(See related photos at end of newsletter.)

GREETINGS!
It has been a while since our last newsletter.  We deeply appreciate your continued prayers for Nicaragua and the Father Heart Team.

Christmas Goings-on
Christmas at the Youth Center is always exciting and joyful because the children receive special food and gifts that their families cannot provide for them at home.  This year was outstanding.  Nearly 300 children, young and old, got to attend a jolly party with a delicious Christmas meal, cupcakes and ice cream, and generous gifts.  To top off the festivities, the staff also put on a fine Christmas play.  Many thanks to all of you who gave so this could happen!

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Orlando's Mother
Orlando's mother recently suffered two strokes and a ruptured brain aneurysm.   In fact, it is literally a miracle that she is alive. She underwent a six-hour operation, but is now home from the hospital, where her daughter is caring for her through extensive recovery, treatments, and physical therapy.

No one in the family has work, as she faces medical bills and related expenses.  There is a photo of Orlando and his mother at the end of this letter.  Please take a moment to lift her up in prayer.  And, if you should feel led to give towards her time of need -- and/or to help others in need through Mercy Ministry -- there is information in the "How to Give" section below.

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Send a Child to School
We were able to give out over 300 scholarships for students -- preschool through university -- to attend school.  This was our most challenging year ever, but despite the setbacks, the program was a success.  Lubianka, who gave her life to Jesus in our program as a child, and who is now in her last year of university, shared her powerful testimony with the students.

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Meet Aaron
Aaron grew up in a bad neighborhood, but he was determined in his heart that his life would be different.  From the first day he came to the Youth Center, he was always respectful and attentive.  He received a scholarship through our Send a Child to School program and became a licensed electrician.  Now he is continuing his education with a major in Electrical Engineering.

Aaron attended our classes on Knowing God as Father and Time with God.  And, though his conversion was not an emotional one, God was transforming him on the inside.  He has a gift of serving and is one you can count on.

In his quiet way, Aaron has grown in confidence and authority.  He now teaches Bible to the older boys' class at the Youth Center, and has also stepped right up to the plate doing office work -- handling the scholarships and communications with the many students and parents.  We are very proud of Aaron!

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Thank You

We can't thank you all enough for your prayers, encouragement, and support.  It means a lot to us and to our team to have partners holding us up.  We love you in the Lord!

Blessings in the Lord,
    - Revs. Brad and Ruth Brown

"Love never fails."  I Corinthians 13:8
 

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