It is with mixed feelings that we are back in Troy. On one hand, we are glad to be back with our families and friends. We missed them immensely over this past week. It is amazing how different Ashleigh, Riley, and Kyleigh looked to me when I saw them in the airport yesterday. It was so great to spend time with Jennifer and the kids on the ride back from Atlanta.
On the other hand, we miss the people of the D.R. They are so open and receptive to you. They are willing to engage in conversation, well as long as you have a translator with you. They are a very warm people. The church, Iglesia Bautista Pena de Horeb (where we ministered during the week) has such a passion for our Lord Jesus Christ. They have a desire to see Him glorified, honored, and praised. They want to see their city, San Cristobal, won to Christ. It was a joy serving with them all week long.
God allowed us to accomplish many things for Him this week. We were able to complete our part of the construction project plus some extra duties. We received an offering for the project and with that offering they should be able to continue right along with the project. The pastor is hoping to begin having services there in December. We all can pray for them as they strive for this date.
The Vacation Bible School phase of the week was a great success. We touched many lives through VBS. We shared the gospel with elementary and high school age kids. There were even a few gentlemen who were in their 70s who attended a few days. I am not completely sure of the exact number of salvations, but it is around 30 people. God transformed these children's lives through His Word.
The prayer walking and saturation (door to door visitation) phase was a wonderful time witnessing the power of God. It was a great way to interact with the community and discover areas for potential ministry throughout the city. I know of two ladies who trusted in Christ as a result of this ministry.
One of these ladies is named Bilyesia. When we met her, we discovered she had burned her fourth and fifth fingers on her right hand while cooking one day. We asked her if she would allow one of our doctors to examine it, and she was willing to do that. Dr. Bish and some of our team went by her house for the examination, and he was able to provide some medical care to her. During this examination, we invited her to join us in worship on Friday evening at the church. She and one of her children attended worship and before worship began that evening. She trusted in Christ as her Lord and Savior. Our praise service began before the corporate praise service began.
There are so many more details that need to be given, and we will deliver a team report in the coming weeks. We need to once again thank you for praying and supporting us on this mission trip. We were your missionaries this week. May the Lord bless you as you continue to support missions in giving, going, and praying.
Serving Him with you,
Luke
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