We are expanding the team
Anna, Eliza and I have arrived safely. Over the past couple of months, Anna and I have been studying the language while setting up our new home and learning the culture as a family. Even baby Eliza has been readjusting to life without her grandparents. But she is still the sweet, friendly little baby, trying to wave at anyone who will take notice.
The language school we’re attending has been wonderful! A handful of the teachers are actually pastors, and they are passionately teaching missionaries to help reach this country for His name’s sake.
Our family has been visiting local pastors in the new city where we’re planted, and we’ve even been able to visit some we knew before. Many are asking us for more ministry time than we’re able to offer while we focus on the language full time, but that will come in God’s time. We’ve been able to preach, pray for the sick, and boldly proclaim the name of Jesus. Soon we will take a short break from language study to lead a 5-day seminar on the Holy Spirit.
We’re so grateful to be an extension of your hands, helping to reach people who don’t know Jesus. Our prayer is that they will be blood-washed by the forgiveness of Jesus Christ!
Our family has a lot of exciting events coming up next year. First, a MAPS worker whom we personally know and love from our church in Columbus will be joining us here for a couple of months next year. Julisha will be soaking in as much ministry, language, and culture as her heart desires! She may also be one of the first of our family and friends to meet our new baby. Yes, you read that right! Our family will be 4 strong in February next year. Our hearts are already so full with our first precious gift, Eliza, who is already a natural-born missionary with her caring heart and friendly demeanor.
Thank you for your prayers during this season for Anna’s health, as her first trimesters have never been easy. She has had to spend most of her hours lying in bed, too sick to eat or drink. Anna has gone to the ER a few times because of dehydration from not being able to keep fluids down. One of those nights really scared us, as she was throwing up blood. Thankfully, we’ve made some progress since then. She hasn’t had to visit the ER in a few weeks, but things are still difficult. We really appreciate your prayers, and feel free to email us back with a short word of encouragement for Anna.
Because they haven’t heard,
Justin & Anna Gilpin
Prayer Needs
- Anna’s health
- Grace as we study Tagalog
- Ministry and local churches
- That people would encounter Jesus and be transformed