Jimmy Mangrum, Radio Interview with Scott Gregory

                                      WLSM Radio in Louisville, Ms.

                                                     Nov. 29, 2011

We have Bro. Jimmy Mangrum of Miracles of Faith Ministries with us. 

Bro Mangrum, I know a lot of people in the area know you.  But, I’d like for us to talk about how a local boy grew up to make a global impact in peoples lives.

           First of all Scott, somebody else cared about me and I heard the gospel and was saved.  In turn, I realized there were multitudes of people in the same condition as I had been.  And, God called me to do something about it; not only in America, but also abroad.”

 Well, Bro. Mangrum, how do you do that?

           My wife and I do it by faith, using the vehicle of “Miracles of Faith Ministries”, which is a non-profit 501-C-3 Christian organization. We don’t try to do it by ourselves.  We have a board and I am the President.  And, being non-denominational, we make it possible in local communities for individuals, churches, and even businesses to participate as well.

How could local people be involved?

          By us being “project based” people of different interest, abilities, or situations in life, can help in the way that best suits them.

           For example:  After the earthquake in Haiti, I was there and saw the chaos and needs.  A pastor there needed a truck to reach  people and deliver supplies.  We prayed, and a pickup was supplied by a man in the car business.  Two mechanics did needed repairs. A contractor paid the gas to get it to the docks in Florida, and on the way down a pastor put a gospel tent in the back, to which a fisherman added a generator. A pastor at the port put it on a ship, and another ministry joined in by paying the shipping costs.  By sharing the costs and work, different caring people achieved together, what none could have done alone. Now the pastor in Haiti is elated to use that vehicle to bless many with the gospel, food, and other desperately needed supplies!

Bro. Mangrum, that is a touching and powerful story!  But, the workload and on-going costs of all these mission projects you have done over the years here in the U. S, the Philippines, Africa, Haiti, Mexico, etc.; must really add up, how do you afford it?

For one thing, we have learned how to make every little bit go a long way by inspiring, training, and helping the people we support to become self-sustaining / independent!  We teach them to trust God, and use what has been provided to achieve a  sustainable (or on going) benefit.  It’s the, “don’t just give them a fish, but also give them a hook and a pole and teach them to fish” principle. When they can sustain themselves, we’re able to transfer the ministry’s resources elsewhere. That way, what our helpers give accomplishes a lot more with a lot less.

O K, what project is Miracles of Faith working on at this time?

We have a couple of them Scott.  One is: We need another pickup (a four cylinder, standard shift Toyota or Nissan in the 1980s or 90s) for another pastor in Haiti.

          The other project is: There’s an orphanage being built by a missionary lady in Mexico right now.  Many innocent children are becoming orphaned almost every day, especially because of the violence there.  The adults those children grow up to be, will depend largely on who they are raised by, and what they’re taught.  The orphanage will be run by dedicated and loving Christian people.

          We are helping with the needs the orphanage has; in fact, some of the people listening right now may be able to supply some of them!

What are those needs Bro. Mangrum?

The orphanage needs a large propane cook stove, pots and pans, dishes, and cooking utensils, one deep freeze, and a refrigerator.  They need sturdy folding tables, and chairs also; and two washers and dryers.  Sheet sets for 25 twin beds, along with pillows, pillow cases, spreads, and bath towels.  They’ll need plenty of kids shoes and socks.  And remember, all donations and gifts are tax deductible.

How can our listeners who want to make a difference in these situations you mentioned get involved?

I’m in the Louisville phone book, 662-773-2385; or send an email to:  missions @ miraclesoffaith.org.  Also, for a detailed list of these needs or to learn more about our ministry, they can go to www.MiraclesOfFaith.org 

Thank you for being with us this morning Bro. Mangrum.

You are welcome; God bless you!

               _________________________________________________________________________

It's late October!  The weather is good and the country side is gorgeous here in central eastern Mississippi.  Deer season is upon us, and the real cold weather is coming south.  I hope everyone is ready for this, or getting ready; while enjoying this grand season of the year.

     I was born and lived until I was six years old here in the hill country where I live now.   But, I grew up mostly in the delta.  In those earlier years in the delta, my family lived on a plantation were we farmed, raising mostly cotton.  In the early summer we "chopped" cotton; thinning the stand of plants out, and cutting out the weeds and grass.  During the summer, we "hoed" the cotton, two to three times; cutting out the grass.  Then, in the fall, we "picked" the cotton; sometimes twice.  After that, we didn't have to do a lot of hard work all winter long, except cut more firewood if we hadn't cut enough earlier.

     Now, to some, that might be, "the good ole days."  Indeed, there were some good things and times in that life style.  But, I declared back then that if I ever got grown, I would be hungry before I picked up a "goose neck hoe", or a "nine foot cotton sack" to go back to the cotton fields again.  Thank God, I have never gotten that hungry yet!  And besides, now, I am glad they have invented the mechanical cotton picker! 

     Well, enough reminiscing.  We are busy as usual working for Jesus in His field.  We are traveling, preaching, gathering items and resources for use in the mission field, and praying for a good harvest of souls for Jesus.  It is harvest time in the world.  "The fields are white unto harvest, but the laborers are few."  I recently heard an elderly former missionary to Pakistan speaking.  He has retired three times, but the first two times he went back to work because there was none to fill his place.  Even now, he can't be still, but is speaking often to challenge the younger generation of Christians to step up and move forward in the Lord's mighty army.  My soul was deeply stirred within me as I heard this awesome person pour himself out to the audience to not just seek to make converts, but to make disciples; training them to in turn duplicate themselves.  Henceforth, I am determined to do more for Jesus than I ever have hereunto.

