Here she comes!

“Here comes the bride!” The church was overfilling with people. Children eagerly pushed their way through the crowd to see the bride. Cheers filled the air as the bride entered the room. Togo weddings are quite the celebratory event. It made me think of what heaven may be like when Christ is united with His bride, the church. Oh, what great joy that day will be!

There have been many little “joy moments” over this past year, and I thank the Lord for each of them. I thank the Lord for Jonas. At the beginning of the school year, he didn’t know how to effectively communicate. He didn’t have a language. There were moments when I become discouraged. “God, is it worth it all the time I am putting into Jonas? Am I really making a difference?” Every week Jonas and I worked. Then a few weeks ago, I pointed to a color. He not only signed the correct color, he voiced it as well! He gave me the biggest smile. Oh, what great joy!

The school year is about to end. I am a little sad because I don’t know if I will see Jonas on a regular basis during the summer. However, I couldn’t be prouder of Jonas. This year he learned his letters, colors, counting and how to better communicate with others. He has his classmates who love him and who have learned some sign as well. I pray that he will continue to grow, learn, and someday understand his need for a Savior.

This month has been full of goodbyes. Five families and individuals whom have become close friends have left for furlough. It wasn't easy to say goodbye, and I miss them. More goodbyes are coming next month.

Please pray for the remaining team that is growing smaller while the workload ever increases. I am reminded of Luke 10:2, where Jesus said, “The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.”

There is plenty of harvest here. What a joy it is for me to be part of the work in Togo! God is at work. Thanks for your prayers and support.

Rejoicing in Him,

Liz Ortiz

Praises

Praise God for the progress Jonas has made!

Praise God for the developing Deaf ministry!

Prayer Requests

Pray for opportunity to work with Jonas in the summer

Pray for teammates going on furlough and teammates remaining in Togo

Pray for an ASL interpreter – big opportunity for one!