Subject: We can make a difference together Our Mission TREASURE IN CLAY INTERNATIONAL TO KNOW HIM AND TO MAKE HIM KNOWN... I would have to say this statement is at the heart of all we do. The expression of this starts with us, those who represent Treasure, as well as those we seek to serve. Our heart has always been to take His Kingdom to a lost and hurting world, not to build a ministry. Along the way, our Lord has amazed us with opportunity and your continued generosity.  Throughout the years we have built homes, supported families of martyrs, educated children, fed children, built schools, bought land, helped build a church and drilled a well where villagers can come for fresh water (and hear about the Living Water offered in Jesus).  We've furnished pastors with much needed dependable vehicles, supported pastors and their ministries. We've held countless conferences, leadership development seminars and family conferences.  However, that is not to brag on what we have done, but the faithfulness of our Lord Who encouraged and provided along the way. He has simply taken our breath away with His goodness...through you! Thank you. I remember being in Uganda and meeting 25 little malnourished children in a small make-shift room called a school. Our hearts were touched and we furnished uniforms and decided to endeavor to provide meals. Next we were challenged with the possibility of building a school to meet the growing needs. And now, ten years later we have built two schools and feed 450 students there two meals a day while in school. They are healthy and well educated!  Since that time we have taken up two other feeding programs, replaced a school and now feed approximately 625 children a day in three works. Thank you!  But...the underlying desire of our ministry is to establish and empower the people of the land, whatever land we are serving, to be the ministers of the Gospel. We are seeing this happen and it thrills me to my toes! We have had the privilege of ministering in at least 25 nations and are continually awed by the hunger for the Word, the fruit produced by His message and the new doors that continue to open. Thank you! I could go on and on, but I won't. I just want to say again, thank you! As I sit at this computer thinking of all the ways the Lord has moved, His faithfulness and your generosity I am overwhelmed. Doors are open, the Message is needed, leaders are hungry, children continue to need food, homes need to be built, Bibles are requested...all this and more. Please consider what you might do, both in prayer and giving. Thank you does not touch what my heart feels, but remember this, I thank my God in every remembrance of you! JoNell We hope you enjoy the video (below) from our last visit to Uganda. Jane Champion did an outstanding job of capturing some of what we see along the way as well as one of the schools, the children and feeding program and snippets from the women's conference! It captures so much joy, both from our hearts and theirs!  We plan to be back in Uganda in June. The work continues!  Donate! Treasure in Clay is a fully recognized 501(c)3 If you prefer to send a check,  Make checks payable to Treasure in Clay 10560 St John Dr, Iola, TX 77861 PO Box 925414 Houston, TX 77292 281-798-8146

Subject: Merry Christmas to you and yours O What a Night! They seemed a simple couple, It seemed an ordinary manger, He seemed a normal babe... Yet, in an instant, everything changed. Hope was born. Peace was possible. Love was wrapped in a blanket, And the world slept! "And so the Living Expression became a man and lived among us! He's the One! Set your hearts on Him! And from Him we receive grace heaped upon more grace!" (Taken from the Passion Translation, John 1:14-16) As we move into the busyness of this Christmas season, let us take the time to once again set our hearts on Him...Jesus Christ the Lord! With the wonder of a child, let us again awaken to the absolute joy that this Savior laid down Heaven's glory to come to us. He came for you, He came for me!  O What a Savior! Dear Ones, As I ponder over the last year, I am so very grateful for your faithfulness in prayer, in giving and encouragement. Much has been accomplished. JESUS is being proclaimed! The Kingdom has been advanced, the Gospel has been shared, lives and communities have been transformed, churches revived and renewed, children are being fed, homes are being built, Bibles have been given, leaders are being developed...and so much more. You have been a part of it all. Thank you. Through your generosity the Lord has supplied and will continue to supply. I just want to say I am grateful! Merriest of Christmases to you and yours, JoNell  Treasure in Clay International PO Box 925414 Houston, TX 77292 or 10560 St John Drive Iola, TX 77861 Donate! STAY CONNECTED  ‌

