End of Year 2015

It is said every year at this time, "Can you believe it?  Another year is almost past."  I have been in Yei almost 2 months now, and it was this time last year I was just making preparations for a Vision visit.  I can't believe the time has gone so quickly, but I do it was spent in a lot of preparation and support from so many to make this journey happen. Thank you so much!

The needs here are many if life in Yei is compared to Anytown, USA.  But if you compare the South Sudanese people with an American (or anyone else) the real life needs are the same.  As we were going down a REALLY rough road I was asked if the roads in America were anything like these.  They asked in such a way as to imply if their roads were better, they would be better people.  The convenience would be better, but would it really "change" them?   Of course not.  They need Jesus for that, just like everyone else.  I am so humbled to be able to live my Christian walk among some of God's most passionate, and spirit filled people.  We are the light and the salt of the earth.  If we are living for Christ our light will shine, and we will make someone else's life a little better without even trying.  I hope I will make a difference here to at least someone.  And I pray you make a difference where you are at in someone else's life.

God's peace be with you and your family during this most wonderful time of the year!  Have a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed 2016!

Life in Yei, South Sudan

Life in Yei is a little different than Largo or Social Circle, but it already feels like home.  God has been faithful this entire journey and has proved Himself over and over.  I can say with confidence:  "I have set the Lord continually before me;  Because He is at my right hand, I will not be shaken."  Psalm 16:8.

Roads are a little rough, and nutrition is a problem.  Health care is minimal.  There is much education and training that needs to be done.  Current inflation is a huge problem, and they are in the middle of a fuel crisis.  Yet, I am told Yei is the "paradise city" of South Sudan.  I see God's hand working, and I'm thankful to be here!

I am so thankful for all of the prayer warriors and financial supporters for making this journey successful.  You truly are a blessing!  It is easy to become a financial partner.  Click on the TMS icon and it will take you directly to the giving site at The Mission Society.  Enter my name and or number 3080.  Your donations can be given in check or credit form, and are tax deductible.  Or you can send donations to The Mission Society (Memo to Carolyn Goodwin/3080) at PO Box 922637 Norcross, GA 30010-2637.  If you have any questions you can call TMS at 800-478-8963.  Thank you, and God bless you abundantly!  Please pray for South Sudan and the people.  (And me :) )

The Silent Auction was a Huge Success!

Paul wrote so well, "I thank my God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faith is being reported all over the world." Romans 1:8   I don't need to change a thing in this sentiment.  Because of you and your faith the auction was a huge success, and your faith will be spread all over the world - especially in South Sudan.  I thank everyone who helped and worked so hard to put the event together, for everyone who donated, and for everyone who came to support the event.  Many of these special people did all 3.  I am happy to report we topped $3,000.  This will cover the expenses for things such as the solar power equipment, water filtration system, transportation of these items AND get a bike!  Woo-Hoo!  Thank you so much.  You will be remembered fondly.  This was truly Spirit led, and I give Him all the praise and glory!

If you were unable to attend the auction and would still like to donate just click on The Mission Society logo to the right and it will direct you to my account provided by The Mission Society.  In the missionary block enter my name - Carolyn Goodwin or my number 3080.  God bless you!

Here it is!  The latest and greatest list of Silent Auction Items.  

Come place a bid on any of the items you are interested in on September 27, 2015, at St. Paul UMC,
CLEC, 1199 Highland Ave, Largo, Fl.  Preview items and have refreshments at 2:00, bids start at 3:00 and will close at 4:00.  There will also be a table set up for Instant Wins where items can be purchased immediately.  Thank you so much for your love and support!  "I thank my God in all my remembrance of you."  Phil 1:3

If you would still like to donate items for the auction contact Darlene Coburn at dar567@tampabay.rr.com or Mary Vaughn at crackermary41@gmail.com.

Monthly/Yearly pledges are still needed.  Please click on The Mission Society icon to connect with a secure link to give tax deductible gifts to Carolyn Goodwin.  Missionary number 3080.

