Update on Dick

January 25, 2007

Thank you for your prayers. The three-hour surgery on Dick's feet Tuesday went well. The surgeon had to cut into the bones of the feet in three places in order to guarantee that the ulcers would not return. Complete recuperation will take about six months. We are thankful for the good medical attention here in Queretaro, although by American standards it may seem a bit rustic.

Dick also continues his struggle with Parkinson's, his "thorn in the flesh", knowing that "God's strength is made perfect in our weakness." He is surrounded by the loving arms of the young Mexican pastors who think of him as their spiritual father. Seeing him in this weakened state is an emotional shock for them. They come to his bedside to pray, their eyes brimming with tears as they hold on to him, kissing him unashamedly on the cheek and forehead. It seems like a moment of the passing of the torch, of their stepping up to the plate and taking charge.

This past Saturday, prior to Dick's surgery, the Seminary by Extension classes resumed, with an enrollment of twenty enthusiastic students and four excellent teachers. Please keep this strategic ministry in your prayers, that it will be a priority on the agenda of the Presbytery as well as each local congregation and student for the strengthening and equipping of church leaders and pastors.

This coming Saturday, Feb.3, is the children's club in San Felipe/San Jose, which meets the first Saturday of each month. We expect only 500 children, instead of the thousand in January's Samaritans Purse event. May many be reached through this evangelistic effort, that His church may be firmly established in this place.

Meanwhile, we pray for God's provision for funds and folks - funds to construct the buildings for the two new missions (construction teams are an added blessing), and folks to take over the English congregation. The future of the Music/Language/Arts Institute is also a concern. We are seeking God's direction as we investigate various possibilities of a place to accommodate the Institute this July, since the hospital may not be available.

In His care, Ann Dye

January 31, 2007