Wednesday, June 30, 2010
A Prayer by Liv Hicks
Father, Thank You for the Mudges and for their prayer requests. I ask that You go before them and they be tuned into all that You want them to do. I ask for strong Christian growth in the diocese; I ask for joyful preparation times for sermons and talks. I ask for cooperation for meetings and strategy sessions. I ask for Lydia to find the courses she needs and to do well and to make friends in the process. I ask for repair and maintenance help in their home. Keep them healthy, mind and body, and keep them safe. Help the mission trip to Peru for the New Yorkers to be enlightening and life changing to Your glory. In Christ we pray. Amen.
Prayer Mail
Dear Partners in Prayer,
Peace be with you.
This is our weekly public prayer mail.
Happy 4th of July weekend, next weekend, and especially to my brother on his birthday!
Thanksgivings:
1) For the amount of work accomplished in the past week. Seminary classwork development is coming along on the classes we are planning to teach.
2) For the sermon I preached at the Cathedral on Sunday. It received a very good reception. Food for thought. May God use it to his glory.
3) For short-term mission trip plans coming along (with the people from the Diocese of Albany, and this week, now plans for the Diocese of Worcester trip in the second week in August). Julie, especially, put in a lot of work on the Diocese of Albany trip this week.
4) For the steps being taken for the next phases of Lydia´s education. She is planning to attend two courses at a nearby Christian school that would meet her needs and schedule, as part of preparation for classroom settings when she goes to college.
5) For the opportunities before us to transform lives by what we do.
6) For our friends and family and other supporters. We appreciate you all.
Prayers:
1) For the parishes in which we work, that they would grow in the power of the Holy Spirit to the glory of God.
2) For fruitfulness and discernment, for the people, relationships, ministries, finances, resources, and priorities associated with the Diocese of Peru, Saints Augustine seminary, and the Missionaries in Peru (including us).
3) For the Albany/Peru short term mission trip plans for July 19 to 30.
4) Continued prayers for our ministry at the Cathedral in Lima to July 15, for course preparations (effectively planning four courses: New Testament 1 and 2, and Church History 1 and 2), for Commission on Ministry plans, and for Lydia's educational plans.
5) For matters that need repairing or routine maintenance at our apartment, and a way forward on getting all that taken care of.
6) We could always use more books for our classes (we have a list of books that we would like to assign for reading, but we do not have sufficient copies). We are thinking about writing our own books, and so your prayers would be appreciated as to the way forward for that.
7) The seminary is in the midst of plans to serve multiple sites around Peru, and we are evaluating next steps. Our question: what is the best way forward, considering the resources and internet infrastructure here? And how to do we do that?
8) For the Diocese of Worcester (England) trip coming down in August, and the seminary´s part in that (meaning Julie and my part).
9) For the CEMO Commission on Ministry plans. Julie needs to pull together a string of interviews, but the divergent availability of the commissioners is a bit of a challenge at the moment.
Thank you for praying for us. Your praying really makes a difference, and I pray for you every day.
God bless you.
In Christ,
Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia
Missionaries of the Diocese of Albany, serving in Lima, Peru.
Peace be with you.
This is our weekly public prayer mail.
Happy 4th of July weekend, next weekend, and especially to my brother on his birthday!
Thanksgivings:
1) For the amount of work accomplished in the past week. Seminary classwork development is coming along on the classes we are planning to teach.
2) For the sermon I preached at the Cathedral on Sunday. It received a very good reception. Food for thought. May God use it to his glory.
3) For short-term mission trip plans coming along (with the people from the Diocese of Albany, and this week, now plans for the Diocese of Worcester trip in the second week in August). Julie, especially, put in a lot of work on the Diocese of Albany trip this week.
4) For the steps being taken for the next phases of Lydia´s education. She is planning to attend two courses at a nearby Christian school that would meet her needs and schedule, as part of preparation for classroom settings when she goes to college.
5) For the opportunities before us to transform lives by what we do.
6) For our friends and family and other supporters. We appreciate you all.
Prayers:
1) For the parishes in which we work, that they would grow in the power of the Holy Spirit to the glory of God.
2) For fruitfulness and discernment, for the people, relationships, ministries, finances, resources, and priorities associated with the Diocese of Peru, Saints Augustine seminary, and the Missionaries in Peru (including us).
3) For the Albany/Peru short term mission trip plans for July 19 to 30.
4) Continued prayers for our ministry at the Cathedral in Lima to July 15, for course preparations (effectively planning four courses: New Testament 1 and 2, and Church History 1 and 2), for Commission on Ministry plans, and for Lydia's educational plans.
5) For matters that need repairing or routine maintenance at our apartment, and a way forward on getting all that taken care of.
6) We could always use more books for our classes (we have a list of books that we would like to assign for reading, but we do not have sufficient copies). We are thinking about writing our own books, and so your prayers would be appreciated as to the way forward for that.
7) The seminary is in the midst of plans to serve multiple sites around Peru, and we are evaluating next steps. Our question: what is the best way forward, considering the resources and internet infrastructure here? And how to do we do that?
8) For the Diocese of Worcester (England) trip coming down in August, and the seminary´s part in that (meaning Julie and my part).
9) For the CEMO Commission on Ministry plans. Julie needs to pull together a string of interviews, but the divergent availability of the commissioners is a bit of a challenge at the moment.
Thank you for praying for us. Your praying really makes a difference, and I pray for you every day.
God bless you.
