Mark and Trini Simpson have worked in Ecuador from 1995 through 2003 in evangelism, discipling, and church planting. They had the oversight of a number of churches in northern Ecuador which were established by Mark's parents, Dale and Janis. Mark and Trini have transferred to the home base in Texas. They continue to work in the ministry on a part time basis in prison ministry, children's ministry, and counseling by telephone those they left behind. Their children are Martha, Rachel, David, and the little one, Andrew Marcus.

Mark is also a chalk artist. He can bless your congregation with a chalk drawing, using black light techniques.

Below I've posted Mark and Trini's latest newsletter.

     

“Impossible, Difficult, Done”, said Hudson Taylor concerning the work for God.   No doubt you’ve experienced this, in the impossibilities of life.  So have we.  On occasion we review those events.  The Psalmist said, “I remember the days of old, I meditate on all your works, I muse on all the works of your hands.”  Psalm 143:5

   Remembering 2008, we’ve seen answers to prayer:

·The eye of Hurricane Ike passed close to us, but only a couple of trees came down on the property, and our lights were out for five days.  God had mercy on East Texas.

·Dad and Mom’s trip to Ecuador in the spring.  They went with a burden to be a help to some who have been “impossible cases”.  They came back encouraged and refreshed.

·God’s protection and discernment as we work with the men in Billy Max Moore Unit.  There are sometimes undertones of manipulation or deceit, and we’ve confronted false doctrines.

·New inmates who have a relationship with God have come in to replace those who have left.

·This year Missions Support Team is handling finances for nine ministries or missionaries.  Trini and I are proud to be a part of that team.

·We’ve seen God’s provision for the impossibilities of our financial needs.  Some of those who read this letter have been God’s instruments of provision.

This year, Martha is 14, Rachel is 9, David is 7, and Andrew is 4.  All four are now involved in AWANA at a local church.  Trini and I are delighted with this scripture memorization program.  Martha and Rachel do puppets in Children’s Church.  David is an observant helper there too.  Andrew just makes the ladies swoon.  Some of you may have noticed that Trini helps with correspondence.  As she learns more English, she feels much more a part of society, and is able to interact.  And I am working part-time in windshields, and as a safety instructor.  My vision for the prison ministry is to compile a curriculum from our teachings and from books and other materials, which will cover everything that we consider vital to discipleship of an inmate.

 Please remember in prayer:

¨That I’ll be effective in the compiling of the prison curriculum.

¨That those men who have left recently will have God’s grace “on the outside”.  Their names are Sixto, Pablo, Benny, Constantino, Escobar, and Alvaro.

¨Two months ago a sting operation confiscated close to 50 cell phones and other contraband within Texas prisons.  We’re feeling the effects of tightened security.  Pray that as volunteers we’ll continue to have the access to the inmates that we’ve always had.

As we look toward the New Year ahead, may your time with family and friends be special.  Trini, our children, and I want to express our thankfulness for the backing in prayer and finances, and for the friends that the Lord has provided for us across the country, and in our local church.

In Jesus’ Service, Mark and Trini