September 2025 Prayer Email
September Prayer Email
August was a fruitful month in many ways, particularly in relationships! We feel quite encouraged. Thank you for praying. And Vic is in sinus rhythm again after a cardioversion. He’s had several EKGs, another echocardiogram, two new meds prescribed, and multiple doctor checkups. Again, we are encouraged.
As fall is in full gear, there are three things we ask you to pray for us:
Discernment – in leading meetings, in interviews, in relationships, in mentoring, in hearing the voice of the Holy Spirit, daily and in real time. Please ask the Lord for this.
Engagement – Vic has USLT meetings (September 9-10). He speaks for, and we participate in our headquarters Day of Prayer (September 17). He then attends the Nations Within staff gathering in Phoenix (September 19-21). Lindy heads to the beach for her annual “camp” with four women in The Navigators who’ve journeyed together for nearly 20 years (September 20-24). We want to engage fully, with great joy, in these events.
Faith – as we’ve been invited individually and together into some difficult situations needing deep prayers of faith. Please pray the Lord will increase our hope, trust, and faith in Him.
How can we pray for you?
Vic and Lindy
November Prayer Email
The 31 days of October required exercising open hands to the plans of the Lord. We were deeply blessed at the Trueface Retreat that had to be moved from Asheville to Charlotte due to the flooding damage in Asheville. Lindy’s weekend with her Alpha 4.0 girlfriends had to be cancelled due to the unexpected death of one of their friends. Lindy’s dad moved into a three-bedroom apartment in his senior living facility. This required a great deal of work for Lindy and her siblings but was what he wanted as he married his girlfriend, Velma, on November 1. Yes, he is 94.
We capped off the month with a long weekend seeing our son and his family. We even got to attend the Mississippi State football game with our granddaughter who is a sophomore there.
As you pray for us, we depend on your prayers for the people and team interactions we will have throughout the month.Will you ask the Lord to be generous in his wisdom, opening our ears to His voice, and granting us soft hearts to follow Him?
Specific needs and requests:
- Tomorrow, November 5, Vic must have his bladder pacemaker repositioned. It is not doing all it should for him. While not a long surgery, please pray for protection and success!
- November 10-12, Vic leads a small team of prayer warriors in Chicago to intercede for the Navigator city leaders. They need to see a breakthrough in reaching the city, in finances, and in spiritual warfare.
- Lindy will finish the Leadership Development Cohort with our church on November 10. It has been a privilege to be part of the team and a learning experience for her. Pray the participants will be empowered in the variety of places they serve and work.
- Lindy has a big decade birthday on November 17. Her request was an all-inclusive resort in Puerta Vallarta with her love of 50 years. (He happily said yes!) We will be gone November 15-21. Will you pray for great joy together, a lot of fun, and the protection of our family while gone?
We will be home for Thanksgiving. We thank God for you!
Vic and Lindy
September Prayer Email
Looking back over the past month, we see God’s goodness in many ways. We had a wonderful week in Huntsville with Ashley, Benjamin and their family! But the middle weeks were even more full than we anticipated. Then on Friday night, August 23, after Lindy finished The Navigator Board of Directors meetings, we began the BEST ten days of "stay-cation." We hiked, ate good food, had time with the Lord, and worked around the house. It may become an annual event!
We find ourselves refreshed and ready to begin the fall. Here are some things we anticipate moving forward:
- Lindy experiencing great joy as she gathers with her fellow Navigator leader sisters for their annual gathering, September 7-11. The five women will be at the beach, sharing deeply their lives and hearts, praying and encouraging one another, laced with much laughter and joy.
- Re-launching our Alpha small group, version 4.0. One of the women spent the past year in Reno and at Stanford hospital with Brendon, who you have prayed for. He is returning to Reno soon, still recovering from the effects of the stem cell transplant and making progress.
- Vic contributing well in the U.S. Leadership meetings, September 10-11.
- Our annual headquarters Day of Prayer, September 18.
- A good start for Lindy in two new formal mentoring relationships through our leader development program for emerging national leaders.
- Vic continuing to building God focus prayer groups in cities. Pray this vision of entering the presence of God more relationally might become contagious and spread powerfully.
- A strong launch of our church’s Leadership Development Cohort that Lindy has helped design and will help lead as part of the team.
- Intense preparation for Lindy as she prepares five sessions for women leaders who are a part of the Anglican Church in North America, September 30-October 3.
Please PRAY specifically throughout this month for the Lord to open our eyes, hearts, ears, and spirits, so we can join Him in the work He is already doing in and around us. PRAY Proverbs 3:5,6 from the Amplified Bible for us: May Vic and Lindy trust in and rely confidently on You, Lord, with all their heart and not rely on their own insight or understanding. May they know and acknowledge and recognize You, Lord, confident that You will make their paths straight and smooth [removing obstacles that block their way].
Deeply indebted to your faith and prayers,
Vic and Lindy
Prayer Email - July 2024
To our faithful praying friends.
We love summer in Colorado. We especially love the time with family and friends (both in town and those from out of town) during these months. Having multiple grandkids staying with us over the past month has brought deep joy and lots of fun to our hearts and home.
Lindy admits preparing for her message at our church was harder than she thought it would be. The Lord met with her in her preparation. She’s received affirmation for her preaching at both services. But the best affirmation came from the Lord as she sensed His pleasure. If you want to see the video of her message, we have included the link below.
Vic’s trip to Portland was good and hard. Great visits with staff. Seeing Lee Brase, his beloved prayer mentor, losing capacity in multiple ways was the hard part.
These next two weeks (July 9-20) include:
- Our grandson, Miles, spending a couple days with us for focused attention and spoiling
- Vic participating in the July U.S. Leadership Team meetings
- Lindy working on recruiting and matching mentors for a leader development program
- Investing our lives through multiple life to life appointments
- Preparing for and leading Cousin Camp
Key prayer needs:
- For God to give wisdom as we minister to and with people.
- For energy and protection during our annual Cousin Camp, July 21-25.
- For exceptional time with our grandkids and kids in the mountains, July 25-30.
- To be rooted deeply in Jesus as the source of all we need to live lives pleasing to Him.
Several of you have asked about Brendon who had a stem cell transplant in March, after many months battling leukemia. He just arrived in Colorado Springs to continue his recovery at his parents’ home. Pray for an appetite, the ability to eat, and his strength to be rebuilt.
We depend on your prayers. Thanks for praying!
Here is the link to Lindy’s sermon. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rpk-JR8Omc8&list=PLMq7jH6_1tiXd7TkUR6vpfrkLTIisH4qM&index=2
Prayer Email - June 2024
To our most wonderful prayer team,
How can we put in words all the ways God has answered your prayers over the past few weeks? We give thanks to God Most High for the incredible days with the students and staff at the Ekklesia Summer Training Program in Vermont. The conversations and lessons learned are more than we can recount. We spoke seven times (once together and six separately). There is evidence that three students believed fully and stepped out of the kingdom of darkness into the Kingdom of the Son of God (Colossians 1:13)! We heard stories of lousy dads and immense pressure to perform academically. We learned of new things like Discord (another social media platform) and fears of going home…of unhealthy relationships and longings. We talked about our own stories and how we fell in love. More in our quarterly letter coming soon… Please pray the seeds of truth and of the Gospel will take root and bear MUCH fruit in the lives of these students.
Lindy’s cataract surgery was successful as far as our understanding goes. Yes, we feel a bit tired BUT deeply encouraged.
As we look to June, we have the incredible opportunity to invest in our family. Pray we can reinforce the truths their parents are laying.
e As we write, our 17-year-old granddaughter, Esther, is on crew at Eagle Lake Day Camp at the Glen
for the next three weeks, staying with us. (Can you spell S-P-O-I-L?)
e Three of our grandsons will attend this same day camp, June 10-14.
Vic has U.S. Leadership Team meetings, June 11-12.
Lindy has been asked numerous times by our pastor to speak at our Sunday worship services. She said yes (finally) and will be speaking for the two services on June 30.
Vic and Lindy will speak to the Global Student Program on prayer on July 1.
We celebrate our 47th wedding anniversary on June 25. What God has allowed us to experience, to do, and so much more, how can we not praise Him?
Deeply indebted to your faith and prayers,
Vic and Lindy
Prayer Email – May 2024
We are confident your prayers made all the difference over the past weeks. We have felt stretched between travel, family needs, company, and life’s normal unexpected scenarios. Experiencing His help in our responsibilities and relationships has been so real.
