she said: Above everything else, I believe that honesty is the secret to every happy relationship. I was never the honest type until I found myself always at the same point--all alone, because neither of us had the courage to "break the ice" and take the first step. Besides, who made up the "Great Commandment" that the man has to always take the first step? It's great and I'm sure we girls would love for it to work like that, but it just doesn't always work. From the times that I've taken the first step (and let me make it clear that it was only twice!), things went great!
       Not only in making the first step, but during your relationships, honesty is what keeps it going--to be humble enough to share your feelings. We all have them and there's n othing wrong with them! It just takes some guts and the cracking of our dear old bottles to speak up, ha!
       One other key to keep a relationship and a girl happy is paper power. Let me tell you, it's a BIG deal for a girl to get a note. It doesn't have to be a big thing--just a couple of words that make her feel that she is not forgotten.
       --Sharon Starlight (17), Brazil

notices

Announcing: The Wine Press
--A new monthly magazine for live-out and former Family members

USA
       (From the Los Angeles LAMB Home:) Over the past couple of years we have been sending mailings to former Family members who have shown an interest in staying in touch with us. We received a number of responses to these mailings, and found that a large percentage of former Family members would like to keep up with some of the New Wine, and what is happening in the Family. When counseling and praying about how to meet this need, the Lord encouraged us to "roll the gold" with a brand-new variety magazine espe cially designed for our live-out and former Family members. After receiving approval from WS to use excerpts from CM materials in this magazine, and their help and counsel with the project, we've now started to produce!
       The Wine Press will be a monthly publication, and will include excerpts from new Letters, news from The Family around the world, articles from the Zine and Grapevine, Power and Protection testimonies, and stories from Heaven's Library. We will be sending The Wine Press to forme r members who are hungry and desirous of more Word and who send a monthly donation to cover costs. We'll also be including "Support-A-Missionary" appeals from the Grapevine, and will forward any designated gifts we receive to help Family missionaries around the world.
       If you know of any former members or live-out Family members (or close friends whom you'd like to feed with more Word who may not be officially "live-outs") who might appreciate receiving The Wine Press, please send us the follow ing information:

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Bible Name (if former members):
Legal Name:
Address:
Phone number (if available):
Short summary of background and present attitude:
Your name and location (in case we need to get in touch with you for follow-up or questions):

You can send the above information to:

The Family
P.O. Box 5784
Orange, CA 92863

E-mail: family@thefamily.org

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Meditation Moments
       (Tim Heart , Swiss Service Home:) Grandma's Meditation Moments available!--130 issues proofread, corrected, indexed and laid out in a uniform format! The files are in RTF (Rich Text Format, convertible to other Windows formats). References for Scriptures have been added, poems and songs are arranged in poetic form, spelling and other errors corrected. I am happy to share this treasure with anybody who sends (the equivalent of) $3 for the cost of the disk and postage. Send your orders to:

Die Familie (At tn: Tim), Postfach 153, 8010 Zürich, Switzerland. E-mail: diefamilie@bluewin.ch.

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Special Christmas message for your Christian friends
       (From WS:) With this mailing you should receive a new Mountain Streams, "Christmas Angels," which was taken from "Dad's Christmas Message for 1997" (ML #3150, GN 755.) One of our WS editors felt that parts of Dad's message might be very good for other Christians if presented in Mountain Streams format, but wasn't sure if or how to proceed, since that would mean adapting a message clearly directed to the Family and received in prophecy, which would be a first. After counseling with Mama on it, he took his question to the Lord, and received the following confirmation:
       (Jesus speaking:) I have placed this burden in your heart to adapt this message for My sheep who are outside the folds of David, and I will lead you in this. I have many other sheep who need to hear this message, including some who are of the folds of David but who are not yet in the folds of David. They will hear My voice through David and recognize it as the voice of their True Shepherd. They shall be added to the folds of David, and they shall be strengthened, they shall be fed, they shall be nurtured, and in time they shall bear more lambs for My Kingdom. (End of prophecy.)
       He asked the Lord to confirm the word changes he or others felt would be good to make, and the Lord led step by step, PTL! We pray this new Mountain Str eams will be a blessing to your Christian friends and contacts this Christmas, and in Christmases to come!

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mama's mailbox

Dear Mama,
       God bless you all who are fighting with me for my health. I'm so thankful for all the time you took for me in prayer and prophecy. The Lord has sent His healing touch over me, and I'm 500% better, though still a little weak.
       Five years ago we met Jane, the head nurse of a children's hospital in our city. She received Jesus, and we soon started a ministry in her hospital and continued to follow up on her. When we discovered I had cervical cancer, Jane was the key person who helped us get the four very expensive tests I needed done right away (instead of waiting in line for one or two months) and for free!
       In spite of our being off the Home schedule for the last five months, the Lord has blessed us with abundant finances. My sweet husband was always by my side. God bless him and all my loved ones wh o made it possible: Johannes, Abi, Brook and Clay, Thiago and Priscilla. There are so many miracles which were the fruit of your prayers. I can hardly put it into words, I'm so thankful.
       --Glory (of Jeremias), Brazil

Dearest Mama,
       I can personally testify that "Coming to India!" completely changed my life! I came to India as a traveler when I was 20 years old, found the Lord and joined the Family. I married an Indian national who is a wonderful man, and we have had eight beautiful childre n together--all born here in India! We've spent the last 15 years together here as missionaries, and I can honestly say they've been happy, fulfilled and very challenging years. I hope to stay many more!
       The Indian people are beautiful, intelligent, sensitive, spiritual and super hungry for the Words of Jesus and David! The Lord has blessed the work with many precious friends and sold-out national disciples. We still have new disciples joining--intelligent young people from very good backgroun ds; they speak excellent English and are sold out! I know that our young people can be very challenged serving the Lord here, as I personally have been for the past 17 years!
       --A. (adult woman), India

