Missionaries have worked in evangelism and church planting efforts in northern Argentina since 1957. These ministries are now spreading out over several provinces with nearly 30 new churches rapidly maturing. Paul's main responsibilities have been in the downtown church plan in Santiago del Estero.
Here's the latest news from the Hills:
Rains this year came late, many goats in the country did not make it. It is really sad to see such an active and bright animal lay down because of the lack of food to never get back up. Some of our brothers and sisters in the country lost 40-60 % of herds! To top things off husbands and sons left for the summer to follow their annual migrant jobs. Women and small children were left alone to fend for themselves. Some, like Mónica, are strong and do well, but others like Juana are not as strong and don’t have the strength to cut food for the animals. Yet we never hear complaints, just a wonderful positive attitude and an endearing expectation for husbands and sons to come back.
When the rains came they came abundantly and from the dusty brown landscape rose a bright and vibrant dark green vegetation that is even greener than normal. As I visited last week all the animals looked strong, healthy and well fed.
Heat was a major factor this summer and between all the water (we got 48 mm in 2.5 hrs this last Tuesday!), and the heat, Santiago seems to slow down to a standstill. Ministry seems to slow down also and those who can afford to travel do. Church activities are minimalized and we tend to go into a holding pattern. Yet in spite of the natural order of things this last month has been exciting because we are seeing many new people in church, this last Sunday there were 12 new people! Thank you for your prayers we are excited and humbled by what God is doing! God is up to something and we covet your prayers; that me might as a church be aware of what is happening and that we might take advantage of His favor.