by John Sciullo
While we continue to adjust to the challenges of the COVID-19 Pandemic, it is encouraging to know that we serve a mighty God. The China Outreach Ministries, an organization serving the spiritual needs of Asian students, continues to impact students by exposing them to the Good News of the Gospel. While health concerns continue, along with travel restrictions and political tension, C.O.M.’s geographical footprint has spread 500 miles westward towards the University of Illinois. A husband/wife couple from the local ministry have enrolled for online courses at the University. This allows them to complete their degrees and live together while continuing with the small group environment in Pittsburgh led by Ken Wagoner. A small group of new students has also joined despite previously mentioned travel restrictions. They are transfers to the Pittsburgh area from within the United States border.
As the pandemic continues, there are changes in the tools that are being used, but perhaps the biggest change for Ken and his family is the adjustment necessary to address his wife’s declining health from MS. Eleven months ago, the year began with Rosie in the hospital. Since that time she has not returned to the level of health she had prior to hospitalization. There is little that Rosie can do without assistance and Ken is the primary source of that assistance. Consequently, Ken has reduced his workload to part-time and retired from the United Methodist Church on October 1, 2020.
The Mobilization Team asks that you keep Ken and Rosie in your prayers, as well as our Asian guests who seek to better know the Lord.
