The end of a thing can only mean a new beginning...

As some of you may or may not know, I was appointed as a Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC) missionary to work with Next Level International (NLI) within their Leadership Training Department. In mid-February of this year, I received a phone call from the individual who recruited me. In that phone call he informed me that NLI was undergoing some major changes in terms of their goals. This required some substantial restructuring. My department, in particular, seemed to receive some of the larger changes. The missionary who requested I come and work with him, and who was also the head of the Leadership Development Department, was affected by the restructuring, and has since moved on from NLI. As a result, the ministry opportunity that he created for me was ultimately affected by this change, and I will not be working with NLI at least for the present time. Since this occurred, I have been in the process of getting more information from NLI concerning these events and talking with key leaders at the PAOC head office in order to tie up any lose ends related to this matter. This is why you have not received any news about this until now.

Although it seems, at least for the foreseeable future, that I will not be doing missions in a long-term capacity overseas, I do still plan on getting involved where I can. In June 2008, I will be returning to my beloved Ukraine for two weeks inorder to return to where my heart is truly at: orphanage work. I will be going with a team of 6 people on behalf of a wonderful non-profit Christian organization called Bearers of Love International (http://www.bearersoflove.org/). Their goal is to provide for the financial and practical needs of orphans, the homeless, and handicapped of Ukraine. It is with this organization that I received my first taste of Ukraine in 2006. I have not been able to forget it since and it has deeply impacted my life and engrained itself in my heart. I am praying to have a greater implication in this country in the future.

At the current moment, I am working as a substitute teacher and at my church’s office as a part time receptionist. I am praying for a full time teaching contract come the fall, and look forward to knowing God more as I digest all that I have learned and experienced in this last year and a half.

It touches my heart so deeply when I think of the time you have spent praying for me and the finances you have invested in me. As a young woman, who felt led to step out in faith for God, I am truly humbled by the great show of belief, love and support that came from you for me. Please know that my not going overseas was not of my own choosing. I feel as though the rug was pulled out from underneath me so to speak. I feel it wise and prudent of me to re-evaluate where I am at right now, not make any rash decisions and simply BREATHE. Whatever my next move is I want to know that it is God who is leading me to do it, and not simply my own efforts trying to mend this situation.

I am so grateful for your financial commitment. Your gifts have ensured that my expenses during the fundraising term were cared for and the costs related to my upcoming trip to the Ukraine this summer are covered. Thank you for your sacrifice and support. It is important that you contact Charlene Mitchell (cmmitchell@paoc.org) in the Missions Department of The Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada IF you arranged monthly pre-authorized donations towards my budget and request that they be stopped. You can email Charlene or call her at 1.905.542.7400.

At the moment, I am projecting a small surplus in my missionary account. I will be consulting with my leaders at PAOC to ensure the remaining funds are distributed fairly.

Once again, thank you so very much. I trust we can stay in touch because I do still believe that our meeting was strategic and Kingdom led. Until we talk again, may God richly grow and challenge you in your faith so that you may be a greater and more effective witness for Jesus tomorrow than you are today!

I know not, but You do Lord....

HI EVERYONE!!

Man has it ever been a while since I last wrote you all here! Life certainly becomes an interesting journey when we let God take the wheel and lead the way! I recently had a scripture verse come to my rememberance, and it caused me to think. Has that ever happened to you? As a result I wrote down a few thoughts related to this verse. Hope it sparks something in you!

“Many are the plans in a man's heart, but it is the LORD's purpose that prevails.”

Proverbs 19:21

Our lives are never a “3 step” easy plan, but they’re definitely worth the journey. Like any good tour through uncharted territory, a guide is essential. Trusting and believing the information and facts that the guide shares with you is also a crucial part of enjoying and getting the most out of your tour through the new and unknown. If ever you get lost or are unsure about what to do, your guide is the best person to consult in order to get informed, helpful advice and directions.

Unfortunately, all too often in life, we face decisions and situations that confront us like road blocks or unexpected turns, and we inevitably stand there dumbfounded, surprised and perhaps even bewildered. We don’t know what to do with these unforeseen circumstances and get frustrated because they detract and take away from the plans we had and the course we had set ourselves on. We wish we had a guide to steer us through the mess because our sunny, picture perfect plans seem dashed. Indeed, many are the plans in a man or woman’s heart. We can plan and organize and dream and prepare all we want, but for all our good intentions and efforts, we cannot guarantee that any of it will come to pass. A lack of a guarantee is perhaps why taking risks is such a hard thing to do.

