Carlson - Missionary to Sweden

Here’s the break down:

This means that I would need just over 20 more churches or individuals at $50/month—that’s only about 10 churches at $100/month—or 5 at $200/month!

Please pray that the rest would come in quickly! How might you be able to help?

And thank you to those of you who are already faithfully sup-porting this ministry—both prayerfully and financially!

Thanks for being a blessing!

Thanks again for your prayers and encouragement! God Bless!

For Christ Alone,

Melissa Carlson
Jer. 32:27 "Behold, I am the Lord...is there any thing too hard for me?"

Extra Stuff: 

• Check out my website! www.sweden4christ.com 
•  Visit my blog anytime for more frequent updates! swedeheart.blogspot.com 
• You can find my itinerary on both my website and my blog!

February 2010- Current Support: 62%

South Dakota Travels 

"Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith: who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God."  

**The Neelys and the ministry in Jönköping

**Safety in traveling—in SD until the end of March

**My friend Jennifer in Sweden/ a friend of mine in Madison

**Support increase—how might you be able to help?

**Continued scheduling for the coming summer

**Music ministry

January 2010

A New Year for Service!

I mentioned in my last letter that I was looking into some necessary budget adjustments . This is based on my new location on the mission field, the current economy, and a change in the visa I will be applying for upon entering the country.

While the cost of living is a bit cheaper in Jönköping, I will be applying for a work visa (with the church there "sponsoring" me) rather than a typical missions visa. This means that I will now have to pay Swedish taxes (which are quite steep). Because of this, it has become necessary for me to increase the amount of support I will need in order to get to the field. My current support level is 63%, but this will probably be reduced to somewhere around 57.4%, depending on if any further support comes in before this is all finalized.

It is a little discouraging as it seems I am going backwards, but I know that God’s hand is in this, and He will take care of what is needed! In the meantime, I will continue serving in the ministry He has me in right now— the wonderful journey of deputation!

If you are interested in joining with the ministry in Sweden through financial support, please contact my mission board:

WWNTBM
PO Box 725
Kings Mountain, NC
28086

Prayer Requests

Thanks so much for your faithfulness in prayer!

May God be glorified as we serve Him in this new year!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Car lson
Jer . 32:27

November 2009

Dear Praying Friends,

Happy Thanksgiving! I trust you all have found many, many things to be thankful for this season. I am certainly rejoicing in all of God’s blessings – for His wonderful free gift of salvation, for His continual provision and protection, for His faithfulness and love in both the good times and the bad. I am also rejoicing in the many opportunities God gives for us to serve Him!

I love being right where God wants me – serving Him while continuing deputation, looking forward to the day I’ll be able to be serving Him in the country of Sweden!

I have just finished a busy season of meetings! What a blessing each has been!

This week, I will be heading down to IL to spend a couple of weeks with my grandparents. I will also be able to visit a supporting church of mine down there.

Things are looking pretty slow for December, but I have several projects that I am eager to tackle at home!

Praise the Lord for the addition of another supporting church! 11 more churches or individuals at $100/month (or 22 at $50) and I’ll be ready to head to Sweden! Please pray how you might be able to partner in this ministry!

Prayer Requests:

*Safety in traveling
*Further increase in support – praying to be able to have 100% by this next summer.
*Continued scheduling for 2010
*Further opportunities for service/evangelism while on deputation
*The Neelys in Jönköping and the ministry there
*Music writing ministry projects
*My friend Jennifer over in Göteborg (for salvation)
*Budget adjustment b/c of new location and economic situation

Thank you for your continued prayers!

October 2009

Dear Praying Friends,

During the past month or so, I have been privileged to present the ministry in Jönköping to churches in WI, IL, and MN. The meetings have been a real blessing and I thank the Lord for the opportunities He has given for me to serve Him!

I have also had some additional outreach opportunities over in Madison. I have been able to have some good contact with some homeless people there. Please pray that the seeds which have been planted would soon produce fruit.

Prayer Requests

*Safety in traveling – scheduled in MN, WI, and IL during the next month
*Further increase in support
*Continued scheduling
*Further opportunities for service/evangelism while on deputation
*The Neelys in Jönköping and the ministry there
*Music writing ministry projects
*My friend Jennifer over in Göteborg (for salvation)

Things to consider:

~Support level is currently 63%
~My book When the Rains Descend is available – to order one, either contact me or you can purchase one through amazon.com

Extra Stuff

*Please remember to check out my blog for more frequent updates and a look at my upcoming schedule
*I have calculated that I only need about 12 more churches or individuals at $100/mo in order to be fully supported! Please pray how you might be able to partner in this ministry!

I thank you all again for your faithfulness in prayer and support!

May God bless you in your service to Him!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson
Jer. 32:27

September 11, 2009

Dear Praying Friends,

I very much appreciate your faithful prayers for me while I was visiting in Sweden! I had a wonderful trip – it was such an encouragement and blessing to be back there, if only for a short time!

The purpose for my visit was quite specific. Earlier this year, through different circumstances, the opportunity presented itself for me to go and work with a small Baptist church in the city of Jönköping, Sweden. A missionary couple, Ron and Inga Neely, have been serving in Jönköping without co-workers for quite a few years now. They have been in Sweden as a family for about 30 years, and Inga is Swedish by birth. They have been a part of church planting ministries in the country, and are currently serving with Bibel Baptist Församlingen (Bible Baptist Assembly) in Jönköping. They have a wonderful ministry there involving church services, prayer meetings, Bible studies, street evangelism, etc.

