tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-146670372024-03-05T06:20:51.426-08:00Tamarindo MinistriesThank you for visiting the update letter/blogsite for Tamarindo Ministries. See below for our latest update letter.
For more information or to contact us, you can click on the appropriate link located in the "Link" column below. Also, if you'd like to be notified when each new update letter is posted, please let us know. Thank you for visiting. Grace and Peace to you.Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-81819682551867361892012-07-14T17:52:00.001-07:002012-07-14T17:55:44.681-07:00CHURCH IN TAMARINDO<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj577WoUN_yxTKvnaeEQa-qXJ9S7eZlLiBH_fCImX-KjsH5MPIKYPszaCCzKDaOQbFud1GQD4ZYo8gnxk0X2mpCsphSbK5Q7UOo9E_Erwc7te_NV5elrneas9Q7lOI8WRrIiRg6HA/s1600/Stacey+and+Lyle+Watson.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj577WoUN_yxTKvnaeEQa-qXJ9S7eZlLiBH_fCImX-KjsH5MPIKYPszaCCzKDaOQbFud1GQD4ZYo8gnxk0X2mpCsphSbK5Q7UOo9E_Erwc7te_NV5elrneas9Q7lOI8WRrIiRg6HA/s320/Stacey+and+Lyle+Watson.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Well.... the latest exciting news is that Stacey and I have felt a call to do a church plant in Tamarindo. After 6 years of serving as associate pastor and pastor at Beach Community Church in Brasilito, we have felt called to begin ministering with a focus more in our home town.... Tamarindo! While we are very sad to part with the family we have known and loved at BCC over the past 7 years, it is pretty incredible to experience God's provision and guidance in the midst of this transition. <br />
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Next month we will be headed to a church planters assessment in Indianapolis, and we are hoping to be accepted and sent as church planters with Converge (www.convergeworldwide.org). We will keep you posted. Please keep is in prayer, and hopefully we may see some of you on our next trip down to Costa Rica. Visit us at www.tamarindochurch.com .<br />
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Grace and Peace,<br />
Lyle and StaceyLyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-30879416142244544692010-07-16T13:55:00.000-07:002011-11-17T18:41:19.318-08:00A NEW CHAPTER- PASTOR<link rel="File-List" href="file://localhost/Users/lylewatson/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip/0clip_filelist.xml"> <!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <o:officedocumentsettings> <o:allowpng/> </o:OfficeDocumentSettings> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves>false</w:TrackMoves> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> <w:drawinggridhorizontalspacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridHorizontalSpacing> <w:drawinggridverticalspacing>18 pt</w:DrawingGridVerticalSpacing> <w:displayhorizontaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayHorizontalDrawingGridEvery> <w:displayverticaldrawinggridevery>0</w:DisplayVerticalDrawingGridEvery> <w:validateagainstschemas/> <w:saveifxmlinvalid>false</w:SaveIfXMLInvalid> <w:ignoremixedcontent>false</w:IgnoreMixedContent> <w:alwaysshowplaceholdertext>false</w:AlwaysShowPlaceholderText> <w:compatibility> <w:breakwrappedtables/> <w:dontgrowautofit/> <w:dontautofitconstrainedtables/> <w:dontvertalignintxbx/> </w:Compatibility> </w:WordDocument> </xml><![endif]--><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:latentstyles deflockedstate="false" latentstylecount="276"> </w:LatentStyles> </xml><![endif]--> <style> <!-- /* Font Definitions */ @font-face {font-family:Cambria; panose-1:2 4 5 3 5 4 6 3 2 4; mso-font-charset:0; mso-generic-font-family:auto; mso-font-pitch:variable; mso-font-signature:3 0 0 0 1 0;} /* Style Definitions */ p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal {mso-style-parent:""; margin:0in; margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} --> </style> <!--[if gte mso 10]> <style> /* Style Definitions */ table.MsoNormalTable {mso-style-name:"Table Normal"; mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:.0001pt; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:12.0pt; font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-ascii-font-family:Cambria; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-fareast-font-family:"Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-fareast; mso-hansi-font-family:Cambria; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <!--StartFragment--> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">I guess I should start this update with the most exciting news for us..... <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRmFBF-8oOJhHp5YsD5B1l8luHVvughzzgvQdevUxVh4EnGrhV5I3g8nx9hMjsLIeV4Bl84Vkk5RvxCl6Bn_JLaa5wWa9_OZkpsLson93ZNRNRClRXSxwQZSxAOaqOdIR9BohUPA/s1600/Lyle&Stacey2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 201px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRmFBF-8oOJhHp5YsD5B1l8luHVvughzzgvQdevUxVh4EnGrhV5I3g8nx9hMjsLIeV4Bl84Vkk5RvxCl6Bn_JLaa5wWa9_OZkpsLson93ZNRNRClRXSxwQZSxAOaqOdIR9BohUPA/s400/Lyle&Stacey2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494621151055360850" border="0" /></a>I was recently called to pastor Beach Community Church, and will begin leading the church on this Sunday <a href="http://www.beachcommunitychurch.com">www.beachcommunitychurch.com</a> . O<span style="">ur church held</span> a celebration Potluck Lunch at church last Sunday to say farewell to the current pastor as well as welcome me in as the new Pastor.<span style=""> </span>Please pray for me as Stacey and we step into this new role at the church.<span style=""> </span>God is moving in some interesting things in our area, and we are excited to be caught up in whatever He has in store.<span style=""> </span>Please pray for wisdom, discernment, humility and gifts of leadership as we move ahead.</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">THE FAMILY</b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Before taking on the pastor role, Stacey and I decided to make a trip home to the States in June. <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOK8e-N5T4LGlGnNQ8ndZGnLQhc4WN2siLwjt8aaS27ATYNfqFi7OMLO5Zb9b_poW5kRRic4OgctgDUKgWfQyRhua0oDEagtGiksGxBrrwKIMD9buQC9Y-aXZGK15Bl10B2Grwhw/s1600/P6150053.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 328px; height: 246px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOK8e-N5T4LGlGnNQ8ndZGnLQhc4WN2siLwjt8aaS27ATYNfqFi7OMLO5Zb9b_poW5kRRic4OgctgDUKgWfQyRhua0oDEagtGiksGxBrrwKIMD9buQC9Y-aXZGK15Bl10B2Grwhw/s400/P6150053.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494614812512331074" border="0" /></a>We had a great time visiting family and friends in Virginia Beach and Wisconsin/Illinois.<span style=""> </span>The kids had a blast going to the zoo, water parks, the marine science museum, the amusement park.<span style=""> </span>They also got to cruise around on a jet ski and get pulled behind it in a tube/raft with mom.<span style="">... all thanks to great grandparents. </span>Grandparents are the coolest!<span style=""> </span>Oh...We also celebrated Olivia’s 4<sup>th</sup> B-day while in the States.<span style=""> </span>Man, they are growing up fast.<span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">While in the U.S., I was able to attend an ALPHA conference. Basically, its a tool that many churches use for outreach and growth, and the conference gives training on how to host these groups out of your home church.<br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Now that we're back here in Tamarindo, we are just taking time to acclimate to the new role with the church, and as you can imagine things have been extra busy… but a good kind of busy. Stacey has been super supportive in keeping things in order at home and helping me out where she can.<span style=""> </span>Wives are the coolest!!<span style=""> </span>Haha.<span style=""> </span>I’m thankful to God that he’s given me a great partner for life and ministry.</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><o:p> </o:p></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><o:p>THE CAFE</o:p></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Discipleship Group <o:p></o:p></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">D-group has been going great! <span style=""> </span>Over the past few months, we have been studying scripture verses covering themes of Self-Image and Perfectionism.<span style=""> </span>In addition, we completed our discussion group on the book Basic Christianity by John Stott, and we are now going through Crazy Love by Francis Chan.<span style=""> </span>This is still a highlight of my week as we have a great time of fellowship, meaningful discussion and prayer.<span style=""> </span>Unfortunately, a couple of folks in our group, Kevin and Marlen, have had to head back to the U.S.<span style=""> </span>We will miss everything that they brought to our group…. Which was a lot!</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: left;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><br /></b></p><p style="text-align: left;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Café Café</b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ibY19G9pnJ1Voo4VtMCJMj666iZJ0TNXt5pcdb2UU8MIS7Wg_NRvCuhRwBsmjjwCZxJvObUomtVMTXdfO3WKu9Eqip3gDSbEZzpyveJzN_zehzRAaXPuqOSE4N8ZrqgPvwyXdA/s1600/100_6518.JPG" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-ibY19G9pnJ1Voo4VtMCJMj666iZJ0TNXt5pcdb2UU8MIS7Wg_NRvCuhRwBsmjjwCZxJvObUomtVMTXdfO3WKu9Eqip3gDSbEZzpyveJzN_zehzRAaXPuqOSE4N8ZrqgPvwyXdA/s400/100_6518.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494617076251595906" border="0" /></a></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">“Praise God.... Thank You Lord!!” <span style=""> </span>Those are the first words that come to mind as I think of what to share with you all.<span style=""> </span>This year, the Café has finally turned the corner and is functioning as fully self supported ministry.<span style=""> </span>We are grateful that the day has come.<span style=""> </span>I think back on every year during the low season of tourism.<span style=""> </span>Over the past 3 years, every low season has brought be to the lord to pray and ask, “Lord, do you want us to keep this thing going?<span style=""> </span>How much longer?<span style=""> </span>Do you want us to keep investing our time and energy here?”<span style=""> </span>In faith, we have heard a “Yes” from the Lord, and we kept going.<span style=""> </span>And finally we have arrived! <span style=""> </span>Our goal of the Café being self supported has been met.<span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">I’d like to add also that he Café has continued to serve in incredible ways as an outreach to the community.<span style=""> </span>Time after time we meet unchurched people and show hospitality and kindness in the name of Jesus. Please pray with us for open doors to share our faith as we befriend these people that God sends our way.<br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Daniel</b>- In addition to this praise, I am thankful because the Lord has brought an incredible dude to our doorstep to run the Café as I enter into the pastor role.<span style=""> </span>In the last update letter, I mentioned our new intern Daniel.<span style=""> </span>Well, in getting to know Daniel I felt he was the perfect guy for the position… and in God’s perfect timing!