Pictures of our kids

I thot I'd post a few pictures of our kids from these days with them. Stephanie and Daniel are expecting any day. Kelli and Marcelo have our first grandchild Leah, and Mike and Anne also live near Mike's sisters. It's been fun to be at each of their houses these days.

New Stage for Junior Church

It's been exciting to see the new stage taking shape for the Junior Church. The team that works in this ministry are encouraged with the new possibilities this gives them. Training leaders has always been a goal of ours and this ministry has given the chance for many to gain experience and learn how to better invest in young lives.

Youth Group Summer Kick-off

On Saturday Feb. 5th we had our big Kick-off for the Koinonia youth group.  It was a big bash as we had the beach/summer theme going on with the whole church decorated and set up that way.  We had 185 out, including a few young at heart like Marcy and I and other helpers.  Pray that many of these who don't have a church home will be back to our weekly events.  

Pastor's group starts up again

Tomorrow my pastor's mentoring group starts up again after our summer vacation time.  It's been a real learning experience for me to lead this group.  We have had some leave and others come in the last few years, but there's been a core group that has hung together.  I'm posting a picture from one of our outings a while back.  Most weeks we meet at Koinonia Baptist.

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.