February 24, 2007

Dear Pastor and congregation,

Since our return to the mission field in September, our activity has been non-stop. The Lord is working a great work here in Southern Brazil, with our church planting process entering into it's final phase. We are working toward the goal of having the Fundamental Baptist Tabernacle become a completely autonomous Brazilian church during this term of service on the field.

Since our last prayer letter (which is extremely overdue; please forgive me), a great development has taken place. The Lord has supplied the work here with a Brazilian couple to work with us. Wendel and Renata graduated in December from Bible Seminary, and are integrating well into the church family. It is our hope and desire that Wendel will become the pastor of this church here in Caxias do Sul. The love and acceptance that they are receiving from our church people show us that the goal is on track.

It is obvious to us, however, that the devil is not happy. We've seen several trials and attacks on the church and congregation, including a literal 'stoning'. Praise the Lord, however, that the stoning was not on a person. It was an attack on our van which we use for the church work. A confused, distraught youth of our church vented his frustrations out on the van in an attempt to get at John. He tried to find blame in John's preaching for the problems he was having with his girlfriend. He has asked forgiveness and, after a two month absence from church, is returning with a good attitude.

Over the last four months we've seen eight professions of faith. Included in this count are two men, three ladies, one teenage boy, and two adolescent boys. We had a baptism planned for this weekend in a large stream at a park, but the weather has not cooperated. The baptism is being rescheduled for March.

In November our church here began a new work in the central-southern part of Caxias do Sul. Rafael and Flavia have been faithfully sticking it out, though the work is going very slow. A major hindrance to the work is the lack of time that they can dedicate to the ministry. Bro. Rafael has a full time job, working Monday through Friday from morning to evening. His heart is in the work, and is seeking the Lord's will in several major decisions. Please pray with them concerning their ministry, and that they will have the faith and courage to follow God's will and calling upon their lives.

The Bible Institute in the church is going well. We now have three students studying two nights a week. John and Wendel each teach one course at a time.

Our prayer requests are as follows:

Since the first of the new year, we've seen more increase in our financial support! This is in answer to our prayers expressed in our last letter. We are now close to having the full support we need. Please continue to pray that our support goal is reached. We thank all who have chosen to help us out in our support and also with our special projects.

Until He comes,

John & Neila
Joneia, Leila, & Katherine

Mission Agency: World Baptist Fellowship /  P.O. Box 13459 / Arlington, TX 76094-0459                 Phone: (817) 274-7161