São Paulo & Paraná Churches Gather in Marília
Jud and Raquel Hatcher serve the Lord in São Paulo, Brazil. They are part of the “SeedFactory” church planting initiative, which is a movement to plant churches in all 26 Brazilian capitals. Since 2006, 43 churches have been started in 5 states.
October 26, 2018
Dear friends,
The Lord is doing some amazing things around us and we are so grateful for all He is doing.
Family
We were growing uneasy with the education the kids were receiving, despite the local public school being one of the best in São Paulo. Through a series of rapid events we were able to enroll our children in an American Christian private school. The kids went through the assessments and necessary interviews to start and are loving their new school. We are now on the American academic calendar which facilitates when we travel to and from the States, as their academic school year will no longer be goofed. We are grateful to the BFM directors as they worked with and assisted us in the process of making this decision.
The school is located on the other side of town and with morning rush hour it took 1 hour and 40 minutes to arrive. The Lord again showed us His hand of grace and provided a good house. The first day of school was also our move-in to the house. We are now three minutes away by car.
The school has a great athletic program. Sarah and Laura are on the JV basketball team and Benjamin is in the boy’s soccer team. Melissa is learning how to play basketball. We are overjoyed with the academic and athletic attention our kids are receiving.
Raquel is working hard at making our new house a home. I admire her “can do” attitude as we work together in this home and school transition with the kids.
Ministry
I recently had the privilege to serve as the key-note speaker at the Baptist Faith (informal) Association of São Paulo and Paraná churches. These were churches started by John Hatcher and Odali Barros during their ministries in that region. Churches from all over drove into the city of Marília for this holiday event. The event was organized by Baptist Faith Church, led by Pastor Gilberto Stefano. Gilberto was mentored in pastoral ministry by Grandpa and he is a tremendous leader. There were 588 people in attendance. Marilía is a 5-hour drive from the capitol. I went and returned on the same day to fulfill my other commitments in São Paulo. It was a sweet, sweet day and it was amazing to see so many friends.
Our move still allows us to continue working with the three home gatherings in the other part of the city. It also allows us to expand. In this next phase we are looking to lease a meeting hall or school for church gatherings. I met yesterday with a pastor whose English speaking church does not use their facilities on Sunday evenings and sent a lease proposal for their consideration for us to use the space on Sunday nights and once a week. The location is situated near two subway stations of a recently inaugurated train line. If the Lord opens this door, this will be our new base and training center. Our team is coming into place too. We have a worship leader and a “knows everyone” leader that will compose our leadership team. Pray for us as we wait for the decision to lease the church’s facility.
Grateful always,
Jud Hatcher
Judson & Raquel Hatcher
(859) 544-9040
judsonhatcher@gmail.com
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A Look at Philippians 1 through the Eyes of 6 Brazilian Leaders in Training
Jud and Raquel Hatcher serve the Lord in São Paulo, Brazil. They are part of the “SeedFactory” church planting initiative, which is a movement to plant churches in all 26 Brazilian capitals. Since 2006, 43 churches have been started in 5 states.
July 12, 2018
Dear friends,
FAMILY
We are in the middle of the Winter Season in Brazil and students receive a month break between school semesters. So, our children are enjoying it as best as possible, despite the cold. We praise the Lord for their first semester grades as it reflects their dedication and hard work at school. Everyone is in good health, except for Benjamin (10 yrs). He has a dry cough that is lasting several months and doctors have not found the cause or solution. Melissa (6 yrs) lost two of her baby teeth last week. Everyone will go to the dentist this month for routine dental check-up.
The Hatcher Family celebrating the 4th of July at Ibirapuera Park.
MINISTRY
The three homes where we meet weekly with folks are doing well. The home church concept is sinking in well with the new believers. The “need” for a temple is still something most struggle with, especially those with a strong Catholic background. There is always some rotation of people, but as a rule those who are maturing in their faith are increasingly engaged and reaching out to friends and family. I am currently counseling four couples and am encouraged that they have reached out for help. I have one-on-one discipleship with six men that are in preparation to assist in leading their home church. We are currently going through the book of Philippians. Look at what we developed:
30 Action Principles to Live an Extraordinary Life in the Eyes of God. (Extracted from Philippians 1)
- Greet and treat people gracefully.
