April 21, 2008

Newsbrief

It is with a mixture of grief and joy that we write. Tim’s 96-year-old mother, Faye Boyle, passed away on April 15. It was not unexpected, given her age, but she “knew where she was going” and “whose she was,” so we can rejoice that she is in a glorious existence now.

Tim is scheduled to attend the Make-A-Wish International conference this week in Orlando, Florida, and since he had scheduled a three-day stopover in Minneapolis to see Lisa (who recently began work there as an acupuncturist and herbal medicine doctor), the plan is to take a quick side trip to Phoenix for a memorial service on April 28 at 2:00 p.m. at Central United Methodist Church, her home church. Tim will preside at the service and give a memorial tribute to his mother. Lisa will also be present in Phoenix to represent the family. Juji and Jennifer will remain here in Japan, as the expense and difficulty of journeying separately make that the best option.

Juji is doing okay medically since her last treatment session in February and March. There are, however, still some issues with medication levels that are taking some time to sort out, and so this is another reason not to risk a quick trip to the United States. As always, your prayers on her behalf (and for the rest of the family) are appreciated.

Another bit of family news is that Jennifer has been accepted to a one-year study program in art at “Studio Art Centers International” in Florence, Italy.  She has been working hard for the last couple of years to save her money for this program and will attend the 2008-2009 school year there, earning a graduate degree in art. She is excited about her upcoming adventure (as are we). She plans to gain experience and hone her considerable art skill, which she hopes to be able to use in some form of ministry here in Japan in the future.

Love,

Tim and Juji Boyle

The 2008 Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study, p. 104