Summer 2018

Treasure in Clay... seeking treasure hidden in darkness

Reflections thus far... 2018 has been a wonderful year. We enjoyed a fabulous trip to Uganda this spring and were encouraged by the progress in KabaGala and Kinoni. Below is an excerpt from a letter written to us from the Youth Ministry. "As we express our gratitude we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. This year yields it's harvest having abundant blessings that our loving Father has granted us. We had one cow after our piggly project (this effort failed in the beginning) but from the support we got from you, we were enabled by God to have another cow and now we have two cows, of which we hope they are to conceive before this year ends. We also started a small credit and saving sacco (micro lending) within our group which have given us chance of taking (I believe they mean giving) loans with a very little interest and this has helped some friends in groups to own plots of land, building houses and others starting businesses like Boda Boda riding (this is a motorcycle taxi service). We also launched missions to our neighbouring churches that were planted by our mother church KabaGala Baptist under Pastor Abel, teaching the Scripture in it's truthfulness encouraging our fellow leaders...we have reached Kiselaka...Kabalungi Baptist Church. We now have weekly discipleship classes in all those churches. We are pleased to say Thank You. We commit ourselves to serve God whether we have less or more. We will always thank God our Creator..." ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ As I read this letter, I am encouraged by their tenacity and am reminded of the story from the fifth chapter of Luke. The fisherman had fished all night and caught nothing. Jesus stepped up to the shore as they were cleaning their nets after a disappointing night of fishing. He asked if He could use one of their boats. Peter settled him in his boat and pushed a short distance from shore. After Jesus finished addressing the crowd, He urged Peter to push into the deep, put down the nets and try again. Peter was clearly taken with what he had seen and heard from the Master but told Him they had fished all night to no avail. "...but at Your word I will (do as you said and) lower the nets (again)." (Amp) We know the rest of the story. The nets were not just full, but almost breaking.  Again ...what a powerful word. Look through the Scriptures and see how often our Lord says again. He is the Lord of our "agains" and is never short on new chances, beginnings or seasons. Where might He be challenging you? If He is, embrace a fresh start. Their obedience not only produced a tremendous catch, it changed the course of their lives forever. It just might yours! Try again! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ We held a conference in a new location. It was well attended and the response to the Gospel was such an encouragement. It was attended by leaders from different denominations. The group was attentive and a blessing to us! We continue to hold a one day leadership development day while in the area. The group has grown and is flourishing. These brothers and sisters can teach us so much about commitment and perseverance. We received reports, lifted each other up and treated them to a great meal at the hotel where we stay. It is a blessing for them, and delights our hearts to fellowship with our family there.

Ongoing projects and updates... We continue three feeding projects, two in Uganda and one in Kenya. As of our last report, the number served five days a week is now close to 700 students. We praise God for your ongoing generosity! Without you, many of these children would have only one or two meals a week. Thank you... Treasure was able to help purchase a newer vehicle for Pastor Abel. This is the second time we have been able to help a pastor in this regard. This is such a blessing to them as they are on the road serving many congregations; delivering the Gospel, supplies, goods and much needed food. Four more Homes for Hope have been built. This is one of our favorite outreach projects as it not only provides a home for a needy family, it becomes a lighthouse/Bible Study in the village. Lives are being impacted in a tremendous way through this effort. The work is continuing in Kumi, Uganda. The conference center is well under way. Some 100 homeless children and teens are being housed and fed. There are outreaches every Saturday to the village. The vision to begin a Bible/Vocational center is being launched.  There are other endeavors ongoing and in the works, but we wanted to give you highlights of the year so far. We so appreciate your faithfulness! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ A small group will return to Kenya in September. We have another extraordinary opportunity to reach God's people with encouragement, equipping believers through the Word of God. As we work with established leadership from different denominations, the Church (not a building) is empowered to do the work of the Kingdom. Christians, in this area are in the vast minority. It is our hope to furnish Bibles to this group. Many leaders do not have their own Bible. The cost of one Bible is approximately $15.  We would ask you to continue in prayer for Treasure. We count on that support first and foremost.  Needs always arise and we give into the lives of God's people and Kingdom efforts where we can. Thank you for helping us make this happen! Be blessed as you continue to be a blessing, JoNell B Gerland Treasure in Clay is a fully recognized 501(c)3. All donations are tax deductible and go directly into the work of the ministry...no overhead, no percentage taken. You can easily donate through the Donate button at the bottom of this newsletter or send your gift to: Treasure in Clay PO Box 925414 Houston, TX 77292 or 10560 St John Dr Iola, TX 77861 ‌

STAY CONNECTED  ‌   ‌   ‌

Donate!

Dear JoNell Gerland,   Your campaign 'Merry Christmas!' was sent on 12/12/2017 around 8:30 AM EST.   Below is a copy of the message your subscribers received. See how your campaign is doing by visiting Reports in your account to get real-time results and stats.

