GMAF NEWSLETTER

July-August 2002

Welcome to the GMAF Newsletter! We pray it will encourage you in your Martial Arts and Outreach for Christ.

"And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying, Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness' sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake."

Jesus Christ

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ."

The Apostle Paul

"Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper."

King David

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ: According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved. In whom we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of his grace; Wherein he hath abounded toward us in all wisdom and prudence; Having made known unto us the mystery of his will, according to his good pleasure which he hath purposed in himself: That in the dispensation of the fulness of times he might gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on earth; even in him: In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will: That we should be to the praise of his glory, who first trusted in Christ."

"Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing in Christ. For he chose us in him before the creation of the world to be holy and blameless in his sight. In love he predestined us to be adopted as his sons through Jesus Christ, in accordance with his pleasure and will-- to the praise of his glorious grace, which he has freely given us in the One he loves. In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God's grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding. And he made known to us the mystery of his will according to his good pleasure, which he purposed in Christ, to be put into effect when the times will have reached their fulfillment--to bring all things in heaven and on earth together under one head, even Christ. In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will, in order that we, who were the first to hope in Christ, might be for the praise of his glory."

"Bendito el Dios y Padre del Señor nuestro Jesucristo, el cual nos bendijo con toda bendición espiritual en lugares celestiales en Cristo: Según nos escogió en él antes de la fundación del mundo, para que fuésemos santos y sin mancha delante de él en amor; Habiéndonos predestinado para ser adoptados hijos por Jesucristo á sí mismo, según el puro afecto de su voluntad, Para alabanza de la gloria de su gracia, con la cual nos hizo aceptos en el Amado: En el cual tenemos redención por su sangre, la remisión de pecados por las riquezas de su gracia, Que sobreabundó en nosotros en toda sabiduría é inteligencia; Descubriéndonos el misterio de su voluntad, según su beneplácito, que se había propuesto en sí mismo, De reunir todas las cosas en Cristo, en la dispensación del cumplimiento de los tiempos, así las que están en los cielos, como las que están en la tierra: En él digo, en quien asimismo tuvimos suerte, habiendo sido predestinados conforme al propósito del que hace todas las cosas según el consejo de su voluntad, Para que seamos para alabanza de su gloria, nosotros que antes esperamos en Cristo."

"Béni soit Dieu, le Père de notre Seigneur Jésus Christ, qui nous a bénis de toute sortes de bénédictions spirituelles dans les lieux célestes en Christ! En lui Dieu nous a élus avant la fondation du monde, pour que nous soyons saints et irrépréhensibles devant lui, nous ayant prédestinés dans son amour à être ses enfants d'adoption par Jésus Christ, selon le bon plaisir de sa volonté, à la louange de la gloire de sa grâce qu'il nous a accordée en son bien-aimé. En lui nous avons la rédemption par son sang, la rémission des péchés, selon la richesse de sa grâce, que Dieu a répandue abondamment sur nous par toute espèce de sagesse et d'intelligence, nous faisant connaître le mystère de sa volonté, selon le bienveillant dessein qu'il avait formé en lui-même, pour le mettre à exécution lorsque les temps seraient accomplis, de réunir toutes choses en Christ, celles qui sont dans les cieux et celles qui sont sur la terre. En lui nous sommes aussi devenus héritiers, ayant été prédestinés suivant la résolution de celui qui opère toutes choses d'après le conseil de sa volonté, afin que nous servions à la louange de sa gloire, nous qui d'avance avons espéré en Christ."

No matter what version or language, the truth is Christians are blessed. We are a special people uniquely loved and blessed by God.

In the world of Martial Arts(Karate, Kung fu, etc.) the "ultimate" self-defense would be one considered 100% effective against the most deadly attack, and applicable to any person using it. But no amount of proficiency in any of these fighting arts would serve as a defense against the most deadly attack of all. This assault destroys the very inward being of man. The Bible calls it sin. Why is it so dangerous?

1. IT ATTACKS EVERYONE

ROM. 3:23 - "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God."

ROM. 3:10 - "There is none righteous, no, not one."

2. ITS BLOW IS MORTAL

ROM. 6:23 - "For the wages of sin is death..."

PSALM 9:17 - "The wicked shall be turned into hell, and all the nations that
forget God." - The result is death, not only physically, but spiritually and eternally.