     Wintertime is coming on and time to work seems to be running out.  The abundant but hard won freedoms and opportunities that we Christians have always enjoyed here in America, and even mistakenly taken for granted, are rapidly flowing away.  Christians, as a whole, have not been willing to sacrifice and labor enough to hold the line against the enemy.  Resources, opportunities, and freedoms we fail to use for Jesus today, may be greatly diminished, or completely taken away soon.  After all, if we lavishly heap these things upon ourselves instead of properly managing them for what Jesus intended them for, then we are slothful servants and are wasting them.  This is not a dooms day emotional false alarm, but an absolute reality!  We ourselves, as Christians, are not even our own.  We are bought with a price, the precious sinless blood of Christ.  How much less are the things ours; (spiritual, fiscal, and material) that he has placed under our management?

     Some may say, "Bro. Mangrum, this is not a "News Flash"!  We already knew all this."  Well, good!  Then you have surely already stopped wasting your lives, substance, and opportunities on self and the vanities of this life.  But, for the rest, I implore you to change directions now!  Start now laying up treasures in heaven where it can't be taken away, but will be reserved in a spiritual way for your arrival there.  Please don't hold on until the Lord allows it to be taken away here!  Then, what God has entrusted into your hands will never be of any benefit to you.

     If we can help you in any way to understand more about what I am talking about, or to carry it out in your life, please don't hesitate to contact us.  We love you.  God bless and keep you by His mighty power!

In Jesus,

Brother Mangrum

Hello in September!   

     I left off on my last report with my trailer loaded and tarped, ready to head out for the Mexican border in the Rio Grande Valley.  We made that trip, with the Lord's help; and it turned out well.  The trailer was loaded with seriously needed items for the orphanage Sis. Mary is building in Mexico.  She was so happy to receive everything.  We appreciate everyone who contributed in any way; with the items and with finances to get them there.  

     While we were there, I repaired three mission vehicles at her mission base, and one more for another missionary, Bro. Don, at his headquarters. 

     I preached in a Hispanic church on this side of the border.  Mexican people were present in the service who didn't understand English, so the pastor asked me to preach in Spanish.  I was a bit rusty in my Spanish, but the Holy Ghost more than made up for it.  God did a wonderful work in the altar service as several presented themselves to Jesus as a willing sacrifice for His kingdom. 

     There were at least two people from Mexico present who had been shot multiple times by cartel members, in separate situations and times, and left for dead.  In each case, they were the only one who did live!  I spoke with several Mexican people.  Almost every one had a family member or someone close to them that had been killed, was missing, or narrowly escaped death by the cartels.  Please pray for the country of Mexico, and for the inocent people who are suffering needless violence.  God is able to make a difference.

     I attended another Hispanic service where an elderly Mexican minister preached.  He gave much testimony of how God had intervened and wonderful things happened!  At least, in most cases, the churches are growing under the fire of persecution in Mexico.

     We visited some good old time friends of ours in East Texas on the way home.  We had good fellowship, and the brother and I got out looking at some antique cars he had bought to rebuild when he retired.  Then, he became disabled and could not get them ready to sale.  So, he is going to just sell them for a low price and let them go.  He did want to get them started so people could see that they will run.  In two or three hours I had two of them cranking.  I enjoyed it!  By the way, he has a 1960 Ford T-Bird that is solid, it even has new tires on it, and an identical parts car to go with it that is almost complete.  If anyone is interested, let me know.

     We didn't slow down when we got home until several days ago when my wife came down with shingles!  Pray for her, she is hurting.  We are asking Jesus for total deliverance soon. 

     God bless you all. 

    
Sincerely yours in Christ,

Jimmy and Ruth Mangrum

                                                                     July Update!

Hello again to our friends,

     It seems that we just jumped from a winter that lasted through April, right into summer; and what a hot summer!  Now, May and June has swooshed by us in a flurry of activity, mission endeavors, and trips; and July is doing the same.

     We got the 4x4 mission pickup for Haiti ready to go in May.  Actually, it still lacked a couple of things done to it, but they plan to do that in Haiti. 

     The day before leaving, we got some young people together here in the area, and did a "Sticker Shock" program for Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD). 

                                          

 It went well.  The young people enjoyed putting the stickers on the entire stock of alcohol in a local business, and we enjoyed working with them.  It made the front page in the paper and made quite an impact against driving drunk. 

     We had a great trip down to Florida, except we got tired.  On the way down, the Lord blessed with a small gospel tent, at one place (and a tire for my trailer). The rest of the money to make the trip was added at another stop, (We left with not nearly enough).  Then, a 4K generator was donated for the tent at yet another. 

     We delivered the truck to a brother, originally from Haiti, to ship it.  It supposed to be on the boat right now!  Next, we attended a memorial service for a family member in Florida, preached in a new church to us, and enjoyed being there. 