Our big prayer request is for our 15-day trip to Bridgewater Corners, Vermont, May 16-30. We will participate in the collegiate Northeast Regional Staff Conference at the beginning followed by a 10-day Summer Training Program for Navigator college students in the northeast. The focus of the program is: Know Christ, Make Him Known, and Help Others Do the Same.
We are excited and grateful for this opportunity. We will be teaching formally seven times, sharing the speaking between us. We will also spend time with individual staff and students, encouraging and investing in them as the Lord leads.
- Please pray for wisdom and insight as we finish our study and preparation.
- Pray for energy, protection, and grace for this adventure.
- Pray we can be the hands, heart, and voice of Jesus to these students.
Vic has U.S. Leadership Team meetings, May 13-15. He is also helping lead the dedication of our much-anticipated new prayer room at our headquarters on May 13. Lindy has a Board of Directors committee meeting, May 9, and multiple other mentoring appointments before we leave.
Lindy will have cataract surgery on the eye she had a retinal hole repaired in a year ago. The doctor predicted this would be needed. This is scheduled for May 31. May the Lord be merciful.
With joy,
Vic and Lindy
P.S. Pictures of Lindy at the Christian Leadership Alliance conference – speaking at her workshop and with a group of other Navigators who attended.
April 2024 Email
The month of March held unexpected joys and surprises. Proverbs 16:3 says, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.” Here is a short recap.
- Vic had good engagement with staff and students at the University of Wisconsin.
- On March 3, our good friend, Dave Wirgau, died suddenly of a heart attack. He was 66 years old. Vic canceled his trip to the African American Congress so we could attend the funeral. Weather disrupted flights and it was a miracle we got there.
- The U.S. Leadership Team offsite was cut short due to snow. We got nearly a foot and a half at our house. The time the team did have continued to solidify them as a team.
- Due to the snow, Lindy’s trip to Reno was touch and go. But miraculously, she got there. The days with Dea were exceptional as Lindy was able to be fully present with her, encouraging and mentoring her on the difficult path they are walking with their son, Brendon.
- GOOD NEWS – Brendon received 7,000,000 new stem cells on April 3, his new birthday!
- More good news – Vic’s cardiologist does not see any cause for concern after Vic wore the heart monitor, due to passing out.
- More good news – Lindy’s five-month project related to recruiting is coming to a close. The final report and recommended proposal goes to the U.S. Leadership Team this week.
- And finally, more good news - our Denver kids were called shortly after their final approval as foster parents to say there was a two-year-old boy who needed to be placed. He has now been with them for two weeks.
Would you PRAY for God’s wisdom, protection, and favor over these requests?
- Lindy will attend the Christian Leadership Alliance Outcomes conference, April 8-10. She and Doug Nuenke (former U.S. Director) will present a workshop there.
- Vic and Lindy will travel together for the Trueface Board of Directors couples’ retreat, April 12-14 in Arizona.
- For Vic as he trains and develops people (in and outside of The Navigators) in God-focus prayer.
- Vic has U.S. Leadership Team meetings, April 16-17.
- Lindy has a new opportunity to serve with our church’s Leadership Development Team. They meet once a month.
- For Joshua and Julia, as they seek to love their foster son, Jesse, well.
March 2024 Postal Mail
Our greatest joy is to invest in those who are increasing influencers and leaders in the Kingdom of God. Sometimes it brings me to tears as I pray for our adult children, for Navigator leaders, and for disciplemakers we are pouring our lives into. I can just imagine the apostle Paul weeping with joy and longing for the impact of his life to cascade for generations. His words in 2 Timothy 2:1,2 ring loud and clear two thousand years later. “…be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others.”
As we begin 2024, I find myself rooted on solid ground after a year of challenging adjustment in 2023. Ever since our staff training (1981-1984), my calling and commitment have been to the next generation. Now, 40 plus years later, that commitment is deeper, stronger, and impacting more people! The ripple effect is real.
In October, I was asked to facilitate a process to discern the next season of Recruiting and Mobilization of new field staff for The Navigators. I invited Stephen (pictured) to partner with me and to learn how to lead such an endeavor. This culminated as the final work group just met a week ago. The recommendations will impact The Navigators for years to come. In Stephen's words, “Working with Lindy has been an incredible joy and has grown me as a leader. Her leadership and partnership have been empowering, developmental, and led us to greater clarity from the Lord in the area of recruiting.”
In December, I was asked to finish Jenny’s (pictured) Navigator Representative staff training. This woman’s influence will spread generationally through staff, summer counselors, and countless young people as she has recently stepped into the director role of our Eagle Lake Camps.
In January, I was invited to be part of a Norwegian staff woman’s sabbatical team. I have been a mentor for her for the past two years. She is an oncologist, Navigator leader, wife, mom, and disciplemaker. Her passion for her country and for emerging Kingdom leaders in Europe will impact generations to come.
Do we need a bridge to “Our kids…”
Jason and Adrienne Black live on the Gulf Coast in Ocean Springs, Mississippi. He is an emergency department physician, a godly, compassionate doctor, and the chairman of his ER group of 27 physicians and nine PA's and NP's. The challenges of medicine today are intense. Also intense are the demands of parenting with their five who are now 18 (a freshman at Mississippi State), 17, 15, 12, and 4. Adrienne is an amazing mom as their kids are in five different schools with activities galore!
Julia and Joshua Phoenix are in Denver. He works for Charles Schwab, leading the delivery of data and analytic services to their internal partners. Their boys are 10, 8, and nearly 7. They have been in a year long process to be certified as foster parents with an option to adopt. In Colorado, this is no small undertaking and has required more work than we could have imagined. We are so proud of their hearts of compassion, with their own children, and their active commitment to love lost and broken children in Jesus’ name.
Ashley and Benjamin Powell live in Huntsville, Alabama. She continues to direct her preschool in an underserved part of the city, with a passion to offer intervention, services, and resources to at risk preschoolers and their families. Benjamin is flourishing as an Ear, Nose, and Throat physician. Trust me. He is the one you’d want operating on you with his high level of skill and Holy Spirit discernment! Their children are now 14, 12, 10, and 5. They are all in the same school (for the first time) and thriving!
Will you ask, for our adult children and others we are investing our lives in, to walk in the power of the Holy Spirit and to love the Lord with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength? As you pray for us, will you pray Psalm 90:12? “So teach us to number our days, that we may cultivate and bring to You a heart of wisdom.”
February 2024 Prayer Email
We're so grateful for your prayers!
Thank you for praying for us in January. Here are some results:
- Excellent time alone with God has set our course effectively for 2024.
- Lindy is seeing good progress regarding the future of recruiting and mobilization.
- Our friends' son battling leukemia received some good news in preparation for a bone marrow transplant at Stanford. Please continue praying for Brendon.
Lindy has several places this month where she is eager and joyful to contribute:
- Finishing a Nav leader’s training to become a Navigator Representative.
- Joining the sabbatical team of a Norwegian staff woman.
- Serving Marvin Campbell and the U.S. Leadership Team.
- Discipling relationships that are flourishing!
For Vic:
- Vic is settling in to his role on the US Leadership Team. Please pray that God will release him to bring the very best of his contribution.
- Several places for leadership development and discipleship happen throughout the month. Please pray for Vic to partner well with the Holy Spirit in these relationships.
Key dates:
- 12th, 15th, 16th, is an interview process for candidates for Director of World Missions. Vic will be leading a prayer effort to cover these interviews in prayer. Please join in prayer for God's choice.
- 21st - 23rd, The Navigator Board of Directors meet. Please pray Lindy can hear, see, and speak with Holy Spirit discernment.
- 27th, the work group who will develop a recommended plan for Recruiting and Mobilization of new field staff will meet all day. Over the upcoming 2 weeks, the final synthesis of the focus groups will be done and planning for the 27th will be completed. Lindy and those involved need insight and wisdom from the Holy Spirit. Please pray!
- 28th - March 1, the annual Leadership Summit meets in Colorado Springs. These are critical meetings to set the course for 2024 and beyond. Vic is leading a prayer effort for these meetings. Please join him.
Vic and Lindy Black's January Update
HAPPY NEW YEAR!
Thank you for praying for us in December. Here are some answers to your prayers:
We had a wonderful time connecting with each of our three kids and their families over the Christmas holidays. Our trip to the southeast was smooth, sickness free, and filled with more joy and fun than we have room to write!
Lindy is making progress facilitating a discernment process for the next season of recruiting and mobilizing new field staff.
Our friends' son battling leukemia has been accepted to Stanford for a bone marrow transplant.
