Dear Friends and Family,
Greetings from Bethlehem! It has been quite a while since we've sent out an update, and we apologize for that. So, we though we'd let you know what is going on over here and in our lives.
Paidia
Paidia is finally running programs! In March, they have started the Impact Program, which works with groups of youths to teach leadership, tolerance, and environmental care. Groups will come once a month to do experiential initiatives that focuses on one of those three categories. Since this is the first time, Paidia is working with groups from existing organizations in the Bethlehem area and they have several groups going through the program. Paidia also have started open climb times for their climbing tower, which are getting more and more popular. It is exciting to see the progress that Paidia is making and it is very encouraging to have programs going.
Sarah and the Baby
Sarah has stopped working at Bethlehem Bible College for her maternity leave. The last few weeks have been very nice for her and have given her a chance to get everything ready for the baby to come. Her due date is April 8 (this coming Tuesday). Please continue to pray for her and the baby as the day gets closer.
Easter
It's Easter season! We got to celebrate the protestant Easter a few weekends ago with a sunrise service on the Mount of Olives. The Orthodox Easter is in a few weeks, which many of our friends will be celebrating. Easter season has also provided some of our friends with permits to travel into Israel, so we have enjoyed days at the beach and in Jerusalem with some of our Palestinian friends.
Hiba
Hiba, the girl that we wrote about who needed hearing aids, has gotten them and is doing very well. Her hearing and learning has definitely increased. The volunteers at the House of Hope have said that they can tell a big difference in her responsiveness over the last few weeks. Praise God! Thank you to everyone who has been praying for her and who contributed financially for her hearing aids. Her family was so surprised that other people would want to help Hiba and were very thankful - I believe that it was a very powerful witness to her and her family. So thank you so much for helping us with that.
Prayer Requests
We have some prayer requests that we would like to share with you:
-Please pray for Jason, as he is very busy with work. Pray that he will not be overwhelmed and will get the rest that he needs.
-Pray for our baby, that she will continue to develop healthily and will make her appearance soon.
-Please pray for Sarah, as she is waiting to have the baby, that she will have patience and be able to enjoy these last few days (and hopefully not weeks) before the baby is born.
-Pray for the Christians in Palestine, that they will be reminded of the true hope and salvation that they have in Jesus Christ during this Easter season.
-Pray for the Muslims in Palestine, that they will see the joy and hope that Jesus provides with His death and resurrection.
Thank you so much for all of your prayers and support. We will definitely let you know when the baby is born, so hopefully you will be hearing from us again very soon! :-)
God Bless,
