February and March Newsletter Update

Greetings from Panama. We have had one busy February. We were able to take part in our church in David’s VBS at the beginning of the month. Corey led one of the small groups of upper elementary students in the daily lesson. There was about 150 children that participated in the VBS, and we pray this week of learning about Jesus left a lasting impact on their lives.

Throughout February, we have been working on recruiting students and preparing for upcoming teams this spring and summer. We have to do a great deal of preliminary work in regards to receiving teams and a lot of that takes place months before they arrive. Along with organizing teams, we are planning curriculum as well as farm development.

 Another highlight from February was participating in my (Bethany) church’s mission’s festival in Atlanta, Georgia. It was a wonderful time of connecting with other missionaries, getting to know both church members and staff, and networking with other ministries. It was so refreshing to be with such an encouraging group of people, who truly know the importance of supporting and praying for one another. We were also able to meet with one mission team leader that will be bringing a group in 2016, another leader that is bring a group this summer, as well as, visit the church we attended when we lived in Alabama. Needless to say it was a busy trip, but it was a productive and encouraging one.

Missouri group making progress on the dorm.

With a new month upon us, we are continuing the farm development and are hoping to make significant strides in building construction with one team coming at the end of March. We are so excited that God has provided us with short term teams to contribute to the development of the farm. In missions, it is important to remember that more is accomplished for the Lord through team work and support of one another in the body of Christ, then in our separate groups. During the mission’s festival in Atlanta, it was so rewarding to see that attitude of unity among the body of believers. Remember, united as followers of Christ we can change the world. We are so thankful for all of you that pray for us and support us. You are making the vision of Lasting Harvest possible, and God will bless your generosity. Let us always remember the words of Galatians 6:9, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Thank you for your partnership and prayers.

Your partners in reaching the world,

Corey and Bethany Courtwright