This month please pray...
For Lindy, wisdom, discernment, and a God-listening heart (I Kings 3:9):
- as I discern what the Lord is saying and how He is leading me in 2024. I had a day alone with God on January 11 with more planned this month. Psalm 145 is resounding as a passage for the year.
- as I continue moving forward with focus groups and a synthesis of what has been learned in these groups on the future of recruiting and mobilization of new field staff.
- as I give counsel to the U.S. Leadership Team for the development of new team members.
For Vic:
I have been asked to join the U.S. Leadership Team meetings (no longer the NLT). I will bring faith, prayer, and a God-focus perspective to these days. This will have a big impact on my schedule. Pray for wisdom and discernment as I bring my contribution to the team.
Wednesday, January 24, I will speak to the Glen Eyrie staff on Running the Race from Hebrews 12:1-2. This is one of my favorite life passages. Please pray that I can effectively reveal the truths God has taught me through the years.
I am doing some writing and preparation for another 40 Days of Prayer in the near future. Pray for the Holy Spirit to guide me and enable me to reveal His heart.
Vic and Lindy Black's December Update
Thank you for praying for us in November. Some answers to your prayers:
In so many ways, the National Staff Gathering was a huge success. We are both encouraged that our opportunities to serve and lead were well received and proved to be a blessing to many.
The Discernment Team that functioned during the National Staff Gathering opened some new doors for listening to the Holy Spirit that will carry us into the future.
Please pray this month...
Lindy’s been asked to facilitate a discernment process over the next four months for the next season of recruiting new field staff to The Navigators. This month, she is facilitating five focus groups designed to listen to perspectives and input of roughly 45 people. Please pray for ears to hear what the people are saying and how the Lord is leading through them.
December 14, Vic will be meeting with his God-focused prayer training group. These men and women are leading in a variety of ways around the country. Vic needs prayer for his intentional, relational pursuit of these men and women, to equip them in their contribution as leaders and in prayer.
December 14-16, Lindy will fly with a friend to be with a mutual friend and her adult son who is battling leukemia. We long for healing in this man. We see God doing a greater work that is not clear yet. Please enter in faith and prayer with us for God’s Kingdom to come and for His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven – in Brendon, in this family, and in the ripple of the Gospel with many engaged and watching.
We have the privilege of being with each of our kids and their families for Christmas celebrations. We will be with Julia and her family this weekend (Dec 8-10), and then drive to the south, December 20-January 3, to be with Jason and Ashley and their families. Please pray for good memories, exceptional conversations with all, and protection as we travel.
Vic & Lindy Blacks September Update
Thank you for praying for us in August. Some requests were answered and some are ongoing.
Lindy's first Board of Directors meeting was challenging but reassuring that she is in the right place for this season.
Vic's teaching and training at the Estes Park Summer Training Program was very well received. The environment was gorgeous and the students and staff were very receptive.
Some key things we need prayer for:
ε Our Alpha 3.0 group is facing a major hurdle. The son of one couple has been diagnosed with leukemia. Chemo treatments have started, but they are brutal. The leukemia has caused loss of sight. Please join us in prayer for God to move mightily in this family. We want to see their son completely healed, but we also deeply desire the entire family be drawn into the tender, loving heart of our heavenly Father.
ε Italy, September 11-22. A dream we had when Lindy stepped off the National Leadership Team was to travel to Italy with our dear friends, Jim and Sandee Falk. God took Jim home in February of 2022, much sooner than we all expected. Lindy and Sandee are traveling to Italy together. It will be bittersweet. Lindy is in need of being fully off after a demanding 4 months. Please pray for joy and fun that would restore both of their souls.
ε Lindy turned over the leadership of the Resolution Team this week. While she will continue to have influence and voice, she is excited to see what God has for the next season for this team. They are in a discernment process to know what leadership and focus is needed now as we work toward building a healthier organization. Would you continue praying for humility and wisdom as we seek to provide the help and support our staff need to see an explosion of the gospel and many new disciplemakers raised up.
ε Vic is designing and writing a 40 Day Prayer Journey for our staff leading up to our National Staff Gathering. Please pray Vic and other contributors will be clearly led by the Holy Spirit in this call to prayer. Pray God would stir the hearts of our staff to pray.
ε Vic leads a God Focused Training Group virtually that meets on the second Thursday of each month. Please pray for encouraging and deep connection with those participating and that the Holy Spirit would ultimately be our teacher and guide.
June 5, 2023
Vic and Lindy Black's June 2023 update
Thank you for praying in May:
e Vic’s heart procedure to implant the Watchman device was very successful. Easy recovery.
e Lindy’s eye surgery to repair a macular hole was also successful, but her recovery has been slower and more arduous than anticipated. Her engagement in multiple areas has been challenging with her brain not quite up to speed (it is taxing to not be able to see clearly) and her vision impaired as she recovers. She’s doing much better as of today.
e The Dallas City Team prayer retreat was a major success. Forty-three men and women gathered to focus on God, trusting the Holy Spirit to guide us into His heart and healing.
Habakkuk 3:17-19 captures a reality of very challenging times coupled with an extreme trust and worship of God in the midst of trouble. Would you please take a season of time, as the Lord leads, to consistently pray this for us and for the Navigators in the U.S.?
“Though the fig tree does not blossom and there is no fruit on the vines…Yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will exult in the [victorious] God of my salvation! The Lord God is my Strength, my personal bravery, and my invincible army; He makes my feet like hinds’ feet and will make me to walk [not to stand still in terror, but to walk] and make [spiritual] progress upon my high places [of trouble, suffering, or responsibility]!” (Amplified Translation)
Lindy is leading a Coordination Team and working on resources to guide our U.S. staff in moving toward deeper trust, and in pursuing healthy partnerships with men and women in leadership in our diverse ministry contexts. For some, this has been a tumultuous experience. For many, hope is stirred. Please pray for humility to reign. Pray for the Holy Spirit to rule in our midst, bringing oneness that would honor God. We long for improved communication and more expansive Kingdom impact moving forward.
Vic is writing the final video script calling our staff to seek the Lord and do warfare prayer in pulling down the strongholds resisting the powerful advance of the Gospel in all our ministry contexts and relationships. Please pray for wisdom and discernment to choose words carefully, yet strategically that would equip and motivate our staff to corporately pray.
A few key dates:
- Lindy joins the NLT on June 13 as they prepare for regional staff gatherings in July.
- Our Alpha 3.0 meets on June 17. We are so encouraged as these friends are growing in Christ.
- Lindy does a Navigator overview for new EDGE staff on June 20.
- We celebrate 46 years of marriage on June 25!
- We head to the mountains June 29-July 3, with Lindy’s dad along with her siblings and their spouses for a celebration of life, family, and the goodness of God!
12/7/22
Vic and Lindy Black's December Update
Thank you for praying us through November.
Here’s a quote from our International President, Mutua Mahiaini, about our recent International Council, “What is the Holy Spirit saying to us regarding our progress in implementing The Navigators Core? What will it take for us to hear God say, “Well done”? Sixty-five Navigator leaders gathered in Cyprus in November to seek answers to those questions, and we came away realigned, recommitted, and re-energized.”
What a privilege to lead a prayer team covering these meetings in Cyprus. The prayer team was from Nigeria, Singapore, and the U.S. God gave us specific Scripture to pray from Exodus, Psalms, Isaiah, and 1 Corinthians. Just as those in the International Council Gathering, the prayer team was very much in a posture of listening to the Lord. As these leaders have returned to their homes and ministries, would you pray for our great Shepherd who speaks (John 10:3,4) to communicate with their people in ways that would unleash powerful unity and harmony in their ministry contexts?
Today (December 7), the National Leadership Team (NLT) Department had an appreciation luncheon for Lindy. The words of affirmation and love were very powerful to her soul and caused us to give glory to God for what He has done through her life and leadership.
Next week (December 12-15) is Lindy’s final NLT week, bringing a rigorous schedule, Monday-Thursday. It is going to be a doozy of a grand finale week. God has grown an amazing team unity as they move into necessary changes and planning for the future. Will you pray for Lindy and the team to be unusually discerning on what God is saying in a variety of areas?
We will be traveling over the Christmas holiday. We are taking a road-trip to the southeast to see our southern kids and grandkids. We will then take 6 days of vacation on the drive home, visiting two national parks. Would you pray for safety, fun, and great memories with each family?
The surgery we asked you to pray for last month produced some lingering and unresolved issues for Vic. The doctors are still focused on bringing the best, thorough solution to his bladder difficulty. But we know the Great Healer. Would you continue pray He will bring complete healing?