Subject: Merry Christmas! From Treasure in Clay As we move from the season of Thanksgiving into Christmas, we are so grateful for you, the year you've made possible through your generosity in prayer and giving. We also look forward to the season of Advent with expectancy. New beginnings were made possible through the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. We pray we all come to the manger with renewed wonder as the age old story takes fresh root and meaning in our hearts and lives. Oh what a Savior!!   "For unto us a Child is born, to us a Son is given; and the government shall be upon His shoulder, and His name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of His government and of peace there shall be no end..." Isaiah 9:6-7a(Amplified) Does peace rule in your life today? Colossians 3:15 (Amplified) says that we are to let the peace from Christ rule or act as an umpire continually in our hearts. This seems to be a difficult assignment in our day. But, my friends, if He said it, it is possible. I am praying that now and in the year to come we let the Prince of Peace once more make our hearts His home...not just visitation but habitation. Let this become a defining characteristic in us as His children. The world would take notice! May the peace of Christ rule and reign in our hearts, our homes and our families this holy season...Merry Christmas! JoNell Kenya...    Our trip was powerful. We saw God move in amazing ways. We knew His presence and His joy in our time together. We gave away 150 Bibles to Catholic leadership represented in two one day conferences. The response to the simplicity of the Gospel was tremendous. Lives were changed as God encouraged His people. We've been invited back! Our God is so full of surprises!   Thank you BCH...     Your gifts of baseball caps and ties were a tremendous hit! The people loved them. It was as if Christmas had come to town early. We watched women and men walking away laughing wearing hats from one and ties from the other. The smiles were contagious!  Our Lord met us! The picture to the left is from our Sunday church service. We met in a beautiful church with eight churches represented. We were privileged to teach Sunday School and then preach in the main service. What you see is a snapshot of God's powerful presence among us. As we prayed, before giving an invitation to respond, people began to come to the altar and fall on their faces, weeping and praying. There was an awesome silence as we left that day, absolutely overwhelmed by the Lord's goodness as He worked among us.  This church was in the middle of nowhere, possibly close to the ends of the earth...or, as they say, we could probably see it from there. But, we would not have chosen to be anywhere else that day. God came and He took our breath away!  Your generosity helped paved the way for this day. Thank you! Jolly Kids School We hope you enjoy this short video from these beautiful children. They met us with great joy and multiple songs, this is just one! So precious. We continue to feed them one meal a day. They are so much healthier than when we began this three years ago. In a picture below you will see some of them in their new uniforms. Many times these are their only clothes. Thank you! We are now investing in three school feeding programs. We continue with KabaGala in partnership with the school and the church there. The first class we met all those years back has now graduated. How thankful we are for being part of their lives. We also help with a feeding program in KumiTown. The children, mostly orphans are being trained and educated for a better future. They are given a safe place to lay their heads at night! And, they are hearing the Gospel!  How great is our God! Unseen blessings... One never knows...this picture represents one of our favorite and most poignant memories. As we had the privilege of washing Father Evans, the Bishop's feet and prayed for him, God touched him deeply. He later addressed the group and spoke of just how affected he was by the Spirit of God as we prayed "those lovely words". He added that he had been so very blessed by Treasure's ministry. We had not come to change them, but to make them better Catholics. What a blessing. Within a month of our return we were given the sad news that this dear man of God was killed for standing up against the "powers that be" in that country. He was a brave man, he was a brother. We grieve with the people there who lost a powerful and Godly leader.  And so, we thank you, we bless you and wish you Merry Christmas!  God has done great things this year, and you have done your part. We anticipate another fruitful year in 2018. We desire to continue the feeding programs, encourage the saints and equip God's people to minister in His name in whatever corner of the world they may be. We are all the ministers of the Gospel. May 2018 be the year we each step into the reality of His peace with a fresh love for our Lord and for His people!   Blessings in abundance, JoNell B Gerland p.s. don't they look so cute in their new uniforms provided by your giving!  ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ We are a fully recognized 501(c)3, any gift you make will be tax deductible. As always, we take no overhead, any gift you give will go toward the ministry!  Make checks payable to Treasure in Clay, send to: PO Box 925414 Houston, TX 77292 or 10560 St John Dr Iola, TX 77861 or use our Donate Now page through WePay! Thank you!  Donate! Treasure in Clay International PO Box 925414 Houston, TX 77292 281-798-8146   Treasure in Clay International | 10560 St John Drive, Iola, TX 77861 Unsubscribe trnclay@aol.com Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by trnclay@aol.com in collaboration with Try it free today

Dear JoNell Gerland,   Your campaign 'Update from Treasure in Clay' was sent on 8/15/2017 around 4:16 PM EDT.   Below is a copy of the message your subscribers received. See how your campaign is doing by visiting Reports in your account to get real-time results and stats.

