We are finally getting over our jet lag and the children are adjusting well. Thank you for all of the prayers and extra love offerings; we can’t tell you how much they mean to us! A special thank you to our home church, Fellowship Baptist Church in Maryville, TN, and our Pastor Tom Hatley. They have been behind us 100 percent since before we even started deputation; and they gave us an incredible send off service. It was definitely a night we will never forget.
We have been asking for prayers and support for our visas for months now. We are extremely happy that this phase is finished. Of course we will not get an answer immediately. It is now a waiting game but we can stay in country as long as they are reviewing our applications. This is a huge blessing because the longer it takes them to review it doesn’t matter we are allowed to stay in country until they give us an answer. We have faith that our God will meet our needs. Please continue to pray that the home affairs will be kind and accept us on the first try.
Now that we know we can stay in SA indefinitely we will take the rest of December and get the rest of our house furnished and set up. We will be ready to begin language school in January and help in a local church that has already been established here in Port Elizabeth.
We are very thankful for the Mark Coffey, Kevin Hall, Jeramy Hall and Stephen Underwood families who have graciously taken time to welcome us and help us during this transition. They have bent over backwards for us and we greatly appreciate their help. Please pray for these families as they continue to service God in their own ministries and church plants.
Although it doesn’t feel like it to us (80 degree weather,) Christmas is upon us! We pray you have a blessed holiday season with your families and church families. We are eternally thankful for the gift of Jesus Christ, our reason for celebrating each and everyday!