- When you think of a person, break out in exclamations of thanksgiving to God.
- Make each exclamation a trigger to pray for them.
- Pray with a glad heart.
- Bless and encourage people to flourish.
- Express and demonstrate gratitude to those who assist you through tough times.
- Love people like Christ does – love much, love well, love sincerely & love intelligently.
- Live a life Jesus will be proud of: bountiful in fruits from the soul. Live a circumspect and exemplary life.
- Make Jesus Christ attractive to all – be contagious!
- Allow hardship to have the opposite of its intended effect.
- Glow & shine, Jesus’ message does prosper.
- Pique people’s curiosity by living joyfully, especially when in hardship.
- Speak fearlessly about God, about the Messiah.
- Don’t be jealous of those who seek the spotlight, even if they think they are taking advantage of you.
- Cheer people on, even if they have ulterior motives for speaking of Jesus.
- Rejoice, keep celebrating; for we know how this life on earth finishes.
- Pray faithfully and respond generously.
- Trust that everything the Lord wants to do in and through you will be done.
- Don’t expect to be embarrassed in the least.
- Continue the course, live for Jesus.
- Hardship shouldn’t shut you up, it should be your pulpit.
- Make Philippians 1.21 your life verse: “for to me to live is Christ, and to die is truly gain”.
- Consistently benefit others, more than benefiting yourself.
- Be a great companion. Look forward to being with people, to praise Christ and enjoy each other.
- Influence people in such a way that it becomes a credit to the Message of Christ.
- Maintain a righteous conduct, whether someone important is looking, or not.
- Stand united with your brothers and sisters, contending for people’s trust in the Message.
- Don’t be frightened in the slightest by the opposition.
- Be courageous and focused, the power of God is with you. There is victory in Jesus!
- Trust in Christ and suffer for Him. Suffering is as much a gift as the trusting.
TRUCKERS’ CHAOTIC PROTEST
On Wednesday (May 23rd) at 6pm, the kids and I drove onto the São Paulo beltway to attend my birthday party at another part of town. This 15-minute drive on the expressway turned into lengthy nightmare. We found ourselves stuck in traffic for over 3 hours in a stretch only 4 miles long. Truck drivers were protesting at the exit we needed. There was no access to make a U-turn and try a different route. It was “stop and go” on the four lanes headed south. Truckers were upset at the diesel fuel price increase and were blocking the roads. I was able to make a U-turn 4 miles past the protest, but due to blockades on other roads my only option was to drive back into the main protest. It was faster on the way back as the Military Police were had arrived at the scene. Well, we missed the party and returned home. I sang “Happy Birthday” with the kids and ate cake upon arriving at the house. Raquel was already at the location we were trying to get to. She returned home the next morning.
On Thursday, school bus drivers and motorcycle delivery drivers announced they would also join the protests. Chaos was everywhere in São Paulo. The truckers’ strike lasted over a week. Distribution of all products came to a halt. Ten days into the protests oil refinery workers nationwide announced they would go on strike for 72 hrs. Gas stations went almost a week without fuel. Before running out, some stations were charging up to US$12.00/gallon. When the gas station in our neighborhood received fuel after midnight, little did they know that by 7am a line would form that was over 2 miles long. Each person limited to 5 liters. By 4pm, they sold out. The grocer next door to the station said there were multiple fights throughout the day.
Most schools were closed for at least 4 days. There were several riots and tire burning blockades by protesters on main roads and highways during this time. Grocery stores had no produce and hardly any meat. We were stuck at home for 6 days.
Despite the chaos, the population in general were in favor of the strike against the diesel fuel tax increase.
Prayer Requests
- For Benjamin to recover from his dry cough.
- For our children to have a fun and safe winter break.
- For our family’s safety.
- For Evangelism, discipleship and leadership development.
- For new host homes.
Thank you for your love and support.