Well, throughout the past few months, I have spent a great deal of time praying and seeking godly counsel in regards to what God would have me do concerning this opportunity. My trip to Sweden was primarily a chance for me to get to know the ministry and the people there.

After my visit, I am truly convinced that the Lord is opening the door for me to go and serve in this city. There is a great need and the ministry possibilities are almost endless.

I will be serving in the same capacity as I would have been in Stockholm: Bible clubs for kids (helping to expand a children’s ministry there), music ministry, women’s ministries, etc.

Overall, it is my desire to be a real help and encouragement to the Neelys and their ministry in whatever way I can!

I am very excited about joining this work!

As your partner in ministry, I would greatly appreciate your continued prayers and support in this time of transition, and I assure you that I am still very much committed to the ministry to which God has called me!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson

Jer. 32:27

Email: reachingswedenforchrist@yahoo.com

Blog: swedeheart.blogspot.com

August 18, 2009-- Prayer Request

Dear Praying Friends,

I just wanted to let you know that I'm leaving on Thursday for a quick 2 week trip over to Sweden!

I would very much appreciate your prayers for safety, etc!

I'm certainly looking forward to being able to get over there again - and this time I'll get to see Sweden with grass on the ground (Last time I was there, it was in the winter!)

Have a great day!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson
Jer. 32:27

July 2009

Well, here I am nearing the end of my eastern travels! I have one last meeting here in PA before I head back toward WI this coming Tuesday.

This past month has taken me to churches in PA, WV, and MD. The services have all been a blessing and encouragement to me! I’ve had great opportunities for ministry!

I was also able to enjoy some time with family over the 4^th of July weekend. Unfortunately, however, I also managed to step on a rusty nail, making it necessary for me to update my tetanus shot. Praise the Lord, I haven’t had any problems with the injury and my foot is quite better now!

I thank you for your faithful prayers, encouragement, and support!

It is such a blessing being partnered with you in the ministry!

Prayer Requests
*Safety in traveling back to the Midwest
*Further increase in support
*Important unspoken need
*Further opportunities for service/evangelism while on deputation
*The team in Stockholm and the ministry there
*Continued scheduling
*My friend Jennifer over in Göteborg (for salvation)
*Music writing ministry

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson
Jer. 32:27

June 2009-- Support level is currently 58.9%

Psalm 18:30 “As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him.”

This past month has been one of many miles! I served in churches in both far eastern and western PA. I also drove down to Greensboro, NC for Family Fellowship Week with my mission board. I then spent a week in Chesapeake, VA with my brother and sister-in-law. And from there I drove up to Syracuse, NY before heading back to the Pittsburgh area yesterday. I think my car is ready for a few days of rest.

But all of my meetings have gone really well and I praise the Lord for that!

In July, I have meetings in PA, WV, and MD. Then, Lord willing, I’ll be heading back toward home come the beginning of August!

I had the opportunity to visit Niagara Falls yesterday as I traveled back toward the Pittsburgh area from my meeting in Syracuse. While there, I decided to ride on the Maid of the Mist which goes down by the base of the falls. As the water roared and showered around me, I couldn’t help but think what an awesome God we serve! All of nature truly proclaims the glory of God!

Thanks for your diligence in your prayers and support! You are such a tremendous blessing to me!

Prayer Requests

*Major Unspoken Request
*Safety in traveling (currently out east)
*Further increase in support / continued scheduling needs
*Further opportunities for service/evangelism while on deputation
*The team in Stockholm and the ministry there
*Music writing ministry
*My friend Jennifer over in Göteborg (for salvation)

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson
Jer. 32:27

May 2009

Dear Praying Friends,

This past month has been quite a flurry of activity! I’ve had the opportunity to participate in a couple of different mission’s conferences as well as serve in individual meetings.

I even had the chance to do some substitute teaching in a Christian school here in the Pittsburgh area!

I also got to be “mom” for a week for my cousins – I enjoyed my time with the boys! They sure are great kids! Staying with them was definitely a good learning experience!

I’ve also been able to spend some good time in language study this month – though I can’t wait until I’ll actually be able to practice it on real Swedes!

I have also been working on some more music. Please pray that it will be used for the honor and glory of God.

As the weather gets nicer, people are out and about a lot more! This provides some great opportunities for soul-winning. Please pray that I would continue to be able to have many chances to share the gospel with people I come in contact with as I travel on deputation!

Thanks so much for your continued prayer and support! May God bless you in your service to Him!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson

Jer. 32:27

Prayer Requests

Safety in traveling (currently in PA)
Further increase in support (currently 58.2%)
Continued scheduling for the Fall (specifically November)
Further opportunities for service/evangelism while on deputation
The team in Stockholm and the ministry there
Music writing ministry
Salvation for friend Jennifer over in Goteborg 

April 2009

“If a commission by an earthly king is considered an honor, how can a commission by a Heavenly King be considered a sacrifice?" - David Livingston

Dear Praying Friends,

This past month or so of meetings has gone really well! I visited churches in IL, WI, MN and IN. Of these meetings, I had the privilege of participating in 3 different mission’s conferences! I know each of the services really challenged and encouraged my heart!

I am in the Chicago area at the moment, watching my 6 year old cousin for a few days. J We’ve been having a great time! On Saturday I’ll be heading over to IN for a Sunday service and from there, I’ll continue eastward. I’ll be in PA for all of May and parts of June. I’ll also be hitting NY, WV, MD, NC, and VA. Please pray for continued safety on the road!