3. YOU ARE DEFENSELESS

ROMANS 3:20 - "Therefore by the deeds of the law there shall no flesh be justified in his sight: for by the law is the knowledge of sin." - Religion and good works cannot solve the problem of your sin.

BUT THE ULTIMATE SELF-DEFENSE HAS ALREADY BEEN PROVIDED FOR YOU:

ROM. 5:8 - "But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."

ROM. 6:23 - "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
- Jesus, the Son of God, took that mortal blow for you and me. He paid the price for sin, having never sinned Himself. Now He offers His righteousness to you in place of your sin. What a trade!

II Cor. 5:21 - "For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him." This is the great love God has for you! So, what do you do?

APPLY THIS ULTIMATE SELF-DEFENSE: TALK TO GOD...

1. REPENT OF YOUR SIN AND ASK GOD TO FORGIVE YOU.

ACTS 3:19 - "Repent(turn from sin to God) ye therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be blotted out..."

ROM. 10:13 - "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved."

2. BELIEVE AND RECEIVE.

John 1:12 -"But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name"

Rom. 10:9 - "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved."

3. MAKE THIS DECISION TODAY.

HEBREWS 3:15 - "Today, if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts."

JOHN 3:36 - "He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him."

Win this victory over sin and death today and take this step. Accept Jesus Christ as your only Lord and Saviour. Make Him your Master.

(If you would like to share your thoughts about any spiritual subject with the GMAF membership, please send an e-mail to mmcgee@gmaf.org or letter to: Mark McGee, Grace Martial Arts Fellowship, P.O. Box 262153, Tampa, Florida 33685)

Let me begin by saying that I alone am responsible for anything you read here and all hate mail or plaudits should be sent by return e-mail. No other member or advisor should be help responsible.

I have been personally disturbed at the growth in numbers of those who are claiming the title of Soke. I have also been taken aback by the number of 9th and 10th dans that are younger than 40 years of age. I believe we stand to lose credibility by letting our pride cloud our vision. Christian Martial arts should reflect the best of the arts, of the people, and of the Lord. Our standards should be kept high. Let me take a moment to bring into focus some wisdom from my 30 years of training, and from the greater seats of wisdom that Karl Marx and Mark Barlow offer. (These are men who run national systems that are recognized with whom I have voiced my concerns).

1) To be a Soke / founder you must have a system that has made an impact and has a following. This is not one school in your own town. It is a growing, expanding, usable system.

2) The system must be unique. To take an established system and change the names of a few or even all of the techniques does not constitute and new system. It constitutes plagiarism

3) If you paid someone to recognize your system you have just thrown your money away. Some rubber stamp does not make you a Soke. Anyone who would sell you a sokeship is himself invalid in the MA community or is at least considered to be VERY much out of line. I believe that to be established as a founder you should seek the approval of 3 or more established heads.

4) Sokeship is a big responsibility. It is not some badge of honor. It is a pain in the ....neck and has attached to it the responsibility of the direction of a system with the welfare of hundreds of students at stake. If you want a title, call yourself "grand poobah" and don't play with the welfare of students. They are learning your style to protect, defend, and improve. If it can not be used for that or you cannot teach to that level, you are endangering lives.

5) There is a difference between rank and Sokeship. Just because you are a founder does not make you a 10th dan. Most reputable organizations use one of two main requirements for rank. Some require about 2- 3 years for the lower ranks, 3 - 4 years between mid ranks, and 4 - 5 years between higher ranks and all of these are minimums. Some require as many years between dans as the rank itself. This means that it would take 2 to 3 years to get a 2nd dan, 3 to 4 years to get a 3rd dan, 4 to 5 years to get a 4th dan... So if you reached your 1st degree at the age of 16, which is the youngest many schools would give a shodan, you would be18 at 2nd, 21 at 3rd, 25 at 4th, 30 at 5th, 36 at 6th, 43 at 7th, 51 at 8th, 60 at 9th, 70 at10th using the strictest rankings.

Using the other common systems it would take to age 19 for 2nd, 22 for 3rd, 26 for 4th, 30 for 5th, 34 for 6th, 38 for 7th, 42 for 8th, 47 for 9th, 52 for 10th, and again I repeat, this is an absolute minimum. (I believe the time should increase between ranks as rank increases.)