Grateful always,
Judson Hatcher
Judson & Raquel Hatcher
(859) 544-9040
judsonhatcher@gmail.com
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Praying for People to Turn to Jesus Amongst Political Discord
Jud and Raquel Hatcher serve the Lord in São Paulo, Brazil. They are part of the “SeedFactory” church planting initiative, which is a movement to plant churches in all 26 Brazilian capitals. Since 2006, 43 churches have been started in 5 states.
January 24, 2018
Dear friends,
Angry Riots
The Brazilian ex-president (commonly referred to as “Lula”) from the Workers Party is currently under investigation for massive scale corruption. His successor, now ex-president “Dilma Rousseff”, was impeached in August 2016 under corruption charges. Lula and Dilma supporters allege fraud in the legislature and justice systems and assert the opposition has caused a “coupe”. Recently, “Lula” was sentenced to 9.5 years in jail. He wants to run for president in this year’s election, but this conviction makes him ineligible. Upon appeal, the 3 judges in the federal appeals court not only confirmed the conviction but increased the jail term to 12 years and one month (and there are still six other processes for sentencing). According to polls, Lula is so “loved by the people” that if elections occurred today, he would be elected. “Lula” and the Workers Party have led protests in opposition to the current rulings and have incited riots and chaos. In recent days, rioters ignited fire to tires blockading heavy traffic roads in the Greater São Paulo area. 2018 will be a year of political discord and instability. May God have mercy in the Brazilian electoral process, provide safety and pray that people will turn to Jesus in this time of political crisis.
In recent days, rioters ignited fire to tires blockading heavy traffic roads in the Greater São Paulo area. 2018 will be a year of political discord and instability.
Decisions for Christ
Over the last few weeks, six people have surrendered to Christ. The Lord is leading us to so many unsaved people and these new believers need to grow in Jesus. Unfortunately, the end of December and beginning of January were slow discipleship months, as this is a typical Brazilian vacation period. Pray for our home meetings throughout the week, commitment level, excitement to share Jesus with others, and expansion into other locations.
School Break & A Love story Celebration
We were blessed by Manaus friends who purchased round-trip tickets for our three older kids to travel to Manaus and to stay at their homes during school break. Our children have wonderful memories and amazing friends in Manaus and miss them so much (Manaus is 4 hours by plane from São Paulo). Sarah, Laura, and Benjamin were overwhelmed when on Christmas Day they were informed of their trip to Northern Brazil. Tears of joy overtook their unbelieving faces. They had a fabulous time and have returned safely to São Paulo, with new and amazing memories. During their vacation, Raquel and I (and youngest, Melissa) celebrated our 19th wedding anniversary on January 8. We had a grand evening at Raquel’s favorite Italian restaurant rejoicing in what God has done in our lives as a couple and as a family. We are truly grateful for His blessings upon us.
Back to School
The kids will begin the new school year on February 5th and are enthusiastic to see their classmates and to get back into the “normal” routine. Sarah and Laura (7th and 6th grades) will study in the morning, while Benjamin and Melissa (5th and 1st grades) will study in the afternoon. The “Art and Culture Department” offers several workshops (i.e. acting/theater arts, guitar lessons, ballet, vocal training, etc) throughout the city – all six of us are enrolled and on mission to foster new connections to lead people to Jesus. Pray with us we befriend people and point them to the Savior.
Thank you for the your faithful prayers and support.
Grateful always,
Jud Hatcher
Judson & Raquel Hatcher
(859) 544-9040
judsonhatcher@gmail.com
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New Believers & Opportunities in the São Paulo Metropolis
Jud and Raquel Hatcher serve the Lord in São Paulo, Brazil. They are part of the “SeedFactory” church planting initiative, which is a movement to plant churches in all 26 Brazilian capitals. Since 2006, 43 churches have been started in 5 states.
