La Piazza Press

La Piazza Press is our newsletter that we use to keep everyone informed of our progress as missionaries with Saint's Equipped to Evangelize in San Lorenzo, Italy.  Our vision is to see the piazzas (town squares) filled with evangelical Christians.  Would you be willing to share in that vision?  If so, please click the Subscribe button above to receive our newsletter.  For more information, you can visit our website at www.littlesitaly.com

Ministry Highlights - January 23, 2009

We are feeling very reflective as we look over the past year and anticipate what the Lord has in store for us in 2009.  Maureen spent the last 6 weeks in the States and was shocked to see the decline of the U.S. economy.  Tom stayed in Italy closing the books for the year but leaves for the U.S. next week for a mission conference.  It is amazing to us to see the faithfulness of our contributors during these times. Only the Lord knows where this is all heading.  On January 17th, we held an Appreciation Picnic in Ft. Myers for our supporters located there.  It was great to be able to reconnect with many of you.  Let's continue to lift each other up in prayer as we go through our economic struggles together.

We have many praises to share so this will be a longer than usual newsletter.  On the other hand, I know we all need to hear some good news.  So, here goes...

In November, we had our Thanksgiving Outreach.  We had over 100 people attend.  Two of our American college students shared their testimonies and Sam Spatola delivered a gospel presentation.  Many exciting things happened but we want to focus on one specific event.  A couple by the name of Fabrizio and Elenora attended.  Fabrizio is an atheist/scientologist.  During the presentations he appeared very interested and later Tom joined them at their table for an interesting discussion.  Fabrizio asked Tom why he thought Jesus was the answer and a lively conversation ensued.  Tom told him that many eyewitnesses had written about Jesus.  Fabrizio said he wanted to read these stories.  With that Tom presented him with an Italian New Testament and challenged him to read it.  We met with them today and Fabrizio has already read Matthew, Mark, and Luke.  Hallelujah!  We will keep you updated as to his progress.  No confession of faith yet but we need your prayers.

Please pray the following prayer with us: 
Lord your word goes out from your mouth: It will not return to you empty, but will accomplish what you desire and achieve the purpose for which you sent it. (Isaiah 55:11)  Lord your word is living and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.  Please open Fabrizio and Elenora's heart to your truth. (Hebrews 4:12)

In December we had two graduation parties for 60 ESL students in Valvasone and another 60 in Udine.  We taught them some American Christmas carols and had a good time singing them during the party.  Sam again shared the gospel message at these events.  After the presentation, Aldo, an ESL student in Valvasone, asked Maureen why she was always so happy.  This gave Maureen the opportunity to explain to him that it was because of her relationship with Jesus Christ.  We praise the Lord for this opportunity to plant seeds.

We initiated 2 Bible studies this fall.  Attendance was sparse but it's a start.  We plan to continue them this semester and covet your prayers in this area.  Attendance at our church plant continues to grow incrementally.  We have about 30 attendees and are slowly outgrowing our space.

 Personal Highlights

Maureen did a lot of fund raising over the Christmas holidays but also had the opportunity to spend time with her mother, our daughters, and our grandchildren.  She flew into Philadelphia and then drove to Florida with our daughter, Brittney.  Tom flies to Florida the beginning of February for a mission conference and then drives to Pennsylvania to see family.  He will be stopping along the way to do some fund raising and meet with some churches who will be sending teams to Italy next summer.  Please pray for his safety and positive results.

February Schedule

Maureen and her team begin classes the beginning of February.  We will have 3 new ESL teachers this semester plus Becky, a returning teacher, and Maureen.  Classes begin the beginning of February.  We plan to have 10 adult classes and 3 children's classes.  Saints Bible Institute has 24 U.S. college students coming for the winter semester.  This will be the second largest enrollment ever.  S.B.I is also working on a study abroad program with Columbia International University. 

Support Update

The U.S. economy continues to affect our monthly support.  It was at an all time low of 68% but we are now at 74% of our monthly need.  Our short fall is $1,227.  Please pray that the Lord will provide additional monthly support. 

To become a part of our financial support team, make your check payable to Saints Equipped to Evangelize.  Put our names on the memo line and indicate whether it is a special or monthly gift.  All contributions are tax deductible.  Mail your check to:  

S.E.E. - P.O. Box 587 - Bradenton, FL - 34206-0587

Praises and Prayers