Subject: Update from Treasure in Clay                                                                                       ...seeking treasure hidden in darkness Transformation...a beautiful thing!   Summer, for me, has always been a time for reflection.  It is a time to look back with a grateful heart.  It is also a time to look forward with a heart of expectancy.  That's exactly where we find ourselves at Treasure in Clay. As we ponder this past year we are amazed at what the Lord has done.  We spent a week in Uganda in late spring.  We again visited our dear friends in KabaGala.  What a picture of transformation.  We were both excited and amazed at the progress the village has made since 2009, when on our first visit, we found a small plot of land with a church and a building ready to collapse which housed 25 malnourished little ones in a fledgling school. Our hearts were touched from day one and sensed there was something unique about this place, it's people and the land.  We wanted to be a part of investing in it's future.  Who knew what could happen in just eight short years?  We certainly did not. We determined to feed the children (two meals a day) and made plans to make the small school room more permanent on our next visit, which we did (it is now being used as the kitchen for the school).  Our second trip we decided to step out in faith hopeful to raise funds to build a school.  And...that was just a beginning.  We continue to be amazed and blessed by what the Lord has done.  And, He's done it through people like you!   As we have continued in partnership, these are some of the things we've seen in just KabaGala.       Built a block of rooms with a school office.      Purchased more land and built new latrines.      Added a bore hole for fresh and clean water for school and surrounding village.      Added a playground.      A new thatched open air hut for meetings, prayer, etc.      Built another wing to the school to accommodate the 325 students in attendance.      Continue to feed the children two meals a day.      Provide children's multivitamins which has dramatically improved their health.      Purchased uniforms for children in need.       Truly, what you see is words trying to explain what God has done...they are inadequate!  I am attaching a video taken by a first-time attendee of what was encountered as we drove into the property at the end of the road.  For those of who've been with this group multiple times, all I can say is, it took our breath away.     God is Good! Be blessed, you are a blessing... JoNell The work goes on, The Word is spread and the Kingdom of God is advancing.   And so, the work continues and there is still much to be done.  We are now supporting three feeding programs between Uganda and Kenya.  In total there are approximately 650 children a month being fed.   We have been awarded a grant to begin the building of a complex in Kumi that will house homeless children, train ministers in Biblical studies as well as vocational training (as it seems bi-vocational pastors are more successful in their efforts.   Facilities will include a meeting hall used for conferences, church meetings, outreach into the community and various training programs.   We have a tremendous opportunity to go back into Kenya, taking the Gospel to hungry saints.  We will be holding a conference with Catholic leadership in September. Our heart's desire has always been to build the Kingdom, not a ministry...to see the Gospel taken to the marginalized and often overlooked.  We share the Word of God, our lives and love.  As needs have made themselves known and God tugged at our hearts we have tried to provide.  No one stands more in awe of what God has done and is doing than we are.  Jesus Christ is in the transformation business! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Some of the ways you an continue to partner with us in the days ahead:      - We have been asked to provide Bibles for 50  It is not        unusual for people to not have a Bible of their own, even leaders.  We want                to fulfill this.      - Jolly Kids School children are in need of new school uniforms.  They wear out        quickly as they are likely their only clothes and they continue to grow.        - Continued needs in school feeding programs.      - Supplies for new work in Kumi school and vocational training program.      - Paperback books of the Gospel of John to be given to new believers and        used in Bible Studies by believers wanting to grow in their faith.      - Teachers and cooks at Jolly Kids School are volunteers.  We'd like to make         a gift to them for their hard work and dedication.      -  Homes for Hope.  These cost around $500.  They not only give a desparate         family a new beginning, they become a lighthouse within their village to spread         the Gospel.      - General funds for conference costs.  We each pay our own travel expenses on           mission trips, but we feed the attendees and take care of overhead.  Each          conference costs in the neighborhood of $2500-3500.  A great investment.      - Pray, Pray and Pray some more! As God opens doors, we will endeavor to walk right through them! To say thank you seems inadequate, but we are grateful beyond words.  Without you, none of this could have happened!  You are a blessing beyond measure.  Gifts can be made to: Treasure in Clay PO Box 925414 Houston, TX 77292 or 10560 St John Drive Iola, TX 77861 or you can use our new Donate Now page! http://conta.cc/2pC4A8q   Remember we have no overhead, your donation will go in it's entirety to Kingdom work! (SO sorry, the donation page went out before the Newsletter) (You will receive a second email giving opportunity to give online should you have problems with the above URL) Treasure in Clay is a fully recognized 501(c)3 Website     About Us     Service     Blog Spot     Newsletter     Prayer Request     Contact Us Treasure in Clay International 281-798-8146 trnclay@aol.com www.treasureinclay.org Treasure in Clay International 281-798-8146 trnclay@aol.com http://www.treasureinclay.org Treasure in Clay International, 10560 St John Drive, Iola, TX 77861 SafeUnsubscribe™ trnclay@aol.com Forward this email | Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by trnclay@aol.com in collaboration with Try it free today

Dear JoNell Gerland,   Your campaign 'Treasure in Clay International ~ JoNell's Update' was sent on 11/2/2016 around 10:03 AM EDT.   Below is a copy of the message your subscribers received. See how your campaign is doing by visiting Reports in your account to get real-time results and stats.

