Break-Thru Newsletter
| Volume 1 Issue 33 | February 2008 |
| Dear Friends, | |
| Greetings! I hope the New Year is going well as we are already in the second month of 2008! | |
| The last few months of 2007 brought on different kinds of obligations at our home, with not only the Christmas and New Year Holidays, which Jake and I spent with our children and grandchildren. But prior to the holidays we had our house renovated and that alone consumed a lot of our time and made it hard to get a newsletter out before now. It's a relief that the work is done and we are happy with the results! | |
| Christmas was special this last year since we were able to spend it at home! I got to decorate the house and we had friends and family who live in the area down to celebrate. We had a wonderful time together remembering the real reason for Christmas and the precious gift of God's love, while we gave and received gifts ourselves. | |
| My New Year prayer for you and for us is that we will thirst after God and love Him with our whole heart, mind, soul and strength and love those around us. (Mark 12:30 & 31). I also pray that God will bless us and show us how much He cares for us and wants the best for us. May His presence be with each one of us as He leads us to do what pleases Him. May we also allow Jesus to do any spiritual renovations in our lives that will allow us to be all that He wants us to be. "Be very careful, then, how you live - not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be foolish, but understand what the Lord's will is." Ephesians 5:15-17 | |
| Highlights and Blessings | |
| Highlights and blessings happen in all our lives every year and here are some of the ones that I have experienced in 2007: | |
| In September Jake my husband drove our car to Puerto Vallarta and arrived on the 29th. I flew in and arrived on October 3rd.and stayed till the 22nd.. While in Puerto Vallarta together we helped out at the Casa Hogar Orphanage on a weekly base. I also lead worship and sang special music at the Christian Community Church a couple of times. On the 23rd of October I flew to Calgary to attend the Canadian Gospel Music Awards and the Canadian Christian Music Conference. I stayed at Kel and Lorinda Block's, friends who were gracious to open up their place to me while in Calgary. | |
| At the CCM Conference I went to the Songwriting Workshop and a few educational Workshops on Management and Booking. The whole event was great and I was encouraged that I went. I hadn't attended a music conference since 2001 so it was good for me to go. I met a number of other artists, musicians, songwriters, and a few older friends involved in the Christian music industry. During the CGMA I also got to meet Byron Spradlin the President of A.C.T. International (Artists In Christian Testimony), which is a mission organization out of Nashville, as well as the President of the GMA in the U.S.A. I was pleased that I could connect with these people. | |
| The Covenant Awards show the last night of the CGMA was filled with incredible talent; I was blessed to hear the talents of a number of gifted Canadian artists, and to see and hear what an impact they are making not only in Canada but some of them around the world. It was wonderful and what a great way to encourage one another! | |
| When I arrived home I was also encouraged to hear from a few people interested in having me share my music and ministry with them. It was a nice welcome home! In Dr. Blackaby's book "Experiencing God" he challenges us to watch and see what God is doing and join Him in that work. As I have made myself open to God and His ways I have found myself in many interesting places. I would never have thought I'd be singing to seniors or alziemers patients in a retirement home, or in Mexico! However, I believe these are great opportunities to show God's love. However, I want to be obedient to what God wants. Obedience is what God wants from each of us and I think sometimes He sends us to places that we wouldn't consider your normal ministry setting. He wants us to be real and to share with people how He has changed our lives as the opportunity comes up anywhere! | |
| One of the biggest highlights this year was when I arrived home on October 27th and found out that we were grandparents once again! It was a big surprise because Jason our second grandson was born three weeks early to our son Mike and daughter in-law Danielle. The other surprise was to hear that he was born at home in a breech position. It was a miracle from God and our prayers were answered. Jason was healthy and a 6 lb. baby boy! Praise God! | |
| Another highlight and piece of excitement this year was when both of my parents celebrated birthdays in their 80's! I thank the Lord for the years that God has given them and how active they still are! At the same time I take these years seriously and I pray that God will continue to give them many more years of health. I thank God for the example they have been in regards to their commitment to Jesus Christ and their love for Him. This in turn truly blesses me. Jake and I are looking forward to going to Manitoba to see our parents in March of 2008. | |
