We wanted to begin this letter by thanking those of you who sent the extra donations and support for Christmas last month. We are always humbled by the generosity of the many churches and individuals who give sacrificially to our ministry. We take note of every amount that is given each month and pray for each church and individual on a weekly basis. To those who follow our ministry and are not in a place to support us financially, don’t feel left out! As we scan our list of newsletter recipients, we have the privilege of hearing from a great majority of you and sharing your burdens in prayer as well.
While on this topic, I would like to mention a family prayer request. Many of you either know or know of my dad, Steve Szwarga. Many of you have requested updates on his health and he has open heart surgery officially scheduled for February 16. We ask for your prayers leading up to that day and also as he recovers in the following weeks. We do not take the space in our newsletter lightly and try to refrain from loading it with personal details, but we feel it’s appropriate to mention this need considering the connection most of our prayer and financial supporters have with him.
There appears to be light at the end of the tunnel for immigration restrictions in New Zealand as we have seen March mentioned as the supposed date for visa applications to reopen. We understand that nothing is certain until it actually comes to pass but we are eagerly waiting to see if that date is held to, which would be a great answer to prayer. Also, please pray for a potential building opportunity for Grace Independent Baptist Church in New Zealand.
Our financial support has continued to increase smoothly and as projected. We are currently at 87%.
It was a blessing to see several guests in services this month. God set up a “divine appointment” with a hotel receptionist in Wisconsin who attended services the next day. While in Michigan, a couple visited after simply receiving a gospel tract the day before.
Thank you for praying, giving, and sharing the gospel where you are. We appreciate your partnership for Christ.
God Bless,
Josh, Alyse, and Bentlee Szwarga