Now, these are approximations and may vary by a few years (but I can't see them being off any much). Based on these stats, it does not take a mathematician to see that to claim a rank of 9th or 10th dan at the age of 25 or even 35 is incorrect. Soke / founder means you have the highest rank in the system but that rank does not have to be the highest available. As far as the style goes, sokeship makes rank a non-issue.

Other requirements for sokeship should be: Stability, the wisdom that comes with age, 36 to 40 years of age absolute minimum, Black belts in at least 2 styles, at least a 6th dan in any one style. A unique and applicable system, a documented system, a number of schools teaching the style...

6) If you have a calling on your life, that calling, be it teacher, pastor, or caregiver will always trump your rank. The moment you begin to believe that your rank is an issue, you have lost sight of your true calling. I am sure there are some who are called to be strictly in the MA ministry. I believe I am, but my calling to pastor Karate for Christ will always come above what rank I happen to have. Look at sokeship in a Christian art as servant-hood. The only time rank becomes an issue is when you make it one. We drag with us the burdens of those under us. We are called to minister, not lord over anyone. We are called to be gracious, slow to anger, compassionate, wise, and well balanced. We are called to have the strength of a man, the heart of a woman, and the mind of Christ. We are called to be helpers and counselors. I had rather be called teacher a thousand times than "Soke" once. The power of the position is in the ability to teach and lead. That is where lives are changed because it is there we can introduce others to Christ.

I am calling on our members to examine motives and abilities. Stay away from those who would blind you with flattery. Do not "buy into" the Sokeship for money trick. The people who would take your money and give you a paper are NOT legitimate. They themselves are charlatans.

Do not hold council with fools. You yourself may become one.

Work for the Lord. Treat those under you as if they were your brothers and sisters. You are no more than the least one of them.

Rank is sometimes equivalent to scars, breaks, and arthritis. (Certainly, in my case it is equivalent to stiffness, and loss of memory.)

Remember that we were better technicians at the age of 28 than at 38 or 48, so it is obvious that rank and strength or speed are not equal.

Here are the common requirements for anyone who seeks sokeship. These requirements were taken from various secular web sites. Shouldn't our requirements be at least as strict?

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1. One must be of high character and morals with no criminal records. Any letters of character reference from a high ranking Police Officer from your home town, Priest, Pastor or Minister may be submitted along with the application but is not required.

2. One must have at least a grade of Godan, 5th Dan / Degree Black belt or it's equivalent. A copy of all certification (All prior grades as well) must be supplied for examination.

3. Must have at least twenty (20) years in the Black Belt grade or it's equivalent.

4. Must hold at least one additional Godan, 5th Degree Black Belt grade or it's equivalent in another art.

5. Must hold at least two additional Black Belt grades in different arts, systems or ways then the above.

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2....Must have documented proof of 20 years or more in the martial arts. .. ( This means active study under high ranking instructor (s) )

3....Must be free from criminal record. ( * serious record )

4....Must have "earned through study" the rank of master ( 5th dan or equal ) in a valid martial art system with traceable lineage.

5....Must have also earned ( * not honorary or cross ranks !) the blackbelt rank in at least two ( 2 ) other valid martial arts. ( or equal !)

6....Must supply complete resume.

7....Must supply list of references to support claims.

8....Must agree to assist in background investigation of martial arts background.

9....Must agree to formally demonstrate / present new art before the board of examiners.

10....Must agree to be placed on two-year probationary period.

11....Must agree to accept the rank issued by the WHC board of directors.

12....Must agree to only advertise ranks and arts registered with the WHC, Inc. ( * note : WHC members are not permitted to break their arts into sun-branches and issue separate ranks in these sub-branches. )

13....Must agree to only advertise grandmaster status in the art one earned a master ranking in (* note : The only way one can create a new branch / version of a martial art is by first mastering an existing art, then, using additional techniques, ideas, concepts found in the other two additional arts where blackbelts were earned, the person can then create a modified version of the art first mastered. )

(If you would like to share your thoughts about this or any other martial art topic with the GMAF membership, please send an e-mail to mmcgee@gmaf.org or letter to: Mark McGee, Grace Martial Arts Fellowship, P.O. Box 262153, Tampa, Florida 33685)

You'll find every GMAF newsletter at http://www.gmaf.org/gmaf_newsletters.html . These newsletters are a gold mine of information about Christianity and the Martial Arts.

