We had 7 people get baptized. First, I like the public testimony that it gives to people in the community. Second, I love that during the baptism, the church is singing and worshiping God. Lastly, the symbolism of letting the person be wholly immersed in water, being baptized into Jesus' death on the cross, and no longer being slaves to self or sin. When they are raised out of the water, they are raised into a new life in Christ and are with Him forever. Praise the Lord, and may His transforming power be upon each of them and us daily.
Leia baptism was very emotional. Her mother, who has been sick, has been evangelizing and praying that Leia would commit her life to Jesus. Leia finally came to accept Jesus, and one of our pastors told her that we were doing a baptism the next day. Leia said she wanted to get baptized. She came and with sincerity in her heart, got baptized. The next day her mother died, and her prayers were answered. Leia has peace, and we know that her mother is in the loving arms of Jesus and has peace as well.
This month at the church, we had our annual celebration of Children's day. Children's day is a holiday, and there is no school, and some businesses close for the day. The church had many games and activities for the children, followed by small teachings of the love of Christ. The kids played lots of games, danced, and sang. Camilly and Alyssa participated in the Children's day celebration as the ref for the tug of war matches. It was a big hit, and they loved it! Alyssa took one for the team. LOL
The girls are doing well and are participating more in the church worship band and helping in the children's ministry. Camilly is playing the keyboard for the teen worship band. She practices hard and does not want to make any mistakes. Alyssa has had some incredible experiences with the Lord in prayer. For example, we had a small group at our house, and a lady came with her husband. They have been half-hearted followers, and she wanted that to change. At the end of our time, she asked for prayer. Elba was praying for another woman, and Alyssa thought she would go over and put her hand on her and pray silently. Instantly the lady's back got healed entirely. She started praising God and gave Alyssa a big hug. Alyssa, nor anyone else, knew she had problems with her back, but God did, and He healed her. Alyssa just shrugged and said that she did not do anything. This is somewhat true because God does it all; however, we need to show up. The other night as well, Alyssa got to be a part of helping another teenager accept Jesus. We are super proud of our girls and continue to pray that they will always be faithful followers of Christ.
We appreciate your continued prayers:
· Please pray for our church, leadership, and congregation that we help people draw close to God as we navigate this time.
· The rejection of this virus from you, your family, friends, and to be thrown out of this universe forever.
· Please pray for Elba and I that we may hear clearly where to put our focus and energy in this next phase of our lives.
· Please pray for spiritual, physical, emotional and financial health for us.
Much love, Steve, Elba, Camilly, and Alyssa
