Mike's Birthday (Surprise!)

Everything has a slightly bittersweet tinge to it this year, as we know it's our last year here in Guayaquil. The church had a big surprise party for Mike at our house.

Baptism

Pastor Juan, Jose, and Pastor Mike

Pastor Juan, Miguelito, and Pastor Mike

P. Mike, Sue, P. Juan Jose, and Miguelito

In October we had a wonderful visit from some of our favorite Quitenos--Maria Tiban and her three sons, Jordan, Miguel, and Jose. One of the highlights of the visit was Michael baptising Miguel and Jose. They are fruit from our first year in Quito!

Evangelism Home Run

Mike came home from evangelism yesterday and told me this story, "Richie and I went out to evangelize and we looked up to the second floor of this house and saw two people sitting at a table by the window. We asked if we could come up, and they said sure once they understood what I was asking. We climbed up the ladder-like staircase on the outside of the building and when we entered, four teenagers, a child, the mom, and the dad, along with a friend who was fixing the tv, gathered around when I asked if I could tell them a story.

I told them the story of the Prodigal Son and asked them to identify the characters. Then I explained the gospel, and asked who wanted to receive Christ. It was like they were hanging on my every word. Everyone prayed to receive Christ."

We Ask for Your Prayers

In May, just before we left for the states, we announced to the church that this school year will be our last year in Guayaquil. We'll be leaving in June 2012. Please pray for a pastor to be raised up for the church in Guayaquil and for us to know God's will for our future.

Last but not Least

We finished up our 6-state stateside tour in Maine. First Mike spoke at Pastor Waterhouse's church and then he spoke at Pastor Sheff's church on a missions weekend they were having. Jim Seaver also spoke about his trips to Cuba and Quito as well as Pastor Cannon who spoke about Haiti and Debbie Colby who spoke about Thailand. The Sheff's graciously loaned us a van for the New England portion of our trip and we greatly appreciate it.

Heading home. This is the challenging part. Fitting all my books in the suitcases. It's a good thing that Mike is a GREAT packer.

Family Reunion

The highlight of this trip was our family reunion with Mike's family. Here's a shot of Mike's immediate family.

The Vermonters Welcomed Us

As usual, we visited Pastor Harold Noyes church in Vermont, and it was twice the blessing that it usually is as we got to visit with Mike's Mom & Dad at the same time as Dad is working with Harold in the church now. We are so grateful for the support we receive--both financial support and prayer support--from this church as well as the friendship we have with Harold & Patti.