The Lord Reigns…Even Now
Dear brothers and sisters,
These are not easy days. Many of you are carrying real burdens: global conflict, rising costs, political tensions, and uncertainty about the future. It is easy to feel unsettled, even overwhelmed.
And yet, God’s Word calls us back: “The Lord reigns; let the earth rejoice.” (Psalm 97:1) Not will reign. Not might reign. The Lord reigns—right now. While the world feels unstable, Christ is seated at the right hand of the Father, ruling over all things for the good of His church.
And here in Milan, we are seeing quiet reminders of that truth.
A New Elder Ordained: We are grateful to share that Francesco Pinelli has been ordained as an elder in our church. This was a deeply meaningful service, marked by prayer, the laying on of hands, and a clear sense of the Lord’s presence among us.
Francesco has already been serving faithfully, and we rejoice to see Christ continuing to provide shepherds for His flock. Please pray for him, that he would serve with humility, wisdom, and love for Christ’s people.
A New Family Exploring Membership: We are also encouraged to welcome the Lisboa family (a family of three), who have begun attending and are currently participating in our membership class. It is always a joy to see new people drawn to the church, not by programs or events, but by the simple, powerful means God has ordained: His Word and Sacraments, as well as the fellowship of his people. Pray that the Lord would continue to work in their hearts and firmly plant them in the life of the church.
Men’s Fellowship, Studying Biblical Manhood: Our men have been gathering regularly to study biblical masculinity. Namely, what does the Bible say about what it means to be a man? These have been rich and honest times, considering what it means to be men shaped not by culture, but by Christ, and being faithful with the calling God has entrusted to us. We are seeing a growing desire among the men to lead, serve, and encourage one another in godliness.
The Ministry of the Word Continues: At the center of everything remains the ordinary means of grace:
- Sunday mornings: preaching through the Gospel of Luke
- Catechism services: studying the Canons of Dort
- Midweek Bible study: working through 1 Samuel
Week by week, the Word of God is read, preached, sung, and prayed. And this is our confidence: God is at work through His Word. In a world that feels chaotic and uncertain, this is our hope. The kingdom of God is still advancing. Christ will build His Church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.
Thank you for your prayers, your encouragement, and your support.
Truly, you are part of what the Lord is doing here in Milan.
And as you face your own challenges, we pray that you would be strengthened by this same truth:
Christ is reigning. His Word is at work. His church is being built.
With gratitude in Christ,
Pastor Mike & Janie
Mission Milan
“For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be glory forever. Amen.” (Romans 11:36)
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.