<span style=""> </span>Daniel has committed to serving at the Café up to June 2011 with an openness to the possibility of being here even longer.<span style=""> </span>We are grateful.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Ashlyn</b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQW4g_h5EOHSp5DDgcPAn5XzXpuEpw9ZUW7qSjenBcJqx4uNi_Af1DEOI7pEaxWKffj0ZGW1hi5dan-DdnMVaW2wcM5q_Vj-_1XfWpFYSOaVAeFYXWhBEliVCOunglTEG_VaUr6A/s1600/Ashlyn.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 271px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQW4g_h5EOHSp5DDgcPAn5XzXpuEpw9ZUW7qSjenBcJqx4uNi_Af1DEOI7pEaxWKffj0ZGW1hi5dan-DdnMVaW2wcM5q_Vj-_1XfWpFYSOaVAeFYXWhBEliVCOunglTEG_VaUr6A/s400/Ashlyn.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494620087968378018" border="0" /></a>- Lastly, we would like to say a HUGE thanks to Ashlyn Jacobsen who served with us from April to June.<span style=""> </span>Ashlyn did an amazing job serving at the Café and had a huge impact in the life of the youth at Beach Community Church.<span style=""> </span>Thank you Ashlyn!<span style=""> </span>We hope all is going well back in the States.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Thank you all very much for your prayers and support, especially as we enter this new chapter of pastoring the church. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Grace and Peace,</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Lyle</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAYER REQUESTS</span><b style=""><o:p></o:p></b> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">For me in my new role as pastor and for Stacey as well.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">For the Café to continue to be a haven, a light, a place of ministry.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">For our church members as they transition with us… for unity and growth.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">For me in preaching every week… that the Holy Spirit would give me the words to teach, challenge, encourage, spur on our congregation.</p> <!--EndFragment-->Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-5861020111007668542010-02-15T10:56:00.000-08:002010-02-16T07:20:18.240-08:002010 A New Year<span style="font-size:130%;">Dear Family and Friends,<br />Hello again from Costa Rica… we hear it’s been a snowy winter back in the U.S., so maybe a letter from Costa Rica might bring some warmth your way. =)<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >THE FAMILY</span><span style="font-size:130%;">…. has been doing well over the past months. To be honest, it’s been a very busy few months as you will find in our letter. I guess what I’m discovering is that when the tourist season kicks in here (Dec-Mar), </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIm1o5-RwUacPwbkEPrjPanCi-A46ohIi9tqkMh7ZlvAJnXr30hxmEvYSqyrNmJBNWNDn6X6uMNtQB-zRhgBmWNnbk8ZRK9Y-PCfPNoKRWVF2IqhPLWMu0TqcSZq7WRbjCtqK1aw/s1600-h/100_5983.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIm1o5-RwUacPwbkEPrjPanCi-A46ohIi9tqkMh7ZlvAJnXr30hxmEvYSqyrNmJBNWNDn6X6uMNtQB-zRhgBmWNnbk8ZRK9Y-PCfPNoKRWVF2IqhPLWMu0TqcSZq7WRbjCtqK1aw/s320/100_5983.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438554430620753650" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;">work and ministry also kick in. </span><span style="font-size:130%;">The café triples/quadruples in clients and sales, there are more weddings to officiate, more music gig’s to play, more e-mails to respond to, more of everything. For us…. while this means less time with family… we are grateful for the opportunities God gives us to provide for our needs.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Lyle</span><span style="font-size:130%;">- In the midst of the busyness of work and ministry, one of the highlights of my weeks continues to be Discipleship group. On a weekly basis, I meet with Daniel (intern), Marlen, (former intern), Alex, Cady, and Kevin for discipleship meetings. Right now, we are memorizing scripture verses, doing bible study regarding those verses, and reading through John Stott’s book </span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Basic Christianity</span><span style="font-size:130%;">. I love running with a pack in fellowship, prayer, and mutual encouragement. It is a lively group, and I count it a humbling privilege to be leading them deeper in their walks with Christ.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Stacey</span><span style="font-size:130%;">- A highlight for Stacey is that she recently stopped leading women’s bible study in our home, and is now attending the women’s bible study at church on Thursdays, and in Avellanas on Tuesdays. While there were several women faithfully attending the bible study in our home, Stacey felt that God was calling her to have more of a ministry of presence with others, and to connect more with other women at our church whom she was only able to see on Sundays. It was a difficult decision to make, but after a few weeks she has found it to have been a wise and fruitful decision.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Olivia and Wolfie</span><span style="font-size:130%;">- They are both healthy and doing well. We do have a fun story regarding Olivia. We’re not entirely sure how aware she was of what she was saying, but one day… while with Stacey, Olivia verbally asked Jesus into her heart. We think that's awesome. And while we questioned the level of her understanding of her decision, I am just grateful to see the spiritual influence of my wife and our church community on our children. As for Wolfie… he is now swimming!! He’s not 100% there yet, but just about. And this gives us a bit more security with regard to his safety in the pool and at the beach.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >CAFÉ CAFÉ</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />Thank you to all of you who have been in prayer for us. In looking back at the last letter, I can see prayers answered… and I’m thankful to God. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDd9iXLpZXCxDwE7Z7FhyphenhyphenlxAQIbosGLmiSVERRFMBsVQCfGLpWKAwAQ0xS1_x7lclZLslthBYq0ezUp-VkSyTc34TMipOyDAJjAof_n1-viPdJSnq1hgtqpmmCIhyjmHzpqEgj1w/s1600-h/100_6506.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDd9iXLpZXCxDwE7Z7FhyphenhyphenlxAQIbosGLmiSVERRFMBsVQCfGLpWKAwAQ0xS1_x7lclZLslthBYq0ezUp-VkSyTc34TMipOyDAJjAof_n1-viPdJSnq1hgtqpmmCIhyjmHzpqEgj1w/s320/100_6506.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438552373698117506" border="0" /></a>The Café has done great over the past 3 months… and finances are looking good for the season. In terms of outreach, we are finding more and more locals making us their regular stop for coffee, and for conversation. Please pray that these relationships will bear fruit to salvation of our friends. Lastly, I see the café growing more and more into it’s “life” as a ministry. Weekly ministry that takes place here include: Discipleship Group on Tuesday afternoons, worship/music practice on Thursday afternoons, Christian Surfer’s bible study on Thursday evenings, and now we will be hosting bi-weekly prayer meetings for the upcoming mission trip in March.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >MINISTRY INTERNS</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />In December, we were sad to see our intern Marlen have to return home due to financial concerns…. And in January we were blessed to see her come back! After ministering with the Café and Beach Community Church for a year, Marlen has felt called to continue ministering here in Tamarindo, but in the capacity of working full time, and making Tamarindo her home. This has been a huge faith step for Marlen. Please keep here in your prayers as she is looking for work and exploring creative ways to make ends meet. We are thankful for her heart to minister here with us in Tamarindo.<br />Daniel continues to serve with us, and I feel very blessed to have him to minister alongside of. I’ve truly never met anyone with such a servants heart… I learn from him daily. Daniel has also decided to serve with us through June of 2011, and as you can imagine this is a huge blessing!<br />In March, we will have a new intern arriving named Ashlyn. She will be serving with us for 3-4 months, and we look forward to having her on the team. In addition to Ashlyn, we have 3 other potential interns, all of whom would be great assets to the team here as well. Please pray with us as we discern possibilities of them serving with us.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >BEACH COMMUNITY CHURCH</span><span style="font-size:130%;">….Initially I wrote a couple of paragraphs on what we’ve been up to with BCC, but decided a condensed bullet-point version might be more appropriate….<br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Missions Week- December 7-11</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;">1.Gift distributions to local children with the help of the Samaritans Purse Christmas Gift program. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc8zWHVv2nEvdro6Zk2mbwHgvEGdogOTeD61KQ22OgxDbq4Vw4fVjMJDSof0JlsqSBrKQGS37j9MKnl0RI0M0YJFLu13OV8t2_uQ1gTg0WbjXGc0nUIiUKP0ddfBa-FJSWMSIzsQ/s1600-h/christamasgifteventElLlanito.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 397px; height: 297px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc8zWHVv2nEvdro6Zk2mbwHgvEGdogOTeD61KQ22OgxDbq4Vw4fVjMJDSof0JlsqSBrKQGS37j9MKnl0RI0M0YJFLu13OV8t2_uQ1gTg0WbjXGc0nUIiUKP0ddfBa-FJSWMSIzsQ/s320/christamasgifteventElLlanito.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438551771930436610" border="0" /></a> 2. Evangelistic Outreach to kids during the gift distribution. 3.Painting and planting plants around a local school in need. 4.Church Work day of sprucing up the church grounds. 5. Outreach to men at the Mercies of God Ministry for men in addiction recovery. 6. Several members of our church took a trip to Nicaragua during this week to distribute dresses, clothes and shoes to the poor, and to reach out with a message of Christmas hope.</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCPk4_786STIKQwwCWZurByfjtgsFG6xQjQ2Mg1YhNzDI36MNbyoySvvlOOVYedwgq9zNAYteN2Vmm4PWEgx_xRni9p8ANABr_6Z7IRtkfAGa9X6dYHMT6u5VSjDu4Sp2eoIndAA/s1600-h/100_6349.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 339px; height: 255px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCPk4_786STIKQwwCWZurByfjtgsFG6xQjQ2Mg1YhNzDI36MNbyoySvvlOOVYedwgq9zNAYteN2Vmm4PWEgx_xRni9p8ANABr_6Z7IRtkfAGa9X6dYHMT6u5VSjDu4Sp2eoIndAA/s320/100_6349.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5438550825923166914" border="0" /></a></span><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Annual Church’s Christmas Party- </span><span style="font-size:130%;">fun fellowship with our church family! </span></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >BCC Men's Retreat- </span><span style="font-size:130%;">a great time of fellowship and surf!</span></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Christmas Eve Service- </span><span style="font-size:130%;">great outreach and worship! </span></li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Hope for Haiti- Tamarindo- </span><span style="font-size:130%;">It was awesome. The local community really rallied in response. We had $2800 in raffle prizes donated for the event…. And we were able to raise a sum total of $4,780.00 that was sent to Haiti through World Vision. We thank the Lord for his faithfulness… not only were we able to raise money to help the people in Haiti, but I feel that the event was a great </span><span style="font-size:130%;">success in bringing our community of faith together with </span><span style="font-size:130%;">the un-churched in our area in a powerful </span><span style="font-size:130%;">way. Hopefully we will to see more of these sorts of interactions in the future.