11/7/22
Vic and Lindy's November Update
Lindy officially steps off the National Leadership Team (NLT) after a tenure of twelve years at the end of 2022. But these are the men and women she will continue walking alongside, serving in the background as coach and developer of existing and new national leaders. She has deep peace the timing is right for her to take this step. Praise God with us this has been such an affirming and fruitful season for Lindy! And thank you for praying for God’s direction for her future contribution!
Lindy’s final team offsite in October was bittersweet as she loves these friends deeply, yet knows the team is in good hands. It was a celebration and an affirmation of her impact in planning and leading the NLT meetings for these years. The four days were packed with intense interactions as well as seeking the Lord on multiple issues. Would you take a moment to pray for the Holy Spirit’s clear and empowering leadership to fill and anoint our entire national leadership community? Ask the Lord for a spirit of humility and mutual respect to flow over and among them.
By the time you read this letter, Vic will have returned from an eight-day trip to Cyprus. There he has the privilege to be part of an onsite prayer team for the International Council. This group is meeting to review our CORE (Calling, Values, and Vision) and to hear what God is saying to The Navigators today across the globe. We are eager to share with you the fruit of those days in our next letter, but for now, please pray for protection of hearts, minds, and bodies as the men and women of the Council return home. We anticipate intense days of listening to and seeking the Lord together.
Did you notice the word, intense, in our last two paragraphs? That describes how life has felt over these past weeks. Traveling for most of October and part of November, seeking the Lord for our future and the future of The Navigators, and walking with friends who are suffering physically and emotionally are contributing to the heightened intensity. Critical and challenging conversations are taking place internally with our Navigator leadership involving much prayer, study, research, and robust dialogue! Pray for love and mutual respect in all of these conversations.
We are acutely aware our first step must be to humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God as our enemy the devil, prowls around like a roaring lion.
(1 Peter 5:6-8) He opposes fruitfulness in God’s Kingdom work viciously. At the same time, success and fruitfulness is essential for the Gospel of Jesus and His Kingdom to advance and flourish among the lost. Pray for distinctive and powerful unity in every context of ministry across the U.S. among all Navigators.
As we approach the week of Thanksgiving, we find our gratitude rising from the truth we are in Christ! Our lives are hidden with Christ in God and in Him, we are complete. (Colossians 3:3 and 2:10) We will celebrate Thanksgiving with our Denver daughter and her family at home as Vic will have surgery on November 21. This is a first step to resolve some on-going bladder issues. Ask the Lord for healing for Vic and for rest for our souls. It will also be our first Thanksgiving without Mom.
Writing this letter, we are mindful we have the desire and will to humble ourselves and rest in Christ because you pray. We give thanks for you! May you have a God-focused, peace-filled Thanksgiving.
10/5/22
Vic and Lindy Black's October Update
Please keep these key words in mind as you pray for Lindy:
wisdom - discernment - clarity
... forming both current work efforts with the National Leadership Team (NLT) and future planning as she steps off the team at the end of the year.
Please keep these key words in mind as you pray for Vic:
focus - faith - humility
... in bringing thorough attention to his current role of Associate Director of Nations Within while designing and preparing for his new role in prayer.
Key dates that need your prayers:
Oct 6-9 Vic and Lindy travel to the annual Trueface Board meeting which includes spouses. This is an excellent opportunity for us to serve the broader body of Christ.
Oct 11-14 NLT offsite. Lindy’s last one to attend, plan, and help lead. Key topics to be covered – answering questions and planning related to our newly developed integrated strategic plan, learning together what is needed to grow missional communities, working on a country review revealing how we are doing in fulling our mission, and more. Our key prayer focus for these days is radical love – tenacious unity with contagious joy.
Oct 16-27 Ocean Springs, MS with our 5 grandkids while Jason and Adrienne take a 20th anniversary trip. We can’t wait! We will be working virtually while the kids are in school and making new memories with them. Please pray for the Lord’s protection, grace, and energy.
4/6/22
Vic and Lindy Black's March Update
Looking back at March, God moved in amazing ways and your prayers were the fuel! The African American Conference Vic attended in Cincinnati was one of the best conferences he’s ever attended! Speakers were brilliant, engaging and seasoned practitioners. The conference as a whole was a very life-changing experience.
Lindy’s Executive Team offsite meetings provided the new team with an opportunity to dream big, pray big, and hope big as they worked to design leadership structures for the future.
As Vic spoke to groups of students here for spring break and Lindy served on the board of Trueface, we experienced the breadth of God’s invitation to us for impact.
Next week, April 11-13, is the first week both national leadership teams will meet - the Executive Team and the new National Leadership Team. In Marvin Campbell’s words (our U.S. Director), “The Executive Team will bring insight, oversight, and foresight to our growing disciplemaking movement. The National Leadership Team will focus on the execution, implementation, and resource allocation around our strategic framework and integrated strategic plan.” Lindy will serve on both teams for a period of time as new norms and rhythms are being established.
Vic has the privilege of helping design a comprehensive plan for a culture of prayer for The Navigators in the U.S. He’s working with a small team, seeking the Lord for His thoughts to more deeply establish prayer in our support and business ministries, as well as in the field ministries across our nation. We’ll be telling you more as this develops.
We have the joy of three family get togethers this month! This weekend, April 7-10, we fly to Kansas City for our nephew’s wedding. All of our kids are coming with half of our grandkids. Most of Lindy’s family will be there! The following week, April 14-18, we fly to Huntsville to be with Ashley and Benjamin’s family for Easter. Then, April 21-23, Joshua and Julia’s boys join us for a few days of focused attention and Grayson’s 5th birthday celebration!
Lindy flies to Phoenix for her annual “Winter Camp” with four other Navigator women leaders at the end of April. Always a highlight of her year!
As you read of God’s answers and opportunities above, please ask the Lord for three things:
That our hearts will be very open and engaged with the Holy Spirit in the many responsibilities and opportunities open to us. That we would keep Father, Son, and Holy Spirit central and focused in everything we do. That our family and extended family would love God with all their heart, soul, mind, and strength.
3/5/22
Vic and Lindy Black's March Update
We are so grateful for ALL your prayers throughout February. It has been a challenging month for sure. We were able to be present when our dear friend, Jim Falk, passed into the presence of the Lord on February 7. We then returned for the visitation and memorial service. Lindy was able to spend some extra days with Sandee. Please pray for Sandee, and their children and grandchildren as they grieve.
On February 16, Lindy’s mom fell again requiring hospitalization and around the clock care for 9 days. Her sisters carried the load while we were in Indianapolis with the Falks. Now Mom is back in memory care. The days ahead feel uncertain and yet we know our good Father cares more for Mom than we do. Please pray for wisdom as we are always making little and big decisions for her care.
Vic just returned from several days in Albuquerque. Praise God for the opportunity he had to serve one of the key missions of the Navigators, Disciplemakers for Life. This was the first time their leadership team met with their new directors. Vic led in prayer times and integrated into their discussions and planning for the future. God spoke in very clear ways.
Next week, March 8-11, Lindy will be at the Executive Team offsite. These are critical days with several other staff joining us along with a consultant as we wrestle with setting up an integrated leadership structure for the years ahead. There will be other key topics like our recent Engagement Survey and strategy execution. Our big God is inviting us to dream big, pray big, and hope big! Please pray Joshua 1:9, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”
March 11-13, Vic will be in Cincinnati for our annual African American Network Conference. He will be leading a prayer time on Friday night seeking to engage deeply with the heart of God. This conference has proven to be a milestone for many through the years. Pray for God to meet us all in powerful, clear, healing ways.
March 21, 22, Vic will lead students and staff from Miami of Ohio University in probing John 15 and other passages revealing the truth of abiding in Christ. Pray for a deep, engaging connection with these folks, and for the truth and mystery of abiding to be planted in their hearts.
Our Alpha 2.0 group is exploring the Gospels with the backdrop of “The Chosen” videos. Pray that they would grow more deeply in love with Jesus and give their lives away to others.
March 25-27, Lindy will attend the Trueface Board meetings in Phoenix. If you would like to see a project Lindy participated in last May with Trueface, watch this short trailer on a new resource, Crazy-Making.
