Teen Meeting

Last Wednesday, two of the families in the church organized a get-together for the teens of our church and the downtown church. It was a great success. They played games, Bob shared the Word with them, and they ate crepes! What was the most encouraging to us was that the initiative for the meeting was completely theirs. There are so few Christian teens that it was good to see them enjoying each other. On Sundays, David and Audrey Ascher teach their class.

Repas Agape 2009

Last night we had our annual "Repas Agape." We were very pleased with the effort the students made to invite friends. We served 39, had 5 teens serving, and 3 ladies in the kitchen. Mark Nelsen, missionary pastor in La Rochelle, was the speaker. About 14 years ago, Mark and his wife were here while they studied French. Everyone enjoyed the evening immensely and we are praying that some come back tomorrow.

Special "Sunday School" Day

Yesterday we had a special day for all the Sunday School classes. We were very pleased to observe first hand just how effective the Sunday School training has been especially with the children. They really shone in their presentation of the life of Moses. We were gratefully surprised at their depth of understanding of Biblical truths about the wilderness wanderings.
For more pictures, go here!

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.