For Unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given… and his name shall be called… Wonderful, Counselor, Might God, Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace. Isaiah 9:6

Merry Christmas!

The Christ child is the greatest gift of all. The excitement of gifts, programs, the lights and decorations and festivities all dim in the presence of the Christ Child.

Just a few things to update on since our last prayer letter. Early in November, We took a trip to Missouri for a long weekend to spend time with Penny’s siblings. Her brother, Rick has some health issues that don’t allow him to travel so we all went to him. What a great time of memories, story telling and laughter.

A couple of weeks later we went to Colorado for an early Thanksgiving with Bob’s brother and family and a funeral of the last, remaining owner of the ranch that Bob grew up on. Friendships were renewed and many memories shared. There were so many moments of reflecting on God’s blessings and faithfulness and so much time to reflect on God’s perfect working through flawed, imperfect people. And to know there is so much more to look forward to as we will one day see our Savior face to face and bow before Him and confess “Jesus is
Lord” with an even fuller understanding.

We also had the opportunity to update two supporting churches, meeting the new pastor of one of the churches. These two churches have been very supportive over the years and we appreciate the love, prayers and financial support greatly.

Mountain View is experiencing another change. Caleb, who has been with us four and a half years as the youngest associate pastor, will be leaving in February. Pray for us as we seek another young man that can be a part of the ministry here and that we can be a part of his life in helping him grow in his ministry skills and in general. We wish Pastor Caleb well on his new ministry endeavor, initially as an associate pastor but soon to transition into a lead position.

There has been a distinct difference in the celebrations of the holidays here in Grantsville this year. Grantsville city decided to make a contest among the businesses on decorating for Halloween. The theme was using skeletons. Every day we saw very elaborate decorations going up on Main Street. The enthusiasm for celebrating the death and dark side of Halloween was prominent for about six weeks. Last week, Grantsville city put up fake
Christmas trees outside these same businesses to be decorated. At this moment, only about 1/2 of those businesses have taken the time and /or interest to decorate the trees. What a contrast! They could so willingly celebrate a season that focuses on Satan and yet not put the effort into a celebration of Christ. This has been very interesting as Utah considers itself a very religious state with the LDS church influence. The root of that influence seems to be evident on the streets.

As we move through the Christmas season we have many important activities planned. Please pray that Christ will be exalted above all and that many would begin to see the wonder and the greatness of Immanuel, “God with us” and that it would truly capture our hearts and bring us to our knees before the one who is truly God. Pray that the preaching of the Word will be done in a way that opens truths of the Gospel.

As we look ahead to the new year, 2025, we ask for clarity as we evaluate direction and next steps to be taking to reach this community for the Lord. Thanks so much for your prayers, love and support. We serve a great God!