The week in Honduras was superb in every way–weather, activities, graduation, reports, visits, even the board meeting. The number of graduates was slightly lower this year, but our eight graduates will make a difference in the world. They are going to Nicaragua (assisting with Mision Para Cristo), El Salvador and eventually to join a Mexico City Mission Team, Peru, and to the U.S. for continuing graduate studies. They represent dreams for new churches, additional training for ministry in Latin America by well-trained and experienced Latin Americans, and a bright future for the church.
A couple of dozen graduates of the CELO extension program joined another 30+ who just graduated in Cuba. Thirteen countries were represented at the various graduation activities. Attendance at the combined Sunday morning worship was very good–the count was near 1000.
I hope you will be able to attend a graduation ceremony sometime in the future–your spirit will be buoyed by the hope and potential you will see in the eyes, hearts, and dreams of those students who go forth to make a difference for the Lord. As we look toward 2010, several projects are waiting in the work at Baxter–construction, a significant increase in enrollment, a large number of students in the apprentice program, more distance learning students and the possibility of increased Internet use, videoconferencing possibilities…. If you could assist with a small (or large) monetary donation, or would like more information, please contact me. Or you can check out the Baxter website to learn more about how you can help.
Above all, we ask your prayers as we strive to make a difference all across Latin America.