July 31, 2003

Dear Faithful Partners,

We are thankful for each of you who take the time to read our letters in the Mission Sheets or online. We are glad that you pray for the work of the Lord here in France and in other places around the world where our co-workers are laboring. Your regular giving meets our needs as we tell the Good News. God will bless you now and later for you generosity.

On the 20th of July, we were encouraged by the largest group yet to meet for Sunday worship. Thirty people were present. Thirty is not an impressive number when compared to the 25,000 who live in this city or the 60 million who live in this country. But in a country where only 45% believe there is life after death it is delightful that in a relative short time 30 people meet together to worship our Lord and Savior, learn from His Word and encourage one another to love and good works.

We were a bit saddened by the departure of one of our most faithful participants. Ursula and her family moved back to their hometown in Bavaria, Germany. This lady was the first to come to a Bible study and has invited and brought many others with her during the past two years. "You changed my life", she said as they were leaving. We met her for the first time just two days after we had moved to this city. On that occasion, she said, "I was raised a Catholic, but something is missing in my life. If you ever have Bible studies, I want to come." This is why we are here. God gives life to those who are dead in sin and grace to those who are hopeless. 

Not all the news, however, is about departures. Another new family began coming this month. Angela, a young mother of two children, trusted the Lord not long ago through the witness of an Italian friend. A few months ago her husband began a job in our area and she was desperate to find a church. Just 3 weeks after moving into our city, the Lord caused her path to cross with that of Amanda, our daughter-in-law. Joachim, her husband, and their two children have come with her every week this month. We encourage you to pray for the salvation of Joachim. He has shows a great interest. 

There is a blessing within the blessing of this most recent development. Joachim and Angela are German and an answer to the prayer for a translator so that our German neighbors who have been coming can understand. God is perfect in all of His ways!

A continuing highlight every week is the Bible study that we have with Shantha. He is from a Hindu background, but is thirsty to know the Truth. He has now read and we have discussed about half of the New Testament and a couple of Old Testament books. 

So, that's our news about the progress of the Good News here during the past month. May God bless you as He has blessed us. We are grateful for your participation in this ministry. 

In France for the glory of Christ,

John and Judy