USA (MNN) — A memorial service was held Wednesday for Tiffany Johnson and Philip Crouse, Youth With A Mission team members slain Sunday in Colorado. he service was called "A Celebration of Life for Tiffany and Philip."
Three funds were set up to honor the two slain missionaries. The first fund covers funeral and other burial expenses incurred by the Johnson and Crouse families. The second fund will establish a "Tiffany and Phil" scholarship to help young Christians who wish to dedicate their lives to overseas mission work. The third fund will help ease the cost of flying in more than 20 family members of the victims.
The second fund reflects the passions of these two missionaries. Johnson reportedly was headed for Japan in 2008, and Crouse wanted to serve in Kazakhstan.
Global Advance's David Shibley says of their example: "The tragedies of the shootings in Colorado remind us again of the serious nature of obeying the Great Commission. I do believe that though it was a random shooting, there was satanic intent. I think the enemy has targeted this generation as well, because he sees the mission potential."
To encourage young people toward evangelism, Shibley says their team is taking a three-pronged approach in 2008. "We're going to make a national tour of several Bible colleges and Christian schools, speaking in chapel, challenging young people, again for the fulfilling of the Great Commission. Secondly, Global Advance is going to be involved in a legacy series. And then finally, I'm going to be involved in personal mentoring."
Meanwhile, New Life Church held a special prayer vigil at 7 p.m. last night to pray for and mourn the victims of the Sunday shooting rampage by 24-year-old Matthew Murray.
According to a statement made on the church Web site by Senior Pastor Brady Boyd, the service will "begin our healing process. After the meeting, we will have personal ministry available for those who need it."
Two church members, sisters Rachel Works, 16, and Stephanie Works, 18, were killed by Murray before he killed himself. Their father, David Works, 51, was shot twice and is in fair condition in a hospital.
Shibley urges prayer for the families of the victims of the shooting. Pray, too, for a continued boldness of faith for those touched by their lives.