Many GMAF members have told us their favorite part of the monthly newsletter is Fellowship News. It's wonderful to see Christian martial artists praying for each other across the United States and around the world. No distance is too far for Christians. The instant we pray, God hears. We impact the lives of our brothers and sisters positively through our prayers. God answers prayer. It is pleasing to Him. Thank you for caring so much for each other!

JULY IN THE ISLANDS

Trinidad, West Indies

July 7 - 12 there will be a wonderful week of training in Trinidad, West Indies. This should be a great and beautiful week. Grab your passport and sun screen and come join us. For more information please contact
Darren Brito .

Address: #31 Queen street Aranguez, Trinidad West Indies

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On May 25th, Grandmaster Larry S.L.Martin and his Son Renchi Jeramy Eric Devlin Martin, held a Summer Martial Arts Seminar at their Cranston, Rhode Island. dojo which was outstanding everyone had a real good time. The topic was Kata Heian Shodan, kumite waza, and self-defense. ). The food was great. Sensei Auty
was at the grill all day. Honored Guest was Master Jody Gibson of the Kodokan Dojo in newport, Rhode Island. This Seminar was Grandmaster Martin's 1st; the same for Renchi Martin. Certificates were given out to the students that attended. We had a real good turn out! And a good time too! The next Seminar will be with Master Andy Wright of the World Martial Arts Alliance from the UK in on Aug. 13th. For info. please contact Sensei Auty at seminarinfo@yahoo.com. Grandmaster Martin & Renchi Martin are available for Seminars. For info, call ( 401 ) 861-3745 or ( 401 ) 499-8395.

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As promised, Martial Arts, The Christian Way (a must read for parents and educators seeking to shape young bodies, minds, and souls in the Lord Jesus Christ) is ... off the press. Details about this book and how to order can be found at www.agapy.com.

Thank you for your support in this tremendous project!

May God bless you and your martial arts schools.

Sincerely,

Wendy Williamson

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Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I am getting ready to put together an internet link directory of all Christian martial arts schools, associations, organizations, and other affiliations and was wondering if your web site (as a member of the Christian martial arts community) would be interested in a reciprocal link in that directory. One reason I'm doing this is because WE DESPERATELY NEED ONE and I have the time and skills to put one together. Another reason I'm doing this is because I was told by some search engine experts that the more UNITED we become as a martial arts community, the better ranking our websites will have on the internet, and the more people will be able to find us and what we stand for. Reciprocal links (where I link to you and you link to me) are best because they offer one of the strongest search criteria for most engines on the Internet. Moreover, if some of our sites (as a community) are ranked high on some search engines and others of our sites are ranked high on other search engines, then people still have way of finding any one of us through any search engine, which I think is ideal for everyone! In essence, we'd be feeding each other rather than just feeding ourselves. :)

Once I get things together, the links will be located at www.agapy.com/directory.html. If you want a reciprocal link, send me your information (name of site; site address; geographic location; and whether it is a school, association, homepage, or other affiliation) and I'll gladly put it up as soon as possible. The only thing I ask is that you link back to me somewhere in your site so that it is indeed "reciprocal". My site is www.agapy.com.

Also, just to let you know, the printer has informed us that Martial Arts, The Christian Way will indeed be ready by mid-July (hurray!!!!!!!!). Thank you so much to those of you who have pre-ordered.... it has helped me finance the project a wee bit.

Another note....a few of you have contacted me regarding the publication of your written materials. As you know, I formed my own Christian self-publishing company, Agapy Publishing; however, I also intend to operate as Christian book packager/consultant. Basically, book packagers do not invest in books and do not store/ship books, they put books together and produce them. They handle all of the publishing details from manuscript to market by providing packaged services that may include editing, proofreading, cover designing, typesetting, ISBN, LCCN, barcode, copyright, copy editing, printing, and some limited marketing. Thus, you can self publish, retain all the rights to your publication, and not have to worry too much about the details. I probably won't be operating until the fall because I'm having a baby in a month (hurray!), but I just wanted to give you the heads up in case you were interested in knowing more.

Take care and God bless you all. If you get a chance, please keep me, Francisco, and the soon to come into the world baby Leonardo (Leo for short) in your prayers and if you need any prayers from us, please let us know.