Subject: Treasure in Clay International ~ JoNell's Update A Year in Review Dear Friends, Thank you so very much for your prayers, gifts and support!  Our recent trip to Kenya was exceptional in all ways.  We felt your prayers carrying us through our days, ministry and outreach.  The fruitfulness of the trip was phenomenal and is continuing.  You are part of all that has happened through the ministry of Treasure in Clay.  Please click on the video below to see a portion of the difference we are making.  Bless you!!  We appreciate you! Every Picture Does Indeed Tell a Story! We hope you enjoy this simple photo book.  It is just a sampling of the multifaceted work Treasure does.  There is a story behind every picture and each one brings a smile to our faces.  We hope it does to yours as well because you are part of it! Living Large...Just Give Me Jesus https://vimeo.com/189215452 Until Next Time... the Work Continues! A Look Forward...Be a Part of the Future! As we look to the future, the doors are wide open.  We will continue to work alongside the local church to encourage, equip, establish and empower local leadership.  Our desire is to share the Gospel message in clarity as well as applicable ways...we desire to see the written Word become the Living Word...individually and corporately.   We have added another school-feeding program in Kumi, Uganda (making three).  We will now be feeding around 600 children a month. We hope to provide Christmas parties for each group.  These are outreaches to the families. While it is a celebration with gifts and food, it is also a powerful platform to share the Gospel with the villages represented. We have been invited to provide a conference for Catholic leadership in the areas near Kisumu, Kenya.  They have heard of the work we are doing with other groups, seeing the fruit; and want to participate in what God is doing...amazing!   We are partnering with three dear brothers (calling themselves East Africa Treasure in Clay) to encourage the synergy we see in their leadership.  They are each Kingdom-minded visionaries bringing different giftings to the table.  They will indeed impact East Africa. Bibles are always a need!  Our goal is to provide at least 100.  Our last conference was with a group who, up to that time, were not given access to the Scriptures.  They are now being encouraged to have their own Bibles and to read them...even the women!  What a joy!! There are at least three mission trips in the works for 2017.  We covet your prayers, your support, and even your participation, should the Lord be tugging at your heart. JoNell B Gerland Treasure in Clay International PO Box 925414 Houston, TX 77292-5414 Make checks payable to Treasure in Clay or Give online through WePay http://conta.cc/2fnIG97 Treasure in Clay is a fully recognized 501(c)3.  Your gift is tax deductible and the entirety of the gift will go to the work.  We have no overhead.  From day one our hope has been to build the Kingdom of God...not a ministry!  Be a part!  Thank you so much for your attention and continued support! Treasure in Clay International 281-798-8146 trnclay@aol.com www.treasureinclay.org   Treasure in Clay International, 1650 Du Barry Ln,P.O. Box 925414, Houston, TX 77018 SafeUnsubscribe™ trnclay@aol.com Forward this email | Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by trnclay@aol.com in collaboration with Try it free today

Dear JoNell Gerland,   Your campaign 'Check out the latest from Treasure in Clay International' was sent on 7/19/2016 around 10:01 AM EDT.   Below is a copy of the message your subscribers received. See how your campaign is doing by visiting Reports in your account to get real-time results and stats.

 

