The strong currents from Rivers of Grace carried across land and sea
Current
Open Doors for The New Year 2023
Greetings, Dear Friends,
Once again we are blessed to report the faithfulness of our Lord and Savior. After three years of varying levels of pandemic restrictions, God opened the door for us to head overseas. For the past two months, we’ve traversed the globe! After 15 beds and 12 airplane rides we were still praising the Lord.
Middle East
We had the opportunity to explore the United Arab Emirates, specifically Dubai and Abu Dhabi. We visited our two daughters, Hope and Faith. Hope and her husband, Nate, work as teachers in an International School, while Faith is a nurse in a nearby city. Besides catching up on their lives, we sampled cuisines from around the world and explored local tourist sites. Diane even rode a camel!
Luzon Island, Philippines
From there, we hopped on a budget airline and dashed over to the Philippines. During our month-long stay, we visited our daughter Joy and her family in Manila and ministered up and down Luzon and Mindanao provinces. Our goal was to follow the spirit where He was leading and where the anointing was flowing. God opened the door to reconnect and minister in five local churches and Zion Bible School.
Mindanao Island, Philippines
Many of you may recall our connections in the Southern Philippines, specifically Zamboanga and Zamboanga Del Norte, Mindanao. We felt thankful returning to the churches that we started back in the ‘80s. Today, God is continuing to move among his people through prayer, preaching the Word and outreach with new church plants. We also stopped by Hope for Kids, an orphanage many of you help us support.
There are so many highlights from this trip, we want to take a moment to tell you a few stories. We were reunited with Nelfa, a woman my brother sponsored 30 years ago for surgery in the U.S. At the age of 15 the left side of her face had been infected, revealing her teeth and gums. After a year and many surgeries she returned to the Philippines. Now she is healed and working as a CNA in the local hospital.
Bucolad Island, Philippines
On the Island of Negros, Bacolod City we connected with two mission groups. Pastors Chuck and Elsie with Negros New Life In Christ Ministry and Christian Academy .
and John and Cecille Bailey founders of Harbingers Ministry and Furnace Ministries. Both groups are church planters with a prayer emphasis. The Furnace Ministry is building an orphanage. The Kingdom of GOD is growing.
After returning to Taytay, Rizal Dennis had an emergency trip to Cagayan De Oro, Mindanao for a memorial service for the leader of the King Jesus Fellowship founded by Dennis and Pastor Balili.
More to Come
These are just a few of the stops on the journey. We will share more on each of these stories in the next few months.
Once again, we want to thank you all for the prayer and financial support you’ve given during the last few years. Your faithfulness to this ministry made it possible for us to travel again. We have been blessed by your prayers and support. We are praying for you and your journey.
Dennis and Diane Teague
Dennis 360-70-8212, Diane 360-701-5026 email: denteague@gmail.com and dianedancing@gmail.com
Send tax deductible donations through the website or checks to Mission Concepts at PO Box 44,
Shelton, WA 98584 Give us a call for other options.
Traveling in the USA
Dear Friends,
Thank you for all the encouragement we have received as we venture out in faith once again. As our previous letter states we have turned our church, Rivers of Grace, over to capable leaders to continue ministering in the Olympia area.
We are traveling in the USA to meet up with friends, relatives and supporters. We began in Washington going to Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, South Dakota, Utah, etc, working our way to California and Mexico.
We have had the opportunity to pray and encourage people we have met along the way. Highlights so far are meeting with friends who were with us in Rivers of Grace Church, but have moved to other states. It has been a pleasure to share in their new life and pray with them. We met with 2 young men, who were in our recovery program, Gethsemane. One has gone on to Bible College and the other has been restored to his family and found employment. They are beautiful example of what God can do when we put our trust in Him. We have shared in home meetings, prayed, prophesied and ready to do whatever the Lord leads. Dennis, also, did a video teaching for a church in Malaysia.
Every day we all meet people who need Jesus, hope and encouragement. There are many nice people, but if you can’t find one you can be that nice person. Freely you have received freely give. People need to know that they are seen, accepted and loved. Share God’s love and acceptance. Who knows whose hearts have been prepared for salvation? Share Jesus.
Thank you for your prayers and support as we travel these next few months. We still have plans for overseas as God directs and opens doors.
Dennis and Diane
Dennis 360-70-8212, Diane 360-701-5026 email: denteague@gmail.com and dianedancing@gmail.com
Send tax deductible donations through the website or checks to Mission Concepts at PO Box 44,
Shelton, WA 98584 Give us a call for other options.
New Adventures for the Teagues
Dear Friends,
We hope this letter finds you thriving in these interesting times. We would like to share with you a few aspects of our journey and glorify God for His faithfulness to guide us all these years. Then we have some exciting news about our future plans.
As many of you know, we have spent the last 22 years pastoring in the Northwest. In July of 1999 we returned from 16 years of overseas mission work to place our daughter, Hope, in college. We anticipated a quick return abroad to the mission field by January 2000. However, Diane’s mother had a difficult surgery and needed home care. We decided to close our apartment Hong Kong and stay home a little longer..
