Our team in the Dominican Republic has been hard at work this December! The Lord is giving them opportunities to minister to those in Carrera de Palma and they are seeing spiritual growth. Claudia, one of our missionaries on staff with OVI, started a women's bible study almost 2 years ago. In that time she has seen these women grow from being interested in the Bible, to women who are seeking after God's own heart. Recently, they approached her and asked if they could take turns leading the study. What a blessing! Now Claudia helps them prepare but is able to be a part of a group that is teaching EACH OTHER from God's word.
Recently it was Aris's turn to lead the discussion. She shared that "In the time I have attended bible study, I learned that we can not kneel before pictures and statues because the Bible, the Word of God, says that."
This is a powerful statement from a woman who has grown up in a very Catholic community where prayers to Mary and the saints are the most common forms of worship. Claudia had made a point to avoid talking about religion and only taught straight from God's Word, so this testimony was a "light in the dark" for these women.
The men have also started a bible study on Sunday afternoons with Alejandro.
This is a great answer to prayer and we are excited to see how God will use the men of Carrera de Palma to lead their families and community to Christ! Continue to pray that:
- God would stir a passion in their hearts for His Word
- He would give Alejandro wisdom as he leads them closer to the Lord
- They would invite others to join them in bible study
The youth also had their first bible study this weekend! Even though these kids have been involved in the after-school program from the beginning, this is a great way to intentionally reach out to the older youth and teach them what it means to study the Word.
Last, but not least, December is the month that the after-school program celebrates June-December birthdays. The kids all came together for a big celebration at Mathilde's house.
We are so thankful for our Dominican team and all of the hard work they put in to see the Lord glorified through the lives of these men, women, and children! We are also grateful for our sponsors, trip participants, donors, and prayer warriors, that help to make this all possible. God is doing a great and mighty work in Carrera de Palma, DR!