                
                                                                            

     Upon arriving home, we prepared to go to a church about two hours away for a week end.  Then, we were in Jackson, MS for a couple of days when we received word that my wife's oldest brother, also a preacher, was about to pass away.  He did pass away, and we went to Arkansas for five days.  The family gave him a good and fitting funeral service.  He preached fervently, lived what he preached, and will be missed by many.  We were blessed to see a lot of people at the funeral that we had not seen for many years.  

     When we got home from Arkansas, we began to pack things to take to Mexico to an orphanage that a missionary lady friend of ours is almost finished with.  My 16' flat bed is loaded right now from one end to the other with needed items for the orphanage.  The load is tarped down and ready for that trip.  Please pray for our strength, the safe keeping of the Lord, and that our needs be met.

                                                         

     I know I have missed some of the things we have been involved in for Jesus, but I may touch on some of that at a later time.  God bless you all richly according to His beautiful will for your life.

Love in Jesus

Bro. Jimmy Mangrum and wife, Sis. Ruth


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                                                                   April Flash Update!

The time has kept clicking, Ruth and I've been missing; at least from the update section of our web site.  I apologize.  This year is running away with us.  It's late April already!  Events and tasks have had our attention big time.  But, I am back!  Now, I want to fill you in on just some of that activity.

     January found us enjoying ministering mostly around here locally.  Church done right is one of the closest things to heaven there is here on earth!  It is Jesus being manifested through His saints that makes it that way.  Praise His Name!  Also, we are very grateful because the Lord blessed us to get a new heat and air unit installed in our house.  The old one had been good, but it was almost gone.  We serve a good God!

     February  started out with us being in service with our dear friends Pastor Harrison and the church family in Booneville, MS.  They are sweet people; like God's people are supposed to be, of course.    Then, one of our close friends here in Louisville, Sis. Kaye Reed, went home to be with Jesus after about a year with cancer.  She was one of my wife's best friends, and a jewel of a person.  She is sorely missed by more than just her family.  To us it seems to be a tragedy, but for her it was just a graduation.  In the wee hours of the morning on Valentine’s Day we were in Hattiesburg, MS in our Sub\urban, with our travel trailer in tow, sitting at the Emergency Room entrance of the hospital!  We had gone down the night before to be with a widow friend of ours for surgery that day.  My wife had a sudden and serious gall stone attack in our trailer in the trailer park.  I had not unhooked from the trailer, so that is why it followed us to the ER.  After a few hours she was stabilized; and the doctor recommended surgery soon.  We stayed on two or three days to be with our friend through her surgery, and while Ruth finished recuperating too.

     March caught us going again.  We enjoyed ministering in a new church for us in Sebastopol, MS, where Bro. Pinter is pastor.  A few days later we were attending a fine banquet and fun time at French Camp, MS.  The banquet was held by the 100K watt Christian radio station there in honor of its supporters.  Supporting them is another way we feel we can reach out with the "Good News" to thousands of people on a daily basis.  When a few more days passed we were on the move, working our way up through MS to be gone for the rest of the month.  In Houston, we parked our trailer at dear Sis. Black's house and attended a "fun day" fund raiser at our home church with Pastor Greg Moss and our church family.  There was very good food, like always, good fellowship, and fun for the kids.  That afternoon we rode with Sis. Black over to nearby Vardaman (the "Sweet Potato Capitol of the World")  to attend a Golden Anniversary celebration.  It was held by the children and church for our dear pastor friends, Bro. and Sis. Ray Hamblin.  The next day Sis. Black loaded our vehicle with a lot of those famous sweet potatoes.  We have shared them with a lot of people, eaten them ourselves, and still have sweet potatoes!  We left Sis. Black's and were on our way to Senatobia, MS.  There we held a mission service about my Haiti trip in the church of Pastor Phillip Umberger (one of our board members for MFM).  That night we also had a mission service in Senatobia with Pastor Bud Lane and church.  While in the area we got our taxes done by our long time friend, Bro. Jack Arndt, who is with H & R Block.  Later, we had a brief visit with one of Ruth's younger brothers.  From there we were off to the foot hills of Arkansas to visit with and minister for Pastor George Osborn for the first time.  I had a long standing commitment to do so, and it was a joy!  Bro. Osborn and ourselves had worked together on different mission projects.  He is a good preacher, Bible teacher, pastor, and person!  The people received us well and we had a good service.  Bro. Osborn even baked us a special pie to take with us.  

     April  Spring time!  Or is it?  We have had numerous storms, cold spells, and yet some beautiful days at times.  Yes, it is Spring time!  We were home to rest, but mostly were playing "catch up;" me with the yard of the Mission Base, communications, Honey Do's, etc.  My wife with correspondence also, some of the lighter house work, Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) business, etc, until it happened again, gallstone attack!  This time she wanted to "cast it from her", which she did.  She had surgery in Jackson and is mostly recovered now, PTL!  We were back down there last week for 5 days for her check up, and other activities.  Last Sunday evening we went to 4 churches down there, and didn't get to attend any service.  Three had no Sunday evening service, though one of them advertised that it did, and the people were leaving another one when we were arriving, about 6:30!  However, we did enjoy attending a service on Wednesday night.  We were finally back home from Jackson, but just long enough to repack and head for Alabama.  We had prayed so hard and long, and helped with finances from our ministry, to get a missionary, Bro. A. D. Higdon, home from the Philippines.  He was in a dying condition in a hospital over there for months, and too sick to fly home.  There was much prayer from many,  several miracles, and some hard work; especially on the part of Bro. Higdon's daughter who had gone over there to help him, and Pastor Larry Perkins in Alabama.  Now, Praise God, Bro. Higdon is home!  At least he is in the hospital in Birmingham.  He is still very sick, but he can get better care there.  Please pray for his healing.  He talked to us as we visited with him in the hospital, and he was so grateful as we prayed with him.  We met Bro. Perkins for the first time in person at the hospital.  He invited us to minister in his church Sunday.   He and his wife, as well as the whole Church, received us like we were life long friends.  God moved mightily in the church, and 6 souls were baptized in Jesus' name!  Thank the Lord!