Praises/Prayer Requests

*My support level is now at 56.5%! Praise the Lord! Please pray that the rest of my support would come in by the end of the year/early next year. If the Lord would allow, I would like to be able to get over to Sweden by sometime early 2010.

*I had to get some unexpected repairs done on my car and the Lord provided exactly the amount needed to cover the cost! Praise God for answered prayers!

*I was able to complete the songs I was working on for my friend. Please pray that the Lord would continue to provide opportunities to use me in music ministry.

*Please pray for me as I continue to set up meetings. I am trying to get a few more for this fall – particularly for early November.

*Also, please continue to pray for the ministry in Stockholm. Pray for the Morells and Deliches as they work with the Swedish people there.

*And please pray for my friend, Jennifer, who lives near Göteborg, Sweden. Pray that I would continue to have opportunities to share the Gospel with her.

Thank you for your prayers and support!

May you have a truly wonderful, God-honoring spring!

March 2009

I had an absolutely WONDERFUL month and a half of meetings in MN! All the services went well - and I was able to serve in a number of different ways! My saxophones got put to good use this past month as I was also able to help a couple of friends with their respective band programs (working with the sax students). I absolutely loved that opportunity! I also had opportunities to speak to kids in various Christian schools about Sweden! I always enjoy that!

I'll be home for just a couple days before heading down to Peoria, IL for a meeting on Sunday. From there I'll actually be heading back to St. Cloud, MN for a mission’s conference! Then, for the rest of the month I’ll be in WI – with meetings (including a conference) scheduled in Lodi and Union Grove.

Huge Praise!

I am thrilled to be able to report another increase in support – I am now up to 50.3%! I have finally hit that halfway point! Praise the Lord for His provision! Please pray that the rest will come in in God’s time!

As always – thanks for your faithful prayer and support!

Rejoice in the Lord………Always!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson
Jer. 32:27

**Books are still available! If interested in receiving a copy, please contact me at the email address above! Thanks!

February 2009

Dear Praying Friends,

I realize that in my last letter I mentioned that I would be switching to updates every other month. Well, I had some response back requesting that I try to continue on a monthly basis, so I’m going to do my best to do so! I will still plan on sending updates through the mail every other month, but I will attempt to get the email updates out monthly!

January was a good month. I visited churches in both Iowa and Illinois. I was also able to visit a class of second graders at a Christian School in Wisconsin. For the most part, though, my travel schedule was fairly light for the month, allowing me opportunity to get some projects done at home.

I am excited to be back on the road again, however! I am currently visiting churches in Minnesota, and I will be in this area until around the middle of March. The meetings I have had have gone really well and I praise the Lord for them! I also thank God for His protection and provision! A lot of people said I was crazy to go to MN in February, but the Lord has been watching out for me! The weather hasn’t been a problem at all! Praise the Lord!

I also have opportunity to do some musical arranging/writing for a friend of mine who is starting a musical ministry team! I am so thankful for the chance to get involved in this ministry! Please pray that all that will go well and that the Lord will be glorified in it!

I am also rejoicing in an increase of support! Another church has added me to their mission’s team, bringing my support level to 45.2%! Please pray that God will continue to provide support in His perfect timing.

Thanks again for your continued prayers and support! You are such a blessing to me!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson

*My book, When the Rains Descend, is still available! If you’re interested in purchasing a copy, you can email me or purchase one today at www.amazon.com! Further details can be found on my blog!

Many thanks to those of you who have already purchased copies! It is much appreciated!

January 2009

I trust everyone had a wonderful Christmas season! I certainly enjoyed a relaxing holiday with family and friends here in Wisconsin!

Now we’re into yet another new year – can you believe it? Have you all adjusted to putting “2009” on things instead of “2008”? That always takes me some extra concentration! J

My travel schedule is somewhat light for this month, but come February things get busy again as I head to Minnesota. My schedule is pretty well filled from Feb-end of July. I am still working on my fall calendar, but it is starting to fill up as well. Please continue to pray that I will be able to get the meetings I need.

I also wanted to let you all know that my book has finally come in! Praise the Lord! It is available if anyone is interested in purchasing it. Details are below.

When the Rains Descend by Melissa Carlson

$7.00/book + *$2.50 shipping
*All proceeds go toward my ministry in Sweden.* If anyone is interested in purchasing a book, please email me your order at reachingswedenforchrist@yahoo.com and I will email you an invoice. The invoice will include a link in which you will be able to pay via my Pay Pal account. You can pay with Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover, Debit card, or through your own Pay Pal account. Once payment is confirmed, your order will be shipped.

*Shipping cost is for up to 3 books. For larger orders, please contact me and we can work out the shipping details.
**Shipping cost does not apply to anyone living in Watertown, WI (or for members of Calvary Baptist Church in Watertown).

Feel free to contact me with any questions!

Thank you for your part in the ministry in Sweden!

I also wanted to let you know that for this year I am going to start sending out updates every other month instead of every month as I have been doing it. This will greatly help me in the areas of cost and time! You will still be able to keep track of me regularly through my blog at swedeheart.blogspot.com. I appreciate your flexibility in this area!