| In November 2007 I received an invitation to join A.C.T. International and I am still in the process of seeing what this mission organization is all about. I will attend an Orientation March 11-13th in Nashville. I am looking forward to this trip since I have never been to Nashville and I will also be able to get a better perspective as to what it will be like to be on staff with A.C.T. | |
| I was blessed with a new printer/fax/copier that I received as a gift and I also was able to purchase a Fender Acoustica Guitar Amp and a Portable 250 Fender Sound System for a great deal through e-Bay. | |
| Another special blessing that I have from God is my family members, the many friends I have and a prayer and ministry accountability team who stand with me. These people encourage me with their prayers, understanding and support. I appreciate and love each one of them. If I didn't have God to depend on and the support of my friends I'm not sure if I would continue to do what I feel so passionate about. | |
| Music Ministry Opportunities | |
| I had a number of different scheduled events that took place through out 2007 and also had the opportunity to sing at Calvary Community Church in New Westminster for their Christmas Eve Concert, with a number of their own very talented people, this was very special! Christmas is such awonderful time to share music that has a beautiful message about Christ's birth and to give hope to those who are seeking. | |
| In 2008 I have a few things scheduled and would ask for your prayers. | |
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| Prayer Requests | |
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| Current News | |
| I just got back from Puerto Vallarta and Jake is staying on for a couple more weeks. The weather has been cooler than we have experienced in the last 15 years that we have been going to there but as the days seemed to fly by the weather started to get warmer. We certainly still enjoyed the sun and the warmer climate that B.C. does not experience during this time of year. | |
| One of the Saturdays in January we were at the Casa Hogar Orphanage and I also sang a special music at two of the morning services at the Christian Community Church. While there I was asked to lead worship and sing special music for a 3 day Seminar. It went really well even though I didn't have much notice! We also went to visit another church plant and took a ministry tour with them. We handed out popsicles to the very poor kids that live right at the edge of the dump in very poor living conditions, visited a family that is being helped by the church through Compassion - Impact to build a home situation that is healthier. We also visited a school where they teach English to about 30 kids who are to poor to afford to go to school. It was another eye opening experience to what the poor go through in Puerto Vallarta. We hope to get involved in other mission projects when we go to Puerto Vallarta next year. As well I am preparing for up coming concerts and hoping to do some songwriting. | |
| Concert Booking and Schedule | |
| As the Lord leads you and if you are interested in booking special music or a concert, or you know of someone who may be interested, contact me by e-mail at booking@jeannettepetkau.com, or jeannette@jeannettepetkau.com. You may also call or message at 604-881-1316 | |
| Thanks for your support and interest in this ministry. | |
| May God bless you! In Christ, | |
| Jeannette Petkau Singer/songwriter | |
| Volume 1 Issue 32 | October 2007 |
| Fall is here and summer has seemed to slip away. I was so sorry to see summer go as I wish it would have hung around a little longer. However, as I start to write this letter I'm thankful for a beautiful sunny day and each day that is filled with wonder and surprise! | |
| My Journey: | |
| The last five months have been full of activity with family, new and old friends, traveling on several occasions, a family reunion, studying, singing, playing guitar, teaching voice lessons and preparing for upcoming concerts and events. As well as enjoying my grandson Tyler which is always special! It has been a good time and everyday I depend on God and desire His plans to take place in my life. Some days certainly don't go as planned, but when I am unsure I need to remember, that everything is in God's hands. | |
| In the last few years I've been learning a lot more about trust and dealing with my fears. Sometimes I wonder, what God is doing? I figured I learned that already but then I realize I have more growing to do! I know that God has called me into ministry but there definitely has been opposition as I have been pursuing the vision that He has placed in my heart. Things have been a struggle and yet I have not given up. The enemy is out to destroy and discourage but God is on my side. I will come through the storms of life and I know that there is "light at the end of this tunnel". I believe what God has said will be done. He has given me a promise that He will never leave me or forsake me, Hebrews 13:5. | |
| A.C.T. International: | |