     May  is pressing down on us hard now.  Among other things, we hope to carry a 4x4 pickup to Florida and get it on a ship to Haiti, and make a trip to the Texas border with a load of items for an orphanage in Mexico during May.  We are believing that Jesus will provide for these trips.  We also have several invitations to minister that we want to fulfill.  It looks like a busy month coming up, the Lord willing!  We have about worn our old Suburban out.  It needs a good bit of money spent on it for repairs.  Would you just help us pray for a better one? 

  
   Well, this long report (and I had to leave a lot out) is what I get for waiting so long.  We invite you to be a part of what we are doing for the Lord through prayer for us, supporting with your finances or other type donations, or even hands on in certain situations.  God bless you and yours richly, in Jesus' Name.  Amen!     

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Jimmy and Ruth Mangrum


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Greetings to Everyone!

Yes, we're still in the land of the living, though some might have been wondering, since we haven't written an update in a good while. We have been doing a lot lately.  I'm retirement age; time to slow down. But, I think I missed the brake and hit the accelerator instead! (Oh well, the Bible says there's no discharge from this war anyway.) Thank God, I read the end of the Book, and I know who wins; and, I'm 100% on Jesus' side. He will save His people from their sin.

August was when my wife, Ruth, had a scheduled cancer check up. Thank God, she got another good "cancer free" report! We have had a lot of scheduled medical appointments, (eyes, dental, physicals, etc). Our health is doing fairly well, all things considered. Although there are quite a few things to consider; our goal right now is to keep on living and working until Jesus calls us home. Speaking of living and working, we indeed have been very busy since our last letter or update; (just like before then too, In fact). I'll give you an example.

September found us preaching in some local area churches, (I enjoyed it; I hope they did!), attending two special homecoming church services, (there I enjoyed the services, the fellowship, and the food). We had three friends to help me work on three different projects here on the Miracles of Faith Mission Base, at different times during the month.

They were a tremendous help, it is difficult for me to get a lot done by myself.  Then, we went to Arkansas to visit and pray for a relative in very serious condition in the hospital, who also is a preacher. He is a man of great faith, and he is up going again, Praise God! From there we doubled back through the Memphis area and visited two of Ruth's relatives in nursing homes, and prayed with them. (One of them is back home, PTL!) We attended a birthday party for a young special needs boy we had helped to get into a great Christian boarding school near us. (He didn't get to stay too long, but he had some very good experiences that I believe will always be of help to him).

October was similar, in that it was busy. On the third weekend alone, we pulled our travel trailer to Walker, Louisiana, down on the coast, and participated in a two day 70th anniversary celebration in a church where we have a lot of friends. They are like "family" to us. From there, we went over to the Mississippi Gulf Coast and visited a dear pastor of long acquaintance, and spent the night there. (He was a true hero in Katrina, staying behind through the storm where his actions probably saved several people's lives). I thought we were holding up pretty good, being in our mid sixties, until we stopped by on the way home and visited with our pastor of long ago. He and his wife have started a new church in south Mississippi, including constructing a nice new building. He is in his eighties now!  Indeed, there is no discharge from this war; only graduation one day. It was a long, but enjoyable week end.  

November was filled with some exciting events! One of the exciting things happened on the 6th. In the afternoon, my wife and I attended the WFCA FM108 Club annual Radio-thon in French Camp, MS, at the radio station auditorium. (It's located on the beautiful and spacious grounds of the French Camp [Christian] Academy). We enjoyed a lot of good local Gospel music talent, food, and fellowship; and were grateful to be able to make a donation to the station to help keep it on the air; giving out the good Christian programming.  

The next day at 6:00 AM I left for Haiti. That was exciting too, (but with sadness mixed in). I saw God move in many beautiful ways, and got to help a lot of people, (especially helping the ministers to help their own people). I also experienced suffering humanity on a mass scale, and in numerous ways! I saw the ever present poverty, (large numbers of human beings are actually dying there from starvation, and its associated ills).  I saw the damage of the earthquake, still very little dealt with. There are about one million people still living repressive lives in numerous "tent cities;"  within the capitol, especially.

We drove by the National Palace;                                                            

though most of it was still upright, it was totally destroyed. Roads and streets were broken, some destroyed. Cholera was spreading like wild fire and had killed or infected thousands by the time I left. Foreign armed troops were patrolling the streets, and the political election primaries were heating up. Clouds of possible violence were looming on the already enormously troubled horizon of Haiti. I saw people just having to live their lives right on amidst the rubble and hardships. In contrast though, the most exciting, interesting, and wonderful thing I saw was that the Gospel was un-hindered by all else! God is sending people from America and other nations to build schools, (mostly Christian schools).

