Writer's Block and God's Grace in Everyday Life

Hi friends! In the past two months I've attempted to write several blog posts only to be thwarted by a bad case of writer's block. Actually, I was simply having difficulty figuring out how to communicate both with honesty and a positive tone! And most of what was on my mind sounded very boring and mundane, not exactly glamorous testimonies and inspiring stories of missionary life. Of course, God has been working and giving us plenty of reasons to praise Him, but much of our time and attention has been consumed with mundane tasks that could bore you to tears or sound like whiny complaints.

But I have found motivation to write something because 1) I know you care and are praying, and 2) our baby will be born soon, and I'd rather face writer's block instead of sleep deprivation! I'll begin with the more "official" ministry-type news and then share more personal happenings, with some fun pictures to keep it light. :)

The Right Person, the Right Time

Fernando is coordinating a graduate-level, distance learning program for pastors and leaders. More people have joined the group, and they have been meeting weekly to study together, in addition to their individual reading and assignments. It is clear that God has prepared and gifted Fernando, particularly in administration and teaching, as an instrument for pastors and leaders to receive access to this training. He's also provided the contacts and materials. (Another group of students continues to meet quarterly in their second year in a more basic discipleship/church planting program.)

Construction Projects

Fernando helped oversee the construction of a kitchen and dining area where seminary classes are held. Before, the women had to use a less efficient kitchen, and students ate in the classroom or outside, depending on the weather. Now, the classroom space is larger, where the kitchen used to be, and a separate, more functional kitchen is available, including ample space for students to eat.

The larger classroom accommodates the growing number of students

Our village house project is moving along, and we're happy that the roof was just completed before the rainier weather begins in the next month or two. Although there were some unforeseen complications, Fernando is happy with the work done so far. He has had to keep track of a lot of details, from purchasing materials, to having someone get them across the river, to the actual building process.

How to cross remote rivers

 

Building Relationships in Our Neighborhood

Fernando has been helping some young men lead a story fellowship group in our neighborhood. He also has been getting to know more men and teenagers by taking them to play soccer on the weekends he is home. I continue to build relationships with women, especially those with small children, as much as Mr. J lets me as he runs up and down the street (!). Just between our house and the corner, I can say hi to neighbors in Garífuna, Spanish, and English (English-speaking islanders are another people group on the Honduran coast). People know we are believers, and we like to share with them as we have the opportunity, in actual meetings in our home or informal conversations.

Several members of the story team

The Dreaded "T" Word

I have written about the Spanish word trámite in a previous post. It refers to paperwork or a legal process, usually conjuring the idea of unexpected delays due to infrastructure challenges and systemic corruption. Fernando had to take our pick-up to another city to register it, thinking it would take a day or two. Two weeks and two round-trips later we were thankful and relieved the process was complete and that God gave Fernando wisdom and the right contacts to navigate through the different obstacles (supposed "extra charges" and delays) he encountered.

 

The Good, Bad, and Ugly

As much as we want to focus on what the Lord is doing and the positive aspects of life here, I will be honest about the less exciting and easy parts lately. For example:

• While Fernando was dealing with the pick-up truck delays, Mr. J and I got a stomach bug at home, and then I got a bad cold. When Fernando took a trip to the village, Mr. J got a 48-hour fever, and then we topped the week off with his 18-month shots, which gave him a fever and made him limp for a day or two.
• Pregnancy is going great, and we're in the final weeks. I always felt rather proud of how well I handle the heat... until now. Mr. J and I have had heat rashes, and I am gaining greater empathy for those who feel miserable and tired in hot weather!

Having fun cooling off in a nearby river!

• We had a few weeks of water outages, filling up water when it came on and hauling buckets to the kitchen and bathroom when it was off. As much as I told myself to be thankful for the water we did have... I didn't have a stellar missionary attitude on some of those days!



Where did the water go?

• My patience was tested in ridding out cockroach infestations while "nesting"; dealing with garbage pile-up and, after it was collected, clean-up while Fernando was gone (I'll spare the details of garbage issues/animals in the tropics); finding my best defensive driving techniques put to the test; and being caught off-guard by a few power outages.



A very short nap with the power off. Even Pooh was sweating! ;)

Probably the most frustrating issue was the big gap between my reactions and the attitude I would rather have had. It was a good reminder that only God's grace can fill that gap and that He is kind and patient with His children. (Having a toddler is giving me a greater glimpse into this!).

Mr. J and Pooh in a happy moment!

