News From Oaxaca

Day of the Dead

Earlier this month, the Mexican people celebrated the Day of the Dead.  This is similar to Halloween in some ways, but it has a much deeper spiritual connection in Mexico.  People build altars and decorate the graves of their deceased loved ones.  They will gather at their graves, eat the favorite foods of the departed and sometimes brings gifts or sing together.

This Day of the Dead is considered so repulsive by the Christian church that my Pastor preached an entire sermon against the evils of it.  She quoted the Scriptures, “Just as people are destined to die once, and after that to face judgment” and “He is not the God of the dead but of the living.”  (Hb 9:27; Mt22:32b) My pastor knows the danger of “playing” with spiritual things and wanted to warn us.

English Class

At the end of October, we concluded the English class at church.  Not only did the children come away with some basic English, but they also had the opportunity to hear key Bible truths about how to have a relationship with Christ.  Through the use of Bible stories and verses, fun learning games and other special activities, the students came away with a clear understanding of the Gospel. 

 

Maria had not come to church events before, even though my pastor had invited her family many times.  But, when they learned an American would be teaching an English class, they allowed Maria to participate.  Though Maria did not make a public decision for Christ, she did have the chance to hear the message of Truth in her time with us.  Seeds were planted and we will continue to pray for her.

Truth Seekers Bible Memory Club

Each week the kids crowd around me to say their verse, so they can choose a prize from our basket of goodies.  Many of the kids have made our Honor or VIP List for learning either five or ten verses so far this year.  One little boy, Carlos, jumps up and down while he says his verse and Rachelle, says, “YES!!” with an enthusiastic arm pump after hers.  Their excitement is contagious and entices others to try.

 

Oaxaca Christian School 

For a little more than two years I have been working at Oaxaca Christian School.  Getting to know the staff, families and the amazing MKs (missionary kids) has been a joy.  In December, I will be closing this chapter of my life and heading to language school for many months.  Being able to fluently speak the language will ultimately be the key to realizing the dreams God has put in my heart for ministry to those who need Spiritual Truth here in Mexico.  I know that God has great things ahead and I am looking forward to that, but at the same time, it is difficult to think of leaving people I have come to love.

Thank You

Thank you for continuing to pray for and financially support this ministry.  It is an exciting privilege to see God at work here in Mexico, but none of this would be possible without your faithful support.  Your obedience is bringing blessings to people thousands of miles away.  Thank you!