January 1, 2006

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

It hardly seems possible that 2005 is history. The beginning of a new year reminds us of our finiteness. It also reminds us of the approaching return of our Lord. During the past month we have enjoyed the visits of our oldest daughter, Laura, and Judy’s sister, Peggy. We are also thrilled with the arrival of Emily Christiane Hatcher, our youngest granddaughter. She was born the morning after we arrived back from the USA.

During our recent trip to the U.S. for the funeral of my father-in-law, a number of people mentioned that they pray regularly for us and the work of the Lord here in France. Many expressed concern for us because of the riots in France near the end of 2005. Thank you for praying for us. In a way, things like riots can be a blessing to the spread of the Gospel. Events such as these can be used by God to shake people out of their false sense of security. Many American Christians are unaware of the desperate needs of the people of France. To help you better understand the spiritual poverty of the people of France; allow me to share some statistics that I hope will grip your heart. Please, see that these numbers represent eternal souls; people who will spend an eternity in Heaven or Hell; people who could have been you if your ancestors had not moved to the “New World”.

In America…............. one out of every 9 people claims to be Baptist.
In Uganda (Africa), one out of every 673 people claims to be Baptist.
In India…………….one out of every 533 people claims to be Baptist.
In France…..only one out of every 7564 claims to be Baptist.

Over half of the people of France do not believe in life after physical death. They believe that you die like a dog.

This is why I was so excited when one of our neighbors stopped by a couple of months ago and asked if he must become a member before studying the Bible with us. This is why I was even more thrilled when he asked for something to read that would introduce him to what we believe. He has not yet come to a Bible study, but this week he again mentioned his need.

When we mention Bible studies, we are not talking about in depth discussions of esoteric points of doctrines. We are talking about reading the Gospel and answering simple questions. We have a passion to see the people around us saved. Only God’s Spirit using His Word can conceive life in the soul of one who is spiritually dead. God has called us to be witnesses, and we are delighted to be here.

Thank you for your prayers. Thank you for giving to enable us to be here. Don’t stop!

May God richly bless you during the coming year.

In France for Christ,

John and Judy Hatcher