Celebrating God's Goodness

The end of October Naty and I had the privilege to go to Rome to represent the International Church at the International Baptist Conventions Annual Meeting. While we were there we continued our work with the missions committee and we were excited to learn that there will be a new relationship forged between the convention and the Baptist Union of Moldova starting this next year. This was a thrill for us because of our heart for and investment in the Republic of Moldova over the years. For quite some time we have been praying that God would open doors such as this to assist in the work in Moldova. Now once again it appears as though the Lord is opening a very significant door of opportunity to make a profound difference in the lives of those that we have been given the opportunity to serve through the years in Moldova. We ask you to pray along with us that God will bless this unique relationship between the International Baptist Convention and the Baptist Union of Moldova. Pray that it will bear much fruit for the glory of God and his Kingdom.

Naty, her dad (a Moldovan Pastor), and I sharing with the
convention about the new relationship with the Baptist Union of Moldova

Naty and I enjoying a moment of relaxation in Rome

In November I was given a unique opportunity in Moldova. We were invited to come and participate in the baptism of new believers there. This is always an exciting opportunity, but this one was different than before. This time I was asked to not just give the message that night, I was asked as well to actually baptize our new brothers in Christ being baptized that night. It was a very encouraging evening for both Naty and I and we pray that God will now finish the work of grace He has started in each of their lives (Philippians 1:6). Please pray for each one baptized that night, pray that God will raise each of them up and use them for the glory of God in Moldova.

Baptizing one of our new brothers in Christ

On December 10th the International Church once again hosted its annual Christmas Celebration. It was a thrilling night for everyone involved. Over the last months of the year we have seen a significant amount of numerical growth at the church (praise God!). As a result we were excited to see a full house the night of the 10th. Over 30 children participated in our children's Christmas program. In addition, we also enjoyed special Christmas presentations from our brothers and sisters from many different cultures; Romania, Indonesia, Nigeria just to name a few. Many who attended brought guests with them who were introduced to the gospel for the first time as they heard the true story of Christmas. We are prayerful that the seeds that were planted by this evening will bear much fruit in the future.

IBC Christmas Celebration 2011

Naty and I want to take a moment and thank each of you for your friendship and partnership through the years. You have proven to be one of our greatest blessings as we count our blessings this Christmas. We pray that God will make known to you and yours his rich and abiding presence this Christmas. May God bless you all and we wish you a very Merry Christmas and a very fruitful New Year!

Merry Christmas to each of you!