“Put on your swimsuit and lifejacket, jump in the kayak, and let’s head for church!” We paddled through the waves to the next island, arriving soaked but with a healthy glow. After a quick change of clothes, we arrived at church and were transported into God’s presence by the a cappella blending of voices lifted in praise. How delightful to worship with our Tongan brothers and sisters, even if we couldn’t understand the language! This was one of many highlights of our recent visit with our daughter Elena and her husband Mark who are serving in the Peace Corps.

Gustavo, Asa and Pedro are just three of the young adults who comprise the Praise and Worship Team at Igreja Batista Reviver in Belo Horizonte, Brazil. Their guitars, along with the piano and drums, help us to all to lift our voices to the Lord in worship (in Portuguese, this time!). 

And how different this is from the energetic, passionate worship I experienced in Guinea Bissau in West Africa where our praise songs were accompanied by the talking drum and much dancing and hand clapping. 

Look at the incredible diversity in just these three snapshots of the worldwide family of God! For [Christ] himself is our peace, who has made the two one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility. (Eph. 2:14) 

YOU are a part of this great worldwide fellowship! Please continue to pray for us, for International Ministries and for our missionary colleagues around the world as we share the good news of the transforming power of the gospel. You are a vital part of this world-wide outreach in Jesus’ name. Though you already do so much for us, please encourage your church to generously support the World Mission Offering that supports the ministries of IM and our fellow missionaries. Obrigado! (Thank you!)

Louvando o Senhor contigo, (Worshiping the Lord with you),

Ann, Bruce, and Asa