February 2007

Dear friends,
          For some time now, Heather has experienced serious health issues that have as yet been unidentified by medical tests. After counseling with our Pastor, Missions Director, and other colleagues, we have returned to the States to allow Heather to be further evaluated and seek treatment. We are renting a small apartment in Maryville, Tennessee owned by Victory Baptist Church. It is close to Heather's physicians and we are able to participate in their worship services. We are grateful to Pastor Rob Hoffman and the people of Victory Baptist Church.
          Heather is my priority; however, I will need to visit some churches while in the US. If you need to reach me, my cell number is 540-429-6892. I am available for any questions you might have and will be more than happy to visit with you. I am so grateful we are a part of your Missionary family. Your prayers and support are essential to our family at this time. Our ministry in Nicaragua is in good hands and we are excited about returning to the field as soon as the Lord allows.

          Before leaving Nicaragua, God allowed us to take part in a very special event.
          Our neighbors’, daughter, Francina, was married in the Cathedral.  With nearly 200 spectators inside and 500+ outside, it turned into a major event. And who was that gringita (literally, little foreign girl- I know, sounds harsh, but it is quite endearing) walking down the aisle in front of the bride? Moriah! She was invited to be a part of something so very special. Francina has visited our worship service a couple of times and Ladies’ Bible Study with Heather. Pray for Francina and Cesar in their new life together.

          As a little “goodbye” before we left Nicaragua, Francina’s parents took us to dinner. Martha told us that while she is Catholic, she is concerned that her kids will not continue to be so. She shared that being Catholic is part of her identity. Martha continued, “I give you Francina and Cesar. They need to make God the center of their lives and they should be involved with your ministry.” Please pray for Martha for she is very sick with cancer. Pray for her salvation as well.