Written by Harry & Jean Reid
Assembly at Gorey Southern Ireland
At the end of the past year we visited Gort again, a round trip of five-hundred-and-sixty miles. We went with a little apprehension as we knew that some had returned to Brazil because of the deteriorating economic situation here.
To our surprise this visit was definitely the most worthwhile of all, as many new doors were opened and we encountered many folks who were once Catholic, now with no affiliation with any denomination. Near to where we were staying, there was an electronics factory which make solenoids and pumps, where quite a number of Brazilians work. We managed to leave much gospel material there.
We went around four housing schemes where some recognized us from previous visits. Severo Miguel had quite a number of radio programs recorded and we were able to produce CDs with short Gospel messages. These seem to be more accepted than tracts. The Portuguese calendars were also well received.
Athleague has one of largest slaughter houses in Ireland. It is about an hour's journey N.W. of Gort. Sixty-five Brazilians are working there and some were already inquiring if we were going to turn up this year. It is a delight to know they were expecting Portuguese material. In Roscommon we made some new contacts who were glad to get the CDs and calendars.
So it only remains for us to pray that the 'Good Seed' will find fertile ground and have the eternal effect on these dear souls. We are greatly encouraged to see that a good number are still living in the south of Ireland. Yesterday we returned from another visit to Gorey where our daughter, Shirley, and her husband, Michael, have been working for the Lord. It was a joy to renew fellowship with the saints there and see some new converts in the number. As the little room is now fairly cramped for space, they are praying that the Lord will provide and guide them to more spacious accommodation. It was most refreshing to see so many saved from their Catholic background, now rejoicing in the Lord Jesus.
Jean is still managing after her fall. Although the broken bone in her wrist has healed, she still has much pain in her upper arm, and uses a tri-wheeler in the house to give her some stability. The Parkinson's problem has made her unstable as she could fall very easily. Her last fall was difficult as she had to have eleven stitches inserted in her face. Thankfully it is healed up, leaving her with a large scar above her left eye.
We plan, in the will of the Lord, to return to Brazil in late August, for another spell. We certainly would very much value the prayers of the Lord's people that Jean will have enough strength to cope with the journey.
Spring 2013
Written by Harry & Jean Reid - Ireland
harryandjean@btinternet.com