(please cut and paste into your browser:)
https://app.rightnowmedia.org/en/content/details/568069?session=568469
2/5/22
Vic and Lindy Black's February Update
3 - 6 We were schedule to visit Jim and Sandee Falk in Indianapolis, but our flight was just cancelled! Jim has a rare cancer that attacks his pancreas and liver. He cannot tolerate chemo treatments. He is at home with hospice care. We are very close to Jim and Sandee. Please pray we can see them soon and be all God wants us to be for them in this crisis.
7 - 9 are Executive Leadership Team meetings. As everyone is getting accustomed to the new rhythms, pray for unity and oneness as Jesus prayed in John 17: 21,22, “that they may all be one; even as You, Father, are in Me and I in You, that they also may be in Us, so that the world may believe that You sent Me. “The glory which You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one, just as We are one; I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfected in unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me, and loved them, even as You have loved Me.”
17 - 22 We are in Huntsville, Alabama with our daughter, Ashley, her husband, Benjamin, and their four kids. Pray for an encouraging, refreshing time for everyone.
With Lindy’s role as Associate U.S. Director continuing to be shaped to best serve Marvin Campbell, our new U.S. Director, pray for a beautiful and powerful sense of oneness to form between Lindy and Marvin. The absolutely amazing thing is we are all very, very close friends! Pray for God to strengthen our relationships for His glory and for the advancement of HIs Kingdom.
Vic’s role is still emerging with links to Marvin (U.S. Director), Nations Within Mission, the Fire Team (prayer team), and developing new Fire Teams around the U.S. and around the world.
1/5//22
Vic and Lindy Black's January Update
Christmas and the week following was spent primarily with Lindy’s Mom and Dad. We had good time with the Lord, watched Christmas movies, and read a lot. Our anticipated Monday morning launch to the new year did not go as expected. Mom fell and broke her collar bone. Vic’s phone literally blew up. And our dear and lifelong friends, Jim and Sandee Falk, received news that Jim has stage 4 cancer (pancreatic) with months to live. They were just with us for 7 days in December.
We plead to the Lord for mercy and help for those who are sick and hurting. We long for the Gospel and power of God to move in and through our lives, our friends, and The Navigators, impacting a despairing world. As a friend recently wrote, “We believe big things about God, we stand with our full weight on the big promises of God. We ask big things of God in prayer, and we expect big things from God as He answers.”
In light of this, here are a few key things for you to seek God for on our behalf:
d As both Vic and Lindy face a new season in 2022, pray we will listen to God for our
rhythms of life, prayers of faith, and how He wants us to live, love and minister.
d January 10-13, Lindy will engage in meetings with the new Executive Team and with
the new Field Directors at their offsite. We want to see the new things God is leading
us into become prayers of faith with great dependence on Him.
d As we launch a new year with our Alpha 2.0 group, pray Colossians 2:6-7 over them.
“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in Him,
rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and
overflowing with thankfulness.”
We will also have opportunities to serve Mom and Dad, give our Denver kids a weekend away for their anniversary, and participate in a number of significant one to one and group meetings. More than anything, in all we do, we want to love the Lord our God with all our being, and love others well!
12/16/21
Vic and Lindy Black's December Update
Our hearts are filled with gratitude for our family and the wonderful time we shared at Thanksgiving, celebrating Raylin’s adoption.
Could we ask you to pause right now and pray for Vic’s eye? Thursday, December 2, he was referred to a retina specialist due to a possible tear in his retina. The specialist confirmed a horseshoe tear and did immediate laser repair. He returns Monday morning for a checkup. There are three possibilities: everything is fine, more laser repair is needed, or immediate surgery if the laser approach did not work. Please pray for everything to be fine!
On Monday evening, December 6, Vic and the three other men who steward the ongoing God-focus movement around the world, will meet virtually to discuss what God is doing in our contexts. Pray for mutual encouragement and for insight in how to best serve this critical movement in The Navigators.
On December 7, Mark Lewis and Vic will pray all night in The Navigators HQ building. Several others may also join. Would you pray for all our hearts to be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leadership? Pray for discernment as we listen to God for anything He wants to say to us.
December 13-17 is NLT week. This includes the final meeting day for the current National Leadership Team and a Christmas party with them. It also includes the newly formed Executive Team meetings. Lindy plays a key role in both and wants to use her voice and influence wisely. Please pray for this.
December 9-23 is filled with company, a number of Christmas celebrations, and finishing the year faithfully and strong in our ministry. (And the 70th birthday of someone!)
We will be home for Christmas. We plan on Lindy’s Mom and Dad being with us. Please pray for some very rest-filled days as we celebrate our Savior’s birth and who we are in Him.
MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM OUR HEARTS TO YOURS!
11/15/21
Vic and Lindy Black's November Update
Happy November! Thought we would share a lighter moment from our Alpha 2.0 Bible study this weekend. Jack Sparrow accompanied Bat Woman for the evening. We’ve had a fabulous time exploring the Scriptures with our friends. We will finish the book of Philippians this month. Would you pray for Bill, Julie, Dea, and Preston to be rooted and built up in Christ (Colossians 2:6,7)?
Today, November 2, Lindy leads the National Leadership Team meeting. Marvin Campbell stepped into his role as our U.S. Director on November 1. Pray for him to have spiritual wisdom and insight as he leads. He and Lindy are working well together, discerning with others how he will set up his leadership in the months ahead. And pray for Lindy as she has great hope and also experiences losses in the transition.
TOMORROW, November 3, is Jason and Adrienne’s court date for Raylin’s adoption. She is now two years old and has been with them since she was three days old. This has been a long process and we are so excited with them and for their family. Please rejoice with us and pray a blessing over Raylin today. We will be able to include pictures next month.
Vic travels to Texas Tech to speak at their fall retreat Nov 4-8. Pray for simplicity and motivation as they engage in a creative and expansive view of prayer.
Lindy will spend November 12-14 in the mountains for an annual “Gratitude Weekend” with Julie and Dea from our Alpha 2.0 group. Pray for depth with the Lord, in the Word, and in our friendship.
We have extensive communication to write and prepare during the week of November 15. Would you please pray for discernment and wisdom as we express our thankfulness to so many who pray and support us? We also need to communicate effectively on our year-end funding letter. Please ask the Lord to go before us and anoint these words from our hearts.
Lindy and I will travel to Oceans Springs, MS for Thanksgiving and family time November 20-27. This will include a celebration party for God’s goodness in bringing Raylin Naomi into our family.
10/1/21
Vic and Lindy Black's October Update
We do not know where we would be without your prayers. The suffering of friends, the realities of failing parents, the busyness of life, and the changes ahead with a new U.S. Director can some days feel too much. Psalm 46 has been a great place of meditation and hope for us. “God is our refuge and strength, always ready to help in times of trouble…the nations are in chaos…be still and know that I am God! The Lord of Heaven’s Armies is here among us…”
Our travel has really increased this month. (note: Vic loves this and Lindy does moderately okay) While this is a list of dates, there is much prayer needed for our impact and interactions that will literally include hundreds of people this month.
September 30 - October 3, Lindy and Vic will be attend the Trueface board annual couples’ retreat. Lindy is on the board of Trueface. Pray for unity and strong growing relationships.
Lindy and Vic will attend The Navigators’ President’s Weekend in Tuscan, AZ, October 5-10. Please pray as many new anchor donors experience a deeper look into the breadth and depth of The Navigators. Lindy will be speaking twice.
Lindy will attend the National Leadership Team offsite meeting, October 12 - 14. The critical issue they face is the transition from Doug Nuenke’s leadership to Marvin Campbell’s new leadership as the U.S. Director November 1. Please pray for oneness and for the Holy Spirit to lead powerfully.
Vic will attend the Nations Within annual gathering, October 13 - 18. Several events are rolled into this one trip. This is a much needed time of face to face connecting for many after a long separation due to COVID. Would you pray for relationships to be strengthened and for great development through our speakers and workshops?
Lindy attends the wedding of our nephew, Tyler Lord, October 15-17, in Minneapolis. She is so excited to be a part of this great celebration.
Vic has an electrocardiogram on October 21 to be sure his heart is in good shape following his last A fib episode.
While we are grateful for healthy bodies, we know many of our family and friends are suffering due to Covid and its on-going impact. We pray for God’s mercy for you. Please pray for a full experience of grace for us – to stand firm and secure in His favor.
7/27/2021
Vic and Lindy Black's
August Update
Cousin Camp 2021
Soundbites: Healthy kids... No
injuries... Incredible memories...
Excellent devotions in Luke 11 on Ask, Seek, and Knock...
S’mores in the fire pit... Grandpa’s crafts in the garage... Awesome hikes and fishing!