“Man makes plans, but the Lord directs his steps.” When the season at home became longer than we expected, we were stirred to start a church in Olympia. With no money, no building and no people, we stepped out in faith and launched Rivers of Grace Church with a 4th of July picnic at Millersylvania State Park. The following Sunday we gathered to worship at Madison Elementary School on Legion Way and continued to do so for 12 1/2 years!
In October of 2013, we moved our congregation to a new location. The Free Methodist Church on the east side offered their space to us! We were delighted to move Children’s Church from a hallway at the school to a room and use a fully-equipped kitchen with fellowship hall! Needless to say we settled into ‘space’ that allowed us to host weekly services, annual garage sales, and to support Gethsemane ministries discipleship and recovery program.
Because of pandemic restrictions, the Methodist Church closed their facility and we no longer had a venue to gather. A small building at 620 SE Legion Way became available. Some of you may remember this as the location of Glory House.
For one year, we saw God bring in those who had no place to worship, including folks from the street. Just as we were planning to return to a normal routine in the spring of 2021, a fire destroyed part of the building. We temporarily held services at Camp Grace in Union, WA.
During the eight months it took for the insurance company to repair the building, we negotiated the purchase of another building. After some time all of our offers were declined.
In December, 2021 I was asking the Lord if we should resume meeting at 620 now that it was repaired. He clearly said, “Set it up and give it away.” In January He indicated to give it away in six months. Therefore we resumed worship at the building on Legion Way in February, 2022.
We awaited God’s next direction knowing He would bring the right person at the right time to fulfill the word He had spoken to us. Pastor Brian Hellenthal felt the Lord was directing him to this aspect of ministry. Some of you may recall our close affiliation with Pastor Brian and our support of Gethsemane for many years.
On July 31, 2022 we “gave it away” transitioning Rivers of Grace Sunday worship from our responsibility to Pastor Brian and his team.
What does this mean for Diane and I? We are being re-commissioned! We anticipate spreading some fire to the churches and friends who have supported our mission work all these years. Our passion for international missions has never wavered. Every year until the pandemic we made at least three trips overseas. The students we support and these missions were funded through Mission Concepts partners, not our local church missions. We hope to soon visit the nations again to bring encouragement and the Word of God.
Our calling is to spread the Holy Spirit’s refreshing through preaching the good news, Bible teaching, retreats and conferences, writing materials, and sponsoring underprivileged children’s education.
We appreciate all the love, prayers, and support you have shown over the years. We will continue to be a part of the Rivers of Grace community and would love to see you. We also serve the men and women at Gethsemane ministries who are breaking free from their drug and alcohol addiction through the power of Christ.
If you’d like to support us or if you don’t have a missions giving plan at your church, please consider partnering with us through “Mission Concepts”, our mission entity since 1983. We are now available to meet with you or to speak at your church. Call us at (360) 432-0658 or my cell (360) 701-8212.
We look forward to connecting with you, Dennis and Diane Teague
email: denteague@gmail.com and dianedancing@gmail.com Send tax deductible donations through the website or checks to Mission Concepts at PO Box 44, Shelton, WA 98584 Give us a call for other options.
Dear Friends,
We hope this letter finds you thriving in these interesting times. We would like to share with you a few aspects of our journey and glorify God for His faithfulness to guide us all these years. Then we have some exciting news about our future plans.
As many of you know, we have spent the last 22 years pastoring in the Northwest. In July of 1999 we returned from 16 years of overseas mission work to place our daughter, Hope, in college. We anticipated a quick return abroad to the mission field by January 2000. However, Diane’s mother had a difficult surgery and needed home care. We decided to close our apartment Hong Kong and stay home a little longer..
“Man makes plans, but the Lord directs his steps.” When the season at home became longer than we expected, we were stirred to start a church in Olympia. With no money, no building and no people, we stepped out in faith and launched Rivers of Grace Church with a 4th of July picnic at Millersylvania State Park. The following Sunday we gathered to worship at Madison Elementary School on Legion Way and continued to do so for 12 1/2 years!
In October of 2013, we moved our congregation to a new location. The Free Methodist Church on the east side offered their space to us! We were delighted to move Children’s Church from a hallway at the school to a room and use a fully-equipped kitchen with fellowship hall! Needless to say we settled into ‘space’ that allowed us to host weekly services, annual garage sales, and to support Gethsemane ministries discipleship and recovery program.
Because of pandemic restrictions, the Methodist Church closed their facility and we no longer had a venue to gather. A small building at 620 SE Legion Way became available. Some of you may remember this as the location of Glory House.
For one year, we saw God bring in those who had no place to worship, including folks from the street. Just as we were planning to return to a normal routine in the spring of 2021, a fire destroyed part of the building. We temporarily held services at Camp Grace in Union, WA.
During the eight months it took for the insurance company to repair the building, we negotiated the purchase of another building. After some time all of our offers were declined.
In December, 2021 I was asking the Lord if we should resume meeting at 620 now that it was repaired. He clearly said, “Set it up and give it away.” In January He indicated to give it away in six months. Therefore we resumed worship at the building on Legion Way in February, 2022.
We awaited God’s next direction knowing He would bring the right person at the right time to fulfill the word He had spoken to us. Pastor Brian Hellenthal felt the Lord was directing him to this aspect of ministry. Some of you may recall our close affiliation with Pastor Brian and our support of Gethsemane for many years.
