Subject:  Greetings from Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe

Dear Brethren

Greetings in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.

Myself and my brothers were happy to learn that you have a website. I am Pastor Kakava of Church of Christ Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe.  We used to have Pastor Dale Marshall who retired in 2008 and left for the USA.  My other brothers are Pastor Longwe and Pastor Raund. 

As young upcoming Pastors, we believe that if we network with the Mother Church we are able to realize our ministerial dreams.

We have enjoyed your newsletters.  However, we are sorry about the death of Pastor David Kester.

Please we value your prayers that we may be overcomers.  We are also requesting your monthly newsletter.

God bless you.
Pastor Kakava

Nicholas Z. Kakava
Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe, Africa - March 6, 2010

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Hello everybody!:)

I hope most of you remember me being part of your community in 2008/2009. I thought it's about time to tell you guys how much I miss you all and your loving congregation. I still wake up every morning thinking of you and my wonderful time in Cleveland. 

This evening I attended a youth service in my church in Germany. And we were singing "Blessed be your name"! Immediately I was remembering all the awesome songs that we sang at the Church of Christ! I miss especially my youth group and all the fun activities that we were doing together!

I just want you to know that I will never forget you and that I will have you guys in my heart for the rest of my life.

I miss you all,
Love, Nico

PRAISE THE LORD!!!

Nico Jaeger
Germany - February 5, 2010

Webmaster note: Nico Jaeger was an exchange student here at Cleveland for the school year 2008-2009. 
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Hello,

I want to thank everyone for the warm welcome and taking us into the fold at a trying time in our lives. We know God will let us know in His time what He would like us to do.

Again thank you for allowing us to attend your church without the assurance that we will join.

God Bless You,
Brenda Ann Davis
Le Center MN, USA - January 21, 2010

Subject:  Missing Marge

Hello Cleveland Church of Christ, 

I was just sitting here today thinking about my mom Marge and started thinking about the church in Cleveland.  You were truely another family to my mother and I remember her always giving me updates on things going on in the church.  Even though my mom is gone and greatly missed she is always with us and I know she is in Heaven with David (Kester, our pastor who died in July 2008) right now looking down on us all.  I just wanted to say thank you to everyone for everything they did for my mother's funeral...and for always making Cleveland feel like home....

God Bless
LeeAnn (Augustinovich) Welch
Buffalo, MN, USA – August 12, 2009
(attended Cleveland church in her growing up years
with her mom, Marge Augustinvoich who died June 1, 2009)


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Hello, Cleveland Church Family!

It's 4:30 a.m. and the coyotes are howling outside under a canopy of stars in a black velvet sky... what an amazing Creator we serve! The fact that I can read your January newsletter at this hour of the morning with a click of a button amazes me as well, and that's why I'm writing. It's ENCOURAGING to stay in touch, and that's what God tells us to do: "Encourage one another..." (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

I'm still smiling over Mark's mention of David's Christmas program blooper ("the leap shall lame!!!") I was sitting at the piano when David uttered his infamous line and I remember trying to stifle "giggle fits" (along with Sherm and Mark) as we strived to maintain our composure and continue the program. Even now, I'm LOL (laughing out loud) at the mental picture of the three "Wise Guys" grinning at each other like school boys on stage, and what JOY that thought brings! I'm SO GLAD God gave us the ability to "reminisce" -- thanks for the trip down memory lane!

Regarding David's posthumous message in this month's newsletter, God is always doing something NEW. "See, I am doing a new thing ... do you not perceive it?" (Isaiah 43:19) When I think back to the first worship service that Russ and I attended (in the old church building downtown), to the swift and complete construction of the new building, to "how things are now" after David has been called home, I see NEW written all over it -- a New Year, a new interim minister, new activities, new beginnings... David would be so proud of you, in that humble way of his.

I can say with complete confidence (from everything I've seen and read in your newsletter and website) that Cleveland Church of Christ is on the right path, even if it is a "new" one. "He who began a good work in you will be faithful to complete it." Philippians 1:6) God bless you all and Happy New Year!

Love, your friend,
Kim Bultman
Checotah, OK, USA - January 3, 2009
(former Cleveland church member)


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Hello

I was doing some family research and came upon your website. I have your church in my files as my Great Great Grandmother Fanny Caldwell Rairdon (also spelled Rardon) was one of the original charter members. I had no idea that this congregation was still so active. Too bad there is not a photo of the original members. It would be nice to have a copy.

Tell me, is the original building still standing? I see in your history that it was modified many times.

My sister is planning a trip your way next year and she will be very interested to see your church and Cleveland. I have not been there since 1963. Nelson Goldsmith was also my relation.

Best wishes,
Jeffrey A Fox
Bellingham, WA, USA - December 12, 2008


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Webmaster note: The two below posts are also posted in the separate webpage as responses to David Kester's life and death. Click here to view that webpage. They are posts 106 & 107 there.

