December 2009 Report

December 2009

I. Assembly Measures



The numbers are actually higher than expected. In previous years, total attendance would go down to 75 in December, due to many families taking school vacation.

I shared the preaching responsibilities with three brothers during the month. One of them is Andrés Hernánez, 24, an engineer. After his message, seven people came forward asking for prayers, and Andrés was able to minister to them without my assistance. Andrés is one of the leaders of the Youth Group.

Contribution for the month was $1433,76. Expenses went up to $2.287,73.



Auxiliadora, already mentioned in previous reports, passed way on December 30th. When her name was first brought up to our attention, we were told that this could happen anytime. Her sister, a member of the church in Managua, Nicaragua, called Damaris Astorga to let her know about Auxiliadora living in Heredia, and needing Bible studies. Her sister was afraid that she would die without having met the Lord. Damaris in turn called me, and soon she was studying with us and attending the Sunday evening worship services. Before she was baptized she was instrumental in the baptism of three ladies, two of which are still faithful (see more about Auxiliadora in the August, 2009 report).

III. Miscellaneous Narrative

We continue to have meetings on Wednesdays at 6:00 a.m. The last time we had this meeting, there were 4 men. During these meetings we are now praying for our spiritual needs (Hebrew 3:12, 13). These meetings are very effective to help us stay focused on our spiritual growth.

The meetings on Saturdays at 5 p.m. when we study “The Measure of a Man” (the 20 biblical requirements for elders), have been attracting up to 15 men. During the last month we paid special attention to assuming responsibilities like visiting the sick (James 5:14, 15). So, a special effort was made to coordinate these visits, and many blessings were enjoyed as the people visited were encouraged and responded with thanksgiving and faithfulness.

The Youth Group had a Camp activity of three days in La Fortuna, near the Arenal Volcano. 22 members from Heredia and 6 from La Fortuna attended. Raquel Ulate coordinated the activity, and carried it out with Andrés Hernández, Rebeca Ulate, and Julio Torrentes, the other Youth Group leaders.