On July 31, 2022 we “gave it away” transitioning Rivers of Grace Sunday worship from our responsibility to Pastor Brian and his team.
What does this mean for Diane and I? We are being re-commissioned! We anticipate spreading some fire to the churches and friends who have supported our mission work all these years. Our passion for international missions has never wavered. Every year until the pandemic we made at least three trips overseas. The students we support and these missions were funded through Mission Concepts partners, not our local church missions. We hope to soon visit the nations again to bring encouragement and the Word of God.
Our calling is to spread the Holy Spirit’s refreshing through preaching the good news, Bible teaching, retreats and conferences, writing materials, and sponsoring underprivileged children’s education.
We appreciate all the love, prayers, and support you have shown over the years. We will continue to be a part of the Rivers of Grace community and would love to see you. We also serve the men and women at Gethsemane ministries who are breaking free from their drug and alcohol addiction through the power of Christ.
If you’d like to support us or if you don’t have a missions giving plan at your church, please consider partnering with us through “Mission Concepts”, our mission entity since 1983. We are now available to meet with you or to speak at your church. Call us at (360) 432-0658 or my cell (360) 701-8212.
We look forward to connecting with you, Dennis and Diane Teague
email: denteague@gmail.com and dianedancing@gmail.com
Send tax deductible donations through the website or checks to Mission Concepts at PO Box 44, Shelton, WA 98584 Give us a call for other options.
Joshua Bermil Barte Graduate
JOSHUA BERMIL BARTE, 22 years old, BS Criminology
LIFE STORY
Joshua Barte was born on January 27,2000 in Pasig City, Philippines. He has 4 siblings and is known as “Barts”. Barts lives with his family in Napico, located in Pasig City, a place where you can encounter people from all walks of life. His friends and companions just hangout, don
‘t have plans to study or ambitions in life, and remain as a burden on their family. Because he grew up with them, this is what sticks in his mind about what life should be – to be discouraged, to not aim high, and to expect his life to be like everyone else’s..
Aside from the environment that hinders him from dreaming high, they also struggled financially. They lived a simple life where his father was the only one working to support to support the family. In order to cut expenses, his mother didn’t encourage them to finish their education. Unfortunately, things changed. His father had another family and chose to abandon Bart. There was no one to support the family and that made his sister decide to stop schooling and started working to provide for their needs.
Fast forward to the year 2015, Barts was already in his 9th grade in High School about 15 minutes away from his house by public transportation. But because he lacked financial support, he had to walk about 30 minutes to school.. He also didn’t have money to buy food for break time and he only had a chance to eat when his friends shared what they had, but usually he skipped lunch and at dinner at home.
In that same year, Barts met Pastor Noy and his wife Beng, a campus missionary couple, that was given the chance to reach out to his high-school. Despite the fact that they only knew one student in that particular school, they did not give up and because of their sincerity and dedication in serving God, that one student multiplied and Barts joined their group. Through the life of this couple, he had the chance to attend fellowship and hear the Gospel. It all started as fun till one day their fellowship turned into serious conversations and the unexpected salvation happened. Barts, together with his friends, accepted Jesus in their lives and commited to walk with Him. Since then, they have been regular attenders at the fellowship every Friday, after class in a famous place near the school called “Magic Place”. JOSHUA BERMIL BARTE – “BARTS” MAGIC PLACE
Barts was very consistent in attending the bible study and became involved in the ministry. He was also determined to take his faith to the next level and willingly attended retreats and seminars. His first experience was held in Taytay New Life Fellowship and it was called “EGR” (Encounter God Retreat). It 
became his turning point and through this encounter, his faith grew deeper and he became more eager to know Jesus. Since then, he surrendered everything to God and decided to be His disciple.
His life was not a smooth sailing ones. It’s like a roller coaster ride where every day becomes a challenge for him. But still, he bravely accepted and willingly served in the kingdom of God. After class, instead of going home right away, he dedicated his time and effort in the work of the Lord and even invited his friends for fellowship despite the hindrances that may affect him. Even though he had no money for transportation to go to church, that didn’t stop him from serving God. He patiently walked around 2 km from his school in order to have this fellowship with others. His life is indeed a living proof that nothing should be impossible if we really desire to serve God.
Year 2016, Barts graduated from Junior high school and it was a big achievement for him. But, because they were struggling financially, continuing his study was not his priority. That was his plan but the plan of the Lord is better and best. God even used other people to show His great plans in Barts’ life. Pastor Dennis and Sister Diane Teague, American Missionaries, heard about his story and God touched their hearts to be part of somebody’s future. Indeed, God moves in wonderful ways. The missionary couple sponsored his studies and allowed him to continue pursuing his dreams. He enrolled for Senior High School in Asian College and chose his focus on Accountancy, Business and Management. While pursuing his dreams, he did not stop serving God, but he found more reason to serve Him with joy in his heart. And by the grace of God, the year 2018, he graduated from Senior High School. Because of this achievement, his family was very proud of Him knowing that he is the only one who went that far in education among the family.
God set his heart ablaze with fire and he became even more active in serving Him. His talent in playing guitar was even used for His kingdom and he became part of the music ministry.
God is faithful to His servants and He gives favor to those who endures hardships. The missionary couple continued to be an answered prayer to his life and they gave him full sponsorship in order to finish college.