| Recently I have been working at preparing a Prospective Ministry Plan for A.C.T. International. I have been looking at a number of different Mission Organizations in the last year or so that I could possibly work with. I believe that God has been moving me in a this kind of direction. I am really excited about A.C.T. International; they are a mission and ministry sending agency especially for artistic Christians and creative ministry projects. They serve artistic ministers and missionaries by ministerial direction, equipping and supporting those who are dedicated to evangelize the lost and build up the Body of Christ. They have a non-profit organizational structure, spiritual and financial accountability for Christian ministry projects. God has given me a vision that seems very large at the moment. Lord willing it will be accomplished through the power of His Spirit. If I am accepted to come on staff with A.C.T. intl., I will be able to form a department that would focus on the things I believe God is calling me to. I continue to seek God's guidance and will in all of this. I would ask for your prayers and for God's will to be done. | |
| Ministry and Music Conference: | |
| Lately I have also been spending time encouraging seniors through music and sharing with them. It's definitely been a different kind of venue for me but it has also been fulfilling. | |
| During the month of October I'll be spending some time in Puerto Vallarta with my husband Jake. During our stay we will be helping at the orphanage and doing a bean and rice distribution. I will then be going to the Gospel Music Association (GMA) Awards as well as the Contemporary Christian Music Conference (CCM Conference) in Calgary, on October 24-26, 2007. I haven't been to a music conference for a couple of years so I am looking forward to this opportunity. I'm hoping to take some songwriting workshops, learn more skills on how to be a better songwriter and to hear what is happening with the whole music ministry scene. It will also be good to meet with other fellow artists who I haven't seen for some time and make new connections. I am excited about attending and I hope it will be a great experience! | |
| Ministry Opportunities and Focus: | |
| I am looking forward to new music and ministry opportunities for November and December and will also start booking for February next year. I am excited about how God will use me. Another one of my specialties is to spend time with women during the week, encouraging and mentoring them to be all that they can be through Christ. Women need each other; they need to know that they are loved and accepted. God has been working in my heart and moving me more toward a focus in music, women and missions. So I hope to do more events and concerts that surround that focus. However I want to be open to wherever God would want to use me and have also been doing a variety of things throughout the year. Christmas and Valentine's are both great seasonal times to reach out and share the good news with others. I am looking forward to seeing how God will direct my steps and how he will use me for His glory. | |
| Prayer Requests: | |
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| Blessings in Christ, | |
| Jeannette Petkau singer/songwriter/recording artist | |
| " a passionate and encouraging ministry" | |
| Volume 1 Issue 31 | April 2007 |
| With this letter comes some exciting news that I want to share! But first of all I just wanted to say, that it has been interesting journey as my husband Jake and I have been seeking God and what he would have for the both of us. Daily we look to God for answers as we listen and see what He is doing around us. This is a good place to be, dependent on God and desiring to live and serve Him! He has a special purpose for us and even though we don't know all His plans we are willing to follow as He guides and leads us. | |
| Ministry Opportunities: | |
| Since my last letter to you in November 2006 my husband and I traveled to Mexico. We stayed in Puerto Vallarta for six weeks. We had a wonderful time not only relaxing but we also got involved at the Christian Community Church there. Once a month the church does a rice and bean distribution to the poor. They bring the packages to the schools were the parents of the children pick them up. We went to 3 different schools, the largest having 250 kids. We also dropped packages off at the Salvation Army and at the Maranatha Church which are partially supported by the Christian Community Church. Jake and I also visited the kids at the "Casa Hogar" Orphanage a couple of times with a wonderful couple from the church that have made this a regular ministry and have a real love for the kids. It was an experience to spend time with kids who are left there by parents, who just can't take care of them or choose not to. In some ways these kids are brought there with the possibility that the parents may come and pick them up sometime, but they don't know when. Many of these children don't see their parents for a long time and some possibly never again. It is so sad to see the kind of life these kids have to live and the conditions they have to live with. However, this orphanage is one of the best run orphanages in Puerto Vallarta. The wonderful thing is that they don't lack food or gifts. The Wednesday prior to Christmas Day we were able to be with these kids and we saw the gifts that people had sent and the joy on these kids faces and yet there was a loneliness that you could see in their eyes. The gifts were opened but there was no real attachment since most of the toys are shared. Some are snatched away and can be destroyed by the other kids. So they really don't learn to protect or care for their own belongings well. Mostly I see that they love to be with people who care about them and want to be with them. They need love just like you and me. What precious kids they are. For the five to six weeks that we attended the church it was a blessing to get involved with singing special music, leading worship or both. Jake helped with the sound, it was wonderful! | |
