JULY 2026 PRAYER LETTER
This month has been filled with numerous small victories in our ministry. While some events may appear insignificant, for us, they represent years of work.
One notable achievement was delivering Sunday School materials to Uruguay. We attempted to send materials there two or three years ago, but they got stuck in Argentina due to customs issues and never arrived. A few months ago, the missionary reached out again, needing materials for a new church he intends to establish. Fortunately, a lady from our team was already planning a trip to the area and took the materials with her. We encountered more customs issues, resulting in an additional $400 to have the items released, but ultimately, the missionary now has what he needs.
In June, I was honored to preach at the anniversary service of our third church plant, celebrating eight years of God’s blessing. Among our churches, this one seems to have flourished and matured the most. They have initiated a children's outreach on Saturdays which has resulted in picking up and bringing children and families to church on Sundays. They have recently started supporting their seventh missionary family. They also regularly contribute special offerings for various needs which is huge in this culture. It has been a true joy to witness their growth in faith.
One of the most satisfying events this month was finally receiving our order of the full Guaraní Bibles. This has been a three to four-year project, from purchasing the last available Bibles to receiving these new prints. This marks the first reprint in over 20 years! Many in our churches have never owned a Bible in their heart language, but that is about to change. Additionally, the first 100,000 of our Guaraní scripture portions (John and Romans) have been printed and are ready to be shipped to Bolivia. I was hoping to utilize our new nonprofit to facilitate their entry into the country, but the paperwork is taking some time, so we are exploring the next best options available.
The political situation in Bolivia has improved slightly. The country endured 52 days of blockades that hindered the transport of supplies across the country. Although the blockades are lifted, we are now facing fuel shortages that the government
does not expect to resolve until the end of the month. We were able to send meat with a team passing through our city to assist the pastors in La Paz. Additionally, we sponsored care packages for local churches to distribute to their members and the surrounding community as part of their outreach efforts. As we prepare for a medical team’s arrival, we ask for prayers for wisdom in managing transportation during these challenges.
Regarding the devastating earthquakes in Venezuela and their impact on our churches there, thankfully, none of the 85 churches affiliated with ABMI were harmed, but several indirectly connected to us have faced severe losses. In one particular church, the pastor tragically lost a parent, a step-parent, three siblings, and twelve church members in mere minutes. We have been in communication with our churches daily. As it came in, we sent financial support multiple times over the past few weeks, and the churches have been working tirelessly to provide assistance while also sharing the gospel. They have collaborated with residents and international volunteers who have come to help with the recovery efforts. I have enjoyed watching them create ways to share the gospel with as many as they can through this tragedy. The heartbreaking stories of the children, many of whom were injured or lost their homes and parents, have deeply affected the team. One specific prayer request from the pastor in charge is for the mental health of his congregation, as both young and old have witnessed distressing scenes while recovering bodies and comforting families in mourning. We ask you to pray for this urgent need.
Thank you for taking the time out of your busy schedule to consider the activities in our ministry here in Bolivia. Your continued prayers and support are invaluable and enable us to share the gospel message here in Bolivia and throughout South America.
