The Wonder of God's Presence!

Hello Dear Friends,

When we last connected in February, we celebrated Jonathan and David being baptized and lamented Phil’s mom passing.  Since then, so many meaningful things have transpired.  Here is a simplified summary to help you stay connected and informed when the Spirit of God nudges you to whisper a prayer for us.  Thank you for your love!  We deeply appreciate you! ❤️🙏🏻

Mom’s Funeral and Cuba

On Saturday March 2, 2024, we honoured my dear mom, Margaret Stuart Richie Mercer Styles, at a Celebration of Life service at Centennial Park Baptist Church in Grimsby.  I may be biased, but it was a beautiful service with a church filled with dear friends and family. The peace of God permeated the church.  It was tender and sweet. Some people have asked to see the service and I have a recording from a nephew who set up a stationary camera - Thank you Nathan!  If you are interested in viewing the service, CLICK HERE.

The next day, on Sunday night, Melanie, Jonathan, David and I went to Cuba for a holiday to reconnect as mom’s cancer journey was a busy and emotionally charged time.

Due to various factors, the first two days in Cuba were very difficult for Phil.  I asked for some time alone on Wednesday.  The boys went to a kid’s club, and Melanie enjoyed the ocean.  As I opened my laptop to write in my autobiography, mom’s funeral details were still on my screen.  I couldn’t help but relive the precious memories...  Then I opened my autobiography. I reread my last entries that were about mom. While all of this was happening, a song entitled “Praise” was playing and a tremendous sense of holiness and peace came upon me.  As I wept, the tender presence of God filled every fibre of my body.  When I got together with my family later that afternoon, I was a different person.

After our supper that night a dear friend, Annette Tomlinson, said she was flying that night to join us.  Annette blessed us with special outings which included swimming with dolphins!  On Friday I took another day alone with God and again, God met me in the tenderness of His presence and the song “Praise” reverberated through my soul as if I was in Heaven myself.  God graciously gave me everything I needed! Below is a video with the song "Praise" God gave me and some of our Cuba memories if you want to enjoy.

Resurrection Power and Life!

Easter Sunrise Service

We returned to our church the weeks prior to Easter.  Oh, what a delight that was!  We enjoyed multiple services celebrating our God who has conquered death!  Hallelujah!  We even tried a Sunrise Service on Easter Sunday as multiple people rallied themselves to celebrate the resurrection power and a delicious breakfast hosted by the Deacons. 

Dad's 90th Birthday Celebration

We have continued to witness the tender presence of God in worship services, during the solar eclipse (April 8), in celebrating dad’s 90th birthday (April 17), in having dates with Dad, enjoying Melanie’s extended family, in planting fruit trees on our property, and in various ministry moments. We can say with confidence, the LORD is close to the brokenhearted and to those who seek His face (Psalm 34:18; 27:18).

Two ministry moments that were highlights for Phil were: 1) Our final night of the Kids Group (Grades 1-5) where 81 kids and parents gathered on the church lawn with laughter and joy as children put whipped cream pies in volunteer’s faces. As children and parents came up to thank us afterwards, I was filled with joy at the privilege God has given us to share His good news! Seeing the genuine joy and wonder in children’s eyes is priceless! 2) The second highlight is similar.  Our church partners with Garrison Road Church for youth ministry.  In May, I was invited to share a talk with the Jr. Highs (Grades 6-8).  As I shared, I sensed the presence of God come over me and the group. As I stood sharing and the youth were listening, I knew God was up to something.  My heart felt so alive! It encouraged me deeply as part of my life verses testify, “Even when I am old and gray, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come” (Psalm 71:18). Oh, how great is our God!

Family Life

Jonathan and David start soccer soon and I’ve been asked to coach David’s U8 soccer team. They sure are growing up fast!  Pray for our children as they develop and discern God’s will and desires for their lives.

The boys and I bought two fruit trees for Melanie on Mother’s Day. Melanie has bought more fruit trees, is planting vegetables, and is excited about her new growth opportunities!  She never ceases to amaze us! Please continue to pray for Melanie’s ongoing healing as her pains are intense some days.

Thailand Exchange Students

Lastly, we had 2 Thailand exchange students stay with us for 3 weeks in April-May.  We had a wonderful time together and the boys sure did enjoy their added company and cultural influence.  Please pray with us to be a blessing to the nations in our church and in our daily lives. God desires his church to be a house of prayer for all nations!

All these memories are to reiterate that we are so thankful for God’s love, care, and comfort. It is an honour to share God’s love, care, and comfort with others in their times of need.  Thank you for how you have also shared God's love, care, and comfort with us! We are eternally grateful! We are so thankful that we are family in Christ Jesus! Oh, how great is our God!

Until we connect again in 2+ months,

Phil, Melanie, Jonathan, and David Styles