April-May2011
Dear Praying Friends,
The last few months have been more exciting than I could ever begin to convey in the few words that fit on this page. When I wrote last there were many things that were just beginning and now just three short months later wow, there is much to tell! Since January I have had the privilege of being invited to two local churches to do their teacher training. In both churches there were between 18-20 teachers taking the course. It was exciting to see their commitment and enthusiasm, especially after the class was done!
In January I was also given the responsibility of beginning a women’s ministry in our church and training women to be able to be the leadership for this new ministry. It has been such a joy to work with them and watch them as they grow in their desire to minister to the women of the congregation. Each month we plan a fellowship for the women of the church and each month we see more women attending and bringing visitors with them. We have been able to reach some through this ministry that previously we were not able to reach, we have also seen some come to know the Lord as their Savior as a result.
Our Single Women’s ministry finished at the end of April and was a wonderful success; we drew women from 5 different churches for a time of fellowship and reflection of the sufficiency of Christ in all things. We made new friends, studied God’s Word together and encouraged one another in our walk with the Lord.
School, I am Finally!! done. I graduated on May 14th in Lansdale, PA with my Masters in Christian counseling. I was cheered on by precious friends in the area, a fellow missionary friend from Mexico City, Darlene Gabler, long time co-laborers, Bob and Terri Metze and the best surprise of all, the oldest of my brothers drove all night from NC to be at my graduation. The entire day was such an amazing blur but wonderfully so. I finished and finished well, I’m excited to see how the Lord uses these skills further in the ministry here in Mexico City.
The day after graduation I left for Germany (a trip paid for by some who love me very much), to celebrate the completion of seminary. The trip thus far has been beyond a blessing. Just meeting and staying with fellow believers has been such a wonderful highlight of the trip. It is very humbling to meet and hear the testimonies of fellow believers who share such passion for sharing the Gospel with those who have never heard. If this was all we got to see and do it would have been worth it all.
As soon as I make it back home (Mexico City), there is so much more to be done. I have been invited to the sierra (mountains) of Vera Cruz, some call it the “jungle” to do teacher training there for several churches (probably for about 2 weeks). Those of you who know me well know I am anything but a jungle girl so it should be interesting. It would have been easy to say I’d pass but I truly do believe there is a need for teacher training in local churches so while the whole jungle theme kind of is daunting for me I’m willing to go. As I get more details I’ll share them with you so you will know how to pray!
Thank you for the wonderful love and support system that you are each a part of that makes what I do look easy. I am extremely blessed.
Because He Lives!
Cynthia Castillo
PS. My immigration process for my Visa will begin all over again when I arrive in Mexico on June 9th. Please pray. The last word I heard was that I would NOT have to take my car to the border after all. What a relief!! Thank you for your prayers on my behalf!!! Please just pray that the process is quick as I still cannot use my car during that time. I’ve been without the use of my car since March 15th. If you want to see pics of my trip to Germany see my Facebook account.
