It's hard to believe that our furlough time has gone by already. We are gearing up to head back to Ivory Coast February 1st. We have enjoyed being back this past year, seeing friends and family while getting to meet some new folks at the same time. I've been thinking about all that has happened over the past year.
Getting involved at the Lebanon Christian Church, who has graciously hosted us this past year, has been both refreshing and fun. The kids have loved going to "church class", especially since it's something they haven't really experienced before this year. For Stephanie and I it has been great to be involved with other adults without having to keep track or worry about the kids. We've been able to develop some good relationships along the way.
I also was excited to get back to my formal education. This past fall I started the Masters Degree in New Testament Studies through Johnson Bible College. It has reminded me that there is a big difference between my personal Bible study and doing class work. I can say I have mostly enjoyed the process (though at times stretching parts of my brain that haven't been stretched in a while!).
We also have traveled around a bit, but not too much (gas prices helped with that some!). Catching up with our partnering churches is always enjoyable. I love sharing about how God is moving and active in Ivory Coast, but it's equally good to hear what God is doing in the life of the church. We are incredibly thankful for our partner churches, they have stepped up in big ways for us. Our monthly financial support raising needs were an increase of $2500/month and over 2/3 of that came from current partners. To say that they encouraged us does not suffice. We feel exceptionally loved!
We are excited too by our new ministry partners from this past year. A small church in Brandywine, West Virgina with big hearts (our kids really enjoyed the visit) and another church in Troy, OH who have some great plans. We look forward to developing the relationships with these two churches! As you might imagine, support raising hasn't always been easy this past year, but God has provided as He always does in His time.
Our one-time Outgoing Budget has done well over the course of this year, again mostly because of the faithfulness of our current ministry partners. Whether it was a VBS over the summer, a special offering for plane tickets or a large gift from the church, you all have been wonderful. We still have about $5,000 left to raise for the up-front expenses of getting reestablished, but fully trust once again that God will provide.
So, thanks for praying for us during this time. Please continue to pray for our family as we make the transition back to Ivory Coast: that the kids would adjust well (little more to it this time), that the last bit of needed funds would come in, and that Mom and Dad would remain sane through it all!
Thanks again. We love you all deeply.
Andy