Dear Mama and Peter,
       About a year before receiving "Go for the Gold," we wrote you about the very legitimate reasons why we felt we were unable to have another baby (due to the complications during several births and the difficulty of having a large family in this country).
       After reading " Go for the Gold," we decided to trust the Lord. I'm now in my 7th month of an excellent pregnancy, despite initial bleeding which the doctors were positive was a miscarriage. The Lord allowed that because at the time I wasn't completely yielded and had reservations about it.--But not any more! We're both thrilled and think it's an absolute honor that He would trust us with another disciple. The Lord is blessing us and our Home in every way possible. It's mindblowing!
       --a married couple, Asia

backtracking
       In Grapevine #30, page three, on the "Goal Reached" attack day stats chart, NACRO and ASCRO were mislabeled. The correct listing should be NACRO 111%, ASCRO 90%. Our apologies, NACRO!

movie ratings

Movies Rated for Junior Teens and Up

COUCH IN NEW YORK, A (1997)
William Hurt, Juliette Binoche
       Romantic comedy about a New York psychiatrist and a free-spirited Parisian who swap apartments for several months. Found to be slow-moving by some, but enjoyable by others.

E VERYONE SAYS "I LOVE YOU" (1996)
Woody Allen, Goldie Hawn, Julia Roberts, Drew Barrymore
       Musical comedy about the adventures in love of an upper-class Manhattan family. Done as an imaginative spoof on musicals, with wacky dancing and humor. Point of interest: All the actors except Drew Barrymore do their own singing.

SHADOW CONSPIRACY (1997)
Charlie Sheen, Linda Hamilton
       Thriller about a top political advisor to the president who discovers a conspiracy within the US government. Action e ntertainment only.

SWING KIDS (1993)
Robert Sean Leonard, Barbara Hershey
       Drama about teenagers in Nazi Germany who show their rebellion against Hitler by embracing American swing music. Good discussion points on friendship, betrayal, surviving under and resisting an oppressive regime.

Movies Rated for JETTs and Up

SEVEN YEARS IN TIBET (1997)
Brad Pitt, David Thewlis
       Drama based on the true story of an Austrian mountaineer who set out to conquer the Himalayas' Nanga Parbat peak in 1939, and eventually ended up in the ancient Tibetan city of Lhasa. Some scenes may need explaining for young audiences.

Movies Rated for YCs and Up

WINNIE THE POOH'S GRAND ADVENTURE (IN SEARCH OF CHRISTOPHER ROBIN)
Animated
       New adventures of the famous bear and his friends. Good lessons on overcoming fears. Portions would be suitable for all ages, but please preview as some parts may be unpleasant for the very young.

Non-Recommended Movies

KISS THE GIRLS (Morgan Freeman, Ashley Judd; 1997)

what's up?

Building Collapses
India
       (From Jenny, 19:) We'd like to take you "live" to the scene of a tragic event here in Bombay. A tall office building has suddenly collapsed during prime office hours.
       At the scene is Sanjay: "An eight story building has just collapsed due to poor maintenance. Twenty people have been killed and many are injured. Rescue workers are on the job trying to recover the more than 150 trapped victims. The amazing thing here is that of all the off ices that have been demolished, one office is still undamaged. Why? We don't know. Miss Sunita has some details as to why this might have happened."
       Miss Sunita: "The company on this floor has been quite helpful to the Family in the past, and recently purchased 50 videos from them. Their whole office was completely spared! This area is also one of the Family's main outreach areas, and some teams had planned to come to this side of town today. But somehow the Lord arranged things so that on thi s fateful day they went elsewhere."
       This tragedy has caused a lot of money-making Bombayites to stop and think about the real meaning of life and how money isn't everything. Many have been very shaken by this, and have been open to hearing the Family's message.

The ripple
Japan
       (From Josh and the New Horizons Home:) In the Summit `95 prophecies for Japan, there was a vision of Japan shaking, which caused ripples in the surrounding ocean that splashed up onto the neighboring countries. Th e impression was that it had something to do with the Kobe earthquake and financial blessings.
       We have a wedding ministry which has grown out of a follow-up appointment we had as a result of the earthquake relief work in Kobe. This ministry has become a financial blessing, not only to us but to nearly a dozen brethren in Homes all over the country. As a result, our Home has been able to regularly give to our neighboring mission fields of China, Russia and Vietnam.
       Several months ago, a world -class hotel opened downtown, and they wanted to have a real chapel, which they hoped would become like a community center. Our wedding agent friend asked if we wanted to run it, which meant one or two of us coming almost daily for a few hours. We took it to the Lord, and He encouraged us to go for it. Any day, you can go by and meet one of us "pastors" there, or pick up a variety of Family literature on display at the door. Visitors often take a copy of every piece we have available, with a not iceably different reaction than street distribution. (By the way, we still hit the streets, too!)
       We have weekly Wednesday night Bible studies, Sunday morning services, and we give premarital counseling to almost all the soon-to-be-married couples, many of which have resulted in deep witnesses and souls saved. Last month we had our first Chapel Concert, with help from the Japan Family Band in Tokyo.
       So, getting back to the main theme of the story: All of this--financial support (to the tune of tens of thousands of dollars) for many Homes across the country, witnessing opportunities, music, and more yet to come, DV, all from a contact made from a follow-up visit in the wake of the Kobe earthquake.

A hug and a cup of water
Taiwan
       (From Abe and Mercy:) Recently we met a man who was interested in our children's performances, so we invited him to our house. As he walked in the door, the children ran up to him and hugged him. Then Emanuel (4), poured him a cup of water. He was obvi ously touched by the concern shown from such a young child. Elena (3), came up and quickly poured him a cup of water as well, wanting to do her part to take care of the visitor. One of the older kids wanted to stop her, since the visitor already had some water, but her mommy said, "That's alright, let her bring water for the guest."
       This dear man was so moved by these little deeds of kindness that he told his wife and his boss about his experience at our house and about our work. The boss was so touched that he pulled out $200 and gave it to us. In the following weeks, our visitor arranged five performances for us at schools and old folks' homes. At each performance, he told the audience about the hugs and the kindness he received from the children in our Home. He told about the little girl who wanted to bring him a cup of water, and how her mommy let her even though he already had water, in order not to discourage her. It was such a vivid illustration for us of what Dad predicted 23 years ago: "I am convinced that our children and families are going to be some of our greatest witnesses (ML # 315:3)."