</span></li></ul><span style="font-size:130%;"><br />We know it is God's grace that sustains our ministry and who opens doors to bear fruit and do more. Thank you all for your continued prayers and support. Please see below for our prayer request and how to support our ministry.<br /><br />Grace and peace,<br />Lyle, Stacey, Olivia and Wolfie<br /><br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Prayer Requests</span><span style="font-size:130%;"><br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:130%;">For protection and blessing of our home/family relationships</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">For protection and blessing in our church family and our relationships with eachother.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">For wisdom and discernment in daily ministry decisions</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">For growth in our faith and obedience to Christ</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">For sustenance of financial needs at the Church and through the Cafe business</span></li><li><span style="font-size:130%;">For the Lord to bring new spiritual life out of the catastrophic events in Haiti, and a new hope filled chapter for the country.</span></li></ul><a href="http://www.tamarindochurch.org/id6.html">CLICK HERE</a> to support our ministryLyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-16381120960943873412009-11-02T12:50:00.000-08:002009-11-02T14:57:05.703-08:00Tamarindo Ministries<div style="text-align: justify;"> <meta name="Title" content=""> <meta name="Keywords" content=""> <meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; 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mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi;} @page Section1 {size:8.5in 11.0in; margin:1.0in 1.25in 1.0in 1.25in; mso-header-margin:.5in; mso-footer-margin:.5in; mso-paper-source:0;} div.Section1 {page:Section1;} /* List Definitions */ @list l0 {mso-list-id:1037852527; mso-list-type:hybrid; mso-list-template-ids:-92378752 67698689 67698691 67698693 67698689 67698691 67698693 67698689 67698691 67698693;} @list l0:level1 {mso-level-number-format:bullet; mso-level-text:; mso-level-tab-stop:none; mso-level-number-position:left; margin-left:.25in; text-indent:-.25in; font-family:Symbol;} ol {margin-bottom:0in;} ul {margin-bottom:0in;} --> </style><span style="font-size:130%;">Hello Everyone,</span>
<br />
<br /></div><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>We hope this letter finds you all doing well.<span style=""> </span>It’s been about 4 ½ months since we’ve checked in<span style=""> </span>via our update letters, so let me just jump in with some highlights of what’s been going on in our lives and ministry.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UaOsL0nTK7DfbbYgF80YH7gFwBQaezHyYmupx8rCPJLQCqJuTJ0uP-dtYxBKqx52NBhR7XgaBgRGvqOaNsuKm8hyphenhyphenc1ENNuSddFnOUpBsnTSloZh8QYKzGxCgyYg8qbBFN6SczA/s1600-h/100_2683.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9UaOsL0nTK7DfbbYgF80YH7gFwBQaezHyYmupx8rCPJLQCqJuTJ0uP-dtYxBKqx52NBhR7XgaBgRGvqOaNsuKm8hyphenhyphenc1ENNuSddFnOUpBsnTSloZh8QYKzGxCgyYg8qbBFN6SczA/s320/100_2683.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399613625240819634" border="0" /></a></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u>Family<o:p></o:p></u></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Wolfie and Olivia are both doing well.<span style=""> </span>Olivia turned 3 in June, and Wolfie turned 2 in August.<span style=""> </span>I mentioned in the last letter that Olivia was swimming on her own… and now she has moved on to boogie boarding.<span style=""> </span>Surfing can’t be too far off in the future!!<span style=""> </span>Wolfie, we love that he loves to laugh.<span style=""> </span>I think he may end up being the family comedian….we’ll see?? </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> Stacey and I are doing well also.<span style=""> </span>Stacey… continues to be a stellar mom and wife.<span style=""> </span>In addition she continues to host women’s bible study in our home and mommy group on Thursdays.<span style=""> </span>Juggling all of this and church life has it’s challenging days… but has managed to keep her sanity and faith in tact.<span style=""> </span>As for me, I was kept busy balancing between church, family, café, Marriott gigs and weddings on the side.<span style=""> </span>And by the grace of God I still have my faith and sanity in tact as well!<span style=""> </span>Praise God! =) Fun news is that we were able to take a trip home to the US to visit family in September, and were blessed to get some quality time with our parents.</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u>Café Café Interns- <o:p></o:p></u></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> This past summer, we were super-blessed to have Hannah Matthews and Raquel Rees serving with us at Café Café and with our church.<span style=""> </span>Hannah plugged in with the children’s ministry at church, and Raquel was a regular part of our praise and worship team.<span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> During the time that interns spend with us, I ask them to write a monthly report on how they are doing.<span style=""> </span>One of the questions I ask is… “what relationships in your life have been most rewarding?”<span style=""> </span>In their responses below I think you’ll get a glimpse into some of the ways God moves down here through the Café-Intern program.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6EU6VRy4QbbgI4eb9BKQM8HOr4-CcMZTBGA5QWcG8KnBSoBpV3bHBRlcZNGuqPcSviKVji3sYxF4GFQm2ryUHOxXw7OWAwDSrCUEGvT06xp-gLU2vV6XUrBrvpDWn97O8R-X7A/s1600-h/CafeInterns.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6EU6VRy4QbbgI4eb9BKQM8HOr4-CcMZTBGA5QWcG8KnBSoBpV3bHBRlcZNGuqPcSviKVji3sYxF4GFQm2ryUHOxXw7OWAwDSrCUEGvT06xp-gLU2vV6XUrBrvpDWn97O8R-X7A/s320/CafeInterns.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399612718738751650" border="0" /></a></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Raquel writes…..“One of my favorite times is Discipleship on Mondays. It is such a good mix of intellectual feasting along with some heartfelt share-time. It’s also super encouraging to have Alex and Alvaro there as an example of strong men in their faith.<span style=""> </span>Women’s bible study is also especially rewarding, and really, any time spent with Stacey. I have needed a female mentor for a long time….”</span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Hannah expresses that, “The community of believers here is unlike anything I’ve experienced in the states.<span style=""> </span>I love getting to be friends with people of all ages.<span style=""> </span>I have gotten to talk to Dave and Tamra a lot. I have enjoyed getting to hear about all of their mission experiences, and Dave has shared with me some really good Bible resources.<span style=""> </span>I have absolutely loved getting to know Stacey.<span style=""> </span>She is such an encouragement to me, and teaches me so much, whether she realizes it or not.…….. It amazes me how people I’ve known for such a short time, can talk about what the Lord is doing in everyday conversations while we hang out.<span style=""> </span>It is a huge encouragement to me to have friendships so centered on Christ, but still able to have so much fun.<span style=""> </span>Monday discipleship is one of my favorite times of the week.<span style=""> </span>I think it’s awesome to get to learn more about God in a deeper level with three Godly men, and I’ve very thankful for Lyle and his spiritual wisdom that he shares with us.”</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> Did you hear that… I have spiritual wisdom!!!<span style=""> </span>I’ve been praying for that!!<span style=""> </span>=) Haha, Anyway…..It’s encouraging to see what God is up to through and among us through the eyes of visiting interns.<span style=""> </span>Stacey and I are just thankful to be part of it all.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> As for Marlen Rivera, she is still with us after about a year now, and continues to be such an awesome servant to our church and Café ministry.<span style=""> </span>She’s a regular at the Café, volunteers with Christian Surfers, is always present to help with church events, and is a regular part of our church’s mission trips.<span style=""> </span>Marlen has a true evangelist’s heart and giftings, and we are blessed to have her on our team.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u>
<br /></u></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u>Discipleship Group<o:p></o:p></u></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">We have been meeting on Monday mornings over the past 6-7 months, and have had some very fruitful dialogue together.<span style=""> </span>The books we have been covering are “Reason for God” by Tim Keller, and we are now finishing up “Spiritual Leadership” by Oswald Sanders.<span style=""> </span>This is one of my favorite parts of the week, and I think the same would be said by our group members.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u>
<br /></u></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u>New Intern</u></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Over the past month or so, Stacey and I have been praying that God might send another intern.<span style=""> </span>So what happens… for a while, nothing.<span style=""> </span>But then just this week, we had a short term visitor to the area express that he would like to intern with us for the next four months!!! How awesome is that.<span style=""> </span>His name is Daniel, and he will be with us at least through April.<span style=""> </span>Thank you Lord!</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u>
