January 2007 Adventures

We’ve had a wonderful beginning to 2007! The North District had their annual district wide baptism, and 28 new baptized souls have joined the fold, with over 300 attending from 8 of our 9 churches! It is always such a blessing to attend these large baptisms. Baptisms here are done “down by the river”. We begin with lots of singing under the trees. Then we have a brief sermon about the meaning of baptism, and what Paul tells us in the Bible. The individuals to be baptized then enter the water, wearing white robes. Next, the pastors all enter the water, form a circle of prayer, and then begin the ceremony. Each individual is asked his name, if he professes his faith in Jesus Christ publicly, and if he wishes to be baptized. Then, each is immersed into the water while the preacher says the words “I baptize you in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost”. There is plenty of singing and clapping as each individual comes out of the water. After all are baptized, we have communion together. It is a spirit filled afternoon.

Pastors in prayer before starting.

All ages are baptized, this man has been a Christian for 50 years, but is 75 for his baptism.

Newly baptized receiving communion.

One church rented a truck to bring their congregation.

As always, we brought lots of folks to the baptism. But this month we also had the opportunity of carrying many different items in our truck. The Susannah Wesley School is about to open, but was in need of desks. So, off to Asuncion we go to buy desks. We were able to get only 90 desks on our trailer and in the truck at 1 time. We made it to the school in Quinta Linea without loosing a single desk!

We also picked up a cachape for Pastor Rutildo. He had a new ox drawn cart made near Santani, and asked if we could bring it home. We have certainly felt like the Clampet family from the old television show Beverly Hillbillies this month.

This month was also the time our National church has their General Assembly. Ed has been asking our president, Pastor Pablo, for 2 years to transfer his duties as District Superintendent to a Paraguayan. This year Pastor Luciano was named as the District Superintendent for our district. We couldn’t be happier for the decision. However, Linda is still on the Financial Review Committee; guess she wasn’t as effective in persuading Pastor Pablo to assign a Paraguayan!

Linda with Financial Review Committee.

Ed giving our yearly ministry report.