Denounce God?
England
       (From Claire Faithful:) While out witnessing, a scientist told me that he did not believe in God, and that I should denounce Him. I was so taken aback that I just couldn't help myself. As loud as I could, I said, "I'm sorry, but I could never denounce God or Jesus! You see, they are my best Friends!" With that, he broke into a big smile and kissed m y hand! He told me he was glad to see I had such conviction in what I believed. He then gave me all the money he had in his pocket. Praise God for being able to stand up for the truth!

Back in touch
Nepal
       (From Jewel:) For everyone who was in Nepal before, you'll be happy to know that we're in touch with all former members and catacombers. Most are now married with small businesses; all are favorable, and we're able to see them from time to time.

Keeping broken hearts
Japan
       (From Tim othy IVM, HCS:) Although we witness through the tools that we produce for the Family, the Lord has been emphasizing that we need the personal witnessing experience as well to keep the vision and broken hearts for the lost, especially since we've been so into production the past year. We had two devotions with the entire Home to kick off this new direction, and we set up a volunteer committee to organize it.
       So far, our JETTs have been going out witnessing twice a week, and half of them are abo ut to go on a road trip. Each family group has been taking time on Family day to pass out tracts, poster, clown, etc. We're also trying to free a couple of people from the video department to do outreach in town during the Christmas season.

Pakistan Day
Pakistan
       (From Annie Newheart and Janet Bush:) Pakistan's Golden Jubilee was not only a big day for the Pakistani people, but for our singing team, which was booked out with five programs in three days! We had to audition for the biggest sh ow, to see whether we were "good" enough to perform. Thank God, we passed, and were soon on stage singing away, "Dil Dil Pakistan"--a favorite amongst the Pakistanis! It was a hit! Especially being that foreigners were performing it!
       The next day on outreach we met a man who asked if we had attended the show the previous night where some "white people performed Pakistan's favorite song!" He then proceeded to tell me that this was very good for Pakistan's interaction with Western countries, ha! Then we found out that our bright smiling (though nervous) faces had landed in the newspaper!

Getting comfortable
Japan
       (From Teri, HCS:) The teens/YAs/SGAs have begun having monthly inspirations, singing loving Jesus songs together, which has helped us become more comfortable with talking to the Lord and communing with Him while in each other's presence. To take things a step further, we dedicated one devotions per week to hear from the Lord in prophecy, for those who want to grow and le arn in this area. We started out by reading from the To Jesus - With Love and From Jesus - With Love booklets. Then we heard from the Lord together, and He spoke through many! God bless everyone for having the faith.

babymania
--By Jaz

More Comments on Weaning
       (From Joan SGA [of Stephen], mother of five, Hungary:) I'd like to respond to the column about nursing/weaning. I wholeheartedly agree with dear Mercy (see Grapevine #24) on the points she shared about how beautiful nursing is and what a special time it can be for mommy and baby, both getting to know each other better and having sweet cuddle time, as well as a time to just stop and have a bit of prayer/praise time in the middle of a busy day.
       I wanted to add that the deciding factor with me as to when I should wean my babies has usually been because I was PG again and my body couldn't handle feeding all three of us! So after a month or two of pregnancy, I would wean baby and get him or her on to more solids, as well as a bottle. (On average, I have gotten pregnant when baby was about 9 or 10 months old.) A lot of sisters I have known don't get their periods while nursing, however with me, as well as quite a few other YA/SGA mothers I know, it hasn't exactly worked that way! (Ours often start when baby is three or four months old!)
       In any case, I can say this: It is very important to enjoy that nursing and bonding time, as it only comes once in a lifetime for you and each little baby. So don't end it prematu rely!
       One point to consider as well is that just because baby gets weaned doesn't mean that sweet relationship stops. You can still hold and cuddle baby when he or she is sucking the bottle! Granted, it's not as intimate, but when you do have to wean them for some reason (such as getting pregnant, losing your milk unexpectedly, Mommy having to go on a trip, or baby just losing interest in nursing), feeding time can still be a sweet and loving time for mommy and baby. I love you all!

I'm won dering ...

       Q: I am a little confused as to the role of the personnel teamworker in a small, frontline witnessing Home. Is he considered the spiritual overseer of the Home? What about the other teamworkers?--Anonymous
       A: (From WS:) No, the personnel teamworker is not the "spiritual overseer" of the Home, nor is he or she above the other teamworkers--all are supposed to work together as a team. Being the personnel teamworker simply means that he or she is supposed to tune into the shepherdin g of the Home's members (among whatever other duties he/she may have), whereas the other teamworkers major on whatever their portfolios are. All teamwork members are responsible for the shepherding and spiritual oversight of the home.
       The main reason for the separation of portfolios is to ensure that at least someone is responsible for supervising each of those important aspects of a Home.

       Q: We read that the Zine is now on the WEB site for anyone to get into; also, there is no CM or DFO l abel on it. Would it be okay for our teens who are not Family members to read the printed version when we receive it?--Eman, Claire, Johannes and Milcah, France
       A: (From WS:) Only parts of the Zine are included on the WEB site for the GP. The classification on the printed Zine is CM/FM. However, it seems it would be okay if the Home's teamwork feels it's appropriate to let ex-member teens read the printed Zine while they are visiting your Home. But copies should not be given to non-Family memb ers outside your Home.