I also found myself upset that such trivial things bother me when others have much greater struggles. For example, the garbage collectors work with their bare hands under the hot sun or pouring rain for long hours and are not consistently paid. I hope God uses a kind word and cup of cold water to remind them of His love. I am sobered by how injustice and brokenness affect others. It is good to know God understands our conflicting feelings and keeps our hearts tender and compassionate.

The reason I share this is to show how challenges in everyday life reveal our human weakness and frustration, wherever we happen to live, and even when we feel immensely grateful for what we do have. As missionaries, we find great comfort and strength knowing you pray for us, not only for the big projects and dreams, but also for the everyday challenges that can wear us down. We want our communication to be centered on what the Lord is doing and His love for His people here, but occasionally it’s good to share with you what we struggle with and experience in day-to-day life.

See the waterfall?

Thank you for your love and support, and we’ll let you know when our baby girl is born!

Too Good to be True?

Seminary students met for the first session in this second year of their program in church planting and basic theology. They covered a lot of material as they studied Paul’s general espistles. Here are some of Fernando’s thoughts about how the Lord worked:

 

We had a full, intense week, and we thank the Lord for good health and the opportunity to share with our brothers and sisters. The times of worship each morning were wonderful: praising the Lord, praying, and reading His Word together directed our attention to Him and gave us unity in preparation for a full day of classes.

Something that particularly blessed me during our time was the reminder of who we are in Jesus and the countless benefits and privileges we have as His disciples, saved by faith. God has provided all we need to lead lives that are consecrated for Him.

However, some of the students struggled to accept the idea of God giving us salvation as a free gift that we do not have to work to earn. Several asked, "What about James 2:18?" This verse says, “But someone will say, ‘You have faith and I have works.’ Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.”

God gave grace to the teachers and, with patience and love, they reiterated how merciful God is toward us and that we are no longer guilty in His sight thanks to Jesus’ sacrifice on our behalf. We discussed how faith and works are not separated from each other and that it is illogical to regard one without the other. Believers are expected to do good works, not to be justified before God, but rather as an act of gratitude to Him for all He has done for us. When Christians carry out good works, they bear witness to a genuine conversion, a true faith in Jesus Christ.

 

We all were reminded of God’s great love and the hope we have in Jesus’ salvation and second coming. This hope strengthens us in the midst of life’s difficulties, which cannot compare to the coming glory in Him. We praise God for how He is working students’ lives as we study His Word together.

 

 

 

Best of 2014: I Never Thought I Could

We have been sharing a six-part blog series about some of the best parts of ministry last year. This fifth post is about education opportunities for current and future leaders and how this benefits their ministry work and personal development.

What Happened

Last year the three men Fernando has spent the most time discipling (see Part 4) began their undergraduate studies.

One reason young people in Honduras struggle with poverty and the temptation to get involved in unhealthy activities is lack of opportunity to study and work. Not only do they miss the chance to learn, grow, and make the most of years full of potential, this is a loss for families, communities, and the future of the country. As for pastors, most have to work in addition to their ministries, and more education usually earns greater respect from those they minister to. For these reasons, we feel it is highly important for young pastors and potential leaders to pursue higher education.

"I Never Thought I Could"

Some benefits of these three men's studies in their ministry work are quite obvious: computer skills facilitate documenting stories; advanced reading and writing skills aid Bible study; administrative abilities improve overall work performance; diligence and responsibility in their studies strengthens leadership.

However, perhaps one of the greatest gifts education has given them is something Wilber told me about recently when I asked him about last year's studies and this year's plans. Wilber is the first in his immediate family to study at a college level, and he really hadn't considered it until the opportunity was extended to him. You can also imagine that studying in one's second language presents unique challenges, as well.

But he said, "I love working on the computer, and I can't wait to learn more. I never thought I would like this kind of thing or even that I could do it!" Wilber discovered he was able to do more than he thought, and this is propelling him toward trying new things and taking new risks, not only in education, but also in leadership roles. In fact, by sharing his experience with other young people he could inspire them to do the same.

What Now?

Elvis, Alex, and Wilber have resumed classes after the holiday vacation and plan to study throughout this year. We would love to see more young people gain access to higher education for their futures and, especially, for the glory of God.


Coming up in Part 6: Wageira

Best of 2014: I Never Realized...

This post, the first of a six-part series about the best in ministry last year, focuses on the Garífuna Bible school classes.