In Christ,
Wendy Williamson
Agapy Publishing

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The Shinsei Jujitsu/Shinsei Hapkido Manual is available as a download from: http://www.shinseijujitsu.com/shinseimanual. The manual is about 150 pages and is a supplement to the video. It may take an hour or more to download. If you encounter difficulties, contact Geoffry Sumter, webmaster at webmaster@shinseijujitsu.com

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Praise God for a wonderful evangelism conference this weekend! Lives were touched and transformed in a powerful way. We not only had several churches meeting together about evangelism, but also going out doing street evangelism. We prayed over people we met, in homes, on the street, in the mall, and at the market-place. There were several decisions for Christ, rededications, and many lives challenged to greater levels of evangelism.

Rebecca and I gave three Gospel karate presentations, and both Rebecca and Cynthia(our two oldest) were part of an Indonesian War Dance presentation which also attracted the crowds. I can now say that my girls know a "kata"(martial arts form) I don't know!

A homeless drunk man I ministered to on the street came to the meeting the following night and received Christ as Savior. We had stopped by with some clothes for him and drove him to the church. Pray for wisdom in follow up with these people. He was so excited about his new faith, and family, that he said he would be bringing other drunks.

Brazil stops every time their team is playing in the world soccer cup that is going on right now. A few of us brave ones have woken up at 3:30am to watch an important game that is being played in Korea.

It is strange to be wearing sweaters here in Brazil. Anápolis is much cooler than Juazeiro, and is entering their colder months of June and July.

Continue to pray with us concerning our financial needs. We thank God for His faithfulness and promise to provide for us. God bless you for your faithfulness.

Love,

Phil, Elizabeth, Rebecca, Cynthia, Rachel

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50 Students in Maryland Need an Instructor! We have an approximate 50 young people in our Church and as the Youth Pastor I think a karate class one or two times each week would be great. There is also an Elementary school beside our Church and I though maybe we can work with that school to get some of their kids enrolled. We have the space in our Church and need to get an INSTRUCTOR who might be interested.

Hershell McCubbin
NATIONAL WESLEYAN CHURCH
6324 RIGGS ROAD
HYATTSVILLE, MARYLAND 20783
Phone (301) 559-2626 (church office)
(301) 725-3239 (home)

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Hello, I'm looking for a good, Christian instructor of martial arts in the Pensacola, FL area. Please help me. Thank you for your time.

Do you have anything located in the DC metropolotian?

If you know Christian martial arts instructors in the Pensacola or Washington D.C. areas, please contact mmcgee@gmaf.org.

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Peace Officers for Christ Presents

"Rebuilding the Wall"

Police Conference

Friday, July 5 thru Sunday, July 7, 2002

39405 Murrieta Hot Springs Road - Murrieta, California 92563

Cost for the conference is $130 for singles and $260 for couples. Space is limited and POFCI is currently taking reservations. If you don't wish to pay the full fee at this time, we are accepting $50 deposits to hold a space for you.

Our Main Speaker will be Joe Dallas

Music will be provided by Steve Alegre . The 2002 POFCI Conference Theme will be "Rebuilding the Walls". Police work causes many of us to allow the walls of protection around our families to be torn down, leaving our family vulnerable to attacks. We will be exploring how to rebuild and strengthen the good walls that surround and protect our families and loved ones. With our rebuilt "walls" we will be able to restore our families and protect them from that which would hurt or destroy them.

Joe Dallas is the founder of Genesis Counseling, a non-profit religious corporation, which was founded for a threefold purpose: To offer professional Christian help to people struggling with sexual problems of all kinds, to equip churches and Christian leaders to address the sexual and relational problems that may arise in their own congregations, and to educate the Christian community regarding sexual issues.

Joe Dallas lectures extensively at churches, university campuses and training seminars, and has been a featured speaker at the Christian Association for Psychological Studies Convention, the Promise Keepers National Men's Conference and the Exodus International Conference.

