France - Summer 2000

We had such a wonderful missionary experience with Joël and Daniel in France last summer. We really feel that this special time with the boys was a gift from God. Through many cards and letters, we know that you have been standing with us. We have never met Joan, but she wrote, "I am a widow - 80 years of age - have four grown children - ten grandchildren and three great grandchildren, and shudder at the thought of losing one of them. You have been on my mind and heart ever since. I grieve with you." This letter came from Vancouver. "You do not know us, but we are part of the Canadian Baptist Family to which you belong. Back in 1990 we too had a tragedy in our family. At that time, the Christian family amazed us with their love and support through prayer and financial help." Michael and I have also been amazed. We are truly grateful.

In the Old Testament, God directed His people to pile stones on the edge of the Jordan River to establish a permanent reminder of God's faithfulness. To continue this biblical lesson with our sons, we have been gathering rocks from every place we travelled to in the past ten years. They are piled by our front door, a visual reminder of the wonderful times God has given us. This past summer, I collected a rock from Juno Beach where the New Brunswick North Shore Regiment landed on D Day, 1944. Michael and the boys collected fossils in southern France. Now, we also have a headstone in a country cemetery near Moncton as a tribute to our precious sons, and a memorial stone placed on a tiny island in France by the European Bible Institute. It states, "Joël and Daniel Roop, brothers in life and in faith, summer 1999".

France seems to be a place of ministry for us, as well as a place of healing. We spent 6 weeks ministering last summer and 4 restful weeks with the Smiths this Christmas. We feel called by God to continue our work at European Bible Institute for 6 weeks this summer. We are also seeking God's direction as to our future. Will we complete a Canadian Baptist Volunteer project each summer, or is the Lord leading us to serve Him full time? Perhaps we will become another "Maritime grown" CBM couple! Please pray with us.

The Biblical image of Moses praying during the battle, holding up his arms in prayer is very powerful. But, Moses needed help with his aching arms and tired spirit, and godly people assisted him. This is how we visualise our efforts for CBM missionaries Terry and Heather Smith. The Smith's are moving into a new home and the staff at European Bible Institute are working hard to prepare the last graduation from the castle, getting ready to move the school to a new location, plus finishing up the school year. It is a hectic time for them. They need rest, encouragement and help in completing many projects this summer. Perhaps the most important part of our ministry will be that of spiritual encouragement, standing with them.

Will you stand with us ... encouraging God's servants in France this summer? We plan to leave Canada on June 30 and return on Aug. 12. Please pray that we will have wisdom in planning details of this trip, purchasing tickets and raising support funds. Pray that God would enable us to be an encouragement to others.

In His Care,
Michael and Rennie Roop
Canadian Baptist Volunteers
114 Ashley Cr.
Moncton, N.B. E1G 1R4