New Year's Eve

Almost every year, we have a time of fun and fellowship with the downtown church on New Year's Eve. It is always here because our location is better for the late hours! We start with games, then supper and then a time of testimonies, exhortation and prayer. Several years ago, one of our students (Laetitia) told us about a tradition that they have in her church in Alsace. Since that time, at exactly midnight, we all go outside and sing "A Toi La Gloire"--or Thine Be the Glory. It is a wonderful way to start the new year. It is also our prayer for 2009-- that all we do and say will be for His Glory!

Visitors!

One of the joys that we have here in the ministry is the occasional visit from students who have been here in the past. This month, we have had two such visits.

This week we are hosting Albert and his family. Albert is dutch and was here as a student several years ago. His Christian family is a delight to have here.

About two weeks ago, Laetitia (on right) came back for a short visit. One day, we made a trip to see Jeanine and her family. The two girls were great friends while students here. They are both very special young ladies.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas to all of our dear friends. Thank you so much for your faithful love, prayers and support that make our ministry here possible!

The Newborn King--Cantata 2008

Last Saturday we had the Three Church cantata. We did Soundforth's "The Newborn King." It was lots of work (translating, etc.) but it was worth it all. There were almost 90 people in all there--25 in the choir. Many unsaved people. Bob talked to a 77 year old man who said that the message afterward by Florent, young pastor at the Right Bank church, really spoke to his heart. Please pray for all those who heard the real meaning of Christmas.
Some special facts: Although Sylvia Christy was the main pianist, two teen boys each played one piece. It was good to see so many teens participating (7, I believe!). Florent is the pastor of the Christy's church but he was actually saved as a teen in our church many years ago.

Annual Student Christmas Party!

We were 18 last night for our annual student Christmas party. We had raclette for supper and played some games around the tables. Then Bob shared a Christmas meditation before we had our traditional "white elephant" gift exchange. It was an enjoyable evening--especially since Laetitia Anstett is back to visit for the weekend. Many of you know her since she has been to the states with us.

Girls' Night!

This evening five girls came over to help me decorate our Christmas tree. We had pizza and then decorated. We then sang some Christmas songs and had a time of sharing. The girls are (from left to right)--Alex (English), Lianala (Madagascar), Laetitia (Congo), Prudence (French) and Sonna (High School age--Korean). They enjoyed finishing up the chocolate fondue from the Ladies' Tea, too! (Bob is at the Bible Institute this week--thus, the girls only party!)

Christmas Tea!

Today we had a Christmas Tea for ladies and girls. We had 22 who came for the afternoon. Besides lots of yummy cookies, we had a chocolate fountain. It was the first time that many of the ladies had seen one--and they all loved it!! We had a great time together. We did impersonations of the 3 woman in the Christmas story for the devotional time. The 3 actresses did a wonderful job and Ando was great in "pulling it all together." Since we are studying woman of the Bible in our Bible study this year, we hope that we sparked some interest for future meetings.