Thank you so much for your faithful prayers, support and encouragement! May the Lord bless you in the new year!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson
Jer. 32:27

2009 Itinerary

January 2009

• 19^th-26^th – Bethany Baptist Church – Altona, IL

February 2009

• 1^st –Sunday: Faith Baptist Church – Sauk Centre, MN Pastor Hemsworth
• 4^th – Wed. pm: Woodlawn Baptist Church – Fergus Falls, MN Pastor Rob Kelley
• 8^th – Sunday pm: Coon Rapids Baptist Church – Coon Rapids, MN
• 15^th – Sunday pm: First Baptist Church – Baxter, MN Pastor Grotzke
• 22^nd – Sunday all day: First Calvary Baptist Church – Inver Grove Heights, MN Pastor Mike Verway

March 2009

• 8th – Sunday am/afternoon: First Baptist Church – Little Falls, MN Pastor Steve Priola
• 22-24^th – Missions Conference: Union Grove Baptist Church – Union Grove, WI Pastor Schlagel
• 29^th – Sunday: Fellowship Baptist Church – Lodi, WI Pastor Hafeli

April 2009

• 5-8^th –Missions Conference: South Park Baptist Church – Crown Point, IN Pastor Ron Peterson
• 9^th-18^th – Cousin-sitting:)
• 19^th – Sunday am/afternoon: Calvary Baptist Church – Nappanee, IN Pastor Flaming
• 30^th-May 4^th – Missions Conference: Safe Harbor Baptist Church – McKeesport, PA Pastor Paul Lint

May 2009

• April 30^th- May 4^th – See conference info above
• 10^th – Sunday: Grace Bible Church – New Freedom, PA Pastor Andrew Jensen
• 13^th – Wed. pm: Romola Bible Church – Howard, PA Pastor Maurer
• 17^th – Sunday: Grace of Calvary Baptist Church – Erie, PA Pastor George Alquist, Jr.
• 20^th –  Wed. pm: First Baptist Church – Butler, PA Pastor David Maitland
• 24^th – Sunday: Ambassador Baptist Church – Pittsburgh, PA Dr. Mark Montgomery
• 31^st – Sunday: Grace Baptist Church – Monroeville, PA Pastor Grant Abe

June 2009

• 3^rd – Wed. pm: Limerick Chapel – Limerick, PA Pastor Peters
• 7^th – Sunday: Bible Baptist Church – Carnegie, PA Pastor Golden
• 10^th – Wed. pm: Grace Baptist Church – Muncy, PA Pastor Teffeteller
• 15th-19^th – Family Fellowship Week with WWNTBM
• 19^th-27^thVisiting Brother and Sister-in-law – Virginia Beach, VA
• 28^th – Sunday: Grace Baptist Church – Syracuse, NY Pastor Gary Welling

July 2009

• 8^th – Wed. pm: Victory Baptist Church – Fairmont, WV  Pastor Bob Barker
• 19^th – Sunday pm.: Harvester Baptist Church – Ellicott City, MD Pastor Ed Simpson
• 22^nd – Wed. pm: First Baptist Church – Hagerstown, MD Pastor Thom Smith
• 26^th – Sunday: Calvary Baptist Church – Washington, PA Pastor Fred McCloskey

August 2009

• 16^th – Sunday: First Baptist Church – Lake Benton, MN Pastor Mark Fish
• 23^rd – Sunday: First Baptist Church – Madelia, MN Pastor Nathan Delich

September 2009

• 13^th – Sunday School and morning service: Trinity Baptist Church – Fond du Lac, WI Pastor Daniel Leeds – 920-922-9044
• 14^th-15^th –Annual Meeting of Baptist Association – Cambridge, MN Set up display table
• 20^th –Sunday: Faith Baptist Church – Brainerd, MN
• 27^th – Sunday: Community Baptist Church – Milledgeville, IL Pastor Kregg Farmer

October 2009

• 1^st-4^th – Missions Conference: First Baptist Church – International Falls, MN
• 11^th – Sunday: Oakdale First Baptist Church – Oakdale, MN
• 25^th –Sunday: Rockford Baptist Church – Rockford, MN Pastor Roger Louks

December 2008

Merry Christmas from a very wintry Wisconsin! The snow outside is beautiful – looks like we’ll be having a white Christmas here.

I rejoice in another great month of God’s working and provision! My travel schedule has been fairly light since Thanksgiving, allowing me further opportunities to work in other areas of ministry. I am currently still working on my schedule for next year, particularly for the fall. The Lord continues to provide along those lines.

I have also been able to spend a little more time working with music – doing some arranging/writing, etc. I have also been able to get a soprano saxophone, which I’ve enjoyed putting to work! Lord willing, I’ll be playing it this coming Sunday morning at a church in Whitewater, WI. A friend and I are also going to a nursing home in town this coming Monday to play some Christmas music for the residents there. Please pray for continued opportunities for ministry.

I am still waiting for my book to come in. I certainly apologize for the delay. The printing set-up/process has taken longer than anticipated. I am told that it should be in after Christmas. I will let you know! Just another chance to wait on the Lord!

I had a great time last week helping out Heritage Baptist Church of Roscoe, IL with their “Journey to Bethlehem.” It was a great weekend! Many people from the community came out – close to 700 people visited between the two nights in spite of the wintry weather! We praise the Lord for the outreach opportunity – the Gospel was presented and we pray the Lord will continue to work in hearts.

Again, I thank you for your continued prayers, support and encouragement! You are all such a blessing to me! May you have a wonderful Christmas with your family and friends!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson

Jer. 32:27

reachingswedenforchrist@yahoo.com
swedeheart.blogspot.com

current support level: about 42%

November 2008

Praise to God

Look! The mountains tow’ring skyward
Offer praise to Christ on high.|
Lifting up their peaks before Him,
“Thank you, Lord!” is what they cry.

