Rejoicing in Newness of Life

On the second evening of a three-day evangelistic campaign, the Paysandú church celebrated a baptismal service on Saturday, September 26th. Pastor Ruben Rodriguez baptized eight local believers and three believers from nearby Orgoroso. (The Paysandú church has been responsible for a preaching point in the small town of Orgoroso for many years.) Two other churches sent representatives to this special occasion.

What was particularly encouraging about these baptisms was that more than half of those baptized were older teenagers. Some of the young men, in particular, have developed admirable testimonies at home and at school. What a joyful occasion to witness them publicly identify themselves with their Lord and Savior!

After the service, church members and guests lingered and enjoyed food and fellowship until a satisfactorily Uruguayan, and very late, hour.

Long-Overdue Visit to Colonia

We took advantage of our kids' Spring vacation and made a quick trip to visit Colonia. We had been unable to find an opportunity to do so up until now and knew that we owed the folks there a visit. We served among them for over two years and though we are no longer their "primary care" givers, we wanted to be of encouragement. Our kids thoroughly enjoyed themselves and everyone was excited to meet Elias.

Missionary George Black Promoted

Ultra-veteran missionary George Black was promoted to Heaven just a few weeks shy of celebrating his 102nd birthday.  He preached his last message from the pulpit just five or six weeks before his promotion.  He preached with his life until the very end. Who will stand in his stead?

If his ministry was used by God in your life, you're invited to share a comment at this site.

When It Rains...

Up until recently, we had been experiencing a significant drought here that resulted in failed crops and cattle loss. Eventually, of course, the rain does comes. But it often seems to come all at once or, as it did yesterday, in the form of thunderstorms. Yesterday morning we had a strong storm come through that flung quite a bit of hail against the wind-side windows. While I was mopping the rain that leaked through the windows, I took a couple of pictures.

Family Photo

We're working on a new prayer card, but in the meantime, here is a recent photo.

They Grow Up Quickly...

They grow every day which is why, I suppose, the growth seems subtle to their parents. But when we take pictures of them, and then compare those photos to the ones we took last time, the change is obvious. The change is also a reminder that they are on loan to us for such a very brief time. May God grant us parenting wisdom!

Uruguay in World News

Sometimes a small South American country like Uruguay makes the news in a positive way. Last year, for example, our host country set a world record for the largest barbecue. This year though, Uruguay is making a very different type of news. If legislation currently being approved passes, our hosts will be the first country in South America to legalize gay adoption. You can follow the links to read more about either story--we obviously don't endorse either website.