October 1, 2002

Dear Fellow Servants,

God has blessed in many ways this month. Among other blessings, He work through you to provide food, housing and ministry needs for us. We are very thankful.

He is also blessing the "seed" we are sowing here. With school back in session, the number of people coming to the Bible studies, youth meetings, Sunday worship and number of children in Sunday school has increased. We are delighted for each of these opportunities to give out the Word of God as well as others that take place impromptu.

Nathalie Elizabeth Hatcher, our second grandchild was born on September 18. It is a delight to have Philip, our son, and Amanda, our daughter-in-law working with us. Of course, we don't complain about having them live just a ten-minute walk from our house.

We were delighted that several young people responded to the challenge in our August letter. With each name I am including the answer given to our question: "Who was a person mentioned in the Bible that God used in their youth?" From Ohio: Ryan Gerig - Jesus taught in the temple at the age of 12. From Kentucky: Clarie Stephens- Christ Luke 2:40-48; Rebecca Smith- King David & King Josiah; Cindy Smith- Daniel; Renata Cox- Samuel & Ishmael; Jarrod Stephens- Samuel. You may have noticed that only two states are represented. So, for the rest of you (and these mentioned, as well), here is another challenge: Recently, two countries were admitted to the U.N., one very well known and the other that just became a country. What are the two countries?

This would be a good time to remind you to pray for the nations and peoples of the world. We are to make disciples of all nations and to pray to the Lord of the harvest to send out laborers. While praying, why not ask the Lord where He wants you to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ?

While praying, ask God to give spiritual hunger and thirst to the people of France. Thank you for your prayers and support.

With joy in Christ,

John and Judy