So 2019 is upon on and 2018 was wrapped up in the blink of an eye. We had a positive end to a busy year and, actually, it wasn´t too frentic. The workshop took a few days off (here, the official holiday tends to be just 25th December itself and New Year´s Day). The talented team continue to create, recycle and revamp various items, all in the name of learning.
Our current apprentices Jose, Robson and Junior are doing well. We appreciate your prayers for them in their personal battles.
As a kids club team, we tried something special for Christmas by inviting the parents along to see what goes on on a Saturday morning, to hear a talk, watch 2 powerful dramas and share some food. We weren´t too sure how many parents would come because many people work here on a Saturday morning, or those at home may not be early risers. Our decision was that we would go ahead even if one mum came along to here the Good News. However, we were thrilled when a good number attended. Many folks were visibly moved by one of the powerful evangelistic sketches the team performed.
We had a day out in December with most of the teams from the project. We used one of our volunteer’s dad’s house to have barbecue lunch at relax in the swimming pool.
The church performed its 2 annual Christmas choir concerts with the children and adults singing, dancing and acting the true Christmas story into our hearts in the two weeks running up to Chrsistmas.
It has been good to be back at our small group meetings and see the group opening up a bit more. No photos as I never remember to take one- will try to tonight!
We are grateful that God continues to provide for all our needs, in that we were able to find a great car at a bargain price at auction. (Not much chance I was doing the school run and supermarket trips in the big van!) Also, with a few changes of folks moving in and out, we have been able to allow José and Robson to have a kitchenette to share. Lusione also has a place to stay while we are still in her old house until our new place is available.
The English course has returned from the holiday break and we have a module on movie genres. I am ever grateful to Carmen for providing excellent material and continuity while we were in Scotland.
We have done quite a bit of research and have decided on a new school for Antonio which he will start in a few weeks.
All in all, all systems go at Instituto Engrenar, church and personal life. Roll on lots more challenges and blessings in 2019.
Daniel and Linsey 