December 23, 2001

Dear Friends,

Thank you for your cards and letters at the holiday season. Your expression of love and support are a great encouragement to us.

Alta is almost one hundred percent healed from her knee and leg problem. She is still battling against the terrible cough. It is almost like whooping cough. She does show some improvement after almost three months. Tests show that she does not have any problem in the throat nor in the lungs. But, she still coughs. Due to allergies to medicines she cannot take any cough syrups. Please pray for her.

The year 2001 has not been one of great numerical growth. All of the different missions continue with regular services as well as special Bible schools at vacation time.

SEMINARY GRADUATION: On December 15th, at ten o'clock the CENTER OF THEOLOGICAL STUDY AND EVANGELISM had the graduation exercises for twelve students who received the Bachelor of Theology degree. Seven of these were from the branch in Garca and five were from Cornelio Procopio. All of these are active in the ministry and some care for two and three congregations. There are new students planning to study in 2002. Among them is a doctor and his wife. Dr. Renato and his wife, Gabriela, are new Christians and zealous in their newfound faith.

PRAY FOR LABORERS: The fields are white unto harvest. Many doors are open. We need more laborers. Pray for us that God will give us wisdom and physical ability to complete the race in the will of God. Fatigue is my greatest battle and there is no let up.

Next month I hope to send you some photos of the Graduation Exercises. God bless you and thank you for your prayers and support.

John and Alta Hatcher

Eight young men who have been saved in the work of John and Alta Hatcher at Santa Terezinha.