<br /></u></b></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u>Church- <o:p></o:p></u></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""> Bible Study-</b> I continue to a lead one of the men’s bible studies for our church.<span style=""> </span>We’ve been going through Romans, and always have great discussion and fellowship together.<span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""> Prayer and Praise Night-</b><span style=""> </span>A few months ago, there seemed to be an expressed interest among people in our church for a time outside of Sunday mornings to spend in extended song and prayer together.<span style=""> </span>So, in August, I began facilitating a once a month, mid-week prayer and praise service.<span style=""> </span>All who come are blessed by this time, and attendance is steadily growing with each event.<span style=""> </span>I’m just grateful to see this spiritual hunger in the hearts of our church members.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""> Preaching </b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">In July, I finished up a sermon series on the “I Am” claims of Jesus in the Gospel of John.<span style=""> </span>As far as I can tell people were blessed by the messages…. I hope so anyway =)<span style=""> </span>The experience was definitely a blessing to me. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""> Mission Trip Nicaragua<o:p></o:p></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">In September, I was part of the leadership team for our church’s mission trip to Nicaragua.<span style=""> </span>The Café had collected a good number of clothes and shoes over the prior months that we were able to bless the poor <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qtgK5hIpehEs0klPJ-MMTv4POO5fYfApWlzrhO-ZA33VIIYd8voufyUf_ZF02Chyck8wjMUKg5AMTppdl58VPS7UXWXzdPA1aMYcIyt6szlqrkCqQcqAEgweQXcqIzZ9TY-1ew/s1600-h/NICARAGUA+010.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0qtgK5hIpehEs0klPJ-MMTv4POO5fYfApWlzrhO-ZA33VIIYd8voufyUf_ZF02Chyck8wjMUKg5AMTppdl58VPS7UXWXzdPA1aMYcIyt6szlqrkCqQcqAEgweQXcqIzZ9TY-1ew/s320/NICARAGUA+010.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399617685383359906" border="0" /></a>with in Nicaragua.<span style=""> </span>In addition to that, our group:</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> -built a cooking station for a church that feeds children who live and work in the city landfill area called La Chureca. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> -helped with the La Chureca feeding program and distributed clothes, shoes and dresses to the kids at the dump.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> -visited a Christian orphanage bringing infant/toddler clothes and supplies.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> -brought food to and shared the gospel with a poor at an impoverished barrio called Manchester.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> -built class room dividers and did roof repair for God’s School in Manchester.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"> Thank you all for your continued prayers and support of our ministry.<span style=""> </span>We are grateful for your encouragement and prayer covering.<span style=""> </span>Please see below for our prayer requests, and be sure to let us know if there is anything we can pray for you on.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: justify;"><b style="">
<br /></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;"><b style="">Grace and Peace,<o:p></o:p></b></p><div> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: 150%; text-align: center;"><b style=""><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:georgia;" >Lyle, Stacey, Olivia, Wolfie</span><o:p></o:p></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><o:p> </o:p></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal">
<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal">Prayer Requests:</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in; text-align: justify;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family:Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style=";font-family:";font-size:7pt;" > </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Prayer in thanks to God for sustaining our family in life, faith and ministry.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in; text-align: justify;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family:Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style=";font-family:";font-size:7pt;" > </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Prayer for Lyle and Stacey, that we would continue to grow in deeper in our prayer and devotional life. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in; text-align: justify;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family:Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style=";font-family:";font-size:7pt;" > </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Prayer for open doors for us to share the gospel with people at the Café and with our non-Christian friends in Tamarindo.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in; text-align: justify;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family:Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style=";font-family:";font-size:7pt;" > </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Wisdom and discernment regarding the future of the Cafe/Intern program.<span style=""> </span>Funds are running low… and we praying for a good season this Dec-April.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in; text-align: justify;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family:Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style=";font-family:";font-size:7pt;" > </span></span></span><!--[endif]-->Wisdom/Discernment for Stacey and I as we pray about ways to reduce our cost of living.
<br /></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in; text-align: justify;">
<br /></p><p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in; text-align: justify;">To Make Donations to our Ministry <a href="http://www.tamarindochurch.org/id6.html">"click here"</a>
<br /></p> <!--EndFragment--> Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-54695919717628327962009-06-16T09:34:00.000-07:002009-06-16T11:03:47.901-07:00<div style="text-align: justify;">Hello again everyone,<br />As you can imagine, a lot has happened over the past 4 months since our last update. Our family is doing well aside from a nagging cold/cough that we’ve all had our bouts with over the last month or so. High fevers with the kids had us a bit worried as we’re still only figuring out this parenting thing. Blood tests, a couple of trips to the doctors, shots for Wolfie. What an adventure. One night we were up late with Olivia during our recent trip to the U.S. She had a high fever… and this just so happened to occur shortly after the Swine Flu thing broke out. We prayed hard, worried through the night, and thank God she was fine the next morning. But it was a scary moment for new parents like us. Anyway….. on with the update.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Kids</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7GxyvZF2We0ibHEgSeM98xAsIDSyqouxmQyax6AngFji08L4KSSypigjdYeeP6gFwsyY91iKN46L6v_MMElPw7U3Fpygkq8oGznau1P4RjcNGGeRBDH_wj1LgAs6_y7l7ZZkI1A/s1600-h/100_5962+-+Copy.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7GxyvZF2We0ibHEgSeM98xAsIDSyqouxmQyax6AngFji08L4KSSypigjdYeeP6gFwsyY91iKN46L6v_MMElPw7U3Fpygkq8oGznau1P4RjcNGGeRBDH_wj1LgAs6_y7l7ZZkI1A/s400/100_5962+-+Copy.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347979178937597618" border="0" /></a><br />Wolfie is a great kid. He is full of laughter and has a tender heart. During Easter Sunday, the kids were taught the song, “hosanna, hosanna, hosanna in the highest”… and now, every so often Wolfie (and Olivia) will spontaneously burst into song singing these words, “Osanna, Osanna, Osanna haaayes”. For Stacey and I, we couldn’t have greater joy than to see our kids already learning to songs in praise to God. I imagine it brings a smile to their heavenly Father as well.<br /><br />Olivia gives us a lot of joy. While she’s in her “terrible twos” right now…… She has plenty of occasions of sweetness in her. Getting a cup of water for Wolfie, or getting his binky/pacifier and putting it back in his mouth for him. Hugging her brother until he gets annoyed with how hard she likes to hug….lol. Olivia has also learned to swim on her own over the past 3 months. Next comes surfing!!!... I hope. Below is a pic of her at her birthday party last week. She's the one in the pink bikini.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFfAHH_74dJ0l18fm-IRqCJvmBXSbSQsjVelJD1s7RPcKRp_6mH1nUmGeZcObyCk5hInF6eER7GEk9exBRw4KqlZ7fffJQW_cDe1TjNILDMAUpcHoIdgumLUGpo3_YuKsP1fM-lA/s1600-h/100_5957+-+Copy.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFfAHH_74dJ0l18fm-IRqCJvmBXSbSQsjVelJD1s7RPcKRp_6mH1nUmGeZcObyCk5hInF6eER7GEk9exBRw4KqlZ7fffJQW_cDe1TjNILDMAUpcHoIdgumLUGpo3_YuKsP1fM-lA/s400/100_5957+-+Copy.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347979021694475906" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Ministry with Stacy and Lyle</span><br />Stacey has been managing well as she juggles the responsibilities of being mom, wife, follower of Jesus, bible-study leader, part-time baker for the café, and homemaker. I’m pretty amazed at my wife and how she “does it all”. While I’m often the one reminding her to slow down and not overdo it, I have to say there is part of me that admires how well she does in all of these roles she plays. One highlight of the past four months has been the women’s bible study she lead on Beth Moore’s Breaking Free study. She led the study in our home on Tuesday mornings, and it was a true blessing to all of the women involved. Interestingly, the study consisted not only of locals, but also had a mix of international visitors: A woman from Czechoslovakia, a woman from Finland, a woman Turkey (whom I mentioned in the last update letter) and our friend Kai who is originally from Canada. All of these women were/are in important seasons of transition in their lives, and I’m confident that they would all testify that time they shared in this study was a true blessing.<br /><br />As for me… I’ve been pretty busy as well. Making a life/ministry down here doesn’t come easy. To make ends meet, I perfrom music 3x a week at the Marriott and once a week at Witches Rock surf Camp. In addition I officiate weddings and play music for people having Desitnation Weddings here in Costa Rica. While those things allow me to meet our financial needs down here, more than anything my heart is in what God’s been doing in the ministry realm. In recent months, two ministries have surfaced mostly by means of God working in the hearts of people in our congregation. First, a men’s bible study has formed out of a core group of 4 guys from the area of Tamarindo and the beaches south of us who are hungry to grow in their faith as we fellowship weekly over coffee and scripture. We meet at the Café every Friday morning from 8-10:30. Not only has it been an encouragement and blessing for all of us, I think it is also catching the attention of our regulars who come in and out while we are meeting on the front porch. Second, about 3 months ago, I proposed the idea of forming discipleship group with some of the young 20 something folks whom God has brought forth to be leaders in church an ministry in our church and in the area. They were instantly eager to start, and since that time we have been meeting regularly on Monday mornings from 8-10am for prayer, bible study, and discussion revolving around Oswald Sanders’ book Spiritual Leadership, and Tim Kellers’ Reason For God. For added richness to our discussion, we have also include our Café interns in the group. I have to say that these to events are both highlights to my week. Their enthusiasm and hunger to dig into their faith and into ministry is contagious. God is doing great things in our church and in our area, and we are grateful to be a part of his plans here.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Café Café</span><br />Some of you may remember me mentioning our Café Intern Marlen in the last letter. She was originally to be here for only 3 months and well….. 3 months turned to 6, and now 6 months has turned into committing to serve with us for an additional year. Marlen has been instrumental in the Café ministry, leadership of the Tamarindo Christian Surfers ministry, as well as hosting weekly youth group meetings at our church….. and did I mention being a regular on our Church’s missions/outreach events. We are grateful to have her with us for the coming year.