In Christ,
Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia
Missionaries of the Diocese of Albany, serving in Lima, Peru.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Scripture Prayer
Isaiah 40:31
They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles. They will run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Lord, the Mudges wait upon you for your direction for their ministry in Peru. Let Father Shaw and Mother Julie and Lydia perfectly hear You as you guide them into the activities you would have them do. May they feel as if they are soaring with the eagles as they do your will. Give them a full portion of Your Holy Spirit so that they will run and not be weary and walk but not faint. Let their ministries bring streams of living water to the souls of all whom they teach, to whom they minister and for whom they offer up healing prayer. Send them special blessings as they start their full second year in Lima. Amen.
They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles. They will run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.
Lord, the Mudges wait upon you for your direction for their ministry in Peru. Let Father Shaw and Mother Julie and Lydia perfectly hear You as you guide them into the activities you would have them do. May they feel as if they are soaring with the eagles as they do your will. Give them a full portion of Your Holy Spirit so that they will run and not be weary and walk but not faint. Let their ministries bring streams of living water to the souls of all whom they teach, to whom they minister and for whom they offer up healing prayer. Send them special blessings as they start their full second year in Lima. Amen.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Prayer Mail
Dear Partners in Prayer,
Peace be with you.
This is our weekly public prayer mail.
Here we are at the shortest days of the year....south of the equator. Winter has arrived.
Thanksgivings:
1) For arriving safely in Lima this past week, and for the start we have made on the tasks ahead.
2) For my progress in Spanish. I kept it up a bit while I was in the US, and I seem to have made progress. I attribute the progress in part to specific prayers that people prayed for me before we returned to Peru. Thank you.
3) For the church services today. Julie and Lydia attended La Ascension in the Surco District of Lima, in part to sort out some details about the upcoming missions trip, and I celebrated and preached at the Cathedral in the Miraflores District of Lima. My Father's Day sermon was well received.
4) For the reception that we have had in Peru since we have arrived back.
5) For the opportunities before us to transform lives by what we do.
Prayers:
1) For our priorities, as we sort out what to do next, while reintegrating back to Lima.
2) For fruitfulness and discernment, for the people, relationships, ministries, finances, resources, and priorities associated with the Diocese of Peru, Saints Augustine seminary, and the Missionaries in Peru (including us).
3) For the Albany/Peru short term mission trip plans for July 19 to 30.
4) For ministry at the Cathedral in Lima to July 15, course preparations (effectively planning four courses: New Testament 1 and 2, and Church History 1 and 2), Commission on Ministry plans, and Lydia's educational plans.
Thank you for praying for us. Your praying really makes a difference, and I pray for you every day.
God bless you.
In Christ,
Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia
Missionaries of the Diocese of Albany, serving in Lima, Peru.
Peace be with you.
This is our weekly public prayer mail.
Here we are at the shortest days of the year....south of the equator. Winter has arrived.
Thanksgivings:
1) For arriving safely in Lima this past week, and for the start we have made on the tasks ahead.
2) For my progress in Spanish. I kept it up a bit while I was in the US, and I seem to have made progress. I attribute the progress in part to specific prayers that people prayed for me before we returned to Peru. Thank you.
3) For the church services today. Julie and Lydia attended La Ascension in the Surco District of Lima, in part to sort out some details about the upcoming missions trip, and I celebrated and preached at the Cathedral in the Miraflores District of Lima. My Father's Day sermon was well received.
4) For the reception that we have had in Peru since we have arrived back.
5) For the opportunities before us to transform lives by what we do.
Prayers:
1) For our priorities, as we sort out what to do next, while reintegrating back to Lima.
2) For fruitfulness and discernment, for the people, relationships, ministries, finances, resources, and priorities associated with the Diocese of Peru, Saints Augustine seminary, and the Missionaries in Peru (including us).
3) For the Albany/Peru short term mission trip plans for July 19 to 30.
4) For ministry at the Cathedral in Lima to July 15, course preparations (effectively planning four courses: New Testament 1 and 2, and Church History 1 and 2), Commission on Ministry plans, and Lydia's educational plans.
Thank you for praying for us. Your praying really makes a difference, and I pray for you every day.
God bless you.
In Christ,
Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia
Missionaries of the Diocese of Albany, serving in Lima, Peru.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Scripture Prayer
Psalm 90: 16-17
Let us your servants, see what you can do.
Let our children see your glorious power.
Let the kindness of the Lord our God be with us.
Make us successful in everything we do.
Yes, make us successful in everything we do.
Lord, God, we ask that you continue to bless Father Shaw and Mother Julie and Lydia Mudge as they continue their ministry in Peru. Give them your perfect discernment so that they do only what you want them to do, and success will be guaranteed. Let the Mudges see what can be done in Peru as they help You to transform this country just as streams of water bring a desert to life. Fill the Mudges to overflowing with your Holy Spirit and let the Peruvians see your glorious power. Cover them with your kindness and your love.
We thank You, Lord, for the time that the Mudges spent in the U.S. Thank You for keeping them safe in their travels. Thank You especially for the ordination of Hannah to the diaconate. Bless Hannah Mudge and her friend, Christina Vance, as they discern your will in the planting of a church in Troy, NY. Thank You for the many blessings of the Diocesan Convention and the mission components of that wonderful weekend. Amen.
Let us your servants, see what you can do.
Let our children see your glorious power.
Let the kindness of the Lord our God be with us.
Make us successful in everything we do.
Yes, make us successful in everything we do.
Lord, God, we ask that you continue to bless Father Shaw and Mother Julie and Lydia Mudge as they continue their ministry in Peru. Give them your perfect discernment so that they do only what you want them to do, and success will be guaranteed. Let the Mudges see what can be done in Peru as they help You to transform this country just as streams of water bring a desert to life. Fill the Mudges to overflowing with your Holy Spirit and let the Peruvians see your glorious power. Cover them with your kindness and your love.
