Exciting Times Challenging Times

I just got back from spending time with the ICC teams in Changsha and Heng Yang. It was a busy time, but one filled with some great blessings.

The first part of my trip was interviewing a strong candidate for the position of China Operations Director. I know that many of you have been praying that God will provide the right person. Whilst no final decision has been made, we were encouraged at how God seems to be moving in this process. Please pray that we will have wisdom as we consider this candidate.

It was also good to spend time with the Changsha Team. As many of you know the team is going through quite a lot of change - especially with part of the team moving down to Heng Yang to begin our work there. It was encouraging to see all that God is doing both in the team and also in the work. The team, whilst feeling the loss of their team mates, are also excited about the future. A meeting with the Director of the Changsha Welfare Center finished with his approval to begin searching for new premises to house our children from Ya Tang Cun. We hope that during 2006 these children will be able to move into much more ideal accommodation which can facilitate their care, education, therapy and play. Please keep praying as we seek God to lead us in this and provide for us financially.

The latter part of my time was with the team in Heng Yang. The team moved down to the city on February 8th and so they were still living out of boxes during my visit. However the work doesn't stop. The new ICC offices in the HY welfare center are coming along well, Yang Dong (the little girl with frost bite) is recovering after her surgery, the team's homes are getting sorted out, and there is a sense of God's presence in the midst of the busyness.

As I left China for Hong Kong I could not help feel excited. Excited that God is doing something new work in our midst. I also felt challenged - as there are many gaps that still need to be filled. Please pray that God would provide abundantly for every gap that we have.

During my brief stop in Hong Kong I got to meet with several people, one of whom is well connnected with the Hunan Provincal Government. He is willing to advocate for us to be given a piece of land on which we can then develop a new children's and youth center in Changsha. Please pray for Mr Huang that God will continue to move on his heart and that he will actively work to bring about this provision.

Thanks for your prayers and your care. The work of ICC rests upon the prayers of the saints - we value each one of you.

In Him,

David

David Gotts
Executive Director