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">New Interns- </span> Just last week, we had 2 interns arrive from Houston named Raquel and Hannah.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsEZ9RMLmbgq60qDZKibN3xuJmhIFxEqfXvMURRxIh3XYTSCiU_XVRzYpP92AU-UhiLlnATU39a1Y11aJrMyQrYXTr69vCGj-47jZdYCJNgvm5Py3_Xa8I1DVyGiXgnC0WmweeKg/s1600-h/100_5872+-+Copy.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 348px; height: 336px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsEZ9RMLmbgq60qDZKibN3xuJmhIFxEqfXvMURRxIh3XYTSCiU_XVRzYpP92AU-UhiLlnATU39a1Y11aJrMyQrYXTr69vCGj-47jZdYCJNgvm5Py3_Xa8I1DVyGiXgnC0WmweeKg/s400/100_5872+-+Copy.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347979261533282530" border="0" /></a> They are college students at Texas A&M, and will be with us until mid August. Already, Raquel has plugged into Sunday music at church, and Hannah is pretty pumped to help with the children’s ministry on Sundays. In addition to serving, as I mentioned earlier, they will also be participating the Tuesday discipleship group while they are here. We are thankful for them and pray that they are blessed as they become part of our ministry community.<br /><br />There is so much more that has been going on, but as as was the case with the gosple of John, if we tried to record all that Jesus is doing in our area, there wouldn’t be enough books to contain all of the stories. We are truly blessed to be part of the work God is doing in our area.<br />Thank you all very much for your prayers and support of our family and our ministry.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Grace and Peace to you,</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Watson Family</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAYER REQUESTS</span><br />• That God would give us wisdom, discernment and openness to anything “new” that he have us do in our community to be a witness to non-believers in our area.<br />• For God’s continued growth of our Church community in depth of spiritual maturity, and in numbers as our heart is to reach unbelievers.<br />• For God’s continued financial provision for our church and for our ministry in these uncertain times economically.<br />• For our faith and obedience to Christ to Grow every day.</div>Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-11585790987465297212009-02-03T09:53:00.000-08:002009-02-03T10:14:57.216-08:00Seasons- Tamarindo Ministries<meta equiv="Content-Type" content="text/html; charset=utf-8"><meta name="ProgId" content="Word.Document"><meta name="Generator" content="Microsoft Word 12"><meta name="Originator" content="Microsoft Word 12"><link rel="File-List" href="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CLYLEWA%7E1%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_filelist.xml"><link rel="themeData" href="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CLYLEWA%7E1%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_themedata.thmx"><link rel="colorSchemeMapping" href="file:///C:%5CUsers%5CLYLEWA%7E1%5CAppData%5CLocal%5CTemp%5Cmsohtmlclip1%5C01%5Cclip_colorschememapping.xml"><!--[if gte mso 9]><xml> <w:worddocument> <w:view>Normal</w:View> <w:zoom>0</w:Zoom> <w:trackmoves/> <w:trackformatting/> <w:punctuationkerning/> 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mso-tstyle-rowband-size:0; mso-tstyle-colband-size:0; mso-style-noshow:yes; mso-style-priority:99; mso-style-qformat:yes; mso-style-parent:""; mso-padding-alt:0in 5.4pt 0in 5.4pt; mso-para-margin-top:0in; mso-para-margin-right:0in; mso-para-margin-bottom:10.0pt; mso-para-margin-left:0in; line-height:115%; mso-pagination:widow-orphan; font-size:11.0pt; font-family:"Calibri","sans-serif"; mso-ascii-font-family:Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-hansi-font-family:Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin;} </style> <![endif]--> <p class="MsoNormal">Hello Everyone,</p> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Greetings from the warm sunny climate of Costa Rica!!<span style=""> </span>(Had to add that in.<span style=""> </span>I hear it’s been freezing up there!…haha)<span style=""> </span>In all honesty, I do miss the seasons of the year…even Winter.<span style=""> </span>The cycle of natures life and colors turning and changing… then returning again and starting over.<span style=""> </span>Hopefully we’ll see some of that in our economy right…<span style=""> </span>clearly we are in a season of hard times, but we trust that in time (and as we see it, in God’s time) the season will turn.<span style=""> </span>I was talking to a friend yesterday, one of our café regulars, and I think he summed it up well.<span style=""> </span>“<span style=""> </span>We all just have to hunker down and ride it out”.<span style=""> </span>And so I pray God’s grace for us all as we hunker down and ride out these times…. That we may be the salt of the earth and the light of the world especially in these hard times.<span style=""> </span>That God’s grace, kindness, and joy will be especially evident in and through the church.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>By the grace of God our family is doing well.<span style=""> </span>While we all have had our bouts with colds here and there, we are doing well and we are thankful for it. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Wolfy</span>- is learning 3 syllable words.. which is amazing to us.<span style=""> </span>His vocabulary has grown and now consists of the words papaya, zapato, banana,hello, mama, daddy.<span style=""> </span>He also has shown and interest in drums and guitar.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpa9mP2vHBxGrycs-bq7qFakSvPxnxf-RGqi97XFje54b8C8KfT8DsAqPqsAG_tm62dCJ3ixTYXEtB5i6oJ9T54snnpsOeDCH9KRFcLkjeUeycogxHYqCT0ybrluFs1hD-klalAA/s1600-h/100_5293.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 502px; height: 376px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpa9mP2vHBxGrycs-bq7qFakSvPxnxf-RGqi97XFje54b8C8KfT8DsAqPqsAG_tm62dCJ3ixTYXEtB5i6oJ9T54snnpsOeDCH9KRFcLkjeUeycogxHYqCT0ybrluFs1hD-klalAA/s400/100_5293.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5298634788965783858" border="0" /></a><span style=""> </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Olivia</span>- has also grown in her communication skills… forming 2-3 word sentences.<span style=""> </span>She loves to break into spontaneous dance which resembles a combination of ballet and hippie-like free dance.<span style=""> </span>Closing her eyes, she gets lost in her own world of free expression. Sometimes<span style=""> </span>I’m not sure of whether to encourage this theme of freedom… or fear it’s implications for future boundary and disciplinary issues…haha.<span style=""> </span>We love seeing our kids grow.<span style=""> </span>One touching moment to share is from bed time.<span style=""> </span>One night I asked, “Olivia, do you want to pray?”<span style=""> </span>She answered a quick, “yeah!”.<span style=""> </span>So we all closed our eyes… not knowing what to expect because she’s never prayed before.<span style=""> </span>And she began to pray, “blah….blah God, blah…blah-blah mommy, daddy, wolfy, lola, poopa, grandma granpa…blah blah-blah… blah… Amen”.<span style=""> </span>What a blah-blah-blah blessing to us!!</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Ministry Highlights</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mommy Group</span>-<span style=""> </span>has had upwards to 15-20 moms in attendance with their toddlers… .and the event has continued to be a place where God forms relationships of care love and trust between women from our church and non-Christian women in our community.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Women’s Bible Study-</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>Stacey and Jen have been co-leading a womens bible study for the past 2 years or so, but have recently “split” the bible study into two meetings; one in Tamarindo in our home, and the other on the beach in Playa Avellanas.<span style=""> </span>Stacey is now facilitating a 6 week study on the Beth Moore study Breaking Free.<span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tamarindo Ministries/ Café-Café </span>- Through our web presence, the Café has been a success as a connecting point.<span style=""> </span>Last month,we<span style=""> </span>were found by a couple from Turkey that had recently become Christians (last October).<span style=""> </span>The husband had converted from the Muslim faith to Christianity, and the wife from New Age philosophy and spirituality to Christianity.<span style=""> </span>This has been a radical transition for both of them.<span style=""> </span>Ebru is now in Stacey’s bible Study, and Achmed is plugged into our men’s bible study.<span style=""> </span>Please keep them both in your prayers as they build a foundation of faith in Christ… their names are Achmed and Ebru.<span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal">Thanks!<span style=""> </span>Thank you Lord for …</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Hill family</span>… Wes, Jeanna, Hayden, Landen, Aubry- for blessing our family, our ministry, our church, and our community.<span style=""> </span>The Hill family truly a part of our ministry family here during their stay in Tamarindo from September-December.<span style=""> </span>We truly miss having them with us…. And hope they will be able to serve with us again in the future.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Our present Café interns</span> Marlen and Josh.<span style=""> </span>Marlen had completed her commitment to serving with us last December, but has extended her time with us to April.<span style=""> </span>In addition to continuing at the Café, she will serve as leader of our church’s youth ministry.<span style=""> </span>She has been a great asset to the ministry team her, and continues to bless us with her heart to serve our church and community.<span style=""> </span>Our newest intern, Josh, arrived in early January.<span style=""> </span>Josh has plugged into the Café ministry with ease, and he has been a blessing to us in serving our church with his music talents (drums/guitar).</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Grace and Support-</span><span style=""> </span>We thank God for his grace that sustains us in life, marriage, parenthood, and ministry.<span style=""> </span>And we thank God for friends and family like you who pray for and encourage us.<span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="font-weight: bold; text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal">Grace, Peace, and Blessings to you all!!</p><div style="font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"> </div><p style="font-weight: bold; text-align: center; font-family: georgia; font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;">Lyle, Stacey, Olivia, and Wolfy</span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify; font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal">Prayer Requests-</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Achmed and Ebru</span>- God’s grace and mercy in their transitions of life and faith.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lyle and Stacey-</span> for our marriage.