(since we last wrote)
Dec. 31st
Warmest Greetings from Guam,
In February, Guam was host to TWR's Asian Regional Management Team meetings where we were updated on developments and future plans. The best way to describe the state of this region for TWR is change -- change in structure, leadership, staffing and output methods. Our goal is to develop the ministry using the most relevant and efficient means.
Programming and method of delivery are being evaluated to ensure the needs of people within the region are being met. Vernacular languages and programming continues to expand, with our 20th language (Javanese) recently coming "on line." We were encouraged to hear reports of listener responses to our broadcasts, including breakthroughs to unreached and troubled areas of the region. TWR has been focusing on cooperating with other Christian organizations to accomplish mutual goals of evangelism and discipleship.
TWR's local AM station on Guam is also in a time of transition, with a new local Board of Directors and Executive Director in place. We are encouraged that the local Church is taking the baton to carry on this ministry to their own people.
Perhaps the biggest change concerns the conversion to the digital audio system. This project is consuming the majority of Doug's time these days. The new system will replace the 20+ year old analog (tapes) system. TWR is using new technologies to produce and air Gospel programs. The new computer audio system will allow for a more efficient delivery of the programs to Asia in the future.
At the time of this writing (early March), much of the computer hardware has been assembled and is in the process of being tested. We still need to set up the software and design the broadcast schedules. A representative for the software company will be arriving from France on the 10th of March to install and test the system. He will also conduct training on how to use it.
We have already seen spiritual warfare with this project. Hardware has been shipped to the wrong location more than once. There have also been schedule interruptions and personnel concerns. However, by the time you read this letter we should have the system installed and operating -- God willing! We would appreciate your prayers for the technical transition. Many producers in the region still need to convert from analog to digital production in the months to come.
Project Hannah's Women of Hope Program
Women of Hope currently broadcasts from Guam in English, Indonesian, Burmese, Korean, Thai and Khmer. Other translations are in progress. In December 1999, Trans World Radio's leadership expanded Project Hannah's ministry globally. As the Lord leads, we will reach out not only in prayer, but also with programs to those on other continents.
A listener to the Burmese version of Women of Hope wrote
the following:
"I am glad that you create a special program for women. Women of Hope is very informative, especially on health matters. I am delighted to listen again and again. In each program the Lord has shown me new insights. Thank you again for reminding me that I am a coworker with our Creator to create beautiful, strong, faithful, noble sons and daughters for His beloved world."
"Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is
not here; he has risen!"
Luke
24:5-6
Wishing you a blessed Easter, celebrating the resurrection of our Lord!
Because He lives,