We thank You, Lord, for the time that the Mudges spent in the U.S. Thank You for keeping them safe in their travels. Thank You especially for the ordination of Hannah to the diaconate. Bless Hannah Mudge and her friend, Christina Vance, as they discern your will in the planting of a church in Troy, NY. Thank You for the many blessings of the Diocesan Convention and the mission components of that wonderful weekend. Amen.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Safe Arrival Back in Peru
Dear Friends and Family,
Peace be with you.
We are safely in Peru with all our luggage intact, 5 minutes early. The flight was in very good weather, and the temperature in Lima is exactly the same temperature as in Wynantskill, NY, at this very hour. There was a slight mist in the air at the airport.
I walked out of the airport terminal doors and felt right at home. Lydia feels the same way. Julie is sleeping, and I have not had a chance to ask her, yet.
The need at the moment is to sleep.
Thank you for your prayers and for the fasting, as had.
God bless you.
In Christ,
Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia.
Peace be with you.
We are safely in Peru with all our luggage intact, 5 minutes early. The flight was in very good weather, and the temperature in Lima is exactly the same temperature as in Wynantskill, NY, at this very hour. There was a slight mist in the air at the airport.
I walked out of the airport terminal doors and felt right at home. Lydia feels the same way. Julie is sleeping, and I have not had a chance to ask her, yet.
The need at the moment is to sleep.
Thank you for your prayers and for the fasting, as had.
God bless you.
In Christ,
Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia.
Prayer Mail
Dear Partners in Prayer,
Peace be with you.
This is our weekly public prayer mail.
Thanksgivings:
1) For Bp. Bill and the generosity of the Diocese of Albany towards our mission work by giving us part of the offering from Saturday's holy eucharist at Diocesan Convention.
2) Thank you to all our intercessors, and this week, particularly our intercessors in Texas, courtesy of Deacon Greg Bailey.
3) For our prayer team/support team, and the wonderful pot-trust dinner meeting we had this evening in our apartment.
4) For the great time and great reception that we have had in the Diocese of Albany, in general, over the past few weeks.
5) For the opportunities before us over the next few weeks to transform lives, and the opportunities to look to God for guidance as he transforms the country of Peru, just as streams of water would bring a desert to life.
Prayers:
1) For safe and timely travel Tuesday and Wednesday this week, as we head to Lima.
2) For fruitfulness and discernment, for the people, relationships, ministries, finances, resources, and priorities associated with the Diocese of Peru, Saints Augustine seminary, and the Missionaries in Peru (including us).
3) For the Albany short term mission trip plans July 19 to 30. There are some deadlines and administrative matters looming when we get back.
4) For our ministry at the Cathedral in Lima when we return, from June 16 to July 15; and for course preparation, and program development during the next few months.
Thank you for praying for us. We plan to send out a note after we have arrived at home in Lima.
Your praying really makes a difference, and I pray for you every day.
God bless you.
In Christ,
Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia
Serving in Lima, Peru.
Peace be with you.
This is our weekly public prayer mail.
Thanksgivings:
1) For Bp. Bill and the generosity of the Diocese of Albany towards our mission work by giving us part of the offering from Saturday's holy eucharist at Diocesan Convention.
2) Thank you to all our intercessors, and this week, particularly our intercessors in Texas, courtesy of Deacon Greg Bailey.
3) For our prayer team/support team, and the wonderful pot-trust dinner meeting we had this evening in our apartment.
4) For the great time and great reception that we have had in the Diocese of Albany, in general, over the past few weeks.
5) For the opportunities before us over the next few weeks to transform lives, and the opportunities to look to God for guidance as he transforms the country of Peru, just as streams of water would bring a desert to life.
Prayers:
1) For safe and timely travel Tuesday and Wednesday this week, as we head to Lima.
2) For fruitfulness and discernment, for the people, relationships, ministries, finances, resources, and priorities associated with the Diocese of Peru, Saints Augustine seminary, and the Missionaries in Peru (including us).
3) For the Albany short term mission trip plans July 19 to 30. There are some deadlines and administrative matters looming when we get back.
4) For our ministry at the Cathedral in Lima when we return, from June 16 to July 15; and for course preparation, and program development during the next few months.
Thank you for praying for us. We plan to send out a note after we have arrived at home in Lima.
Your praying really makes a difference, and I pray for you every day.
God bless you.
In Christ,
Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia
Serving in Lima, Peru.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Scripture Prayer
Galatians 5: 22-23a
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
Lord, we thank You for your Holy Spirit filled to overflowing in the persons of Father Shaw and Mother Julie and Lydia Mudge. We praise you for the ways in which they manifest the fruit of Your Spirit:
the love that they have for each other and for those to whom they minister
the joy of the Lord that is shown as they worship You
the peace that they have as they know that they are doing Your will
the patience as they wait to discern Your bidding
the kindness and goodness that is evident in their dealings with Your people
their faithfulness to Your calling to them
the gentleness of their spirits which so remind us of Your Son, Jesus
the self-control in everything that they do
We offer thanks for the events of this past week, especially the ordination of their daughter, Hannah, to the diaconate and the gathering of family and friends that precipitated. We ask for special blessings at the Diocesan Convention, a gathering of their church family and friends.
Father God, we ask that you continue to bless the Mudges. Be with them as they attend the Diocesan Convention, as they host members of their team on the eve of their journey back to Peru, and we ask for travel mercies. Thank You for everything that You do through this spirit-filled family. Amen.
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.