For further information or to register please call the Peace Officers for Christ International Headquarters at (714) 426-7632

In Pursuit of Christ - Peace Officer Support Group
Meets on the Second Tuesday of the Month - 7PM
Grand Avenue Church (rear building)
2121 N. Grand Ave., Santa Ana, CA

Inland Police Officers Coalition

Saturday, September 7, 2002
6:00pm - 8:30pm

Location:
28355 E. Baseline Highland, CA

For further information visit the IPOC web site

Fellowship of Christian Police Officers - Canada
National Conference

August 23-25, 2002
Victoria, BC, Canada
e-mail FCPO - Canada for further information, or telephone 250-658-6335
To register online go to www.fcpocanada.com

September 12-23, 2002

Peace Officers for Christ is sponsoring a Law Enforcement Outreach to Nizhny Novgorod, Russia

If you believe that you are being led to participate on this short term missions trip to Russia,
please contact Chaplain Gary Malkus, at (760) 868-5102 or email POFCI Headquarters at info@pofci.org
Unsure whether a "mission trip" is right for you?
Read Gary's testimony of his own first mission trip, the Great Commission.

(I know you will join us in praying for each of these Christian martial artist, their famlies and ministries.)

Please let us know if you have moved, changed jobs, received a belt promotion, started studying a new martial art, started a Christian martial arts ministry, etc. We want to be sure your listing in the GMAF Internet Directory is all you want it to be.

We welcome these new members to Grace Martial Arts Fellowship. We have shared their interest in GMAF in their own words.

Sifu Kimbal Lane Cox
Lexington, North Carolina

Hand of Grace Christian Karate Ministries
located at Grace Alliance Church, 457 Burkhart Rd. Lexington, NC

Black Sash - Jitsuyokai Kempo (Luo Shi Quan Fa)
Nidan - Isshinryu Karate
Certified Group Fitness Instructor & Personal Trainer
Over 20 years of varied martial arts & fitness experience
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Mario A. Lorenzana

Teaches American Kenpo in Guatemala, Central America: Lorenzana's Kenpo Karate, 4th Degree Black Belt
www.wtkenpo.cjb.net

Representative for World Kenpo Federation in Guatemala

Deacon at "Ministerios Ebenezer"

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Sensei Richard Brehof Jr. has been training with Grandmaster Larry S.L.Martin for 12 years in the Art of Shojukempo. He has trained with Instructors like Master Fernando Restrepo, Master Jody Gibson, Master Christopher J. Dacey, and late Grandmaster William R. Gregory. Sensei Brehof Hopes to open his dojo in the Providence area teaching Shojukempo, Okinawan Style. Sensei Brehof was the Asst. Instructor at the Barton St. Community Center Karate Club for the Pawtucket P.A.L. Police Athletic League.

He is a member of the ISA International Sungja-do Association, International Tora-do ryu Karate Association, World Black Belt Bureau, and the Kajukenpo Pai lum Federation, Asst. Instructor for the R.I.Shotokan Karate Hombu Dojo Hq., Shojukempo Karate Studio in Central Falls, Rhode Island under Chief Instructor Master Fernando Restrepo 7th Degree Black Belt in Shojukempo.

The International Ryukyukai Karate Association will be awarding Mr. Brehof his Instructor Certification, from Director Soke Robert Handley 8th Degree Black Belt in Shotokan Karate-do & Okinawan Kempo.
1st Degree Black Belt ( shodan ) Shojukempo
1st Degree Black Belt ( shodan ) Okinawan Kempo
1st Degree Black Belt ( shodan ) American Kenpo
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Renchi Jeramy Eric Devlin Martin began his Martial Arts training at the young age of 2 years old under his father / Instructor Grandmaster Larry S.L.Martin, Master Fernando Restrepo, Master Jody Gibson, Master Christopher J. Dacey and the late Grandmaster William R. Gregory. in the Arts of Kenpo, Kempo, Pai lum Kung-fu, Aikido, Ju-jitsu, Shotokan Karate-do, and Okinawan Kobudo ryu. Renchi Jeramy Devlin Martin is the youngest ( yondan ) 4th Dan in the Country at the age of 15 years old. Curently he is the Asst. Instructor at the Nathan Bishop Middle School Shotokan Karate Club, R.I.Shotokan Providence Hombu Dojo Hq., R.I.Shotokan Dojo Cranston, St. Peter's Catholic School Shotokan Karate Club. co. founder of the Interscholastic Shotokan Karate-do Association of Rhode Island, founder of theWorld Youth Martial Arts Federation which is under construction, and will be going online in afew weeks. In 1996 he was featured
in the Rhode Island Bristol Phoenix news paper Sports Section ( the Karate Kid ). He attends the Providence Science Health & Tech. 9th Grade. When he finishes High School he wants to join the Army to teach Martial Arts, Combat Style. On Friday evenings Jeramy attends a Youth Group at the Providence Assembly of God where he is a member of the Church. His past time is Play Station, Music, Art, and most of all his Family. 4th Degree Black Belt ( yondan ) with Instructors Certification in Shotokan Karate-do,Okinawan Kempo ( with adult status ).

