Spring 2010

Hello All,

Thank you all for your prayers and support these past months as we dove into the semester here at CCBC Italy.

Since our Last Gonzo Gazette: It has been a busy but blessed time. Frank has deeply enjoyed his students and their enthusiasm for the Word. As the weather increased in sunny days he had an opportunity to take his class outside to study, which the students preferred to do themselves. Although this semester went quick we enjoyed many individual times with each student as well as a group. We had times where we had them over for Saturday breakfast, café dates or just hanging out together in fellowship. This last week we ended our semester with a graduation dinner for James Mitchell. It was an occasion where we as missionaries and pastors were able to get together as a body and celebrate James’ achievements, and also fellowship with one another. The food of course was amazing to say the least as we can say about all the food here in Italy. Beyond Bible College ministry Frank has been able to fill in by teaching for some of the brothers at the other CC’s here in northern Italy who were away or busy with other work. It’s always a blessing to share God’s word!

Our Current Situation: As we had stated in previous newsletters and prayer requests this has been a time of much needed prayer. Before we left the US you all know we came to Italy on tourist visas, as we were unable to attain missionary visas before returning. As we sought the Lord we had decided to go back in faith on the return end of our tickets to Italy with hearts to serve at the Bible College and prepare for an eventual church plant. Although that was our hearts we wanted to return with no expectations but to see if God would open a door to us for long term service if that was His will. We knew full well that God could close the door. Well, we believe he may be doing just that. As we have been here these past five months we have been seeking His will and direction all the while serving and not knowing what to expect. Since arriving in Italy we have had no open door to return to the US to apply for our visas due to a lack of extra finances. Another issue we have been facing is our simple but complicated ability to stay in the country legally. When we went across the border to Croatia to get a new stamp in our passports we were doing what the Italian government asked us to, but knowing full well we would still be “technically” illegal within certain parts of the EU. We received another stamp in our passports that will carry us to the end of June, which is sufficient for the Italian government. Crossing the Croatian border again is not an option, as we would run the risk of being refused re-admittance into the EU. To us this whole situation makes us ask the question, “Is this the place God has for us to serve and if not then where?” We are still asking the Lord for what He wants and to make it VERY clear. We do know one thing, we know we have been called to the mission field and have no desire in our hearts to return to the States, we feel God has already made that clear. He has called me (Frank) to shepherd, teach His word and make disciples.

Again, we truly love Italy and have immensely enjoyed serving here with the team. But in light of our circumstances, and a continual lack of peace in regard to all these things, we are heavily leaning toward the idea that the Lord is indeed moving us on after this short time to another nation on the field. We think a lot of Paul’s journeys knowing that the Holy Spirit forbid him to go certain places, and also sent him to places where he only stayed for awhile until he completed the specific tasks for the place he was in. In light of that we know that it is not abnormal to go through this as missionaries but we do find it very frustrating sometimes... we are simply praying for God’s will in all of this!

Upcoming Event: We have a retreat with the Italian CC’s next week in Tuscany May 26-29. This past week as we’ve said our goodbyes to the students we have also begun to prepare for this retreat. Maria Cambra (wife of the director of the Bible College), myself, and Margie Stewart (missionary wife of Jim who is pastoring the church in Podova) are planning the kids portion of the retreat. We are all really excited, as God has really put it together. The facility we have rented has childcare, which gives us all a chance not to miss the sessions, but our hearts are to make sure the children get the Word as well. So during the night sessions we will be handling the kids ourselves with times of the Word and games. David Downs (missionary) and Frank and some of the other men will be helping and teaching the kids. Throughout the retreat we all will be getting fed by Jesus through Bob Caldwell , pastor of CC Boise and his wife Cathy. We look forward to what God has for us.

Thank you all for your faithfulness to co-labor with us through your prayers and encouragement. We pray that this newsletter finds you all well as you continue to serve the Lord in the spheres that He has placed you.

In His Matchless Name,

Frank & Suzie Gonzalez

PRAYER REQUEST

1. Guidance: Please join us in seeking God’s direction during this time. Our hearts are open to whatever He has for us to do and to do it wherever He sends us!

2. Bible College Students: Please remember our six students in prayer as they begin the next phases of their lives: James Mitchell; Greg Espinoza; Alex Abdallah, Rachel Woodcock; Heather Creamer & Victoria Vollmer.

3. Remaining Time in Italy: That our remaining time in Italy, however long that may be, would be well spent and fruitful.

4. Calvary Chapels in Italy: There are several CC churches and works throughout Italy. Please pray for the pastors and missionaries serving in them as well as the flocks entrusted to them: Craig Quam –CC Montebelluna & Feltre; Mark Nigro –CC Treviso; Jim Stewart –CC Padova; Brent Harrell –CC Rome; & Brian Cambra –CCBC Italy in Montebelluna.

5. Calvary Chapel Italy Conference: From May 26-29 the Calvary Chapels in Italy are joining together on the Tuscan coast for a time of fellowship, encouragement and worship. Pastor Bob Caldwell from CC Boise and his wife Cathy are coming to bless us with the word. Please pray that it would be a refreshing time for all!

6. Provision: Please pray for God’s continued provision for all our needs. We know that He is faithful to provide and we trust that He will always do so.

7. Health: Suzie’s feet are doing well but she still needs to address an issue with the bulging discs in her back. We are praying for an opportunity to go to Munich Germany where there is a spinal clinic that specializes in her condition. Pray for God to sustain us both physically in every way!

Contact & Support Info:

E-mail: Gonzosineurope4jc@gmail.com

Skype: poland4jc

If you wish to make a financial gift, please make your check payable to Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa. You may note the missionary's name on a separate envelope or note. Do not place any individual's name in the memo section of the check. The check can be put in the offering at CCCM or you can mail your check to:

Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa

3800 S. Fairview Rd., Santa Ana, CA 92704, attn: Accounting.

Missionary Accnt : Frank & Suzie Gonzalez