As Christians, stepping out in faith has the potential to be as equally hard, if it were not for God’s faithfulness and all knowingness through it all. There are times in our lives where we could have sworn that we were in the heart and centre of God’s will, and yet despite that, the end destination we were focused on and the things we desired to receive and experience never materialized. Times like this are delicate because, if handled and processed improperly, have the potential to kill our dreams, dash our hopes and send us spiralling into a vortex of doubt, anger and despair.

Even at the most secure and routine times in our lives there are no guarantees. Things can fall apart and unravel in a second. A lot can change in a day, for better or worse. Ecclesiastes 6:12 says, “In the few days of our meaningless lives, who knows how our days can best be spent? Our lives are like a shadow. Who can tell what will happen on this earth after we are gone?” That statement is enough to make me realize that I need to and want to make the days I have count. I need to be on the best path for me at this point in my life.

WHO KNOWS HOW OUR DAYS CAN BEST BE SPENT? Duh…GOD! I have been asking God, “What is your purpose here in my life? Tell me what it is so that we can cut to the chase and just get to the point.” I don’t want to try my own suggestions and waste time when I could just ask God what he wants and what is best and get to the point of my life. Some would think that is being narrow minded or even mindless, but I have come to learn that I don’t always know what is best for me and I need God’s guidance and understanding to lead me forward. It doesn’t mean that I am a mindless robot that just walks around wherever God points me. He can show me the right and most profitable way, but I ULTIMATELY HAVE THE DECISION TO FOLLOW IT OR NOT. I personally think it would be pure foolishness not to follow God’s guiding and leading. He honestly knows best and I am wanting to trust him with all I am.

Matthew 11:19 and Luke 7:35 both make mention of the reality and powerful truth that as we are lead by God’s wisdom, no matter how unconventional or strange it may seem, what results from it will speak for itself. Wisdom is shown to be right by the lives of those who live it and by what results from it. I may make certain decisions that seem strange, but I don’t mind doing so if I am being lead by God’s guidance and his wisdom. With time my decision to do so will yield results that will speak for themselves and prove for themselves that the decision I made to walk in God’s wisdom was the right one.

It’s amazing how quickly things change. It’s amazing how even when you are in God’s will and heading in the direction you sense Him leading you, things can change 180 degrees and you’re left wondering why you headed down your previous path to begin with. The funny thing is that, as far as I know, I was not in the wrong in terms of the direction I was heading into and the things I chose to pursue or let go of this past year. There has been a lot of good that has come out of it. God had his purpose for leading me in this way. It was a means to an end that I could not see on my own.

The way God works is fascinating and His sequence of things is sometimes unfathomable. Isaiah 55:8-11(MSG version) says this:
“I don't think the way you think. The way you work isn't the way I work. For as the sky soars high above earth, so the way I work surpasses the way you work, and the way I think is beyond the way you think. Just as rain and snow descend from the skies and don't go back until they've watered the earth, doing their work of making things grow and blossom, producing seed for farmers and food for the hungry, so will the words that come out of my mouth not come back empty-handed. They'll do the work I sent them to do, they'll complete the assignment I gave them.”

Within this scripture there is proof and reassurance of the fact that there is fruit in what I have done, been, and accomplished for the sake of God’s kingdom in this last year. I can’t understand the latest turn of events; they don’t make sense from a human stand point. Yet I stand determined nonetheless, knowing in His good timing God will do something great and help me fulfill my call. In the meantime I must trust, not always understanding or knowing why, but remembering and clinging to the truth that ALL THINGS (good and bad!!) work for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose (Romans 8:28).

SO… once again LORD my question to You is this, “What is your purpose God? What is it that you need from me? What is it that you want to prevail?” At times, there may seem like there is no rhyme or reason for the latest turn of events. Life is certainly unpredictable, but I thank God so much for being there for me and being my most amazing, loving and knowledgeable guide ever! I cannot understand anything that is happening Jesus, but I trust you. In some strange, eyes of faith way, I can see that something is working itself through in the course of these events. I am learning to grow and trust you through all this. I am learning to walk by faith and not sight and that is so cool! “It's what we trust in but don't yet see that keeps us going. Do you suppose a few ruts in the road or rocks in the path are going to stop us?” (2 Corinthians 5:7-8 MSG)

A Calmer Frame of Mind....