All the valleys bow in worship,
Humbly awed by God’s great love,
Bowing low to show their rev’rence
To the Father up above.

Listen to the gentle music
Of the streams; God’s power they sing,
Softly lifting up their voices,
“Jesus Christ is King of kings!”

All of nature proves the glory
And the strength of God on high.
Should not also we proclaim it?
“Thank you, Lord!” must be our cry.

©2008 Melissa Carlson from When the Rains Descend

Prayer Requests/Praises

*I praise the Lord for a wonderful month of blessing and provision! I had the privilege of being involved in the ministries of several churches throughout WI, IL and KY. Again, I praise God for the safety He has provided throughout the many miles driven! I also rejoice in the falling gas prices. J What a blessing that is!

*Please continue to pray for my coworkers over in Sweden. Pray for the contacts they have made and the ministry opportunities they are involved in.

*Please pray for my new pen pal in Sweden. She and I have spent several hours chatting over instant messaging throughout this past week. Please pray for continued witnessing opportunities there.

*Please continue to pray for my book coming out. I should be receiving the initial copies any day now! Please pray that it will be an encouragement to folks and that God would be glorified through it. I will let you know details as they are available.

*Also, please pray for me as I continue to work on my schedule for next year. The Lord has been gracious in His provision of meetings – please pray that I will be able to get the further meetings needed. So far for 2009 I have meetings scheduled in WI, IL, IN, IA, MN, PA, NY, WV, and MD.

Again, thanks for your faithfulness in prayer! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving – all year round!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson
Jer. 32:27

October 2008

“It is a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord…” - Psalm 92:1a

Dear Praying Friends,

As we enjoy the beauty of the fall season and look ahead with anticipation to the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, let us be reminded that the attitude of thankfulness is one that we must constantly embrace. Sure, there are a lot of things going on in our world – things which cause concern, uncertainty, worry, and even fear. But these things are not beyond the realm of God’s control. We, as Christians, have much we can be thankful for. This year, let’s not wait until Thanksgiving to count our blessings, for being thankful is something we can - and must - do every day of our lives!

I am praising the Lord for a wonderful past couple of months! What a busy time it has been, but it has been exciting to see God’s hand at work! I had the opportunity to participate in several missions conferences both in WI and IL. What a wonderful blessing each one was! They provided great opportunities to interact with the various church families as well as with the other missionary families involved. I especially appreciated being able to hear the challenging preaching of the Word of God.

This past month has also given me contact with a few individuals over in Sweden. I had written, and have recently received a letter from a young lady in Sweden who would like to keep in touch with me. Please pray for good witnessing opportunities in that. I have also been given contact information for a few others over in Sweden. Please pray that connections might be made. I am thankful for these opportunities!

*Please continue to pray for the lost souls of Sweden. *Pray for the Morells and the Deliches as they minister in Stockholm – evangelizing and discipling the people there.

*Please pray that my support would increase. I am currently still at about 42%. *Please continue to pray for safety in travel, and please pray for wisdom as I continue to set up meetings for next year. *As a praise, I am thankful that I was able to get my wisdom teeth out. Praise the Lord they came out easily and have not really given me any trouble! *Also, my book is in the final stages of publication and, Lord willing, will be out very soon! I will certainly be in touch with details concerning that. Please continue to keep this project in your prayers!

Thank you again for your diligent prayers! You play an important role in the ministry in Sweden! God bless – and remember, be thankful!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson

Jer. 32:27

September 2008

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee:

because he trusteth in thee.” – Is. 26:3

Dear Praying Friends,

What a wonderful thing to be able to trust in the Lord! What a great peace to be able to lean on Him completely! I’m so thankful that I can trust every aspect of my life to God. He is the One who created and sustains life. He has a perfect plan for me – and He leads in His perfect way and timing. This truth has been such a tremendous encouragement to me along the deputation trail! The Lord has taught me much about relying upon Him in all things. I know that God is in control and will accomplish His purposes in His time!

I’m thankful for a wonderful month of August. I was privileged to be in several churches in WI and IL. The Lord has truly blessed!

Right now, I am looking forward to a busy fall schedule! I have the opportunity to be involved in two mission’s conferences this month, with several others in the months to follow. I also have many other meetings coming up in WI, IL, and KY.

Thank you for your prayers, your support, your encouragement! Thank you for being a blessing in my life! May you experience the true peace of God as you follow and trust Him daily!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson

Jer. 32:27

swedeheart.blogspot.com

Prayer Requests:

• Pray for the Morells and Deliches in Sweden – they are now back from furlough. Pray for them as they continue to work on plans for expanding ministry opportunities. They also are looking into the possibility of doing some evangelism in a student housing area in Stockholm. Be in prayer for the Bible study group. Pray for Jeff and Katie Coulter, the most recent addition to the Sweden team. They are currently on deputation.
• Please pray for my travels this fall – for safety, for good meetings, for an increase in support.
• I am currently working on my schedule for next year – please pray that I would be able to get the meetings I need.
• My book should be coming out some time this fall – please continue to pray for this project.
• Also, I have to have my wisdom teeth taken out at some point this fall. Please pray for this need!