EGR 2015 ASIAN COLLEGE – Senior High School CAMPUS OUTREACH – NLC EAST It was the best and toughest decision he has made because he knew he was not academically good. But, because of his passion to finish his studies and for his mother, he never gave up and pursued a 4-year degree of Bachelor of Science in Criminology in the Institute of Creative Computer Technology (ICCT) . During that time, he decided to be a working student and had the chance to work as an assistant in Autobase Car Exchange.
It was in the year 2020 that the pandemic came. Although there were lots of changes in the society his education didn’t stop. His school adapted the online means of learning and having a reliable internet connection and computer became a necessity. The blessing of the Lord is continuously flowing in his life. Ptr Dennis gave him a laptop for him to continue his studies. The next year, 2021, he received a heartbreaking news. His mother died because of Diabetes complications. She was one of his motivations in life and he was once told by her that she was very proud of him because she never thought or imagined that Barts would be able to take college and finish his studies. After the death of his mother, he became even more eager and passionate to
finish his studies and achieve his dreams knowing that his mother believed in him. After two years of online school, last May 24,2022, Barts graduated college with a BS in Criminology. People around him can see how faithful and good our God is. He never stops serving the Lord despite the crisis in his life and issues in the family. He is planning to take a board exam in December, in God’s will.
BARTE, JOSHUA – a faithful servant of God that never gives up because Jesus never gives up on him.
Happy Resurrection Day!
Dear Friends,
Spring has come to the Northwest. As new life breaks out in the trees, flowers bloom and the sun shines more. Yet we still have plenty of refreshing rain to keep things fresh and alive. This is also the time of year when we celebrate the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. He was crucified, died and was buried but on the third day He rose from the grave and lives today.. His resurrection is a promise of new life for all who believe.
1 Peter 1:3 Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy He has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,
We believes that all people are created in God’s image and that no life is beyond God’s reach. Our mission is to share Christ that all might believe and be saved. Therefore there is no place or person that is hidden from God’s reach. Take every opportunity to share what Jesus has done in your life. We all have a story that needs to be shared. May the power of the Holy Spirit anoint your words and bring signs and wonders as you speak. Pray for the sick, mentally weak, addicted, abused, marginalized and everyone who you come in contact with.
Romans 1:16 For I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God that brings salvation to everyone who believes: 1 Corinthians 2:4-5 Paul said, “My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power, so that your faith might not rest on human wisdom, but on God’s power.
May the Lord bless you as you share your faith with others and see God move in power not only in this season but all year round.
Blessings,
Dennis and Diane Teague
Ministry In Myanmar by Jerad Lenhart
Looking forward to 2022
Greetings friends!
We hope you’ve had a blessed Christmas and are entering the new year with eagerness to see what God has in store. Because of your faithful support and partnership with Mission Concepts, we continue to see souls added to the kingdom of God.
A Year In Review:
- As many of you know, Mission Concepts sponsors missionaries throughout the world. Special thanks to those who continue to sustain the work of Chris Heian as he traverses the globe, Elmer and Joy Matienzo in the Philippines, Faith Teague in the Middle East, Jared and Julia Lenhart in Myanmar and Dennis and Diane Teague as they serve in the USA and Asia. Your financial contributions and prayer have sustained them through this pandemic.
- Your generosity made it feasible to provide education for nine Filipino students and on-going services at the Hope for Kids Orphanage. Without your giving, these young people would not have the resources or home life to give them a better start in this life.
- This year we mailed 6 large “balikbayan” boxes to the Philippines. These packages are filled with much toiletries, garments, school supplies and special “American” snacks.
- Through your donations, we helped with community restoration after several typhoons. This included rebuilding several devastated churches, distributing food to survivors, and providing some cheer in a special Christmas project.
- Dennis continued to impact the world through Zoom teaching sessions. These workshops not only serve to strengthen the body of Christ but also help maintain connections with believes around the world. Souls are being saved, discipleship and follow up is ongoing and church growth continues despite the pandemic.
As you can see, nothing can stop the Kingdom of God as we all join together to support what God is doing.
Ways to be involved in 2022:
- Continue praying for the missionaries scattered throughout the world
- Continue financial contributions to Mission Concepts to support Filipino students and Hope for Kids Orphanage
- Partner with us in sending bi-annual “balikbayan boxes” to the Philippines
We believe this year will open up and put us back on the field to see first-hand the works of God over the last two years. We hope you will continue to support Mission Concepts both spiritually and financially.
God is on the Move
Dear Friends,
Yes, we are alive and well! Still preaching every week here at home. (at least to our recovery group since our church building caught on fire!) Zoom video is great, but we are waiting for face to face with our friends in other countries. We miss engaging with you in person. Please feel free to connect with us on Zoom. We trust you had a good Easter Celebration and Pentecost Sunday. We pray that you are continually filled with the Holy Spirit and see the hand of God moving in your life.
Isa. 60:1-3 We want to encourage you to rise and shine. Shouting at the darkness and pointing out the evil in it does not have much impact. Nations and kings (people of authority and influence) will come to the brightness of your light. Try some patience, kindness, and good news gospel. Hide it under a bushel? No!