4th Degree Black Belt ( yondan ) Shojukempo
1st Degree Black Belt ( shodan ) Ju-jitsu
1st Degree Black Belt ( shodan ) Kobudo ryu
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Wendy Williamson

Wendy Williamson, Kalamazoo, MI ... www.agapy.com

Independent Martial Arts Instructor, Author, Publisher, International Educator

Church: Calvary Bible Church

2nd Degree Black Belt Shudo Kan Karate

My testimony is available on my web page in the section "About the Author"

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Yes I'm interested in fellowshiping with GMAF. I'm surprised (and really glad) that a lot of the members have a high rank in their martial arts. I pray that God make us the warrior of His.

God bless you all,
Eko
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I am interested in fellowshipping with you. What are the requirements?

Bill Fanska
Pastor
Eternal Fellowship
www.EternalFellowship.com

(Requirements for GMAF membership are being a Christian and martial artist at any level. GMAF membership is free!)

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My name is Albert Zacharias. I live in Seoul, Korea. I began my walk with the LORD 2 years ago. I finally heard HIM knocking and answered.

Rev 3:20 - Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with him and he with me.

I recently attended the 38th Mens' English speaking Tres Dias from 9 to 12 May 2002, in Seoul, Korea. I was blessed to sit with my brothers in Christ at the table of Paul, for whom to live is Christ and to die is gain.

I study TKD and HKD. I hold the ranks of 1 Dan / TKD and 6 Gup HKD. I have been studying martial arts for about 2 years. I am a TKD Assistant Instructor under Kim, Jae Soo, 8 Dan WTF. I also study sang chol bong (nunchuka) in conjunction with my HKD training.

http://hoshin.netfirms.com/

I live in Hannam Village with my beautiful wife of 7 years, Hwa Hee, and my joyful 4-year old son, Christopher. We attend the Hannam Village Chapel English language service.

May the LORD bless you and keep you.

Zack

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Shihan Jody Gibson

Sensei Gibson has over 35 years of Martial Arts training in Shotokan Karate-do. His first Instructor was Master Jonh Saviano of the Shotokan Dojo in Warren Rhode Island. His Second Instructor was Sensei Walter Renshaw, and his third Instructor was Maestro Giuseppi Guaraldi of the Kodokan Dojo in Newport, Rhode Island and the Kodokan Dojo in Bologna Italy JKA. When the Maestro isn't teaching at the Newport Kodokan Dojo, Shihan Gibson trains at Sensei McDermott's Dojo who are members of the Funakoshi Shotokan Karate Association. Shihan Gibson is the Technical Director for all 4 R.I.Shotokan Karate Dojo's, Providence Hombu Dojo HQ., Nathan Bishop Middle School Shotokan Karate Club Providence, R.I.Shotokan Karate Dojo Cranston St. Peter's Catholic School Shotokan Karate Club Warwick. Shihan Gibson is Shihan Larry S.L.Martin's Mentor. Shihan Martin, Shihan Dacey are students of Maestro Giuseppi Guaraldi of the JKA. All 4 Dojo's are members of the American JKA Karate Association and the JKA, Japan Karate Association. Shihan Gibson has been a great help to all who have seeked his Knowledge & help! Shihan Gibson holds the Rank of ( godan ) 5th Degree Black Belt in Shotokan Karate-do, ( yondan ) 4th Degree Black Belt in Shojukempo and a ( shodan ) 1st Black Belt in Judo. At the age of 77 he can still kick and demonstrate kihon, kata plus kumite.