The native preachers are not only still preaching, but new church and school buildings are going up. The Lord is emphasizing education in Haiti right now; ("---Go ye---, and teach all nations,---" Matt. 28:19). I was blessed to give humanitarian help in several ways; food, clothing, small items, and even eye glasses. I got to preach and testify for Jesus; and often gave one on one spiritual and practical counseling, as the Lord directed me. It was a busy time; and, God kept His mighty and wonderful hand upon me.  On my way back, from Haiti to Miami, FL, I was seated on the plane beside a lady doctor from Argentina. She had been there for a month, working long hard hours with a group helping with the cholera epidemic. The lady had slept very little in the last 24 hours; she really cared about the people. I asked her questions about the cholera. She told me that washing the hands with chlorinated water before putting them to the mouth would keep a person from getting cholera. Also, if a patient was brought to them before they became so dehydrated that an IV could be injected, they would live; if not, they would die. Her voice trailed off, "We saved a lot of them." (I could feel the compassion and agony in her heart over those they couldn't save.) At this point, Jesus had compassion for her soul, and this doctor listened extensively, and with interest, to me telling her about the one who could save her. Precious seed was planted; and I feel they fell in "good ground". I pray someone will water them, and that God will give the increase. The doctor is an eternity bound soul, just like you and me. Our daughter came for Thanksgiving with her three children. It was a blessing to have them here for a few days and we had a good time. Among many other activities, we enjoyed our Thanksgiving meal together. Then, we gave opportunity for each of us to share for what we were thankful. Our daughter was our youngest child, but has the three oldest of our 8 grandchildren. They are 15, 13, and 11. (They are growing up just too fast, it seems). Our two sons and families are doing good, and staying busy. Our children are in the hard working years of raising a family. We still miss our other daughter; (and the family she probably would have had). She's been with Jesus for over 15 years now; killed by an intoxicated young driver. We'll see her again soon though, by the grace of God; and because of the salvation Jesus bought for her and for us with His precious, holy blood.

December has been a bit difficult. There had been several deaths in our circle of friends and relatives before I went to Haiti. Then, after I returned, we attended the funerals of three more good friends the first week of December! We have lost a total of at least 10 people, family or friends, in the last couple of months. It reminds me of the song, "There's a whole lot of people going home." (And, I'm sorry, but for any who are not truly saved, according to the Bible, then "home" won't be heaven!) I hope the funerals are over for a while.

January, 2011 is here. Happy New Year! This is a brand new year; may our precious Lord bless you all in 2011 in new ways that only He knows how.  Along with the new year, there are two current projects I want to share with you at this time.

One project is a much needed vehicle for Bro. Willis. He told me a Toyota or Nissan would be best because of durability, parts availability in Haiti, and gas economy. And remember, gas economy is important. (I paid 8 U.S. dollars a gallon for gas when I was there last month!) The roads are primitive, and he has a big river to cross each time he goes and comes from the village where his home, and one of his churches and Christian schools are located.

So, the Lord has blessed us; a brother in Kentucky has found a good, economical, 4x4, extended cab Nissan pickup. He is donating a good portion of the cost, so all we need is $2500 to finish the purchase!

The second project is to help the church there to feed a dozen elderly people that Bro. Willis said they help when they can. I was blessed to buy two months' supply while I was there. I went with Bro. Willis to distribute it, and prayed for the elderly people. One lady was over 100 years old; very uncommon indeed in Haiti! Another had given food to Bro. Willis as a small hungry child.

Now he is a mature man of God, and is giving her food. It cost only $100 a month to supply basic food for them all! We invite you to have a part in providing this vehicle, or the food, or helping in any way you feel led to help. Bro. Willis is a faithful, effective, and worthy minister of the Lord. He is being greatly used to accomplish a part of what God is doing in Haiti in this hour. Let us hear from you, by phone, letter, or E-mail. We thank each of you for everything you have done to help us and Miracles of Faith Ministries in 2010. We were able to accomplish a lot because of your prayers and help. That gives you a very important part in all we do. We love you. God bless you, each and everyone, all through the coming year!

Yours in Jesus,

Bro. Jimmy Mangrum
 

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Teenager on Mission Trip:

"Dear Miracles of Faith Ministries,

My experience with you was an unbelievable, eye-opening God send. Right when my faith in something better was dying, and I thought that I would have to just try and struggle with a muddy hill for the rest of my life, I was able to join one of your missions. God took me to a "mountain". Surely, there was no greater thing than this, I thought. But then, I reached the peak, and caught a glimpse of the towering mammoths beyond! In teary realization, I knew God had many, many, more things to show me. Thank you for the opportunity to change my life, and guiding me to the path God has planned for me.

Yours Most Appreciatively, 

Jennifer K".

 (Jennifer, at the huge Gain mission warehouse in Penn. making her first
 quilt. It was just one of the many tasks she did during her week there.
 She, along with my wife and I, worked with about 1,000 other people,
 preparing and filling scores of 40 feet containers to be shipped to Haiti
 and other needy parts of the world.)

"Hope N Literacy" (Haiti Mission Director) :

"Dear Bro Jimmy,

 
Victim of tornado - (house destroyed in our area) :

"We thank you for your donation & kindness to help us that are in need. May God's blessing shine upon you, daily ----. Mrs. M."