This will be my first Christmas "away from home" -- we aren't able to get up there this year and our families are missing us, and us, them! But it gives me a chance to get more involved with our church here and that's something I missed when Russ & I were on the road.

I've been working on the Christmas program, costumes, etc. and have thought frequently of David (and Sherm & Mark) in their "Wise Men costumes." :) David told me once, "I really like that hat -- I even wear it at home sometimes!" :) I miss him, even though I know he wears a much better hat now -- the crown of Life! He impacted Russ's and my lives (and everybody's) so deeply, it's hard not to miss him. But it sounds like God is taking good care of Cleveland Church -- we knew He would!

Kim Bultman
Checotah, OK, USA - December 7, 2008
(former Cleveland church member)

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Dear Cleveland Church family
and especially David Kester's family,

I (emailed yesterday) and mentioned that this was going to be my first Christmas away from home. The thought struck me later that this will be David's first Christmas away from "home" too.

Even though David's in his heavenly home, there are so many earthly reminders of him, prompting memories and smiles (and a few tears on occasion.)

I still can't get out the Scrabble board without thinking of the game David "owes" Russ and me -- we were really looking forward to it the next time we came to Minnesota. (We're STILL looking forward to it, someday!) I also thought of David's annual Open House (which he always hosted in January) -- it was his way of saying thank you...in FOOD! :) David took great delight in GIVING!

At this time of year, these memories may seem like "more reasons to miss him," but they're really reasons to delight in the GIFT that David was to us.

May God bless you with His ongoing comfort and care,
at Christmastime and always.

Love, your friends,
Kim & Russ Bultman
Checotah, OK, USA - December 8, 2008
(former Cleveland church members)

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Hi there!

This is Jerry from the Netherlands, hope some of you still remember me. I got the newsletter and read that my host sister Emily got baptized! Well done EM!

I enjoyed watching the VBS pictures. Connie and Brian, you guys are great pirates! I don't understand how a busy Commodore mom can decide to stop doing VBS.. It must have something to do with this years theme..

It must feel great doing nothing! "I didn't do the laundry and I didn't sell any Girl Scout cookies.." :) I'm wondering how long this is gonna last.

Well, have a great summer vacation and God Bless!

Jerry

Jaïr (better known as Jerry)
Groningen, Netherlands – July 11, 2008

Webmaster note: Jerry was an exchange student here at Cleveland for the school year 2000-2001. The 2008 VBS theme was "The Pirates Who Don't Do Anything."


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hey cleveland church team!

I like your homepage very much and I'm really looking forward to my time in your beautiful community!

I greet my wonderful host family Philipps, especially Sheila, Dave and Daniel !!!

See you,
Nico

Nicolas Jäger
Freiburg, Germany - March 7, 2008


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Dear saints,

I was just surfing the net and came across this well designed and informative website of the Church of Christ in Cleveland, MN. I have loved the pictures and will pray for everyone who participated. May God bless you with the blessings of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.

Subject: Prayers

Please stand with us (the church in Kenya) in prayer because we need divine intervention to solve a political stalemate which has let to intertribal clashes. So far, 800 lives have been lost. We are still strong in the Lord believing that God will save us from this chaos.

Daniel M

B..., Kenya - February 2, 2008


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Hi Betty,

Just a note to say the new format on the website looks great! Thanks for all your work.

David

David Kester
Cleveland, MN, USA - January 29, 2008
(Cleveland church pastor)

 
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Hi - my name is Bobby Walton

I go to the Billings Mt Church of Christ

I was just going thru the Internet where I found your Church

it's is good to know that if I ever go there, Cleveland, Minnesota, I will know were I can attend Church

Bobby Walton
Billings, MT, USA - January 14, 2008


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People are very nice here I have moved here from Arkansas
and they are all friendly.

Lisa Corley
Cleveland, MN, USA - June 25, 2007


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You guys are awesome!

Church of Christ shows that loving each other with the love of Christ impacts a community

In my year in the US (already 6 years ago..) your church made me feel sooo welcome. I'll always remember!

Have a good one!
and we will see each other again!

Love,

Jaïr (better known as Jerry)
Groningen, Netherlands – June 24, 2007


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Nice site.

Said
Japan - June 8,2007


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Hi my brothers and sisters I really need your prayers this week for strength as i find myself homeless in NYC at 61 years of age and feeling very very tired.

GOD richly bless you.

Brother Danny

Daniel Cahill
New York City, NY, USA - April 16, 2007


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Many Godly and loving greetings to all the Elders and members at Cleveland Church of Christ. I am Vandan Kumar, preacher from Miyapur Church of Christ, South India. On behalf of all the brothers and sisters in our local church, I am sending hearty greetings to you all. We also request your loving prayers. We need your love and encouragement in our Lord's work. God bless you all Richly.