Great News from the Philippines! Our students have worked online this last school year. With your support we purchased phones, tablets, or laptops, whatever was available, so they could make it through the school year. One middle schooler dropped out. He was more interested in drinking with his friends. Covid is still a big issue in the Philippines.
Please pray for the students: 5 university students: Bart, Syca, Andrew, Dennis, and Denise; 2 Elementary students: Ellamae and Elain; one senior in high school Marjorie; and Deanie in med school. Without supporting them in full or in part, none of them would have this educational opportunity. If the Lord puts it on your heart to help, send a check to the address below or through PayPal on our website. Write ‘students’ in the memo
More Great News! After more than a year of the covid slowdown, my book, “Jesus’ Recovery is Yours” Freedom from Alcohol and Drug Addiction, was just published through OMF. We are praying that many lives, broken by addiction, will get a new start through this book. The most excited news to me is the Filipino version of this book. We have printed 10,000 of these in the first edition to be distributed throughout the Philippines. Many thanks to Pastor Edwin Abisado, Cora Langi, and others who labored long hours to translate this book.
If you like poetry, I have published a small book of 9 poems called “Pot to Potter” by Dennis Teague. You can find it on Amazon. https://www.amazon.com/Pot-Potter-Dr-Dennis-Teague/dp/B0948GRV8Q/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=dennis+teague+Pot+to+Potter&qid=1620650931&sr=8-1
The Lord has called some home. In the past few weeks, my mother, Grace Teague, 93 yrs. old, went to be with Jesus. We also grieve for the recent passing of Carol Gray whom we worked with in China and Glenn Carter who also impacted China from Hong Kong.
Prayer Request: Our daughter, Joy, who does mission work with her family in the Philippines, has had several surgeries in recent months. Until now the airports in the Philippines are closed. We are waiting to go there as well as to Myanmar and some other countries on our hearts.
Hold steady! Jesus is coming, but until then, there is work to be done. Thank you for joining us in this effort.
Great Grace to you,
Dennis and Diane
Celebrating the Resurrection!
Dear friends,
As Easter holiday approaches we reflect on last year at this time. Because of Covid 19 we were robbed of celebrating the Resurrection as we have in past years with sunrise services, pageants, dinners with family or church members, Easter baskets and treasure hunts for the kids. This year may not be much different. Even if we are restricted to the number of people in the service, limit our singing or be required to wear masks, it does not take away from the sacrifice that Christ made for all of us while we were still in our sin and addictions. He died so we could be forgiven and made a way We will celebrate the risen Christ and the victory that He has won for each of us. We will give the Lord praise and exalt His name. Let the celebrations begin!
This is a great time to share your faith and make Jesus known. Here are some ideas to incorporate in your celebration.
- Pray for your country and for those who serve to make you safe.
- Pray for the persecuted Church around the world.
- Pray for the Missionaries and those working in difficult situations sharing the Gospel.
- Invite people to a small group and share the victories God has given you during this past year.
- Reunite with family that have been separated because of government restrictions or divided because of political affiliations.
- Take food to your neighbors or find out what other needs they may have.
- Give to those in need. Rally community support to help those in your circle of influence.
- Enjoy all that God has given you and don’t forget to share with others what God has prepared for them.
Nehemiah 8:10 “Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!”
Christ has risen! He has risen in deed. Blessings,
Dennis and Diane Teague
Celebration Christ In a World of Uncertainty
Dear Friends,
Perhaps you will be celebrating Easter in a new way this year. Last year it seemed as though we were robbed of the Easter celebrations we have had in the past due to Covid and sheltering in. Everything was changed to on line and no personal contact with family and friends. This year may not be much different for some people, but at least we are a bit more tech savvy and can get on line faster and not miss half the service. As we have experienced, sometime all the tech stuff just does not work as smooth as we would hope. Never the less, we will celebrate Easter in every possible way. God is still on the throne and worthy to be praised. Christ has risen and conquered the grave. He set us free from the bondage of sin and fear of death.
Steps you can take this Easter to bless others and share Christ.
1.Spend some time to pray for those who don’t have the same freedom we share.
2. Set aside time to fast for break throughs in your life, family, friends, neighbors and country.
3. Attend a worship service in person or on line.
4. Take food to those near you and celebrate Christ’s resurrection.
5. Send money to the nations so the Gospel of Christ’s resurrection can be proclaimed and celebrated.
Nehemiah 8:10 “Go and celebrate with a feast of rich foods and sweet drinks, and share gifts of food with people who have nothing prepared. This is a sacred day before our Lord. Don’t be dejected and sad, for the joy of the LORD is your strength!”
Christ has risen, He has risen in deed!
Dennis and Diane Teague
Giving Thanks Daily for the Gift of Jesus
Thanks be to God Who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
We stand together with those who are grieving for a lost loved one, confused by the continual stirring of the political pot, or suffering economic hardship and depression. Some psychologists are saying as much as 90% of depression comes from suppressed anger. The suicide rate is up. Domestic violence has increased. Medication and counseling offer some relief for those with money or good insurance. What about the rest of humanity?
