Hola!! It seems we have neglected our updates a bit and we are sorry, but it has been an exciting and very full month. Speaking of which, we can't believe it is September!
I am always amazed at where God leads us and how he provides for us. Over the past 5weeks, Joe and I participated in 3 more Rock the River events in St Louis, Quad Cities, and Minneapolis/St. Paul. The Holy Spirit worked wonders in all of the cities giving Franklin grace and guidance in his talks as well as the band members. Lacy from Flyleaf was so awesome, she is so articulate!!!!
I(Melissa) started my job at the end of July. I am working as a field assistant with the BGEA. It has been very different and exciting from what I have done the last 2 years, but I praise God for answering our prayers and providing me with a job with-in the Project.
We signed the lease and opened the My Hope PR office August 12. Their are currently 5 staff trained and working, with 2 more in the process of being hired. We are still searching for a few more but we have a great team so far. We have loved getting to know them and work with them.
Several weeks ago we also had a photo shoot with Puerto Ricans for our materials, and those pictures are currently being placed and worked with by a graphic designer who is preparing all materials for printing.
This project has had many firsts for Joe and I, though it is our third project together, we have never been a part of planning and follow through this early on. In other countries we arrive to staff and a office that is already functioning. We know that God only gives us what we can handle and that he uses things, people, and instances to stretch and deepen our faith, and for each of those we are so grateful. We always knew he didn't promise it would be easy and it has truely been some very trying moments at times, but as long as we are faithful, he provides!!!
I hope all of you will join Joe and I in praising God for all he has done in Puerto Rico already, but also we are asking for your prayers....
Please pray for the finance team, for continued unity in the office, travel and safety (I will be travelling to San Diego at the end of the week, to spend some time with my sister Bethany and my grandmother. And Joe will be travelling to the Dominican Republic in 2 weeks)
For God's guidance with a production company in Puerto Rico/Dominican Republic.
We thank you and love you all!!
