Views from the Vallettes – September 2010

When the music stopped playing and the voices were all finished singing a second of silence fell over the youth group…and then terrific shouts of happiness and enthusiastic clapping went on for quite a few minutes.  Angel slightly bowed his head as his cheeks turned a shade of pink, yet we all could see the smile that was on his face.  Our worship leader, Jonathan turned to congratulate Angel on doing a great job singing.  He was using his voice for the Lord. 

As missionaries the greatest joy is watching a person give their life to the Lord, choosing the path of salvation through grace in Jesus Christ.  But coming in a close second is watching the new believers discover the gifts God has given and to watch them blossom.  Our job is to come along side of these new Christians helping them discover how to best use what God has given them for His glory. 

Over a year ago, Holly and I stopped the Saturday Kid’s Club ministry because there was no interest from any church member to lead or teach these children.  Just this past month Nicolas and Orlando decided to resurrect this ministry for the children.  They have also involved Argentina (a school teacher) and Jose (a young adult) to help them.  Together each Saturday they have games and activities for the children along with a Bible story and memory verse.  Do you see what we are saying?  They are doing it…using their gifts…working together to serve the Lord in the church!  Talk about exciting!!!! 

Maunel recently started attending our church.  His family moved into the area and his other church is pretty far away.  His enthusiasm and love for the Lord is evident.  He asked to meet with me (Richie) this past week, but seemed quite timid.  Once the conversation got rolling, he asked if it was possible to learn how to preach.  He had this “sense in his heart” that kept him thinking about learning how to teach God’s Word.  The Holy Spirit is prodding this young man to use what God has given him! 

11 people came on Sunday afternoon for the Sunday School Teacher meeting.  11…yes, you did see that number correctly!  For two hours the teachers met in small groups to discuss how to be more effective in the classroom, new decoration ideas, how to set up a Bible verse competition, reviewing the new curriculum and of course having a few yummy snacks Holly prepared.  11 people wanting to use their talents to teach God’s Word to our children! 

We hope you get the idea of what we are saying.  Don Jose builds beautiful doors, pulpits and decorations with wood.  Ana is a lawyer presently going through the legal process to have our church incorporated with the government.  Eligio wrote an amazing poem and shared it with the church body.  Mily loves to put together flower arrangements, hanging banners and making decorations, all to help create a beautiful place of worship.  Yoseny wants to continue working on her piano skills in order to (lovingly kick out Holly) play during the services. 

Pray for us as we motivate, encourage, lift up, pick up, work through, study together, practice, pray, and listen carefully in order to support our Dominican church body as they mature in their faith by using their gifts and abilities for God’s glory and honor. 

Oh yeah, and by the way, Angel has now joined the worship team!  You’ll have to come and see him sing sometime.  It is a joy to watch!

Loving our jobs and our Savior,

Richie, Holly, Kasandra and Jason Vallette