Lord, we thank You for your Holy Spirit filled to overflowing in the persons of Father Shaw and Mother Julie and Lydia Mudge. We praise you for the ways in which they manifest the fruit of Your Spirit:
the love that they have for each other and for those to whom they minister
the joy of the Lord that is shown as they worship You
the peace that they have as they know that they are doing Your will
the patience as they wait to discern Your bidding
the kindness and goodness that is evident in their dealings with Your people
their faithfulness to Your calling to them
the gentleness of their spirits which so remind us of Your Son, Jesus
the self-control in everything that they do
We offer thanks for the events of this past week, especially the ordination of their daughter, Hannah, to the diaconate and the gathering of family and friends that precipitated. We ask for special blessings at the Diocesan Convention, a gathering of their church family and friends.
Father God, we ask that you continue to bless the Mudges. Be with them as they attend the Diocesan Convention, as they host members of their team on the eve of their journey back to Peru, and we ask for travel mercies. Thank You for everything that You do through this spirit-filled family. Amen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions, that people have asked us in the past week:
1) How long have we been away from ministry in the Diocese of Albany? We have been away for over 1 year.
2) When are we returning to Peru? We are returning on the Tuesday after Diocesan Convention, June 15. We came up for Hannah's graduation and ordination and decided to stay through Diocesan Convention. Technically, we are on vacation. With the Bishop of Peru's permission, we hope to be at Hannah's ordination to the priesthood (could be in about 6 months) for a few days visit, and then, return to Peru again until perhaps 2012.
3) How long are we planning to be in Peru, overall? In April 2009, we planned to be in Peru for up to 10 years. That was a year ago. So, now, we are planning to be in Peru for up to 9 years more. SAMS has missionary terms of about 3 years each.
4) What do we do in Peru?
Several things. In short, we are helping to raise up local leaders in Peru. Primarily, we are faculty at Saints Augustine Anglican seminary in Lima. Julie also is coordinator of the Diocesan Ordination process, and we both help out in various other ways, such as helping with English or Spanish Sunday services.
5) Are you still members of the Diocese of Albany?
Yes. Foremost, we are canonical members of the Diocese of Albany, and so our primary allegiance is to Bishop Bill Love.
At the same time, we are employed as missionaries by SAMS (now: Society of Anglican Missionaries and Senders). SAMS is our employer, though our compensation at SAMS is drawn from contributions from people like you.
Our SAMS placement is in the Diocese of Peru, which has been made possible by of a letter of invitation by Bp. Godfrey of Peru.
In Peru, in essence, we are guests of Bp. Godfrey, and he has asked us to serve in various capacities, as needs arise and circumstances warrant.
6) Is the Diocese of Peru growing?
The Diocese of Peru is emerging from a growth and consolidation phase, and now, the Diocese of Peru is in a good position to advance, with the right kind of leadership (we are there to help develop that leadership). The Diocese of Peru is meeting the need of people who are energized by a combination of Anglo-Catholicism, Evangelicalism, and Charismatic strands woven together in a Peruvian form. This is a unique combination in Peru.
7) What is Saints Augustine seminary like?
It has been said in the past two months, that Saints Augustine is the best and healthiest Anglican seminary in South America, at the moment, though at times, it seems to like we are building the ship while sailing it. But based on what I have heard about the condition of Episcopal seminaries US in that past two weeks (not including Trinity and Nashotah house which are in good condition), I would not be surprised if over the long-haul, Saints Augustine has more staying power than some of those seminaries in the US if it keeps developing the way it is currently developing.
I am impressed by the students and faculty, and their wisdom and their willingness to be guided by the Holy Spirit. The students are from a diverse background. While they may not all "get" Anglicanism yet, I have seen the Holy Spirit do great things through some of these students, already. Not every student has the goal of being ordained (some plan to be lay leaders), but they all have the potential to do great things for our Lord, no matter what they end up doing. All this is on a shoe string budget, made possible in part through the work of SAMS missionaries.
8) How is your Spanish?
Learning Spanish is a life-long endeavor. We are on target for what we need to do, now. We are about half-way where we would like to be, and that too, is a reasonable goal. We are learning the culture at the same time as we are learning Spanish, and learning the culture is a life-long goal, as well.
9) What is it like being a missionary in Peru?
Working as a missionary (who is part of a diocesan team) is a lot like working with any diocesan committee, seminary faculty, or a Vestry, anywhere. Some times, people hold to their guns with diverse opinions, and little movement seems possible, until God does something over the long-haul. At other times, the Holy Spirit moves quickly and swiftly, and the result is awesome in a short period of time. As a missionary, sometimes we seem to be like a consultant to a process on the outside looking in, and at other times, it seems like we are the process on the inside. It is an awesome combination, and it works.
10) What do we think of Fr. Mike Chapman (Bishop Sufragan-elect in Peru)?
We first met him in April 2008 when we were in Lima for a week to look at Peru as a potential place for us as missionaries. He was awesome and apostolic, then. I have not changed my mind since. And we like Linda, his beloved, too.
11) Do we like being in Peru?
Absolutely.
12) Do we like being in the Diocese of Albany?
Absolutely.
13) Do you have any difficulty adjusting to Peru?
Speaking just for myself: I love Peru. I like the people. The country and the people have their issues, but Peru is a place that I think that Jesus has been calling me to, all my life.
Our missionary training suggested that we would all go through a dramatic "chaos" phase as a normal part of settling in. As some of you may recall, I was trying to document the threshold in earlier prayer mails, but it has not come to me with an intensity that I was expecting. In fact, Lydia has told me that I have not had a chaos phase yet.
I would say that we have adjusted reasonably well as a family, though we all go through an adjustment process, especially when we go back and forth between cultures, simply because things are different in each culture. We like both the Diocese of Albany and Peru, and we do not like to leave either culture.
14) What is Lima, Peru like?
The city of Lima has almost 10 million people in it. It had 5 million people in it until the late 1980s or so, until terrorism caused people to flee to Lima from the countryside. At this time, almost overnight, it seemed to grow dramatically from 5 million up to about 9.5 million people.
