April 23, 2004

Dear Prayer Partners,

April 11 was a day many of us sang songs of praise to our Risen Savior, but I wonder how many in
this world could not sing about this awesome truth. In Brazil, millions still do not understand the
true gospel. We will return to Brazil on May 31 to continue our work of spreading the true gospel.
Pray for laborers.

The first four months of 2004 have been busy. We have traveled thousand of miles visiting churches
in Florida, Ohio, New York, Rhode Island, and New Hampshire. Many of these churches are our
faithful supporters. We had the joy of reporting to each of these. We also visited several new
churches, and we had two new churches join us in our endeavor to reach the Brazilian people. We
had one church purchase several puppets for our children's ministry, and others contributed toward
items for our personal needs and the land for the church.

Helen's mom underwent a very serious heart surgery in March. We were in Florida, but Helen and I
were able to be there. She had five bypasses. She is recovering well despite a setback in the first
weeks after the surgery. We are so thankful we were able to be there for this difficult time. We
wish to thank each of you for your prayers for Helen's mom and us during this time!

B     The church in Monte Gordo is continuing to go forward. In February, several of the
R     teachers Helen trained presented Bible Clubs in three areas of the city. The results
A     were fantastic. There were twenty-three children who made professions of faith.
Z     Pray these children will be faithful and that their families will be reached for Christ.
I     Guaraci and Sandra have done a great job in our absence. We would like for them
L     to continue with us. We ask for your prayers concerning God's will in this matter.

We will be returning to Texas in May to get everything ready to return. We need to sell our vehicle
to be able to purchase a vehicle when we return to Brazil. Pray we will be able to get a good
price, and that God will direct us to the right vehicle in Brazil. Pray our things will pass through
customs without any problem. Pray God will give us power for this ministry He has given
us. We look forward to returning and going with zeal to reach and disciple the Brazilian for the
honor and glory of our Lord. Thank you for standing with us, and humanly making it possible for us
to go.

Received gratefully in the months of Jan., Feb., and March ___________________

                                                                                         In His Service,
                                       
                                                                                         Alton and Helen Smith