February 1, 2005

Dear Friends,

Last month I told about one of our young preachers, Manuel Avila, being murdered. The response by so many of you from the States was such a blessing to Anita and me. His murderers have been brought to justice in God's own way. A band of four men had robbed and killed at least three taxi drivers (including Manuel). The third week of January they attempted to kidnap a lady from her home but failed in the attempt and stole her car instead. While driving the stolen car from Huanuco to Lima they had a wreck and two of them were killed instantly and one of them had to have his leg amputated in the hospital.  The other (the leader) was apprehended later after being dumb enough to return to his house in Huanuco. He is in jail. I thought you would like to know "the rest of the story."

I spent a week in the interior jungle town of Yurimaguas. Brother Daniel Castro has been working there for about twelve years now and doing a great job. Several works have been started and three churches organized since he began working there. His son, Benjamin, studies music here in Huanuco and lives with us. He is a real blessing to the church. We had two trust the Lord during the meeting in Yurimaguas. We had several from the Camponal Indian tribe in the services. They came dressed in their native Indian garb; very colorful and interesting.  I have to tell you about "Doggy," Pastor Daniel's cocker spaniel. "Doggy" is accustomed to laying under the front pew in the church building while services are being held. This little dog sleeps during the preaching but has quite an ear for good music. Each night as the congregation would sing or someone would sing a special, "Doggy" perked up and listened and actually would get a sort of smile on its face. But one night the youth group got up to sing and to be quite honest it was terrible! "Doggy" sat up and literally had a snarl on its face and during the second verse promptly proceeded to bark once and then walk out the door. I thought about following "Doggy's" lead but I stayed put and suffered through the rest of the song! We have five more days before we begin our "Summer Youth Camp." The church is excited and in full swing with making the preparations. Pray for us and the campers that God's love and grace will be manifested in all we do. I will give you a report after camp is over.

Anita and I thank each of you for your prayers for her health. She is doing 100% better and free from pain in her leg. She wears a back brace and also a knee brace and this seems to keep the nerves from being pinched and therefore the pain is alleviated. Thank you for your e-mails and calls expressing your concern. God has answered our prayers. Until next month.

Serving Jesus in Peru,

Sheridan and Anita Stanton

Sharing Christmas with Peruvian orphans.