<span style=""> </span>For daily balance between our family commitments and our call to ministry.<span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Café Café </span>– for God use the coffeehouse as a “light”, shining forth grace, kindness to all who enter our doors.<span style=""> </span></p> Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-64873692725212982342008-10-03T14:42:00.000-07:002008-10-08T09:08:00.727-07:00THANK GOD FOR CAFE INTERNSHello Everyone,<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7BJCu2a0t6YEib-EJWzs_k8JBNwTZbf20mg6ckAfbn6IbzPDNIGF5NHFDWN8E7GyWQGqgV8yWNXlZdUQNJ_b0KLmxnaoOJubEbUwsRlHCWYRe7uVEQdUgNhRh540OHWCYNXlyEg/s1600-h/100_4911.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 196px; height: 148px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7BJCu2a0t6YEib-EJWzs_k8JBNwTZbf20mg6ckAfbn6IbzPDNIGF5NHFDWN8E7GyWQGqgV8yWNXlZdUQNJ_b0KLmxnaoOJubEbUwsRlHCWYRe7uVEQdUgNhRh540OHWCYNXlyEg/s400/100_4911.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253058377388031426" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: justify;"><br />We hope this letter finds you doing well. It’s a rainy afternoon here at the Coffeehouse. No better time for writing and catching up with you. All is well here with our family. As for the kids, Wolfy started walking a couple of months ago. And Olivia… she in the midst of potty training??? What an interesting life experience for the family. So we have this system where, if Olivia goes to the potty in the toilet, she gets to take a small fist-full of peanut MnMs, from aclear plastic jar we keep next to the toilet. Picture it; Daddy, Mommy and Wolfy all crowded around the toilet giving Olivia hi-fives while saying “yeah kaka” for our smiling daughter. I never in my life imagined I’d be part of such an event… but it does keep life interesting. Anyway…<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stacey </span>continues to co-lead the women’s bible study on Tuesday mornings while also facilitating Mommy Group on Thursday mornings. Both events continue to attract new comers and are going strong <span style="font-weight: bold;">(Below- Mommy</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> Group on Olivia's Birthday)</span> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAY-uxQnuRdQH4HBptc3fNcKOnzNBZUwwRTuaFH788njTvlxw6dn4G0pJBagN0TK8wvxZoPGDLlns978jj10d8LluFbzyh6jA5oxlpwc7VGBip1kUlTIooaCAKoLyIYtdtXrdGMg/s1600-h/MommyGroup.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 427px; height: 305px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAY-uxQnuRdQH4HBptc3fNcKOnzNBZUwwRTuaFH788njTvlxw6dn4G0pJBagN0TK8wvxZoPGDLlns978jj10d8LluFbzyh6jA5oxlpwc7VGBip1kUlTIooaCAKoLyIYtdtXrdGMg/s400/MommyGroup.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253060031578306738" border="0" /></a>even in the rainy season. Right now, Stacey is leading the women’s bible study through a Beth Moore video/study series on the book of Daniel, and they are having some spiritually rich discussion. Last week, she boasted, “everyone was in tears…”. I’m guessing that was a good thing… right? In addition, Stacey will soon be taking on a ministry on Sunday mornings for mothers of toddlers at church. She has designed a “kid coral” to keep toddlers safe and entertained during church worship. We should have that up and running by the end of October.<br /><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lyle</span>- As for me, I have been leading Agape Group every other Wednesday night up until about a month ago. At that point, we finished our study on the Beatitudes (Lloyd-Jones), and now we are considering where to go next with the group. Aside from Agape group I’ve kept a pretty full schedule with leading church worship, landscaping the church, and working through a low-season to-do list at the Café. In addition to the above activities, here are some other highlights of the past several months.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Café Café- </span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Interns-</span> It has been our vision at the Café that we would have interns come and serve at the Café in the community, and it has been such a blessing over the past several months to see this vision realized through a number of interns that have served with us. .<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Kristina Clark</span> served full time at the Café from April-July. In addition to Café responsibilities, she also served our church community by leading our church’s youth group on several occasions and going on a weeklong mission trip to Nicaragua. Kristina plugged into ministry in on so many other levels that this letter wont permit me to include. In short, we hope to have more interns with a heart like hers in the future.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The North Carolina Crew-</span> During the month of June, the café was blessed with five recent high school graduates <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3nUwPd1OM00o45GGjqh84GBbBlBB9PQt-7rMp7Pd_aCw1WigDbebjsJn0n7I8dpo57LTlftm-joxo58Wm-flSJf8owMP6ozNgXZZ0Bo9Lpio4rqSolQSEN4uKyFSQ-_HlqSRfTw/s1600-h/Internsrecycle.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 430px; height: 263px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3nUwPd1OM00o45GGjqh84GBbBlBB9PQt-7rMp7Pd_aCw1WigDbebjsJn0n7I8dpo57LTlftm-joxo58Wm-flSJf8owMP6ozNgXZZ0Bo9Lpio4rqSolQSEN4uKyFSQ-_HlqSRfTw/s400/Internsrecycle.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254516074661898082" border="0" /></a>(Morgan, Drew, Laura, Burcu, and Katie) who served in a variety of ways. Collaboratively, they; worked the Café 2-3 days a week, taught art classes at CEPIA (a local organization helping at risk youth in the area), co-led our church’s youth group, sealed and painted parts of our church, volunteered with Tamarindo Recycling Program, and volunteered helping with a local law firm. It was disorienting just watching them run from here to there serving in so many ways. THANKS GUYS!<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Keith Holmes</span> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTfjnzN07IkOh95smdD5ZBQsQB6yWOxtgJUgI-jyrv5RKfWdxhDzM_tnUyGTmX2KNhZQxkOxdRg-cSb4CCFQ1fGjqbDo-5OJ70CYiHhoFxnhOSmfWVQIlkmCmOpQGHeBPMmtFjKQ/s1600-h/DSC02039+-+Copy.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTfjnzN07IkOh95smdD5ZBQsQB6yWOxtgJUgI-jyrv5RKfWdxhDzM_tnUyGTmX2KNhZQxkOxdRg-cSb4CCFQ1fGjqbDo-5OJ70CYiHhoFxnhOSmfWVQIlkmCmOpQGHeBPMmtFjKQ/s320/DSC02039+-+Copy.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254515128645240034" border="0" /></a>has been our most recent intern…. And flew back to California just yesterday. I call him “ the anchor”. He really held the fort down while Stacey and I were in the U.S. visiting family and attending the Willow Creek Leadership Conference in Virginia Beach. Keith has been a blessing as he has helped out with our church’s youth group and served on our church’s Nicaragua Missions trip in early September. We will really miss having him around.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Hill Family- Wes, Jeanna, Hayden, Landen, Audry</span><span> arrived from California about a month ago for a 3-4 month family Sabbatical. The Hills found us through our website about a year ago, and finally got to meet in February during a "scouting" visit they made. We have been grateful for them as they have been super pro-active in plugging into the Cafe and ministry in our area. We are grateful for their friendship as well as their heart to serve.<br /></span><span style="font-weight: bold;">Marlen Rivera</span> arrived about a week ago from Houston, TX. On her first day, she followed me around the shop with a pen and paper writing down list of “things to do” around the Café. I thank God for Marlen!! What a blessing. Since her arrival, she has also found her way to serving at the welcome desk at our church and helping out with “kid’s club” at the local Calvary Chapel church plant.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Book Lending- </span>We recently… finally… have gotten around to cataloguing our “lending books” at the Café, and we are especially excited to get this list out to our church folks in the area. In sum we have<br />• 220 Misc. Christian Books (Yancey, Lewis, Graham, Jenkins, Lucado, Eldredge, Willard etc)<br />• 19 Christian Ed Videos<br />• 45 Audio Sermons-Bible Studies (Andy Stanley, Rick Warren, Calvary Chapel, etc.)<br />• 40 Marriage and Family (Gary Chapman, Chuck Coleson, Charle’s Swindoll, Leslie Parrott etc.)<br />This is an incredible resource in a place where there are no “real” bookstores. The closest book store with books in English is in San Jose (4hrs away). So… “THANK YOU” to all of you who have brought, mailed, smuggled books down for our lending program. In addition, we thank those of you who have brought used books for us to sell as well. I haven’t come up with the numbers, but I know at a glance of our records that our used book sales have helped greatly to supplement our Coffeehouse business/ministry. Thank you!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Trip to the U.S.</span>- Stacey and I were able to travel home for three weeks during July-August visiting family in Wisconsin, Virginia, and North Carolina. It was a blessing to be with our family for an extended time…. as we are usually only with family for two weeks. Highlights were a trip through Milwaukee visiting Stacey’s old stomping grounds, visiting my Uncle Ed in NC, and having Olivia and Wolfy get some grandma and grandpa time.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mission Trip-</span> Upon returning home from the U.S., I went on a mission trip with our church. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEiQeXugsVaroNerPZiM9yGd9G-BNzPiu8YL7Hro5tngWWfy-K4wrf9yqaHQTgOkAWBZIFcs0WQJsv7EtbMu9bA9ZHpa0DO-MbSthbPrsX9Sxp0RVisyfmQvfFXXTLM7JxI7nGyg/s1600-h/zincroofnicaragua.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 196px; height: 262px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEiQeXugsVaroNerPZiM9yGd9G-BNzPiu8YL7Hro5tngWWfy-K4wrf9yqaHQTgOkAWBZIFcs0WQJsv7EtbMu9bA9ZHpa0DO-MbSthbPrsX9Sxp0RVisyfmQvfFXXTLM7JxI7nGyg/s400/zincroofnicaragua.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5253053161047012738" border="0" /></a>The experience of being amidst such poverty was a powerful reminder of how blessed we are to have healthy families, homes, three meals a day, etc. While there our group worked on three projects simultaneously: building a zinc roofed “home” for a poor family of four, laying a floor for a “children’s church” area at a local church, and repairing concrete benches at a children’s feeding area in Managua’s city trash dump. Our church will be making about six of these trips a year. We are excited to see how God will work in Nicaragua and in our hearts as we serve in this way together. You can find out more about our projects at <a href="http://www.costaricachurch.com/id13.html">www.costaricachurch.com/id13.html</a><br /><br />As you can see, we have been incredibly blessed in our prayers that God would send 'laborers for the harvest". God is good. Thank you all for your continued prayers and support. We'll be in touch again in a few months. Until then....<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">the Grace and Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">The Watsons</span><br /></div><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Prayer Requests</span><br />Protection- protection of our home and family as there has been a wave of crime in our area lately.