Some of the people we have worked with

The greatest highlight of our time here has been the wonderful people we have had the privilege of meeting and working with.  In an earlier post I shared about NETS and the great job it is doing in training and equipping leaders for the churches here.  We have also enjoyed meeting with and worshiping in various churches in the area.

As I have shared in the past, Lynda and I have been attending the Good Shepherd Baptist Church near our house.  Pastor Afif Saba and his wife Mimi have been wonderful friends and encouragers to us.  He has truly served as our pastor while we have been here.

 Recently they welcomed to the family their latest grandchild--little Afif!

 Ibrahim Bishara serves as the worship leader at Good Shepherd Baptist Church.  He serves part-time and also works as a teacher.  We celebrated his daughter Grace's birthday recently.

 Ziad Farraj serves as the worship leader at the church in Tu'ran.  Ziad is working on his Master's Degree.  He works as a teacher for kids with visual impairments.

 Hanna Eid and his family serve in Eilaboun--a beautiful community just north of Nazareth.

Hanni Sayegh and his family serve in Pkeki'in in the Upper Galilee.

These men and their families represent some of the 20 Baptist Churches that are part of the Association of Baptist Churches in Israel.  With 800 baptized members, the challenge to impact this region and nation for Christ is huge.  Please pray for these leaders and their families and their churches.

Lynda and I have been humbled by their faithfulness in the midst of great obstacles--a minority of a minority of a minority of a minority!

Part of our work here has been to help strengthen the communication tools of NETS to tell its story.  I hope that you will sign up to receive the NETS e-letter which will include highlights of the work of NETS along with interviews with staff and students, plus prayer requests.  Just drop me an e-mail (ssmith@brnonline.org) and I will be glad to add you to the mailing list.  Thanks!