Love Lines
--available to those age 21 and over

       A number of you have suggested that the Grapevine provide a service whereby singles who are looking for a mate or companion can get in contact with other like-minded singles. In the past, there have been "Mate Wanted" ads which partially served this purpose; however, many of you have requested a method which would provide more personal privacy.--This is precisely what we hope to provide through Love Lines. After recei ving the Lord's blessing in prophecy and counseling together, here is the general idea:
       Robert is a single man who is sincerely searching for a sweet woman to team up with, so he decides to place an ad in the Love Lines. He writes up a brief description of himself (trying not to go over 100 words), which includes his vital statistics [see list below], talents, likes and dislikes, what he's looking for in a companion, etc. (your name is optional if you really want to be anonymous--but probably most mate-seekers would want to know it!). He includes his e-mail and/or postal address, and sends his Love Line ad off to the Grapevine e-mail box.
       Meanwhile, the Grapevine editors are collecting other similar ads from loving singles around the world. They compile two Love Lines listings: one for the ladies and one for the gents. Once a sufficient amount of entries have come in (probably within a month or two), the Grapevine will announce that the first Love Lines bulletin is complete! All th ose who have submitted entries to Love Lines will automatically be sent a copy (gents will receive the listing of available females, and vice versa). Other singles (21 and over) who did not submit an ad for personal reasons, but who are on the lookout, can send an e-mail or postal mail request to the Grapevine for a copy of the Love Lines, which will then be sent to them.
       On the other side of the world, Susie, who is a single woman, has requested a copy of Love Lines. She's looking over the li st of eligible bachelors, single fathers, etc., and takes an interest in Robert's ad. If she decides to contact him, she would do so directly via the e-mail address or postal address which follows his ad.--And they take it from there! If Robert had placed a nameless ad, then Susie would have had to contact him via e-mail or postal mail to find out who he is. Exciting! And if Robert and Susie should happen to team up, Robert would notify Love Lines (via the Grapevine) to remove his name from the Love Lines listing.
       Every two months or so, depending on the number of entries we receive, a new Love Lines will be compiled and announced in the Grapevine. Interested parties can obtain a copy of the Love Lines only upon request. This is a confidentiality measure, so that not everyone in the Home is discussing over the breakfast table those who are looking for mates. Please be respectful of these classified ads, and don't discuss them with others or pass on copies of the Love Lines to non-see king-singles.
       For the time being, this service is only available to those 21 and up. The reason for this is due in part to the Charter age restrictions for relationships, since those submitting Love Lines ads have the option to remain anonymous. Additionally, the large majority of requests for a service of this nature have come from those over 21. Please note that the Love Lines bulletin is in the experimental stages. Senior teens or YAs who feel that they would like this service made availabl e to them as well, please write in expressing your feelings, and we will reconsider.
       Most importantly, we'd like to make it very clear that the Love Lines bulletin is not an avenue to find new friends or pen-pals. Love Lines is a service provided to those who are seriously looking for a mate or companion. Regardless of your age, if you are not a genuinely interested single, then please do not request a copy of the Love Lines. Thank you!
       Here are some suggestions for vital statistics to inclu de when submitting an ad to the Love Lines. Remember, the more information you provide, the easier it is for the single on the other end to get to know you!

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Name (optional)
Male/female
Age/sunsign
Brief description (hair color, height, etc.)
Children (if applicable, names/ages)
Your current field and how long you've been there
Do you have plans to move?
Your main Family ministries
Your talents
What you're looking for in a partner
Likes and dislikes
E-mail address
Postal address

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       All eligible singles or single parents wishing to find a soul-mate, please feel free to begin sending in your ads for Love Lines! Including your e-mail address or postal address is a must, as the Grapevine will not forward on your mail for you! Thanks!

CVC Questions and Answers
--courtesy of the ASCRO FED and WS CVC team

       Q: How important is it for a student to have a CVC student card? Also, wh at can they be used for?
       A: How important it is to have a CVC student card depends somewhat on where you live. In most European countries, as well as in the US and South America, student cards can be used for ID, plus they often enable you to get half price or reduced fare for airline and train tickets, movies and other events. In Thailand [or perhaps other countries], a CVC student card won't guarantee you the same advantages, except to show that you are a student. So, it is up to you whether to apply for a CVC student card or not. Anyone over 14 who is a member of the Family (CM or FM) can make use of the CVC program, with or without a student card. However, you may find one useful should the time come that you move to a field where student cards are more widely used and respected.

       Q: Do I have to wait to receive my student card before applying for a CVC certificate?
       A: No, you do not need to wait for your student card. Please go ahead and send the required forms listed (see reference below). However, please be sure to go over your course requirements to make sure you did not miss anything. In addition, it would be good to thoroughly read over "Step 9: Applying for Christian and Vocational Proficiency Certificate" on pg. xvii.

       Q: Should I use my legal name on all of the forms I send in for CVC certificates, etc.?
       A: Yes! The students should use their legal name. And, as much as possible, the Home's CVC Supervisor or Vocational Overseer should use their legal n ames or initials when signing the various forms that require their signatures, so if necessary, they can confirm and will speak up for the validity of the student's education. Please use your legal names on all documents or applications sent in to your CVC Instruction Coordinator.

       Q: Is it possible for a student to obtain a High School diploma only on a certain subject, let's say, science or math? For example, a student may only want to study up to an 8th grade level, and then go for his or her Vocational High School Diploma, but would also like to study math up to a 12th grade level.
       A: (From the WS CVC team:) Generally it is good to respect the guidelines and courses suggested when working towards a High School Diploma. The reason for this is that most educational institutions require that a student have a certain amount of English and other subjects before they will recognize the validity of his or her High School diploma. In the CVC program we have tried to keep a respectable balance between the subjects studied; of course, the higher the academic level of diploma you are seeking, the more will be expected of you in a broad range of subjects. But you will find that the CVC program, unlike many high school and college study programs, is very flexible and "student" friendly.
       The CVC program makes allowances for students who wish to study further in a subject of interest through the New Course Approval option. When additional courses are suggested by a student or CVC Course Supervisor, if approved by the CVC Instruction Coordinator, the new course can be used towards one of the existing certificates, or a new certificate can even be created by the CVC Instruction Coordinator. CVC Instruction Coordinators should communicate about new certificates with WS and with other Area CVC Coordinators, so these certificates can also be made available to CVC students in other areas. So, in the example above, the student studying advanced math could submit a New Course A pproval form describing the course contents, and if this is above and beyond the scope of the level of the High School diploma they want, they can suggest what kind of recognition or certificate they would like to receive upon completion of their proposed program.

