LINC - Tarrant County - Rev. Ed Auger

Mentoring of Ethnic Leaders
Vicar Wichieng Wetnyangran has completed the 14th of 15 study courses of the Ethnic Immigrant Institute of Theology (EIIT) leading to ordination as a pastor of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. We congratulate Wichieng on his steady progress toward the goal of becoming a servant of the Message of God. Wichieng will be a member of the first EIIT graduating class in May 2007.

Manos Cariñosas / "Caring Hands" Mission
A strong witness of the Message of God in action was received by over 700 people in Somoto, Nicaragua during the annual Dental, Medical, and Optical Servant Event, June 10-18, 2006. The enthusiastic group of 29 men and women worked together with local Christians to bring compassionate care to many in need. Manos Cariñosas celebrated its 16th consecutive year of mission ministry in Latin America and continues to enjoy a dynamic partnership with La Misión Cristiana en Nicaragua, a church-planting ministry supported by Lutheran Church-Canada. Prayer and planning for the 2007 mission trip is underway. We thank the servant event participants for their faithful service and all who support this mission effort with prayers and gifts.

Recovery Ministry
Leticia Pierce, Coordinator for Recovery Ministry (Spanish-speaking), was honored as a recipient of the Jefferson Award for Public Service in special ceremonies which took place in Washington, D.C., June 19-21, 2006. In 1972, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, U.S. Senator Robert Taft, Jr. and Sam Beard founded the American Institute for Public Service, a 501 (c)(3) public foundation, to establish a Nobel Prize for public and community service - The Jefferson Awards for Public Service. Awards are presented at the national and local ("unsung heroes") levels. By honoring the Jefferson Awards recipients, the American Institute for Public Service seeks to inspire others to become involved in community and public service.

Leticia was presented her award certificate by Senator John Cornyn, Texas, in Senate chambers together with other award winners and their respective senators. A gala banquet hosted by the Jefferson Awards at Washington Union Station was attended by others recognized for their accomplishments in the public sector, including, Ellen Burstyn, Academy Award winning actress and Teresa Heinz Kerry, Philanthropist. Peyton Manning, NFL Indianapolis Colts, was one of 5 National Award winners and keynote speaker for the banquet.

The Message of God is at work through Leticia as she shares her strength and hope leading others in a healing journey through the fellowship of Christ-centered, Bible-based recovery. We are honored to enjoy ministry partnership with Leticia and congratulate her for this prestigious award.

Church Planting - Cristo Rompió Las Cadenas Iglesia Luterana
The Message of God is continually proclaimed in English and Spanish at 1500 Circle Park Blvd. Bilingual Worship and Bible study attendance has grown to 30-40 in one year. Three youth confirmations were celebrated on Mothers' Day. Over 60 children attended the bilingual Vacation Bible School "¡Fiesta!" during the week of June 26-30. ¡Mil gracias! - special thanks to Peace Lutheran Church, Hurst, for decorations and supplies for our VBS. In addition to daily Bible stories, singing, crafts, and snacks, participants learned traditional Mexican folk dance from students and volunteers of our community partner, Danza Cultural.

CRLC enjoys resident community partnership with the Volunteer Center of North Texas, Near Northside Partners Council, Tarrant County Juvenile Services, Danza Cultural, Fort Worth ISD ESL classes for adults, and CAPA - Fort Worth Police Department Clergy and Police Alliance. These combined community outreach efforts impact the lives of hundreds of individuals and families in Northside Fort Worth