Missionary who stayed here on our Mission Base:

"I cannot express my heartfelt gratitude sufficiently for the use of the cottage. When I left ---- the border, it was strictly by faith, it was strictly by faith. (In the cottage) I was able to get a good hot bath, fix food, and stay cool and rested. To say "Thanks" is not enough, but it's all I have. May the Lord richly bless you for extending God's love to help in a time of need.  

Love and Prayers,

Bro. Don."

                              ____________________________________________

To our friends in Puerto Rico, we want you to know we are indeed praying about the loss of jobs there due to the airline closing.  May you be encouraged with this scripture, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus” Philippians 4:19.

Haiti:
            Thank you for praying about the shipment of clothes to Haiti.  God has moved concerning that matter. Another group is shipping a container that was not full to Haiti.  They are allowing our shipment to be included with theirs at a fraction of the cost.  It will not cost thousands, but only hundreds of dollars now.  The delay has been turned into a blessing.  Though delayed, the needy people in Haiti will still get the much needed items.  Praise the Lord!  “All things work together for the good of them that love the Lord---.”  Again, thanks to all you who prayed.

Africa:
            The first need concerning a church building for Bro. Harvey’s congregation in Ghana West Africa is land to build on.  Bro. Harvey recently reported that the church very possibly has found available land to build on.  If indeed this proves out to be so, that will be a beginning answer to prayer.  Though Ghana is a poverty stricken country, being in the capitol city of Accra,, the land is still very expensive.  They don’t have money to buy the land, but they are moving forward by sacrificing every thing they can, and believing God is able to multiply their seemingly meager efforts.  God’s people are special where ever you find them in the world!  Please continue to hold them up in prayer about this important need.

Mexico:
            Bro. Gume and cooperating churches are excitedly moving ahead with plans for their big Youth Camp Crusade in El Limon, Tamps in July.  We have been blessed to help them some with preparatory expenses, and hope to help them more.  We put them in contact with someone they have chosen to be their main speaker.  He is Bro. Pepe, a young pastor, and the president of the Mexican ministry organization Bro. Wall founded down there.  Bro. Pepe is humble, very wise for his age, and full of the Holy Ghost.  Pray for all the diligent workers involved in the Youth Camp and their needs as they progress with this great project for Jesus.  Most of them are second generation results of mission work that we and other missionaries did years ago among their parents and leaders.  The glory belongs to God!

Personal Needs:
            Thank you for praying for us too, so we could be able to continue the work of the Lord.  Our pressing needs were wondrously met for that time.  Now, of course, others have arisen.  So, please keep those wonderful prayers going for us!  We love you.

Brother Jimmy Mangrum 

Ruth Writes:

                Greetings Beloved Friends and Family,  It’s truly been a dramatic item of “change” since our last writing in October, 2008.  We now have a liberal president with all his like minded staff, cabinet, and majority of  U. S. congressmen.  Christian ministry, right to life for the unborn, and freedom of speech are all greatly challenged and endangered.  Even now there are those who are trying to push an agenda to force Christian radio stations and conservative talk shows to allow the un-Christian opposing views of issues and other matters to be presented with equal time!
               
                We spent Thanksgiving Day with all our kids and grand's in Denton, TX.  On the way out, we stopped in Jackson, MS to participate in a MADD MS news conference at the Jackson Police Headquarters.  Our State Executive Director, Patricia Raymond, asked Jimmy to be one of the speakers, and the meeting went well.  From there, we continued on to TX and enjoyed seeing and being with all the kids a few days.

                In early December we took our flat bed trailer loaded with clothing from Cleveland, MS to south Florida; to be sent on from there to Haiti.  We stopped three places along the way and spent the night with friends.  In Orlando, we left part of the load of clothing with a former Haitian brother.  It is our understanding that that portion of the load is already in Haiti.  Praise the Lord!  We delivered the rest of the load to West Palm Beach to another former Haitian brother who was gathering a container load of items to send to Haiti.  We were recently told by the Pastor in Haiti that was to receive and distribute the items there that the import fee alone on the container has risen to an unbelievable $4,000!  That’s not counting the almost $4,000 for shipping.  That part of the project has been put on hold.  Please pray fervently about it.  The poor people in Haiti still desperately need the items.  They have in no way recovered from the hurricanes Gustav and Ike, besides the continual extreme poverty of the country.

                Tim came home from Texas to MS in December.  We met him and two of his children in Tunica where with all had a good visit with my mother, who is now in the nursing home there.  We stopped by Bro. Umberger’s church in Senatobia where the Weavers met with us.  Tim used his photography skills to make a picture of us for our 2009 calendar.  If you still don’t have one, but would like to, please let us know.  In Oxford, Tim helped our web host to upgrade our ministry web site.

                We were happy in January when our good long time friend and supporter Bro. Schamel, felt to get baptized in water in Jesus’ name.  We went to his church in Caledonia where the Mitchell’s, some other good long time friends of ours, pastor.  Together Bro. Mitchell and my husband baptized Bro. Schamel. and a young soldier.  We all were excited and happy, and we had fellowship with the Mitchell's after service.
                Also in January, we were again in our Capitol Building in Jackson twice for MADD.  The first time we were with our State Executive Director lobbying our lawmakers to support efforts to have all DUI offenders in MS install an Ignition Interlock System in their cars.  This is to help prevent them from driving the car when they are intoxicated.  The second time we were with our State Director and our National President for a press conference.  There were a lot of other MADD supporters present, as well as several law enforcement officers, officials, and media companies.