Lima is a meeting of first and third world cultures in the same city.
Lima is on the coast of Peru at sea level, and is in a desert, one of the driest places on earth, though overcast much of the year. In winter it is like being on the coast of Maine in the fog without the cold and the wet. Because of my hair, I do not mind the overcast because the direct sun can be very hot, since we are closer to the equator than Albany. The most moisture that we seem to get is a light drizzle or a heavy mist. We had a 30 year rain fall last year (the most "rain" in 30 years), and during those three days, at the time when it was the most damp, I almost thought I was going to have to put on a jacket, in order to stay dry, but in the end, I did not have to put one on.
Although humid, Lima seems less humid than in some places that I know in the US. Temperatures in the winter can drop to the 50s F, and soar to the 90s in the summer.
I hope this is helpful.
Fr. Shaw
1) How long have we been away from ministry in the Diocese of Albany? We have been away for over 1 year.
2) When are we returning to Peru? We are returning on the Tuesday after Diocesan Convention, June 15. We came up for Hannah's graduation and ordination and decided to stay through Diocesan Convention. Technically, we are on vacation. With the Bishop of Peru's permission, we hope to be at Hannah's ordination to the priesthood (could be in about 6 months) for a few days visit, and then, return to Peru again until perhaps 2012.
3) How long are we planning to be in Peru, overall? In April 2009, we planned to be in Peru for up to 10 years. That was a year ago. So, now, we are planning to be in Peru for up to 9 years more. SAMS has missionary terms of about 3 years each.
4) What do we do in Peru?
Several things. In short, we are helping to raise up local leaders in Peru. Primarily, we are faculty at Saints Augustine Anglican seminary in Lima. Julie also is coordinator of the Diocesan Ordination process, and we both help out in various other ways, such as helping with English or Spanish Sunday services.
5) Are you still members of the Diocese of Albany?
Yes. Foremost, we are canonical members of the Diocese of Albany, and so our primary allegiance is to Bishop Bill Love.
At the same time, we are employed as missionaries by SAMS (now: Society of Anglican Missionaries and Senders). SAMS is our employer, though our compensation at SAMS is drawn from contributions from people like you.
Our SAMS placement is in the Diocese of Peru, which has been made possible by of a letter of invitation by Bp. Godfrey of Peru.
In Peru, in essence, we are guests of Bp. Godfrey, and he has asked us to serve in various capacities, as needs arise and circumstances warrant.
6) Is the Diocese of Peru growing?
The Diocese of Peru is emerging from a growth and consolidation phase, and now, the Diocese of Peru is in a good position to advance, with the right kind of leadership (we are there to help develop that leadership). The Diocese of Peru is meeting the need of people who are energized by a combination of Anglo-Catholicism, Evangelicalism, and Charismatic strands woven together in a Peruvian form. This is a unique combination in Peru.
7) What is Saints Augustine seminary like?
It has been said in the past two months, that Saints Augustine is the best and healthiest Anglican seminary in South America, at the moment, though at times, it seems to like we are building the ship while sailing it. But based on what I have heard about the condition of Episcopal seminaries US in that past two weeks (not including Trinity and Nashotah house which are in good condition), I would not be surprised if over the long-haul, Saints Augustine has more staying power than some of those seminaries in the US if it keeps developing the way it is currently developing.
I am impressed by the students and faculty, and their wisdom and their willingness to be guided by the Holy Spirit. The students are from a diverse background. While they may not all "get" Anglicanism yet, I have seen the Holy Spirit do great things through some of these students, already. Not every student has the goal of being ordained (some plan to be lay leaders), but they all have the potential to do great things for our Lord, no matter what they end up doing. All this is on a shoe string budget, made possible in part through the work of SAMS missionaries.
8) How is your Spanish?
Learning Spanish is a life-long endeavor. We are on target for what we need to do, now. We are about half-way where we would like to be, and that too, is a reasonable goal. We are learning the culture at the same time as we are learning Spanish, and learning the culture is a life-long goal, as well.
9) What is it like being a missionary in Peru?
Working as a missionary (who is part of a diocesan team) is a lot like working with any diocesan committee, seminary faculty, or a Vestry, anywhere. Some times, people hold to their guns with diverse opinions, and little movement seems possible, until God does something over the long-haul. At other times, the Holy Spirit moves quickly and swiftly, and the result is awesome in a short period of time. As a missionary, sometimes we seem to be like a consultant to a process on the outside looking in, and at other times, it seems like we are the process on the inside. It is an awesome combination, and it works.
10) What do we think of Fr. Mike Chapman (Bishop Sufragan-elect in Peru)?
We first met him in April 2008 when we were in Lima for a week to look at Peru as a potential place for us as missionaries. He was awesome and apostolic, then. I have not changed my mind since. And we like Linda, his beloved, too.
11) Do we like being in Peru?
Absolutely.
12) Do we like being in the Diocese of Albany?
Absolutely.
13) Do you have any difficulty adjusting to Peru?
Speaking just for myself: I love Peru. I like the people. The country and the people have their issues, but Peru is a place that I think that Jesus has been calling me to, all my life.
Our missionary training suggested that we would all go through a dramatic "chaos" phase as a normal part of settling in. As some of you may recall, I was trying to document the threshold in earlier prayer mails, but it has not come to me with an intensity that I was expecting. In fact, Lydia has told me that I have not had a chaos phase yet.
I would say that we have adjusted reasonably well as a family, though we all go through an adjustment process, especially when we go back and forth between cultures, simply because things are different in each culture. We like both the Diocese of Albany and Peru, and we do not like to leave either culture.
14) What is Lima, Peru like?