| On Christmas Day around noon there was a special distribution to 2,500 poor people in the outskirts of Puerto Vallarta as they gathered at the dump on top of the hill. For this particular distribution a number of churches and organizations were involved. A convoy of 28 cars, vans and SUV's went to the area to help. Eighteen of these vehicles were filled with toys for boys and girls, clothing and shoes for all ages, blankets, rice and beans, candy, and a hot roasted chicken with tortillas. The people were thrilled to receive the items as their hands reached out to grab everything that they were given. It was truly a blessing to be able to give these people some hope at Christmas time and to do this for God's glory. I will never forget this touching experience, it has changed my life. | |
| There were flu bugs going around at home in B.C. as well as in Puerto Vallarta, so when we got back home it caught up with us. Between the two of us we struggled with our health for a good month before we were back to normal. | |
| In the last few months we have been contemplating going on short-term missions and have been doing some research in regards to possibilities with different mission organizations. However, it doesn't look like any thing will transpire this year except for what we get involved with when we go back to Puerto Vallarta in the winter. We still want to be open to whatever God has for us and works out in our lives. Some of the things that have worked out have been music ministry opportunities. God opened up a door in Montreal and Ottawa and plans are to be there in the beginning of May as the Lord wills! God is good and He has worked it out for me to work with J.B. Ministries who is promoting the concerts and preparing for my time there. What a blessing that is! At this point I am preparing for these exciting opportunities. I'm actually even learning some French songs! It was a pastor in Montreal that encouraged me to do this when I was there in 2005. He mentioned it would be great if the next time I came I would have one or two songs to sing in French! It has been challenging but I have enjoyed every minute of learning the songs with a friends help! | |
| I am looking forward to being in Montreal and Ottawa, to seeing and meet many of you again! If you are living in the greater Vancouver area and you are interested in coming to hear me sing in Surrey I would love to see you too! I know some of you have mentioned your interest. My prayer is that God would touch lives and bring many into a relationship with Him. That it would be a blessing and done for His glory! | |
| Concert Schedule | |
| Go to Concert Schedule page... | |
| Educational Studies | |
| I am excited to tell you that I did well with my exam and dissertation and now have a certificate of Graduation and an Associate Degree in Christian Studies. I have started to study for a Bachelor Degree in Church Ministries and look forward to finishing that by the end of this year. I thank God for the scholarships; I don't know that I would have been able to do these studies otherwise. I believe that it was God's will and that He continues to prepare my heart for His greater purposes. | |
| I watched the movie "Facing the Giants" recently and the people in that movie finally recognized all they could be and what God could do when they put their faith in an Almighty God. I want to be and do the best that I can for God and not give up! To keep trusting God and believing for the impossible. | |
| Jesus looked at them and said "With man this is impossible, but not with God: all things are possible with God" - Mark 10:27 | |
| Prayer Requests: | |
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| CD Sale and Ministry Support | |
| If you are interested in hearing and learning my songs prior to a concert this would be a great time to pick up my CD's! For the month of April & May I have posted my Beyond Reason CD's for a sale price of $15.99 ($20 reg.) and you can also get my Break-Thru CD for a great price of $10.00. This sale will only be available on my website through Pay Pal services. I also have Accompaniment Tracks available for all my songs from the Beyond Reason CD. If you would like Accompaniment Tracks from the Break-Thru CD or you have any questions please e-mail me at jeannette@jeannettepetkau.com. | |
| I want to thank Daniel van Breevoort for updating my website and I thank him for stepping in as my webmaster in 2006. That has helped lift a whole lot of concerns that I had. I also want to thank my fans, friends, family, ministry and prayer teams for standing with me and supporting this-God's ministry. | |
| Ministry Bookings | |
| Are you interested in booking a music ministry for an outreach, church or women's event, conference or retreat? If so for more information contact: | |
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| Hope you have a Happy Easter filled with many blessings and thank you for all your prayers and support! | |
