HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Dad, with his 4 children: Pat, Michael, Tom, and Danny

Dear Loved Ones,

We greet you from snowy Niles, Michigan! The weather reminds us of our many years in Moscow and is absolutely beautiful!

We have been here around 4 months. Time has gone by quickly. As we look back, we can see that God's hand has lead us every step of the way. He continues to use each of you in a special and unique way. It has been through your prayers and financial support that we have been helped in getting settled into this new ministry. We are abundantly blessed to be a part of Life Action Ministries. Every arm, leg, and hand is playing a vital and profitable role in leading our wounded nation back to surrendering all for the sake of Jesus Christ. Testimony after testimony bears witness of what God is doing in the heart of Christians all over this country and Canada, too. It is taking place one yielded heart at a time. As road teams visit churches across our land, individuals in each body are being impacted. As they surrender to the true meaning of Jesus Christ being Lord of their lives, it is causing reconciliation in marriages, families, churches, and communities.

Our involvement in ministering to pastors, their wives, and fellow laborers has been encouraging. We have seen and heard time and time again of God's hand at work in bringing refreshment, healing, and restoration. We are privileged and blessed to be a part of The Lodge staff. It is a unique team of individuals whose hearts are to practice Christ-centered hospitality to bless and minister to church leadership in need.

Recently a new door has been opened to the ministry and us. Over the past few months, God has brought to mind and heart James 1:27. This is significant to us because it was a key Scripture He used in His call for us to go to Russia. 'Pure religion undefiled before God and the Father, is to visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction.' Life Action is answering that call by reaching out to orphans through foster care parents, adoptive parents, and adoption agencies. Though we are still feeling our way down this new path, there is no question that it is God Who has opened this door.

In the midst of our busyness with Christmas activities at The Lodge, Sarah and Andrei were big helpers. When Sarah had time, she joined us in preparing meals while Andrei gave a helping hand with set up and dishes. It has been a real team effort. A few months ago, Sarah was asked to serve in the main office as an administrative assistant. Her servant's heart, talents, and diligence have earned a good reputation and much gratitude from the staff. Andrei has also been busy volunteering his services for anyone who has need. He, too, has gained a good reputation among the staff. He successfully complteted his GED and has begun taking some college courses at a local branch of Lake Michigan College. John-David is still in Charlotte working. We were thankful to be able to spend his birthday and Christmas with him. He continues to volunteer at his church where he is being fed and challenged by the teaching of God's Word. It is a joy to see how God is using each of our grown children to minister to the needs of others.

After spending Christmas with Roz's dad in South Carolina, we traveled to Florida to visit with friends as well as join Tom's dad for his 90th birthday celebration. As he says, he's in pretty good shape for the shape he's in! It was a blessing for all of Tom's siblings to gather together as everyone enjoyed the festivities of the weekend.

It was also a blessing to be able to visit with some of you along the way. We were disappointed in not being able to see all who are dear to us! In planning our visits, we were challenged with bouts of illness as well as working around holiday schedules, however, we trust the Lord will allow our paths to cross in His perfect time!

As we consider the new year that is before us, we are looking forward to all that God has planned. The ministry opportunities are many. Our desire is to be in the center of His will, following His plan. Please join us in praying for clear direction and discernment.

We truly believe that God planted us here in Michigan with Life Action. In the process of getting established and basically starting from square one, we are reminded of God's faithful provision. We are also reminded that God's work, done God's way, will never lack God's supply. Thank you for your faithful prayer and financial support. We are ever mindful of and grateful for the sacrificial gifts He gives through you. May He be the Source of encouragement and strength for your hearts today as you faithfully live for Him.