August 1 - October 2, 2008

Hi everyone. It has been a while since we last wrote. We were without internet service for over a couple of weeks. That being said, there is a lot to report but I’ll be brief.

First and foremost, eight people have been added to the Lord’s body since our last newsletter. August 8, a young man was immersed. A little more than a month later, September 21, six declared their faith and allegiance in the Lord and were also immersed. Then, this past Tuesday, another individual was also baptized. Santo Torres and I had spent many hours talking with these people about their baptism only to have them tell us they were not ready. Then finally, the dike of resistance gave way as the Spirit touched hearts. What a sweet delight to see people take this step of faith/obedience.

The church has celebrated several successful events these past two months. The best attended was a concert by Claudina Brinn, a well-known Hispanic Christian recording artist. As best as we could count, the attendance that evening was around one-hundred and sixty. Our building was jam packed. Only by providing programming for the kids in the basement were we able to accommodate the crowd. Out of that concert a new family has been faithfully attending our services. The wife made a commitment at the end of that concert. We hope she too will be immersed soon. Still others have made decisions of renewal and commitment these past few weeks.

Other successful events include: Talent night, our first ever Grandparents’ Day, Pastors’ Day in which the elders and I were recognized and honored, an all-church outing, a guest men’s choir, and two guest speakers. For most of the Sundays the attendance has been good, even climbing to over one-hundred and fifteen for the men’s choir concert.

This has been a wonderful year. As we try to do our very best to seek excellence in everything, the pay-off has been rich. Just today one of our deacons informed me we have had one-hundred and sixty-five first time visitors this year. He also informed me over one-hundred and forty consider our congregation their home church. (I sure wish we could get them all to church every Sunday and on time!!!)

Of course, this work and ministry is possible because of individuals and churches like you. Thank you and may the Lord be praised. Blessings to each and all.

Johnathan and Mary Reece

Cross-cultural ministers to Puerto Rico