The Joy of the Lord is our Strength...

"He Knows my Name"

Tonights theme for Barry and I is the Joy of the Lord is our strength.

We are sitting here at midnight (3 hours past our bedtime). We are totally exhausted physically but invigorated spiritually. Today was a full day. Betty and I baked cookies, scones and brownies most of the day for our tea this evening. It was a real blessing how the women here in Brazil all pitched in and helped us. Even with the language barrier, everyone worked in one accord and it all came together as God orchestrated the day.

The men worked together helping to set up the area for the tea for us along with the barbecue for the men. The unity between the two countries and cultures is totally phenomenal.
The Lord brought everything together so beautifully. Betty and I each shared a portion of our testimonies and then Ron came down to play his violin and accompanied Betty and me as we sang a duet of "He Knows my Name". God blessed Betty and me as much as He blessed the women at the tea.

The men reported that they had a great time at their barbecue. They each were able to share their testimonies also and had a great interaction with the Brazilian men.

We cannot even begin to relate as to all the love of God that is poured out on each of us each day from all the people here. We feel that we are at home with family and friends. It is like one big family here. People are welcoming us into their homes and sharing with us. There are no strangers here. Just friends that we are just meeting for the first time.

Everyone is preparing for what Phil has asked us each to do for the services today (it's already morning). Please continue to pray for us. We feel your love and your prayers daily.
I am going to close for now.

God bless everyone, He sure is blessing us.

Charlotte

Breakfast at the Warkentien's

The ladies of Iglegia Batista set up twenty beautiful tables.

Last minute preparations for the tea....baking & Ron consulting on music

How they light the Bar-B-Que in Brazil!

A job well done, by John, the neighbor across the street and church member.