September 7, 2007

Dear Pastors and Friends,

If you have seen the news lately, you are probably aware that Greece is experiencing, “fires from Hell.” It has been the worst economic and ecological disaster Greece has ever experienced: over150 villages burned, 65 people dead, livestock obliterated, and over 1.9 million acres of land decimated.

These fires come in the wake of political turmoil as the Prime Minister set September 16 as the date for elections, to try and catch his rivals, the leftist parties unprepared. It is not clear, but upon the arrest of several arsonists, it is suspected that the fires were started by people opposing Nea Democratia, the current rightwing government party.

In spite of Greece’s dire circumstances, the Lord blessed and gave us a new convert this month. Andreas and his girlfriend Eleni had been attending the Bible studies for a few months when she expressed her desire to be baptized. Mr. Dimakos began to explain to her that Biblical baptism was a step after you have been saved. She then prayed and asked Jesus in to her heart. The following day, I was able to assist Mr. Dimakos as Eleni was baptized. Since then Eleni and Andreas have been married and are faithfully attending church. Isn’t it a blessing that even in the darkest circumstances God’s goodness can shine through!

Please pray for us as we try to get everything that we need to prepare for the baby. Also pray because we were disappointed that the Doctor required us to have new blood work, and it will cost an additional $500. Please pray that the Lord will provide for this unexpected expense. We took a step of faith, and now we are praying in faith according to James 1:6, “But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed.”

Serving together for His glory,

James and Cristina Sinde