| In Christ, | |
| Jeannette Petkau - singer/songwriter | |
| " a passionate and encouraging ministry" | |
| Contact details at bottom... | |
| Volume 1 Issue 30 | November 2006 |
| Wow! It's already the beginning of winter and getting closer to Christmas! | |
| Get Away In Whistler B.C.: | |
| This last week I spent time with my husband in beautiful Whistler B.C.! We also had the opportunity to have our kids and grandson visit for a day and a night. We are not "fans" of snow but mid-week we had the first snowfall, it was wonderful! When the temperature is only around 0º and the snowflakes are coming down big and softly it is an amazing sight, and somehow it can also include some romantic moments! Especially when you get cozy in front of a fireplace - it's all good! However, this all seemed to come to an end quickly when we had to head back home. | |
| Ministry Opportunities: | |
| My most recent ministry opportunities have included directing a women's choir and singing at the Women's Fall Kick Off at my home church. As well, I was asked to sing and share my testimony at a local church. It so happened during that morning, I was asked to tape five songs and two interviews in the afternoon for the "Eternally Yours" telecast that airs on the Miracle Channel. This came as a last minute surprise but I sensed God's leading and I know it will be used for His glory! | |
| My husband and a few friends of mine from 2 different churches joined me at another one of "Nightshift Street Ministries" orientations this last month. It was exciting, not only for me but for Maryann Conner (President) to see the group that came out on the Friday and how they were encouraged and interested in getting involved. Maryanne said she believed that was the most people that had ever gathered on the street for Nightshift street church and fellowship. A few of us volunteers came back the following Tuesday as we prepared and served dinner. It was a cold night; we saw a fair amount of people who needed to be warmed up with hot soup, get some warm clothes and who came to be with friends. It was a joy once again to be there, to show God's love and to end the evening in a circle as we held each others hands and prayed with those who stayed for prayer. It is great to see how God is working in the lives of these people and how He is drawing them to Himself. | |
| It's interesting as I look at this opportunity, how I got involved, how I thought it would be great to use my gifts and talents and to serve by possibly doing a fundraiser concert. I also see how God has moved and used me to help in one of the committees and how he has given me a passion to share my heart and serve those who live on the street. I thank the Lord for this important ministry opportunity that my husband and I can both be apart of. | |
| Educational Studies: | |
| In the last few months I have continued my Associate Degree in Christian Studies. I just finished my exam and I am currently working on the dissertation/thesis. I will take a break till next year and then Lord willing will continue on and take my Bachelors of Church Ministries. I have also been working on and have just completed Kate Brazelton's "Pathway to Purpose" book series with a friend. It's been an interesting spiritual journey. It has drawn me closer to God and has confirmed my heart in many ways. I am also interested in going a step further with "Pathway to Purpose" and looking at taking the Facilitators Course which again, Lording willing will take me to Laguna Beach, Florida, for a few days in March 2007. I'm excited about both these educational endeavors and believe God is preparing me in new ways for exciting ministry! | |
| Music & Ministry: | |
| During the in-between times of studying and every day events I have been working on some songwriting, playing guitar and hoping to eventually get some new songs added to my repertoire! I am very passionate about music ministry and hope to do more singing, speaking and touring in the New Year. I welcome your calls and invitations | |
| Devotion to God: | |
| The Lord is good and I can't wait to see what He'll do next! My life is surrendered to Him and my desire is to live and serve Him in whatever He sets before me each day. More than anything I want to know Him! The best times are when I am lingering in His presence, as I bare my soul and deepest longings with Him. He knows my heart and He reminds me of His wonderful promises. | |
| My prayer life is filled not only with personal or ministry needs but also with the many requests from others. I find myself on my knees as my spirit has cried out to God, for He is our strength in weakness, a shelter in the storm, our rock, our fortress, our deliverer. He knows everything about our lives and all that we need and all that we have, He has a wonderful purpose and plan for each one of us! I thank God for who He is, all that He has done and will do! | |
| "Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise." Heb 10:35 & 36 | |
| Christmas Greeting: | |
| I'm sending an early Christmas greeting since I will not have the opportunity to write you in December! May God's blessings, His peace, love and joy be with you and your family at Christmas and in the New Year!! | |
| Get Involved: | |
How can you get involved with this ministry?
