Dear Friends and Family, March 2022
Last month was an exciting month. It has been a little unusual as we are still waiting to hear back on the permits for the new building that where we would like to hold services. In the middle of the month, our pastor, Rodney Kelley, came to visit us. It was a blessing to spend some time together and for him to see firsthand the blessings and challenges of ministry here. It has been nearly three years since Jeremy has been to Nicaragua, so it was a good opportunity for him to see the churches and spend a little time with the pastors. The trip started well until they were held up at the border. Their covid tests were not accepted, so we had to get new ones. After getting through, Jeremy then had some stomach issues. Thankfully, he recovered quickly after. He was able to teach a boys class at a church that was planted a few years ago. He was also able to preach at the church that we started in San Marcos. It was good for him to see pastor Berner and the church members. There are now 11 students preparing for the ministry at the Bible Institute. Praise God! It was a good reminder that a fruitful harvest in ministry usually only comes after many years of laying a strong foundation. We must sow the Word, but God gives the increase in His time!
Before our trip, Elijah walked into a moving swing and cut his head. We had to take him to the E.R. Thankfully, he only needed one stitch. He is now better. During the Nicaragua trip, Michelle stayed home and took care of the kids. She stays very busy caring for the kids and serving in many ways. In Jeremy's absence, it was good to see several people get more engaged. Several came early to help set up and others helped in other capacities. As mentioned last month, we were able to purchase a used 12 seat van/microbus. We did not know this, but one family that attends with us used to run a bus route in another church. They were very excited. The wife helped to coordinate with families, and the husband helped to drive. We did not expect to have to run two trips on our first Sunday! Even though several were absent, we had about 28 in attendance. It is encouraging to see how Jesus builds his church! The girls have continued studying very hard. Ellowyn has had to study extra hard as she is currently one grade ahead of where she would be in the United States. All of the children continue to make progress in their Spanish.
Last month, the Lord also provided by way of another church taking us on for support and also committing to send the first month's rent payment for the new building! What a blessing! This month, please pray:
1. That God will clear any obstacles to the approval of the permits for our new meeting location.
2. That God will continue to raise up more laborers to help us with the work of the ministry.
3. That God will lead as we push forward to see more souls saved and more spiritual growth in the church.
In Christ,
Jeremy, Michelle, Lila, Ellowyn, and Elijah Blanz
