University Bible Fellowship

Shepherdess Julie recorded the audio narration for a video introducing UBF Press. Dr. John Jun will present the video at Continental Directors’ Conferences around the world over the next 90 days.  Sarah sang with the CRMS Choir at the Stage Coach Theater before the night’s performance of “A Christmas Carol”.  Jennifer participated in the DeKalb Corn Classic Forensics Tournament and took 2^nd Place in the Poetry Novice Division.   Andrew spread holiday joy by singing with the Music Fraternity at the DeKalb County Nursing Home. 

Pastor Kevin finished the second draft of the drama for the Chicago Area Christmas Worship Service.  He, Augustine and Mark sang with the Kish-Wau-Key Barbershoppers for nursing home residents at Heritage Woods. Andrew accompanied the University Jazz Band on piano during their final recital for the Fall Semester.  Jennifer sang and performed with a select group of DHS students at the Illinois Music Educators Associate (IMEA) District VIII Music Festival all day Saturday.  Tim has been spending longer days on campus working hard to master 3 courses this semester.

Last week, Shepherdess Julie hosted a Pray for Europe night. The Misurac and Hull families joined NIU UBF coworkers at MKS, and we reviewed photos from our European journeys together this summer. We also celebrated the recent marriage of Shepherd Matt & Christian Misurac with chocolate cake! Andrew was officially initiated into the Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia Fraternity at NIU, and played piano at two Fraternity recitals. Pastor Kevin was chosen to write the drama for the Chicago-area Christmas Worship Service.  Tim is working hard with renewed zeal to conquer engineering studies.

Kevin and Julie spent time at NIU campus inviting students to bible study and met Mario, Cody and Victoria.  Though the Autumn leaves  are still falling, everyone worked hard raking leaves.  The Jesmers participated in the Open Mic/ Coffee House at DeKalb Christian Church.  Andrew’s tennis club played a tournament in Rockford and took first place.  Shepherdess Julie finished her European Trip scrapbook and is anxious to share it tonight.

Last week, Augustine had his first basketball games of the season. This weekend, NIU Fellowship held our annual Halloween Alternative Night at the bible house.  We watched a movie called “Faith Like Potatoes”, about a farmer who became a Minister to the Zulu people of South Africa.  Afterward we had pizza, played games, and enjoyed an evening of great fellowship in the light.

Last week Andrew performed in the University Jazz Concert a concert at NIU, which was webcast simultaneously at www.niu.edu.  His parents, grandparents and brother were in attendance and were quite proud of him!  The NIU Tennis Club played a tennis tournament in Wisconsin and won half their matches. The Jesmer kids attended the Spooky Science Saturday hosted by the Science Department at NIU.  Sycamore’s annual Pumpkin Fest kicked off this week, signaling the official start of Fall.

Last week pastor Kevin and Julie attended the USA staff conference in Columbus, OH. The theme of the conferences was house church ministry. Jennifer tried out for IMEA Chorus in Sterling, Sarah made the Poms Squad and Augi made the CRMS basketball team.

Last week, Shs. Julie’s company unexpectedly sent her to Philadelphia and Canada on a business trip.  Founder’s Day was held at Chicago UBF, focusing on the work of God in 22 nations of Latin America.  Tim’s friend Jason Havey danced with NEIU Hispanic co-workers as their prayer for the pioneering of 11 more countries, beginning with Jamaica & Haiti.  The Jesmers also blessed the wedding of Matthew and Christian Misurac.  Andrew and the NIU Tennis Team participated in a tournament in Wisconsin.  The team played well, took third place and beat three other teams. Sarah had a choir concert at DHS. May she use her singing ability for God’s glory.  Tim is working hard to stay on top of 4 classes and praying to get a job this month as a top priority.

Last week, the Jesmers went to DeKalb Christian Church’s monthly “Open Mike Fellowship” on Saturday night. We met many people and played games with them.  We sang over 10 songs and listened to other praise musicians play music. By God’s grace, we can co work with them and plan to attend next month’s event also. Friday was Pastor Kevin’s birthday, and we had a party for him at Famous Dave’s restaurant in Naperville. Brett and Sohee Procek and their kids joined us, as did Tim and Amanda Zito.  October is also Pastor Appreciation Month. We thank God for Pastor Kevin’s life and ministry!

Last week, Jenn helped to organize the DHS annual See-You-At-the-Pole event.  It was a good opportunity for Christians at DHS to step out and identify themselves, and plans were made to continue in fellowship and start a campus club.  Also, the NIU UBF Praise Band played at the Triple Band Blowout at Triton College, together with Triton & DuPage UBF’s.  IIT and West Loop bands played, and many from all local UBF ministries attended.  Daveed initiated restoration of bible study after 2 years, meeting up with Pastor Kevin in Rockford this week.  On Saturday, the NIU Tennis Club led by Andrew played at their first Meet, which they won!

