Mele Kalikimaka (Merry Christmas) from Hawaii …
We have much to be thankful for and much to pray about this holiday season. We praise God for all our friends and family, and allowing us to be here as we strive to serve the Samoan people.
We have seen a number of firsts here in Hawaii for which we are thankful:
- Our first Baptism on the Beach Party as we joined in celebrating the public commitment of our brothers and sisters to their Lord and Savior. It was humbling to behold the power of God’s creation while celebrating the glory of His salvation.
- Our first basic healthcare education booklets compiled by Julie and a missionary nurse and published in English and Samoan. These will be expanded and improved for future medical missions.
- Our first home in Hawaii and praising God for every inch of the 1350 square feet and 1.5 baths… and the many kids for the girls to play with in our park (many are Samoan).
- Paul’s first mission to Samoa with so many touched by God’s healing hand and asking God to be their Lord and Savior. Paul’s first time wearing a skirt (or lavalava – a wrap around cloth worn by Polynesian men and women)
- Hosting our first mission conference for the Missionary Church International.
- Our first ministry partner in Hawaii (Paradise Global Missions, a division of Jesus Christ is Calling You Ministries)
- Julie’s first year teaching both girls at home. They are both making great strides.
- Grace is doing well in counseling and Kristen is enjoying new independence on the phone and internet (with appropriate filters and security).
- Our first proposal to join with the Minister of Health of Western Samoa for future healthcare education missions. This partnership will enable us to reach most if not all of the most rural villages with healthcare education and the good news of Jesus Christ.
- We join with Mission of Hope Ministries in SC in celebration of their 13 years serving the Islands of Samoa. We are blessed to be able to partner with them to meet the physical and spiritual needs of the Samoan people.
