October 8, 2004

News From Brazil

Below are a couple of paragraphs from the latest prayer letter from the Leonards.

The first is in regard to a prayer request regarding Julie's health. Here is the update:

We received word from the doctor at Mayo Clinic two days ago. He saw the MRI image, classified Julie's tumor as "medium-sized" and recommended that we not wait too long for surgery. She has also been having frequent head and ear aches, so he suggested she have another MRI done to see if the tumor is growing faster than normal. The new MRI showed no alterations in the neuroma, PTL! Our ear doctor made us another diskette and we'll send the images to Dr. Driscoll at Mayo tonight. He also prescribed a pain reliever for when the headaches won't let Julie sleep. There is no sign of a cold or sinus problems, so the pains remain a bit of a mystery. So, we're in the waiting mode again. Please pray that we can determine the type of surgery that will have fewer risks yet still accomplish the task and an approximate date so that we can make some plans.

The second is in regard to the donation for the music building at the seminary. They write:

We received word from some dear friends that their family has chosen to honor their parent's godly influence through a memorial gift to build a Chapel/ Music building on the Seminary campus. Our hearts are overflowing with praise! This providence is so timely, as we are needing added classroom space and we are hoping to develop our music department. This new building will free up the space currently being used as the chapel for classrooms, and it will also provide more classroom space, soundproof practice rooms, a recording studio, and a large chapel. Praise the Lord with us!

Finally, news from a family who was with us in candidate school, and is now on the field (we are so jealous!):

The annual Seminary retreat was held last weekend at the interior camp near Iguatú. This is always a welcome break, allowing us time to spend with the Seminary students. All the graduating seniors give their testimonies during the various services. We had the privilege of hearing Steve Sundberg, a co-worker with BMM, preach. He has only been studying Portuguese for 7 months and did a great job. His courage and efforts were challenging blessings to the entire SBC family.

Congratulations, Steve. Looking forward to having long conversations with you in Portuguese when we arrive!

Posted by Andrew on October 8, 2004 8:08 PM.