Last week, the Jesmers went to a Barbershop Potluck at Chief Shabonna State Park on Sunday afternoon, where the group sang, including Mark, Augustine and Pastor Kevin.  Jennifer initiated a See-You-At-The-Pole event at DHS with a Facebook campaign. The Praise Bands from Triton and DuPage UBF came to NIU UBF to practice for the Triple Band Blowout next Friday night.   

Last week, the Jesmers attended the Waterman Presbyterian Church on Sunday morning, in order to hear Dr. John and Esther Prabhakar speak on missions in India.  After their talk, we learned about the arranged marriage and caste systems in India, and how to tie sari-style clothing.  We also went hiking at Starved Rock on Labor Day and experienced God’s majesty through his creation.  Both Jenn and Sarah made the Madrigal choir at school to develop their singing talents.  Andrew hosted try-outs for the NIU Tennis Club.  There was a healthy turn-out and Andrew prays to introduce Jesus to his players as well.  Tim and Andrew participated in the Praise Concert practice on Saturday at Triton.

Yesterday Sarah celebrated her 12^th birthday at Navy Pier and Olive Park beach in Chicago. Six young girls came, and Amanda and Tricia helped out. Also, Tim got a job working as an alumni telemarketer.  The semester started Monday and everyone was very excited to get back to school at NIU, DHS, CRMS and Jefferson.  Each of our students were challenged to have a new beginning, and to spend more prime time devoted to doing homework and keeping up with readings.

Shepherdess Julie and Tim experienced the hope of God for themselves at the ESBC, and visited UBF chapters in UK, Czech Republic and Poland. The Jesmer family attended the DeKalb Annual Corn Fest.  Fall Semester begins for NIU and DeKalb schools tomorrow.  The kids are going to bed earlier to wake up earlier for daily bread before school, and have a prayer to lead their classmates to Christ.  Andrew Norte moved back in the bible house, and Tim may have gotten a job on campus.

Last week, NIU and DuPage UBF ministries had a joint summer bible conference at Hamburger University in Oakbrook. It was a great work of God. There were 45 attendants who all participated with their whole hearts. NIU coworkers did the India dance and prepared a PowerPoint presentation.  Both ministries co-worked on a beautiful drama about the life of Levi the tax collector before meeting Jesus.   Everyone had fun swimming, exploring, and going to the McDonalds museum.  From NIU, we brought 17 people, including the Swicks, Miranda Forde, Heather Byerly, Peyton Eitel, and Jackie Garland. Also, Jennifer started a new job, pollinating corn in the field for 3 weeks. Pray that she learns many things through this opportunity.

Last week, NIU participated in Triton’s 20^th year anniversary. People flew in from Seattle and Florida to see the work of God through triton for twenty years. Kathlene, Brett and Sohee Procek and family came from NIU UBF. Also, COD came to DeKalb to prepare music for the conference. The Jesmers went to a birthday party for Camilo, while Jennifer, Shp Kevin and Tim going to COD for a messengers meeting. Miranda Forde had good fellowship with Sarah.

Last week the Jesmer family traveled to Manitoba and to Minneapolis/St. Paul Minnesota. The purpose of their journey was two fold. First, they wanted to show the love of God to Kevin’s aging parents and his other family members. Second, they wanted to visit the two UBF chapters in Minneapolis/St Paul. Before leaving Winnipeg they prayed on the campus of the U of Manitoba and reflected on the work of God there in the past. On Sunday they worshipped at the Church headed up by Dr Abraham T. Kim. They could share their 2009 key verses and a report on NIU pioneering work. They also went to the campus of U of Minnesota to pray for the 55,000 students. Later they visited the house church of  Dr Charles and Happy Sarah Kim. There, they had a barbeque and prayed for the students of St Paul. Tim Sagel joined DuPage UBF’s Friday meeting and Sunday service in order to build prepare for the upcoming Joint Summer Bible Conference.

NIU students started summer term this week, and Tim began taking 2 classes.  Tim started working on his message for the SBC and demonstrated practical love for his family by attending a Family Reunion in Schaumburg.  We had a bonfire after World Mission Night on Wednesday night which Heather joined. The Jesmer kids participated in a 4-H Project Day at the DeKalb Ag Bureau.  The boys learned bike safety and made rocket launchers, while Sarah and Jennifer went to a beginning photography workshop led by a professional photographer.  Sarah joined Miranda’s family’s vacation on a cruiser boat at the Illinois River.  Jennifer and Sarah are praying for Heather and Miranda to participate in our summer conference & to grow in personal faith.

NIU students started summer term this week, and Tim began taking 2 classes.  Tim started working on his message for the SBC and demonstrated practical love for his family by attending a Family Reunion in Schaumburg.  We had a bonfire after World Mission Night on Wednesday night which Heather joined. The Jesmer kids participated in a 4-H Project Day at the DeKalb Ag Bureau.  The boys learned bike safety and made rocket launchers, while Sarah and Jennifer went to a beginning photography workshop led by a professional photographer.  Sarah joined Miranda’s family’s vacation on a cruiser boat at the Illinois River.  Jennifer and Sarah are praying for Heather and Miranda to participate in our summer conference & to grow in personal faith.

