We enjoyed our first missions conference at Lighthouse Baptist Church in St. Catherine's, Ontario. The people were so kind with many encouraging words. I feel like we have met some people whose prayers we can count on. There were so many kindred spirits there! Pastor and Mrs. Tourangeau and their children were so hospitable and provided lunch at their home. They already had one missionary staying in their home for the conference. I know that it was a very busy time for them, but they took the time to fellowship with us, and we enjoyed every minute of it! If you ever get a chance to go to their church, I encourage you to do so. You will not be disappointed. I enjoyed everything about it, from the preaching to the food.
A funny thing happened: We had some fellowship on Saturday night with cupcakes and cookies. Then, on Sunday night, Pastor Tourangeau announced that there would be fellowship that night as well. I just happened to be looking at Austin during that time, and he got the biggest smile, and his eyes bugged right out of his head!! He could not believe that there was to be fellowship TWO NIGHTS IN A ROW!!! It was really hard not to burst out laughing right then and there!!

Not only was the preaching and fellowship good, but I came away with some very helpful advice. I don't know if many of you know this, but Alan, Brendin, and I will be travelling to Togo and Ghana in February. Unless the Lord miraculously provides for the other 3 children to come along, we will have to leave them here, spread out in 3 different homes, for 3 WEEKS!! That is an extremely difficult pill for me to swallow!! But this Mrs. Gomes wisely said, "Just think of it this way: At some point, they will be going off to college, and this can be some training for that." I never thought of it that way, but I thank the Lord for putting people in my life to help calm my nerves. I also enjoyed Mrs. Tourangeau's visit. She is a very meek and humble lady who strives to serve the Lord by serving beside her husband, and raising children for God's glory. She was truly a blessing to get to know, and I pray that if we have any down time here in Southern Ontario, that the Lord would bring our paths together.