Chuch in Congo

Uncle Dean's day crew Bob invited him to attend church with him. Mark drove a group of us to the church.  We were welcomed warmly and give the opportunity to speak.  We were also asked to lead the church in singing.  We sang, "What a Friend We Have in Jesus" and "Lord I Lift Your Name on High".

Mark speaking a word of encouragement to the congregation.

The church filled up quickly.  Children sat in the back, women in the middle and men on the left.  We were given seats of honor in the front of the room.

After the service the pastor and his wife hosted us with snacks and cold sodas.  The pastor shared with us his testimony and how the church was started.  We prayed for the church and then they presented us with gifts to show us that we were welcome (a Congolese tradition).  We were given pineapples, mangoes, plantains, and carrots.  In all it must have filled 8 or 9 bags.  We felt very welcomed!

The front of the church.

Simply Christmas...Academy Christmas Musical

Matthew has been playing hand chimes this year and he preformed during the pre-show segment of the Christmas musical.  We are so proud of Matthew!

Caleb chose to play recorders this last semester.  He struggled but persevered and did and excellent job playing Jingle Bells.  Way to go Caleb!

Caleb singing and dancing in the opening number.

Jacob played Joseph and did an amazing job memorizing a five minute monologue.  There is a video on my face book page if you would like to see his hard work.

Matthew in a song about the sheep's perspective on the birth of Jesus.

We are so proud of all our boys.  We have seen them grow so much this year. 

 It is such a joy to be their parents!

Let the Christmas Season Begin...Holiday Ballet

This year we had Christmas decorations (some of you might remember that last year our tree was made from toilet paper rolls).  My mom bought decorations during after Christmas sales last year and we put them on a container in July.  This year I broke my December first rule and I put up decorations before Thanksgiving. 

This is our living room/bedroom window.  The Story of Christmas is a family tradition.  Every Christmas morning it is the first thing that we read.  We didn't bring it with us and last year one of our supporters was able to send us a copy.  It has been such a blessing to be able to carry on important family traditions.

Christmas Cards! (Most from previous years because they don't seem to arrive before Christmas.)

Stockings made from Guinea fabric.

This year we put on a Holiday Ballet with dancing, poetry, and stories.  It was great fun and helped start the Holiday season!

Silent Night

Waltz of the Flowers

Sleigh Ride

Ms. Sarah reading scripture announcing the birth of Jesus.

Finale: Come and Worship