December 1, 2003

Dear Friends,

Just a few days ago we concluded three important events: classes for our resident students, an intensive two-week course for our students doing their internships in their various fields, and graduation of the Mission Training Center’s third class. This year we held our intensive courses at a church camp, which gave the students the opportunity to relax between classes and also gave us the chance to promote some special events: a Thanksgiving dinner, a “Praise Luau,” a baby shower for one of our teachers and also a commemorative dinner for our 25th wedding anniversary. This last one was completely planned and carried out by our students. The cook, Eliane is the woman in red below.

Saturday the 29th, was graduation. Our students have different challenges before them. The couple on the far right below is moving back to Florianópolis for further studies. Enos, the one in the middle, has already seen such an increase in his congregation that this coming year will be a preparation for the coming of a pastor, which would mean that he’ll be starting work somewhere else. Gilson, on his left, has been pastoring a small church and counsels chemically dependents. He will be treated for hepatitis this next semester, something he has postponed long enough. Please pray for him and his family, especially for the baby, due in February.

Elisa, on the far left, also has health problems in her family. Geraldo, her husband is a carpenter and is waiting for a decision about an early retirement, due to job related injuries.

Our other two graduating students are Elizane and Lucas (not shown). Elizane has worked among the Caiuá Indians for two years and is returning to her post. Lucas will probably be directing a congregation in Minas Gerais, going home after about seven years. His mother, Rachel, was beaming with pride during graduation.

This month we celebrate our Silver Wedding Anniversary. It is hard to believe so much time has gone by. God has blessed us abundantly and we are very thankful. We thank all of you for your constant support, for your prayers and for your friendship. May God bless you during this Advent Season and in the year of 2004.

Yours in Christ,

Marta & Tim

The 2004 Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study, p. 146