Reason enough for Thanks

Jim leading a full-day “catequetical retreat”!

In our last newsletter we asked you to pray for new adult believers who were beginning to learn about Lutheran doctrine. As the group progressed, they decided they wanted to pick up the pace and spend a whole Saturday studying God’s Word. So, Pastor Jim lead a workshop called “Knowing God” from 9 am to 5 pm where there was time to delve into the catechism! Praise God, 11 people participated! As a result, we have 5 people who are ready to get confirmed, 2 adults who want to be baptized, and 2 more who are thinking about becoming members! Plus, there is a 13 year-old studying the catechism and a few others who want to continue studying. Praise God for planting the faith in these people! And THAT is reason enough for thanks!

Members and friends doing the “Luther Rose” craft after the service.

Celebrating the Reformation!

Did you know that October 31 is a national holiday in Chile? Since there are multiple Catholic holidays throughout the year, in 2008 the government named October 31 as the official PROTESTANT holiday. Another law says if a holiday falls on Sunday, you automatically add either Friday or Saturday. Therefore, this year, Reformation Day fell on a long weekend and MANY people in Santiago left the city to enjoy a mini-vacation on the coast. However, we were happy to have 37 people in worship on Sunday!
With the sanctuary adorned in red, we celebrated the re-birth of the Scripture-based, Faith-founded, Grace-driven church. There were Venezuelans, Argentines and Chileans present so our music reflected this cultural mix. Yes, you could hear “Castillo Fuerte” (A Mighty Fortress) resounding from our tent walls as well! You also heard the Bell Choir accompanying worship. Click here for a sample!
The congregation planned an afternoon of fellowship with a meal of Arroz con Pollo and a “Luther Rose” craft. A neighbor, who visited church for the first time, said he didn’t know there were Christians close by who had a Reformation Service. We pray that he accepts our invitation to come back! And THAT is reason enough for Thanks!

Music makes the World go ’round!

Fortunately, on the mission field there are plenty of opportunities to use those gifts. Once a week she does “music therapy” at Casa Bethesda. It is amazing to see how music touches these students and allows them to express themselves, to explore new things, and to unite them as they make music together. Click here to hear a recent performance of Beethoven’s Ode to Joy and find another REASON for giving THANKS to God!

To learn more about James and Liisa Tino, click here to read their latest newsletter!