Merry Christmas

As we go through the Christmas season here in Mombasa, we suffer with the heat at 90-100 degrees everyday; but this year it seems even worse because we are having an El Nino season so the humidity matches the temperature.

In spite of the weather, we are so thankful that the God of the Universe left Heaven to come as the Baby Jesus, being born in a cold barn with shepherds and sheep as witnesses. The magi came bearing gifts foretelling of his death, which gives all who believe and confess their sins eternal life. Praise God for Jesus sacrifice!

The Smiddy family is once again fragmented this holiday season with Nathan in the States. He is a junior at Herron Art Institute at IUPUI with a major in Furniture Design. With school, work and junior high ministry at Park Chapel Christian Church he is extremely busy, but he will travel to Phoenix for Christmas to visit the Okken family and see a special friend.

Hanna is a senior and has already been accepted to several universities but has made no definite decision. She will return to the States in July 2007 to begin her studies in Political Science. The Rift Valley Academy Girls Basketball Team went undefeated this year. Hanna was once again the starting center and leading rebounder in her league. In January when she returns to school she will begin her Field Hockey season as starting goalie. She also has a heavy academic load.

Jean has been leading the ladies ministries in Bible Study and hospitality. She is also teaching Sunday School and serving as the church Treasurer.

Gary's schedule is much the same as in year's past: preaching, leading men's ministry, teaching at Faith Bible College in Tiwi and overseeing the land preparation for the eventual building of our new church. In addition he is having a lot of knee problems. His right knee must be replaced. We are hoping he can make it till we return to the States this July. Please pray for him.

We have been so blessed to watch God move and build His Church here in Mombasa. We have been witnesses to lives changed and built up in the faith. We so appreciate all of you who hold us up to the Throne and make it possible for us to be here on your behalf. Mungu awabariki! Which means God Bless You in Swahili.

Thanks for all your love, prayers and gifts of support throughout the year. We pray for you and yours that this Christmas will be filled with the love of God and may you enjoy your families as never before.

In Celebration of the One Who is Everything! Have a Wonderful Christmas and Blessed New Year!