It's still CHRISTmas!

Here in the Dominican Republic, families gather on Christmas Eve for a huge dinner and party. Christmas day is spent relaxing. Some may exchange gifts as is the custom in America on these days, but the holiday for the children to receive gifts is El Dia de los Reyes ....or Three Kings Day! The holiday, celebrated on the 12th day after Christmas, (Epiphany) commemorates the arrival of the Magi in Bethlehem.

I took this foto at our church, Cantico Nuevo, a few Christmas's ago when they had a Christmas drama, followed by a candlelight service and singing. They had a drama again this year as well.

These are Christmas ornaments made by a women's co-op here in the D.R. that we recently visited. Of course, I bought more than I should have, but this is one project the women do to raise money for their family. They have other sewing projects that they sell as well. There are many Christmas trees decorated around the city. We are glad to have the holiday extended to praise our Savior!

The Battle

I'm currently reading "The Battle" by Wayde I. Goodall. We are daily in battle...but the battle is not ours. God is our Defender and our Protector!

"Fear not, for I have redeemed you, I have called you by name; you are mine. when you pass through the waters, I will be with you; when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not harm you at all."Isaiah 43:1-2

I am comforted by knowing that our Father walks with us...through all things! We are blessed!

THANKSforGIVING!

The children in VBS this year at Old North Church in Canfield, Ohio sent their many blessings to the Dominican Republic!!!

Three THOUSAND, five hundred and eighty-eight...give or take a few, items of clothing for the many in need here in the D.R. The sizes ranged from baby clothing....to teenagers!

Below is Abner giving Irma and Jesus directions after we loaded their truck for the Children's Center in El Valle! We were able donate many items to Sabana Perdida, along the Ozama River, Ensanche Quisquea, Pastor Rene's Haitian church familes and many more. Below is Irma and Jesus with their truck packed for the Children's Center in El Valle!

"GIVE and it shall be given unto you, good measure, pressed down, shaken together, RUNNING OVER"..... Luke 6:38