October 11, 2017
Dear friends,
We took the family to the dentist this month for routine check-up and teeth cleaning. Sarah and Laura will have braces installed. I had 3 wisdom teeth removed. The dentist did too much cutting on my gums during the two-hour procedure and was left with plenty of bleeding over the following 48 hours. A lot of swelling ensued and I was limited to drinking cold liquid foods only. Rough first week, by the end of each day my mouth was throbbing. The pressure in my mouth is subdued though – my wisdom teeth were growing against my other teeth and had been a constant annoyance for years. Glad that part is over. Pray for us, for the Lord to keep a constant smile upon our faces. I sure enjoy seeing our children smiling.
Melissa and Maggie: Springtime in São Paulo
This last month, 5 people surrendered to the Savior. I do a lot of talking with people around the targeted neighborhood prayer walks, stations, and convenient stores. Becoming familiar to people and developing a rapport with them leads to longer interactions as we encounter them. We have one-on-one discipleship on the rise too. Raquel is involved in counseling the women and enjoys the time invested with them. The Lord is opening lots of doors for connecting with the folks we have the privilege of meeting. We are grateful to be at His service.
Life in the São Paulo metropolis is a beast. Not a month goes by where we don’t have fender benders, but on a recent occasion, something worse happened. A couple of weeks ago I had a scary encounter. While driving on an expressway, a car to my left decided to speed up and cut across in front of me to get off the exit. I T-boned his car, because of his sharp right maneuver at 55mph. It wasn’t a collision bad enough for the airbag to deploy, but I dragged his car a few yards. By the time both cars came to a halt, we were already passed the exit. Neither one of us had passengers in the vehicle and there were no immediate cars behind us to cause a pile-up. Thankfully, no one was hurt. Praise the Lord for constant protection.
Thanks for your faithful prayer and support. We are truly grateful!
Prayer requests:
- Overall family health.
- Traffic safety and throughout the city.
- An increase in Evangelism opportunities.
- Discipleship and leadership consolidation.
- Opening of new homes to receive small group Bible studies.
Blessed by the Savior,
Jud Hatcher
Judson & Raquel Hatcher
(859) 544-9040
judsonhatcher@gmail.com
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How are you spending your time?
Jud and Raquel Hatcher serve the Lord in São Paulo, Brazil. They are part of the “SeedFactory” church planting initiative, which is a movement to plant churches in all 26 Brazilian capitals. Since 2006, 43 churches have been started in 5 states.
September 15, 2017
Dear friends,
During my college days at Lexington Baptist College, I had the privilege of one-on-one time with Dr. Lindell Ormsbee. He taught at the University of Kentucky and served as a volunteer pastor at Ashland Avenue Baptist Church. We would meet at Fazoli’s to discuss Larry Crabb’s book. Our conversations rendered insights I still use to this day. While on furlough in 2015-2016, I ran into him at Buck Run Baptist Church in Frankfort, KY, and later connected with him on Facebook. He recently wrote a post that engaged my thoughts. I want to share with you his adapted quote from Dallas Willard:
“There is a widespread notion that just passing through death transforms human character. Discipleship is not needed. Just believe enough to ‘make it.’ But I have never been able to find any basis in scriptural tradition or psychological reality to think that this might be so. What if death only forever fixes us as the kind of person we are at death or sets the asymptotic limit of glory that we may experience in heaven. Indeed, the Bible does seem to imply that our assignments in eternity will be based on our faithfulness while on earth. Maybe there is much more going on here on earth than we even imagine. Maybe every day we are speeding down the highway of life, heaving bags full of eternal treasure out the window, more preoccupied by the road ahead than the silent occupant that sits patiently beside us. Maybe every day of our lives, every conversation, every decision has eternal consequences. How have you spent your time today? How are you spending your time now?” –Adapted from Dallas Willard
Convicting, isn’t it?
