December 10, 2007

Hi all,

Well, I waited a little later to write this letter this month and I hope it gets there in time to get in the mission sheet. The reason for the delay is this: Tonight we had the first graduating class of our Seminary here in Caraguatatuba, Brazil, in the New Life Baptist Church. When we started the Seminary four years ago, we had twenty-three students. Nine of those students completed the four-year program and received their diplomas tonight in the first of many graduation ceremonies. As one of the professors, I was able to participate in the diploma ceremony, and it was very gratifying. How AWESOME is the God we serve. Present at this graduation ceremony was five more students that are in the process of completing the four-year program. We are looking forward to the next graduation and these five receiving their diplomas. We were able to get donated the caps and gowns for the service, and everything went well and looked very official. We are praying for more students for the coming years. This will greatly enhance the ongoing ministry here in Caraguatatuba. Pray for us as we continue in this training endeavor.

This month we have been very busy in the work at the Vocational School. We are building the training area for the boys to learn and put into practice the profession of key making and all that goes along with that profession. The building is nearing completion and it just lacks paint and two machines that are essential in the training. Here is where I need some of your help - These machines are expensive. One costs $2,000.00 and the other costs $700.00. For whoever would like to help in the purchase of these machines, I will be home in the States for Christmas and New Year's and will be coming back to Brazil on the 20th of January. This does not give you much time to call me in Lexington at phone number 859-252-2859 so that I can give you our bank number, or you can simply donate to BFM and designate it to "Vocational School Key Shop". You can rest assured it will be used to create miracles in young men's lives and thanks so much for caring.

This trip is a semi-planned trip for Barbara to return to the doctor for follow-ups on the biopsy done while we were home the last time. Also, her mother has had some health issues and we will be able to check up on her. This will give us time to spend with the family at Christmas. The third reason for the trip is that Barbara and I are going to be grandparents, and we are hoping to be in the States for the birth of our first granddaughter! Pray that all goes well with all our plans for this trip. Also pray for the work that we are leaving here in Brazil for the time that we are home.

We would like to wish each and every one of you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Thanks everyone for your prayers and support this year. Keep up the good work!

In His service,

A.J. and Barbara