Last week, Julie’s brother and his family came to DeKalb and stayed for 2 days. We, along with Tim and Heather went to the Brookfield Zoo, and marveled at the wonders of God’s creation. The Jesmers later went to downtown Chicago and went sight-seeing with the Nugents. The Jesmers spent time at Navy Pier and also went on an architectural boat tour along the Chicago River. It was very exciting. We pray that our time with family may have revealed the love of God to them and may they all meet Jesus personally.

Mark’s 3^rd grade class put on a reader’s theater at school, and Mark played the old man in a Russian folktale called “The Golden Fish.” Grade school ended on Friday, for the summer. Shepherdess Julie and Andrew drove Jenn and two friends, Diana and Maddie, to Indianapolis to a “Cold Play” concert. It took 6 hours each way to drive, but the three girls were moved to witness love expressed in a promise kept by a mother. Kevin and went fishing for students on campus with a few of his kids.

Monday was the final day of the Women’s Conference at West Loop, “Great in God’s Sight”, attended by 60 women from 5 UBF ministries, aged 9 to 60. NIU UBF members spent Memorial Day at Triton, where we commemorated true freedom with a message, prayer, song and a BBQ. Jenn turned 15 on Tuesday – Happy Birthday, Jenn! – and is looking forward to Drivers Ed. DuPage UBF coworkers drove out to DeKalb for joint prayer, testimony sharing and discussion regarding the content of our upcoming SBC. To celebrate the end of the CRMS Choir season, Sarah joined about 200 young people on a field trip to Great America on Saturday.

On Wednesday, the Jesmers joined the community Fit Fest sponsored by the YMCA. Pastor Kevin and Jenn traveled to DuPage UBF on Friday and shared testimony to build co-working for our upcoming joint summer conference.  Sarah performed at Boutel Hall on the NIU campus with the Middle School Choir.  Shepherdess Julie attended the Daily Bread Writers’ Meeting at the Chicago Center on Saturday, on behalf of Pastor Kevin who has joined the Writers’ team. Afterward, the UBF Publication committee discussed the publication of 1^st and 2^nd Corinthians books, as well as how to organize and print Mother Barry’s Daily Bread series.

Last week, Augustine, Sarah, Mark and Hope took photos and turned in their applications for their U.S. Passports.   May God accept this as our family’s prayer to use these passports for future world mission. NIU ministry joined DuPage ministry for testimony sharing on Friday and discussed sites for the upcoming joint conference. Andrew and Tim attended testimony sharing at Triton UBF and prayed for our coworkers there.   On Saturday, the Jesmer family took the train downtown to Chicago and visited the Art Institute, Chicago Harbor, and Grant Park. 

Last week, NIU students completed their Final Exams and Tim & Andrew headed home to work for the summer. Tim will be back in one month. Both Sarah’s and Hope’s art was on display at the School District 428 Art Show. Also, the Jesmer kids went to and saw the movie “Facing the Giants” shown at the Egyptian Theatre sponsored by Victory Baptist Church. It was a great outreach. Kevin sang Barbershop at a local retirement center. Trish and Camillo went to Guatemala to visit his family.

Last week, Jenn Jesmer preformed in the high school play, Les Miserables.  Jenn gave her whole heart and did a great job even with a small part. Also, Sarah and Hope went to a Science Siesta overnight event at the Burpee Museum in Rockford, sponsored by the U of I Extension. Augustine spent two days in Springfield on a class trip, and learned a lot about history and leadership. Mark and Augustine went fishing with Pastor Kevin, and met Srikanih Adiraju, a Master’s student from India.  NIU students are preparing for Finals and Tim and Andrew are studying hard.

Mark participated in a class poetry reading and writing project at school on Thursday.  Friday night Sarah had 6 of her friends over for an evening of fun and junk food.  Augustine and Hope spent Friday night at the Swicks and Jenn attended a bonfire at Heather’s.  On Saturday, Kathleen initiated the first NIU  UBF 4H Class with an introduction to Journalism, Visual Arts and Robotics courses.  This afternoon Pastor Kevin is joining at Kish-Wau-Keys Annual Spring Sing at Sycamore High School.

Last week, Andrew Norte attended a tennis tournament in Surprise, AZ.

Also, Abby Swick had fellowship with the Jesmers and attended daily bread at the Bible house on Saturday morning.  Afterward, all the kids went to the YMCA and had a lot of fun learning about fitness and celebrating the anniversary of the YMCA. Janice Thiele visited Julie today and prayed with her.

Preparations for our joint Triton-NIU Easter Conference at Timber-Lee were in full swing, including drama, dance and praise practice for many hours.  Wednesday night, six brothers and sisters from Triton UBF traveled to NIU to join a prayer meeting and we enjoyed dinner fellowship together. Friday night, NIU Fellowship went to Triton for practices. NIU prays to offer a dramatic dance as our prayer for this conference. Saturday night Hope participated in the Vietnamese Student Association annual heritage night with Mandee Halick. 

