Dear friends and family,
What an incredible year it has been. Though most of it was spent in the States due to medical issues, we are thrilled at what the Lord has done and continues to do throughout our lives and the wonderful ministry He has allowed us to serve in. I do not understand everything that has happened on many fronts this past 2025, but it reminds me of a wonderful verse that God has given us to ponder:
“The secret things belong unto the LORD our God: but those things which are revealed belong unto us and to our children for ever, that we may do all the words of this law” – Deuteronomy 29:29
Ministry News
As I mentioned on our last prayer letter, our home Pastor Bob Ossewaarde was able to come for a wonderful Bible Conference in November. After my return to the States with him to finish my physical therapy, I was able to help another one of my supporting churches with preparing a Pulpit Committee as they began their search for a new pastor as the former pastor retired. That was such a joy and I am encouraged that they are on a good path.
After my return to Peru on Dec. 24th, I was able to enjoy Christmas with my family and our folks at Efata. I arrived in Lima 10 minutes before midnight, and as we were driving home from the airport, we were able to enjoy the fireworks across the vast city.
A few days later, we had our Bible College graduation for two students. One, Isaí Vásquez is preparing for his ordination which will be in February. The church will also be commissioning him and sending him and his family out as missionaries.
Missionaries Isaí and Hope Vasquez and their Children
On the land dispute issue with the municipality of Callao, the judge that is overseeing the court case has issued an injunction halting the mayor’s attempt to take our land. In March or April, we are expecting a final sentence declaring the mayor’s resolution to nullify the donation resolutions from 1984 and 1985 null and void. With that sentence, we will then be able to sue for our title rights. Please continue in prayer for this process.
We have many things going on in the next two months – VBS, Couples retreat, and Family Camp for Deaf and hearing. We also have the Fires of Evangelism/Pastor’s School and Youth Conference coming up in February. This is the first year the three conferences are combined. It has been a blessing working with International Baptist Church in support of this conference.
Pastor Jorge Pozo, our Deaf Pastor here at Efata was able to go to the Deaf World Congress in Japan with Go Deaf Missions led by our close friend John Olson. One of our Deaf young ladies was able to go with their team as well. They truly had an eye and heart-opening experience witnessing and meeting Deaf from all over the world.
Please pray for our dear missionary friends Rafael and Erika Ramirez in the Caracas area of Venezuela. They were very close to the bombings of one of the bases. Rafael has a ministry to the military there and said that this base is one of the ones he preaches at on a regular basis. He has been unsuccessful in contacting the Colonel who facilitates his ministry there and many of the buildings were destroyed. He has asked for help to purchase food for his family, the church people and for many Deaf that cannot afford the costs there. Please pray for stability where he ministers, last I spoke to him, he only goes out for essentials as it is dangerous with the gangs on the loose. If you would like to send a special love offering to help him, please designate it for “Efata-Venezuela” through Macedonia.
Family News
I am almost completely healed from my shoulder surgery and have had no further issues with my heart. Still adjusting to my “new eyes” from the cataract surgery. I am grateful for all of your prayers and support through this physical time of repair and healing.
Jessica is still dealing with her swelling and headache issues. If anything, it has been worse lately. We have taken her to another couple of doctors, and they seem to be taking her case more seriously and ordering different tests to see what they can find. Please continue to pray for her.
We are all happy to be home and as of the writing of this letter busy, involved in Vacation Bible School.
As always, thank you for all your prayers and support. I want to give a special thanks to all who have sent us Christmas wishes and offerings. You richly bless our hearts. The kids are excited because they now have the funds to go to camp this year because of your care for us.
Blessings,
Joe & Lisa
Joel, Jessica, Jennifer