOM (International Conference on Missions) in INDY.
PRAYER REQUESTS:
1. We are grateful for so many that pray for us often and give sacrificially making it possible for us to minister with the Church Planting projects. Thanks You! Be praying that income remains stable!
2. We continue with our "life Change" and are excited that we continue to improve our health. Eric hit a 100 pounds weight loss, and though returning to the U.S. that has gone up and down a bit, we both continue to walk and count the carbs. Thanks for praying as we move to the next goal.
3. Be praying for the Anchor Church and its leadership as they plan for the launch of the church on September 20. They are presently working on finding a meeting place in the area of Queretaro where they will be planting.
4. Be praying for Abby and Emmy as they transitions to a new education system. Keep Dee in your prayers as she will need to be very creative to keep Grandson Eric engaged.
5. Keep Andrew in your prayers. He continues to live in Minneapolis and fortunately, continues to work, though not with the number of hours he would need. The church he is helping with has done virtur
1. We are grateful for so many that pray for us often and give sacrificially making it possible for us to minister with the Church Planting projects. Thanks You! Be praying that income remains stable!
2. We continue with our "life Change" and are excited that we continue to improve our health. Eric hit a 100 pounds weight loss, and though returning to the U.S. that has gone up and down a bit, we both continue to walk and count the carbs. Thanks for praying as we move to the next goal.
3. Be praying for the Anchor Church and its leadership as they plan for the launch of the church on September 20. They are presently working on finding a meeting place in the area of Queretaro where they will be planting.
4. Be praying for Abby and Emmy as they transitions to a new education system. Keep Dee in your prayers as she will need to be very creative to keep Grandson Eric engaged.
5. Keep Andrew in your prayers. He continues to live in Minneapolis and fortunately, continues to work, though not with the number of hours he would need. The church he is helping with has done virtur
A NEED! Can you HELP?
IMPACTOLatino has its next apprentice family. Tony and Jackie Moreno have joined IMPACTO this month in Queretaro and will be with us for over a year as they learn and prepare to plant a church. They are interested in planting a new church in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. They have collected promises of support for about half of their support. We are in need to find support for the other half they will need during this year, which is about $600 monthly. Can you consider a gift to them? A one-time gift would be very helpful as would anyone wanting to take them on monthly support for the year they will be with us in Queretaro. Please click on the link to make a donation or send a donation to New International with a note or in a the memo line of a check stating it is for "IMPACTOnetwork Moreno Family".
IMPACTOLatino has its next apprentice family. Tony and Jackie Moreno have joined IMPACTO this month in Queretaro and will be with us for over a year as they learn and prepare to plant a church. They are interested in planting a new church in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico. They have collected promises of support for about half of their support. We are in need to find support for the other half they will need during this year, which is about $600 monthly. Can you consider a gift to them? A one-time gift would be very helpful as would anyone wanting to take them on monthly support for the year they will be with us in Queretaro. Please click on the link to make a donation or send a donation to New International with a note or in a the memo line of a check stating it is for "IMPACTOnetwork Moreno Family".
4/4/2020
Duggin family e-update / April 2020
Home Group Meeting by Zoom Greetings in Christ.
It's been a very strange few weeks.
As we watched the news we saw our home country move toward major attempts to decrease the spread of Covid-19 but our adopted home seemed to be ignoring the implications. Finally, in mid-march several of the State Governments in Mexico began to take steps such as closing schools and limiting crowds to 50 people. Though most restaurants and taco places remained open. After a week or so the State Government here in Queretaro dropped down to limits of 10 people and finally began closing most gathering places. At the federal level there was little movement and what was especially worrying was that major events continued in Mexico City, one of the most densely populated places on earth. That has now changed but there are concerns that Mexico will face some difficult days ahead.