Tuesday night, a UBF Publication Committee meeting was held at the Jesmers.  Msn Mark Yang, Msn Deborah Lim, and Shs. Franscesca Park came out to DeKalb.  The Jesmers sang a special song and each shared their annual year key verse with 3 prayer topics.  Mandee Halick joined and Tim baked a delicious apple pie from scratch.  Friday night we had a bonfire and great fellowship together, including Sarah’s friend Miranda Forde.

Shs. Julie and Tricia Reynoso had a good, old-fashioned sleepover and Bible study on Thursday night at the Jesmers.  Saturday night, the Nortes, the Alonzos and one other family from Genoa came out to China House to celebrate Andrew’s Dad’s (Michael) birthday.   Pastor Teddy and Pastor Kevin began planning for our joint Easter Conference at Timber Lee, Wisconsin.

Andrew traveled to another city with the NIU Tennis Club for a tournament. NIU students completed mid-terms this week. Tim testified that through restoring his first love, God gave him new love for engineering problem-solving. Julie had two days off this week and used the time to begin writing the Jesmer Housechurch story and to revise half of her Genesis question sheets.

Last week, Tuesday grew one year older. Happy Birthday, Andrew! On Friday, several people gathered at the Bible House to watch "Slum Dog Millionaire". Abby spent the night at our house and joined our Daily Bread meeting on Saturday morning. With great joy, we had a surprise visit from Brett & Sohee Procek, their friend John, who joined us for Group Bible study while all the kids played together. Afterward we had beautiful fellowship at China House over dinner.

Last week, Andrew grew one year older. Happy Birthday, Andrew! On Friday, several people gathered at the Bible House to watch ‘Slum Dog Millionaire’. Abby spent the night at our house and joined our Daily Bread meeting on Saturday morning. With great joy, we had a surprise visit from Brett & Sohee Procek, and their friend John, who joined us for Group Bible study. Afterward we had beautiful fellowship at China House over dinner. Julie attended Janice’s daughter Saige’s first birthday party and Julie visited Mother Barry. Jay & Carrie were sent out to start a work among the Latin community near Calvary Church in Carpentersville, near Elgin.

Last week, Pastor Kevin preformed at a barbershop concert at Pinewood Acres nursing home. The Jesmer’s went to a conference at school, the Students Involved with Technology (SIT). They learned about the technology in their world, including Hollywood greens screen, Robotics, and other sites on the internet. Andrew left for home for his birthday. On Saturday, Valentines Day, the Jesmer’s, Carrie, and Tim went to a memorial at NIU for the fallen students.

Last week, the Jesmers visited Rock Valley College in Rockford. We looked around and prayed on the campus. Josh and Mary Jeon visited from UIC UBF. Suzie had her first Bible study with Carrie.  Andrew’s Tennis Group officially became a club at NIU. In movie fellowship on Friday,  we watched ‘Pink Panther 2’ and brought Miranda Forde. Hope spent the night at Abby’s house. Jay had Bible study with Anthony and Danny on Genesis 1b.

Last week the Jesmers and Hope’s friend Kendall attended the annual DeKalb-Sycamore Basketball game at the Convo Center.  Andrew attended a Music Educator’s conference in Purdue and spent the night with U of I co-workers in Champagne.  Sarah spent the weekend with her friend Sarah LaCoppola, and attending worship service at Grace Bible Church today. The Irwin’s succeeded in setting up their new apartment, and are using their home to serve others by hosting a Super Bowl party.

Jay and Carrie moved into their new apartment, and on Saturday Andrew, Tim, Julie and the kids helped out cleaning and painting.   Jennifer also participated in a Forensics Competition at Geneva High School, where she made progress toward being a more persuasive speaker.  During Friday Fellowship, we gathered at the Jesmer’s house and watched “Saving Sarah Cain”.  Afterward we all went to Baker’s Square and enjoyed pie and ice cream.  Jay had his first Bible study with Daniel Smith, who also brought his friend Mark to Bible study.

Tricia Reynoso began teaching her friend Cecelia Garcia the bible on Tuesday night.

Andrew, Tim and 25,000 NIU students returned to campus for the Spring Semester. Due to an arctic cold belt straight from western Canada, life in the Midwest has been reduced to a standstill, and all DeKalb schools were closed Thursday and Friday. Jenn prepared well for Finals, but gained 5 extra days to study due to the closure. Kathleen returned from her cruise in Mexico and officially started her new job at Kishwaukee Hospital. Jay and Carrie left for Los Angeles, where Jay delivered the eulogy at his grandfather’s funeral and the Irwins attended Downey UBF Sunday worship service.

Jennifer has been studying for finals next week. Please pray for good grades. Tim Sagel has come back from winter break and is looking for a job. Andrew is back too. Kathleen and her kids came back from a rejuvenating cruise to Mexico. Jay Irwin sang hymns at a nursing home in DeKalb. Kevin and Julie attended the annual “Ladies Night Out” for the barbershop quartet. Carrie is adjusting to a new teaching position, and praying to serve Youth Ministry.

