La Universidad de Salamanca

One of the oldest universities in Europe resides in Salamanca, Spain, and hosts more than 31,000 students each year.  The university boasts of being a “focal point of culture and learning” since its founding in 1218 A.D.   Many renowned men have come from La Universidad de Salamanca.  The famous author, Miguel de Cervantes, who wrote “Don Quixote," graduated from this university.  And if I might brag a little, Lorena received her degree from the University of Salamanca in 2009 with a B. A. in Occupational Therapy.  This center of academia remains a prestigious school for not only the Spanish but also for many foreign exchange students.  In fact, during our deputation we have met parents who have had children in this university. 

The university, more significantly, has also become a focal point for ministry.  One of our future coworkers, Jodi Harrison, has targeted this ministry.  Working under Campus Bible Fellowship of Baptist Mid-Missions, Jodi has determined to integrate herself into this academic world and culture so as to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  The Grupos Bíblicos Universitarios (Intervarsity Christian Fellowship in Spain) wrote an article figuring that of the 78,000 University students in this region approximately 50 know Christ as their Savior. That’s over 1,500 unsaved students for every one Christian student.

Lorena and I had the chance to spend a few days with Jodi while in the New England area and to hear of her excitement for the joy of the Gospel in the University of Salamanca.  We are eager to one day work with Jodi for the glory of God in Spain.  Check out her website at www.salamancaforchrist.com or send her an email at jodiharrison81@yahoo.com. 

Lorena on Graduation Day

Jodi Harrison

Living Stone Baptist Church

In all of our updates we have failed to tell you of perhaps the most important aspect of our ministry.  We could not accomplish or even begin the deputation process if it were not for Living Stone Baptist Church in Quakertown, Pennsylvania, our home church.  Living Stone has more than simply affirmed our call into full time ministry and service for Christ in Spain.  They have enabled it and encouraged it!

Living Stone’s history begins nine years ago when the idea for planting a church came up at First Baptist Church of Perkaise, Pennsylvania.  The idea developed into a reality in January 2003, when they held their first worship service in a building adjacent to First Baptist.  Tim Vander Stel was appointed as the pastor of this fledgling church and has served there since.  Approximately sixty members uprooted themselves from the comforts of a familiar church and rooted themselves in a new church plant. 

Lorena and I have an excellent example to imitate as we seek to multiply by church planting in Spain.  Pastor Tim has been a mentor, a leaer, and a shepherd to us.  We are grateful to God for a church and leadership that has affirmed God’s leading in our lives and has enabled us to seek other partnerships for the joy of the Gospel in Spain.  Acts 13 cannot be overlooked as Living Stone Baptist Church has done much like the church in Antioch did for Paul and Barnabas.  “Then after fasting and praying they laid hands on them and sent them off.” (Acts 13:3)