What Happened

• Pastors and leaders from multiple Garífuna communities met four times throughout the year.
• Each session was an intensive week covering (1) church planting and (2) basic fundamentals of the Christian faith.
• Frequent discussions provided opportunities for questions and ideas about how to apply God's Word to specific scenarios among Garífuna people.
• Several students are using the basic fundamentals material to disciple church members and potential leaders in their own churches.

Helpful Hands, Servant Heart

One of God's gifts for seminary staff and students was Deiby (far right):

Deiby joined the team and contributed his gifts of service and administration, preparing logistical details such as housing, meals, and class materials. His work enabled Fernando and the other leaders to focus more on teaching and interacting with students. Deiby plays guitar and sings; he led worship during morning devotionals that focused everyone's hearts on the Lord to start the day.

Perhaps what mattered most what not what Deiby did but how he did it: with love for the Lord and people, and with a servant heart. Praise the Lord for his life and service to the body of Christ.

"I Never Realized..."

As students shared what they learned throughout the year, these three themes stood out:

• They realized they had misunderstood and, as a result, taught incorrectly parts of Scripture. Praise God they could honestly voice their questions, receive clarification, and discuss together how to improve their teaching of the Bible.

• While the term "leadership disciplines" brings to mind prayer, study, and ministry tasks, students were most impacted by the discipline of investing in their own families. Many realized that they were focusing on their congregation's well-being while neglecting to care for their own marriages, children, and grandchildren. They were compelled to take to heart how the Bible teaches that solid church leadership requires solid families and to adjust their priorities accordingly.

• "The Great Commission is about making disciples, and the best way to make disciples is planting churches." Participants realized that the common error of focus only on their own congregations, and they learned that church planting should be a central purpose of their churches.

2015: Plans and Vision

• Students will meet for another four sessions to continue studying church planting and fundamental principles of the Christian life.
• Our prayer is that young pastors and leaders will be equipped for and committed to planting churches and, consequently, reaching more people with the good news of Christ.

Praise God for how He worked in students' lives and ministries!

Coming up in Part 2: Which Story is Your Favorite?

Fernando's Trip Report

Dear friends, thank you for praying for Fernando's trip to the U.S. and for those who gave special gifts to cover the cost. Here is a report with praises for what God did:

BILD Conference: Training and Fellowship

Fernando attended the annual BILD International Summit in Ames, Iowa, for the second year in a row. Leaders in theological training programs around the world attend this event to receive classes, learn more about how BILD can assist their ministry programs, and hear about what the Lord is doing through BILD at an international level.

Fernando took two classes. One was about the leadership model of the New Testament church in Antioch, from which Paul and his apostolic team strategically spread the gospel throughout the Roman Empire. The other covered the essential teachings of the church: the kerygma, or message of salvation through Christ, and the didache, or the apostles' fundamental teachings in the New Testament epistles.

Class session

 

We praise God that Erick, a Garífuna pastor who lives in Houston, could attend the Summit for the first time and learn about how to train other Garífuna leaders in the U.S. He and Fernando enjoyed talking with people from India, France, Costa Rica, Guatemala, and many other countries. Not only did they gain information, but they also were encouraged in the work God has called them.

Fernando (far left) and Pastor Erick (far right) with other participants

Visiting Ministry Partners

Fernando spent several days in Minnesota to meet with prayer and financial partners. He shared at a supporting church, an excellent opportunity to talk about what God is doing and thank people for their role in helping the Garífuna church.


Garífuna Church in Houston

Fernando traveled back to Houston with Pastor Erick to spend time with his family and church. He gave the sermon at the Sunday service. It was a real blessing for him to spend time with them and see how eager Pastor Erick is to start teaching his church about the Christ and the apostles' teaching, as he learned about at the BILD Summit.


Follow-Up Praise

We thank God for providing replacement laptops for those that were stolen when our ministry office was robbed in September. Fernando, Alex, and Wilber are in a different office in a safer location. Thank you to those who prayed and gave special gifts to meet that need!


Finishing 2014

Garífuna Bible school students will meet for this year's final class session the first week of December. Pastor Mark will come and share again. You can pray for students' travels (more difficult in rural areas due to rainy season), for the Lord to speak into their lives and ministry, and for a strong finish to this year. Thank you!


Just for fun:

Baby J enjoying oranges, which abound this time of year

Catching Up: Good News, Bad News, and More...

Hello everyone! Between travel, sickness, and a laptop problem I got behind on blogging, so this post is an overview of the past month or so.

