I’m sure you’ve experienced God changing the game plan. It’s always for the better, helping to accomplish His purposes. When I planned my Retirement Home Assignment (RHA) in prayer, I had several factors to take into consideration.
I began with three trips outside Ontario to meet the requirements for OHIP (provincial health insurance). Praise God, I received my OHIP number last week, which meant I could keep my eye specialist appointment yesterday. That appointment was also secured more quickly than anticipated — another praise!
I then planned on visiting all my supporting churches and individuals in Ontario through the rest of the year, hoping to finish before winter weather sets in. September, however, was mostly spent moving and settling into my new home (love my bedroom/office view). I didn’t expect to have housing before next year, so it is a real praise to feel settled already. The move went well, the internet is up and running, and I’ve been blessed with furniture, household goods, and some fantastic sales. Another joy has been getting to know my new neighbours — they’ve been very friendly and welcoming.
Another answer to prayer and praise is that God has given me a new church home, where I’ve already been warmly welcomed and involved. I may not see them much before December as I pick up the pace of RHA visits, but it’s reassuring to have both an apartment and a church family to return to.
I was able to do a few RHA visits and want to highlight one. Gerry Morehouse was the Canadian Director of TEAM when I began my missionary career. He and his late wife began supporting me in prayer and finances from the very start. Gerry is now 99 years old and intends to continue his support to the end. I praise God for Gerry and for the whole team of faithful supporters He has provided over the decades. I am grateful for each one of you!
Several of you have asked about helping financially in my retirement. I said I would explain this month, but I’d like to delay that by one more month. TEAM does provide opportunities, and I’ll share more next time along with highlighting a faithful supporting church. It’s another praise, but I’ll leave you in suspense.
This image is from a youth-centred mission conference. Many missionaries are nearing retirement — who will replace us? Maybe God is calling some of you! One of my supporters moved to Japan as a tent-making missionary a few years ago. I know many of you serve faithfully in your churches and ministries, and I praise God for using this weak vessel (me). I’d love to hear from any of you seriously considering missions.
As I mentioned in my last letter: My focus now turns to visiting supporters in Ontario. For those of you in Ontario, please answer if you see a call from Mexico, because it’s probably me! I am keeping that number. For your convenience, you can call or text me at 226-887-2909. For those nearby, let me know if you’d like me to visit you or if you’d like to come to my place!
The Lord is working in the El Faro church, but so is the enemy. There was another break-in — fortunately, only a fan was stolen. The property title also remains a prayer request. About two weeks ago, everything was set up with the Notary for a signing, but one party is not cooperating. Please pray for the Lord to work in all those involved.
Pastor Willy and his family are now in Seattle at the invitation of the partnering church. Please pray that after recent attacks and discouragement, the Spirit would provide rest, refreshment, and renewed zeal as they return to La Paz. I praise God for their commitment and effective ministry at El Faro.
Please also pray for the family of a dear supporter who passed away last weekend, and for the remaining RHA visits — that they would be a blessing to all, just as the earlier visits have been.
Full of praise and thanksgiving,
PS – Happy Thanksgiving in a couple of weeks to my Canadian friends and family!
Brenda
