Summer is coming to an end here; the children are again passing on their way to classes and we occasionally have a tiny bit of rain. change is in the air. It is not unlike when I was a child and returned to school in September with high expectations and a slight change in the climate that dictated a change of clothing style, but here, it is new uniforms and pencils and paper. And they are excited to see their friends again, and begin a new chapter of life. Their eyes shine, if not their old dusty shoes from last year. It is a time of renewal and I long to join them with their high expectations. Ah to be young!
Life is changing for our ministry as well. Lynn is now living with his mother in Yellville, and I am here carrying on our work, for the time being. The church is in the process of moving to join another church here in Volcan, and will no longer meet in our home. We have found that we are not equipped to serve as pastors of this beautiful, but very immature congregation of believers. The other missionary, Frank,and his wife, are thrilled to take us under their wings, and I am very grateful.
We will continue to help the local elementary school by providing lunches to each student daily, thanks to the generosity of the children of Riverside church in Gassville. They provide the funds and I just buy the food, and reap the smiles and thanks of the children, the teachers, and the parents. It is a wonderful work that I am proud to be a part of.
We also continue to assist children who cannot afford to go to school by purchasing uniforms and school supplies through out the year. In some more severe cases we also provide breakfasts for the children, dental work, eye glasses and try to meet other needs as they arise. This work is sponsored by individuals who choose to sponsor these children. If you would like to help with this work, please contact Holly Smith at Riverside church of Christ. Sorry for the shameless plug, but we have fallen short of our goal to serve 10 children this year.
I will also be offering English tutoring, and we continue to provide assistance to those in need when asked. So, the work is not over, it is moving toward using our talents in the wisest ways possible. God is still at work within His people! I continue to be grateful to be in His service.
The church in Santa Marta sends greetings to all, as does this little group of believers here in Volcan.
God's richest blessings!
