Dear Friends and Family,
Greetings from Portugal.
Helen and I are home now after 11 days in Sweden. Fall is in full force there, with temperatures dropping to 1ºC at night. It was nice to get home where it is still summer temps. of +30ºC. Though cold and rainy our time in Stockholm was really blessed. We have so many friends there and the ministry just flowed. Helen and I both agreed that next year we need to spend more time there. Revival is in the air. Shortly after getting back home, we were able to receive two young girls from Eswatini, (Swaziland). It was a real fight to get their visas, but on the 7th they received word the visas were approved and on the 8th they boarded the plane for Lisbon. For the next two weeks they will minister in various churches here in Portugal. They are part of the Abraham household at New Hope Center and have fantastic testimonies of faith and God’s mercy.
Shortly after the girls leave, we are off to Germany for 11 days of ministry. We will be in four cities in the South of the country. We will also be able to visit our granddaughter Ruth Schultz, who is studying ballet in Stuttgart. On the 11th of November, (lots of 11s), we fly to N.Y. just in time for our youngest’s granddaughter’s 2nd birthday. We will be with Rachal and Tiago and the girls until the 15th, when we fly out to Boise, Idaho. The 11 days in Boise will be filled with our annual S.I.M. board meeting, ministry and visiting with my sisters, Joyce and Lois. Thanksgiving will be spent with our California girls, Sara and Sharon, and their families and then Christmas with our New York clan. We will be home on the 8th of January.
Since coming through the “bump in the road”, (prostate cancer), we have not stopped. While home I have been writing and Helen has been painting. At present, Helen’s artwork is on exhibition at the public library. I finished a 12-booklet series on church life, “Ekklesia”, and am very pleased with their reception throughout Europe. I am currently writing another book on spiritual warfare, entitled: Layered Warfare. This latest book is the result of our ministry in Sweden, as the churches have continued to request teaching on this area. One of our highlights in ministering here in Europe is the receptivity of the immigrant communities. So precious to see the humility and tenderness of those who have suffered so much for their faith.
Helen and I are in prayer for next year’s agenda. On the short list are: U.S.A., Mozambique, Swaziland, Madagascar, Angola, Germany, Sweden, England, Colombia and Morocco. Also considering Egypt, Lebanon and Guinea Bissau. There are so many open doors and invitations that we need to know what is God’s assignment for us, and to know the right timing. Thanks for praying with us about this.
The local church, here in Lisbon, is moving forward. Many of you have received Seth’s video-clip about the progress in the renovation of the new building. Next week will be in our first meeting, which is next to the airport. Still much to do and equipment to buy, but it is coming together. This has been a real step of faith for all and there is excitement and growth in the church. Next week is also the 32nd anniversary for the church.
Do communicate. We love getting your news as well. You all are our partners and family, and we can’t do what we do without you.
Be blessed and be a blessing.
Jim and Helen