<br />Growth- in our individual relationships with God.<br />Selflessness and humility- in our marriage<br />Opportunity- to share the gospel with our non-Christian friends.<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">TO SUPPORT OUR MINISTRY- <a href="http://www.tamarindochurch.org/id6.html">CLICK HERE</a></div>Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-55028714162745511012008-06-02T13:45:00.000-07:002008-06-02T16:47:47.046-07:00We Are ThankfulHello Everyone,<br /><p class="MsoNormal"> We hope this letter finds you all doing well. If I had to sum up the following update in one sentence, it is "We are thankful". Both Stacey and I have felt very blessed in this season of life. Of course we have our difficult days, but overall, when it comes to the things that really matter in life, we feel very blessed. Thank you all for your prayers as we sense God's grace carrying us every day.<br /></p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:130%;"><b style=""><u>FAMILY</u></b></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwE3qe1KydveXOfApYalad-j1Js0lnAKX8roNfr3kBcPAh0-t9vYJXN2CfcHMsh-8uhH5lYV1MEk0yUjydZMUn9IP-az7-c5NSWM_ymNpDw8mmQzIalsb6liJVFwzbGeCxB6PwoA/s1600-h/100_4632+-+Copy.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwE3qe1KydveXOfApYalad-j1Js0lnAKX8roNfr3kBcPAh0-t9vYJXN2CfcHMsh-8uhH5lYV1MEk0yUjydZMUn9IP-az7-c5NSWM_ymNpDw8mmQzIalsb6liJVFwzbGeCxB6PwoA/s400/100_4632+-+Copy.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207393281180122306" border="0" /></a></p> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Olivia and Wolfgang</b><br />Olivia has been a lot of fun lately as she has learned to say a few words.<span style=""> </span>So far her vocabulary consists of:<span style=""> </span>mommy, daddy, oopee (short for Wolfy), caballo, agua, and of course the inevitable and ever popular among toddlers “NO”.<span style=""> </span>I understand that her next word will be “mine” right???<span style=""> </span>Haha…. anyway.<span style=""> </span>We’ve also come to find that Olivia is a huge fan of horses.<span style=""> </span>We’ve taken her horse back riding, and she laughs/screams with delight when the guide takes her galloping in open field.<span style=""> </span>Now, whenever she sees horses… in fields, on TV, or in picture books she screams “caballi”.<br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Wolfy is also growing into his own. Highlights for Wolfy are that he started crawling a couple of months ago, he recently got is first tooth, and that he loves his big sister. <span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Stacey</b>- Stacey has kept plenty busy lately as she was recently involved with helping host the annual Womens’ Retreat held in nearby Playa Flamingo.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>In early April, about 150 women from English speaking churches/ministries in Costa Rica gathered for fellowship/worship/and Bible teaching.<span style=""> </span>Aside form this, in addition to being wife and mom, Stacey continues serving in co-leadinging the womens' bible study on Tuesday mornings and hosting Mommy Group on Thursday mornings.<span style=""> </span>Please pray for Stacey as she has huge heart for her non-Christian friends, and has been pretty bold in sharing her faith with her close girlfriends.<span style=""> </span>Please keep Stacey in prayer with regard to gifts of evangelism as she desires for her friends to know the fullness of life in Christ.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Lyle</b>- In recent months, I have been blessed with more of a sense of rhythm in life.<span style=""> </span>I’ve had more regularity in my routine of taking walks and exercising, <span style=""> </span>and I’ve had a good run of taking Wednesday mornings for extended time of reading/prayer/reflection.<span style=""> </span>Both of these are crucial for me as they help to ground me spiritually, mentally and physically.<span style=""> </span>Please keep me in prayer in this regard.<span style=""> </span>I am thankful that this rhythm of life is coming back to me as it has been years since I’ve experienc a sense of routine.<span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size:130%;">MINISTRY SNAPSHOTS</span><o:p></o:p></u></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Easter Sunday</b>- we had about 225 people from our community in attendance at our Easter Service… the most we’ve ever had on a Sunday morning. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Church Building</b>- Beach Community Church received a couple of very significant donations moving the building campaign forward.<span style=""> </span>We have held a couple of significant prayer events held at the church site over the past couple of months.<span style=""> </span>And this past weekend, since the floor pavers and thatched roof were completed in recent weeks, we were able to hold our first fellowship/BBQ event on the church site.<span style=""> </span>Exciting times!</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Agape Group</b>- ….Stacey had been gently nagging me for several months, encouraging me to intiate a small group bible study including several couples in the area who are all involved in ministry.<span style=""> </span>She, being the more relational of the two of us, took more of a sensitivity to this desire among the group.<span style=""> </span>So, I think it was around Early December, we finally hosted what Stacey and her friend Jen have coined “Agape Group”.<span style=""> </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVOXNXrcgT0qKXbMPlDtxNIYN1HLYycAUD8HaQ2pslIF7a_juIc_ttHzkKDw_aht5c1BnZ0Wd17zY-3LpSoqZM_D-9YLmumELr7KB0mqMfB53paLECRfht1GDFWRWBNq7XD_U5RQ/s1600-h/100_4510+-+Copy.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVOXNXrcgT0qKXbMPlDtxNIYN1HLYycAUD8HaQ2pslIF7a_juIc_ttHzkKDw_aht5c1BnZ0Wd17zY-3LpSoqZM_D-9YLmumELr7KB0mqMfB53paLECRfht1GDFWRWBNq7XD_U5RQ/s400/100_4510+-+Copy.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207395295214506402" border="0" /></a>It has consisted of Stacey and I, three Costa Rican couples, and two couples from the U.S.<span style=""> </span>Everyone involved has a local ministry or church that they lead at some level.<span style=""> </span>We meet every other Wednesday night from 6:30-9:30 for a meal together, followed by worship, prayer, and bible Study.<span style=""> </span>Recently I have been facilitating a study on the Sermon on the Mount taken from Martn Lloyd-Jones’ messages on The Sermon on the Mount.<span style=""> </span>It’s been a blessing to all of us to be part of a group that meets on a regular basis....growing deeper friendships and deeper in faith together.<span style=""> </span>We are thankful.</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Café</b>- The Café continues as a great way of making connections with people in the community. 1.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>A couple of months ago, a young woman came in looking for a bible, so I gave her a bible.<span style=""> </span>Short of the story, she ended up attending church, bible study, and singing with the worship team.<span style=""> </span>2.<span style=""> </span>Several months back a young man, recently out of a rehab program, introduced himself to me.<span style=""> </span>Over the past several months, we have helped find him housing, bought him food for meals, and I spent the first couple months of our friendship discipling him 1-2xs a week through Purpose Driven Life.<span style=""> </span>While he is still struggling getting on his feet and going through "growing pains" in more ways than one, he attends church regularly. Our hope is to be a community of love to him as he continues to grow.<span style=""> </span>3.<span style=""> </span>Three people, in their early 30’s came into the Café.<span style=""> </span>One of them, a woman, was asking if we had the book “The Secret”. She shared how it was all the rage.<span style=""> </span>She expressed how she was looking for purpose and success in life.<span style=""> </span>I shared with her that I am a pastor, and after having given my opinion of the book I offered her a copy of Purpose Driven Life.<span style=""> </span>I told her to that she should consider it's message amids her search for answers for her life. She took it and said she would give it a read.<span style=""> </span>- We are thankful to be a place where God creates encounters like these. -<br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Interns</b>- <span style=""> </span>On March 12<sup>th</sup>, we were blessed with an addition to the team here in Tamarindo.<span style=""> </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6Z6X7I0CAyNJyrgaDWdjhvKe6WQ_5QgTKid40DazELur8iY96qDL_oVyDxzNuEKyF6MsMJn0bfI6IbbD1Kz1xMhv6xrhSeHFQCi6x1Q1RJXiUPAaqvWueydCAfzisGnKIRARJg/s1600-h/Copy+of+100_4536.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix6Z6X7I0CAyNJyrgaDWdjhvKe6WQ_5QgTKid40DazELur8iY96qDL_oVyDxzNuEKyF6MsMJn0bfI6IbbD1Kz1xMhv6xrhSeHFQCi6x1Q1RJXiUPAaqvWueydCAfzisGnKIRARJg/s400/Copy+of+100_4536.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5207394405985401890" border="0" /></a>Kristina Clark, from Virginia Beach, VA., has been serving as an intern the Café as well as helping with the Youth ministry at Beach Community Church. <span style=""> </span>By the time she leaves, she will have been with us for four months of service.<span style=""> </span>It would take pages to convey the many ways Kristina has served while with us during these months.<span style=""> </span>In sum, we just want to say that Kristina has been a huge blessing to Stacey and I, our kids, the church, and the community.<span style=""> </span>We are VERY grateful for her time with us, and it will be sad to see her go. </p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Future Interns/Help- <span style=""> </span></b>God has somewhat overwhelmed me with the number of folks who have recently expressed interest in volunteering/serving with us in Tamarindo.<span style=""> </span><u>First</u>, for the month of June we will host 3 recent high-school grads who will serve at the Café while also plugging into the Church and other local non-profits. <span style=""> </span><u>Second</u>, there is a recent college grad from Azuza Pacific University who will be joining us for 3 months serving in a similar capacity as Kristina has.<span style=""> </span>He will be arriving in early July.<span style=""> </span>And <u>third</u>, the Hill family will be coming to Costa Rica in August on something of a Sabbatical.<span style=""> </span>They will be helping at the Cafe, with the worship team at church, and possibly in tutoring English to local Costa Ricans. How awesome...thank you Lord!</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Open Mic-</b> I recently started hosting an “open mic” night at the same restaurant where I play every Monday night: Witches Rock Surf Camp.<span style=""> </span>(This extra gig has come at a time when most musician’s gigs are getting cut because of lower tourism).<span style=""> </span>I pray that this will not only be a job, but a ministry to those I meet along the way.<span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Thank you for your prayers, encouragement and support.