In these times of financial turmoil, we have been keeping this verse in mind, remembering that our father, God, faithfully provides for all our needs. Even as we look for ways to pinch pennies (putting in energy-efficient light bulbs, using our water heater less, eating more rice and beans) we know many of you in the U.S. are doing the same, and it moves us deeply that you continue to give steadfastly to our ministry with HCJB Global. Together we are investing in lives and we rejoice to know the dividends are eternal!
NATIONAL NEWS:
At the end of September, a majority of Ecuadorians voted to approve a new constitution, the 20th constitution this nation has had since it gained independence about 180 years ago. The new constitution is so large - 444 articles - it is unclear what changes will be immediate and to what extent they will be enforced. As new rumors swirl each day, we ask you to join us in praying for wisdom and integrity for legislators. No matter what happens, we know that God will never leave nor forsake us!
ALLIANCE ACADEMY INTERNATIONAL NEWS:Spiritual emphasis week occurs once a semester, and this September was one of the best yet. As Greg Collord, Dave's former Bible teacher, said, "It was low on hype and high on practical biblical content." We were especially blessed by a chapel service in which students were invited to pray for a teacher who had impacted them. We were both in tears as several students prayed over Dave, blessing him for pouring himself into their lives.
Student mentoring is blossoming as Dave spends at least three lunch periods a week connecting with several young men and Beth has started meeting weekly with one of Dave's female students. Please pray for these relationships and especially for healing for the young woman Beth mentors, as she struggles with multiple health issues.
CHURCH NEWS:
This summer, English Fellowship Church, where we attend, found itself without a regular music leader. Beth stepped up, along with two others, to fill the void, and is now leading worship several times a month. There is a lot of musical talent in our culturally, denominationally and linguistically diverse church, and Beth asks for discernment and anointing for herself and fellow leaders, Sally and Brad, as new worship teams are developed.
HOME FRONT NEWS:
Levi and Luke have been enjoying playing with each other so much that we decided to forgo preschool this year. Instead, the boys are attending weekly Bible Study Fellowship gatherings with Beth, as we study the life of Moses. It has certainly captured their imaginations, as we often find them playing with their doll, "Moses," and pretending to be his parents, Amram and Jochebed. Levi and Luke have also started the Cubbies program of our local Awana club.
Beth just finished Ecuadorian driving school and is looking forward to getting her license in the next few weeks. One step closer to wheels! If you would like to give to the car fund, please include a note saying so with your tax-deductible gift. Thanks so much!
Even as we enjoy building community here in Quito, we miss all of you up north very much! We love our friends! Please keep in touch!
