We bring you special greetings as we begin the Advent season. In Baja California, Mexico, it is as busy a time as across the border in the United States. Calendars seem to be more than booked with get-togethers, fiestas and church services. The Baja Christmas celebrations reflect border influences with decorations, lights, trees and music from the north, blended with traditional Mexican celebrations complete with tamales and the "posada," a reenactment of Mary and Joseph searching for a room upon arrival in Bethlehem.
It is a time when the commercial element often reigns. It is also a time when family comes to the fore. So in all that busies, even muddies the celebration of the birth of Christ, may we hold fast to that which reflects the brighter side of Christmas celebration. In this spirit, we share with you notes about our family.
Our eldest, Rebekah, graduated with a degree in nursing from Point Loma Nazarene University in May. She is now living in Laguna Niguel, California where she works the night shift at a hospital. As she contemplates beginning a Master's program, Fuller Seminary is high on her list as she will be able to combine her nursing with theological/missiological studies.
Anna is a junior at Alma College in Michigan. Her double major in dance and pre-occupational therapy makes for an interesting combination as she shuffles between the cadaver lab and ballet practices. A ‘dream' role recently came her way as she danced the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Snow Queen in the Nutcracker.
A senior in High School, Aaron is immersed in college entrance testing, applications and senior activities. He is a member of the school's show choir and will be heading for Germany, Austria and the Czech Republic come April.
The youngest of our family, Daniel, is now in seventh grade. It has been a very good year for him. He has a full-time aide who accompanies him to each class, most of which are special day classes, but also includes participation in general classes. His love continues to be theater where he has now been a cast member in eight Christian Youth Theater presentations.
........Educational needs and decisions as to place and course of study are prime concerns for all four kids. We appreciate your prayers.
Patti began a new ministry in September. She now spends Monday mornings in Tijuana, teaching English at the Deborah Project, an outreach by the Baja Baptist Women to abused and neglected women and children. Tim continues with his ministry in equipping leaders through the theological education program of the Baja Baptist Convention. There is no greater joy for Tim than to witness and be a part of God's calling and forming of servant leaders for His church.
It's great to be a part of a broader family as well. We speak particularly of our American Baptist missionary colleagues who also serve in Baja California, Mexico. During the past three years three families have joined us in ministry on this peninsula of northwest Mexico. Joyce and David Reed (sons Ian and Aaron) are serving the churches of the southern Baja. Ray and Adalia Schellinger-Gutiérrez (daughters Michelle and Melissa) live in Tijuana and work with the Deborah Project. And Rick and Mercy Barnes (children Aida, Rich, and Joshua) live in the Mexicali area and focus on church planting.
........We will all be gathering for a retreat in the mountains of San Diego County over New Year´s week. Please pray for all of our ministries and continued collaboration as we witness in different ways and ministries to Immanuel, God with us.
Tim and Patti Long