We in the USA have so much to be thankful for. May we not be like selfish children who complain about food, family, and the government. Peter and John told Paul to “continue to remember the poor.” Obviously the poor are people here and abroad that are experiencing economic hardship. If we have the means, let us “send portions to those who have nothing prepared.” (Nehemiah 8:10)
The Philippines has 42% unemployment while being locked down from the virus and hit with natural disasters. Other countries are in worse situations. We have been sending money for food to a village church in the southern Philippines. It’s not enough to sustain them, but it says we love them and we haven’t forgotten them. The believers are joyfully purchasing, packaging and distributing food.
Our banner at church says “Giving Thanks” reminding us that Thanksgiving is more than a feast one day a year. Count your blessings and look for ways to be a blessing to those in your area of influence.
It doesn’t cost a penny to pray that angry people will find a positive way to deal with it. Do you have a non-judgmental word for them? Can you use your creative, prophetic gifting to encourage and impart hope to those who are ‘poor in spirit’? There are many who are weak in body and fearful in mind. Let’s be kind and patient with everyone.
Thanks be to God for the grace that will carry us beyond the pandemic.
Your Co laborers,
Dennis and Diane Teague
Tax deductible offerings send to Mission Concepts, PO Box 44, Shelton, WA 98584 or donate on our Mission Concepts website www.missionconcepts.org
September News 2020
Every Sunday our church personalizes the first six verses of Psalm 91. I encourage you to read it in the Bible and then try reading the following out loud: I am dwelling in the shelter of the Most High and resting under the shadow of the Almighty. The Lord is my refuge. He is my fortress. He is my God. I trust Him. He will save me from the snare of the fowler. He will save me from the deadly pestilence. The Lord will cover me with His feathers and I will find refuge under His wings. His faithfulness is my shield and rampart. I will not fear the terror of night nor the arrow that flies in the day time. I will not fear the pestilence that stalks in the darkness. I will not fear the virus that destroys at mid day.
In the USA many people are still out of work, and in need of food. Every day, sometimes twice, a Gethsemane bus filled with food parks
in Shelton and people line up to receive it. It is also distributed to other food banks and individuals who know people in need. Diane delivers one to three loads of food every day in her Ford Escape.
Please continue to pray for the Philippines. The shut down has had devastating effects on the people. There is 42% unemployment. The government there is having difficulty helping the people survive. No tourism means the loss of billions to the economy. Recently we started sending some money for food to a village church in Zamboanga City in the southern Philippines. They buy and package the food. Some of it goes to their village outreach 20km from the city.
If you want to help, you can your send tax deductible offering to Mission Concepts, PO Box 44, Shelton, WA 98584 or PayPal on our Mission Concepts website www.missionconcepts.org
Please continue to pray for the Philippines. The shut down has had devastating effects on the people. There is 42% unemployment. The government there is having difficulty helping the people survive. No tourism means the loss of billions to the economy. Recently we started sending some money for food to a village church in Zamboanga City in the southern Philippines. They buy and package the food. Some of it goes to their village outreach 20km
from the city.
If you want to help, you can your send tax deductible offering to Mission Concepts, PO Box 44, Shelton, WA 98584 or PayPal on our Mission Concepts website www.missionconcepts.org
Please Pray
- Persecution of believers is extreme.
- Remember to pray for the poor. Many in America are struggling to pay their bills. Other countries are far worse.
- Our students: School in the Philippines was delayed for 3 months. We bought devices for them to study online. It is a struggle including an unstable internet.
- I have been waiting for three months for my passport renewal.
Thank you, Dennis and Diane Teague
March 2020 Update
Dear Friends,
Diane and I are doing well. We hope you are safe and healthy. As believers we find ourselves looking beyond the challenges of the current spread of a deadly virus. Peace is available and yet sometimes illusive. Faith that is optimistic is considered by some to be unrealistic. Fearful people who are committed to a negative attitude are not move by facts. Some people are putting their faith in the government to solve the problem. Others find some kind of energy by blaming the government for mismanaging the crisis.
Our battle is not against people. (Ephesians 6:12) However we reject the paranoid perspective that a virus is lurking somewhere, ready to jump on us. The battle against fear is fought on our knees. We battle in prayer on behalf of those who are ill. We are the church without buildings.
We reject the theology that God is judging us with this virus. We live in the dispensation, the age, of grace. There will be a coming judgment day. (Hebrews 9:27)
We also reject the conspiracy theories because they are not helpful. They generate hopelessness and fear.
Our personal focus is prayer, comfort for the fearful, delivering food to those in need and encouraging those in recovery from alcohol and drug addiction. Jesus said the whole deal boils down to this: Love the Lord with all your heart, mind, soul, and strength. And love your neighbor as yourself. (Matthew 22:37-40)
We are praying for you and your family. Be blessed and wash your hands like your mama taught you.
Dennis and Diane Teague
January 2020 Report
China November 3-14
Diane and I had a successful time. Surveillance is quite hi tech now. Resident foreigners are being pushed out. It is not advisable to discuss the details. Most likely any news you have heard is true and probably worse.
The good news is that our friends are heating up instead of cooling down! And more hungry than ever. They invited us and chose the topics – church planting and missions!
Philippines Dec. 4-26
We taught Revival and Passion for Mission at Zion Ministerial Institute (ZMI). When we spoke at Eric and Janette’s church in Malabon, M.Manila, we were blessed to see Marjorie, 16. We’ve supported her since she was 3 yrs. old. She was abandoned by her father when he mother died.. She lived with her grandparents in a squatter shack. Being poor and having a tumor on her face, she would have never gone to school. With help from the church, the government, and a few bucks we put in, Her surgery was successful. She is a pretty 10th grader, on fire for Jesus, who wants to go to college and become an airline attendant.
