Hey everyone,
Some of you may be wondering what's happening with us regarding jobs and visas, whether we're coming or going…we've finally got some clarity to share with you…
Last time I mentioned the possibility of working at the kids' school and waiting to see if the government would approve the visa transfer, the government HAS approved the visa and I'll be officially employed at Covenant Christian School starting 1 February. In addition, now that this has been finalized we can lodge a new application for Permanent Residency (we thought we'd have to wait until next year but we don't). The school has already begun the process to nominate us for a PR visa (total process takes approximately 8 months). If this is approved we'll no longer have to worry about being sponsored and we'll receive most of the benefits of being citizens of the country (medical insurance, reduced tuition fees, etc). It will be a great blessing!
I think the greatest challenge for us in all of this has been the uncertainty and instability; we've just wanted to know if we're staying or going (it's difficult to really knuckle down and go for it when you don't know if you'll have to leave in a few weeks) and we're longing to be a part of a community of like-minded believers. The thought of returning to the States is very appealing for these reasons. But I'm confident God has opened the door for us to remain in Australia for the time being.
With that said, we don't know what's ahead regarding ministry??? There's a bit of re-positioning going on with us in Christian Surfers…still involved but changes afoot. More to come on that later, for now please keep the matter in prayer. There are other ministry opportunities cropping up throughout the Northern Beaches which we're praying about. But nothing is very clear at the moment. We're definitely in a period of waiting. I do believe God will make things clear when its time for us to see, until then we must be patient and wait on God.
A few things coming up for prayer;
· This weekend is the annual Jesus Pro/Am; a Christian Surfers professional and amateur surf competition/festival. This year its being held in Newcastle, a couple hours north of us. It’s a great outreach to the surf community! http://jesusproam.com.au/
· 1 December is the Paddle Against Poverty event; a 6k paddle from Manly Beach to Dee Why. Christian Surfers working with World Vision to raise funds for Sumba, Indonesia. I've signed up to do the paddle, to raise funds to help the people of Sumba.
If you'd like to sponsor me or the cause go to: http://www.everydayhero.com.
· 5-8 December is the Envision Conference which will take place at St Matthews Church in Manly (same place as last year). Brian and Cheryl Brodersen and others will be traveling here to speak at the conference, I'll be MCing the event...just found out I may be teaching as well?? http://www.envision-australia.
· 7 December, the family leaves for the States. I don't leave until the 22nd. I booked all our flights when I was still employed full-time. I'm hoping to change my flights to an earlier date but its super expensive at the moment to do so.
· We'll be finishing 1 John on Thursday nights in a week or so (our home bible study), then taking a break as we prepare to visit the States…really looking forward to visiting family and friends, and all our favorite eateries!!! Souplantation, Mexican (any kine), Taco Bell, etc!!!!
On another note, Malena has finished school!! She's been accepted to Calvary Chapel Bible College at Murrieta, which she'll start in February. It will be weird returning to Oz without her! Nina is entering high school (year 7) and gets to change her school uniform as does Jesse. Jesse will be going in to 10thgrade and looking for a part time job when we return from the States.
Lastly, in consideration of applying for Permanent Residency it costs about $4000-$5000 for the whole process. Aside from that we've got some auto repair needs that have come up unexpectedly (as they often do) and other financial needs…so, as you’re praying and seeking the Lord, if you sense God leading you to partner with us financially there are a few options for doing so:
FOR AUSTRALIA:
BSB: 082 116
Acct: 179391629
Bradley Hall
FOR USA:
1. If by credit card you can do so by going to: https://www.easytithe.com/f/k=
Under the ‘Missionary Name/Code’ prompt you’ll find us listed as “Hall, Brad”
2. If by check:
a. Make checks out to: Calvary Chapel, in the memo note: “Brad and Christy Hall.”
b. Mail checks to: Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa, Attn: accounting
3800 Fairview
Santa Ana, CA 92704
FOR AUSTRALIA:
BSB: 082 116
Acct: 179391629
Bradley Hall
FOR USA:
1. If by credit card you can do so by going to: https://www.easytithe.com/f/k=
Under the ‘Missionary Name/Code’ prompt you’ll find us listed as “Hall, Brad”
2. If by check:
a. Make checks out to: Calvary Chapel, in the memo note: “Brad and Christy Hall.”
b. Mail checks to: Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa, Attn: accounting
3800 Fairview
Santa Ana, CA 92704
May God bless you as you seek Him with your whole heart.
Love and Aloha,
the Halls