In Christ,

Vandan Kumar.U
Miyapur Church of Christ
Hyderabad, AP, South India – Feb 28, 2007


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New Year's Greetings

We so miss our dear friends at church. We are attending an evangelical Lutheran church each Sunday with Dayton's daughter and son-in-law. We'll see you in a few weeks.

Love to all!

Joann and Dayton Hale – January 1, 2007
Wintering in Mesa, AZ, USA
(Cleveland church members)

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Just surfing the net when I found your site.
I believe I'm on the "Cradle Roll" of your church, dating May 19, 1939. My father, Noah Hall, was the pastor.

Webmaster note:
Noah Hall and his family ministered
with our congregation 1939 – 1942.
See Noah Hall pictures

You have a good looking web site.
Yours in Christ,

Leland Hall
Eugene, OR, USA - November 8, 2006


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What a great site

Christopher
New York City, NY, USA – Sept 25, 2006

"I call to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and I am saved from my enemies."

God is great. (My) desire again today (is) that (he) protect us in his love and power from all evil attacks. Help (from him) that many may find him. Pray for blessed revival soon.

Thanks and bless.

keijo
Sweden – July 27, 2006


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Wonderful and informative web site.

I used information from the site. It’s great.

Nancy
New York City, NY, USA - July 12, 2006


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God is awesome!

Jean
Ohio, USA - May 13, 2006


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Gut! Sehr schoen seite! ^^ Wirklich! :)

Wikipedia – April 30, 2006

Webmaster note:
Translation German to English:

Well! Very beautiful site! ^^ Real ! :)


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This is my first time looking at what (your) church has on the web. You sure have a pretty building and wonderful bunch of people.

I am a member of the Central Church of Christ and love the Lord very much. May God bless you and keep you safe.

In his love,

Mildred Madison
Cleveland, TN, USA - March 20, 2006



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Great web site...

Thanks for all your prayers, cards & letters during my wife Amy's health problems...She is now on the mend and doing good....

It's been a great experience for me to be a part of our new building program....

May God bless you all.

Art Poll
Cleveland, MN, USA - February 9, 2006
(Cleveland church member)

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You have a beautiful church building. Besides your building, your church has lots of important activities which will surely benefit your congregation. Keep it up.

Meechang Tuie
Malaysia - October 21, 2005


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What a blessing!

I appreciate the picture also, brings the church alive on the web!

Wonderful (sermon) page on THE CHURCH LOVES: LOVE SEEKS, very moving and inspirational.

Continued success with your church.

Sally
California, USA - July 20, 2005

Webmaster note: Read the sermon here
THE CHURCH LOVES: LOVE SEEKS



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It is exciting to see how my home church continues to grow - not only expanding into another building. It's great seeing people be excited in helping others, growing closer to God, creating more outreach programs, and donating so much time in the work of the Lord.

Continue on and inspire others!

Kristin Zarling
Rochester, MN, USA - June 2, 2005
(former Cleveland church member)

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Thank you for reaching out and helping the Cox's with their apple trees and their orchard.

We just saw the Le Center Leader article about the Cox's Orchard tree planting day. Our cousins, Rick and Tracy Griffith, (Bill's daughter), sent it to us.

Your church really knows how to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Blessings to you all from your friends in Christ.

Keith and Melissa Engman
Austin, TX, USA - May 6, 2005


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We sure like reading all about our favorite church family. Miss you all.

The new church looks beautiful and so big.

We hope to visit you on a Sunday some day soon.

Denny and Sheri Cole
Ormsby, MN, USA - March 4, 2005

(formerly attended the Cleveland church)

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Hi,

It is so exciting to hear you are meeting in your new church already! I have been able to finally access your new website today and wanted to send my greetings!

May the Cleveland local church family continue to see as Jesus would see and to serve as He would. It is evident the Lord is blessing your congregation for your steadfastness!

God bless you.

Julie Nelson
Phoenix, AZ, USA - March 1, 2005


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Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Rupe Group.

May God's richest blessings continue to flow through our congregation.

The Rupe family motto is taken from Joshua 24:15-"...as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

May it be ever so.

Sherm, Jo and David Rupe
Madison Lake, MN, USA - December 22, 2004

(Cleveland church members)

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Great work.

We are really excited to hear of what is happening in Cleveland.

Wish we could be with you all. We love you much.

Dale & Linda Marshall

Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe, Africa - Dec 20, 2004

(former Cleveland church pastor & wife, now missionaries)

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Isn't it exciting to see the new building?

I'm truly blessed to be part of the Cleveland Church of Christ family.

See you Sunday!

Pam Aanas
Le Center, MN, USA - December 16, 2004

(Cleveland church member)

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Hi Church of Christ in Cleveland, MN,

I am glad to see you have a website.

Today is Saturday, December 11, 2004.
Praise the LORD tomorrow!

Betty Lloyd
Cleveland, MN, USA - December 11, 2004

(Cleveland church member, webmaster)

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