Taste and See that the Lord is Good

Dear brothers and sisters,

Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

This past month has been full of encouragement, fellowship, and reminders of the Lord’s goodness toward us here in Milan. As the psalmist says, “Taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:8), and we truly experienced that together.

Family Retreat 2026

One of the highlights of the month was our Family Retreat in Cecina, Tuscany, where we gathered together with two other churches: Chiesa Presbiteriana di Pistoia and Chiesa Riformata Redenzione di Bergamo. This was our second annual family retreat together.

It was a rich and refreshing time of Word, fellowship, and rest. Over the course of three days, we worshiped together, studied the Psalms, prayed, sang, and simply enjoyed being together as families in Christ. The setting by the sea reminded us of the greatness of our God, while the warmth of fellowship reminded us of His grace at work among His people.

The theme of the retreat, “Taste and see that the Lord is good”, was not only taught, but truly experienced. We pray that the fruit of these days will continue to grow in our hearts and in our homes.

Visit from Missions Coordinator Rev. Richard Bout

We were also greatly encouraged by the visit of Rev. Richard Bout, the Missions Coordinator of the URCNA, along with his wife Angela. Janie and I were personally refreshed by their fellowship and the time they spent with us in our home. We spent many hours talking about the ministry, our family, and life on the mission field.

Pastor Bout preached a timely sermon on Hebrews 13, reminding us of the central place of hospitality in the Christian life, a message that deeply resonated with our congregation.

In addition, he met with our Consistory, offering wise counsel and encouragement regarding the ongoing mission of the church here in Milan. We are thankful for his leadership and for the care of our broader federation.

Visit from Escondido URC Elders

Another special encouragement came through the visit of two elders from my sending church, Escondido United Reformed Church: Steve Howerzyl and Bill Verhooven. We are very grateful that they took the time to come to Milan and see the work firsthand, meet with our Consistory and Council, and encourage Janie and me personally. Their presence meant a great deal, not only to us, but also to our congregation here. It was a tangible reminder that we are not alone, but are deeply connected to the broader body of Christ and to the URCNA.

Looking Ahead

We give thanks to God for His continued faithfulness.

Please pray:

• that the fruit of the Family Retreat would continue in our families

• that we would grow in hospitality and love for one another

• that the Lord would continue to strengthen the ties between our mission work and the broader church

Thank you, as always, for your prayers and support. The Lord is at work, and we are grateful to be part of what He is doing here in Italy.

With gratitude in Christ,
Pastor Mike & Janie

“But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and athe ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” (Acts 20:24)

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

Making disciples of Christ in Milan is only possible with the faithful partnership of God’s people. If you want to get involved in the Great Commission in Italy, here are three ways you can help:

1. PRAY for the church in Milan (Chiesa Riformata Filadelfia) and for Pastor Mike and his family. Pray that the gospel will be proclaimed boldly, that people will come to know Christ, and that they will grow in their faith. Pray that more faithful churches will be planted in Italy.

2. SHARE the news about Mission Milan. Pass on this newsletter to others and tell them about the need in Italy. For more information, visit our website: missionmilan.org.

3. GIVE a donation of any amount. Your gift helps! You can give online at missionmilan.org. Or send a check to:


Escondido United Reformed Church
1864 N. Broadway
Escondido, CA 92026

Checks should be made out to Escondido United Reformed Church. Please indicate that the support is for Rev. Michael Brown as a missionary to Italy.