Dear Pastor and Church family,

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.”

On January 9, we left the States for a visit to our future home in Peru. This was my third trip to Peru, but Sarah’s first. On the day we left to come back to the States, Sarah’s exact words about our survey trip were, “At first I wasn’t sure I wanted to come, but now that we are leaving, I am sure I want to stay.”

During the time of our visit, the Lord greatly expanded our vision for our future ministry in Peru. Our future home in Peru will be at a place known as EFATA. EFATA is a special place that is made up of a Baptist church, a Christian school, and a home for Deaf children. Once we arrive in Peru to stay, Efata will become our “base of operations.” Efata also serves as a training center for missionaries and pastors who have a burden to reach the deaf in other areas of South America. We will be able to have a part in encouraging existing ministries to the deaf. We will also be able to help establish new ministries to the deaf. At Efata, we will have a part in training deaf children, young people, and adults to serve the Lord. It was amazing to us to realize how much more God can use us when we let go of our own plans, and follow His plans completely!

Belisario

I would like to introduce you to two young men who have grown up at Efata. I met each of these young men when I worked at Efata for three months in 2002.

Even back in 2002, Belesario was a clown! Now he uses his God-given talents to show the dangers of sin and the joy of salvation.

When I met Freddy, he had just come from a life on the streets. He was an ornery little rascal! Since he has been saved, he has become a good, calm, and obedient young man.

Freddy

What a special blessing it was to me to see how God has changed the lives of these two young men!

Some of you may not have known that we were expecting our first child. Sarah was about 5 weeks along when we arrived in Peru. The Lord saw fit to take our first child Home to be with Him on Saturday, January 12. We know God’s plan is perfect and we rejoice that our first child is in Heaven with Sarah’s Mom, as well as many other saints.

We praise the Lord for all He has done for us! Thank you all for partnering with us in God’s great plan! We love and appreciate each one of you.

Your servants for Christ’s sake,

Matt & Sarah McKendree
Ps. 119:11