Jennifer attended the NIU-Triton-Toledo JBF Conference and enjoyed skiing fellowship.  NIU Coworkers rang in the New Year at Triton UBF with games, music, fireworks and video.  Carrie attended the Young Disciples Conference at Miracle Camp in Michigan with young people from all over North America, January 1-3rd.  Kathleen, Abraham and Emily drove to Louisiana early Wednesday to set sail on a cruise ship for 6 days with extended family. 

Last week, we could gather with our church family at Triton UBF and celebrate Christmas with them. We had the service on Triton Campus. Pastor Teddy delivered a message on Micah 5:1-5a. We learned that when Jesus rules our hearts we can have true security and peace. We were hosted by Triton UBF to the Old Country Buffet. A big “Thank you” to them. We had our “Midnight Mass” watching a Christmas drama from Willow Creek on DVD, singing carols and praying. Phil Glatz, Jay and Carrie, joined us. Christmas Day was spent at the Dallal’s. Five families joined in the festivities. Phil Glatz came. Jay and Carrie spent time with family. Tim and Andrew were back at home with family and friends and Triton UBF. It was a full and satisfying Christmas. Kathleen was hired on Y1 as an RN. Now…onto New Year’s.

This week was a week of celebration. We celebrated the establishing of two Jesus centered house churches and the birth of our Savior, Jesus. As a fellowship we attended two weddings. The first is the wedding of Ian Turner and Mercy Jacinto. Ian has been a shepherd at Triton UBF for many years. Mercy is from our Manila UBF chapter. The second was the wedding of Jeremy Hajek and Susanna Chung. Jeremy has been a leader at our DuPage UBF in Chicago. Susanna was a fulltime Bible teacher at Kwanak 3 in South Korea. Read to what was posted on the www.UBF.org web site, �At 4 p.m. Dr. John Jun blessed the house church between S. Jeremy Hajek from COD and Susanna Chung (Kwanak 3) with John 12:24 " A Kernel of wheat." Dr. John Jun introduced the life testimony of S. Jeremy born on Nov 11, 1979. S. Jeremy used to live a directionless life but now his purpose became to live as a kernel of wheat for campus ministry and world mission. S. Susanna used to live as a selfish life as a SNU student. She has also served as a short term missionary to Germany. She served also as a full time shepherd in Kwanwak 3rd chapter. In Purdue Conference in 2008 she came out to the stage with the other 500 people who decided to live as missionaries. God is now establishing a missionary house church for US campus mission. May God bless this house church to bear much fruit through imitating the life of Jesus who lived as a kernel of wheat.�

We pray for these two new families to be fruitful house churches who can reveal the glory of Jesus to a world in need. NIU choir could perform at both weddings. They sang a song called, �Your Word� written by Jim Winder, off of his CD, �The Hard But Right Way.� They played at these two weddings plus at the Triton UBF Christmas service. The Triton Christmas service was held on the Triton College Campus on Sunday 12/21/08. Pastor Teddy delivered a message on Micah 5:1-5a. It was a message of hope. Jesus, born in manger, is the Ruler of our hearts and lives. He brings true security and peace to any who put their faith in him. God sent 11 people through our NIU ministry. Afterwards many of us went to the �Old Country Buffet� and had a delicious meal together, hosted by Triton UBF. The kids appreciated the time spent with other kids of Triton UBF. We also enjoyed fellowship with Yvette Shin from NYU UBF. (in New York). We thank God for helping us to live a life of perpetual celebration because of the grace of our Lord Jesus.

The participants at the Christmas Worship Service had fellowship at Wright UBF with young disciples on Saturday. Please pray for a very successful Christmas Worship Service where Jesus is glorified and 1200 people may renew their relationship with him. On Friday, Shs. Julie hosted her annual company Christmas Party in Naperville. She is a true servant of all. Tim and Andrew are studying hard for their finals next week. They should be done by Thursday. Please pray for A marks. Kathleen left for Georgia for the week to visit her daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren. May God grant her clarity of direction. Jay and Carrie are continuing on with their job search. May God give them clear direction also. The kids are full of Christmas spirit and enjoying sledding with their friends.

Pastor Kevin assisted the Drama Team by working with Pastor Teddy on the Christmas Drama. It was a great blessing!  Tim and Shs. Julie attended a prayer meeting for the Chicago Area Christmas Worship service and Shs. Julie led a group Bible study with 8 young people participating.  Andrew led the NIU Tennis Club to another match in Wisconsin this Saturday.  Ask him how they did!  Sarah attended “Modest is Hottest” a sleep over conference at CCC for young people, promoting inner spiritual beauty in the hearts of our young girls. Jennifer tried to attend God’s Athete’s HS Christian club. She showed up but there was no meeting. God sees her heart and she set a good example. Tim and Andrew continue with finals.