Sunday, Dec. 22, we were in a village church we started 35 yrs ago in Zamboanga City, Mindanao. Three years ago nearly everyone left when a self appointed American ‘apostle’ had offered the pastor a ‘deal’. Then an older inexperienced couple took over with only a few people in the church. Edgar and Cora slept on the floor with one light on an extension cord. They just loved the Lord and the people, saved or not. Their grown daughters joined them to lead worship and help out. We encouraged them and gave them some money for remodeling. They started an outreach church 5 miles outside the city and a discipleship training group.
The church was packed out and flowing out the door! When the former pastor sheepishly showed up for Christmas dinner, I gave him a big hug and invited him to our table.
We celebrated Christmas with our daughter Joy’s family on mission in the Philippines after 9 years in Spain. Our daughter, Hope, and her husband, Nate, joined us from Abu Dhabi where they teach. Our daughter, Faith, also in mission work, came in from Cypress. Almost every day groups of people visited us, some of whom we haven’t seen for decades.
Thank you for your confidence in us. With your prayer support and generosity we went to Myanmar, China, and twice to the Philippines. Souls are coming to Christ, ministers are being mentored, students supported, disciples taught and churches planted.
Pray for our 2020 mission itinerary. There is plenty to do here and around the world. We will go wherever the Lord directs.
Trips to China and Philippines
China November 3-14
Please pray for Diane and I as we travel to China. Transportation is becoming more difficult and also the circumstances there. It is not advisable to discuss the details. We are concerned about our friends there.
Philippines Dec. 4-26
We will be teaching at Zion Ministerial Institute (ZMI) and several churches in t
he area. We hope to visit most of the students you are supporting. There are 2 elementary, 2 high school, 2 university, 1 med school, and 1 Bible school student.
We plan to celebrate Christmas with our daughter Joy’s family who recently moved to the Philippines after mission work for 9 years in Spain. Our daughter, Hope, and her husband, Nate, will join us from Abu Dhabi where they teach in the international school. Our daughter, Faith, a registered nurse, is studying Arabic for her mission work. She will join us.
Since we are busy preparing for these trips and working on a number of projects we may not send out a Christmas card or another news letter until after the New Year.
We just want to thank you for your confidence in us, your prayer support, and your generosity in supporting our mission efforts. Your partnership in these efforts means so much to us. Souls are coming to Christ, ministers are being mentored, students supported, disciples taught and churches planted.
Sincerely,
Dennis and Diane Teague
www.missionconcepts.com
PO box 44, Shelton, WA 98584
Congratulations to Our Graduating Students
When Deannie was in her 3rd year of collage she was burned from wax when the container slipped out of her hand and burned parts of her left torso, face and hand. Miraculously in 2 weeks the wounds were healed. The 3 degree burns left no scar.
Deannie Mae R Loreto now 19 years old graduated from the Nursing School at Western Mindanao State University with honors. WMSU College of Nursing 47th Pinning Ceremony she received *Clinical Proficiency Award – Silver Medal and Certificate *Red Cross Supreme Service Award – Gold Medalist and Certificate *Service Award – Silver Medal and Certificate *Journalism Award – Certificate *Athletics Award – Certificate Graduated a Cumlaude student. God willing she will continue her Medicine course to be a Doctor . We are so proud of her commitment to the Lord and to complete her course with honors.
Deannie’s Brother Dennis Joshua 18 years old graduated from High School at Bethany Child Development Center (one of the Christian school here in Zamboanga) . He received the Loyalty Sports award. He will pursue his studies to be a marine engineer. This young man has worked hard and has a vision for his future. We will continue to support him financially in his studies.
Dennis graduation from High School
Deannie and Dennis have a younger sister. Denise Keith is 17 years old and is enrolled in her last year of High School at Western Mindanao State University. She is doing well. Please keep her in your prayers as she is working hard in spite of a heart condition.
February in Myanmar
Seattle-Beijing-China-Kunming-Myanmar and back again. Lost luggage didn’t steal our joy but each leg of the journey reminded us to trust God’s provision and be grateful for our bed at home!
In Myanmar (previously, Burma), we traveled to three major cities and were privileged to meet so many believers. While the Gospel has reached many of those in this region, there is always a need for revival. We held 3 days of meeting which included Bible teaching during the day and revival at night. From drunks to monks, young people and adults alike received salvation experienced the power of God through prayer, healings, and deliverances. We looped back through Mandalay to pick up our luggage before heading to Lashio to bring, love, presents and a special message to the Children’s Home. We were blessed to join a team of Burmese, Chinese, and American believers as we partnered with Frontier Harvest Ministry.
A personal highlight was visiting the Elephant Reserve. After navigating the dusty countryside, we arrived at the camp. These elephants worked for the government hauling logs out of the forest. Now they have a beautiful home for retirement. It is a unique place for families to enjoy the outdoors with nature and these awesome animals.
As with every trip abroad, we seek to glorify God through all our encounters. If you feel God tugging at your heart, go get your passport and come with us sometime!
