Crato, Brazil

• Professor at Seminário Batista Do Cariri

Tonight I am remembering that it was 50 years ago that I arrived in Brazil, and it just seems like yesterday. I remember the moment I stepped on Brazilian soil I felt like I was home. These have been 50 wonderful years of serving the Lord, and I couldn't have done it without all of your prayers.

Right now I am getting ready to load all the suitcases in my car and take them up to the corner where some ladies and I will be boarding a bus at 10pm for Fortaleza. We will have two buses going to the women's retreat. It begins on the next day, and Antonia and I will be speaking. I have prepared a presentation remembering how God has blessed the women's work in our state. It was a great blessing as I remembered how God's hand has been on our group.

The women are celebrating 50 years too, so we will be celebrating together. I praise the Lord for our women, and today our leaders are my ladies that I have taught down through the years! These are the lives you have invested in.

We will be returning Sunday evening and on Monday getting ready for our Missionary Conference that will begin. So, I will have another full week! Then comes the 8 week exams!

Last week I attended the 25th celebration of one of our churches in Juazeiro. I taught the pastor 40 years ago. His church is big, and supports 10 Brazilian missionaries. The Christian Education director was one of my students too. So, as I look back and see how God has given me the privilege of preparing men and women for the ministry, I can only bow my head and say, "Thank you Lord for this High Calling and for all the dear folk who have kept me before the throne."

Praise the Lord for good health, and the joy of serving Him. Praise the Lord for the rains in this dry desert.

I wish each of you a Happy Easter, and praise the Lord we serve a Risen Savior.

Representing you in Brazil,
Janet McClanahan