       Q: Would an SGA need to take the Junior High School examinations, or can you issue them a Junior High or Vocational High School diploma without this if they are over a certain age?
       A: No matter what their age, CVC students need t o prove they have attained an eighth grade level to receive either one of the above diplomas. However, THE FOLLOWING CORRECTION SHOULD BE MADE IN YOUR CVC MANUAL: Page xvii currently states:
       To obtain a CVC Junior High School diploma a student must pass the CVC Junior High Examinations in language arts, mathematics, science and social studies with a grade of 70% or more.
       This point should now be revised to say:
       To obtain a CVC Junior High School diploma a student must pass the CVC Junior H igh Examinations in language arts, mathematics, science and social studies with a grade of 70% or more, or provide other suitable documentation of their education to a grade eight level of achievement.

       For older students, this proof can be in the form of records from their previous schooling, or they can do a quick review and take the CVC examinations or other respected achievement tests locally available. As is explained in the CVC manual, page xvii: "Grade eight level of achievement can be confirmed through standardized tests such as: national or local achievement tests, California Achievement Tests [CAT], Stanford Achievement Tests [SAT--TASK], Iowa Achievement Tests [ITBS--TAP], or other standard achievement tests. See Appendix B for sources of such tests."
       [Note from CVC team: Sorry, we don't seem to have included this information in Appendix B. One source of these tests is through Bob Jones University in the USA. Christian Light also offers the California Achievement Tests to their Full Program students.]

       Q: Many of our senior teens/YAs/SGAs would like to obtain their CVC High School diploma but get discouraged because they are too busy to spend the needed time to prepare. Any suggestions?
       A: Don't despair!--The Lord has provided a very accessible alternative--the CVC Vocational High School diploma! As stated in the section Applying for Your High School Diploma (CVC manual, page xvii), all you need to obtain your Vocational High School diploma is the followi ng:
       a) Have a CVC Junior High School diploma or other suitable documentation of your education to a grade eight level of achievement;
       b) Earn 20 credits in vocational studies courses in the CVC program;
       c) Earn 20 credits in Christian studies courses in the CVC program.
       This means that after passing the Junior High tests (or some other suitable proof of grade eight achievement), you can choose any of the many courses in the CVC Vocational Studies offering a total of 20 credits (see pages 3.EDU.1 through 9 SUR.13), plus any of the many courses in the CVC Christian Studies offering a total of 20 credits. (See pages 2.REL.1 through 2.REL.30.) Once you look over the available courses, you'll see that most of you can very easily obtain the required credits through all the past reading and experience you have had. Simply taking the time to fill out the appropriate forms and getting them signed by your CVC Course Supervisor will earn you a diploma!

       Q: Are there any CVC High School examinations to prove that a student has achieved the level necessary to get a CVC General High School diploma?
       A: As yet, no, although some areas have expressed a desire to help prepare them. For now, you'll have to depend on the individual CVC Course Supervisor's evaluations of the students' progress in the required courses. See page xvi for suggestions for evaluating student progress.
       However, here are two new alternatives for applying for a CVC General High School diploma. THESE CHANGES SHOULD BE ADDED TO YOUR CVC MANUAL, page xvii. This page currently says:

3. General High School Diploma
       To be eligible for a CVC General High School diploma, students must:
       a) have CVC Junior High School diploma, or other suitable documentation of their education to a grade eight level of achievement;
       b) earn 40 credits in the required academic courses as set down in the academic section of the CVC program;
       c) earn 20 credits in vocational studies courses in the CVC program;
       d) ear n 20 credits in Christian studies courses in the CVC program
       Point (b) above should now be changed to read:
       b) earn 40 credits in the required academic courses as set down in the academic section of the CVC program; or satisfactorily complete GED exams; or complete standardized achievement tests (as described in point 2a above) to a grade 10 level of academic achievement.
       [Note: If others of you have suggestions of ways to validate or verify your High School achievements, please submit the m to your CVC Instruction Coordinator for consideration. Thank you!]

       Q: For a Foreign Language certificate you need 16 credits, but there is a section "Special certificate available: Oral and Written Translations." However, there is no way to get the foreign language diploma without taking the credits from that section. What's the difference in diplomas?
       A: (Reply from the CVC team:) Sorry! This is a mistake in the CVC manual. Thank you for pointing it out! The number of credits for a Fore ign Language certificate should be 11, not 16. Oral and Written Translations is a separate certificate which can be obtained, regardless of whether you want to do the rest of the course or not. However, most students who apply for the Oral and Written Translations certificate will have already completed the requirements for the Foreign Language certificate, so can apply for both certificates.

your views on issues

American attitudes
USA
       (From a male SGA who helped oversee 60 JETTs/teens at a large Family Camp in the USA:) It's sad to see the degenerative effect remaining in the States is having on these kids. The difference in their clothes, behavior and attitudes even from a year ago is clearly evident. There was a marked difference in the kids that had recently come from the field: they were more respectful and had much more wholesome attitudes.
       During the "America the Whore" class, the topic of abortion came up. We were pretty shocked to see how some had a strong pro-abort ion point of view. Some of them are completely non-Family in spirit. They need to be won to the Family, starting with the basics. It's sad to see the state of these kids! Many do have potential, if only we could get them out of the USA and doing something with their lives. If something is not done, we will lose many of them to the System.

