News Update

This little species of finch, the Bramling, or in German 'Bergfink' (Mountain Finch), has got itself into the news here this past week. The bird is a regular winter visitor from Scandinavia, both to Britain and mainland Europe, but this year the species has arrived in the Black Forest in flocks of several thousand. The local newspaper reported that streets in Lörrach had to be closed to traffic because cars couldn't avoid killing them! We also had a flock in Utzenfeld although not so large. They are apparently particularly attracted to beech woods where they will clear the area of beech nuts completely. I wonder if they have also been seen in Britain? A response from bird watchers would be welcome!

On another subject, we are hoping and praying for a positive interest in our first Easter Bible Retreat. The programme for the four days Thursday 1st April evening until Monday 5th April midday provides for fellowship, worship, Bible ministry and relaxation. The four preachers, Alfred Stäheli, Dr. Bernhard Kaiser, Geoff Holder and myself Len Holder will each give two Bible expositions from 1 Peter 1. For full details see our website: www.haus-barnabas.com All will take place in both English and German. We are expecting a good German contingency but it would be good to see English-speaking guests also well represented. Do please pray for us and consider the possibility of coming! It may not be so impractical as you might imagine. You could always stay a few extra days to make the journey worth while!