August 2008

Dear praying friends,

I hardly know where to begin! This past month has truly been a demonstration of God’s great provision in my life! First, I want to say that I am just so thankful for the addition of further support – bringing my current level up to 41.4%! I praise the Lord for that increase!

I am also rejoicing in another month of good meetings. I was especially privileged to be able to go with the teen group from Heritage Baptist Church of Roscoe, IL on their summer VBS missions trip to Tiffin, OH. What a blessing it was to be able to be a part of that! The teens were great – they worked hard. I enjoyed being able to get to know them a little better. During the course of the 10 day trip, we were able to spend about 3 days at the county fair – handing out hundreds of VBS fliers, doing face painting, giving away balloon animals, and passing out wordless book bracelets. The VBS week brought in some new kids – some new contacts for the church there. And we are greatly rejoicing as a young girl accepted Christ during the week! What a blessing it is to see God at work!

Thanks again to all of you who are so faithful in your prayers! It is so evident that people are praying. And thanks to those of you who make it financially possible for me to get to Sweden! You are a blessing!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson

Jer. 32:27

Prayer Requests:

• I am working on my schedule for next year. Please pray for provision in that area.
• Please pray for everything going on in Stockholm at this time.
• Please continue to pray for safety in traveling.
• Please pray for a continued increase in support – through churches or individuals.
• Please pray for me this fall – I have a pretty full schedule with several missions conferences throughout Sep. – Nov.

July 2008

Dear Praying Friends,

Yet another month has flown by! I can hardly believe that I’ll be heading back to the Midwest tomorrow! I have had a wonderful month and a half here in Pennsylvania – my meetings have gone really well; it has been such a blessing and encouragement being able to serve with these various church families! I have also enjoyed the opportunity to spend time with family throughout this trip. My uncle and his family were gracious enough to let me base out of their home while I traveled the area. I was also able to spend a week with my brother and sister-in-law out in Lebanon.

My trip down to Ocala, FL for Family Fellowship Week with my mission board also went really well! It was such a refreshing, encouraging, and challenging week – I was able to catch up with some old friends and even make some new ones! I’m so thankful for WWNTBM - they have been such a help and blessing to me!

Coming up at the end of this month, I will be going, Lord willing, with the teens from Heritage Baptist Church of Roscoe, IL on their VBS ministry trip to Ohio. I am looking forward to it! Please pray that all will go well with that!

Thanks again for your faithful prayers! Have a great month!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson

Jer. 32:27

Praises/Prayer Requests:

• I praise the Lord for the provision of a GPS for my car! My brother and sister-in-law surprised me with it when I went to visit them J
• Please pray for a safe trip to Chicago tomorrow.
• Please pray for the ministry in Sweden – for the setting up of a church there in Stockholm, for the Morells home on furlough, for souls to be saved, and for believers to grow in Lord.
• I am working on my schedule for next year. Please be in prayer that the Lord will provide the meetings that are needed! I am planning on spending May and June in PA next year – I already have a few meetings lined up for that time frame.
• My book is with the publishers. Please pray that all will go smoothly in the publication process! May God be glorified!
• Please pray for an increase in support – whether through churches or individuals.

June 2008

Dear Praying Friends,

During this past month, I was privileged to share my burden for Sweden in several churches in WI, IL, and IN. I was also able to speak at a mother-daughter banquet, attend a pastor’s conference, and participate in a nursing home ministry. I am so thankful for the opportunities of service the Lord has provided!

Currently, I am in Pennsylvania – in the Pittsburgh area. I have been able to minister in a couple of churches thus far this month, and I have further meetings scheduled out this way through the middle of July. This coming Sunday afternoon, Lord willing, I will be flying down to Florida for a Family Fellowship Week with my mission board (June 16-20^th)! I’m looking forward to the trip! Please keep me in your prayers!

Prayer Requests:

• I am getting ready to turn my book over to the publishers! Please pray that everything will go well, and that this book will be a blessing and encouragement to those who read it. Pray that the Lord will be glorified in it.
• Continue to pray for the ministry over in Stockholm – that the church planting process will continue to go well. Please keep the Morells and the Deliches in prayer!
• Please pray for continued safety on the roads – and in the air!
• Praise! I was able to have the air conditioning fixed in my car! I am very thankful for the Lord’s provision in this area – especially as it has been quite hot lately!
• Please continue to pray for an increase of support – whether through churches or individuals!
• And please pray for the people of Sweden – that they would see their need of a Savior and accept His free gift of salvation.

Thanks again for your faithful prayers! May the Lord bless you as you serve Him this summer!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson
Jer. 32:27

May 2008

“…always laboring fervently for you in prayers…” Colossians 4:12

One of my favorite Bible characters is the man Epaphras, mentioned in Colossians chapters one and four. The thing about his life that really stands out to me is his focus on prayer. Paul portrays Epaphras as a prayer warrior – one who was always praying fervently for others. What a challenge that is in my own life! May we all be prayer warriors – because prayer does matter; it does make a difference!

I am so thankful for those faithful prayer warriors God has raised up to intercede for me! Many of you are so faithful in your prayers – thank you so much!

Prayer Requests: I Thess. 5:25 “Brethren, pray for us.”