"Complimentare"
Italy
       (From Mary Mom:) I have come in contact with several large families who were making their way to the mission field (three to India, one to Estonia, a few to Romania and one to the Ukraine). Now that I am pioneering with my own large family in Italy, my heart goes out to them, as I know what a big step of faith it takes.
       A couple of families told me that when they were just trying to make it in the West, it was always a major struggle to make ends meet, even when they had extra personnel in the Home. But when they determined to go to the field, their whole method of raising support changed and the Lord began to supply abun dantly for them. Although they really worked at it (some for up to two years) to get enough help, supporters and funds to be able to launch out with all their children, still, it was all building towards something and they had goals to accomplish together as a family.
       One couple who wanted to go to Estonia put together a brochure with their family's picture stating their plans. They listed the different items and amount of funds that they would need to get rolling, and a list of materials they wanted to take for their CTP work in Estonia. They traveled around the neighboring cities giving their brochure to shop owners, saying they would come back to see if there was anything the shop could give. They made many contacts who continue to give to this day, two years later.
       So, like they say here in Italy, I have nothing but "complimentare" for all they've done to fight through the battle that they've faced: teaching their kids, winning back some of their teens, ministering to contacts with their children, raising support--and also preparing to go to a mission field!

Educational concerns
Japan
       (From Ginny:) In the past year, I have heard from six teens/YAs in our area who have taken the GED test; they not only passed, but got very high scores. Three of the YAs (all tested in different countries) said that the person in charge, after seeing their scores, asked them if they had been home-schooled. When the YAs answered yes, and asked them why they asked, the proctor said: "Because home-schooled kids always get the highest scores." Most of these young people had been very worried or concerned about their education; they felt it wasn't sufficient, and were pleasantly surprised to find they had perfect or near-perfect scores in several of the categories.
       On the other hand, it seems there is a need in many Homes for the teens' study time to be more fruitful. Several Homes have tried to fulfill the Charter requirement by scheduling study time, but they may not reall y know where their teens are at educationally, what they need to work on, and what the teens are accomplishing during that time. Some are just "beating the air" because they lack direction and goals in their studies.
       Many Homes feel the only time they can afford to let the teens study is in the evening. This may work fine in some situations, but some teens are pretty tired in the evening and don't learn as readily. If it's possible to schedule some of their study hours during the day, it inspi res a better attitude towards study time, especially for teens who are behind in their studies.
       I have met many teens that are not motivated or inspired about their study time. But I have seen teens change this attitude when a concerned adult or YA got involved and conveyed to the teens that their education is important. With the CLE and CVC programs, you don't have to be a teacher or even as smart as the teens! All you have to do is encourage them, help them set goals, help them keep their re cords, make sure they are consistently studying, and help them obtain the materials they need.
       If you want to get more involved with your teens' schooling but don't know where to start, try giving them the CVC Junior High School Exams. Studying for the exams and taking them gives them a solid goal, and once they have taken them, both you and they will know how to better use their four or eight hours of weekly study time. Plus, it's very easy for them to go on and get a CVC Vocational High Scho ol diploma after that!

Your standard vs. mine
Colombia
       (From Someone:) I used to live in Indonesia, and now I live in Colombia; our way of living has changed drastically. Before we used to go door-to-door, but now we major on witnessing to the youth, and when we do, we become one with them, we dress like them, we talk like them. But because it's not some people's way of doing it, they say it's not the Family standard.
       Everybody has got their own level, and it doesn't help when other peop le get self-righteous and criticize you for the way you do things. Maybe our standard isn't as high as others, but we love the Lord and we try to do our best for Him. We "go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature," we try to love one another, and we try to keep the Family standard high so everyone can see it.
       However, like normal humans we fall into the traps of the Enemy and we make mistakes. We might listen to a little System music now and then; we might even use that ugl y language that the people in the world use. That's because we are human and we fall into those traps; but we stop, and we try not to do it.

Surrounded by nationals
Russia
       (From a female SGA:) I live in a beautiful Home of dedicated disciples, mostly Polish and Russian. There's also one East German girl and a young man from Australia. I have been the only SGA for a long time. I admire the nationals, as they joined during a period when they were a little out of place age-wise in some ways ( they are presently 24-30). I have nothing but good things to say about them. I feel they keep things changing and going forward.
       Our Home has been winning lots of disciples, and I think one reason is because the new disciples remember how they were won to the Family; that's how they witness to and challenge others. Of course, it all boils down to the fact that it's a miracle of the Lord's spirit that His sheep heed the call, but I must say these guys have been good channels for Jesus to work t hrough!

Need for understanding
Eastern Europe
       (From an adult:) I recently had some rather discouraging encounters with other Family members who think they need to be some sort of self-styled policemen. We've been working on closing down a large Home, paying bills, finding a new team to work with, raising funds to open a new Home, and it has taken longer than we had anticipated. The Lord opened a door with my wife's mom who lovingly took us in. Some brethren are very understanding of this, but there are others who seem to think that a difficult situation in transit could never happen to them. They bombard us with questions: How long will we be in that situation? Are we in line with the Charter? When are we going to move on?--Etc. They don't even ask if we're doing okay or if we need any help.
       If the CROs have the authority to make exceptions for difficult situations, then why do some brethren think they need to be defenders of the Charter and take on the role of a policeman? Hav ing the CROs do that should be enough, and it seems the Family should concentrate more on making each other feel welcome and loved, such as to offer a cup of coffee or a snack when you visit. But this doesn't seem to be Family policy in the Homes I've visited recently, sad to say.
       This is so unpleasant that I wanted to write about it in hopes that this sort of thing would stop! God help us all be more loving and understanding.