Subject: Check out the latest from Treasure in Clay International                                                                                       ...seeking treasure hidden in darkness EVERY PICTURE TELLS THE STORY   Indeed, pictures are powerful!  They capture a moment in time, an emotion, a beautiful face, a life, a hope, a dream and sometimes pain and heartbreak  This letter is simply to allow you in to a few of those moments Treasure has experienced in the last months.  We want you to have a glimpse at the difference you've made through your prayers and gifts. The needs and opportunities are ongoing.  We thank you for your continued generosity! Snapshots in Time... The new school addition is almost complete.         What a story here! We were introduced to 25 malnourished, but greatly loved children eight years ago while doing our first conference in KabaGala, Uganda.  What was a tumble down structure has grown to a permanent structure used for the kitchen (taken in from the outside and the elements).   Two new schools house almost 300 students.  The students are now able to finish their public education in this school.  Some will be able to go on to higher education, but this will ensure all can continue their studies in a Christian environment.  By God's grace and your gifts we are still feeding these children (in partnership with KabaGala Church) two meals a day.  Amazing!! Jolly Kids Nursery School is a new project we took on last year while in Kenya.  We met 105 orphaned children who were meeting five days a week in a church in a very poor area outside of Kisumu. A Volunteer staff teaches and cooks for them.  They are excellent brothers and sisters.  The children were happy and so obviously loved learning.  They were receiving three meals A WEEK.  We determined we could do better.  They now are being provided FIVE meals through your generosity.  And, we are told these are their only meals during the week.  It is noteworthy to mention that when these children lined up for their meal, not one pushed, no one broke in line and they even shared as they sat together eating.        We could see the  school/church was on its last leg and appeared a bit dangerous. A few weeks after our return it crumpled under high winds.  Through a gift we were able to rebuild the church into a more permanent structure.  We now feed a hundred or so children. Your gifts make this possible.  Not only do the children have a safe place to gather and learn, be nourished and loved, the congregation has a new and safe structure to gather and worship in.  When the Lord opens a door to this kind of opportunity, we desire to continue to walk through.  $450 a month is feeding these children.  $2500 built a church.  The pastor there has become a dear brother and friend...pray for them and consider being a part of blessing this work.     A new Home for Hope going up in Kenya.        These homes are built to shelter families who are virtually homeless or whose homes are in such ill repair they are dangerous.  They are built within a couple of days and then dedicated as a lighthouse in the village.  The village is invited to the dedication of the home and a Bible is presented to the family. A pastor (who has identified the need and potential) holds a Bible Study there in the home weekly.  After a time leadership is identified and it becomes a home church with continued care and oversight from the Pastor!  What an opportunity to affect change within a community.  For $500 you can build one.  The work goes on, The Word is spread and the Kingdom of God is advancing.   We continue to see fabulous opportunities to take the Gospel to the world...        Years ago I was told when founding Treasure, with virtually nothing but a vision, that while the people we served would love our hugs, it would be our money they would want.  I was reminded of Peter and John who told the begging lame man they had no money, but what they had they would give.  In truth the Gospel was their treasure and they willingly gave.       Through these years I have discovered that missions is costly to all involved, but as a friend of mine says, "the pay is good."  Every time we see a response to the Gospel, a soul saved, a healing manifest, a life changed, hope restored, a village renewed, a child fed, a smiling face, a full belly...every time, I am grateful.  Indeed, the pay is good!        I have also discovered that yes, people do respond to love, but they also need our help. The Gospel changes lives, families, villages...their environment.  Funds are needed and go a long way in these nations, our little makes a huge difference; however, it is the Gospel that is the foundation, the change agent and the vehicle that truly transforms lives and ultimately nations.   ************************************************************************************************************* Some highlights you have participated in...      - Helped a pastor purchase a new vehicle.  He needs reliable transport to take teams,     resources and relief to his nation's most needy and unreached.      - Purchased a boda-boda (aka motorcycle) to increase the effectiveness of a farmer/businessman.  With greater income and mobility he is helping furnish vegetables to families in need.      - 100 Pastors now have Bibles of their own      - 500 Gospels of John are being studied in various churches      - 7 Homes for Hope       - 275 Students and Families had a Christmas party and given food supplies      - Vitamins were distributed to KabaGala students      - School uniforms were furnished for Jolly Kids Nursery School      - A pastor who earns his living as a tailor was furnished with his own sewing machine      - Three conferences were held      - Leadership Development continues       And the needs and opportunities continue.  We will be back in Kenya this year reaching out to a group who has never had a conference, in need of a clear Gospel call and hungry for the Word of God.        We will meet with three Christian ministries to pray, explore and make plans for the future, their needs, their hopes...their vision... in order to come alongside them to see their nations grow in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ! We appreciate your prayers, your gifts, your encouragement!   Thank you!! We continue to endeavor to be that willing vessel in the hand of our Lord.  It is a privilege and we thank you for your investment in Treasure in Clay, which becomes an investment in spreading the Gospel.  We have not changed, we do not take any overhead and your gift goes to the work designated or general funds for conference expenses.  Words cannot express our gratitude, but know this comes from a grateful and full heart! Blessings...JoNell B Gerland Gifts can be made to: Treasure in Clay PO Box 925414 Houston, TX 77292 or you can use our new Donate Now page! http://conta.cc/29D7h1v (You will receive a second email giving opportunity to give online should you have problems with the above URL) Treasure in Clay is a fully recognized 501(c)3 Website     About Us     Service     Blog Spot     Newsletter     Prayer Request     Contact Us Treasure in Clay International 281-798-8146 trnclay@aol.com www.treasureinclay.org   Treasure in Clay International, 1650 Du Barry Ln, P.O. Box 925414, Houston, TX 77018 SafeUnsubscribe™ trnclay@aol.com Forward this email | Update Profile | About our service provider Sent by trnclay@aol.com in collaboration with Try it free today

 