• I am considering publishing a small book of poetry entitled “When the Rains Descend,” Bible-based poems of encouragement for those going through difficult times. I would plan on selling the books and putting the proceeds toward my Sweden trip. Please be in prayer for me as I have many decisions to make in regard to this project.
• Please continue to be in prayer for the Morells and Deliches over in Sweden. The Morells will be coming home for a furlough this summer. And please continue to pray for the church plant in process in Stockholm.
• Please continue to pray for safety in travel. I praise the Lord for a safe trip out west – God was certainly watching out for me! Please pray also as I will be driving out to Pennsylvania here at the end of this month.
• Please pray for an increase in support. I am currently at 29.5%. Pray that some more churches and perhaps even some more individuals might be able to take me on for support.

Again, please continue to pray! It is such a vital part of missions. In conclusion, may I challenge you, as I challenge myself, with I Thessalonians 5:17 – “Pray without ceasing.” For the “harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few.” (Matthew 9:37) There is a need in this world – souls desperately need Christ – and prayer does make a difference!

May the Lord bless you as you serve Him!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson

Jer. 32:27

April 2008

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matt.5:16

March was a busy month with much going on. I was able to be in 6 churches in 3 states, participate in a friend’s wedding, visit with my brother and sister-in-law who flew in for Easter, and wrap up the month with a drive westward to Arizona! I praise the Lord for the safety and provision He provided through it all! I also appreciate the many opportunities He gave for ministry. One opportunity that was a special blessing to me was the chance to share my testimony and the Gospel with several girls from a women’s prison facility in IA. It was great being able to talk with the girls there – what a tremendous ministry for the ladies from the church who are able to visit and share God’s Word with these girls regularly! It’s a wonderful ministry, and one that needs much prayer!

Prayer Requests:

*Please pray for continued safety as I travel within Arizona/Nevada throughout April, and then as I head home at the end of the month.

*I have had the opportunity to write to a young lady in Sweden – please pray for further correspondence and opportunities to witness.

*Please pray for an increase in support and further scheduling of meetings.

*Please continue to pray for the Morells and the Deliches in Sweden and the church they are planting there. Please pray for the contacts they have made – for those they are discipling, and for those they are seeking to reach with the Gospel.

*Please pray also, as I have a need to get the air conditioning fixed in my car (the compressor is shot).

I greatly appreciate your faithfulness in prayer! What a vital part of missions! May the Lord bless you as you continue to serve Him! May your lights shine brightly for the Lord in this world of darkness!

For Christ Alone,

Melissa Carlson
Jer. 32:27

March 2008 Update

“My responsibility in my Christian life is to be involved where I am, in doing the will of God where He has put me, to lean the lessons He is teaching me. It is God’s job to open doors of opportunity…An available heart will always find lots to do for the Lord.” – Gary Inrig

Dear praying friends,

Have you ever considered what an amazing privilege it is to serve the Lord - realizing that God doesn’t need any of us to accomplish His purposes, but He chooses to use us? What a responsibility – and what a thrill! There is nothing greater than following the path God has chosen for you! I love being a missionary – and I am loving deputation! It’s where God has me, and there’s no place else I’d rather be! Whether on our mission field at home or abroad, may we always be faithfully serving the One Who has saved us by His grace!

This past month has been busy, but good. I praise God for the many good meetings I was able to have and for the safety He provided during a very wintry month! My support stands at 28.9% and I rejoice in all God has provided. This March, Lord willing, brings many more meetings and further opportunities to serve. Many thanks to all of you who have been so faithfully praying for me! Thank you so much for the encouragement and blessing you have been!

Prayer Requests:

Please pray for continued safety in travel, for further scheduling of meetings, and for an increase in support.

Please pray also for the Morells and the Deliches over in Sweden – for the contacts they have made and for the church in the process of being planted there in Stockholm.

Also, please pray for me as I will be driving out to Arizona at the end of March for a month of meetings out west.

Thanks again for all your prayers! I trust that you will all have a great month in the service of the King!

Coming Up in March:

9^th – 6pm service: Bay City Baptist – Green Bay, WI Dr. Morris Bender – 920-499-5561

16^th – Sunday pm: First Baptist Church – New Lisbon, WI Pastor Delbert Oatsvall

19^th – Wed. pm: First Baptist Church – Geneseo, IL Pastor Kobernat – 309-944-3735

23^rd – Sunday am: Fellowship Baptist Church of Harmony Grove – Lodi, WI Pastor Eric Hafeli

30^th – Adelphi Calvary Baptist Church – Runnells, IA Pastor VanderHart

For Christ Alone,

Melissa Carlson
Jer. 32:27

Please feel free to contact me!
Blog: swedeheart.blogspot.com
Kid’s blog: swedetarts.blogspot.com

February 2008 Update

Dear praying friends,

Psalm 19:1 says, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handiwork.” We’ve just had a beautiful, yet powerful, snow storm yesterday, and while watching the snow blow around outside, I marveled at the wonder of God’s creation! What an amazing, awesome God we serve! In the busyness of life, don’t forget to take the time to look around and thank God for all He has created! Just think – the snow isn’t just a bunch of white, wet stuff falling to the ground; it is the very hand of God at work!

Praises:

• I’m up to 28.8% of my support!
• I’m so thankful for the safety God has provided this past month. I praise God that I haven’t had to do much traveling in bad weather!
• I was able to get safely moved into my parent’s home before the worst of this past snow storm hit!
• I’m thankful for the good meetings I was able to have this past month. One was cancelled due to the weather, but it has been rescheduled for this coming weekend.

