​Today I had to say one of the hardest things in life as a Pastor - I had to say no I would not baptize two people.  The great thing is they want to become baptized!!  But they want me to baptize them.  Normally that would seem like a good thing, but when working to train leaders I must say no
 
Why??  I want the deaf leaders in Liberia to baptize them!!  If I do it, they may think the white man or Reinke or American is better.  NO!!  Also I want them to see their leaders as the people who Baptize.  Their leaders are the ones responsible for their spiritual care.  Their leaders are the people God is calling. 
 
I thank God the people are growing and want to become Baptized.  I thank God for His Gospel working in the lives of His people.
 
Please pray for the leaders as they continue to share His love and forgiveness!!
 
 
 

From Rev. Dr. John Reinke:

Greetings from Liberia!!
 
I am very impressed.  Last year the Deaf did not have any church or Worship together.  They are now meeting each week and they are leading Worship themselves!!  I rejoice in their study and practice together.  I watched Worship today and they did very good with Law and Gospel! 
 
They are inviting their Deaf friends to come and join with them. They are very eager about everyone learning about Jesus.  But they are also very serious!  If someone comes to the workshop to see the “American,” but does not come to Worship – wow – they are questioned very seriously about why they are coming!!  Good for them:)
 
I know some of you have seen pictures from the Liberian Deaf people online:) They are taking pictures and putting them on Facebook.  (unfortunately, I do not often have internet or phone connection) They are very eager to begin our time together. 
 
We arrived at the place I am staying about 1 am Saturday and we started classes at 9 am Saturday!!  Last year was our first experience, learning about the people, their sign system, and the culture. 
 
(we also have one/more Deaf Muslims.  Please pray for them)
 
This trip we are focusing more on the making disciples/leaders. Much of our discussion will be on setting up the training of disciples and how they can continue the training.  The expectation is for all of them to have at least 6 people they are training. 
 
We are also meeting with Bishop Bolay and what is required for the Deaf to become Elders, Evangelists, Deaconess, and Pastors.  There are many questions about how things work in Liberia.  But everyone is very excited and I am thrilled with their eagerness to move forward. 
 
Thank you to all of you for your prayers and support!!  I thank God I am able to be here.  Thank you also for your financial support – without you these trips would not be possible. 
 
God’s Blessings!!
 
PS – the plane trip was also blessed as I was able to take for a long time with a Muslim on his way home for his grandfather’s funeral.  He has met people from the Lutheran Church.  So I was able to talk with him about his culture and what will happen when he arrives home.  But I was also able share the Gospel with him and he accepted on of the Jesus Hug cards.  Please pray for the Holy Spirit to help this seed grow.