SEASONS GREETINGS
At the end of every year a new one begins, and life goes on. By the time many receive this newsletter, Phyllis and I will be back on the field ready to hit the ground running. The following will be some highlights from the field.
Building Projects
The Berea project is coming to completion. As we finish the tasked building, we can fully focus on the more important goal: training our ministerial leaders.
West Coast Growth
Recently there has been a 17% growth rate for the IPAR Conference in 2023. All the numbers have not come in as of this writing, but so far, it is very positive.
Holmes Bible College
One of the reasons for the growth is proper training and evaluation. We are looking forward to getting back and fully participating in the task of helping younger ministers prepare for their calling and service. You’re helping us will help them. Your prayers and giving do make a difference. Praise the Lord!
Guatemala
Guatemala has experienced growth as well. We won't have more details until after the first of 2024. I was there last February for their elections and was asked to speak on church planting this coming February. I am looking forward to the meetings. The brother in the photo is the new superintendent, Walter Almaras.
As mentioned in our last newsletter, this building is in San Luis. The building will be in memory of James and Joyce Ward for their love, dedication, and years of service. James and Joyce were personal friends of Phyllis and me. They left behind a good testimony. If all continues to go well, this building project will be completed soon as well.
The Global Leadership Summit
On November 6-10, The Global Leadership Summit was held in Oklahoma City. Leaders from around the world gathered. Included is a photo of part of the Gulf Coast Region field leaders.
Belize and Advantage Bible College
Belize has for some time needed a robust ministerial training program. Due to lack of field personnel and workload, that goal was a challenge.
We would like to extend Holmes to Belize. However, due to our commitment to excellence and the fact we lack the necessary people in Belize with the necessary degrees to teach, we are hindered currently to expand. Yet, expansion is in the forefront. Nevertheless, we do have another option, Advantage Bible College. We spoke with current president Bill Terry, and he has agreed to work with us. This will help us lay the foundation we need to go forward with the task of helping to educate and train our present and future leaders in Belize. This is a big plus for Belize.
We are moving forward and gaining ground. The future is before us. All we need to do is seize the opportunity. Hallelujah!
THE WORLD ACCORDING TO PHYLLIS
Ron and I are blessed and don't mind saying it. This year we celebrate 50 years of marriage, over 38 years in ministry, 4 grown children and 5 grandchildren. Below is a photo of Amber's two boys.
Yes, they are a handful. I wonder who they take after? We are blessed!
Speaking of Amber, she just finished working on her master’s from Oral Roberts University. Amber, her husband, and the children are doing well.
Through the years, we have been torn between the field and home. We enjoy our family and friends both at home and aboard.
We also appreciate all of those who partner with us. Reaching the lost is a team effort. Doing our part to fulfill the Great Commission is life at its best.
Love and Blessings, Phyllis
IN CLOSING
One day all will pass, and we shall see Him face to face. It still excites me to the point of wanting to run harder than we already do. Why? He is the reason we do what we do, just like He is the reason for the season.
Merry Christmas and a Happy and prosperous New Year! 2024 Here we come!
Thanks and Blessings,
Ron & Phyllis Roy