Prayer Requests:

• Please pray that God would continue to raise up some more churches, or even some more individuals, who might be able to take me on for support.
• Please pray that I would continue to be able to get more meetings scheduled.
• Please continue to pray for safety in traveling. I have 2 particularly big trips coming up this year (one to Arizona, the other to Pennsylvania).
• Continue to pray for the Morells and Deliches in Sweden as they are in the process of getting a church planted there. They are currently working on getting organization status (which allows for the renting of a building and may even aid in the visa process for other missionaries getting into the country).
• There is also a need for missions in the arctic part of Sweden – working with the Sami people. Please pray that God may lay these souls upon someone’s heart!

Coming Up in February:

• Feb. 10^th – Grace Baptist Church - East Moline, IL
• Feb. 17-20^th – Grace Baptist Church Missions Conference – Taylorville, IL
• Feb. 24^th – Calvary Baptist Church – Chillicothe, IL

Please note! I have a new address! As of Tuesday evening, my new address is: 239 East Spaulding St., Watertown, WI 53098

Again, thank you all so much for your faithfulness in prayer! Thank you for the encouragement that you all are to me! I do appreciate the many emails I’ve received just letting me know that you’re praying! Prayer does make a difference! There is no doubt about that! Thanks again!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson

Jer. 32:27

***Visit me on my blog:  swedeheart.blogspot.com

***And don’t forget to check out my new blog for kid’s: swedetarts.blogspot.com

January 2008 Update

Dear praying friends,

I trust you all had a great Christmas season! December was a slower month for me, in that I didn’t have as many meetings scheduled, but it was a good month. I was able to present my ministry at Berean Baptist Church in Beloit, WI, and I was also able to help a supporting church (Heritage Baptist in Roscoe, IL) with their “Journey to Bethlehem” weekend. It was a blessing to be able to be a part of those ministries.

I was also able to take a train trip down to Arkansas to spend Christmas with my grandparents. It was a special Christmas and a great time of rest and regrouping.

I’m looking forward to a busy 2008. My schedule is slowly, but surely, filling up and I am so thankful for that. Please pray that I will be able to continue to get more meetings lined up.

Prayer Requests:

* The Morells/Deliches - in the process of establishing a church in Stockholm / for further contacts and outreach opportunities
* Need for an increase in support
* Safety in traveling
* Further meetings scheduled – a particular need for more meetings in the PA area for May-July
* I will be moving into my parent’s home in February. (My roommate is getting married March 8thJ)

Praises:

* The Lord has provided so that I can now get a new laptop, which has been a need for some time!
* I rejoice in the safety God has provided and for His continual provision!
* I am thankful for the meetings God has provided thus far for 2008!

Thank you for your faithfulness in prayer! I am so thankful for each one of you!

I pray you all have a wonderful, Christ-honoring new year!

Check out the link to my new blog for kids: swedetarts.blogspot.com

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson

Jer. 32:27    Lord, give me courage to follow Your will.
                        Lord, give me strength to obey.
                    Lord, I’ll go anywhere You bid me go.
                        Lord, let me serve You today.

December 2007 Update

Dear praying friends,

As Christmas time approaches, I am so thankful for the wonderful gift God gave to us that first Christmas so very long ago – His Son, Jesus Christ, born of a virgin in a lowly stable. He was born a perfect man, but with an extraordinary purpose – to die a cruel death on the cross for sinners such as ourselves. Such is the message, the Gospel, the good news that we have to share with a lost and dying world. People all around us - in the United States, Sweden, and around the world - are searching for hope and peace – and in Christ, and Christ alone, is such a peace and hope found! Praise the Lord for salvation – salvation that is available to all who call upon the Lord in faith! May we never lose sight of that glorious gift! And may our eyes be opened to the spiritual needs of those around the world – those dying without knowing the Savior.

November Recap

November was a wonderful month! I had meetings in WI, IL, and MN. Each meeting went well, and I praise the Lord for the churches God has allowed me to visit! What a blessing each one has been!

I was also able to enjoy Thanksgiving at my grandparent’s house in IL. It was a wonderful time of rest and fellowship with family! I really have so much to be thankful for!

A look Ahead

Wednesday Dec. 12^th – Berean Baptist Church in Beloit, WI

Friday-Saturday Dec. 14-15^th – “Journey to Bethlehem” Heritage Baptist Church in Roscoe, IL

Please Pray

*Please continue to pray for the Morells and Deliches in Sweden. Pray for them especially as they are in the process of planting a church in Stockholm!

*Pray also for the Petersons. They will not be joining the team in Stockholm as the Swedish government has once again denied their visas. They are currently looking to join a church planting team in Scotland, where they will also be available to help out in the Scandinavian countries from time to time with teaching and such.

*Please pray that I would continue to have safety in traveling. Winter is here! I love the snowJ – it’s beautiful, but I don’t particularly enjoy driving in ice storms and blizzards!

*Please pray also that I would be able to continue to get meetings scheduled for next year and that my support level would increase.

*And please be in prayer for some technical needs that I have! The audio in my computer isn’t working and I have been unable to get it fixed. Please pray that I would know the best decision to make in this regard.

Thank you all for your faithfulness in prayer, support, and encouragement! May you all have a wonderful Christmas season! And in all the hustle and bustle, don’t forget to keep Christ at the forefront! May the Lord bless you as you continue to serve Him!

For Christ Alone,
Melissa Carlson

Missionary to Sweden
Jer. 32:27

Feel free to email me at reachingswedenforchrist@yahoo.com.
And please visit me at my blog for more frequent updates!
Blog address: swedeheart.blogspot.com

Prayer Letter- November 2007