Also this summer, Lindy’s mom is adjusting fairly well going into week 5 in memory care. The harder struggle is for Dad. Continue praying for him in his adjustment to this new reality. He is in the same facility as Mom in an independent living apartment.
A critical project for Vic this month is helping write the 40 Day Prayer Journey leading up to the selection of a new U.S. Director in late August. It’s 27 days until the new Director is selected! We invite you to join us on our 40 Day Prayer Journey by following the subscription link below. We are finishing week 2 of seeking God and His Presence.
Aug. 2-6, we will join Doug and Pam Nuenke for the final gathering of Sharpen the Axe leader development. This is a bittersweet event as we bring closure to this 2 year engagement with some of the key leaders in The Navigators from around the world. Please pray for us - to love and encourage well so these men and women are equipped and built up in their lives and leadership.
National Leadership Team meets Aug. 16-19. We will be preparing our minds and hearts for the USD selection, along with receiving several critical reports and the ensuing dialogues. Pray for deep encouragement, faith, and unity.
Selection Council meets Aug. 21-26. Forty men and women from around the country will gather to seek the Lord and engage in a process of discernment toward the selection of a new U.S. Director. This is a momentous event. Lindy is the Convener of the Council and Vic will be leading an onsite prayer team. Ask the Lord with us to pour out His Spirit of oneness, and discernment. Ask the Lord for His selection to be abundantly clear to everyone.
Thanks so much for praying!
Vic & Lindy
6/30/2021
Vic and Lindy Black's
July Update
Thank you for praying for us over the past weeks. We both experienced times when the grace and help given was supernatural. We are sure it is when you prayed for us. Highlights for Vic were being with students and staff at two summer training programs and finishing a patio in our back yard. For Lindy, there was a great deal of planning – for the many moving parts for The Navigators to transition to a new U.S. Director, to get her mom moved to memory care, and to be ready for nine grandkids to arrive today.
That’s right. Cousin Camp begins today! July 1-5 with several staying for extra days with Grandpa and Grandma. It is the highlight of our summer and we can’t wait.
We have four primary areas for prayer this month:
July 1-17 and 26-30 are when we will have grandchildren with us. Please join us as we ask for protection from evil, sickness, and injury. For fabulous memories together! And for us to love each of them intentionally, lavishly, and with joy! (they range from 5 to 16 years old)
National Leadership Team – meetings the week of July 12 for Lindy and a couples’ retreat July 18-21. We are all feeling the shifting under our feet as we move toward the selection of a new U.S. Director in August. We continue our study in John, focusing this month on John 13-17. Jesus was preparing His disciples for a major change. His prayer in John 17 is so real and personal to us these days. We ask you to join us in praying His thoughts for us - to bring the Father glory, for protection from the evil one, to be made holy, to know His love, to be one as Father, Son and Holy Spirit are one…
We are launching a 40 Days of Prayer journey for our Navigator family on July 15. (we will give you the opportunity to join if you want to) This is primarily an invitation to seek the Lord, personally and together, leading up to the selection of a new U.S. Director. Please pray for God to pour out His Spirit in a powerful and undeniable way on all who join us. May this be a significant move of God to establish a new normal for unity and oneness in Him and with one another.
Lindy's mom, Julie, moved to memory care on June 26. This has been very difficult and overwhelming. Each day gets a little better for Mom and for Dad. Please pray for them to experience peace and know how to live apart after 67 years of marriage.
6/6/2021
Vic and Lindy Black's
June Update
There are changes coming as The Navigators U.S. President, Doug Nuenke, will be stepping down by the end of the year. The process to select a new director are underway. You should receive our quarterly snail mail prayer letter this week with more details, including the implications for Lindy.
You can begin praying Numbers 28:15-18 for The Navigators. It is the prayer of Moses toward the end of his life: "…Please appoint a new man as leader for the community. Give them someone who will guide them wherever they go and will lead them into battle, so the community of the Lord will not be like sheep without a shepherd." Amen!
This week, Lindy has National Leadership Team meetings, subgroups, and a department barbeque. They will continue their study of the Gospel of John, press into details of the selection of a new U. S. Director, learn more about The Equality Act and its impact on our ministry, work on budget issues, and more. Lindy will also meet with the Executive Committee of our Board of Directors on Thursday. As always, pray for oneness, wisdom, and courage by the power of the Holy Spirit.
Vic has two trips he is excited about. Pray for anointing and words of encouragement in and through him.
11 - 13, Vic flies to Bozeman, Montana to lead a day of prayer on Saturday and to come alongside staff and key student leaders to encourage, challenge and equip them with a deeper look into God’s Word.
15 - 18, Vic drives to Snow Mountain Ranch to speak at a collegiate summer training program. After speaking on the Gospel from the viewpoint of the presence of God, he will have a morning of training of the team leaders for the program.
26 - 27, Vic and Mark Lewis pray together with the national leaders of our Native Nations Network. They will seek God and listen to His leadership as they explore praying in different areas of The Navigator property here in Colorado Springs.
Please continue to pray for Lindy's parents. Her mom is in late stage Alzheimer's and more help and care is needed. Pray for wisdom and help from the Lord for Mom and Dad, and for us kids!
5/4/2021
Vic and Lindy Black's
May Update
Looking back at April... Vic’s trip to Cincinnati was very encouraging reconnecting with collegiate staff in the field! Lindy’s array of national and international meetings was richly blessed by God with unity and wisdom in leading the work! Some are saying the virtual JUMA Conference was our best yet! Vic’s Texas trip was a powerful connection with our Nations Within staff. Thanks for praying!
April 29 – May 3 We have time with our son, Jason, and Adrienne and their five kids. Please pray for great memories to be made, great fun, and great interactions!
May 4-7 Sharpen the Axe (STA) leader development in Florida. We will focus on leading from the Scriptures and out of our Navigator calling, values, and vision. We will also look at diversity and belonging on teams, building strategy, and understanding support ministries in our organization. Pray for protection from all evil, for excellent dialogue that grows hope for our souls, and a deep oneness. Pray for God to be brought great honor. Please pray for Doug Nuenke and Lindy as they prepare to lead, teach, and guide the time.
May 10-14 NLT week – Please pray for each of the subgroups and meetings. The team continues to move the work forward in leading and executing our national strategy focused on the 2030 goal of one million disciplemakers. Pray for each of us to experience the anointing and empowering of the Holy Spirit.
May 16-17 – Lindy will be videoed, teaching the new Trueface small group material. She needs prayer for her preparation - to listen to the leading of the Holy Spirit.
May 18-22 – We visit Ashley and Benjamin and their four kids in Alabama. What a wonderful privilege we have to be mobile once again! Pray for great connections with their family. Ask the Lord for significant memories with each one and great fun!
Memorial Day weekend – Our Alpha 2.0 group has a retreat in the mountains. We will finish Philippians and discuss how we can grow together in Christ. You may remember one year ago, two of these friends stepped into a new relationship with Christ on this same weekend.
4/6/2021
VIC & LINDY BLACK’S
APRIL UPDATE
Vic travels to Cincinnati April 8th - 11th to facilitate their first face-to-face regional collegiate team gathering since COVID hit! And it’s for families! Please pray as we explore and discuss Abiding More Deeply in Christ, that their experience would be eye-opening and hands-on practical.
NLT week is April 12th -15th. Areas they will focus on include their study of the book of John, team communication, cultural development, and financial considerations. Pray for powerful unity just as Jesus prayed in John 17:23, “I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfected in unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me, and loved them, even as You have loved Me.”
Thursday, 15th, Lindy meets with the Board Executive Committee to bring a progress report on the implementation of our national strategy.
Thursday, 22nd, the national leadership team meets with the International Executive Team to discuss areas of partnership. Once again, we need to have unity and the mind of Christ.
Friday and Saturday, 23rd, 24th, is Nations Within’s annual Juma Conference. We will hold this conference virtually. It’s just not safe yet for many to travel. Pray for clarity and open hearts to learn the subtleties of ministering to those of another culture and religion.
Vic and John Hess, Director of Nations Within, visit our ministry locations throughout Texas April 25th - 27th. Pray we can bring hope and encouragement to each of them.
Please pray for Lindy in the planning and preparation for the Sharpen the Axe gathering
May 4th - 7th.
Please pray as several prayer efforts continue with the need to see breakthroughs individually and organizationally.
Please pray Romans 15:13 for us, “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
3/9/2021
VIC & LINDY BLACK’S MARCH UPDATE
2021
Pictured are friends in our Alpha 2.0 (our nick name) Bible discussion group in the book of Philippians. Pray they will become the foundation of many future spiritual generations. We will meet several times this month for dinner and life to life experience in the Bible.