Subject: Merry Christmas from Treasure in Clay Treasure in ClayInternational Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas! Be the light...      "The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light...For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder.  And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace."  Isaiah 9:2a, 6 NKJ      "Arise shine; for your light HAS come!  And the glory of the Lord is risen upon YOU.  For behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and deep darkness the people; but the Lord will arise over you, and His glory shall be seen upon you.  Isaiah 60:1-2 NKJ Emphasis mine Our light has come, He lives within us!  Consider that today.  Be His light in this broken and darkened world.  Stand out because you are His!   Be blessed...you are a blessing, JoNell This precious girl is one of the children in the church school in Kenya.  105 orphans attend the school and are fed there.  These are the only meals the children receive.  They never push or shove, but wait for their turn and will even share if someone needs something...so much to learn from them. Thank you for another wonderful year.  Through your generosity Treasure has been privileged this year to continue to touch lives in many ways...here are a just a few:      - We continue to feed 250 children in KabaGala two meals a day.      - We are currently building a new facility at the school in KabaGala to house         upper grades.      - We have held several conferences and leadership development seminars          in both Uganda and Kenya.      - Completed and dedicated the church in Kinoni, Uganda.      - Built three Houses for Hope in Kenya.      - Taken on feeding 105 orphans in Kenya.      - Funded transport for a farmer.      - Provided school uniforms for the orphans.      - Rebuilding now a collapsed church in Kenya.      - Provided 100 Bibles for leadership in Kenya.      - Photographed school children and their families, leaving lasting memories.      - and much, much more... Opportunities still exist to help with the ongoing feeding of the children in both Uganda and Kenya.   We want to continue to build Houses for Hope in Kenya.  These are built as lighthouses within a village.  The family chosen for the new home is in need of a hand up and agrees that it will be a home church.   Pastors will work with them to establish a Bible Study and identify a perspective leader.  Within six months they are on their way to becoming an outreach within the community.  They are given a new home, a Bible and a new beginning.  What a fabulous way to reach people.  As the Message translation states...Jesus became flesh and blood and moved into the neighborhood!  This is exactly what they are doing and we are honored to be part of this movement.  For a gift of $400, you can build one of these homes. God has been so faithful and enabled us to do so much more than we could have ever imagined, but it would not happen without your support...so thank you, thank you, thank you!       ************************************************************************************* The vision of Treasure in Clay has never wavered.  We are here, not to build a ministry, but the Kingdom.  We reach out to serve and walk alongside local churches.  Our hope is to help identify, equip and encourage leadership to be ministers in their nations.  They are often hidden in the pew, not realizing their potential or portion in sharing the Gospel.  It is both a joy and a privilege to see what the Lord is doing.  God is giving creative ideas to His people and they are doing the work in amazing ways.  We are blessed to have a small part in it!   2016 offers several opportunities.  We are praying for wisdom, timing and funds to meet the needs as they present themselves.  We count on and are grateful for your prayers and generosity.  Thank you for all you've done to make 2015 one of our most effective years and for all you will do to make the future bright... as we, together continue and seek to... BE THE LIGHT! ************************************************* Treasure in Clay International PO Box 925414 Houston, TX 77292 Forward this email This email was sent to trnclay@aol.com by trnclay@aol.com |    Update Profile/Email Address | Rapid removal with SafeUnsubscribe™  |  About our service provider. Treasure in Clay International | 1650 Du Barry Ln | P.O. Box 925414 | Houston | TX | 77018

 

Subject: Summer 2015 Treasure in Clay International Every picture tells a story!  This one certainly does.  Thank you for your continued support through prayer and resources.  What a blessing you have been! Greetings...    and blessings to you this summer!  I hope this finds you well and enjoying the goodness of the Lord.  How faithful He is.  Continually I am reminded that this faithfulness, His, is the bedrock to all we stand on!  No matter your circumstance, no matter the season, no matter your fears; remember, He is with you, He is true, He is faithful! I've been pondering the story of Lazarus.  We are all familiar with it, but sometimes it is a good thing to think an old story through with a new filter. Jesus was summoned by Mary and Martha whom He loved dearly. Their beloved brother, Lazarus, was ill.  Now Jesus cared deeply for this family, and yet He chose to pause on purpose.  Puzzling.  Before He leaves to be with them Lazarus dies.  Mary and Martha are left to wonder why Jesus did not come to them in time.  They are grieving when Jesus arrives. They knew He could have healed Lazurus, they expected He would. Healing was all they knew to ask for.  And yes, He could have healed Lazarus, that is a certainty.  However, He wanted to do more than they knew to ask for.  Jesus wanted to reveal resurrection power.  Where have you prayed expecting a certain outcome only to find yourself waiting, grieving, even giving up?  Could it be He wants to do more for you than you know how to ask?  Choose trust.  Choose to wait and watch. This Lord we love is faithful and better than we believe...and certainly better than any of us deserve. And last, remember, you are His treasure and He loves you dearly! Be blessed, you are appreciated... JoNell ************************** We've had a great year.  It is with great expectancy we are returning to Kenya where we will hold several conferences.  We are thrilled to be going back to this land and to co-labor alongside our dear sisters and brothers in Christ!  Please keep us in your prayers.  ************************** Click on link below to watch this year's video produced by Jane Champion.  It says more than I could ever relate in writing.  Our theme this year in Uganda was Every Picture Tells a Story...indeed it does!   https://vimeo.com/135366470 Password: uganda Should you wish to give, contact us, or request prayer; we'd be happy to hear from you.  See contact information below. Treasure in Clay was founded in 2001.  We have taken the Gospel and strengthened the body of Christ in twenty nations.  We have no overhead, every penny you give makes a difference.  Should you want to touch the nations of the world with the love of Jesus Christ, please consider a gift.  It will go a long way!! A Few Opportunities - School-feeding program - KabaGala ($15 a month per child) Teacher salaries ($15 a month) Furnishings for new church in Kinoni General Fund -  Goes to conference expenses (we house, feed and often transport attendees),  Needs as they arise, and Taking the Gospel to the Nations. Treasure in Clay International trnclay@aol.com 281-798-8146 P.O. Box 925414 Houston, TX 77292-5414 We are a registered 501(c)3 Forward this email This email was sent to trnclay@aol.com by trnclay@aol.com |    Update Profile/Email Address | Rapid removal with SafeUnsubscribe™  |  About our service provider. Treasure in Clay International | 1650 Du Barry Ln | P.O. Box 925414 | Houston | TX | 77018

 

Enjoy some of our past newsletters.  