                In February, we made our first mission trip back to Mexico in more than two years.  For months my husband had been feeling he needed to go to Mexico again, and especially to make contact with elderly Pastor Idene in Xilitla, S.L.P.  With the health problems I had to deal with, he just didn’t want to leave me alone while he was gone.  The alternative was for me to go with him; but he didn't’t know if that would be a good idea either.  It was hard for me personally to decide to go.  I am happy to report I received a cancer free report after a pet scan in January, PTL!  But, I knew my strength was still up and down often.  I still have serious physical struggles with fibromyalgia and osteoarhritis which prevent me from even getting out of bed at times.  I had struggles thinking about diseases that affected me for years when we lived in Mexico; especially amoebas, which can be deadly.  Then, there was the often harassing “border crossing’, many incompetent drivers and conditions of some roads we would be on, etc.  I had a lot of praying to do!
               
                We had been invited to a missionary conference in a church in Denham Springs, LA.  We decided to go that far and be open to the Lord about what to do from there.  You can read about the difficulties we had getting there in my husband’s report under the heading “Jimmy Writes”. 
                The mission conference was different, but good.  Pastor Arnold and wife, and all the people of the church, were so hard working and kind to accommodate us very well. We visited our good friends at the church in Walker where we had parked the trailer back during my chelation therapy.  Jimmy preached for them Sunday night, and they blessed us with a missionary offering.  Monday, we felt to go on as far as the border.

                                              


                At Bro. High’s “Flame of Truth” Mission Base near the Mexican border, we parked right beside Bro. and Sis. Wall’s motor home.  That’s where they stay when on state side. We were all glad to see each other!  While there, we were able to get the Walls together with two other missionaries we know in the area who have warehouses and a ministry of helps; Bro. Richards in McAllen, and Sis. McCarver near Mission, TX.  That was an immediate blessing for all their ministries to be able to do more.  Also, our ministry was blessed to be able to give an offering to the Walls and Sis. McCarver.  From Sis. McCarverr’s warehouse, we were given several items to give out in Mexico, including boxes of “special candy rolls”.  Hundreds of kids (and some adults) were delighted as we later gave them out to churches and one orphanage.  They consisted of empty toilet paper rolls filled with mixed hard candies and wrapped with colorful gift paper.  They were special too, because a dear sister in Florida who was one hundred years old prepared and sent them!  Let us never say we are too old to do something for missions.

                Finally, it was time to decide.  As Jimmy and I prayed the Lord spoke to my spirit, “Rise up my daughter in faith and I’ll go with you wherever you go.”  Praise the Lord, that was enough for me!  We left the trailer there and headed for the border.
                We finally got through the rigors, delays, and expenses, of “the border crossing”.  As we traveled on down toward Xilitla, we stopped in El Limon, Tamps. and visited with  Pastor Gume and family.  They have been close friends for many years.  Bro. Gume went with us on to Xilitla, where he was tremendous help in many ways. 

                We made the most dreaded part of the trip (for me) the day after we arrived at a little rugged mountain hotel in Xilitla.  We went to Tlaletla, where Bro. Idene lives.  I was very pleasantly surprised to find the road had been paved part of the way, and was almost ready to pave on up to Tlaletla and beyond!  It was still narrow, with hair pin curves, but so much smoother and better.
                The saints in Tlaletla didn't know we were coming, and were very surprised and excited to see us!  We were surprised to find that Sis. Maria, Bro. Idene’s wife, was in the hospital in Valles with heart trouble; but she was coming home that day.  In fact, she arrived in an ambulance while we were still there.  She was weak, but was strengthened as we prayed for her.  We all had a wonderful “family reunion” as we visited and planned the service for the next day, Sunday.
                Word spread that we were to be at the service the next morning, and the people came with much excitement!  Even our dear Sis. Maria felt like attending.  Her daughter, Sis. Belli, (pronounced Bayee) was the main reason I personally had to go to Mexico.  She prayed for over a year, along with her family and the church, for my health and healing.  She constantly sent us E-mails, always expecting to see me at her home and in her church again soon.  Our “brown skinned daughter”, as she calls herself, never gave up;  and I made the trip successfully.  To some of the people in Mexico, and especially Sis. Belli, it seemed I’d come back from the dead!  They seemed to be held in awe and had an extra reverence or honor for me.  The glory is God’s, however.  He answered their prayers, and ours, and  yours.

                The service was glorious!  My husband said it was a “triple header.”  Bro. Gume preached, then I testified and gave scriptures that had helped me on my cancer journey, and Jimmy preached last.  During the conclusion of the service, seven people of different ages came to the Lord, some crying and trembling!  Others came rededicating their lives, and some for healing.  The altar was full.  To God be the glory!     

               
Jimmy Writes:

Our trip to Mexico in February was a continual series of Trials and Victories, from before we left until well after we returned home.
  