support-a-missionary
       -- On-fire Croatian team pioneering in Sp lit needs your help, big or small, to support exciting CTP projects. Send all gifts to CT001 via TRF. E-mail: denise1@usa.net.
       -- Thai nationals Gid and Claire and seven children are going to pioneer a new city. Need support! We greatly appreciate it. Will you help us reach Thailand? Contact via ASCRO.
       -- Our goal is China. We are looking for someone who could "adopt us" with support. We will send pictures and newsletters. Contact us via Polish ABM.--Polish Steven and Rose

grapes of thank fulness

       I'm talking about a single mom with five kids who has faithfully supported several missionary families in China, Ukraine, India and Africa monthly by sending 25% of her income in gifts and offerings (besides her tithe). She's working on becoming CM again, and is heading to the mission field of Africa, where she has a Home waiting to receive her. If the Lord leads you to help her towards her fare to Africa, please do. Give a big hand for Heidi Vine in Scotland! We love you, Heidi!--An d great shall be your reward!
       --Jonathan and Mary, Ukraine

       As a team that has had to go to Western Europe at different times for legal purposes and fund-raising, over and over again we have found ourselves needing the help of our Family Homes there. We always feel a little reluctant to ask for help, but each time they have gone out of their way to help, often at great sacrifice. Their sample is always convicting, and we'd like to be as loving and helpful as they are. Thanks to: John, Joy, Jessica, Elena and Home in Austria; Gabriela in Austria; The Lake House in Switzerland; Joy in Switzerland; Leland and Grace in Germany; Micha and Christiana in Germany; The Bratislava Home; Peter and Selah and Philip and Susi in Sweden. We love you!
       --Stephen and Esther, Russia

       There is a special couple in the Family who keep surprising us again and again. They've sent us love gifts throughout the years, and it really touched our hearts to know that the last gift they sent us was from the ir own mission field in Taiwan where we know there is a great need. Our love and prayers are sent to you, dear Luke, Heidi and the girls!
       --Sam, Slava and the girls, Romania

Mama jewels on … learning to be positive
--to a staff member
       You really are positive. You amaze and encourage me with your good sample of enthusiasm. When I was talking to Gabe the other day about you, I said, "I thought you told me one time that she has a real problem with negative thinking?" Gabe said, "Well, she u sed to, but she's been so positive recently. She just has to make sure she doesn't let herself get on that negative track." I said, "I bet it's all the Word she's been getting day after day [this staff member helps to transcribe prophecies]; it can't help but affect you positively."
       So you can see how the Lord can change you. You prayed such desperate prayers against your negative thinking, and the Lord has answered. It's wonderful! If you just don't let that one negative thought enter in, if you resist those first thoughts, really fight, praise, pray, read the Word and do whatever you have to do, go to someone for prayer and nip it in the bud, then you don't go down all the way.
       I know you used to describe yourself as a negative thinker, and other people might even have, but now you're described as a positive person, and that's a real miracle, don't you think?

letters to the editor

Disheartened teen responds
       I was touched by the response from Philip (of Angela) to my lette r to the editor. I am the "Disheartened Teen" who wrote that article in Grapevine #12.
       Reading your response helped me to understand more why you felt the way you did. I haven't been in any Home where teens or YAs have left the Family, but if I had been in a Home where five adults left, I would probably feel the same way about the adults as you felt about the young people. It's very true what you said about what the System kids are asked to endure, in comparison to Family kids. It's easy to fo rget how much we have and just see all the glitters of the System. I really like what you said about the Home council meetings. So true, ha!
       By the way, there are many adults who I respect and love deeply; they are some of the best friends I have. We definitely do have a lot more in common than any other group in the world and I think it is wonderful that we can work together in this way.
       My respect and admiration to you and all other adults who take the time to try to understand. We greatly appreciate it and need your support and love and prayers.
       --Stephanie (18), Lebanon

Agreeing with Sarina
       We wholeheartedly agree with Sarina (17, USA) in her "Dear adults" article (see Grapevine #27, letters to the editor) It's true that sometimes adults are over-protective or they overreact a little when it comes to teen freedoms. Of course, they're doing it for our good and we appreciate it and all, but I guess they've got to realize that we teens like to try new things and be "our own person," as I'm sure they did too when they were young.
       Of course, the adults can still point things out to us and give us needed suggestions and we'll listen to them. But it's helpful to remember if you want us teens to respect and obey you more, without arguing--then try to understand us more and put yourselves in our shoes. I bet if we work together and try to understand each other we'll make a great team!
       --two teen girls, Europe

Re: Agreeing with Sarina
       I think most adults realize that teens like to try new things, be their own person, and don't have the same interests as we do. The thing that becomes alarming to adults is when they view what they consider "not good fruit" in a teen's behavior or attitudes, and the natural conclusion to draw is that it is a fruit of the freedoms they are allowed or the activities they pursue in excess. In an ideal world we would all remember that God looks on the heart and not on the outward appearance, but unfortunately sometimes we can only judge a person by their outward appearance; that's just "human nature."
       When the majority of a teen's conversation centers only on the latest movie they've seen, how their favorite sports team is doing in the finals, the newest computer game they got, what their favorite movie star or pop artist is up to; when they sit at devotions or fellowship times like a bump on a log, not praising, singing or praying; when they are heard saying unloving, unkind and cutting remarks to their peers or younger brothers and sisters, and there is seldom any "counter-balance" seen in conversation, deed or thought that glorifies or lifts up the Lord, or gives any indication the teen even loves or acknowledges the Lord, this is when the adults "fritz" and get uptight and bent out of shape. Naturally, their only conclusion is that bad fruit is being borne of whatever freedoms or liberties the teens are allowed, and thus they should be taken away.
       So my advice to you teens is, if you want to contin ue to have your freedoms, to try new things, be different and "your own person," then allow a little more of the Lord to come through and be manifested in your countenance, conversation and actions, and less of the System and System ways and attitudes. If the adults in your Home know that you are in the Word, love the Lord, are praying and hearing from Him, are behind the New Wine and want to follow Jesus, then they will have a lot more peace about letting you burn free and be a little wild and crazy, because they know you have a good connection with Him. But how are they ever going to know that unless you do your part by letting Him shine through you in your actions, your conversation and your countenance?
       --a WS shepherd

