Rich & Patty Ter Haar are one of six couples in a PIER Group led by Don and Phyllis Coulson. Their group began as strangers about four years ago with a study of The Prayer of Jabez. As a small group they have found many ways to serve together at First Christian Church. By serving and studying together they have formed close friendships, contributed to the ministry of First and extended loving care to several people in need. Here are a few examples of the exciting adventure of service they have shared:

“We have helped a family with triplets that had major medical needs. The mother needed all kinds of help around the house.”

“At church we have washed communion trays, helped with work days and set building. Some group members regularly greet and serve communion during services. One of our group members is very talented in writing poems and sending cards to our church members who are sick.”

“Three years ago one couple from our group, Jim and Marilyn Mauldin, felt that the Lord was asking more of them and they journeyed to New Zealand to study at a Bible School and to teach the “good News” with the people there. Our group misses them a lot so we try to keep in touch with them by phone calls and ‘care packages’ of food items that they can’t get there like Mexican spices and certain kinds of candy. We feel it is a wonderful way to give back to FCC and to help our fellow Christians stay connected to our PIER Group! One day we would all like to go visit them and spend some time helping with their New Zealand ministry.”

This PIER Group feels personally connected to the mission field of New Zealand because they hear about the needs of the people and serve the missionaries they know and love.
(05/17/06)