Treasure in Clay International                               ...seeking treasure hidden in darkness Greetings!   I've recently been thinking on the wonder of the Lord's attention to detail.  We see such clear evidence of this in scripture.  Just consider the story of His feeding the five thousand.  Not only was He able to take a simple picnic lunch and turn it into a massive feeding program, He was concerned that the disciples pick up the "scraps".  And interestingly, there was a basketful for all twelve to ponder.  He could have left those broken pieces, but He wanted them gathered...picked up.  There would be use for them down the road.  He wanted the disciples to see what He could do with what was simply on hand.  It was through His hand and by His touch that it became more than enough.     It is the same with our lives.  First of all, He takes what is available. He blesses it, breaks it in order to multiply it and gives it out.  Then, He even picks up the leftovers for His use.  Pieces we think of no value, even broken bits that have been thrown aside, He can use  if we simply let Him have unhindered access to the life we've lived and are living today.  So, if you feel broken in any way, cast aside or overlooked, be of good cheer;  He is paying attention and will pick up every scrap of your life for His good purpose.  While He is working in you, He can work through you.  You may never know it, but people are paying attention to see just how we, as God's children, live out our life's journey.   So, let Him have it all... In His Hand, JoNell Thank You...      Because of you, your continued generosity, precious children are enjoying a new school, new desks, supplies, uniforms, good food, clean water and now a new latrine. We are grateful.   The work continues, we have many opportunities to touch lives... ~      We hope to buy land for a new church plant in Kinoni Village.   ~      We still feed these children two meals a day.  The numbers grow  and the need is ongoing. ~      We offer spiritual nourishment through leadership development, conferences and ministry.  We pay for food, housing  and supplies for each outreach while working alongside the  established ministry and leadership in each nation.   ~     And much, much more as opportunities arise on the field. Please pray for our team leaving shortly for Uganda.  We will be serving the people there through two conferences in Kampala and Kumi.  Our theme will be ... Living With Eternal Purpose. We appreciate your prayers and continued support... About Treasure in Clay International...      In an effort to reach into dark places of the world through missions, we formed the ministry Treasure in Clay.  Since 2001 we have been in at least twenty nations and continue to work to make life better through the Word of God, ministry, leadership development, encouragement, physical and emotional support as well as education, building projects and feeding programs as the Lord opens doors.    Our desire is to give what is eternal through the Gospel and augment it through relief and development work as the Lord provides.  We are blessed and grateful...actually, we are in awe of all the Lord has done!   The Lord made known to me early on that we would go to places few would be willing to go, reaching out to the outcast, forgotten and hurting of the world.  He has been faithful.  And, it is our privilege.   Someone told me once that people would like our hugs, but really just wanted our money.  I have been blessed to find that people most want relationship, and few have ever asked for money.  Out of continued relationship with the people we serve and serve alongside, we have made a difference.  You are part of that.       Be Blessed,        JoNell B Gerland Founder and President       Jesus took the bread, He  blessed it, He broke it, He  gave it...He made himself  known in the breaking of  the bread! Summer 2013 From Our Last Journey Children at KabaGala Church and KabaGala School enjoying the new well!     Terrell dedicating well...what a joy!     Children, eagerly await us, eager to learn!    A thing of beauty!   These pictures say it all.  There is a continuous stream of people from the surrounding area to pump fresh, clean water.  They also are hearing about the Living Water...Jesus Christ our Lord.     You made this happen!   ~   Pastor Abel has started a mission church in Kinoni Village.  This is a larger area and they have already outgrown the room they were meeting in.  It is our desire to purchase land in order to put up a tent to hold meetings in as they continue to reach out to their world with the Gospel of Jesus Christ our Lord.     We estimate the costs for land and tent to be $7-10,000. You can help!     ~   The school was required to move the latrines in order to remain open.  We have purchased land and are in the process of putting in five latrines (they only had two).  This has been paid for, but has left our resources low.  Any gift you make will be so appreciated and will go toward the ongoing work in Uganda.  We take no percentage, it goes straight to the mission.   We thank you ahead of time!      ~   Please make checks payable to  Treasure in Clay We are a fully recognized 501(c)3 and your gift is tax deductible.   P.O. Box 925414 Houston, TX 77292-5414      Feel free to contact us... TrNClay@aol.com 281.798.8146   See... www.treasureinclay.com Or... visit us on Facebook

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