As for ministry news:

Pastor Training: Worship and Leadership

Pastors met for another class session. Pastor Mark, from the U.S., taught about Paul's letters to Timothy and Titus, addressing pastoral work. Pastor Eric, a Garífuna pastor who lives in Houston, held discussions. Fernando led the BILD International portion with texts and discussion about churches being a "family of families."

Highlights included rich times of worship first thing each day and a pastor thanking Mark for his teaching, saying: "I had been guiding my church the wrong." We pray that each student will be more prepared to follow Paul's example of investing in emerging leaders, like Timothy and Titus.


The Not-So-Good News: Robbery

Fernando has rented an office space where he, Alex, and Wilber can work, since we now live in a house that does not have an office area. Earlier this week, an armed man forced one of the guys to wait in the bathroom while he stole the laptops they use for working on the Garífuna oral story project and for their college homework. Although the the material loss was significant, we are thankful he is OK and did not resist the thief. We like to focus on the many good things about Honduras, but it is impossible to ignore the level and impact of crime here. We appreciate prayer for God's protection.


Prayer Requests: What's around the Corner

• We are looking for a pick-up truck for traveling back and forth to "Wageira" (pseudonym), the rural community where we live and minister. We praise God for His provision of funds and are asking Him for just the right vehicle, which would enable Fernando to travel more easily and oversee construction of the house.
• Fernando and several other Bible school leaders plan to attend the annual BILD International Summit, where they will meet with leaders from around the world and learn more about how to implement this program in their ministries. Please pray for those who need visas, for plane tickets and flight itineraries, and for a productive trip.

As for family/personal news...

Baby J's First International Trip

I took Baby J to see my family in Washington - his first time on an airplane and my first time traveling with an infant. We made it! Baby J enjoyed the kind attention of those along our way: other travelers, flight attendants, and even security agents. :) It was well worth the long trip for Baby J to meet his grandpa and great-grandma (who is almost 90). He seemed to enjoy the cooler weather and, of course, being spoiled by his grandparents.

He is now eight months old! He loves "dancing," being read to, and giving "kisses."

Women's Bible Study

The women's Bible study group I meet with in La Ceiba has started up again, and I am grateful for being able to study God's Word in English and learn from the other women, most of whom are older than I and share a wealth of experience as wives, moms, missionaries, and Christ followers. I've written about how this group has blessed and couraged me here and here.

Rainy Season has Begun

The intense hot season is subsiding into refreshingly cooler weather and more frequent rains. This means I hang laundry early and keep an eye on the clouds, take more precautions while driving on roads with standing water, and enjoy cooking our midday meals much more than before! :) This is the view looking out our carport gate toward the mountains; it's a good day for laundry... at least for the moment!

Thank you for reading our news and standing with us in prayer. Coming soon: two book reviews and our fall newsletter.

Connecting the Dots

"Where are we now? Where do we want to go? How do we get there?" These are the kinds of questions Fernando and the Garífuna seminary leadership team addressed this past week during strategic planning meetings. Several years ago, the Lord gave Fernando the vision to see Garífuna pastors and leaders receive ministry training, many for the first time, and He has faithfully met needs with his perfect and faithful provision.

For example, there was a great need for training materials and curriculum pastors could study and then teach in their own churches. God provided a link to BILD International, which offers materials for grassroots local church ministry all the way to college-level degrees. Fernando also needed others to help, and God has brought together a team of Garífuna leaders committed to the vision. God has also provided people with experience in theological training to help with teaching and planning.

One of these people is Pastor Al, who has used years of experience in the business world to help people like the Garífuna leadership team make strategic plans for implementing BILD. We met him on a ministry trip to Minnesota last year and were impressed with his kindness and heart for pastors around the world. Since then, Al and Fernando have worked together via Skype and email, and Fernando has in turn met with the other leaders. This week, Al came to Honduras to meet with them, and they addressed important questions and ideas for how to more effectively continue theological training and reach more pastors, who, in turn, can reach more Garífuna people with the gospel.

We praise God for how He has "connected the dots," providing connections to materials, resources, and -- most importantly -- people to carry out the work He has called us to. In the midst of great needs and unknowns, He is faithful. We also thank God for providing you, our partners who have joined with us in this challenge, and please pray for the Lord to give continual strength, clarity, and unity to this team as they take what they learned and apply it to their work.