As of late, it has truely beem a time of pacing myself, breathing deep and enjoying where I am and where I am coming from. Being in Amqui, Quebec for five days certainly helped to put me in a calmer frame of mind. While I may not be gone yet, whatever has been lacking in money is made up for in character building experinces and life lessons along this journey.


One thing I am learning is that this whole process and journey is not about the money. Every group I have spoken at, every person I have met, every chance I have had to share my heart for Europe, to share Christ's hope and purpose with people.... all these things have ultimately not been done or come around for solely a financial windfall (at least not in its entirety). God encouraged my heart the other day that any of this "waiting around before I leave" time has not been because there was a lack of money. This whole proces has not been about money, but rather my character, integrity and maturity as a Christian.



I am learning as I go, that God has a way of changing us and smartening us up as we walk more fully in His direction for our lives (Romans 8:28). I have learned so much in the way of patience, faith, and many other areas of my mind and life from experiencing all I have since I first embarked on this path one year ago.



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On another note, I spent 5 days last week (Jan 17-21) in Amqui, Quebec. For those of you who don't know where it is rest assured that you are not the only one. I too was unfamiliar with it, or the fact that it takes a 9-10 hour long bus ride to get there! But the quiet time in the bus was a great way to reposition my mind and rest my body.

I had the chance to speak at a youth rally out there and then to preach on the Sunday morning. I am trusting God that He used my life and the words He gave me to challenge and inspire a lot of them. We need to be shakin out of our everyday thinking and move in the extraordianry! God blessed me and my budget through these people's generosity and I am truely thankful!

I am still looking for monthly sponsors to help me make it out to Eastern Europe and see lives transformed and living for God's purposes! Can you help me get there. Even a small gift of $50 per month (tax receiptable) can help make the difference in my budget to help me get there!

Below are a list of different events that I am speaking at in the next few weeks. If you are able to I would love to have you come out and be a part of it!

• January 25th.... Youth rally in Drummondville, QC 7:30 pm 284 ST MARCELDRUMMONDVILLE, QC (819) 474-7350
  
  
• January 27.... Evangel Church service....9am & 11am ..... 1235 Lambert-Closse MTL



• January 31.... Trinity Church Women's Gathering.... 7 pm.... 7780 Champlain Blvd Lasalle



• February 9.... ConneXion... 6:30 pm....2152 St.Catherine O, MTL... I'm speaking on "Kicking the Prodigal Mindset...Running toward Maturity"



• February 9....Women of Action Conference... 2152 St.Catherine O... 10 am-12:30pm


• February 15.... Youth group in Drummondville...DETAILS TO COME....

Getting over being a "Know-It-All" . . .

Sometimes the things you need to hear the most come from places you least expect, and from people you're not expecting God to use to speak to you. Just last night I was at a prayer meeting for ConneXion, the new church plant that my home church has helped to launch (check out the link to their website on my main page). This coming Saturday will mark the one year anniversary of ConneXion, and so we decided to take the time to pray for God 's direction for this brand new year.

One thing I find difficult, is when you want to pray for something or someone, but you can't seem to do it right cause your mind and /or heart is preoccupied with something else. In my case, my heart and mind can, from time to time, wander and dwell on the financial pressures and questions that arise from my moving overseas. I don't wake up in the middle of the night in a cold sweat over it, but it overshadows my thoughts sometimes more than I would care to admit. Beacuse of this, I struggle to whole heartedly give my mind and heart over to God in prayer.

Getting back to the point of this story (LOL!!), last night at the prayer meeting, we all took the time to be silent before God and listen out for what He would want to tell us. One young woman who was there with us said she sensed the Lord speak a word of encouragement or a reminder into her heart for all of us. By clicking on the video below, you can hear what she shared with us from God's heart.

Personally, I was most struck by the line that said, "I know that you think you know, but really you don't need to worry." I will be honest... Sometimes I can be a real "Little Miss Know-It -All" whether or not you may have ever noticed. I struggle with that mentality, especially when it comes to things that I have heard dozens of times, or things that once made such sense to me, but have lost their meaning over the years.

