God spoke to my heart to publish a magazine that would trumpet the "Good News." He wanted South Floridians to know God is alive! Not only would they be aware of the concerts and seminars that would be ongoing, but those with particular needs, could be referred to professionals, where those needs would be met. I knew God had all the answers but how would we let His people know? By a magazine, of course. We could refer addicts to a professional in a ministry, thereby helping them unlock the enemy of destruction in their lives. Through a referral listing in the magazine, we could refer those in need to ministries that were in a position to meet their needs and, at the same time, those interested in volunteering, could see the needs at home.

I would beg God relentlessly, "If we only had a Christian magazine where people could find out more about You; one that would show them how much You loved them and showed them what You were really like, they would want to serve You. People aren't serving You God, because they don't know You exist. And even if they do, they just don't know how to get in touch with You. Then finally, after complaining about it long enough, God confirmed in my heart that I was to publish a magazine.

I remember that day so clearly. I thought, "Are you telling me to foster this magazine God? You can't be. I've never done one before. Am I hearing correctly?" But the more I denied the voice, the more He confirmed it. It got to the point where I could no longer deny the call. It was so obvious. I decided to obey God. I had learned enough by now, to know God knows best, regardless of what I thought.

It's been three difficult years. I feel as though I've earned a Ph.D. degree sometimes. You see, I never knew how to typeset a publication, design a database, hire employees or publish a magazine. I really didn't consider myself a writer either. My only experience in the publishing arena was selling ads from my previous business. I knew if I looked at my circumstances long enough, I'd probably talk myself right out of it. As a matter of fact, I had enough people doing it for me. It was very discouraging!!

But, after three long challenging years, God's vision for The Trumpeter remains the same. Serve and Unite South Florida Christians. How? By providing a vehicle of information that would answer every need and direct every person to the resources they need in Christ. We want to publish information from every source available such as churches, ministries, seminars, out of town guests, concerts, etc. To do this, we need your information.

Can you imagine how many people would get saved? How about the people who would start attending your place of worship if they only knew it existed? How about the support you could receive if you just got the word out that you are here?

The Body of Christ in South Florida has so much to be thankful for and so much to give. We have a wealth of information that can transform lives. We are God's only hands and feet to tell others about what He has accomplished for us and wants to do for them? I believe we have to get His news out to our community no matter what it takes. I believe there should be Trumpeters everywhere, packed with listings of information about every event in the Christian community at news stands, public libraries, shopping centers, etc. People are dying out there. They are waiting for the answers to their problems and some are looking for a church that will reach out to their dire and hurting needs.

We know the answers. Let us provide others with the knowledge we have. If it only took twelve men to spread the gospel, we have no excuses. There are approximately 1400 churches and ministries in Dade and 700 in Broward. I believe South Florida can be greatly changed and enhanced.

If you believe in The Trumpeter magazine and the vision God has given us, we ask you to be a partner with us through your prayers and financial support as we celebrate three years of service to the Lord. Together we WILL make a difference for Christ. Please strengthen us to move forward for Christ.

Martiele P. Swanko is Publisher & Editor-in-Chief of The Trumpeter