I’d like to send a special thank you to Durbin Memorial Baptist Church in Lexington, KY, for the mission team that came to São Paulo and for the tremendous love offering. I’d also like to thank fellow missionary A.J. Hensley for all the tools you bestowed me during the days I was with you in Caragua. Over the last several weeks, 13 people have surrendered their lives to the Lord. We are investing time in discipleship these new believers and praying that He gives us more opportunities to share the Gospel message and for each new Christian to be bold in sharing to others how their life was changed forever. Last month I traveled to Manaus (a 4 hour flight) to attend the Pastor’s Conference at Nova Igreja Batista, where my Uncle David is pastor. It was well attended. I had an incredible time of encouragement, learning, challenge and connectivity with other pastor friends from Manaus and other parts of the country. It was also great to see Michael & Beverly Creiglow and Odali & Kathy Barros. I remained a few extra days to ship our furniture and other belongings to São Paulo. Thankfully, all of our furnishings arrived and we began unpacking and organizing our home. Living in an almost empty house and sitting down to eating at a make-shift table was getting old. We moved into a new house in July. We are blessed by the opportunity to serve in São Paulo. Thankful for your support and prayers! Grateful always Jud Hatcher
Grateful always,
Jud Hatcher
Judson & Raquel Hatcher
(859) 544-9040
judsonhatcher@gmail.com
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Open Doors for Discipleship; 100 Chairs Needed
Jud and Raquel Hatcher serve the Lord in São Paulo, Brazil. They are part of the “SeedFactory” church planting initiative, which is a movement to plant churches in all 26 Brazilian capitals. Since 2006, 43 churches have been started in 5 states.
July 12, 2017
Dear friends,
THANK YOU
We are grateful for your constant prayers and monthly financial contribution. Please know, we couldn’t be here without you.
FAMILY NEWS
The kids are all in great health and are doing well in school. They have two weeks break during this month and are enjoying it thoroughly. Playing at the beach, fishing and going to the mall are on their radar of events.
Raquel had a cold last week, but quickly recuperated. This must be the 4th time she had one during her lifetime. She has amazing health and stamina for daily adventures. Praise the Lord!
Thanks for the many birthday wishes on May 23rd.
So, I turned 40 years old and decided to do a complete physical exam at the doctor’s office. I am completing follow-up lab exams he requested and have several other appointments with specialists later this month. All the recent heavy lifting has caused a lot of swelling, pain and numbing in my arms. I went online to research the medication prescribed, and discovered it is “geriatric medicine”. Well, I must be getting old…But geriatric, already? Really?
It was especially revealing this week when I went to the barber shop for a much-deserved haircut and was asked “Do you want to cut any on top?” I responded, “Yes, please.” The barber then politely asked “Are you sure?” I couldn’t help, but chuckle, in the midst of being annoyed at my hair loss. But, it was most funny when Melissa (5 years old) pointed out, as she stood behind me – a day after my birthday – and said “Is that white hair on your head?” Well, so it is. I must be getting old! LOL
EXPANDING
As we interact with people, it is intriguing to see the understanding they have of evangelical Christianity. I often hear statements like: “People of different religions believe in the same God. The import thing is to have faith and do your part.”; and, “What? You are a pastor? But, you are so ‘normal’, different than the stereotypes from TV.”; and, “Your kids are so well behaved. Tell me your secret.”; and, “You have hope in your eyes. What makes you so happy?”; and, “I reject God, because Christians reject me. But, you´ve never said anything about my piercings or tattoos. How come you haven’t said anything about the way I look?” Love & hospitality never ceases to amaze people. This is how Jesus draws them to Him.
Over the last several months, the Lord has allowed us to meet so many unsaved people through the different community events. The canvasing, prayer walking, and evangelism visitation in strategic neighborhoods has created positive contacts. As a result, we have two meeting locations. There are several families that are considering opening their homes for a Bible study as well. Ultimately, we will go where doors open. It is exciting to see how people are responding to the Gospel message.
ADJUSTING
In the midst of everything, the Lord directed us to move into a new home. We are three minutes away from the previous house. The street is much calmer for the kids to play in the front lawn and the house is all on ground floor. We were tired of going up and down stairs in the house and all the accidents we were having (not a month would go by without someone getting hurt on the stairwell). Renting a house is very bureaucratic, but this time, it only took one month to get everything squared away and approved. Praise the Lord!!
