Winter 2023

For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. (Hebrews 4:12-13)

The author of Hebrews succinctly describes the wisdom and power found only in the Word of God. In a time when we must constantly discern what is true and what is not, we can rest in the fact that our God cannot be fooled by man’s words or schemes. Likewise, His Word will always stand as the one source of truth and righteousness. It is the only absolute in a world that is constantly shifting and changing under the pressure of human wisdom and spiritual darkness. Friends, take heart in the unshakable truth found in God’s Word.

Ministry News

Throughout this quarter, Luke continued his series on influences in our lives, dealing with sensitive topics such as relationships and substance abuse, as well as those we all face like social media, music, and money/possessions.

The Fall ladies meeting, entitled “The Heart of a Woman: A story of pain and love,” held on November 12, was very well attended by 34 ladies. We praise the Lord for these ladies who listened intently to the speaker who discussed Hannah’s relationships with others and her despair, desire, and joy as she learned to trust God fully.

Throughout October and November, we held rehearsals for the teen choir, which performed in two churches on December 11. Although for many of the 11 teens this was their first time singing in the choir, they did a wonderful job. In the afternoon, we took them to the Christmas Market in Oradea for lunch where they could ice skate or ride the Ferris wheel. This was also a first for many of them.

December 23 was the highly anticipated Children’s Christmas Program. Afterwards, we distributed 71 gift bags to children ages 0-11, more than 30 bags to teens age 12+, and 55 bags to their families. Ruth and Sarah had spent many hours personalizing the children’s gift bags for each child. Then our family, with the help of Ben, Celeste, and Amber, helped pack the family bags. Thank you for your financial support and donated items, both of which help us to create a meaningful Christmas gift bag for the entire community.

Thanking the Lord for all the blessings He provided in 2022!

Dave, Ruth, Celeste, and Amber

Family News

We loved having Amber, Celeste, and Ben with us over the holiday break. We were able to spend a few days sightseeing, but mostly we enjoyed each other’s company at home.

Amber had another strong semester academically, and she is back at Miami for spring semester. Pray for her as she plans for summer and a possible trip to Japan.

Ben is beginning to hear back from the veterinary schools where he has applied. One has accepted him already, and he had a good interview with his top choice this past weekend. Pray for it to be clear to him and Celeste where he should study and where they should live. He is in his final semester at Cedarville University.