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| Ministry Bookings: | |
If you are interested in booking this ministry for an outreach, women's, single's or church event, conference or retreat contact by:
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| Volume 1 Issue 29 | June 2006 |
| Summer Time: | |
| Summer is a wonderful time of year especially that the days are longer... I actually think I get more work done! In the mornings and evenings I have been hearing the birds through the open windows. What an incredibly beautiful sound that is, and how it lifts your spirit! We can be so grateful for all that God has created! As the school year closes I would imagine that many of you will be taking a holiday with your family or just getting away from work on one of those sunny weekends. Wherever this summer takes you I hope you will be safe and remember Jesus loves and cares for you! | |
| Last Six Months and Highlight: | |
| In the last six months there have been a variety of things that have occupied my life besides spending time with my husband Jake, my family and friends. I have been organizing and updating files, playing guitar and taking lessons, directing a women's choir, taking in a choir workshop, singing and modeling at a women's fashion show at my home church, and went to a women's leadership pre-conference "Pathway to Purpose" training. The highlight of this spring however was celebrating the arrival of my first grandson Tyler Joel Petkau on May 3rd which has been so exciting! I usually miss him after not seeing him for 3 days. These little ones are incredible gifts from God, so precious, so tiny, such miracles! I think I'll write a song! | |
| Currently Studying: | |
| Currently I am studying for my Degree in Christian Studies. I absolutely love it! I so enjoy being in the presence of God and learning more about the Life of Christ and what it really means to be a child of God, enveloped by His Holy Spirit and power. A few years ago I was really interested in going to Bible School and wondered how it would ever happen. It looks like God made it possible and I also received a scholarship which was not hard to accept! I am doing the courses by correspondence which I prefer at this time. I should be done by the end of summer. I know these studies will benefit me and I will be able to use what I am learning in the places that God will take me. What inspiration for songwriting, speaking and ministry this will have. I praise the Lord! | |
| Ministry News: | |
| This last month just as things felt like they were getting organized and moving ahead with my music ministry again, I heard the unfortunate news that my booking assistant would not be able to continue because of health issues. This was sort of a blow to the system at first and sad news but I can thank God that He knows what is best and that He is in control of everything. I believe that God has even greater things in store! I am still very much interested in sharing my ministry in music and testimony and will see how God works things out. As I am on this journey of wondering what God is up to, I also know that I can trust Him. He is faithful to do what is best. In His still small voice He speaks to me and sometimes nudges me along, especially during times of struggle. The Holy Spirit is my comforter and He comes to encourage my heart to let me know not to give up but to stand firm in the vision and dream that He has given me and to take steps that are lead by God. | |
| Nightshift Street Ministries: | |
| On June 9th I had the opportunity to serve with Nightshift Street Ministries in Whalley, a community in Surrey B.C. that has a number of street people. What and incredible time of ministry that was! When MaryAnne Conner, the founder of Nightshift, came to my home church to share, I listened to her and was compelled by God's spirit and was interested to know more about what they were doing. As a Christian we are to share the love of God with others but that is sometimes hard to do when you think of people who are homeless and on the street. As humbling as it may be God has been working in me and has put compassion in my heart for such as these. It was a blessing to be apart of the evening and to show the love of Christ to these people who so desperately need to know the love of God. I personally got to talk to a few people, introduced myself and heard where they were coming from. One of the men I talked to is an alcoholic; he had a great job at one time and really misses his wife, who died four years ago. He has since accepted Christ but still struggles with this horrible disease. May he find victory in Jesus! There was also a boyfriend and girlfriend that I spoke to, they both looked very unhappy and I could tell in their eyes and in their actions that they did not have peace and both needed Jesus. In fact the girl couldn't even look at me. How I love them with the Love of God! The closing prayer at the end of the evening was an incredible blessing as we formed a circle and held hands. It was a privilege to pray silently for both the men on either side of me, and then as we sang Amazing Grace together it felt like the heavens opened up and the Spirit of God came upon us! Iknow God wanted me there and it looks like I will be going back to serve again! Mary Anne has mentioned an interest in having me do worship and music, there may also be other ways that I could get involved with as the Lord leads. I am interested in doing a Concert Fundraiser for this ministry as well, as I have been praying about what I can do. I'm excited to see what God will do and how He will use me. | |
| Called To Ministry: | |
| The Lord has called me to ministry and I believe it's not only in music but to share what He is putting on my heart as I am lead by His spirit for a time such as this and for those who are searching for more than they know and believe that they can have. God is working in my heart and bringing more depth and purpose to what I believe he is calling me too. I really think that God wants me to do whatever it is that He puts in my path on a daily basis. I lay my ministry down daily and I look to Him to lead the way! | |
| Prayer: | |
| During the week I spend time with women who need encouragement and prayer, probably as much as I do. Prayer has also been a great ministry that the Lord has put on my heart. I pray that the Lord would open up the doors in the places that He wants me, so that people's lives can be touched by His Spirit. If you have any prayer requests I would also like to pray for you. Send your requests to jeannette@jeannettepetkau.com | |
| Thanks: | |
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I want to share my appreciation and thanks to all of my fans, friends, ministry and prayer teams for their support and encouragement. Especially when I needed it and God usually knew when that was!!
