It’s not too far, it just seems like it!

The search is on again for land or building for church. We’ve looked at a few, but have seen how prices have gone way up since this all began over two years ago. Although we have some money on hand now, good, visible properties continue to be out of range. It is good to know that nothing is impossible with God!
There was no “day off” this past week, but in the end it was worth it. Along with regular weekly ministries, much of Friday was spent setting up for a wedding…well, really Sue helped with all that. While she and the bride and groom were working inside, I spent the time doing touch up paint on the front of church, and making sure my workers were finishing the installation of air-conditioners in the last two classrooms upstairs. Yea, they’re in! So no more “sauna Sunday school” for the kids!
The big event Saturday night was very nice. It was a memorable time for the bride and groom, and the ceremony a great testimony of their faith in Christ. There was a lot more crying during the service than I'm used to, but then, I didn't have to lead the service either. Things were kind of unorganized at the reception, but people from church generously pitched in. This being the first wedding held in the new building, it was a learning experience for everyone involved. We wish Marco and Juliana all the best!

Sunday, I wasn’t sure how the service would go, as I was having stomach troubles all afternoon, and the congregation is much larger, but we had a great study of the prophecies about Jesus’ birth with a lot of group involvement.

In the past when we had kids at home and lived closer to the ocean, it became a family tradition to celebrate Thanksgiving with a few days at the beach (with several American friends). The holiday isn’t recognized here in Brazil, but Thursday evening we are going to celebrate Thanksgiving with folks from the small groups we lead. We trust you have a great Thanksgiving!