August was a Midwest month for us on the road! We presented in churches throughout IA, IL, IN, and WI and had our first meetings with 2-month old Bentlee. The church families were extremely accommodating and helpful with our needs and our son’s needs as we adjusted to traveling with a newborn.
On August 8th, while presenting in Wisconsin, a young couple visiting the church for the first time had spent six months in New Zealand previously. This made quite an impression on them that God would being them to that specific church on that specific Sunday. Pray that Dom would start attending church faithfully!
The opportunities to hear the older generation of preachers has been a highlight of deputation. This month, through meetings and various events, we had the privilege to hear many preachers we grew up listening to. Their example of faithfulness, thirty and forty years in the ministry, is exemplary for us rookies.
Later in the month, we had a special meeting just south of Chicago. In June, I received a call alerting us of incoming support from a church and pastor we had never met. The news came at the perfect time to encourage us! It was our privilege to minister to this church this month.
The month ended as we were spoiled at a conference in Iowa. A layman and his family left us humbled as they waited on us hand and foot all week and spent countless hours handling all the missionaries’ needs. This is one example of men and women we have met across the country who go above and beyond to serve us, when we are attempting to serve them.
A final blessing came while out soul winning outside Indianapolis with a church that has been a mainstay in the community for decades. While witnessing to several couples of various ages that day, it was impressive to meet so many that had been saved through this church at some point over the years. Only in Heaven will we understand the impact of our churches and their witness.
Thank you for your prayers! We are just shy of 60%, with two churches left before we officially reach the twelve-month mark.
God Bless,
Josh, Alyse, and Bentlee Szwarga