100 CHAIRS
The Lord has opened incredible doors for sharing the Gospel and discipleship. One of the challenges we run into as we receive people, is seating. We need chairs! We need to purchase 100 chairs – each at roughly 40 dollars. As you read this, (and if, the Lord puts it on your heart) would you consider a financial contribution? I am thankful for your consideration on this matter.
FLOODED CAR REPAIR
A few months ago we had our car engine rebuilt due to a river flooding. The damage caused by water was repaired, but are still paying the cost. We are in need of $3,000 to cover the charge. Could you assist?
PRAYER MATTERS
- Family health and education
- Opening new doors for making disciples
- 100 chairs
- Car repair costs
Thanks for loving Jesus and loving us.
Grateful always,
Jud Hatcher
Judson & Raquel Hatcher
(859) 544-9040
judsonhatcher@gmail.com
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The God of Changing Circumstances
Jud and Raquel Hatcher serve the Lord in São Paulo, Brazil. They are part of the “SeedFactory” church planting initiative, which is a movement to plant churches in all 26 Brazilian capitals. Since 2006, 43 churches have been started in 5 states.
March 9, 2017
Dear Friends,
The Lord never ceases to amaze us as He demonstrates His sovereign control over all things. Circumstances come and go, and the result always gives glory to God. If it is not glorifying Him, it is not over yet. Always trust Him. So, during the last few months, the verse that has been ringing in my ears is “…the joy of the Lord is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10b. We endure all things joyfully, so that He may receive the glory. He does strengthen us, everyday. How comforting it is to know there is nothing our Father cannot resolve. (Can I get an amen?)
Family
As mentioned in last month’s letter, we stopped homeschooling and enrolled our kids in a Brazilian public school for this school year. The educational calendar begins in February and goes through December, with a month break in July. Homeschooling just didn’t work out as we anticipated. We rejoice and are counting our blessings for these reasons: 1) the school is seven minutes away from home; 2) it is one of the best public schools in the country; 3) this change in plans did not incur extra monthly expenses (private schools in São Paulo are generally more expensive than in the States); 4) the kids like their teachers and friends – the are loving it; and, 5) We can interact with our neighborhood families more effectively. One thing is certain, we are so glad the Lord placed us in our current home, as we are within an exceptional school district.
Health wise, Raquel and I are doing well. The children had it rough this last month, everyone was sick with different issues. Laura and Melissa still have an infection and Benjamin continues to have mild stomach pains. All four of them are doing blood work and doctor’s follow-up visits.
Ministry
I was in the States for 9 days during February. I meet with Bros. Randy Jones, Dave Parks and Steve Wainright and was highly encouraged by changes being implemented within Baptist Faith Missions. While in Lexington I also met with several pastor friends – Russel Zik, Donovan Stewart, Tim Parsons and Todd Thomas. Then, drove down to Tennessee and onto Virginia where I participated in the Pastoral Leadership Advisory Board at Liberty University, led by Dr. Dave Adams. There were 41 pastors from across the country, with lectures from Pastors Jonathan Falwell, Ed Hindson, Dave Adams, Troy Temple and Elmer Towns. We also had small group discussions coordinated by Jason Suitt. I connected with pastor friends Russ Dean, Matt Willmington, Tim Grandstaff Sr., Daniel Broyles, Danny Campbell, and Joey Bray. A special thank you to Scott and Cindy Phillips for hosting me in their home. I enjoyed visiting Scott Phillips’ SS class and the folks at Thomas Road B.C. and Living Word B.C.
The Lord has opened incredible doors for sharing the Gospel and mentoring here in São Paulo. We are praying as the Lord is confirming in our hearts where to start the next new works, including something within our own neighborhood. In preparation for this, we need to purchase 100 chairs – each at roughly 40 dollars. As you read this (and, if the Lord lays on your heart), would you consider a financial contribution for chairs? I am thankful for your consideration on this matter.
