We
hope and pray that each of you are doing well. Here in Costa Rica, we
are facing a second wave of the virus that is much worse than the
first. Within a few days of allowing churches to hold services, the
government went back on reopening for most of the country. Those that
can hold services have very strict rules and most people are not
comfortable with attending. We
have continued to hold online services during this time. Last month,
Michelle organized the first ladies meeting for our church plant.
There 13 present including a 3 girls and several visitors. This
month, they have planned another ladies meeting. Jeremy has continued
to preach 2-3 times per week. Jeremy is currently learning to use a
new streaming software which should help us do better online services
and outreach. In light of the present government restrictions and the
current trajectory of the
situation, it appears that online services may be our only way to
meet for quite a while. The church in Nicaragua has also faced a very
tough time. The government has done very little to limit the spread
of the virus. Hospitals are overwhelmed. The economy is suffering
tremendously. We have been able to help with some economic relief
during this time.
As
for our family, it has now been nearly 4 months since we have been
able to leave the house regularly. Our kids have continued to do
their home studies, and currently have a brief mid-year vacation from
classes. It has been a little bit of relief to not be so busy doing
home school on top of everything else that we do for a little while.
We have had to be creative to find places where the kids can play
outside due to most places being closed. Michelle has been working
with another lady and will be holding our first virtual Sunday school
class for children. This has given us one more form of outreach for
our ministry.
As
we continue to move forward in these uncertain times, we know that we
must trust the Lord every step of the way. Are
you pray for us, please know that we are praying for you as well.
This month, please pray:
1.
That God continue to remove obstacles to ministry and outreach here
in Costa Rica.
2.
That God will bless our efforts to bring the Gospel to the community.
3.
That God will continue to establish His church here in San Pablo,
Costa Rica!
In
Christ,
Jeremy,
Michelle, Lila, Ellowyn,
and Elijah
Blanz