We went to Joe Caligado’s memorial service at Living Hope Church in Elk Grove Village. We celebrated his life and showed God’s love to his family members. May God give them Christ’s comfort and hope. Tim and Andrew had exam’s and with Gods grace, they overcame them. Augustine and Sarah met in their middle school for their Bible club after school. On Friday, we watched  the movie “Abraham” and we learned about his life of faith.  

Shps. Julie attended a Meeting Planners night out on Wednesday, made some friends and networked. Pray for her to grow as a religious meeting planner for the growing work of God. On Saturday, Dr. Charles & Little Sarah Kim, from Chicago UBF, attended Mandee Halick’s Japanese Night-in at the International House. They also visited the NIU Bible House, and prayed for NIU ministry. Andrew continued to build up the NIU Tennis Club, and invited many of the members to worship service. Both Tim and Andrew are struggling hard to overcome their schools studies for the glory of Jesus and the advancement of His Kingdom.

On Friday, Halloween, we had our Halloween Alternative Night Blowout, “Bring On The Light Of Jesus.” We learned about the light of Jesus, and some people from Triton came. Also, Hope’s friend Abby came. We all had a great time making s’mores, singing praise and worship, and having fellowship. Jackie, Pastor Kevin’sfellow nurse, came to Group Bible Study on Saturday. Andrew led 12 of his tennis club members to Marquette University for a tournament.

On Friday, Halloween, we had our Halloween Alternative Night Blowout, “Bring On The Light Of Jesus.” We learned about the light of Jesus, and some people from Triton came. Also, Hope’s friend Abby came. We all had a great time making s’mores, singing praise and worship, and having fellowship. Jackie, Pastor Kevin’sfellow nurse, came to Group Bible Study on Saturday. Andrew led 12 of his tennis club members to Marquette University for a tournament.

Last week we finished our Hannah’s Faithbook Bible School. God sent 43 people through our doors, 21 people were local people. God has been blessing our Bible Schools faithfully. Andrew started up a tennis club at NIU. 16 people showed up at the first meeting. He had lunch with two of them and prayed before their meal. Tim studied hard and focused and overcame a difficult exam. The kids joined Tim and Andrew for a fellowship night at the Bible house. May it grow to include many students. UBF was represented at a Kimnet conference in LA. Many of our leaders attended.

The 1^st Samuel Bible School started on Thursday. We spent a lot of time preparing for the Bible School. Tim and Andrew finished their midterm exams and overcame them all by faith. Andrew is doing well at his new job of teaching the piano. He also started up the NIU tennis club.

On Tuesday, Pastor Kevin & Julie celebrated their 16^th wedding anniversary. They went on a dockside cruise at Navy Pier and watched “Fireproof” a movie about building a firm marriage in Christ. Andrew had his first musical concert and his playing was awesome!!  On Thursday, Sarah had her first choir concert at the high school. It was awesome!  May she use her talents for the glory of God. Friday night, Julie heard Joni Tada speak by video at the True Woman Conference in Schaumburg. Also, Sarah willingly joined Group Bible Study for her first time and she wants to participate continuously. Praise God for her commitment.

Pastor Kevin had his birthday on Thursday. Tim and Andrew helped us celebrate at Appleby’s.  On Friday, we had movie night at the Bible House and had a great time. Andrew started up a tennis club at NIU. Pray for him to reach out to fellow tennis players . Also, we have started to prepare for the 1^st Samuel Bible school where we will be studying about Hannah. Please pray for those among us who are suffering due to the latest cold virus.  

Shps. Julie visited Berkeley UBF worship service and had fellowship with Sh. Mark and Shs. Christine Moran, and Msn’s Elijah and Ruth Son, encouraging their house churches. She also visited Cal Berkeley campus to visit her nephew Corey, a Theater Production student.  Saturday night was the long-anticipated Praise Band Blow-Out hosted by UIC at the Student Center on campus, called “Rock Of Our Salvation.” God sent his Spirit and blessed the concert abundantly.

Last week Shps. Julie went to California to celebrate her mother’s birthday and share the gospel with her family. While there, she went to service at Berkley UBF, near San Francisco. There she worship with Mark and Christine Moran’s family and Elijah and Ruth Son’s family. She could also visit with our nephew, Cory, who studies at Berkley. On Friday, we had a movie night at the Bible house and had great fellowship where Tim and Andrew could serve.  Sh. Kevin had a concert singing with the Barber Shop singers.  The Jesmer’s went to Triton UBF and had good fellowship with Triton UBF and U of C co-workers. Augustine is learning many spiritual lessons from football these days.

This past week the NIU-UBF praise band has been practicing hard for their upcoming gig with COD-UBF. They are teaming up with other praise bands at the UIC “Praise Band Blowout” on Sept 27. May God use all of their talents for the glory of God. Tim, Andrew and Mandee are getting settled into their studies and learning how to juggle their academic and spiritual lives. May they find the right balance to always include Jesus during their school years. Devon, an art student, is studying Ecclesiastes every week on campus. Tim and Andrew are studying 1 Samuel. We are still praying to be an official student group on campus. The kids are trying out different clubs, Augustine is into football, Jen is into stage hand work for drama, Sarah is into choir. I pray that God may use all these club to hone the many gifts that God has given them and they can use them for the glory of God. Continue to pray for us at NIU UBF.