Look forward to hearing from you and may the Lord bless you! Working Together for Christ Jeannette Petkau singer/songwriter "True friendship does not measure another with criticism, because the worth of a soul is not in the eye. It's in the heart." Jaye Lewis 1 John 4:10-13 "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another. No man hath seen God at any time. If we love one another, God dwelleth in us, and His love is perfected in us. Hereby know we that we dwell in Him, and He in us, because He hath given us of His Spirit." | |
| Volume 1 Issue 28 | January 2006 |
| Greetings Friends and a Blessed New Year! | |
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A New Year has begun and most of us are excited about that. There's a hope that things will be better! It's a fresh start and many New Years' resolutions are made. I was reading from Chuck Swindoll's "Five Meaningful Minutes a Day" and it said that with God, there isn't a new or old year. He is "the same" regardless of how things are. "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever" - Hebrews 13:8. We can have confidence that God is always consistent and always there for us.
I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and that Jesus was your focus! My husband Jake and I had the opportunity to spend it in Denver, Colorado, at a family reunion with our son Mike and his wife Danielle. We had a wonderful time and the highlight was visiting "Focus on the Family" in Colorado Springs, Colorado! Since my husband Jake's retirement, we have been spending time together traveling and drawing closer to Christ and to each other. It's been wonderful! I know that God is consistently at work in us, changing and shaping us for His glory. He has a perfect plan for our lives. Since my last newsletter and in the last six months, I have been earnestly seeking God and what His plans are for me and my music ministry. It's been like a sabbatical. I have had some wonderful times with the Lord, as He has been speaking to me through His written Word, he has revealed Himself to me while praying, and through the Holy Spirit's Promptings, Providential Circumstances and through godly people. I can be confident in the realization that God has created me uniquely and for a fulfilling purpose. The "Dream Giver" video series, by Bruce Wilkinson, is beneficial in confirming that. This last year, God opened up a number of opportunities for me, to serve in my church as well as in the community, and in another country. A women's worship choir and team has developed at my home church, which I've been leading and directing. We have sung at the women's fashion show, retreat and conference, as well as for a Pastor's farewell. I have done a few solo concerts at fundraisers in the local area, for a women's conference and at a church in Mexico. We saw how God touched many hearts and how a few people gave their lives to Christ! To God be the glory! In the last while, I have been updating addresses and e-mails, so some of you who are receiving this newsletter may not have heard from me for some time and some may be hearing from me for the first time! You are important to me and I enjoy keeping in touch! As I have laid my ministry before the Lord and waited on Him to show me His thoughts and ways, I received an interesting call from a fine Christian woman, who said that God had put it on her heart to help me. As I have gotten to know her and her heart, I have seen that she has a gift of communication and so I have asked Sherry to be my Booking Assistant. Plans are to start with local bookings for the spring. I also have a heart to go back to Quebec, so Lord willing, we will begin to book that tour for the fall. As well, there's a Television Station in Alberta that has shown an interest in having me as one of their special guests, so that may be in the plans as well. God has also planted a desire in my heart to go to the Philippines. This has come about through a number of different people and events, so that may take place next year, as the Lord leads! There's a verse that say's, "In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps." Proverbs 16:9. This verse means more to me now than it ever has before, because God has reminded me that He is in control and that "For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts"- Isaiah 55:8. God sometimes brings us ‘tough stuff" in our lives, so that we will seek Him more than anything else and be more like Christ. I ask that you to pray for me and this ministry. It will be a tough going, as we begin this journey of booking and looking at planning future opportunities and projects. Pray for wisdom and clarity of vision, like I've never before experienced. That there would be dignity and honor and a sure sense of purpose that can only come from our Lord Jesus Christ. That there would be an abundance of work for service in the Kingdom and that there would be peace in my life that comes from knowing my instructions come straight from the Lord. This has also been shared with me as a blessing from Christian friends. So I look to the Lord with anticipation! I would love to hear from Pastor's, Music Pastor's and leaders, as you plan your yearly events and outreaches. I would also welcome any encouragement or prayer requests. For more information about this ministry, music or scheduling, please check out my website at http://jeannettepetkau.com May the Lord bless you and may you have a Happy New Year! In Christ, Jeannette Petkau | |
| Volume 1 Issue 27 | July 2005 |
| Dear Friends | |
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I have put off writing this newsletter for too long. I have been in an interesting season of my life and it has been hard to write what has been happening.