Throughout this whole transition time and process of moving into missions, I have told myself that God is sovreign and will make it all happen. One of the things most frequently told to me by others is that "God will provide". I'm not trying to be rude, but sometimes I just want to tell people to shut up...like I haven't heard that one fifty million times before! Is saying that going to help me get to where I am going faster? Is it going to put more cash into my budget so that I can finally leave? No!

HOWEVER, contrary to what my impatient and "know-it-all" flesh would like to think, hearing that God will provide IS going to help me get there. It might not physically get me overseas as quickly as I would like, but it is going to remind to get back to a place in my spirit where nothing is impossible for God! It WILL bring me to a place where I am reminded that God is in control and no matter what things look like now, I DON'T HAVE TO WORRY!.

So as much as I think I know.....I really don't. And so thank you to all of you who continue to encourage me along thins tiresome but exciting journey into the heart of God's will for me. I am never going to need to stop hearing from you all, but especially from God. May I encourage you all to not hesitate to speak into someone's life if you sense that God is wanting to tell them something. HOWEVER, JUST MAKE SURE IT'S GOD AND NOT YOUR OWN OPINION OR TWO CENTS!!

Please continue to keep me in your prayers. I am not sure of all the details as of yet, but it looks like I am off to Gaspe next weekend (Jan 17-21) and then to Drummondville (Jan 25-26). Please pray along with me that God would use my life powerfully to impact many young lives to live for Him and His kingdom, and that monthly financial supporters would come from encounetrs in these parts of Quebec. Please pray also that God grant me favor and open doors in other parts of this country for monthly sponsorship.

Thank you all so, so much!!! I couldn't do this without God and you!! :))

Being a Leader...

Hebrews 12:12-13

“So take a new grip with your tired hands and stand firm on your shaky legs. Mark out a straight path for your feet. Then those who follow you, though they are weak and lame, will not stumble and fall but will become strong.”

What a privilege it is to be a leader! That is something I think of every now and then. To have the ability to shape and mold young lives for God’s purpose and for His acclaim. However, it isn’t always easy, as one of Matt Janes’ messages reminded me. We easily can get “tired hands” and “shaky feet” doing what we do (along with fifty other things on our plates!). But one thing God has encouraged my heart about is to take a new grip…whether it be believing God to move in young peoples' lives or anything else that we’ve been becoming weary in. In spite of our shakiness and tiredness God wants us to take a firm grip again on the things He’s called us to be and do in the lives of those around us and in the ministries we are a part of.

“Mark out a straight path” reminds me that we are to set a precedence for these people. In Matthew 7:14 it says, “But the gateway to life is small, and the road is narrow, and only a few ever find it.” We as leaders have to mark that straight or narrow path out in order to set the example. We have a chance to help “a few” find it by doing this! As leaders we are never free of prying eyes and influencing the young. We need to walk it in order for them to Lord willing follow it. I love the promise at the end of Hebrews 12: 12-13.

The whole point of being a leader, in God's service, is to see the Lord strengthen, challenge and grow those we mentor and lead. If we stand in God’s strength, helping each other to stand, and if we mark out and walk in that straight path, then God PROMISES that He WILL make strong those who are weak and lame (spiritually or otherwise, those who follow us, those who we shepherd. ISN’T THAT THE WHOLE REASON WE ARE DOING WITH THEM WHAT WE ARE DOING?? To see them grow strong not in our strength, but in God’s mighty POWER?! Thank you for being with me through this journey. God is doing great things, and I’m praying that He continue to help us and compel us to stand in the gap for those around us. They are our friends, family, co-workers, etc, and to know them and serve them is an amazing privelege!!

Young men from a village orphanage in Ukraine. They are the future leaders of Europe.

Burning with a passion...

Passion is an extraordinary thing. Pair it with selflessness and amazing things can happen. I just finished watching the movie "Amazing Grace" (which I HIGHLY recommend renting and purchasing) and was left with an awesome sense of passion and the need to make an impact for something that matters. It reinforced the fact that I want to live beyond myself. I want my life to count for something more than me.