Left to right: Pastor Jose, who trains people from churches in his home community and helps teach a new group of pastors (you maybe remember from this video); Pastor Eduardo, who leads a Garífuna congregation in La Ceiba; Elvis, who has assisted Fernando, especially while we were on furlough last year; Fernando; and Deiby, who recently joined the team by helping with administration and logistics for training events.

Praise Update

Thank you for your prayers for last week's Bible school classes with a new pastor training group! This time even more participants were able to join the group, and they were very encouraged with what they learned in classes and fellowship. The morning sessions were led by a very experienced pastor and seminary professor from Oregon; he taught about leadership. In the afternoon, a Garífuna pastor, who serves in Houston, led discussions based on students' questions and comments about the practical implications of what had been covered in the morning. We thank the Lord for how He worked in everyone's lives throughout the week and for all who served in various ways to bring the details together. Here are some pictures:

Thank you also for praying for Fernando's family, as two of his relatives were sick in the hospital. Both are doing better and have been able to continue recovering at home. It is always encouraging to share prayer needs and know you all are lifting them up. Thank you!

Fernando is preparing to meet with a pastor with extensive experience in strategic planning in the business world, as well as teaching BILD discipleship classes in a local church setting. Pray for this time to be fruitful and Spirit-led and that, ultimately, the seminary can even more effectively train pastors and leaders to reach and disciple more Garífuna people in the good news of Jesus.

Your Prayers, Please!

Hello, friends and prayer partners. I wanted to share a few prayer needs you can be lifting up in the next few days.

Next week a group of pastors and leaders will come together for classes. The morning sessions will be taught by a man visiting from Oregon, and the afternoon sessions by a Garífuna pastor who lives and serves in Houston, Texas. Here are some specific ways you can pray (in addition to however the Lord leads you):

• Pray for Elvis, one of the main seminary leaders, as he communicates with the participants, who will be coming from many different Garífuna communities.
• Pray for safe travels, good health, and God-prepared hearts for the students and leaders.
• Pray for Deiby, who is responsable for the administrative details (meals, lodging, etc.).
• Pray for Fernando as he coordinates the training and translates for the English-speaking teacher.

Also, two of Fernando's relatives have been ill and are in a hospital in La Ceiba. Some of you may understand how difficult medical situations can be here. If you think of it, please pray for continued recovery, for strength for the family, and especially for Fernando during this busy time. Thank you!

On a happy note, Baby is J is six months old! We are having lots of fun watching his little personality come out!

Reaching More Pastors and Leaders

This past week a new training group was launched through the Mua Buiti Garífuna seminary. Pastor Mark, from the U.S., who has helped with classes in the past, taught an overview of the gospels.

Pastor Mark teaching and Fernando translating 

 

Pastors José, Emilio, and Elvis, who graduated from the first series of BILD International training, led the BILD portion of classes. They are teaching the same materials they have studied and also used for discipling church members in their communities. Their experience helps new participants as they prepare to implement the same program in their churches, as well.

BILD training discussion groups

Alex and Wilber, the two young men who have been translating a more advanced BILD series into Garífuna and who are involved in the OneStory project, were among the participants. This was a great opportunity to learn more about God's Word and see how their translation work will be applied in similar trainings in the future.

Several leaders were a great help to Fernando with the preparation details. Elvis, a young assistant pastor in a Garífuna community a few hours from here, has been Fernando's right-hand man in the past few years, such as while we were in the U.S. on furlough last year. Elvis was responsible for inviting participants and providing them with information about classes. Deiby has helped as administrator, coordinating classroom and dormitory repairs, meals, and materials.
 
Pastor Mark will return in September, when the group will meet again to continue their studies. In the meantime, they will complete homework assignments and meet in small groups in their regions.

Thank you to all who have prayed for the Bible school and specifically for this new group of students. Please pray students and leaders, for commitment in their studies, for unity, and for wisdom and vision in applying what they learn in their various contexts.

Ministry Update (Finally!)

Hi everyone! We want to share with you what Fernando has been up to the past few months:

Garifuna Bible School Happenings

Fernando has been meeting regularly with several pastors who serve on the Garifuna Bible school leadership team as they plan how to support pastors who have started discipleship schools in their local church congregations. Fernando and the other leaders make arrangements to provide these pastors with BILD International materials and help them as they train others. The leadership team has also been laying the groundwork for a new training group for pastors that will start in a nearby Garifuna community next month.