                                        

Trial:  Tires on our Suburban too bad to make trip, especially pulling trailer.  I planned to hook up the trailer next day, Sunday, and leave by faith anyway.  
Victory: “Has Bro. Mangrum gotten those tires yet?”  That was what my wife heard a dear sister say when she answered the phone late that Saturday afternoon.  “Not yet, “ was the answer.  “Good, my husband and I want to buy them!”  Money transfer was arranged immediately, and more was provided than just for the tires!
Trial:  Delayed packing, then battery dead Sunday afternoon when we tried to leave.  More delay.
Victory:  I was able to boost the battery and get started.  Left for McComb, MS for service.
Trial:  One of the newest tires on the travel trailer blew out about one hour down the road.  Dark, windy and cold, not sure of jack or that vehicle would start again.  Delayed again.
Victory:  Tire change was successful, and engine started!
Trial:   Missed service in McComb (and the supper afterward).  People were just leaving church.
Victory:  Pastor not only understanding, but compassionate!  Helped me find good deals on battery and tire next day.  I bought them with left over money from Suburban tires.
Trial:  Ruth got to where she could barely walk next day, chiropractor prescribed supplements, but recommended emergency room to check for possibility of blood clots.
Victory:  No blood clots!  Took supplements recommended and began to recover the next day.
Trial:  Ruth praying at 4 AM felt I had turned off breaker to freezer when turning off hot water heater at home.  Had two processed deer in freezer.   Neighbor couldn’t find extra key to get in and check.
Victory:  Ruth remembered locksmith friend.  He got in , freezer was off, but he turned it back on.
Trial:  Delayed leaving next day, waiting for Ruth to feel like travel and taking care of business matters.  People just leaving first service of convention when we arrived at church in Denham Springs, LA.
Victory:  Again, that pastor also was gracious; just glad we made it, and helped park trailer.
Trial:  Ruth almost passed out in last service as music got louder, and faster, and longer.
Victory:  We moved to vestibule, sat down and prayed.  Decided not to leave when dear Mexican friend came in and preaching started soon.  Preaching good and no music afterward.  Good altar service!
Trial:  Long ride to  Mexico border made Ruth tired and weak.
Victory:  Ruth slept surprisingly well after arriving late at mission base, felt O. K. next morning.


                                                          


Trial:  Delayed and tiring border crossing and long trip to main destination of Xilitla, both tired!
Victory:  Our arrival was a tremendous boost to the people in many ways; and to us!
Trial:  Departure from Mexico at border was even more frustrating than entry had been.  Then, one hour and a half stuck in backed up traffic on international bridge, looking at American flag and What-a-Burger sign, very hungry.  What-a-Burger closed five minutes before we got there!
Victory:  Praised the Lord anyway to be on American soil again!  Found another What-a-Burger in McAllen open all night.  Went to sleep about 1:30 A. M. in our trailer in good ole U. S. A!
Trial:  Two days of strenuous travel with Ruth not able to sleep well at night.  Arrived home at midnight exhausted to find two rooms of carpet ruined by leaking , rusted out water heater.  Wall heater had come on,  melted and shorted out electric cord, throwing breaker to freezer (Ruined my two deer after all!).  Also, phone / e-mail service not working well.
Victory:  House didn’t burn down.  Ruth slept well rest of night!  Insurance helped with flooding.  God furnished new water heater (I installed it).  Finally got phone problem resolved (e-mail took longer).
Trials:  “Stack of bills” facing us.  Suburban rear end worse, spent money trying to repair, (didn’t work).  Much work needed to be done around Mission Base.  Lot of money and time putting out newsletter.
Victory:  God helped us catch up on past bills.  I’ve been able to do at least some work around the Mission Base.  An almost new rear end has been installed in our Suburban, complete with new brakes and u-joints, at no cost to us!  Also, I started a garden.
Trial:  We have serious personal needs right now.  
Victory:  We’re trusting God and we know He can do miracles as we exercise faith in His word.
               
               
                Prayer requests and Victory Reports from the Field

Haiti:  Still be praying for the poverty stricken and hurricane abused people there.  Pray about the rest of the trailer load of clothes we took to Florida to send, but the customs taxes were raised extremely high.  Also, pray for the work of the Lord there.  We know some precious Christians there, and hard workers for Jesus.

Mexico:  There’s been an awesome crusade held by Bro. Wall and some visiting state side helpers in S.L.P.  There were over 50 people baptized, the works unified, and many more blessings.  Pray for finances and helpers to do proper follow up there, and in the Wall’s other works down there.
               
Africa:  I spoke on the phone with Bro. Harvey in Ghana West Africa recently.  He is fine and God is moving “by His grace” in the church.  They still need a building to worship in.  They have been renting unsuitable places for many years.  One of them didn’t even have walls.  They need a lot to build a suitable building that will accommodate six to eight hundred people.  Even though they are in a poverty stricken country, pray with us that God will help them.  He is able!

Russia:  A young preacher and his brother were recently here on the Mission Base with us from Russia.  They blessed and were enjoyed by the congregations as they ministered in area churches.  They brought a report from their church and shared their vision for Jesus in Russia.

Mexico:  We are assisting in planning and setting up a super Youth Camp crusade in El Limon, Tamps. Mexico in July.  Bro. Gume’s church and others in the area will be the chief sponsors.  They always have a great move of God in the Youth Camp services, and they are all very excited about this one.  Pray God add many souls to the kingdom, and revive any that need it!