Here is a national “did you know video” we thought you might enjoy that tells of the
broader Navigator work around the U.S.
We are excited and expectant as travel and face to face opportunities are opening up. Lindy has received her second COVID vaccine and Vic gets his second soon. We are very grateful!
7-12, Lindy will be in Texas for the NLT Offsite. Along with discussion on our recent Culture Engagement Survey and planning around our national strategy, we’ll spend focused time in the Gospel of John and also discuss the book The Culture by James C. Hunter. A highlight will be welcoming our new team member, Andrew Ginsburg, who will join us as our Chief Communications, Development, and Marketing Officer. Pray we will listen closely to the Lord and to each other during this time. Pray for relationships to be strengthened (along with some great fun together).
16-18, Lindy will rendezvous with a close friend in Phoenix. Vic joins her there 19-21 as they participate in the semi-annual Trueface Board meetings. This is rapidly becoming a place of joy in the work of the Kingdom. Pray for the mind of Christ and His blessing on these days.
28-April 1, Lindy’s annual Winter Camp with other women staff leaders is happening. Cancelling last year was hard, but even harder is the reality that one of these women is now with the Lord. Pray for rich time with the Lord and one another, bringing joy, courage, and perspective!
28-April 1, Vic is south of Dallas, TX with Mark Lewis. This is a time for personal renewal, shared encouragement, and spurring each other on to deeper and passionate devotion
to Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Pray for our time together.
Lindy’s on-going planning for several teams and meetings is an area of strength for her and stewardship for The Navigators. Would you ask for “ears to hear” the voice of the Spirit as she thinks, plans and prays?
Vic is pulling together a team of Nations Within staff to partner with him in developing those connected to Nations Within mission in life-changing engagement, belief, and experience of abiding in Christ.
Your partnership in praying for us is foundational to all we do. Thank you!
2/7/2021
VIC & LINDY BLACK’S FEBRUARY UPDATE
Thank you for praying for Sharpen the Axe. After ten intense hours (Jan 27, 28), fifteen time zones, thirteen breakout groups, and multiple well-honed presentations, it was a great success! More planning is in the works this month as this great group of national leaders enters their fourth of five modules with graduation in October.
Please pray for Lindy’s dad, Bob Lord, as he has hernia surgery on Tuesday, February 9.
He is 91 years old!
This week is National Leadership Team week for Lindy. She really appreciates your prayers each second week of the month when they meet. Monday, 8th, three hour meeting with Doug Nuenke, our US President, to fine-tune multiple agendas this month and for future months.
Lindy also has to ensure all contributors are ready for the meeting on Tuesday. Tuesday, 9th, is a full day meeting. There is always a focus on team building, prayer, and the Scriptures in the morning. Wisdom and discernment are needed for their leadership of our national strategy 2030. Lindy needs prayer to be able to hold the tension of having robust discussions on key issues with the reality of our timeframe. As she leads the meeting tomorrow, please ask the Lord for Holy Spirit joy and grace.
Wednesday, 10th, the NLT Field Subgroup meets to discuss key personnel issues and people in the field. Lindy facilitates this meeting as well.
Tuesday, 16th, the Strategy Core Team meets. This is one of the most challenging of Lindy’s current responsibilities as the stakes are high and the group continues to learn new muscles of leading strategically at the right level and ensuring accountability. Please pray for oneness and wisdom!
Throughout the month and every month, Vic has staff he mentors, trains, or shepherds. Having this impact in the lives of leaders is very sobering. Please pray that every word, suggestion, or direction will come from a deep time of listening to the Holy Spirit regarding what He is doing in the lives of these people.
Partnership would perhaps capture our perspective on how we see ourselves working “with” God, not “for” Him. 1 Corinthians 2:9-16 (Really, the whole chapter!) captures this powerful reality. Here are a few excerpts from the New Living Translation... Please pray this for us...
“For his Spirit searches out everything and shows us God’s deep secrets... no one can know God’s thoughts except God’s own Spirit. And we have received God’s Spirit, so we can know the wonderful things God has freely given us. We do not use words that come from human wisdom. Instead, we speak words given to us by the Spirit, using the Spirit’s words to explain spiritual truths.”
May our relationship with the Holy Spirit be so deep, so dependent, so constant that these words of Paul with the Corinthians accurately represent our union with God so as to bless, encourage, and empower those we have the privilege of influencing for the Kingdom of God.
1/10/2021
VIC & LINDY BLACK’S MONTHLY UPDATE
January, 2020
Wow! Are you as relieved as we are that 2020 is in the rear-view mirror? Without a doubt,
God did remarkable things in re-training us for ministry and virtual interaction. May our great God and King give hope and endurance for us all as we begin 2021.
This is a recent picture of our family ice skating here in Colorado Springs for our post-Christ- mas gathering. All of our kids and grandkids were able to be here! Good food, lots of food, fun and games, sledding, and deep conversations filled our hearts and souls with their sacrificial visit. We are so grateful! And everyone is healthy!
Already this year, our “go to” passage is Isaiah 43:18,19.
“Forget the former things;
do not dwell on the past.
See, I am doing a new thing!
Now it springs up; do you not perceive it?
I am making a way in the wilderness
and streams in the wasteland.” (NIV)
We’re watching for the “new things” God intends to do. As we continue to embrace the responsibilities He has entrusted to us, pray we will plan, work, and pray with expectant
faith and hope from a deep sense of security In His promises.
The National Leadership Team meeting and subgroups meet 11th - 14th. As Lindy leads these essential meetings, pray for a strong start into 2021. This week, they will focus on God’s promises,
key financial decisions, establishing strategic priorities for the next six months, and planning for the next President’s Gathering. Join in thanking God for the new senior VP of Marketing, Communication and Development who will join the team in March.
Kingdom Keys (16th) is a cross-cultural training conference provided by Nations Within for many who want to be equipped for the nuances often hidden as they seek to reach their
friends in a challenging cultural context. Vic will present a workshop on Spiritual Authority for this gathering.
Sharpen the Axe meets virtually 27th - 28th. You may recall that STA is a leadership development process designed to prepare the next generation of national leaders. Lindy and Doug
Nuenke (U.S. Director) will work together in equipping these leaders.
Rejoice with us that we not only finished 2020 “in the black,” but God provided through many of you to build a surplus of annual gifts that will supplement our monthly income for most of
2021!
12/6/2020
VIC & LINDY BLACK’S MONTHLY UPDATE
December, 2020
Do you have COVID fatigue? We do. And we think it’s contagious! We long to freely engage face to face with friends, family, and co-workers. How about you? Here is a prayer from Psalm 69:1-3 that we invite you to pray with us:
"God, our God, come and save us! These floods of trouble have risen higher and higher. The water is up to our necks! We’re sinking into the mud with no place to stand, and we’re about to drown in this storm. We’re weary, exhausted with weeping. Our throats are dry, our voices are gone, our eyes are swollen with sorrow, and we’re waiting for you, God, to come through for us.” (I took the liberty of changing the first person singular, “I, me, my,” to the first person plural, “we, us, our,” for emphasis and connection.)
Without a doubt, many are suffering in far greater ways than we are. But may we suggest that even as we apply David’s heart cry to God for ourselves, we also extend his prayer to those around us, to those suffering desperately.
The National Leadership Team (NLT) meets virtually for their monthly meeting and all sub- groups (December 7-11). Lindy asks for prayer for Spirit anointed excellence as she leads and facilitates. There are two major strategic project teams that have completed their work. The implications of these groups’ research, data, and recommendations is a major part of their discussions. Pray for discernment and understanding.
We are moving to a final slate of candidates for a new senior vice president of development. Two candidates will be meeting with a variety of groups over the next ten days. Ask God to call and confirm His calling on the one He has in mind for this crucial role. This is a major prayer request for the whole of The Navigators.
We are seeking to end the year in a place of strength relationally, financially, spiritually, and in our leadership. All of these areas require attention and intention. Would you pray for the Lord to help us?
We will be quarantining the week before Christmas and trusting that our plans to spend the week after Christmas with all of our kids and grandkids will be a reality. Please pray for the joy of the Lord, the protection of God Almighty, and the happiness of family to be ours the week of December 26 - January 2.