• Pray for each pastor who has started a discipleship school in his church and for the church members to attend, for God's Word to be firmly established in their hearts and for godly leaders to be raised up.
• Pray also for the pastors who will form the new training group next month, for a strong commitment, for excellence, and for the Holy Spirit to work in their hearts.

Discipleship at Church

Fernando has been teaching a discipleship class at church. While the lead pastor continues to work with a group of adults he was teaching last year, Fernando meets with youth, many of whom are seekers or new believers, learning biblical truth for the first time. Using the discipleship materials that were translated into Garífuna last year has been a great help.

• Pray for these youth to understand, receive, and live out the Word of God as they discover who Jesus is and how to follow Him.

Discipleship and Translation Training

God has bridged two needs to form a wonderful opportunity for Fernando. One need is for another series of training materials to be translated into Garífuna. The other is that many youth are unable to find employment. We praise God for an office behind the house where we are living, where Fernando has invited two young men to come during the week. They read the Scripture in Garífuna, study the discipleship training materials in Garífuna (same as mentioned above), write in Garífuna in response to what they learn, and also do some translation of texts. By strengthening their reading and writing skills in Garífuna, not only are they becoming prepared to translate, but they also are learning more about Jesus and His Word. We hope this is just the start to including even more youth in the Lord's work as He allows.

• Pray for both of these young men to grow in their faith in this process, for them to do excellent translation work, and for the materials they translate to be a great blessing to Garífuna pastors in their studies and as they teach those in their churches.

House Construction Update

As we've shared with you, we feel God leading our family to a Garífuna community, *Wageira, for pastor training and church planting in that region. Fernando traveled to Wageira in January to get the building process started. Before building, sand is collected from the nearby river to make cement. We thank God for the start of this project!

• Pray that as this house is built, God will prepare a home where our family can share the good news of Jesus with others.

Two Months Old

Today Baby J turns two months old! I'll share more about him in the next post, but here's a picture of our sweet baby boy:

Thank you for your prayers!


*pseudonym

Minnesota Trip

Happy November, friends!

I just returned from a trip Fernando and I took to Minnesota. He is currently in Iowa at the annual BILD International conference, the program being implemented in the Garifuna seminary. We'll share more about that when he returns to Washington later this month.

The picture below shows a very special couple, who invited us to Minnesota to share about our ministry with groups and individuals they know. They have been closely connected to the Wycliffe missionaries in Honduras who coordinated the Garifuna Bible translation project, so Fernando has known him since 1992. Since then, this brother in Christ has played a highly influential role in a variety of projects, including starting a scholarship fund for pastors, leading teams to Honduras who have built homes for pastors and widows, and linking several missionaries to those who have supported them. He also is on the pastoral staff of a very missions-centered church, where the BILD program is also used.

He planned a very productive time for us, scheduling about ten meetings and speaking engagements. We also learned a lot from him about fundraising, as he is gifted and experienced in this area. We hope to follow his example in advocating for others and wisely administering resources for the advancement of God's kingdom. It was a gift from the Lord to get to know him better and learn alongside him.

The next picture shows Fernando sharing at a church missions night. There were tables representing countries around the world where the church supports missionaries, and the enthusiasm and commitment to the Great Commission on a global level was palpable and motivating. Fernando did a great job sharing (according to others, not just me!).

A special part of this trip was visiting my mom's cousin and her family. We spent two nights with them and shared at their church. It was fun to get to know them better and talk about what our families have in common. I also enjoyed the beautiful farmland and cornfields where they live, getting a taste of a part of the U.S. I hadn't seen first-hand. We went to a high school cross country meet, and they brought us extra layers since we are not quite used to the cold!

We are thankful for:

• The hospitality and advocacy generously extended to us during our trip. Thank you to all those who drove us places, made meals, and took time to learn about our ministry.
• Your prayers for safe travels, good, health, and stamina. My pregnancy symptoms were much lighter than usual, and I was surprised by how much energy I had!!

Please pray for:

• The people we met with to follow God's prompting as to how to support pastor training and church planting among the Garifuna people.
• Fernando's time at the BILD conference: for good networking with other participants and leaders and for clear vision as to how to further pastor training in Honduras.

Binilaün Bungiu súngubei! (God bless you all!)

Good News from Honduras (written by Fernando)

"Teach them his decrees and instructions, and show them the way they are to live and how they are to behave." Exodus 18:20

 

"What are you doing?"

Moses thought that Jethro simply wanted to know what he was doing. So he proceeded to describe his work, his unending responsibilities, and all of the activity that revolved around him. Actually, Jethro had already observed these things and instead wanted to communicate this message to Moses: "The way you are working is harming yourself and these people."