The affect on the La Viña Church has been profound. With the orders of no groups of 50 the church leadership moved to an on-line format for the Sunday Celebration. There was still a hope that the small groups might continue, however, it quickly became evident that they too would need to move to on-line. These transitions were eased somewhat by the expertise that IMPACTOLatino has in producing on-line materials and much of the production can be done at the Network offices and studio. The small Group leaders are trying to keep connected with their groups through phone, text and even the group meetings continuing through Zoom or other apps . We continue to coach church planters and participate on the Administrative Teams for La Viña Church and the Anchor Church by Zoom meetings.
It's been a very strange few weeks.
As we watched the news we saw our home country move toward major attempts to decrease the spread of Covid-19 but our adopted home seemed to be ignoring the implications. Finally, in mid-march several of the State Governments in Mexico began to take steps such as closing schools and limiting crowds to 50 people. Though most restaurants and taco places remained open. After a week or so the State Government here in Queretaro dropped down to limits of 10 people and finally began closing most gathering places. At the federal level there was little movement and what was especially worrying was that major events continued in Mexico City, one of the most densely populated places on earth. That has now changed but there are concerns that Mexico will face some difficult days ahead.
The affect on the La Viña Church has been profound. With the orders of no groups of 50 the church leadership moved to an on-line format for the Sunday Celebration. There was still a hope that the small groups might continue, however, it quickly became evident that they too would need to move to on-line. These transitions were eased somewhat by the expertise that IMPACTOLatino has in producing on-line materials and much of the production can be done at the Network offices and studio. The small Group leaders are trying to keep connected with their groups through phone, text and even the group meetings continuing through Zoom or other apps . We continue to coach church planters and participate on the Administrative Teams for La Viña Church and the Anchor Church by Zoom meetings.
Eric Peaching- first time to the church through a camera. Church on-line at La Viña Christian Church in Queretaro, Mexico. First Sunday was on March 22. Special services will be on the
Church's Facebook site for Holy Week on Thursday, Friday and Easter Sunday.
Church's Facebook site for Holy Week on Thursday, Friday and Easter Sunday.
The newest church, the Anchor Church was to launch at the end of May. They are especially struggling with all the restrictions. Since they were just beginning to work with some small groups in their area. These were new contacts and the groups had not yet "gelled.: We ask for your prayers for this new work to find creative ways to serve during this difficult time.
We have been staying home as much as possible and Holly has encouraged us to be careful since we are in the higher risk demographics. She and Sergio have even done some of the shopping for us. We also have a small market that will deliver. We did make a trip to Pachuca to arrange the final payment for the sale of the house and sign the final paperwork. This was about a month early, but I think everyone wanted to get it finished with all the uncertainty. As we left Pachuca we went by one of the plazas and it was filled with tents that were set up as a field hospital to prepare for what is coming. That was sobering.
Many are very concerned that the medical system in Mexico will quickly become overwhelmed and it seems that the spread of the virus is about three to four weeks behind what has been happening in the United States. The U.S. Ambassador encouraged all U.S. Citizens to leave Mexico saying something like, "If you get sick, where would you prefer to be in the hospital." A bit strong but it does indicate that there are significant concerns for Mexico. We therefore, have moved our leaving date to April 6. Our responsibilities with both IMPACTOLatino and New International will be done from a home base in Indiana until October.
We have mixed feelings about leaving our family and team here in Mexico but we do feel that is the best decision at this point. We will be staying with some long-time friends and supporters north of Indy until we are able to finalize our housing arrangements on the Southside of Indy.
New International activated its Global Crisis Response Team as the virus has progressed across the globe. As Regional Directors of the Americas and Caribbean we are presently involved in doing a risk assessment for each of the affiliate families in our region. We will then be working with those affiliate on contingency plans in the following weeks and will be in contact with our families by phone at least every other week over the next few months.
We express our gratitude to our partners for your prayers and the faithful support!
When we heard that 10 million lost jobs in the United States, we were shocked. Our son, Andrew, was one of those so we are prayerful, asking the Lord keep supplying the needs of individuals and ministries around the world.