AUCTION ITEMS AS OF SEPTEMBER 20, 2015 

1	14K Seahorse pendent Necklace w/20' 14K chain.  From The Diamond Source.
2	14K Sailfish pendent Necklace w/22" 14K chain. From The Diamond Source.
3	Rays Up!  Autographed ball by #5 Brandon Guyer.  Official baseball hat.  Misc. collectible bobble heads and license plate. Over $90 value
4	Fishing Basket:  includes $25 Gift Ctf. From Bass Pro Shops; Sea Scollop kit; Eagle Claw filet knife, head band lamp & other miscel.
5	Hand painted water color painting; beautifully framed beach scene
6	Chipotle Gift Basket
7	Faith Basket:  Study Bible; devotional book, Etc.
8	Large Stained Glass Wine Glasses; set of 6
9	Framed Brazilian Embroidery Christmas Tree
10	Super cute purse with Brazilian Embroidery insert
11	Garth Brooks CDs - Limited series - 6 CDs
12	Faberge Egg with holder
13	4 Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Dallas Cowboys tickets.  November 15, 2015
14	Original pastel framed painting by Doris Kucik
15	Foursome at Clearwater Country Club
16	Video Golf Lesson - 1 hr. with Jeff Haney Pro at CCC
17	Golf for two at Pinecrest Golf Course, dozen Titlest balls; visor
18	4 Hand-painted wine glasses; Neiman Marcus
19	Diamond Ring Set
20	Aran Afgan Aran Crocheted Blanket
21	Japanese Cherry Blossom gift set Bath & Body Works
22	Santa & Elf Toby Mug Lenox - for the holidays
23	Avon Kissing Kids Christmas bell
24	Elephant Baby Blanket
25	Hammered Rectangle Small Dish by Godinger
26	Butterfly Shawl - Yellow crocheted
27	Pierre Cardin green tote bag
28	Willow Tree - Angel of Prayer Keepsake Box DEMDACO design
29	Theraputic Massage by Megan - Once a month for six months in your own home
30	Armstrong Images - Photo Shoot (Family, Engagement, Special Occasion)  1 hr in studio or on location.  Images provided on discs
31	Wooden Car 1927 REO
32	Charlie Daniels - 2 photographs that were used in his 2001 LIVE! CD  Photos only not CD cover
33	Pen & Ink "Indian" print by Vernon L. Potter was purchased in 1995 in Jacksonville, Florida.  Nmbered and signed.
34	Pen & Ink "Retired and Forgotten"  by Vernon L. Potter was purchesed in 1995 in Jacksonville, FL.  Numbered and Signed
35	Pen & Ink "Plowed Field"  by Vernon L. Potter was purchesed in 1995 in Jacksonville, FL.  Numbered and Signed
36	Pen & Ink "Country Life"  by Vernon L. Potter was purchesed in 1995 in Jacksonville, FL.  Numbered and Signed
37	Handmade Wine Cork Basket with Bottle of Martinelli Sparkling cider, wine glasses w/napkins, 3 Murano wine bottle stoppers included.
38	How does your garden grow?  A bright yellow watering can and $25.00 gift certificate to the "Butterfly Plantation" .  With a big red pot!  Dirt and a spade, Gloves for your hands and a hat for shade
39	Lavendar quilt with baby diaper shirt
40	Avon Basket - Miscellanous Jewlery
41	Spa Basket - One massage by Megan and Green Women Herbs; Hint of Rose
42	Desert Bullet - like brand new, recipe book
43	Crystal Cordial Set - Hand Painted
44	African Soap Stone Navity Set - 12 piece
45	Honeywell FocusPRO 6000 Thermostat
46	Craft Basket - How to books, knitted slippers, hand crafted angel, craft brushes
47	Garden Design - $50 gift certificate; Flower pot and misc
48	Royal Albert Enchantment 3-piece luncheon set/Kennedy memorial spoon/$20 certificate for Acropol.  Luncheon set and Spoon is a COLLECTIBLE
49	Divided china dish by artist Florence Monk - Imported china; hand painted
50	Mid-century Courc signed tray/Runyan - Rare.  Unsigned and smaller go for $30.  COLLECTIBLE
51	Butterfly cake plate and server.  Formalities by Baum Brothers.  COLLECTIBLE
52	2 International silver candy nut dishes w/spoons.  COLLECTIBLE
53	34" x 34" Framed painting by Kimberly
54	Arthur Armor aluminum tray and 2 plates - each signed.  COLLECTIBLE
55	Everlast forged aluminum tray.  Stamped.  COLLECTIBLE
56	Cromwell Hand Wrought Lemonade Pitcher COLLECTIBLE
57	3 Rogers Silver Commorative Presidential Spoons:  Washington, Adams, and Jefferson.  COLLECTIBLES
58	Aurora Borealis 3-piece crystal set: 3 strand Necklas, 3 strand Bracelet, and ear rings.  COLLECTIBLE
59	Rose Candlesticks (2) - Capodimonti
60	RoosterFish gift certificates:  $45 and $25
61	2 beautiful Bevelled Plate Glass Mirrors - approx 27" x 18" Oval shaped
62	Crystal bowl by PartyLite
63	Stem Votive Holder Quintet by PartyLite
64	Shadow Lights Lantern by PartyLite
65	Ceramic Garden Plate by PartyLite

Fall Update - Silent Auction September 27th

Hello again.  September is here and already moving at lightening speed!  MTI was wonderful and now I feel as prepared as I can be to go to South Sudan.  I thank The Mission Society for all their diligence in preparing missionaries for the field.

