Hard to believe that it's already 2009! We hope that all are doing well and staying safe amidst the crazy weather...
We wanted to tell you a little bit about our congregation here in Ecuador, Corales. The congregation is constantly in flux with ones moving in and out, so it's hard to get an actual count of Publishers, but it seems to be around 120?? The attendance is always well above that number because there are lots of kids and lots of Bible studies. In the weeks leading up to assemblies and conventions all the elders are busy after meetings going over the questions for baptism with different ones. It seems like every other week they are announcing a new publisher. The territory is very small and they work it about every three weeks. So it's amazing to think that there is still that much growth!
What has impressed us the most are the kids. Several study and come to the meetings without their parents. One example is Jose. I believe he's 8 years old. A couple in the congregation found him door to door. He was home alone with his two younger sisters. It's not uncommon to find kids home alone here because both parents are working. That's the case with Jose's parents. Both work full time and when they're not working they're out drinking and partying. Sometimes he has to take his sisters out late at night to go look for his dad to make sure he's ok and alive. At this time his parents aren't interested in studying, but they're happy to let the kids study since it's free childcare. The couple who studies with them comes to their home to help them get dressed for meetings. Jose just joined the school. Most of the children in the congregation will answer straight from the paragraph, but Jose comments in his own words, beautiful comments. They are such an encouragement to the congregation.
We've been told that a lot of the growth in this area is from ones who studied or learned the truth when they were younger and are coming back to it. It's a good reminder that God's word is alive and can have a powerful effect on a person at any age.
Here are a couple photos from our congregation. The first one is of Jose and his sisters...
That is really encouraging. What adorable kids! I'm sure they love having you with them for a time. Keep up the good work! We're all proud of you. -w&k
ReplyDeleteCan you bring a couple of them home with you? They are so beautiful, as are you both:) Miss you.
ReplyDeleteThat is unreal. I guess it really shows why Jehovah is waiting to bring an end to this system, so little Jose's can come in. Thank you for the updates. Its great to follow your experience. I talked to Dave the other day and they leave for Spain on January 28th. They are super stoked. Talk to you soon.
ReplyDeleteI got a bit of a tear reading that one, it's so amazing to get to hear about experiences like this when we're going over so much information about working the field and keeping in expectation! We love you guys so much and really miss you.. can't wait to see you when you get back. keep up the updates.. i love em! :)
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