Ingazeira's Paved Road

Yesterday I got to go on a quick trip to Ingazeira.  I hadn't been there since the 18 kilometers of road had been paved.  I think it was the first time we had gone there and returned on the same day.  Marcy and the many others saw it on the Children's Day celebration there. What a blessing it has been for this small town and sure helps our trip go better.  

We appreciate your prayers as Carlos and Dinalda have been investing time in a few young couples.  Carlos recently did a little one day retreat with some of them at a little hotel in Afogados da Ingazeira.  Carlos is pictured here chatting with some owners of a local business.

Some Perks in Missionary Work

Would love to do biking every week, but so far don't get to go that often.  But when I do it's a great way to get away from the intensity of ministry.  I was glad to find this new hobby and glad Marcy has encouraged me to "go for it". 

News from Ingazeira

Pastor Carlos recently shared stories and pictures about the work in Ingazeira.  The celebrations at the end of the year included a special Christmas service with presentations by the children, and a graduation celebration for graduates and teachers from Ingazeira held at the Church building.  Each precious life is being touched by our faithful prayers and giving to the Outback ministry.  I am so thankful to all of you.  We have seen some real miracles recently so know many are remembering our Brazilian missionaries in this tough region.

Two of our biggest prayer warriors

We want to end the year with this last post - honoring two of our biggest prayer warriors whom I caught in action when we were there last at their house.  I thank God for parents who have backed us in every way, especially through their prayers.  We know we have many others who pray regularly for us, but I wanted to honor these - especially since Dad just had a birthday on Dec. 25!  Happy Birthday Dad, and thanks for all you have done and do for us.  (You too, Mom)

Pastor Kenede starts a group

Part of the idea of the mentoring groups is that new groups be formed.  Pastor Kenede from my group just started a group a few months ago to bless other pastors in his area.  Here we are shooting the breeze at the fellowship time last week.  Kenede is getting married in early January to his sweetheart. 

Pastors' End of the Year fellowship

We had a great time with the pastors from the various mentoring groups out at Camp Paradise this past Monday.  A group of around 100 came out.  Some braver ones went on the kayak adventure, but all had good fellowship.  My group is known as the rowdy group... Can't explain why!

Couples' Christmas Banquet

Friday we had a great event for the couples put on by that ministry's leadership.  All did a great job for the event to be a success.  It was held in a Hotel on Piedade's beach front.  Pastor Claudio brought a neat message on keeping the romance in our marriages.  Some couples presented a special moment to their spouses like singing a song or reciting a poem.  Others wrote cards or brought gifts to each other.  Again we were glad to have visitors present.