As was mentioned on my last blog a Silent Auction and Thank You Party is planned for Sunday, September 27th at the CLEC, St. Paul UMC, 1199 Highland Ave, Largo Fl 33771.  It will start at 2pm with a preview of items and refreshments, and bidding to begin at 3:30 pm.  Here are just a few items that have come in:

(4) Tickets to the Bucs vs Cowboys
Rays basket (includes an autographed ball by Brandon Guyer)
A professional photo sitting
Package of 6 massages - One a month for six months!
Collectibles
Gold jewelry
Golf lessons and green fees
A Baby basket
A "Cooking" basket
Hand crocheted blanket
Original framed painting
Much more!

This is just a sample of what has been donated so far.   I'll be updating the list periodically.  If you would like to donate something for the auction please contact Mary Vaughn at crackermary41@gmail.com or Darlene Coburn at dar567@tampabay.rr.com.   Thank you very much everyone!  The proceeds from the auction will help with getting a solar system to bring to Yei, and setting up housekeeping and (hopefully) a bike.  

"I'm reminded of your authentic faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice.  I'm sure that this faith is also inside you."  2 Timothy 1:5

Summer Update

Finally I am getting to do an update.  Time has been going way to fast!  Thank you for your patience and grace.   "Oh Lord, our Lord, How majestic is Your name in all the Earth..."  Psalm 8:1

June was basically a month of preparation.  I did a few presentations and was excited to share to small groups what God is doing.  That's always rewarding, and the part of the journey that I especially love.  I also prepared to go to India for training, and a quick trip to Georgia to meet my new great granddaughter Lilly Rose, and speak at my old church Mt. Pleasant, in Social Circle.

The trip to India was very intense, and enlightening.  I think I will be processing everything for a long time to come.  I know I have taken away Kingdom lessons that will be used the rest of my journey on Earth, and friendships that will extend into eternity.  Thank you to those that have supported me with prayers and financially to make this happen!

Speaking at Mt. Pleasant was a delight!  Sharing what God is doing and how He is leading this journey makes everything come full circle.  Although I gave my life to missions 30 years ago, it wasn't until about 5 years ago at Mt. Pleasant there was a pastor with a missionary heart that opened the door to short term missions for me.  Thank you Pastor Michael Dunbar!  It was good seeing old friends, and enjoying the best pot luck luncheon you will ever get at any UMC!!  Thank you Pastor Leah and church family for your love and support!!

Now I am preparing to go to Colorado Springs for further training.  I leave Aug 3rd and return Aug 29th.  It will be great training to equip me on how to learn a new language, and continue cross cultural training.  Please continue to be in prayer for me during this time.

The Home Team is planning a Silent Auction for September 27th at St. Paul UMC.  I am also inviting everyone for cake to say thank you for your support before I leave for S. Sudan a couple of weeks away.  Please mark your calendars for that date.  If you have anything you would like to donate for the auction please contact Mary Vaughn crackermary41@gmail.com, or Darlene Coburn dar567@tampabay.rr.com.  They are collecting donations at this time.  We hope there will be a variety of items that will attract a lot of interest.  Monies earned will go towards getting a bike and setting up housekeeping in Yei.

If you would like to partner with me and haven't already please click on The Mission Society logo and it will lead you to a secure dedicated account at The Mission Society.  Donations will go directly into my account and are tax deductible.  Thank you and God bless you for your support.

How can I pray for you?  Please send me your prayer requests to goodwin.carolyn99@gmail.com.

Love and Blessings,
Carolyn

"Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace."  1 Peter 4:10

May Update

Hello!  Thank you for logging on to my blogspot!  I like to keep you up-to-date on what's happening.

I need to send a BIG shout-out to my Home Team!  They knocked it out of the park on Friday, May 15th with a beautiful prayer vigil at St. Paul UMC!  It gave God all the glory!  Kudos need to go to Heidi Griffiths who guided the team in how to do a prayer vigil and helped serve by hosting the Home Team table, Darlene Coburn for single handedly taking charge and seeing this project through to the end, Rebecca Carefoot and Mary Vaughn for all of their extra typing, printing and advertising.  Everyone on the team (Darlene, Rebecca, Mary, Megan, Matt, Judy, Patsy, and Evelyn) worked hard to set up a beautiful table and then take the time to man it.  It is very much appreciated.  Since it was candlelight the pictures aren't that great but I did want to share some of the better ones with you.   Thank you, guys for doing this, and thank you, thank you, thank you for those that stopped by to pray on a rainy night!

What's next?  I'll be spending the next few weeks working on fundraising.  I still need several of God's people to help with financial requirements.  Please contact me if you would like for me to speak with you 1:1, a small group, or church about my ministry and how you can help.  If you still would like to send a gift click on The Mission Society logo and it will take you directly to my secure account site.  Remember gifts given through The Mission Society are tax deductible.

In July I will be going to India for cross-cultural training through The Mission Society.  I'll be in Colorado Springs for all of August for further cross-cultural training learning how to learn a foreign language (which I will need to learn Arabic and Kakwa), and more training in living in a different culture.  September will bring me home to prepare for deploying October 8.

Please continue to pray for me as I continue to prepare for this awesome journey.  The effective prayer of a righteous man can accomplish much.  James 5:16