Monday, March 10, 2014

Our loss...

Heaven's gain!
 
Nell Baranski, John's Mom, went to begin her eternal life of joy
 living with Jesus on Saturday, March 8, 2014
 
I had the privilege of knowing her as my second Mom.
 
Since our return to Japan in 2003 I have visited her every time I made it back to the states and our bond and friendship grew deeper and stronger with each visit shared.
 
In the beginning, our 'in-love' relationship had its bumps.
We made it over and through those to share a very special friendship, love and respect.
 
We will miss you so much!
Yet we are rejoicing with you knowing that you are now sharing the perfect life Jesus prepared just for you!
 
One day we'll all share that joy together.
Until then we know you'll be helping watch over us all.
Love you!

Joining the Family of God!!

On New Year's Day this year we were privileged to witness the baptism of one of our younger church members. What a blessing! Family and friends gathered to support his decision to choose Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
Our small church has a 'baptismal tub' located in the floor behind the pulpit.

The pulpit is moved temporarily.
The floorboards are taken away.
Pastor steps down onto the ground beneath the floor.
The baptism candidate slowly enters the water.
It's COLD!!!!





HALLELUIAH!!!!!!
 

Looking back a little

Yes, I do know that it is the 10th of March.. and I'm posting Christmas pics. I think it's always the right time to think of and share the joy we feel at Christmas!!
Besides, I'm sitting here watching it snow out my window!!!! (with my feet snuggled up to the heater)
It's been doing this off and on the past 3 or 4 days and though it isn't accumulating here - YAY!! - the area mountains are getting deeper by the minute! Of course that is great for the resorts.

Back to Christmas!
We had the annual Sunday School Christmas party at church. With only 6 children in our church we invite friends as well.
Starting off with some Christmas carols and a brief message about why we really celebrate!
 

 
Then on to some fun and games
a contest to see which group could create the best snowman using toilet paper

complete with hat, face and buttons...

this was a winner!!

Next all the kids made a little decoration to take home
Thanks to Naoko for all her time and effort to get this all together!!
Every child had a great little gift decoration to take home to Mom.

And what's a party without snacks???
Of course we give our thanks for all God's wonderful gifts first.

Even Santa showed up to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas!

 
Santa was spied at several area elementary schools and other places as well during the Christmas season. He kept a pretty busy schedule passing out bibles and other goodies.
The true message of Christmas and all God offers was shared in the giving of over 1000 bibles this past Christmas!!! Thanks so very much to all who contributed to make that possible!




Santa had quite an escort on his way out

...until next year!!!