January 3, 2006

Dear Brothers of the Beloved Lord Jesus and Sisters of the Savior:

Once again we (Harold and Marie) greet you by letter from the “land of eternal summer”. If we were with you in the USA we would be singing: “It is summer time in my heart, it is summer time in my heart. Since Jesus saved me; new life he gave me. Even in winter time it’s summer in my heart.” We hope all of you were blessed as much as we were during the holiday season. Marie and I thank you for your prayers and your Christmas cards you sent us. “May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost” (See Romans 15:13).

During this “Mission Sheets Month” which began December 3, 2005 and ends today, January 3, 2006, I preached 6 sermons. All were preached at the 24th of March Baptist Church where I serve as pastor and Marie and I are members. I heard at least 4 sermons preached. On December 17th, I attended Rosa de Sharon BC anniversary services. At noon Marie and I attended a dinner given by the Brazilian Baptist Faith Missions. Many Brazilian pastors were present. On December 13, at night, we both attended a special program and supper at the home of Bro. Wanderley Mello Rodrigues and his wife. On the 24th at 9pm we celebrated the birthday of our driver’s wife at their home with a supper. Then on the 27th of December we celebrated our 51st wedding anniversary with Asa Mark, Lucia and Marcia. These special occasions were very enjoyable.

On January 1st, friends invited us to their home for a churrascada (cook out) for the noon meal. The night before we were at the church from 7:45 until 10pm, which we called our “watch night” service. We had a special speaker, Bro. Miguel F. da Silva. We wanted to get home before midnight, as this is the time that all the fireworks noise, drinking, and violence start. So we are thankful for all the blessings of the year 2005 and we wish for all of you readers a blessed year of 2006 with God’s many Blessings.

Let us all continue faithfully praying and giving and thus we will all be blessed. Give to BFM and you will be happy. Pray for us.

Yours in the Service of the Savior:

Harold and Marie Bratcher