Dennis and Diane Teague
Frontier Harvest Ministry
Children’s Home in Lashio, Myanmar
Pastors Luke and Genevieve, Myanmar
Special lunch at the Children’s Home
Revival Meeting Altar Call
Afternoon Seminar
Dennis Teague
Diane Teague
Workers Transportation
New Book And Mission Video
Here is Dennis’ latest book “Jesus, Who Are You”. Many people think they know who Jesus is but do they really? Prophet, teacher, good man, Son of God? Great tool for teaching about Jesus. Includes study guide. All his books can be ordered on this website and riversofgrace.org
Also our 2018 Video of Myanmar and Philippines is now on YouTube https://youtu.be/rQH333GM_Zc
Back From Asia Fall of 2018
Mandalay, Myanmar (Burma) We joined the Frontier Harvest team for the first week launch of Harvest Coffee House, a jamming new church in Mandalay. Sunday is worship and during the week they serve coffee, yummy fruit salads, homemade donuts, and sets of worship interspersed with gospel messages. The team had spread fliers a
ll over the area so we had visitors every day. Some of the Burmese team members are planning to move their families to the area to carry on the work.
U Bein Bridge spans the Taungthaman Lake near Amarapura in Myanmar. The 1.2-kilometre (0.75 mi) bridge was built around 1850 and is the oldest and (once) longest teakwood bridge in the world. We visited the bridge on our ‘day off’.
Philippines
After recovering from dysentery (Thank you, Uncle Chan’s restaurant) we went to Mindanao and had a Holy Ghost time in the Fernandez Dr. village church. The love, joy, and faith of the older, new pastors has resurrected the church after what some call a Gideon revival (Judges 7). Then we traveled back to Taytay, Rizal near Manila. Perfect timing to pray for Pastor Rino who had a heart attach the week before! One of the highlights of the trip was sharing with Pastor Noy and his youth church which started from a basketball outreach to high school kids.
Prayer Requests:
- Please pray for the Myanmar Lashio Children’s home. It increased another 26 kids in the last 5 months. They come from the mountains where there is little food and no school because the government is fighting the rebels. The children walk an hour to get to school. The orphanage takes their lunch to them. They are safe and cared for, but they desperately need of a boys’ dorm.
- Our daughter, Faith, doing medical mission work in the middle east.
- Our next schedule to China and the Philippines in November to be clarified.
Thank You for Your Support! We are Co laborers in Christ.
Dennis and Diane Teague
Tax deductible offerings go to Mission Concepts, PO Box 44, Shelton, WA 98584
or PayPal on our Mission Concepts website www.missionconcepts.org
Spring Mission Trip
Myanmar (Burma) April 17-27 Dennis flew to Mandalay through China and joined the Frontier Harvest team driving to the city of Lashio for three days of ministry at a church/children’s home. Children keep coming from the hills because there is no school and little food. The rebels take the boys and make them soldiers in the 65 yr. old civil war. The children’s home has minimal facilities, but the kids are safe, fed, and go to school which is an hour walk one way. On the 3rd day of our conference it was my joy to share a message with the kids and pray with them to receive Jesus as their Lord.
Mission Concepts supports students in the Philippines
Thanks to MC supporters Bart and Syca graduated from high school. They have little support at home because of family dysfunction and unemployment. They are on-fire believers who passed there entrance exams and are headed to university
Ellamae Vilan, a fourth grader, comes from a poor fishing family in a remote area of Southern Luzon. Her parents are not believers, but she and her sister are faithful to the church. Her sister, Elaine, will be a second grader. They are pictured in the ‘moving up’ ceremony at the end of the school year, which means they passed to the next grade
. 
Marjorie is now grade 9 in June. She was abandoned by her parents and is being raised in a squatter village by her grandmother. Her grandfather passed away last year. Her grandma does laundry to support them. Mission Concepts is supporting her throughhigh school and college if she wants to go.
Cesar (not pictured) is a shy boy who lives in the church in Malabon. He quit school last year, but the pastor, Eric Jaraba, has encouraged him to start the eighth grade. We have started giving money for Cesar this year.
We are helping the working widow, Mhey Loreto. Deanie, forth year, and Dennis go to Western Mindanao State University. Denise is an eighth grader this year.
On April 27 I met Diane in Hong Kong and we flew to the Philippines. We spoke in churches, did a seminar on sound doctrine in Baguio City, and shared in Antipolo New Life Church. Unfortunately the pastor passed on to heaven, but his daughter is doing an excellent job in his place.
While in Zamboanga, Mindanao we visited Hope for Kids, since I am on the board. The children’s home was founded by Gail Ashby and directed by Al Cabading. The government agent who visited recently said it was the best facility he’d seen in the whole country.
Prayer Requests:
- Please pray for the students MC support, Hope for Kids, and the Lashio Children’s home in desperate need of a boy’s dorm.
- For Frontier Harvest’s plan to plant a church in Mandalay in August.
- Our daughter, Faith, doing medical mission work in the middle east.
Thank You for Your Support! We are Co laborers in Christ.
Dennis and Diane Teague
Tax deductible offerings go to Mission Concepts, PO Box 44, Shelton, WA 98584
or PayPal on our Mission Concepts website www.missionconcepts.org