This week I exchanged e-mails with both the academic coordinator and the director of the Faculdade Teológica Batista de São Paulo, the São Paulo Baptist Theological Seminary (the main building is pictured here). The academic dean was wanting to know if I would be back for the Fall semester (actually Spring semester in Brazil, since we are in the southern hemisphere!). I had to tell them the news that, because of our support situation, we will not be returning on schedule. It is always encouraging to hear from our friends in Brazil, and to know that our contribution there to the ministry is important and appreciated. We are also encouraged that my courses are being taught by Brazilian co-workers and a fellow missionary, and that the work is going on without a hitch. God is faithful and his work continues to prosper! We have been encouraged this week also by the addition of a couple of new supporters, friends who have know us for some time and who have extended themselves in faith to join our support team. Also, one of our supporting churches has doubled their support commitment to us. Praise God for these blessings, pray with us that His will be done!
Steve
the years. Next Sunday we will be visiting another of our long time supporting churches, First Baptist Church in Bloomfield, NJ. It was at this church that we first heard Dr. Russell Shedd, our now "retired" colleague, speaking of the work in Brazil (though he is officially "retired" his calender is booked with ministry in Brazil for the next two years!). That meeting was one of the first "seeds" the Lord used to nudge us toward ministry in Brazil. It is humbling to look back and see how God has led through various circumstances to bring us to this moment in our lives. It is also encouraging, as we look ahead, with so many questions about the future, to know and be assured that he has a plan, that he is in control, and our part is to trust him.