The city of Lima has almost 10 million people in it. It had 5 million people in it until the late 1980s or so, until terrorism caused people to flee to Lima from the countryside. At this time, almost overnight, it seemed to grow dramatically from 5 million up to about 9.5 million people.
Lima is a meeting of first and third world cultures in the same city.
Lima is on the coast of Peru at sea level, and is in a desert, one of the driest places on earth, though overcast much of the year. In winter it is like being on the coast of Maine in the fog without the cold and the wet. Because of my hair, I do not mind the overcast because the direct sun can be very hot, since we are closer to the equator than Albany. The most moisture that we seem to get is a light drizzle or a heavy mist. We had a 30 year rain fall last year (the most "rain" in 30 years), and during those three days, at the time when it was the most damp, I almost thought I was going to have to put on a jacket, in order to stay dry, but in the end, I did not have to put one on.
Although humid, Lima seems less humid than in some places that I know in the US. Temperatures in the winter can drop to the 50s F, and soar to the 90s in the summer.
I hope this is helpful.
Fr. Shaw
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Prayer Mail
Dear Partners in Prayer,
Peace be with you.
This is our weekly public prayer mail.
At the end of this prayer mail, I have some answers to Frequently Asked Questions, that have been asked of us in the past week. It is optional reading. (Actually you will find it in a separate posting. (JMG))
Thanksgivings:
1) For Hannah´s ordination at All Saints Cathedral on Saturday and for our reception later on Saturday afternoon at Christ the King Spiritual Life Center. Thank you to everyone who attended or helped with either of the occasions.
2) Thank you for everyone who has expressed an interest to us about what we are doing in Peru. I am impressed by the great number of people who read our newsletters and/or weekly prayer mails, and for the people who help us get the word out.
3) Thank you that we have had safe and timely travel during our stay in the US, and that Lydia has logged nearly 10 hours with her driving permit, so far. Lydia is getting better and better at driving, every day.
4) For the good time we have had in the US on our vacation. It is always a struggle to balance vacation and work in a venture like this, and we have had a reasonable success rate. Overall, the break has given us an opportunity to prayerfully keep the main thing, the main thing.
5) For the opportunities of the Holy Spirit to transform people's lives by what we do, and to be able to make a difference.
6) For the praise reports of healings in the US since we have been back. We are honored to have had a part in this ministry.
Prayers:
1) For safe and timely travel this week, for the preparations for Diocesan Convention this coming weekend, for our team meeting on the 14th, and for our return to Peru on the 15th.
2) For Lydia as she ponders her future, where she would like to go to college, driving, etc.
3) For guidance for all of our families, friends, and colleagues, in all the decisions before them.
4) For fruitfulness and discernment, for the people, relationships, ministries, finances, resources, and priorities associated with the Diocese of Peru, Saints Augustine seminary, and the Missionaries in Peru (including us).
5) For the Albany short term mission trip plans July 19 to 30. There are some deadlines and administrative matters looming when we get back.
6)For our ministry at the Cathedral in Lima when we return, from June 16 to July 15; and for course preparation, and program development during the next few months.
Thank you for praying for us. Your praying really makes a difference, and I pray for you every day.
God bless you.
In Christ,
Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia
Serving in Lima, Peru, but for the next week or so in the Diocese of Albany
Peace be with you.
This is our weekly public prayer mail.
At the end of this prayer mail, I have some answers to Frequently Asked Questions, that have been asked of us in the past week. It is optional reading. (Actually you will find it in a separate posting. (JMG))
Thanksgivings:
1) For Hannah´s ordination at All Saints Cathedral on Saturday and for our reception later on Saturday afternoon at Christ the King Spiritual Life Center. Thank you to everyone who attended or helped with either of the occasions.
2) Thank you for everyone who has expressed an interest to us about what we are doing in Peru. I am impressed by the great number of people who read our newsletters and/or weekly prayer mails, and for the people who help us get the word out.
3) Thank you that we have had safe and timely travel during our stay in the US, and that Lydia has logged nearly 10 hours with her driving permit, so far. Lydia is getting better and better at driving, every day.
4) For the good time we have had in the US on our vacation. It is always a struggle to balance vacation and work in a venture like this, and we have had a reasonable success rate. Overall, the break has given us an opportunity to prayerfully keep the main thing, the main thing.
5) For the opportunities of the Holy Spirit to transform people's lives by what we do, and to be able to make a difference.
6) For the praise reports of healings in the US since we have been back. We are honored to have had a part in this ministry.
Prayers:
1) For safe and timely travel this week, for the preparations for Diocesan Convention this coming weekend, for our team meeting on the 14th, and for our return to Peru on the 15th.
2) For Lydia as she ponders her future, where she would like to go to college, driving, etc.
3) For guidance for all of our families, friends, and colleagues, in all the decisions before them.
4) For fruitfulness and discernment, for the people, relationships, ministries, finances, resources, and priorities associated with the Diocese of Peru, Saints Augustine seminary, and the Missionaries in Peru (including us).
5) For the Albany short term mission trip plans July 19 to 30. There are some deadlines and administrative matters looming when we get back.
6)For our ministry at the Cathedral in Lima when we return, from June 16 to July 15; and for course preparation, and program development during the next few months.
Thank you for praying for us. Your praying really makes a difference, and I pray for you every day.
God bless you.
In Christ,
Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia
Serving in Lima, Peru, but for the next week or so in the Diocese of Albany
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
June 2010 Newsletter
You know you are in....
... the Albany, New York, area, when:
• The tap water is drinkable in most places.
• The faucets at churches have both hot and cold running water.
• We do not have to be concerned whether the lettuce and tomato in our food has been washed properly.
• The constellation patterns and the angle of the moon are different in the sky.
• Earthquakes are rare.
• Electricity is 110 volts.
