Dear Racine Bible Family,
While the fact that it has been over a month since our last letter of update may be reason enough to write, what prompts me today is gratitude and humility at the outpouring of generosity that we have received from you. We received news of the most recent gifts of financial support and are overwhelmed at the abundance that you have shared with us. We know, too, that the gifts of prayer support are as effusive and heartfelt as the financial giving. Thank you.
After a very busy last week in the States during early September, we arrived here as a family on Saturday, September 10. The church’s welcome that first Sunday was warm and even Ellyn began to make friends! Our first week here involved little more than catching our breath and acquainting ourselves with the local grocery stores. Since then we have begun taking steps toward making Tegucigalpa our home.
As of this writing we have settled on a place to live that is secure, fits our budget, and even provides access to a playground for Ellyn—a rare find. The house provides sufficient space for hosting small gatherings. Since we have temporary use of a house until late in October, we will likely not move for a couple more weeks. Besides, most of our belongings are still in transit from the US. (Your most recent support will likely cover the shipping expenses). Yesterday we took possession of our own vehicle. The use of borrowed cars and home greatly relieved the stresses of this move.
After a very busy last week in the States during early September, we arrived here as a family on Saturday, September 10. The church’s welcome that first Sunday was warm and even Ellyn began to make friends! Our first week here involved little more than catching our breath and acquainting ourselves with the local grocery stores. Since then we have begun taking steps toward making Tegucigalpa our home.
As of this writing we have settled on a place to live that is secure, fits our budget, and even provides access to a playground for Ellyn—a rare find. The house provides sufficient space for hosting small gatherings. Since we have temporary use of a house until late in October, we will likely not move for a couple more weeks. Besides, most of our belongings are still in transit from the US. (Your most recent support will likely cover the shipping expenses). Yesterday we took possession of our own vehicle. The use of borrowed cars and home greatly relieved the stresses of this move.
Debbie has been welcomed into the circle of women at the church most specifically through the weekly women’s Bible study. Many have offered to help in various ways. Not surprisingly we have received many lunch and dinner invitations and so are getting to know the congregation better each week. Through one such invitation Debbie was invited to join a group of moms who meet weekly for a Bible club of sorts for their children. Once we are more settled Debbie is looking forward to participating. Most of the participants are bilingual so it may provide an opportunity for her to practice Spanish as well as build relationships.
In most things at church (including preaching!) Stephen still feels new and a bit awkward. Sunday School and Men’s Breakfast both began recently and some fellowship events have been scheduled for the weeks ahead. Attendance has been consistent though rotating so every week it seems that there are many unfamiliar faces in the congregation. This impression is lessening with each week. Much of Stephen’s work at this point is sermon and lesson preparation as well as administration with just a smattering of more hands-on shepherding.
Virtually every aspect of the transition thus far has gone very well. That said, we must admit that we tire easily and still have a great deal more to learn. Nevertheless, we have every confidence of God’s presence with us and the encouragement of your support and affection. We look forward to more updates soon.
With the affection of Christ,
Stephen and Debbie Jenks
In most things at church (including preaching!) Stephen still feels new and a bit awkward. Sunday School and Men’s Breakfast both began recently and some fellowship events have been scheduled for the weeks ahead. Attendance has been consistent though rotating so every week it seems that there are many unfamiliar faces in the congregation. This impression is lessening with each week. Much of Stephen’s work at this point is sermon and lesson preparation as well as administration with just a smattering of more hands-on shepherding.
Virtually every aspect of the transition thus far has gone very well. That said, we must admit that we tire easily and still have a great deal more to learn. Nevertheless, we have every confidence of God’s presence with us and the encouragement of your support and affection. We look forward to more updates soon.
With the affection of Christ,
Stephen and Debbie Jenks
No comments:
Post a Comment