The movie essentially chronicles a 20 year period in the life of William Wilberforce, who had a personal and powerful relationship with God, and who persevered many obstacles inorder to abolish slavery in his country in the 1800's. What was extraordinary about this man is two fold. Number one, he knew what his giftings and passions were, so he combined them and used them not only to honor God but to make a life chaging difference in many others' lives. Number two, he was relentless in pursuing that which he knew was his purpose and passion in life. He spent most of his adult life fighting to free slaves. It wasn't until 3 days before his death that this became a reality! Imagine having that much persistence and passion right up until the end!

I couldn't help but be reduced to tears by the end of it because, at least for me, there is nothing more compelling and powerful then to witness someone live powerfully for God, in a way that honors Him, while also leaving an incredibly life changing legacy behind you.

With regard to the issue of slavery, Wilberforce once said, "Having heard all of this you may choose to look the other way... but you can never say again that you did not know." In Christ, we have the power to help empower and change lives not just on a practical and physical level, but also on a deeper and more meaningful eternal level. Make every day you live a time where you can leave God's hand print on society. Make every moment possible one that counts for eternity's sake. That way, those you have come in contact with will have seen or heard the truth and can never say they did not know.

I want to burn with a passion for something that will transform lives and last beyond me. I want to burn with a passion for Christ that out lives my time on this Earth and that rocks the very foundations of people's lives.

That is my aim and that is my heart in going to work in Eastern Europe. Could you find it within yourself to do what you can and to do what it takes to help get me there so that I can, like William Wilberforce, undoubtedly change lives for the better and for eternity's sake?!

Where's the "Easy Button"??

I'd be lying if I said I haven't been frustrated and stressed and angry along the way with this whole undertaking. Of course I could put on a happy face and say something like "All is well with my soul", but I would by lying. I trust God and I continue to because He truely is my only hope and the source of all that I am. I just feel the need to be candid with all of you and let you know that no matter who we are or what we do, we're still human and because of this we are prone to bouts of frustration and fear or discouragement no matter how much faith we have. It just sometimes feels like too much and I wish there really was an "Easy Button" I could push and fast forward to the point in time where I am living the dream.

The great and faithful thing about God is that He still hears us and sees us in the midst of these bouts of frustration and comes along in the little things and in the unexpected things to reassure us and show Himself strong. Just yesterday, I was speaking at a youth group in Riviere des Prairies called Jeunesse en Action (check out their Facebook page). God used this group to encourage and reassure me.

Toward the end of the evening, the group took the time to pray for me. As they gathered around me and started to pray, it felt like their words and petitions to God for me were a soothing ointment to my tired and strained body and spirit. Then they all began to sing "God you are there". As they sang, I felt like they were singing for me. They were speaking out what my spirit wanted to say and affirm but was too tired to do. I was weary but God used them to help pick me up and send me forward. Afterward, many of them came up to me to offer more words of encouragement and even inquiries on how to help me financially. They are a phenomenal group who are truely being led by God's Spirit and are sensitive to His leading. Their leaders (Mathieu and Sophie Briand) are a great and beautiful young couple who are richly gifted and humble. They were very warm and inviting and are helping to raise up a great group of young people who are gonna change the world around them for God's glory! I thank them all so much!! :))

SO... in the end, who needs an "Easy Button" when God provides you with such great and caring people like those at Jeunesse en Action! Weary moments are sometimes inevitable and when they come they're not fun. But it is simply amazing to see how God comes through each time and infuses us in the exact ways we need, inorder to help us keep going forward for Him.

Until next time, that's where things are at and where they're headed. Continue to keep me in prayer and all those in Eastern Europe who are still without hope. Blessings on you guys and love you!!

Slowing down, but getting there...

Hey everyone!

Its been a while since I last wrote something.Needless to say that is because things have been so insanely BUSY for me. Between teaching full time in a high school, speaking to different groups on the weekend, and being a part of the huge Christmas production at my church I have bitten off almost more than I can chew! But thankfully things are quieting down now. Right now I am just wanting to relax and enjoy my time with my family and friends before I leave.

Yesterday, I celebrated my 25th birthday. It was quite a surprise and I was very thankful to see all my friends there to support me and show their love. I got some wonderful cards with some very sweet and heart felt messages. The funniest gift was a massive Toblerone chocolate that was given to me by an old friend. We have had an ongoing joke that involves a Toblerone, so getting this massive one was hilarious! Check out the video to see how big it was!

