Baptism, Building Blocks, Training and more.....

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News from IBBE (2018 church plant):  Three adults were baptized and a group of 10 are working through our new members’ class. Two babies were born, and two church members were married. This new year also brought a renewed excitement for discipleship and evangelism as several members work to expand our current ministries. In addition, we have 15 families signed up to participate in our partnership with the orphanage and soon the kids will start attending Sunday morning services while building a relationship with the family that “adopted” them. Each of these families will invest in and disciple one of the kids from the orphanage. 

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News from IBBE church construction:  After much prayer and several meetings for “bids” on the first stage of our project, we have contracted a builder. The land has been cleared of all trees, and the initial markings are in place. Tim is overseeing the project, and Andrea is organizing the finances. She also started a campaign with our church to help buy the bricks needed for the auditorium. They are excited to have a part in their new church building, and we have challenged them to sacrificially give. This rainy season brings significant challenges on Sunday mornings as the tent is now moved to an improvised location where water blows in and runs all along the dirt under the chairs. Prayers are appreciated.

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News from church planting training: 

Tim taught on church planting at an all-pastors’ conference in January and will teach at a regional conference with several hundred in attendance in April. With his doctorate now complete, Tim will also teach church planting as a part of a master’s level degree at a new partner seminary in another region of Brazil.

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News from newest church plant:  Tim established a strategic plan to guide this new church plant, and we have started mentoring a young family as they begin training and hands on experience planting this church with our team. Our focus is on mentoring the 3 main couples planting this church. About 10-15 members from the community form their core group of believers. This year a large emphasis will be on reaching into their community and sharing the Gospel.  

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We have reflected much on the fact that 5 years ago this week, Tim was desperate for a bed in an ICU as he was critically ill with covid. God graciously spared his life despite medical professionals believing survival was near impossible; however, God’s work was not complete in us. He continues to teach us as we live with the physical repercussions of that illness. We are immensely grateful for His sustaining grace and strength in our lives. What a journey it’s been!

Thank you for your partnership, prayers, love, and support. We wouldn’t be here without you. Tim and Andrea

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