MARCH 2018 UPDATE

Hello friends and family, 

Winter has come and gone here and spring is knocking at the door, although there will still be snow in the mountains well into May. While spring prepares her arrival, currently we’re in the midst of a country-wide demonstration against government corruption. Check out this New York Times article for a good summation of all that has happened.  While there is political turmoil where we live, we want to stress that we aren’t in any danger- no one is. These past protests have been peaceful ones - and not just against something that the population disagrees with, but something that is truly for a righteous cause. To be honest, it is exhilarating to be here during the advent of major change for a country we have grown to love. 

Jordan continues to teach at school and enjoys his times with his students, who enjoy his engaging teaching style. Currently all they want to talk about is the unrest here. Addie’s vocabulary has increased dramatically with the help of animal figurines which she enjoys immensely. If we ever forget what a dog looks like or how it sounds, she will be the first person we consult. Natalie’s friend Katka S. (and her son Teddy) continue to try to make plans (it’s difficult with small children) and Katka has paid a couple of visits for worship with us.

December

In December, we had the privilege of celebrating the holiday with the Halustoks, who expected us to come as we are considered family. We enjoyed Slovak foods and traditions for prosperity and health (such as wallets under the bread to encourage enough money or eating a clove of garlic with honey to ensure a healthy year), and of course, presents. As always, the Halustok house was full of food, love and noise. We also enjoyed opening care packages from the States from family and our forever home, Southside Church of Christ. A couple of days afterwards, we hosted a Christmas party complete with singing (Christmas carols and worship songs) and teaching a large group of Slovaks how to play the White Elephant gift exchange. As is expected when such a game is played, chaos and controversy ensued.

January

The following month, the youngest of us would catch some sort of virus and lovingly share it with us, taking at least a week to heal. This process haunted us the entire month or so. As a result, the number of Jordan’s personal Bible studies and our Tuesday home Bible study/prayer meetings were reduced. But we did get to enjoy the humble snowfall we received. It was still a new experience for Addie.

February

In February, we once again attended the Advanced Bible Study Series, a yearly retreat set in Germany, held for those in various mission fields as well as those hungry for the Word. New friends were made as well as the chance of catching up with old ones. Jordan was one of the speakers and presented three talks entitled “The Word of the Cross.” He was also one of the cooks during his down time - his Slovak Christmas soup and fried rice had no complaints. Even though it was quite cold (and Addie fought off another cold that entire week), our hearts were warmed by fellowship with each other. Already we’re looking forward to next year.

Coming Up

At the end of this month we look forward to a Kosičan Easter retreat in the Tatras, where Jordy will speak on topics similar to what he spoke on during ABSS, and we may attempt an easter egg hunt in the snow. The following month we will have the privilege of meeting with the church in Cologne, Germany, where Jordy will speak during a weekend workshop. We are still expecting our spring and summer visitors from the States, and hope to go on furlough in the fall. 

Praise and Prayer Requests

For a long while, Jordy has had some health issues related to something he suspected was an autoimmune disorder. After a physical at the doctors it was quickly discovered that he has Hashimoto’s disease, which can cause hypothyroidism along with a host of other issues. The good news is that he can start a diet and medication that should mitigate most of the symptoms and improve quality of life. We are thankful that he has some answers and confident that he will feel better soon.

We also ask that you continue to remember the church here in Slovakia, as well as friends associated with it. Our friend D is struggling with life choices that have not only affect himself but those close to him. Also, our sweet friend M is struggling with anxiety and depression.

We know that each of you have your own struggles and complications in life, and please know that we have heaven covered for you as best as we can. As always, we are so grateful for your love, support, and curiosity in our work. God bless you and keep you.