.... the District of Miraflores, Lima, Peru, when:
• Electricity is 220 volts.
• Everybody greets everybody at the beginning and the end of a meeting or a church service.
• At social events, up to 20 minutes late is socially acceptable. Business meetings start on time, generally.
• Movies from the US are generally subtitled in Spanish.
• There are no heavy rains, thunderstorms, tornadoes, or hurricanes.
Prayer Requests/including our plans:
• For safe and timely travel to Peru (returning to Lima June 15).
• For the courses that begin in August, and Julie's Commission on Ministry
interviews.
• For the relationships, priorities, ministries, and finances of God´s people
in Peru (including ours).
• For the Diocese of Albany short-term mission trip in Lima from July 19 to
July 31.
• That we may spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy
Spirit.
Update: Hannah Mudge, our daughter, was ordained a Deacon on June 5 at All Saints Cathedral, Albany. Deacon Hannah and Deacon Christina Vance plan to plant a church in Troy.
We hope to see you at the annual Convention of the Diocese of Albany.
God bless you, and thank you for your continuing support!
– Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia
... the Albany, New York, area, when:
• The tap water is drinkable in most places.
• The faucets at churches have both hot and cold running water.
• We do not have to be concerned whether the lettuce and tomato in our food has been washed properly.
• The constellation patterns and the angle of the moon are different in the sky.
• Earthquakes are rare.
• Electricity is 110 volts.
.... the District of Miraflores, Lima, Peru, when:
• Electricity is 220 volts.
• Everybody greets everybody at the beginning and the end of a meeting or a church service.
• At social events, up to 20 minutes late is socially acceptable. Business meetings start on time, generally.
• Movies from the US are generally subtitled in Spanish.
• There are no heavy rains, thunderstorms, tornadoes, or hurricanes.
Prayer Requests/including our plans:
• For safe and timely travel to Peru (returning to Lima June 15).
• For the courses that begin in August, and Julie's Commission on Ministry
interviews.
• For the relationships, priorities, ministries, and finances of God´s people
in Peru (including ours).
• For the Diocese of Albany short-term mission trip in Lima from July 19 to
July 31.
• That we may spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ in the power of the Holy
Spirit.
Update: Hannah Mudge, our daughter, was ordained a Deacon on June 5 at All Saints Cathedral, Albany. Deacon Hannah and Deacon Christina Vance plan to plant a church in Troy.
We hope to see you at the annual Convention of the Diocese of Albany.
God bless you, and thank you for your continuing support!
– Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia
Friday, June 4, 2010
Mudge Scripture Prayer
Prayer for the Mission of the Church (BCP page 838)
Almighty God, you sent your Son Jesus Christ to reconcile the world to yourself: We praise and bless you for those whom you have sent in the power of the Spirit to preach the Gospel to all nations. We thank you that in all parts of the earth a community of love has been gathered together by their prayers and labors, and that in every place your servants call upon your Name; for the kingdom and the power and the glory are yours for ever. Amen.
Almighty God, we thank You for the work of Fr. Shaw and Mother Julie and Lydia Mudge. We praise and bless You for filling them with Your Holy Spirit so that they have been enabled to do a mighty work for You in Lima, Peru. Be with them now as they vacation in the U.S. Be with them especially as their daughter, Hannah, is ordained to the transitional diaconate. Bless Hannah and her friend Christine and all the others who will be ordained at the Cathedral of All Saints in Albany. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit so that they as well may do a mighty work for You. We also pray for the Diocesan Convention and ask for special blessings on the Mudges as they prepare for their roles in this wonderful yearly convocation of your faithful people in the Diocese of Albany. We ask all of this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Almighty God, you sent your Son Jesus Christ to reconcile the world to yourself: We praise and bless you for those whom you have sent in the power of the Spirit to preach the Gospel to all nations. We thank you that in all parts of the earth a community of love has been gathered together by their prayers and labors, and that in every place your servants call upon your Name; for the kingdom and the power and the glory are yours for ever. Amen.
Almighty God, we thank You for the work of Fr. Shaw and Mother Julie and Lydia Mudge. We praise and bless You for filling them with Your Holy Spirit so that they have been enabled to do a mighty work for You in Lima, Peru. Be with them now as they vacation in the U.S. Be with them especially as their daughter, Hannah, is ordained to the transitional diaconate. Bless Hannah and her friend Christine and all the others who will be ordained at the Cathedral of All Saints in Albany. Fill them with Your Holy Spirit so that they as well may do a mighty work for You. We also pray for the Diocesan Convention and ask for special blessings on the Mudges as they prepare for their roles in this wonderful yearly convocation of your faithful people in the Diocese of Albany. We ask all of this in the name of Jesus. Amen.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Prayer Mail
Dear Partners in Prayer,
Peace be with you.
This is our weekly public prayer mail. We are on vacation, and sometimes during this time, we have access to Internet service. Because of our travels and the intermittent Internet service, the prayer mail was a day or two later this week.
Thanksgivings:
1) For the United States, for our family and friends, for our vacation, and for Lydia's good driving lessons, for our experiences and ministry in Peru.
2) That we now are up to four college visits this vacation for Lydia, and not just the two original ones. As we talk with people, more ideas emerge. Thank you to everyone who has helped us consider our options.
3) That the plans for the Diocesan Short-term Mission trip in Peru in July are making progress.
4) For the opportunities of the Holy Spirit to transform people's lives by what we do, and to be able to make a difference. Thank you for your part in praying for that.
5) That our car was able to get going without too much inconvenience.
6) For all the people who are showing an interest in what we do in Peru, for those who ask us what it is like to live and work in Lima. I like your questions, and thank you to everyone who likes to read our weekly prayer mails and/or our monthly newsletters.