Then Jethro told Moses how to improve for his own good and also for the good of the people. What he most needed was to "teach, train, educate, and instruct" so that the people themselves would know how to act and what to do, instead of depending solely on him.

 

 

Several weeks ago I (Fernando) had the joy of seeing pictures of Garifuna seminary students, our brothers and sisters, graduating after completing their first level of theological training. It was also encouraging to hear how much this event meant to their lives. Some shared that they cried for joy, and others told us they had never graduated from anything before in their lives, and it was truly a great blessing to be a part of that experience. I am convinced that these small steps ("Studying the First Principles" series) will help the Garifuna church leaders "show [others] the way they are to live and how they are to behave."

 

 

 

 

I do not completely agree with graduations in theological studies; I am convinced that theological training should be an ongoing and lifelong process. However, reaching this point is good for reflecting on the journey thus far and for recognizing once again that God has been faithful. My brothers and sisters went through countless difficulties: family conflicts, illnesses, ministry conflicts, and more. But they have persevered, and praise God because He never leaves us to walk alone, and He has shown His faithfulness to these students, His children and servants.

 

 

"Those who sow with tears will reap with songs of joy. Those who go out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy, carrying sheaves with them." Psalm 126:5-6



Bible School Classes: Habits of the Heart

Hi friends! I hope you have had a good week. We have had a busy week with BILD classes here in La Ceiba.

As some of you know, the Garifuna Bible school has pastors and church leaders who meet for one week of classes about every three months. Baptist and United Brethren leaders have also been involved. This group began about a year and a half ago, and they first studied a series on Acts. Since September, they have been taking the four-part First Principles series, covering fundamental areas of the gospel and discipleship. Starting this year, some students have begun implementing the First Principles program in their home churches and communities.

This past week we completed the fourth and final part, Habits of the Heart. We studied and discussed Scriptures related to spiritual disciplines, not only in an individual sense (such as personal devotionals), but the biblical basis for habits as families, church families, and members of our communities. A core theme was the biblical motivation behind cultivating disciplines, out of a loving response to all Jesus is and has done for us, and the importance of growing together as families and congregations.

John, originally from Canada and now living in Honduras, facilitated discussions. 

Discussions were held in small groups and also with the whole group. 

Times of prayer are more meaningful now since participants have developed friendships over time.

Participants are encouraged to now begin the second series, which focuses in greater depth on God's plan for households and church families. They will meet for the first session in September and also celebrate the graduation of those who completed the first series during this past year. Sadly, Fernando and I will not be in Honduras at that time, but we look forward to continuing with this group when we return to Honduras later this year.

Please pray for these godly leaders to be diligent in their studies as they prepare for classes in September, and for unity and wisdom as they train leaders through this discipleship program.

I will soon post an update about a OneStory workshop I am helping facilitate. Thank you for your prayers and support; we are thankful for what you do to make all of this possible!

Two New Training Groups

Hi friends!

Thank you to all who have prayed for Fernando as he has helped coordinate new training groups through the Garifuna Bible school, using the BILD International training method. We invite you to praise God with us for what He has done and continue to lift up these new leaders and participants in your prayers:

La Ceiba
Eduardo, who pastors the church where we have served here in La Ceiba, has also begun discipleship classes using this method, and about 20 people are currently participating. We have heard positive feedback from those who have said they are learning new things about the Bible and by engaging in discussions about how it relates to their lives.

Corozal
Elvis, a young assistant pastor from Río Esteban, has shown great commitment in his studies and has also been an invaluable aid to Fernando. The last weekend of April, Fernando and Elvis launched a training group in Corozal, a community near La Ceiba. Ten pastors and leaders attended the first session of the BILD program, but about 18 total are expected to participate. Elvis will continue leading the group when Fernando and I leave next month.

Limón
Last month David, José, and Félix launched a group of 12 participants in the community of Limon. You can watch video clips featuring David and José.

Punta Piedra/Cusuna/Ciriboya/Iriona Viejo 
This past weekend, Fernando took a trip to the more rural communities east of here, near Sangrelaya, where he is from (posts about Sangrelaya: here and here). On Saturday, he and Gabino, Nahum, Lidia, and Emilio launched a training group for these four communities. We praise God that 30 people came and more are interested! You can see pictures of Lidia and Emilio and a video of Gabino.

