Busy summer already! We have had a number of worship events, quincenera’s, ongoing food distributions, chiropractic outreaches, and more.  And much more coming up!  Carol has a number of worship events scheduled and as you get this newsletter, Wayne will be crossing the border yet again, but by air, as he travels to Mexico City.  From July 25th-August 1st, He will be ministering with the Living Waters team once again, as they lead another international training.  Wayne looks forward to doing this, as he has not been able to join the team since we left Kansas City 7 years ago. (YES its been 7 years believe it or not). So thank you for praying for safety for his air travel & then 2+ hour bus travel to the venue.

We have had a number of volunteers this summer so far. (Thanks to your prayers!) It has been a joy to have them come alongside and help, but also to love on our friends in TJ.  We thought we would let them share some of their experiences with you this month!

“When I first accompanied VOB to distribute food in Tijuana I was prepared for a task-oriented trip to meet the tangible needs of hungry people. However, it was evident that this ministry is even larger than serving through food distribution. VOB Ministries has opened the door for deep, loving relationships with the people of Tijuana. It was a joy to be a part of this cross-cultural friendship, by meeting their needs for food, praying with them, encouraging each other and just enjoying each other. These people are hungry for Jesus and they get to experience His great love and provision through VOB acting as His hands and feet. These outreaches allow people to develop meaningful relationships and, more importantly to have an encounter with the Father’s love for them that is transformative.”  Emily

“I have been so blessed to have the opportunity to head down to Tijuana a few times now with VOB! There are so many hungry people in that city, hungry for food and also for God, whether they realize it or not, and VOB feeds them both physically and spiritually.  What stands out to me, is the generosity and love of some of the people that VOB works with. At the biggest food distribution site on Tuesday nights, a pastor and his wife assist with a street outreach where food is passed out to around 200 people. Before we arrive with the huge truck full of food, they are already waiting and relating with the people, worshiping until the food is ready! Although they do not have much themselves, they still serve and give with great kindness. I have been challenged by this, and also blessed by the kindness they have shown me. This is the heart of God…to be so deeply caught up in Him that you overflow his love onto those around you, no matter how much or how little you have.”   Laura

“At first glance, this ministry was just like any other to me, an opportunity to serve, get my hands dirty, hopefully help a lot of people and move on with the remainder of my day.  That was before I began investing a greater amount of time with Wayne, as we delivered and shared what we had with Tijuana.  What struck me more than anything else, however, was witnessing first hand the “Compassion” component of VOB.  Not only was VOB delivering food, they were bringing hope and joy to the people of Tijuana!  I quickly became enamored with the idea that I could join more of these adventures across the border, serving and loving these people—to become friends with them and experience Heaven among believers, while sharing the love of God and bread, with some who were not saved.  I always look forward to each opportunity to help Wayne with his mission down in Tijuana, because, not only does it bring me joy, it also is a wake-up call to the desperate need for any and all help we can give down there.  So many are getting by with far less than we realize.  When they can smile and have joy with what little they have, it makes me even more thankful for all that I have, and it stays fresh in my mind every night I go to bed.  I have been given a spiritual gifting for service, as I was previously on active duty for 5 years with the US Navy, and I cannot think of a better way to use my gift from God than to go out to the nations, as an ambassador carrying bread, water, and compassion.”  Jimmy