The financial situation is stretching our creativity as we find temporary ways to bridge this time of so much uncertainty. The owner of the Sport Club where the La Viña Church rents space is a Christian gentleman and has said that he will not charge for the month of April. Our IMPACTOLatino staff has been working on ways that funds that can be moved around to cover some immediate needs as the La Viña Church has lost a significant donor.
BE PRAYING FOR:
1. We would ask you to pray for Andrew. He is in Minneapolis helping with a Church Plant and was working there to supply his needs. He is one of those that have lost his job. He is looking at options and also got word that the former job may be calling him back but nothing was yet sure.
2. Ask for you prayers as we travel on Monday, April 6. We have our anti-bacterial gel and masks ready to use and praying there will not be any disruptions.
We have been staying home as much as possible and Holly has encouraged us to be careful since we are in the higher risk demographics. She and Sergio have even done some of the shopping for us. We also have a small market that will deliver. We did make a trip to Pachuca to arrange the final payment for the sale of the house and sign the final paperwork. This was about a month early, but I think everyone wanted to get it finished with all the uncertainty. As we left Pachuca we went by one of the plazas and it was filled with tents that were set up as a field hospital to prepare for what is coming. That was sobering.
Many are very concerned that the medical system in Mexico will quickly become overwhelmed and it seems that the spread of the virus is about three to four weeks behind what has been happening in the United States. The U.S. Ambassador encouraged all U.S. Citizens to leave Mexico saying something like, "If you get sick, where would you prefer to be in the hospital." A bit strong but it does indicate that there are significant concerns for Mexico. We therefore, have moved our leaving date to April 6. Our responsibilities with both IMPACTOLatino and New International will be done from a home base in Indiana until October.
We have mixed feelings about leaving our family and team here in Mexico but we do feel that is the best decision at this point. We will be staying with some long-time friends and supporters north of Indy until we are able to finalize our housing arrangements on the Southside of Indy.
New International activated its Global Crisis Response Team as the virus has progressed across the globe. As Regional Directors of the Americas and Caribbean we are presently involved in doing a risk assessment for each of the affiliate families in our region. We will then be working with those affiliate on contingency plans in the following weeks and will be in contact with our families by phone at least every other week over the next few months.
We express our gratitude to our partners for your prayers and the faithful support!
When we heard that 10 million lost jobs in the United States, we were shocked. Our son, Andrew, was one of those so we are prayerful, asking the Lord keep supplying the needs of individuals and ministries around the world.
The financial situation is stretching our creativity as we find temporary ways to bridge this time of so much uncertainty. The owner of the Sport Club where the La Viña Church rents space is a Christian gentleman and has said that he will not charge for the month of April. Our IMPACTOLatino staff has been working on ways that funds that can be moved around to cover some immediate needs as the La Viña Church has lost a significant donor.
BE PRAYING FOR:
1. We would ask you to pray for Andrew. He is in Minneapolis helping with a Church Plant and was working there to supply his needs. He is one of those that have lost his job. He is looking at options and also got word that the former job may be calling him back but nothing was yet sure.
2. Ask for you prayers as we travel on Monday, April 6. We have our anti-bacterial gel and masks ready to use and praying there will not be any disruptions.
Eric & Dee Duggins
The Duggins have been missionaries for more than 40 years, the last 38 in Mexico. They are currently Regional Director of the Americas with New International and Directors of Development with IMPACTO Latino.
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PRAYfor this ministry and the new church planters that are raised up for kingdom work in Latin America.
Our ministry depends on partnership with churches and individuals in the United States and around the world. We regularly ask for prayer and send prayer updates to hundreds of committed prayer partners. |
INVESTin a new church plant financially.
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SERVEalong side us on the field by doing an internship, organizing a work group from your church, providing your professional skills or even by moving to Mexico or any other Latin American country to serve as one of our missionaries.
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