April 3, 2006

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

This morning’s news announced tornadoes in Missouri, Illinois and Tennessee. We hope that you were spared. The chaotic weather is emblematic of the chaotic condition of our world. The political climate here is France is chaotic. The Muslim world is in chaos. Christians are being persecuted in various parts of our world. Yet, I am glad to be alive in these times because we have the privilege of announcing the Good News of Jesus Christ to a world that is in desperate need of Him.

We were heartened by the news through Glenn Archer that Jim Orrick is recovering and we pray the Lord will give him strength and hasten his recovery. We are thankful for each of you who give so faithfully and for the directors who give of themselves enthusiastically and tirelessly to help us in the proclamation of the Gospel.

We are very encouraged by what God is doing here. Yesterday we had several who met with us for Sunday worship for the first time. Claire Bouquillon was here with her five children. This is her third time to attend in about a month’s time. Claire and her husband were the first people we met when we first moved to Tournefeuille. They have since moved to a small community further west and we have had little contact with them. Their five children are 6 to 12 years old. Nathalie, who used to live in the neighborhood and who attends regularly encouraged Claire to come. Yesterday she brought her children for the first time. Before this family moved away 3 years ago, we invested much time in them for Jesus sake without seeing visible results. So, it reminds all of us to heed the Word of the Lord through Paul, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

Another couple was here yesterday for the second time. A friend of Angela’s knew that this couple was moving to the area and put Angela in contact with them. They seem committed to coming on a regular basis. They also have a young child. With all of the children, both of our children’s classes are full as well as the adult class. We are thankful that the weather is getting warmer as this allows us to have the older children’s class on the front porch where we have more room than in the kitchen where they usually meet.

It is also very encouraging see those that have made professions of faith growing in the Lord and taking ownership of the responsibilities. The six Bible studies are going well and those participating are growing in the Lord.

The ladies of the church are planning a Vacation Bible School to take place the first week of May. The children here have two weeks vacation from school at that time before going back to school until the end of June. Pray with us for the outreach to children and their mothers. We hope that the Spring Missionary Conference next week is a great blessing to all who attend and that many attend. Thanks again for your faithful support.

For Jesus’ sake in France,

John and Judy Hatcher