Days 16-18

Days 16-18 (Saturday -Monday) Hello Everyone, While Jason and Sammy prepared for Sunday’s sermon, and counseled members of the congregation, Christen was on a retreat with the women of the church. Approximately 30 women in total were there – including a leadership team with the sole focus of serving those newer believers attending the “Encounter.” Even though Christen has been a believer for nine years, she too had plenty to learn through this experience! It was an incredible opportunity to see the Lord at work transforming the lives of those who have very recently committed to following Him! The spiritual growth that took place over 48 hours would take months to attain outside of this concentrated period of teaching and ministry. It was also a blessing to watch as the church lived out the “priesthood of believers” and to know that the fruit of past Hope Chapel Mission teams is now bearing even more fruit. Those who have been in the faith for two or three years spent their entire weekend teaching, praying, or serving meals to those who were converted two or three months ago. WOW! In addition to simply observing the ministry, Christen was also inspired by a specific teaching on the cross. Although so fundamentally basic to our faith, the cross remains profound. Furthermore, every aspect of our ministry must begin and be centered upon it! Speaking of ministry, it’s our last day full day here in Bom Retiro and Christen still refuses to stop! In the midst of saying goodbyes last night, she was also making plans for lunch, ice-cream and more, to take place today. She was delighted to finally spend some time pouring into Agnes, Noelle, and Uliana over lunch. These three sisters were anxious for attention, but have not been consistent in church due to family problems which Satan has used to distract them. When praying, please remember the following requests: · These three girls, and the many lives which have been touched through our ministry here in Bom Retiro and the surrounding area. Pray that the seeds planted here will continue to grow – and bear fruit! · Jason and Christen as they prepare to travel. Pray for Christen as she spends the following week meeting with believers in Rio de Janeiro and Brasilia. · Marcia, Sammy, and Caleb as they transition back into “normal” life. Ask that the Lord would continue to sustain them and give them a period of rest. Blessings, Christen & Jason