Prayers:
1) For the family of Harold Knight, Julie's maternal uncle, and the brother-in-law of Julie's mom, who died on Thursday, last week. The memorial service was held on Saturday, in Fort Worth, Texas. We were visiting with Julie's folks in Connecticut over the weekend. Because of health and logistical reasons, Julie's parents were unable to attend the service. Please pray for Julie's family at this time, as well.
2) For safe and timely travel this week, in our goings back and forth, with Lydia learning to drive.
3) for Hannah Mudge and Christina Vance as they prepare for the ordination on June 5 and for their getting started with Church planting in Troy. For our family, as we begin to absorb the great number of people coming for this event, and please pray for people who are not able to attend but who would have liked to have attended.
4) That our daughter Ruth, in the Chicago area, would find fulfilling employment, and that her personal and work related goals would be able to be accomplished.
5) That we would continue to enjoy our vacation.
6) For Lydia's SAT preparations (second time), for a suitable college choice, and for continued good driving experiences.
7) For my brother and his vision for the farm he just bought in Connecticut.
8) For Julie's and my parents' plans for the future.
9) For suitable employment for Julie's sister and brother-in-law.
10) For the fruitfulness, plans and continuation of our ministry, and for our preparations for Diocesan Convention.
11) For the people, relationships, ministries, finances, resources, and priorities associated with the Diocese of Peru, Saints Augustine seminary, and the Missionaries in Peru (including us). This is an on-going prayer, and it is a crucial one.
12) For the Albany short term mission trip plans July 19 to 30. There are some deadlines and administrative matters looming when we get back.
13) For our landlady, her husband, and the others in our apartment building. Lease signing is still pending. Several people have asked us about this.
14) For our ministry at the Cathedral in Lima when we return, from June 16 to July 15
One additional note:
yesterday, we visited where we had lived in Connecticut before venturing forth to the Diocese of Albany. Things were different at the house. Then, I drove to where our family business had been located in upstate Connecticut, and the building was no more. The building has been replaced by a hotel and by a Chilis restaurant. I am reminded, yet again, that life is transitory, and I am reminded to keep my eye fixed on the permanence of eternal verities.
Thank you for praying for us. Your praying really makes a difference, and I pray for you every day.
God bless you.
In Christ,
Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia
Out and about in the Diocese of Albany, and returning to Lima, Peru, on June 15.
Peace be with you.
This is our weekly public prayer mail. We are on vacation, and sometimes during this time, we have access to Internet service. Because of our travels and the intermittent Internet service, the prayer mail was a day or two later this week.
Thanksgivings:
1) For the United States, for our family and friends, for our vacation, and for Lydia's good driving lessons, for our experiences and ministry in Peru.
2) That we now are up to four college visits this vacation for Lydia, and not just the two original ones. As we talk with people, more ideas emerge. Thank you to everyone who has helped us consider our options.
3) That the plans for the Diocesan Short-term Mission trip in Peru in July are making progress.
4) For the opportunities of the Holy Spirit to transform people's lives by what we do, and to be able to make a difference. Thank you for your part in praying for that.
5) That our car was able to get going without too much inconvenience.
6) For all the people who are showing an interest in what we do in Peru, for those who ask us what it is like to live and work in Lima. I like your questions, and thank you to everyone who likes to read our weekly prayer mails and/or our monthly newsletters.
Prayers:
1) For the family of Harold Knight, Julie's maternal uncle, and the brother-in-law of Julie's mom, who died on Thursday, last week. The memorial service was held on Saturday, in Fort Worth, Texas. We were visiting with Julie's folks in Connecticut over the weekend. Because of health and logistical reasons, Julie's parents were unable to attend the service. Please pray for Julie's family at this time, as well.
2) For safe and timely travel this week, in our goings back and forth, with Lydia learning to drive.
3) for Hannah Mudge and Christina Vance as they prepare for the ordination on June 5 and for their getting started with Church planting in Troy. For our family, as we begin to absorb the great number of people coming for this event, and please pray for people who are not able to attend but who would have liked to have attended.
4) That our daughter Ruth, in the Chicago area, would find fulfilling employment, and that her personal and work related goals would be able to be accomplished.
5) That we would continue to enjoy our vacation.
6) For Lydia's SAT preparations (second time), for a suitable college choice, and for continued good driving experiences.
7) For my brother and his vision for the farm he just bought in Connecticut.
8) For Julie's and my parents' plans for the future.
9) For suitable employment for Julie's sister and brother-in-law.
10) For the fruitfulness, plans and continuation of our ministry, and for our preparations for Diocesan Convention.
11) For the people, relationships, ministries, finances, resources, and priorities associated with the Diocese of Peru, Saints Augustine seminary, and the Missionaries in Peru (including us). This is an on-going prayer, and it is a crucial one.
12) For the Albany short term mission trip plans July 19 to 30. There are some deadlines and administrative matters looming when we get back.
13) For our landlady, her husband, and the others in our apartment building. Lease signing is still pending. Several people have asked us about this.
14) For our ministry at the Cathedral in Lima when we return, from June 16 to July 15
One additional note:
yesterday, we visited where we had lived in Connecticut before venturing forth to the Diocese of Albany. Things were different at the house. Then, I drove to where our family business had been located in upstate Connecticut, and the building was no more. The building has been replaced by a hotel and by a Chilis restaurant. I am reminded, yet again, that life is transitory, and I am reminded to keep my eye fixed on the permanence of eternal verities.
Thank you for praying for us. Your praying really makes a difference, and I pray for you every day.
God bless you.
In Christ,
Shaw, and on behalf of Julie and Lydia
Out and about in the Diocese of Albany, and returning to Lima, Peru, on June 15.
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