New Beginnings and Change

“In his heart a man plans his course, but the Lord determines his steps.” Proverbs 16:9

On Joseph’s journey, he didn’t know where he was going, but he knew where he could no longer stay where he was. Fortunately, we do know that he ended up in the palace…

When I was in Redding in October 2008, I knew California was my starting point. I can identify with Joseph. I know that my time for now in Charlotte, NC is coming to a close while the doors to California are opening. I know there is much ahead in store for me although I don’t exactly know how it is planned out. Last year I received a word that God was using me to connect the West coast to the East coast. I have been accepted to Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry at Bethel Church. (ibethel.org and ibethel.tv)

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge him and he will make your paths straight. “ Proverbs 3:5

2008 had definitely been a year of new beginnings and change. At the leading of the Lord, he opened the doors wide for me to go out to the west coast, Los Angeles “Dream Center” and to Redding, CA. It was a time of hearing His voice and learning there is a difference between having a heart for something and being “called” for something.

Many of you know the last few years has been challenging for me in many different ways. Multiple surgeries, the financial strain that resulted from lost time at work, chronic pain from Fibromyalgia, and my father’s death were some of the challenges that I faced.

“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.“ Isaiah 41:10

Ministry has been a part of my life; although recently I knew change was coming. I would see and hear messages confirming what He was saying. In the natural, I can’t see how this can happen, but there comes a point that I have to trust Him for that next step. That is where I am. The bottom line is that there is a fear of the unknown, the letting go of my thoughts and ideas of what things should look like. I can sit here and tell you where my heart is but the bottom line is I don’t know what is ahead in this journey God is taking me. What I am looking forward to reaping from this season at BSSM is to be a part of a culture of honor, advancements in prophetic art and photography, emotional and physical healing, and to soak in all that He has and pass that onto others.

I would like to send you “Updates” through email (blogspot.com) and video to keep you up to speed of all God is doing. If you would like to sow into what God is doing in my life and ministry, please prayerfully consider doing so! What a great leap of faith this is!

“..it’s written, no eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love Him” I Corinthians 2:9

What is needed?

Prayer support: Those willing to commit to intercession and to communicate any words that the Lord may give you.

Finances: My friend, Roxy Sweatt, and I will be driving across country from the Carolinas to California. We will be leaving August 3rd, 2009. The drive will take about 4 to 5 days. The trip will cost approximately $750 for gas, hotel accommodations, food, and drink. Entertainment will be free as Roxy will be travelling with me…

Bethel Supernatural School of Ministry is $3,600 and $3,000 for a mission’s trip during the school year. $1800 is due by September 15th, 2009. If you want to help with this you can make it payable to BSSM, and it will be tax deductible. (place my name on a slip of paper, but not on the actual check or it will not be considered tax deductible). You also have the option of calling them and givng them a debit card or credit card over the phone. Please make sure you tell them who the amount is for or it will go into a general school fund.

Personal/ Family: We are responsible for our own housing and personal needs, not to forget the responsibilities I still have in Charlotte. The first year of Bethel is intense, and Redding is a small town. With that combination is can be difficult to find work with the school schedule at BSSM. So I am praying for favor with a job, and God to provide for my monthly expenses. If you would like donate towards living expenses, they will be about $500 per month.

I am planning to return home for Christmas and Spring break throughout this school year, primarily because of Michael. Michael is my son that has Down syndrome. Daniel, Elise and Angela understand what I am doing and where I will be, but the greatest challenge is Michael understanding. If you know of someone that works for an airline that is willing to provide a buddy pass for this or want to assist in this it would be greatly appreciated.

I have spent time adjusting to major changes. As many of you know Michael now lives in an AFL (Alternative Family Living) home. His caretakers are a Christian couple that came in God’s timing. He’s doing very well. Elise married a wonderful man, Ross Smith in May 08. It blesses me to see his love for her and how the Lord orchestrated everything. Daniel will be living in the house while I’m away as he is attending his last year of college and Angela is living in the University area and looking for new employment since losing her job with Wachovia.

Thank you for your time. I look forward to sharing this journey with you. May God richly bless you. Please share your needs also so I may cover you in prayer.
Blessings, Patricia “Tricia” Dowless
(704) 641-4285

I want to leave you with Bethel information. I know this letter has been long and I appreciate the time you have given to read it.

In His love, blessings to you,
Tricia Dowless

ibethel.org or you can call Bethel Church at 530-246-6000 and ask for BSSM school.