I also received some generous monetary donations which are going toward my budget for the work I am doing in Eastern Europe. Recently, I received some news about my budget from the organztion that is sending me overseas. I was told that in order for me to leave I need to raise at least 75% of my total budget. Also, this 75% must be in the form of monthly donations.

So here are things as they stand now:

Total budget for the year: ~$46,000

75% of Total budget: ~$34,000

Amount I have so far in monthly support: ~$15,000

SO...how can you help? Good question! By having roughly 30 more individuals or groups sponsoring me for $50 per month or more I will hit that 75% mark pretty quick. In my last post (dated October 30th 2007) I outlined how you could donate to me. I had anticipated leaving by January 2008, but unless more people sacrificially step up to the plate for me and help by committing what they can monthly, my mission has to be put onhold for a while.

Would you please consider how you could help me make my dream and call a reality. I want this so bad but I can't do it without all of you! You can help make this happen today for me! Please contact me to let me know.

I want to wish everyone who visits this site an awesome Christmas season. Thank God for all of you who are supporing me in everyway you possibly can, whether it be through prayer, words of encouragement, money or your love! I need it all and thank you all so very very much!!!

How You Can Donate...

So now that you know who I am, what I am about and where I am going would you consider how you might partner with me financially so that this dream and call of mine can finally become a reality?

I should mention that monthly partnership is ideally what I am praying for because it gives my ministry longevity and I can have peace of mind because I know there are faithful people like yourself to help me each month. Monthly support doesn’t mean you have to give exorbitant amounts.

My goal is to find people who can give $50 on a monthly basis. However, if you feel lead to give more, or if you feel you can only give less than that at this moment, that is also greatly appreciated. Adjustments can be made. I am flexible! LOL. One time donations are also greatly appreciated. I should also mention that all donations are tax receiptable.

Would you please prayerfully consider what contribution you can make to God’s kingdom through the work He has set me to do for Him?

If you are interested in helping me, simply follow the steps below to finding my information booklet and donation form:

1. Click on the following site: http://portal.paoc.org/PAOC/missionsweb.nsf/?Open&rand=656



2. Click on "Missionaries" (left hand side bar)



3. Scroll down to my name "MROZINSKI" and click on it



4. Scroll down my page and click on "Shannon Mrozinski Missions Manifest.pdf"



5. Browse through my manifest and read about me and my work more



6. The donation form is on the last page of the manifest



7. Print it off, fill it out and mail it to the address at the top of the form.

And that is about all you have to do inorder to personally play a part in helping to make my dreams come true!

Thank you so much for expressing the love and interest you have so far in God’s will for my life. Please be sure to check out my blog regularly as it serves as a great way to keep you in the loop as to how I am doing with my missions work and the journey I am on with all this.

And feel free to get in touch with me through email if you have any questions or comments.

smrozinski@paoc.org

Moving Forward!!!

I am so excited that things are moving forward in my budget! I am reaching the 30% mark, and while for some that may not seem like much, I am ecstatic about it! I am seeing God's faithful right before my eyes! Just the other day a wonderful individual committed to supporting me monthly for the next year by giving me $75 per month starting next month!! Isn't that amazing! I am praying for more people to be so generous because if I receive more wonderful committments like that then I am well on my way to fulfilling God's call on my life toward helping to equip countless young Christian leaders in Europe! I am so excited and cannot wait to see what else God has in store!!

On November 17th, 2007, I am speaking at ConneXion at 6:30 pm (2152 St. Catherine O near Atwater metro). I will be sharing about the nature of my work in Europe and the power behind empowering and mentoring the next generation. If you are able to, please come out to hear my heart and find out more about what God is doing to reach people in Eastern Europe. Check us out at http://www.myconnexion.ca/

I also have the following opportunities to share. Feel free to come join me. . .

November 16th . . . Centre Evangelique youth group... 7:30 pm

November 17th . . . ConneXion Church .... 6:30 pm

November 23rd . . . Fabre Street youth group .... 8 pm

November 24th . . . Evangel Women's Concert of Prayer....10:00 AM

November 30th . . .Laval Christian Assembly youth group... 7:30 pm

December 2nd . . . Trinity Church Youth emphasis night . . . 6:00 pm