God is taking me through some tough stuff and I believe through all of this that I will be a better person and more like Christ. I have not only learned to trust God more deeply so now sing my songs with even more conviction!...but I've been reminded during this time that I need to wait on Him and to hear His still small voice. "My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me"-John 10:27. For the most part God does not speak to us in a boisterous way but softly. He wants us to seek Him with all our hearts, souls and minds (Matt:22:37)... and to be filled with His Holy Spirit. I have always known as a Christian that I can't do anything without Christ and have depended on Him with my life and ministry. However I'm just not sure what God wants to do at this point but I am looking to what He will do next with the purpose that He has for me and my husband Jake. The Lord says .."For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts"- Isaiah 55:8. It's been a hard road to travel on as it is so easy to try to take the wheel and steer it the way I would like at times. Through all of this I have also been sensitive to the Holy Spirit and His direction, I have felt certain nudges and I truly want to be obedient. As I have laid my ministry before the Lord He has continued to use me to share the love of Christ with others as I have met with people personally, encouraging them and praying for them. I have also had other music and ministry opportunities come up without having to promote myself which has been a blessing since it can be taxing at times, and sometimes discouraging to call and see where the doors are opening. Just recently I was in the state of Chihuahua, Mexico with my husband Jake and we had the opportunity to minister with one of the churches in a Mexican town. It was a neat experience. I also lead worship and did a concert in one of the more contemporary churches outside the city of Cuauhtemoc in a Mennonite community. It was a blessing to see how the Holy Spirit was touching lives there. One young gal gave her life to Christ and 2 other adults rededicated their lives. It was wonderful to see, to God be the glory! I would suspect that some of the challenges that I have been facing have come about because my husband Jake is retiring at the end of July and so our life is changing. We both want to do and be in the will of God as we have been praying for God to lead us. Jake has had a heart for missions and so we believe that God will somehow take both our gifts and talents and use them to reach many for Him and for His glory. In the next few months I will be busy singing at a number of different venues including a wedding in Mexico, and preparing to lead a choir for a Women's Conference:
I would encourage pastors and church leaders who are reading this to also be open to the Holy Spirit's leading in regards to having me minister at one of their church services or events. Please keep my husband Jake and myself and this ministry in your prayers. We appreciate your support! Blessings, Jeannette Petkau | |
| Volume 1 Issue 26 | November 2004 |
| Dear Friends | |
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I hope the transition from the summer to fall hasn't been too severe for you. The fall season in Quebec was an incredible sight with all the beautiful colors of the fall that you can imagine. I was just mesmerized! The chills of winter aren't to far away, however I am looking forward to the Christmas season!
The last six months have been busy with singing and traveling between British Columbia, Quebec and Manitoba. As I mentioned in the spring my husband Jake and I were in Quebec from June - November and it has been the most wonderful experience. One I will never forget! God is beginning a new work in that province; many hearts are open to the truth of the gospel, yet there's lots more work to be done. But the most exciting part is when you hear of lives changing and how the Spirit of God is touching them! I want to thank the Christian community of Quebec for warmly welcoming me to minister to their churches and communities. It has been a joy and blessing. The invitation from many pastors and leaders to come back next year sounds great and I am looking forward to that, Lord willing. I love Quebec and it has been so exciting to be apart of what is happening and to see God at work! I believe that Our Heavenly Father wants to do a great work throughout our Nation and Internationally. We must be ready to fight the fight and share the gospel with others. As believers we need a spiritual awakening to see the need, then we will also see the harvest of souls. "For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and self-discipline" 2 Timothy 1:7. May we walk close with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ who loves us and who has a great purpose for each one of us. "For me, to live is Christ and to die is gain" Phil 1:21 .For me this means that being with Christ is what I look forward to and that's why I want to live for Him here on this earth. May the Lord continue to direct our paths as we look to Him for guidance and direction. Please pray for this ministry. In Christ, Jeannette Petkau | |
Break-Thru Productions
| Jeannette Petkau | |
| Email: | jeannette@jeannettepetkau.com |
| Web Site: | http://www.jeannettepetkau.com |
| Booking Management | |
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| Phone: | (604) 881-1316 |
| Email: | booking@jeannettepetkau.com |
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