January/February 2019 Newsletter

Christmas is a joyful time in Mexico. The Mexican society has been taught some biblical principals and holidays such as Christmas and Easter are very important. In the churches we continue with these cultural customs since they give us an opportunity to share the gospel. During the month of December every church and every group in the church has to have their own “posada” (Christmas party). That makes life very lively when you have to participle in more than 12 parties in one month aside from the regular service schedule and workload. It also takes a little chunk out of the pocket book.

One of the main reasons that we try to keep this up is to keep Christ as the center focus of the season. In Mexico, as in other parts of the world the word, “Navidad” (Christmas) is rapidly being replaced by the phrase “Felices Fiestas” (Happy Holidays). What is a party without a person to celebrate, or what is Christmas without Christ? Soon we will find ourselves with holidays just to have holidays and parties just to party. We are a purpose driven church and our purpose is to exalt our Lord Jesus Christ. I have the church well taught, I don't want to hear anyone saying “Felices Fiestas” in the church and I think that they understand why.

One of our church anniversaries last year was very special in that we were able to see continuity in our ministry efforts here in Mexico. One of the families that grew up in the church we have in the town of Compostela came to minister in our anniversary service. Of the 3 children that were literally born in the church, one is now a pastor in another city and his 2 sisters are professionals that are strongly planted in their local congregations. Now their children are growing up in church with the start of a third generation. A church is made up of strong families.

And speaking of families, we had the opportunity to take a 3- day local trip with of our family and grandchildren the beginning of 2019. We were able to visit a part of Mexico that we had never visited before. I believe my first church is my family and through them I build the rest of the ministry. Up until now we have been blessed to have our 3 children to work with us and be part of what God has called us to do. Simri works with us in the business and ministers in a church in Tepic on the worship team. Damara, along with her husband Agustin pastor a church that is under the covering of our Mexican association. Vanessa is still at home with us as she finishes High School this year and looks to move on to college. Lucy and Philip are the ones who need to keep everything flowing. Dad is no longer able to make trips like these any more and we all share the load of making his life comfortable as possible.

Thank you for your prayers for the ministry and your financial support make you part of what is happing here in Mexico. We bless you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Philip, Lucy and Vanessa Tolman