May your Christmas, even though it may be modified due to COVID, be full of love, grace, and the presence of Jesus. “For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulders: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and peace there shall be no end, upon the throne of David, and upon his kingdom, to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even for ever. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this.” Isaiah 9:6,7
11/5/2020
VIC & LINDY BLACK’S MONTHLY UPDATE
Yes, Lindy is quarantined for two weeks! She had direct contact with someone who tested positive for COVID 19. She wants you to know she likes the fact I have to go to the grocery store and run all errands now! She feels good currently but asks your prayers for mercy for her and the others who were exposed.
Today, 5th, was our weekly Fire Team prayer gathering. Recently, we experienced a rather profound “assignment” from the Lord to pray over our Navigator property. Five of us went to the north, south, east, and west borders to pray, seek the Lord, and “seal” our property from evil. Now we are seek- ing Father, Son, and Holy Spirit for His next assignment for us inside the headquarters building. This is a fascinating and challenging engagement as we follow God in His leadership. We believe our prayers also extend around the world, touching our ministries expansively to the north, south, east, and west. Please pray with us to hear the Lord clearly and to follow Him courageously in faith.
The National Leadership Team (NLT) meets virtually due to quarantining the week of November 9. Needless to say, their experience of leading our national work is being stretched! They will be discussing James Hunter’s book, The Culture, which is a great read on leadership. (sequel to The Servant) There will also be discussions and subgroup meetings on personnel, strategy, communication and finances. Pray for a deep oneness bringing glory to God and joy to their hearts.
This weekend, 6-7, is our virtual Juntos Conference for our Latino staff and friends. Vic gives a workshop on Abiding in Christ twice on Saturday. A new and different virtual platform will be used for this conference. Pray for Vic and everyone to “get the hang” of this new software and to touch lives deeply, encouraging them to walk strongly with Christ in this crazy world we live in.
The Navigator 20’s Mission is having their national conference the weekend of 13-15. Vic has been asked to lead a special session on Sunday, the 15th, engaging 20’s across the U.S. in an Abide Catalyst experience (see these catalysts from any web browser, type in “abide catalyst.”) Please pray for a deep heart connection with these young adults and staff. May they taste abiding in Christ in fresh, new ways.
We both have many one-to-one meetings. We want to be hope-givers and active listeners. Please pray for this.
In this season of thanksgiving, we give thanks for each of you who prays - whether once, weekly, or daily. Without you standing in the gap, we would be vulnerable to darkness and a loss of hope. We are deeply grateful!
Thanks for praying,
Vic & Lindy
10/7/2020
VIC & LINDY BLACK’S MONTHLY UPDATE
Thanks so much for praying last month! Our speaking opportunities went very well. In some cases we were able to be “face to face.” That changes the environment so positively! Lindy’s personal retreat was incredibly renewing, encouraging, and restorative!
Another wonderful development has allowed easy access to my Abide Catalysts. You can go to any web browser and simply type in “abide catalyst” in the search line. My Abide Catalyst page in Navigators.org should pop up first on your list of options.
This weekend we do our final Alpha video with the two couples. We continue to see results of new life in all of them. Please pray specifically for our decision in what to do next. No one wants to stop meeting and growing!
The National Leadership Team has two significant weeks of meetings this month. October 12-15 includes their team monthly meeting and subgroups. October 27-30 is an offsite. As Lindy coordinates, leads and facilitates, pray for her (and for the team) to experience the ministry of the Holy Spirit as they seek to hear His voice and follow His leadership.
Lindy has been invited to be on the board of Trueface. We will travel to north Georgia for their board couples’ retreat, October 16-18. Pray we can be an encouragement to these new partners in God’s
Kingdom work.
Nations Within will have their annual Juma Conference virtually, October 23-24. Pray for effective equipping for each one present.
Vic will co-host an all staff prayer hour for our U.S. staff, October 22. Pray for clarity, vision, and unity as our staff seek the Lord with one heart as one work, praying one prayer, together!
Throughout October, Vic will be leading two Abide Catalyst groups, one face to face and one with Zoom. Pray these will be eye opening for those attending, that abiding more deeply in Christ would become more expansive and experiential for each attendee.
Please pray Ephesians 3:16-19 for us, from The Passion Translation: “And I pray that he would unveil within you the unlimited riches of his glory and favor until supernatural strength floods your inner-most being with his divine might and explosive power. Then, by constantly using your faith, the life of Christ will be released deep inside you, and the resting place of his love will become the very source and root of your life. Then you will be empowered to discover what every holy one experiences - the great magnitude of the astonishing love of Christ in all its dimensions. How deeply intimate and far-reaching is his love! How enduring and inclusive it is! Endless love beyond measurement that transcends our understanding - this extravagant love pours into you until you are filled to overflowing with the fullness of God!”
8/3/2020
Prayer Update from Vic and Lindy
August 2020
Cousin Camp (with 8 cousins), followed by “Family Camp” (younger siblings and parents), and an extra week with our oldest grandson wrapped up July 18. Our hearts are full and we are so grateful for more fun than we could have imagined, great memories, and God's grace and protection. You can get a glimpse of our joy with all 12 grands pictured here. We are thankful we pulled off this picture in the midst of the chaos!
Vic continues with two new Abide Catalyst groups on Mondays and Wednesdays. Please pray for open hearts and minds and for excellent engagement. He did an all-day Abide Catalyst last Saturday with the Minneapolis staff team. They covered 5 catalysts throughout the day. Pray that God would lead them deeper into His heart for abiding from their experience.
Fire Team, 15 men and women who pray together every Thursday for two hours, are being clearly led by the Holy Spirit into abiding, listening, and waiting on the Lord. Thank you for praying!
Tomorrow (4th), Lindy has an extensive NLT Finance Committee meeting to finalize the fiscal budget for 2020/21. With a key player having just left the organization and COVID realities, the weight of this task seems heavy. Please pray.
Tomorrow evening through Friday (4th-7th), the National Leadership Team Council is together (some virtually) to continue their two year development as future executive leaders for The Navigators. These 9 men and women have significant leadership roles now. Along with teammate Mark, Lindy will be facilitating Bible study, case studies, and content discussions around administration and finance as critical support functions of a non-profit ministry. Please pray for wisdom, learning and understanding for each participant.
August 10-14 is National Leadership Team week. With sickness, death of parents, one team member having left, and the ongoing crisis in our country, both racially and the pandemic, the issues faced by the NLT are significant. Please be in prayer for them. As a reminder, Lindy leads these meetings.
The Navigator Board of Directors meets virtually, August 20-21. Lindy will give a presentation during new member orientation on our national strategy. At a governance level, much of what the NLT is facing is also being experienced by the Board. Please pray for our Board of Directors. (and to say, this is an exceptional group of trusted men and women)
The International Executive Team, together with their seven Regional Directors, meet August 24-28 virtually via Zoom. Lindy and I will engage in these meetings throughout the week. Please pray for the Holy Spirit to help us overcome the challenges of not being face to face as we meet.
6/30/2020
Prayer Update from Vic and Lindy Black
July 2020
We just finished our second gathering with the third group of Sharpen The Axe leader development, June 23-26. Social distancing was achieved by only having 23 people in a room that normally seats over 200. Five participants joined via Zoom. The focus was the inner life of a leader. Looking at the lives of Saul, David, and Elijah in the Scripture, and discussing content from Overcoming the Dark Side of Leadership and Leadership and Self Deception were key parts of the very rich time we shared. But as always, the greatest joy was in sharing our lives, praying together, and learning from one another!
Our family begins arriving today. Our annual Cousin Camp, with eight cousins, Is June 30-July 3.
Then the parents and younger four cousins join for a family weekend over the 4th.
Eli Black, our 11 year old grandson, gets to stay the “extra week” with us this year, July 12-18. He will attend Eagle Lake Day Camp. We are really looking forward to this special time with this very fine young man!
As you can imagine, these days are filled with opportunities for great fun and happiness. Would you pray protection from all illness and injury for our whole family? And would you ask the Lord to bless these weeks with His love, favor, peace and joy for all of us?
July 13-17 is National Leadership Team week for Lindy. They continue to face very tough decisions in the face of COVID-19 along with the social unrest and racial tensions in our country. Pray for unity and much grace for the team. And as you can imagine, Lindy may be a little tired going in to the week.
July 20-24 is our NLT Couples' Retreat. As we get away, pray for deepening of relationships. Once again, the reality and fallout of COVID-19 has put a huge strain on many. Pray for refreshment, encouragement, and restoration.
July 29, Vic launches a new series of Abide Catalysts with Nations Within. Our desire is that every staff in Nations Within experience these thought-provoking pieces on ab
