July 2023
An important part of the communion of saints is having visiting preachers bring the Word to us. It reminds us that we are not alone as a congregation, but joined to brothers and sisters of the one holy, catholic, and apostolic church that stretches across the globe. On June 25, Chiesa Riformata Filadelfia was blessed by the preaching of Rev. Dr. Dan Borvan, pastor of Grace United Reformed Church in Torrance, California. Pastor Borvan delivered a sermon on Psalm 40 and I translated. After the service, he joined our congregation for a fellowship meal. It was also encouraging to me and my family to have Pastor Borvan stay with us in our home for a few days. The fellowship of visiting ministers is a blessing.
From left to right: Elder Vittorio Calderaro, Rev. Dr. Dan Borvan, Elder Mimmo Altobelli, Pastor Mike
On Sunday, July 2, after the morning worship service, I had the priviledge of officiating the wedding of CRF members Oscar D’Angelo and Anita Matichecchia. It was a joyful event as we witnessed them exchanging vows and pledging their undying loyalty to one another. We ask that you remember Oscar and Anita in your prayers as they now embark upon married life. May their union always be a reflection of Christ’s sacred bond with his church.
On Thursday, June 22, Janie and I enjoyed a delightful evening with author Douglas Bond, who happened to be in Milan leading a church history tour from Rome to Geneva. He invited us to dinner and to talk about Mission Milan with the tour group, which was comprised of Americans from all over the United States. We were encouraged by their interest and the many questions they had for us.
Pastor Mike with author Douglas Bond, who passed through Milan while leading a church history tour from Rome to Geneva.
Janie, Iain and I will be in the States from July 11-27. I am scheduled to preach and give a presentation at New Haven URC in New Haven, Vermont on July 16 and two URCs in the Toronto area on July 23. Janie and I are also looking forward to seeing our three grown children and one grandchild whom I have not seen since last summer.
New graphics on the church entrance.
Grazie mille!
Thank you for reading these updates and remaining vigilant in prayer for us and Mission Milan. Thank you for your encouragement and financial support. Mission Milan is only possible because of people like you.
Pastor Mike
“But I do not account my life of any value nor as precious to myself, if only I may finish my course and the ministry that I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.” ~ Acts 20:24
If you would like to help by making a donation, you may give online here on our website or send a check to:
Escondido United Reformed Church
1864 N. Broadway
Escondido, CA 92026
Attn: Mission Milan
