June & July

But godliness with contentment is great gain.

1 Timothy 6:6

Our recent visit to Ohio was a sweet soak-up-family-time kind of trip.  It´s was so refreshing to just get to enjoy people - without too many deadlines.   One of my goals was to see as much of my siblings as possible (love you guys!)  It´s always hard to say goodbye after visits.  But wherever we are, whatever we´re doing, with Him as our God, how can we not be thankful?  (Now my homework is to enjoy people just as much WITH the deadlines!)

Just before the Ohio trip, we had an unexpected mission group come in!  They were just here for a few days, but it was really fun for us.  We always love involving young people in ministry and showing them the city.   Our main ministry day consisted of visiting homes of kids from Twist Kid´s Club and praying for the families.  It always amazes ME to get to be a part of extending God´s love in such a simple way.  We know from the debrief that it was impacting to them as well.  

Left: Damaris (Mateo) and Sergio, Ixtapaluca Twist Kids´ Club directors 
Right: Mother (and daughter) whose husband had just passed away.

One other day event we had before Ohio was ministering "family day" at this Christian school.  Students and parents united for the day in various activities.  The lesson presentation we facilitated focused on the value of asking for forgiveness (especially parents to their children). 

Here´s a little Ohio spotlight :) 

One highlights: an early first birthday celebration for Malakai.

(Not this picture, but during our visit we got to celebrate my Grandma´s 90th birthday with almost all the family from Dad´s side.)

Upon return - Xaume and our friends Ale & Lalo led this church's first children's worker training. We're very proud of Ale and Lalo stepping up to facilitate. The pastor, Fernando and his wife Miriam are especially enthused to reach the young generations.  In fact, the church is called "New Generation in Christ."

Proud to announce Twist Kids' Club Ixtapaluca (#1) celebrated their two year anniversary!  Hard to believe. They've been very faithful through thick and thin.  Pray for continued renewal in each volunteer's life and especially for the church pastors Paty and Juan who just moved to the neighborhood (they'd previously commuted every weekend to the area.)

Two years meeting almost every Saturday morning!

And...thanks to a special donation, we got treat Twist Kids' Club Chalco (#2) teachers to pizza and new t-shirts at this training seminar.  Pray specifically for each one to protect his or her personal time with God and to bring that reality to the kids. 

The month's close has been filled with writing, planning and coordinating upcoming events (kids' conference at Conquering Frontiers church and youth leader seminar in Leon Guanajuato).  But we also had a special invitation to each speak at Grace, Love and Communion Church's youth camp.   

Oh! And finally, here's Liam participating in one of the VBS activities at Twist Kids' Club Jaltenco site.  Pastor Gerard and Sharon had to switch facilities due to a difference of opinion, but we were glad to see kids coming!

Learning to be thankful everyday... 

Thank you for loving us and believing in God's call for our lives. We believe in each of yours.