UPDATE FOR NOVEMBER 2008

We baptized a "twenty-first century Lydia", like the one in the New Testament (Acts 16:13-15). Ettora Mariotti finally realized the dream of her life to be obedient to the Lord in Christian immersion. This devout Catholic already understood many things from reading the Scriptures. At her baptism, Ettora gave a well thought out, moving testimony, convincing for its freshness, simplicity and depth. She accompanied her spontaneous confession of faith by a confession of sins. It was the first one our people had ever witnessed. These were not the sins of thievery, drunkenness and the like; she confessed spiritual sins like pride, manipulating people, self-will and resisting God?s leadership.
Her confession of faith left a lasting impression on the minds of our people here. There were tears in many eyes, as they saw her submit herself to Christ. When she finished, there was no reason to ask her to repeat a formal question, "Do you believe that Jesus is the Christ??", because her testimony had eloquently answered this question, even better than we could have expressed it ourselves. We rejoice with her; however, she lives near Assisi, a two-hour drive to Matelica, so we pray for someone to assist in the formation of a new congregation in her area, that this "twenty-first century Lydia" may have regular fellowship with other believers too.
Our church people have now sponsored children. Recently, the regional representative of Compassion International visited our church to seek support for Third World children. Our people adopted four children from varying parts of the world, committing themselves to provide regular support and correspondence for these children. This was a significant step of faith for them to take and means that they have grown considerably. Rejoice with us.
Thanks to North Joplin Christian Church. This Missouri congregation is disbanding as a corporate body, and its members will be moving into other churches in Joplin. This move gives us a sense of loss, since we have known this group since 1958 and loved its people. We have many fond memories of these brethren who encouraged us as we went to Italy the very first time in 1964. We are grateful for what they have meant to us over the years. So, even as they disband, through us a portion of their zeal for the Gospel will continue here in Italy, thanks to their faithfulness and love.
Thank you for praying for us. We rejoice in the power of God to surpass the problems we face. He is every bit as faithful, as He promised.
Harold and Enid Fowler