October 3, 2006

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

Please forgive me for not writing a letter last month. We were so busy enjoying the visit of my brother David and beautiful sister (“belle soeur” - that is how you say sister-in-law in French) Pennie that I forgot to write. When they left, it dawned on me that I had been dilatory in my duty. Thank you for your faithfulness in giving.

We did have a great visit with David and Pennie. They serve at the Igreja Batista da Chapada where David is Pastor in Manaus, Brazil. They had been planning this trip for several years and were able finally to set aside the time necessary to come. The trip took longer for their bags which arrived five days after they had left. One of the places we visited with them is an archeological site on the Mediterranean Coast. This settlement began before the Greek Empire. It was enlarged by the Greeks and later by the Romans. It was bustling city and center of trade at the time Paul wanted to go to Spain via Rome. It covers at least 100 acres and takes me back in time to the New Testament when I visit there. It was a blessing to have Pennie and David in our services. Our folks enjoyed meeting them and hearing the message David brought to us.

Besides David and Pennie we have had several other visitors in services and Bible studies. About three weeks ago we had three first time visitors in the same service. One of these is a friend of Joachim for whom we have been praying for some time. It is very encouraging to see the folks bringing others with them.

The neighborhood dinner that we mentioned in our last letter went very well. We had the privilege of meeting several new families. It also gave us the opportunity to share about our faith with one of the couples that we met. This family just recently moved into our neighborhood from Paris. One neighbor lady who was at the dinner asked Judy about the “masses” that we held at our house on Sundays. Judy explained to her that it wasn’t really a “mass” but a meeting to study the Bible and worship.

Our Bible studies during the week are going well. The one in Portuguese is one of these. The whole Correia family is very interested. The believers who come to the other Bible studies are having opportunities to share what they believe with friends and co-workers. We are also encouraged by the fact that the grade school age children in Sunday school are showing greater interest in spiritual matters.

Please continue to pray for us. We continue to sow the good seed with the expectation that the Holy Spirit will use it to bring to life those who need Christ.

Serving Christ in France,

John and Judy