As we've been traveling on deputation these last few months there were a number of people asking us about the violence in Mexico. If you'd like to see the article in the New York Times that talks about what has happened in our town you can find it by clicking on the link to the AFLC World Missons Prayer Blog http://aflc-wm.blogspot.com/2009_01_01_archive.html . In my letter posted Wednesday, January 14th you'll find the link to the New York Times article. Up until the time we left Jerez in May things were significantly calmer and I have told people that we have not felt personally threatened and have felt no need 'to be let down in a basket with a rope over the city wall' like the apostle Paul was on one occasion. Things have certainly not reached that point but all of us in Jerez greatly appreciate your prayers for us.
During our visits this summer we have been sharing a DVD movie about the work in Jerez. You can access the video via the World Missions home page at http://www.aflc.org/world-missions/. Click on "View World Missions Videos" and that should take you to "Schierkolks Part 1." The movie is divided into two parts. In the second part the music had to be edited significantly so if you'd like to see the original you can contact the World Missions office and ask them for the copy of the DVD. After you view "Schierkolks Part 1" you can watch "Schierkolks Part 2." If the title doesn't automatically come to your screen just type it into the search bar and it will show up.
This summer was a great time for all of us to be with family, visit with friends and supporters from numbers of churches and share about the ministry going on in Jerez. We are so grateful for the love and support that we have received from so many over these years. We are very blessed to be partners in the Gospel with you. We would ask you to continue to remember our fellow-workers in Jerez, Short-Term Assistants Ingrid Giles and Dan and Marcela Giles and their children. Thanks for your prayers and support for them as well.
The first weekend of October we're looking forward to a quick visit from Dan and Debbie Giles for the baptism of their new little grandson and we'd appreciate your prayers for their travels, too.
In Christ,
Todd and Barb Schierkolk
