Blessings working with young people!

Greetings from Luanshya!

Last Saturday Sherry had a very special experience. She was the guest speaker at a "kitchen party" (bridal shower) for one of the young women in the church. This event is different from our conventional shower in that it is often more widely attended than even the actual wedding ceremony. The young lady is "showered" with gifts but she is also given instruction on how to take care of her husband and home. Sherry's admonition was on marriage as a committed partnership and a cooperative effort between equal partners. The idea of equal partners in a marriage is a foreign concept in a society where men have the idea that it is okay to beat their wives into submission. All too often the wives will agree with that concept. Claude and Petronella have been sitting with us in premarital counseling and fully understand the biblical concept of loving and caring for each other. As Sherry spoke at the function, many of the older women had a hard time accepting what she was sharing from the Word of God. It was good to know that Petronella and her mother both agreed with Sherry. Pray for this young couple as they continue in their counseling in preparation for their wedding day.

The newest member of our family, Courtney from Canada, (our youth exchange student) has begun to fit in quite nicely into our home. Colin commented that it was nice to have someone his own age around the house. She has joined right in with the chores and is even learning to try out some of our local cuisine. She went with one of the young ladies to visit her school and is excited about the year ahead. Please pray for Courtney as this will be a life changing experience for her. Last Sunday she attended church with us and appeared to be comfortable in her surroundings.

Two of the students from the Men's Bible Institute turned in their answers to questions concerning their latest lessons. They have learned to give succinct, well-documented responses to the questions instead of talking in circles and trying to fill a page. The difference between their first assignment and this last one is truly amazing. As we move into the Poetic books, Job is going challenging in itself. Many issues that are often theoretical are going to be examined from a very practical manner. Pray for the students as they continue in their studies.

The College and Career class has grown substantially. Young people have begun to realize that they can actually obtain practical answers to everyday questions. The study on Daniel has brought them face to face with the concept of being faithful to the Lord even when it is not popular with their friends and colleagues. Please continue to pray for our young people. They face a myriad of obstacles. Next week they examine Daniel 8, which broaches the subject of World Powers In Conflict particularly in relation to the destiny of Israel.

We appreciate your prayers on our behalf. These weekly updates give you a brief glimpse at our lives and those affected by your concerted prayers.

In His Service,

Patrick & Sherry