Summing up January

It has been my intention to blog on what has been going on since we dug back in to our ministries three weeks ago. However, there was always an issue of time or not feeling inspired or overwhelmed with trying to think of how to recap everything and the excuses continued. I am determined to fill in some gaps for you and will try to organize my thoughts by subject. (Be warned: this might be long!)

ESL Classes: resumed on January 13th. Many students returned enthusiastically, however, there was still room for more in all 4 classes that are being offered. The following week we redistributed flyers in Caselle and are once again at capacity level, except for the middle school level. We are very encouraged by this ministry and the doors of opportunity it has given us to know people in the community.

CineForum (Film Night): We held our first film night of the year on January 23rd. This ministry continues to be received well and provides a unique opportunity for discussion. Jonathan had one of his students comment that for him it's not so much about watching a good movie, it is the discussion following that he enjoys with everyone. Our first film night back in November brought 17 people and this most recent one brought 8. At first Jonathan was disappointed but it turned out to be just as great as the discussion allowed for more intimacy and participation in a smaller setting. So big or small turnout--we see this as a profitable ministry that we will continue to do on a monthly basis. This last time brought marriage and the roles of men/husbands to the table for discussion.

Ladies Gathering: We resumed meeting on January 18th. We meet at a home here in Leini' on Mondays. I have been blessed by the simple fact alone of just being with other women on a regular basis without kids! Sometimes there might only be three of us and other times we might have six women. I am really praying that more women will be able to join us regularly as all of them are unable to attend our Tuesday night Bible studies. Each week we study what was taught the previous Tuesday night. It is our attempt at trying to keep everyone on the same page and growing as we study the same things, even if it takes two separate venues to do so. Please continue to pray for my growth in the language. It is so frustrating to want to express something and then get tangled up on how to phrase something. The ladies are very patient with me, but I've got lots and lots and lots of room to grow!

Bible Studies: We resumed on January 12th. We started out with a night of looking back on this past year and looking ahead to this coming year; noting growth areas, points of praise and where we would like to see ourselves in another year. We then completed the second part of study that Jonathan began in December. We will leave our study of the Gospel of Mark for 7 weeks to focus on "Who we are" and the mission and identity of our church. It might be a little American to have this high emphasis on vision, mission, identity etc. but we believe it invaluable to giving our people unity, focus and clear direction as we look to start our church services soon. Maybe at a later time I'll be able to post our 6 points, visually demonstrated with arrows and how they identify who we are.

Reset (Evangelical Cultural Center): is nearly ready to soon host church services. We are currently trying to find a solution to create a more sound proof barrier between the two rooms instead of the current barrier of curtains across an arching doorway. A "must fix" so that the kids will not be a distraction during the services. Sheet music has been copied and we are working on organizing our first worship team practice. We are very blessed in our small group with gifted musicians. Our goal is to do a "trial run" on March 21st and then have our official "Kick-off" service on Easter Sunday. Lots to get ready in the meantime!

Miscellaneous: In addition Jonathan has preached at a sister church this month and will be speaking to the youth group this Saturday.

Family: With the above schedule and prep time needed for each ministry you might be wondering if we have any time left for each other or family. This year we have made it a point to carve out one night a week for a "Family Fun Night." The kids highly anticipate Friday nights for us to be able focus completely on having fun together. So far it has always included a game and something special for dinner. One time it was McDonald's and another time it was making homemade donuts together. We are looking forward to some warmer weather to get more creative on these nights. Samuel suggested pizza and a museum. At six, I never would have thought a museum could be fun, but he apparently has gotten accustomed to them and enjoys them. Jonathan and I also will get one date-night in a month. It may sound pathetically insufficient but it's better than what we have done in the past. Sitters are not in abundance for us to call upon which is the big drawback from not living near family.

Health: Let's just say, we have had better months. Emma has missed at least one day of school each week because of illness since being back to school. I have had to stay home the past two weekends from church because of a child's fever. This week all but Jonathan has been hit by Strep throat along with the kids battling influenza--fevers, cough, runny noses and sore throats. Just today the kids and I all received antibiotics. Praying for a healthier February!

I think that about sums up the major happenings...I told you this would be long! Next month I promise to stay more on top of things. Thanks as always for your prayers!