Adjusting
We are grateful as the Lord has taught us so much over the last 6 months and has guided us over hurdles. As mentioned earlier, our children’s education has been a major adjustment to our original plans. We are also grateful for the local community of English-speaking Expatriates – an informal association of English speakers who meet each month and organize family activities. We all share similar experiences in adjusting to life in this massive metropolis. Raquel and I were glad to be the host home for February’s monthly brunch. We have met so many wonderful people and our kids love interacting with other children who also speak English. Friends are always an encouragement.
Prayer Requests
- Children’s health and education
- Opening new doors for church planting
- 100 chairs
- Personal finances
- Missions Conference at Thompson Road B.C. in Lexington, KY in April
Please, continue to pray for us. We are grateful for every prayer invested on our behalf.
Thankful always,
Jud Hatcher
Judson & Raquel Hatcher
(859) 608-4742
judsonhatcher@gmail.com
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Adjusting to Various Challenges in São Paulo
Jud and Raquel Hatcher serve the Lord in São Paulo, Brazil. They are part of the “SeedFactory” church planting initiative, which is a movement to plant churches in all 26 Brazilian capitals. Since 2006, 43 churches have been started in 5 states.
February 1, 2017
Dear friends,
Thank you for praying and supporting us. Your love for us is always an encouragement. In this newsletter, I will share about our family’s health, kids’ education and ministry. Come visit us in São Paulo to see firsthand what the Lord is doing.
Family
The end of year has been an interesting one for all of us. Raquel, Sarah and Melissa are in good health. Laura has an ear infection that just doesn’t want to leave her alone. The antibiotics don’t seem to be having much effect. She is on a third round of medication and we are praying that she will recuperate. Benjamin has complained of stomach aches for a while. We took him to the ER a few weeks ago, but the exams were inconclusive. There are still more tests to run as we search for the root problem. I’ve had a lot of muscle issues. My hands and arms will typically swell up, go numb and my joints ache after carrying heavy luggage or after driving long stretches or holding heavy items for long periods of time.
This year we opted to homeschool our children using the A Beka curriculum. We have never done this before and it has proven to be a challenge for us. We are in the process of reconsidering our decision and enrolling them in a local school.
We ask that you pray for our health and our children’s education.
Ministry
We have connected with Igreja Batista Memorial de Alphaville (IBMA) here in São Paulo. Sidney Costa is the senior pastor and is a friend since 2004. He is a great leader and has coached us along this transition process (i.e. housing, local culture, friendship, banking advice, etc.).
I have an office at the church and lead the English and Spanish Communities, which are extensions of IBMA. The average attendance on Sundays is 90-100 people between the two communities. We are excited by this connection as it is an intensely missional church and extremely focused on Jesus as it plans to branch out into all regions of Greater São Paulo. In March, a new location is queued to begin in a section of the city called Berrine. We are enthusiastic with what the Lord is doing.
I am scheduled to be in the States for 9 days as of February 22. I will attend the Liberty University Pastoral Leadership Advisory Board, led by Dr. Dave Adams. I shall also meet with several pastors and churches in VA, TN & KY. Pray as the Lord opens doors.
Adjusting
We have made several new friends since we arrived in São Paulo, including the English-speaking expatriate community. We are still adjusting to pace in this massive metropolis. While the region has a lot to offer and has its advantages, traffic is always a killer. Getting to different areas where we must go can often take up to 2 hours. This, whilst dealing with crazy motorcycles that weave between cars and often bump into cars. Getting around town without Google maps or Waze is almost impossible.
Finding a good car mechanic that is close to home has been a tough one. The Lord provided us with a great car though, (a KIA Rondo, 7 seat, compact mini-van), but we’ve already taken it in for repairs. Finding parts for it is a challenge. Just the other day I needed to change the engine belt and it took me two days to find the crazy thing. It is an inconspicuous vehicle, great on gas and runs well. Adjusting has been tougher than expected, particularly because the cost of living is higher than we anticipated.
Our Prayer Requests are:
1. Family’s health. (Laura’s infection, Benjamin’s stomach, and my hands and arms.)
2. Children’s education.
3. Finances.
Grateful always,
Jud Hatcher
Judson & Raquel Hatcher
(859) 608-4742
judsonhatcher@gmail.com
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