"… those YAs"
       I just read the letter to the editor from Mary YA in ASCRO (see Grapevine #28) about some YAs who visited from another field. I was one of those YAs. I agree with Mary; we probably should've been more considerate of her feelings, as she is sticki ng it out in a more confined situation than ours. But on the other hand, there were times that we felt looked down on for the more free situation that we live in.
       I think the solution is to all be more considerate of each other, and to not think that we or the way that we're operating is better. One of the reasons for the Charter was so that people could find a place where they'd be happy serving the Lord, while abiding within the boundaries of the Charter.
       --Genty (SGA), Russia

thanking …
--for your spirit story contributions
       Natasha (14, of Sarah I., Thailand), Joy (of Dan, Mexico), Peter S., (Paradise Home, Mideast), Lorraine (20, Siberia), Marie (ASCRO), Ruby Happy (Moldova), Joshua Nehemiah (YA, Czech Republic), Peter Heart (Pakistan), Mike (17, Ivy Home, Bangkok), Beth Brooks (Bangalore), Lily (16, DF Home, Bangkok), Thai Angel (15, Thailand), Philip (of Faith, Thailand), Angela Dream (19, USA), Simon SF (Japan), John Servant (Paraguay), Peter German (Thailand), Peter ( 14, Mideast), Praise Honey (Brazil), Elizabeth (Nigeria).

getting involved
--tips on witnessing in your local neighborhood
       We initiated a local "Greek" afternoon coffee party in our neighborhood, inviting all our neighbors to attend. We were able to use the local community house for two hours. We offered everyone original Greek coffee and homemade cookies. We were able to introduce ourselves, our work and our home schooling style to our neighbors, together with a geography class about Gree ce. At the same time, our neighbors gave us a few useful neighborhood tips. We apologized for any wrongdoing in the neighborhood and we all departed as good friends.--David Search, Japan

       We volunteered to help our local authorities here, which includes the city's firemen, and they asked us to give them Spanish classes. We did and it turned out to be a key point in winning this city to the Lord!--Ben, Maria and Vicky, Brazil

       For those who have kids going to public school, we have found th at being active with the school PTA provides a terrific way to reach out and make friends with lonely mommies.--Giddel and Kumiko, Japan

       When we take our kids on get-out, the neighborhood children often join in our games. We witness to them, give them posters and have won many souls this way. One day one of the girls shyly asked if she could have a stack of posters to give to her relatives. Soon there were three girls coming every few days, asking for more posters to give out! Once they aske d for 500 posters to give out at an end of a school meeting, which the school director had given them permission to distribute. I gladly gave them a stack of 600.
       We now have started a weekly meeting with the neighborhood kids who we play with. Our kids do skits, tell stories and look at the poster book together! It gives our kids a way to pour out, which they really enjoy!--Maria, Russia

       Since we live in a residential area, salesmen often knock on our door, trying to get us to buy their p roducts. We have been faithful to witness to all who come to our door, giving them a simple witness and a Somebody Loves You tract. At times we invite them in for a cup of coffee and homemade cookies. They are impressed and even sometimes overwhelmed with our openness and friendliness.--David Search, Japan

gaining givers

       Two months ago, we started putting aside a percentage to send to a field of our choice. Since then, the Lord has blessed our income to the point that that percentage of g ift is now double what it was, and we have over half of what we need to put down for our new house and are three months ahead on our payments for our new van! For two weeks in a row now, we have received three unsolicited gifts of $100 each from friends, and this week we already got $150! We believe that the Lord is blessing our giving to the field, and also getting back to personal witnessing and postering more.
       --Christina, Patrick and Peace Jubilee, USA

       This month has been one of our be st months financially. We were able to double our regular monthly support to eight Homes in five mission fields, as well as give a $5,000 gift for the books project, and a gift to each of the Homes in our immediate area. We started out by giving small donations to everyone, like $20 or $50, and as we increased our donations, the Lord increased our income in gigantic ways. TYJ!--Philip, Izzy and Sebastien, USA

ws news

       Peter and Matthew recently made a trip to visit the GPU and the NACRO of fice. Peter held inspirational meetings at both Homes. He and Matthew were able to meet with each department at these units to gain a broader understanding of what each does, and to pray and counsel with these teams to determine what could be done to provide better service to the Family in their respective areas of responsibility. New tools and projects in the works were prayed about and discussed at the GPU. These pubs as well as other ongoing endeavors could be very fruitful in feeding the she ep, so please keep these projects in your prayers. Thank you!

ideas and tips

Phone tooling
       We have been doing most of our videoing by phone. When someone buys a video, we ask them for references, and they usually give from one to ten people. We make appointments with those people, and many of them also buy videos. We ask them for references, and end up with an endless list of people to call. We got out 135 videos this month this way!
       --Marcos, Faith, Rebeca and Angela, Ecuador

Possi ble inheritances
       Tabitha's dad offered to send her a $3,000 gift this month due to some new laws in the States, where if people have money in the bank that they plan to give to their children when they die, they lose a lot due to taxes. But you can give up to $5,000 to any of your children and write it off of your taxes as well. Perhaps others might want to ask their parents about this.
       --John, Rose and Tabitha, Turkey

Memorizing again
       We all made the commitment to memorize a verse at t he breakfast table and quote it at the beginning of devotions. One day a week, we individually review the whole week's verses, and "judges" vote on amount, presentation, boldness, and fluency. The winner gets an extra sleep-in during the week! Now we are all actively memorizing again!
       --Christina, Patrick and Peace, USA

peanuts `n' raisins illustration:
       When we were burning trash, Mishal (2) said, "Why are you cooking the garbage?"--courtesy of Timmy (9), Pakistan

       --newdayz comic str ip

       --peculiar people comic strip

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