On Labor Day, the Jesmer’s, Tim and Jake and Abby went to Honey Hill Farm. Afterward, we went to Hopkins Park Pool and grilled. We learned that this day is not just to commemorate workers and pregnant women. We thanked God for all those who work hard to build up our nation and the work of God. We had great fellowship!   Bret Procek visited Pastor Kevin and they went to the campus and fished, studied the bible, and prayed together. Several of our members succumbed to a cold. We pray for a speedy recovery.

The first full week of school happened. Our students all settled in and visions of Bible Clubs danced through their heads. We got the papers to start a student group on NIU campus! If not now…when? On Saturday, the Jesmer’s, Jake, Abby and Tim went to Cabana Charlie’s to celebrate Augustine’s 12^th birthday. We celebrated Augustine’s life and prayed for him to be great man of God. We also had a great time! Andrew, Tim, and Jen practiced with DuPage UBF, at COD, for the UIC praise band blowout on 9/27. They sound great!

Ted and Della Jesmer, Kevin's parents visited and we had a stay-cation. We pray for them to have a personal love relationship with Jesus. Andrew Norte transferred to NIU from Oakton College, and is getting settled at the NIU Bible House. Andrew is pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Music Education, and joins our music program on keyboard. Pray for Tim and Andrew's common life together. Mandee Halick graduated from Taft High School in June and moved into the dorms this week. Mandee prays to help out in the ministry. We all pray to a even a small portion of her zeal and passion. Tim, Andrew and Mandee pray to begin an NIU UBF on-campus club called “Propelled by Grace� this semester.

Andy Schumake left to continue his university studies at ASU. May he

seek God’s kingdom first. Kathleen’s family is getting settled in their new apartment. Kathleen is experiencing spiritual victory and a new beginning through prayer and a decision of faith. Tim and Jennifer practiced with members of the DuPage UBF praise band in preparation for an outreach concert at UIC on September 27^th. NIU students are returning to DeKalb

for the Fall Semester beginning soon, and the Jesmer kids are getting ready for their semester. They pray for the Middle School Bible club and "God's Athletes" High School Christian club.

Augustine came back from Washington D.C. He learned about being a great leader. On Friday, the Jesmer kids went with Tim’s family to the Brookfeild Zoo and had a great time of Fellowship. On Saturday, the Jesmer’s went to the Chicago UBF Main Center and celebrated Josh Jeong's and Mary Vesekovich’s wedding. Kathleen moved into her new apartment. Tim God an A and a B on his summer classes. Andrew Norte visited and was accepted into NIU music program. He will live in the Bible house.

The Jesmers went to Walker’s Farm camp. There they learned about Jerusalem in Jesus’ time. Also the offering that week went to starving women in prison in Lebanon. Tim has God on his side because Tim got better than 90% on his mid-term exams! Praise God! Pastor Kevin finished his DB message for Purdue 08. On Friday night, we went to Triton and heard Sh. Teddy’s message on John 3:16, the key verse for the conference. They also watched an orientation presentation providing practical guidance around the big, new conference site.

Jennifer had an TAGS (Teenage Group service) orientation at Kishwaukee Hospital for her volunteer work there this Fall. May Jennifer grow to be a gracious servant leader. Also may God help Hope and Augustine to lead Abby and Jake to Jesus. God let us reach out to Tracy B. and her family through "Movie In The Park" at Hopkins park, where we saw ‘Spiderwick Chronicles’ . On Saturday, we attended Tricia and Camilo’s wedding. We pray that with God's love and help, they can grow as a family of faith and serve God together. Tim also worked hard and won the victory his midterm exams at NIU.

The Jesmers went to Midway Village and had  fellowship with Abby and Jake Swick. Tim went to Chicago to attend a GBS Leader preparation meeting for Purdue ’08.  On the 4^th of July, Abraham & Sarah’s family visited

the Jesmers for a BBQ.  We played badminton and watched the fireworks at Hopkins Park.

Shepherdess Julie’s bible student Tom LaCoppola went to Uganda for a 10-day mission trip with his church.  Tom led two groups of 100+ men each during a Pastors’ Conference, and will participate in 2 High School outreaches this week. Jenn also  had T.A.G.S. (Teenaged Group Service) volunteer training to start volunteering at the hospital. She will officially start volunteering in September.

Julie had a four day business trip to Waterloo, Ontario, and had fellowship with Waterloo UBF co-workers. Sarah reached out to her friends by hosting a sleepover and a 5^th Grade Graduation party. She is learning to lead her friends to Jesus, and

is feeling much better with her ribs. We are planning to have a book club on “The Journey”. Kathleen is progressing in her home clean up. Jen joined Triton UBF-JBF meeting on Friday and stayed with Pastor Teddy and Shp Liz. May she learn their faith. Tim started the study of 1 Samuel. Nathaniel started Genesis. Purdue 08 Conference Workers met at the Chicago UBF Center and shared reports on progress with Dr. John Jun and senior staff.

