Much of what we do here is appreciated by the deaf and their family. For example I have a regular study with a man who lives with his parents and other family members. He works around the house taking care of maintenance issues and caring for the family live stock. Every Wednesday I go there for our study, and then I'll spend some time conversing with his parents. They are always happy to see me and like clock-work they will bring out cookies and a drink during the study. Then, when I'm ready to leave, his father faithfully approaches me with a clinched fist full of money that he'll slide into my hand as he's firmly shaking it, I've stopped trying to refuse the money it only upsets him. I'd like you to meet Sanjay (study), father Sonny and his mom Doreen.
At present Crystal and I conduct almost 20 deaf bible studies not to mention the studies and return visits we have with hearing individuals. Our Sign Language group has seen steady growth with a total of 21 publishers, (9 deaf publishers) and 7 pioneers. Last month our group spent over 790 hours in the ministry and conducted 59 progressive bible studies. We're hoping this year our Memorial for the Deaf will hit the 100 mark, we're anxious to start the Memorial invitation campaign. Recently, we've enjoyed the company of some brothers and sisters who were willing to come and experience the unique ministry and culture of Guyana. Kevin and Liz Lipman from Wisconsin came for an entire month and preached in the rain and heat. It was really nice having a brother to accompany me in the preaching work, often times I'm flying solo. We hope they will be willing to brave the elements and come back again...soon!
Kevin and Liz outside the KH
Us hangin'out
Then we had a sister from Tampa, Cassandra Gregg, come and stay for 9 days. She was a real trooper when it came to dealing with the discomforts, the spiders and bugs. She's had the opportunity to visit other developing countries but stated that Guyana has been the most challenging to cope with but hopefully she'll take good memories home with her and encourage others to take that step over into Guyana.
Cassandra with our deaf sisters.
Which is cuter the baby donkey or....
Crystal and Cassandra getting ready to chow into some chowmein.
Here are just some pictures of us out in the ministry.
Crystal getting ready to cross...the bridge?
Me on my "hog"
Myself, Liz, Rosie (left), and Mary-Ann trying to figure out where do we go from here.
We're going to continue to do our best to cover our territory, help our studies to make advancement and just keep on smiling. Again, much of what we do here is truly appreciated and that helps us to put our hearts into what we're doing. Throughout this year we'll have more people who come and spend time in the ministry with us and I'm certain once they've experienced it they'll leave us with that same special feeling. We send our greetings and love to all.
Scott & Crystal
