December 2, 2005

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

When I mentioned Thanksgiving in my last Mission Sheet letter, little did I know that Judy and I would have the privilege of being at the Thanksgiving Conference.

On November 7th, Jim Foster was transferred to Heaven. Judy and I were able to make it to funeral and have spent a busy four weeks in Kentucky, Ohio, Michigan and Indiana. When I married Judy nearly 33 years ago I was blessed in becoming part of this family of people who loved the Lord and who were actively serving Him. Jim Foster served many years as a faithful deacon, first in First Baptist Church of Grayson, Kentucky, then in First Baptist Church in South Shore, Ky. He was a model deacon and Sunday School teacher, but will probably be remembered by nearly everyone who knew him as a person who visited the sick and needy. And, many knew him because his visits were not limited to those of his church. I was amazed by his tirelessness.

In the Fall of 1974, when I was still "wet behind the ears" as a young pastor, I was given the delightful responsibility of giving the charge to the candidate for ordination to pastor. The candidate was none other than my father-in-law Jim Foster. During the 30 years he served three churches as pastor. The fruits of his labor continue in lives of those that he touched; especially his daughters, grandchildren, and myself.

Being able to attend the Thanksgiving Conference was also a special blessing. We were able to fellowship with many that we have not seen in years. Pastor Terry Adkins and all of the wonderful folks of New Hope Baptist Church did an excellent job of making us feel welcome and at home and the preaching was excellent. We want to especially thank each one who gave to help meet the expenses of the sudden trip home. Thanks, David Parks, for giving up your slot on the schedule so that I could preach. During our stay in the States we have also been able to visit several churches. It was a blessing to be in Evansville briefly and see how God is blessing Emmanuel Baptist Church.

We are thankful that Judy's doctors gave her rave reviews. She has been cancer free for five years.

Meanwhile, back in France, a couple of the young believers have stepped up to the place to help in the Sunday School classes. It has been a blessing to see their rapid growth in the Lord. The lady who hosts the evangelistic Bible study of Romans in the city of Mazere wrote to say that one of the ladies who came had some questions about what we had said about the justice of God and that her heart seemed to be more open.

As you have read, we have so much for which to be thankful. This is only the tip of iceberg. May the Lord bless you as you begin the new year.

Thankfully in Christ,

John and Judy Hatcher

Nathalie and sons. Part of congregation in Tournefeuille.