Shs. Julie desperately needed some rest and God provided it by helping her slow down and she stayed 2 nights at Mother Barry’s house. On Sunday, Brett and Sohee’s family joined our worship service and we enjoyed fellowship at China House.  Sarah had a fall off the trampoline, went to the ER and had to postpone her 5^th

grade graduation party.  Her 2 fractured ribs will require 10-12 weeks to heal. Kathleen has been making great progress in her home clean up, with help from Diane, Peter, and many others, including Tim and Augi.  Tim is working hard to raise his G.P.A. through summer school by studying hard in his two summer courses. Jen spent a two days at Triton bonding with Triton UBF coworkers. Andy is continuing to pray for clear direction this summer.

The Jesmers and Tim went to a Graduation, at Triton UBF, in honor of Jennifer and Christa. They shared their testimonies and then we had potluck and played volleyball and UNO.  It was a beautiful time. Hope and Augustine were a blessing to their friends Jake and Abby.  Andy got a job at Caputo's in Naperville. Julie and Kevin walked their 1^st 5k race.  The Jesmer’s went to Morton Arboretum with

Tim and Miranda Forde to discover the glory of God in nature. Kathleen was visited by her daughter from New York.

Last Sunday evening, we celebrated Tim and Emily’s birthday with a feast. On Memorial Day, we attended a DeKalb Memorial Day celebration and Jenn received the American Legion Award for CRMS. We had a BBQ, went fishing and played baseball with 27 guests. Tuesday to Thursday we held our Joel bible school, with 27 attendence, including 11 from NIU and 16 from Triton. Josh shared his first testimony and we were inspired. Uma got sick, but God worked a miracle and she seems to be recovering. The Jesmers visited Brett and Sohee Procek’s family in Aurora. To have a sense of world mission, we toured a Hindu temple to better understood how to pray for people to worship the one true God. Tim was inspired to develop a Google site to share ministry photos.

Shs. Julie went to Lincoln Park for a Purdue '08 workers meeting. The kids where a blessing to their Anthony, Jasmine, and Abby.  Tim, Josh, and Andre finished their exams. They studied very hard. Andre H. studied three times last week to finish Genesis. He has entered the Genesis Hall of Fame. Next week he goes on a religious pilgrimage to Spain.  NIU held its Spring Commencement.  

  Happy Birthday:  Tim, Emily, and Jason Havey

While Pastor Kevin was sick with the flu, Shs. Julie delivered the message last Sunday.  Throughout the week, Tim and Jenn worked hard to solicit sponsors for the 30-Hour Famine, and became a source of blessing to God’s children in  Africa, raising a combined $658.

On Friday, we had fellowship at the bible house watching “Rudy”, the story of a young boy’s dream of playing football for Notre Dame. With hard work, determination and prayer, he won a victory.  Joshua attended our group bible study and has been faithful to Genesis 1-to-1 with Tim.  Tracy met for the first time with Julie and began Genesis 1-to-1.  Several of our members suffered from flu this week, and the latest sufferer is Pastor Kevin. 

Jenn attended an Illinois Congressional session in the capital, Springfield, to debate uniforms in public schools. Julie participated in a 2-day Meeting Planners’ Expo at Navy Pier.  On Saturday, Julie joined a Chicago-area Purdue 08 Conference workers’ meeting at Lincoln Park UBF.  Tim and Jennifer are really working hard in preparation for the World vision 30-Hour Famine. Mark broke his wrist, but with Gods strength he was brave.

Kathleen joined Daily Bread every day this week. On Friday, we had fellowship (joined by Suzanne) watching a documentary about Jim Elliot’s ministry and mission in Ecuador, which was continued by his wife and sister after his death. Jake and Abby spent the night and joined Sunday morning prayer meeting.  We began Spring yard work around the house, and next week Spring Cleaning at the Bible House will begin.

The Easter Celebration in Triton involved GBS led by Pastor Teddy,  worship,

a thoughtful prayer journey and a Jewish Seder that revealed Christ in the Passover.  The Jesmer kids had their Spring Break.  Relatives from California and Canada visited, including grandparents from both sides of the family.

On Friday, Shp. Kevin and Jennifer went to Triton for a planning meeting about the upcoming Easter Celebration. Tim came home from his parents house. Andy and Tim are both healing well. On Friday , Sarah , her friend Jasmine, Mark, Augi and Hope went to the movies for fellowship.

On Friday night, the kids made a great effort to call their friends and invite them to fellowship.  We filled up 3 booths at Culvers with Kathleen, Audrey, Claudia, Jasmine, Suzanne, Janelle and David.   Shps. Julie held two conference calls with Regional Managers to discuss the progress and oversight of Purdue 08 Registration. Tim worked hard, took 2 exams and kept his spiritual responsibilities despite his cold.  Andy broke his clavicle – please pray for him.