October Update

Hello Friends and Family,                                                        October 2013

It is with joy that I write to keep you updated about what God did here this summer and what he is doing this fall in Caraballo, Dominican Republic!

This summer, Caraballo had the opportunity to host seven weeks of teams. Teams helped with construction, painted, organized donations, put on various VBS programs, supported our summer program, conducted a teacher training, had a sewing training for older girls, and there was even a dental team working on our kids’ teeth! Caraballo also welcomed a summer intern who was a huge blessing and help to our program. Needless to say, there was a lot going on here!

It was a joy to meet lots of new people and introduce them to the exciting ministry here in Caraballo. I loved seeing team members connect with kids and get excited about what God is doing around the world! Summer also came with its share of challenges, as I was the person in charge of hosting these teams. I am grateful that the Lord gave me the daily strength, wisdom, and love to do my job.

At the end of July, Kids Alive leadership graciously gave me the opportunity to go home for the month of August for rest and recuperation. This was much needed and very helpful for me as I geared up for another school year in Caraballo. It also worked out great because the care center is closed for the month of August. I’m grateful I didn’t miss out on anything!

I returned to the DR the first week of September excited about what God is doing here. I am continuing in my Sponsorship Coordinator role and as the school nurse. I have transitioned from being the main team host and I think this will be a good setup for me for this school year.

I have loved getting to know the students better through sponsorship. We recently finished a letter project that gave me insights into what kids would do on a day off, what they want to be when they grow up, and what they would like their sponsors to know. I am encouraged by the BIG DREAMS these students have. I know that God is doing a mighty work here in ways that I can see and in ways that He only knows. I entrust these kids and their big dreams into the hands of our Faithful Father, praying that they continue to follow him day by day.

Finally, I rejoice that as of October 2^nd, I have lived in the Dominican Republic one full year. Praise the Lord for his faithfulness to me during each minute of these past 365 days. I am amazed as I reflect on all the ways He has helped me and equipped me to do life and ministry here. I am forever grateful to you my supporters for holding me up in prayer and encouragement, and for your generous partnership in giving so that I can be here to love these kids for the sake of Jesus Christ.

Dios Te Bendiga (God Bless You!)

Emily Bill