Time flies… The school year began here at Vianópolis Schools on August 7th, even though we didn’t feel quite ready to start. We have 26 students enrolled this year in grades 3-12. This is a good increase from the 18 we had last year. It’s a good group of kids and we praise the Lord for the privilege we have in being a part here.
The wedding… On Sept. 2nd John & Melanie participated as “padrinhos” (“witnesses”) in a Brazilian wedding. We walked up the aisle and then got to sit down up front with the other 38 “witnesses” for the almost 2 hour long ceremony. It was similar to a North American wedding, with a few variations as well as some personal touches, just like we personalize our weddings. It was a really special and beautiful ceremony and we believe God was glorified. (Read details about the bride and groom in our last August news.) Please pray for this new little family! (Doesn’t she look like she could be their mommy?!)
Growing up… BJ (15) is so pleased he has passed the 6-foot height! (Mom is feeling a little short next to her little boy…!) His next goal is to pass up Dad at 6’2”! At the rate he’s going, it won’t be long! Bethany (13) is growing rapidly, too, and is quickly catching up to Charity (16) who has stopped growing at 5’5”. Joshua (almost 11) is growing slow and steady…
Extended family… Every 3 weeks, the boarding kids have a chance to go home for the weekend, if home is close enough to do so. There are always some, though, whose home is too far away to go for a weekend, so we try to have some of these kids over to our place when we can. The first going home weekend we had one senior girl stay over who usually goes home but her parents happened to be in the States. This last going home weekend we had 2 brothers here. We enjoy having the kids over and, of course, our kids enjoy having their friends whenever possible.
Our partners-YOU… Once again, thank you so much for partnering with us in our lives and ministry through prayer. We know many of you also give sacrificially so we can serve the Lord here, and for that we are truly grateful.
May the God of all peace richly bless you,
John & Melanie, Charity, BJ, Bethany & Joshua Kerstetter
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