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Sensei Kelly P. Casey

Ms. Casey started training with Master Larry S.L.Martin in the fall of 1993 in the Art of Kempojitsu, her neice was a student of Master Martin's too. Leeann & Kelly trained hard to be where they are now. Sensei Casey lives in North Carolina where she is the State Rep. for the Martial Art Women Against Domestic Violence. Their HQ. is in Providence, Rhode Island, headed by Sensei Mildred I. Auty ( sandan ) 3rd Degree Black Belt in Shojukempo. Sensei Casey is a member of the ISA International Sungja-do Association, International Tora-do Ryu Karate Association, and the International Ryukyukai Karate Association.

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Sensei James Holroyd

Mr. Holroyd started training with Master Larry S.L.Martin in 1993. His uncle, Shihan Michael Trott, is a student of Master Martin's who teaches his own Ryu called Goshin-ryu Karate-jitsu. If you were a
little person, you would think that Sensei Holroyd was a GIANT. The kids at all the Dojos run by Grandmaster Martin call Sensei Holroyd Superman. He was given the name from the late Grandmaster William R. Gregory founder of the Kajukenpo Pai lum system, Master Joseph Rebelo of the Ed Parker System & Kajukenpo Pai lum Family. Sensei Holroyd teaches the Shojukempo system in Cranston, Rhode Island with the rank of ( nidan ) 2nd Degree Black Belt in American Kenpo, Okinawan Kempo, and Jujitsu. Sensei Holroyd is a member of the ISA International Sungja-do Association, International Tora-do Ryu Karate Association and the International Ryukyukai Karate Association.

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Mitchell Sliwinski, 761 West Scott Street, Apt 201, in Fond du Lac, Wisconsin.

I have been a Christian for 20 years, and I am interested in getting back into the Martial Arts. I have a black belt in Tae Kwondo, and a Green Sash in Kung Fu; however, I would like begin studying Wing Chun and Jeet Kune Do. I have been unable to find a school in my town that teaches it. I am from Fond du Lac, Wisconsin. I have tried to find schools in Oshkosh, Appleton, and the Greenbay areas, but have been unsuccussful. I found your name off the internet site called, "google.com". I would appreciate it if you could let me know if you know someone who teaches the above arts. You can contact me through email. My email address is: bullsvan70@hotmail.com. My name is Mitchell Sliwinski...

Again, thank you for your help. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Mitchell Sliwinski

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My name is Jacob, I am 24 and a blue belt in Jiu-Jitsu but I appreciate all styles. I have been toying with the idea of starting a christian based martial arts club. There is nothing like that in my area. I would appreciate any suggestions and ideas. I would also like to receive a GMAF newsletter. Thank you and God Bless!
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What I teach is called Tiger System martial arts. It incorporates arnis/tae kwon do and kickboxing. I am 28 years of age and have been training in martial arts for the past 14 years. I've also been working in the security industry for the past 9 years.

I just started a Christian martial arts talk group at Yahoo Australia. It's with faith we walk Christians in martial arts. It's where we post Q's and see what people's opinions are. I go to a Baptist church.

THANK YOU
Wayne Chandler

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Rev. Philip Lewis

Missionary to Brazil ... 6th Dan, Founder of Tora Karano Shinsei Kenpo/ Yeshua Kenpo a Christian Martial Art style which blends Kenpo, Tang Soo Do, Arnis, Wing Chun & Ju Jitsu with symbolic Bible terminology and phrases for Self Defense and Kata. Creator of the Bible Kata, Book of Daniel Kata, Armor of God Kata, and
Shepherd's Kata.

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My name is Han Shi Robert L. Davis of the White Tiger Hop Chi Dao Martial Arts Assoc. I am very interrested in joining your fellowship.

Robert L. Davis Han shi White Tiger Martial arts

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My style is Taijiquan(mainly Beijing style). I have been practicing for almost 9 years now. I live in the northern part of middle Tennessee. As for my Church, I lead singing at Grace Christian Church in Hendersonville. My pastor once quoted Matthew when he said "My house shall be a house of prayer". I learned then, that we grow more in Christ when we pray to him, even when we don't have problems that need solving.

IHS
Lawrence Hill

I know you join me in welcoming all of these new members of Grace Martial Arts Fellowship. Please send them a note of welcome and remember all GMAF members in your prayers.

You are invited to read previous GMAF Newsletters.

If you would like to join Grace Martial Arts Fellowship ©, contact Mark McGee.

Grace Martial Arts Fellowship is a service of GraceLife Ministries©.