Fernando said it was encouraging to see how the materials in Garifuna were quite helpful; people enthusiastically participated in readings and discussions. Most people in that region are fluent in Spanish for education and work purposes, but it is much more natural and meaningful to communicate in Garifuna, particularly with respect to spiritual and personal matters. These four communities are home to several churches, but most pastors and leaders have not received theological training, so we look forward to how the Lord will use these studies to help them grow as leaders and train others.

Please pray for each of the leaders who will be leading participants in the content they have already studied. Pray for them to have unity, lead in the truth of God's Word, and have perseverance as they lead this new group.

• La Ceiba: Eduardo (20 participants)
• Corozal: Elvis (18 participants)
• Limon: David, Jose, and Felix (12 participants)
• Punta Piedra/Cusuna/Ciriboya/Iriona Viejo: Gabino, Nahum, Lidia, and Emilio (30 participants)

Next week we will have the next session of Bible school classes with the group of leaders who have been studying during the past year together. Since our last session in March, we have studied individually and in small groups the material to be covered next week. Please pray for safe travels from their communities, for those who will be facilitating, and for the Lord to work in our hearts and prepare us to disciple others.

Thank you for joining with us through your prayers and support!

Two Reasons to Celebrate

This week we had two reasons to celebrate. One was the completion of the first series of BILD materials:

The manual includes four books, each with sessions about important fundamentals of the Christian life. Three believers translated part of the manual, and Fernando translated another part, revised everyone's work, and meticulously proofread. In spite of the tedious work, he often commented about how the material itself was impacting his life!

The hard work will pay off when 30 of these manuals are published this week and then distributed for new training groups in Garifuna communities.

We are happy that several people have started translating the second manual, and we hope that all of this will be a tool in God's hands to disciple His people and prepare them to make disciples, as well.


The second celebration was Fernando's graduation ceremony for his Master's in Business Administration degree. He finished his coursework and thesis two years ago, but his bachelor's degree in Bible had not yet been approved by the government in Tegucigalpa. (These things take awhile...!) On Friday, he attended the graduation ceremony required to receive his diploma.

I remember how hard he worked during his graduate studies and still dedicated time to starting the Garifuna Bible school, so I am proud of him! I am also thankful for the ways God has allowed him to study what has helped him a great deal in ministry (management, finance, strategic planning, etc.). May the Lord continue teach and use Fernando so that others can learn about the Lord and receive preparation to serve Him.

The Church's Mission: Bible School Classes (Mar.)

This week Garifuna Bible school students met in La Ceiba for the third session of classes in the current BILD International training program they are taking (the first session was in September and the second in December). Fernando has been coordinating the general logistics of the program and, specifically, the Garifuna pastors and leaders who participate. Pastors from Baptist and United Brethren churches also are participating.

This week's topic was about the purpose of the church: evangelism, discipleship, and establishing churches. Students had studied the Bible passages and exegetical information in the past few months, and they also had met in small groups in their regions to discuss the information. Pastor Felix, who has been facilitating classes during the past year, also taught about leadership formation and how to continue to grow as leaders while helping others develop, as well.

Several students volunteered to lead discussions with their peers in preparation for teaching new groups forming in their own communities:

Tia Lidia, from Cusuna, where a new group will soon start

 Pastor Emilio, from Punta Piedra, who will help start another group

We could see that participants were encouraged to see each other again and share what God has been doing in their ministries and personal lives. Several talked about how God has worked in their hearts and families since the last time they met, when the topic was about God's design for individual families and His church to be a family. Others told us that they have begun to teach this same program to potential leaders in their own communities and churches.

Pastor Castrillo shares about his experience in the program, how God is helping him start a training group in his community, and how we can pray for them:

We are thankful to see their commitment not only to learn and grow as ministers of the gospel, but also to train others in understanding, teaching, and living out God's Word.

"Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another -- and all the more as you see the Day approaching." Hebrews 10:23-25

 

Please pray for: 

• Pastor Castrillo and the others who will start teaching, that the Lord will give them wisdom, unity, and vision as they begin training new leaders.
• Fernando and Elvis, who will be coordinating and supporting those leading new training groups.
• This group of students as they continue studying and prepare for classes in May, that they will be diligent in their studies and led by the Holy Spirit.
• That the Lord will raise up leaders who are faithful to His Word and to the Great Commission both in Honduras and beyond. 



Thank you for supporting this program through your prayers and partnership, not only investing in these servants, but also in those they minister to!