<span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Grace and Peace to you,</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">The Watsons</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAYER REQUESTS</span></p><ul><li><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Stacey-</span></span> wisdom and gifts of evangelism in sharing her faith. Balance between caring for family, ministry, and the other things in life that compete for her energy, time, etc.</li><li><span style="font-weight: bold;">Lyle</span>- for a rhythm in life. Keeping faithful to extended time of prayer/reflection/reading on Wednesdays. Taking time for exercise/walking/surfing. For continued guidance in ministry.<br /></li><li> For our Family- Protection of our marriage, and blessing in our marriage. Protection of our children (found a large scorpion on the moquito net next to the crib).</li><li>For fruit to be born in our ministries- people nurtured in faith, people coming to faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior.</li></ul><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span><br /></p>Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-59010728086565022122008-02-11T09:39:00.000-08:002008-02-13T06:39:55.172-08:00Ministry Update February, 2008Greetings Everyone, <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in; text-align: justify;">We hope this letter finds you all doing well.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>Stacey, the kids and I are all in good health, and life has been good.<span style=""> </span>We have fared the “Dengue Season” without any cases in our home, despite the fact that we have to battle them <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjESwVj_GGWIIjqokznHyxBYqeYRpduqB3UGRbcE8_4JqiO_44rKIB_Ksfq6SEd2eGh1nk-JLzpZN-Wp_VE_kQ9uaniJ1ZaJhrX_0VxAxDYuIqzOrj6ixkRrDTyXSByX2emDa1Uw/s1600-h/Feb+2008+055+-+Copy.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjESwVj_GGWIIjqokznHyxBYqeYRpduqB3UGRbcE8_4JqiO_44rKIB_Ksfq6SEd2eGh1nk-JLzpZN-Wp_VE_kQ9uaniJ1ZaJhrX_0VxAxDYuIqzOrj6ixkRrDTyXSByX2emDa1Uw/s320/Feb+2008+055+-+Copy.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165794980241946914" border="0" /></a>daily in our house.<span style=""> </span>(Dengue is a mosquito born virus w/ symptoms kind of like Malaria/the flu… can be deadly).<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>I’ve had Dengue twice since moving to Costa Rica, so I go after the mosquitos with a vengeance.... to keep the family safe from them.<span style=""> </span>It's kinda funny but I often wish in my mind that I could shrink down to mosquito size, and duke it out “mano a mano” with them.<span style=""> </span>Anyway….we finally got around to rigging up Olivia’s mosquito net last night… helps us all to sleep a bit more at ease.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in; text-align: justify;">Now… in thinking about how much there is to communicate in our update letters, sometimes I get pretty overwhelmed, so I think I’ll just begin with some random snapshots of what’s been going on.<span style=""> </span>The last time I wrote was November 10<sup>th</sup>, and here’s what’s’ been going on since then.</p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in; text-align: justify;"><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Born Again Identity<span style=""> </span>(Nov.-Dec)<o:p></o:p></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">I taught a 5 week Adult Christian Ed series called Born Again Identity, which covered the foundational things of our Christian Faith.<span style=""> </span>Keeping in mind that Adult Christian Ed is a fairly new concept in our church, the classes were well attended and there was some meaningful dialog and discussion that took place.</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">BCC Sailing Day (Nov. 14)</b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">As part of my responsibility as Associate Pastor at BCC, I organize and facilitate events revolving around Fellowship… so, I reserved Catamaran that holds up to 70 people, and we had a Church <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmIkUnO-HazVyIfBmy-r5bwUP8TvZ-FiLvB6fk_Ard28XEIvBzY_5aIjyjAepfUjmDXQ6ZSFqPAAwQ6hc1r-b3HYyDAvk1KGCfWZ5O9ZJKsp_566om1Z2Wj0RzfuBLoxp-RHXU6g/s1600-h/IMG_2744.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmIkUnO-HazVyIfBmy-r5bwUP8TvZ-FiLvB6fk_Ard28XEIvBzY_5aIjyjAepfUjmDXQ6ZSFqPAAwQ6hc1r-b3HYyDAvk1KGCfWZ5O9ZJKsp_566om1Z2Wj0RzfuBLoxp-RHXU6g/s320/IMG_2744.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165791913635297538" border="0" /></a>Sailing Day.<span style=""> </span>It was a great success in terms of inter-generational and cross cultural fellowship and everyone just having fun and getting to know one another better.<span style=""> </span>We also had a time of worship as the sun set... and a simultaneous spectacular rainbow.<span style=""> </span> It was a very special time shared together.<br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Tamarindo Christmas Caroling Event<span style=""> </span>(Dec. 16<sup>th</sup>)<o:p></o:p></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Partnering with a friend of ours that coordinates local events, BCC held it’s first ever Christmas Caroling outreach in Tamarindo.<span style=""> </span>The beauty of the event was that it was held as an event under the sponsorship of APMT (Associacion Pro Mejores de Tamarindo/ Association for the Betterment of Tamarindo).<span style=""> </span>With this arrangement, over half of the people in attendance were the locals of the locals… non-Christian locals.<span style=""> </span>We sang carols interspersed by the reading of scripture regarding the birth of Christ.<span style=""> </span>It was pretty awesome.<span style=""> </span>I was also interviewed by the Tamarindo News following the event and was given the opportunity to give a message of God’s love for the people in our community through the local paper.<span style=""> </span>God is on the move here…</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Pastoral Care (Nov.-Dec)<o:p></o:p></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Stacey and I were honored to be able to offer pastoral care to some friends of ours named Kathy <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLz36p0mDCloWbHTPlbKnucxbjkTSpOFCBgTBynuXAI-OKWA-DD6ifFpeOhOxYuD5e3g4SAQguYq0Z0CIQ9-qE781kdtPJ1y3C_pW8FTQKWAGwIsTpLUBESDhcYgC3P23nZ2NZw/s1600-h/123_2347%5B2%5D.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQLz36p0mDCloWbHTPlbKnucxbjkTSpOFCBgTBynuXAI-OKWA-DD6ifFpeOhOxYuD5e3g4SAQguYq0Z0CIQ9-qE781kdtPJ1y3C_pW8FTQKWAGwIsTpLUBESDhcYgC3P23nZ2NZw/s320/123_2347%5B2%5D.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165790964447525106" border="0" /></a>and Dale.<span style=""> </span>Dale had been battling cancer for over two years, and as he sensed his time growing near, Stacey and I were invited to offer spiritual and emotional care .<span style=""> </span>We met with them over several weeks prior to his passing and one last time the day before Stacey and I flew home to the U.S.<span style=""> </span>for Christmas and New Years.<span style=""> </span>The next day Dale died.<span style=""> </span>It was an honor and privilege to assure both Dale and Kathy of God’s grace.<span style=""> </span>Dale left this life with the assurance and hope that, because of Jesus Christ, death does not have the final word for those who trust in Jesus. (Dale on far left)<br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">(January)</b> After our return from the U.S., I was called by the Tamarindo News editor to come and pray with a woman who was on vacation whose husband had just drown due to rip currents.<span style=""> </span>He drowned while learning to surf. <br /></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">BCC Associate Pastor… One more year<o:p></o:p></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">I may not have mentioned before, but the part time Associate Pastor position that I currently serve in at BCC is a position that comes up for yearly evaluation.<span style=""> </span>Last week my position and perferomance were evaluated, and praise God that the Elders Board decided to keep me around for another.<span style=""> </span>Stacey and I are grateful… and able to breathe a little easier with regard to the future.</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Christmas w/ CEPIA<o:p></o:p></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">A local organization called CEPIA has been a great blessing to many troubled youth in need in our area.<span style=""> </span>Though they are a secular organization, we see value in partnering with non Christians who share God’s concern for kids in need. Our hope is that might be ambassadors of Christ as we work alongside them.<span style=""> </span>BCC sponsored about 60<span style=""> </span>kids at this event, and about five of us from the church helped to distribute the gifts. At the time of distributing gifts I was given the opportunity to share a brief message of God’s love for each of those kids.</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">Café Café</b><b style=""><br /></b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">While we struggled financially through the low-season, things are back in swing.<span style=""> </span>And regardless of the finances, Café Café continues to be an invaluable part of the ministry we do here.<span style=""> </span>Several weeks ago I invited Sylvia, one of our Café regulars, to come to church.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN76byhKf6r0fQR9mA-U8ffthBXSO50I5h010EPEup6QC0SYUKNfXZl24A46Bv6ZAsfddpTolLyDOJjVWHjuNH2HryeZyfRFG0Y5NiNH3B2jbNXJByO9OfXzP8iHWBs8fdg81Zvw/s1600-h/grampa+%26+granma+nov+07+042+-+Copy.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN76byhKf6r0fQR9mA-U8ffthBXSO50I5h010EPEup6QC0SYUKNfXZl24A46Bv6ZAsfddpTolLyDOJjVWHjuNH2HryeZyfRFG0Y5NiNH3B2jbNXJByO9OfXzP8iHWBs8fdg81Zvw/s200/grampa+%26+granma+nov+07+042+-+Copy.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165789882115766498" border="0" /></a><span style=""> </span>She said, "I know I should go... I used to go, but since I got married, not so much."<br /> This week, on a different occasion, she came in to get a coffee to go and asked, “do you take donations for your church?”<span style=""> </span>I was caught a bit off guard, but answered, “Yes… of course”. How cool to think that God has been working on her heart.<span style=""> </span>He is on her mind during the week, pursuing her. My mentioning this, of course, has nothing to do with the $50. It's that God is moving in her heart. And what a privilege it is for us to get to partner in what God is doing in her life.<span style=""> </span><br /> We have also had people come in for prayer from time to time, and we are grateful to know that our Café is being perceived as a place that people can come for spiritual encouragement and prayer.</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style="">School Supplies for Local Kids </b></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Most of you are already aware that, as part of our ministry at Café Café, we collect school supplies to distribute to underprivileged local kids.<span style=""> </span>Well, over the last year, we have been <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMA3aAxeiZcYg1fYfq_3NrjnZ713X3LZk58FL0n79aMXZhBTd442g3QzjBki-Hr-VKne5W1buzYCouEeX5i2tUfdNWYQA6h7Ui4wwzcZbVTWiNYEMblCZCsT_S7FJpCnoCcQOaZA/s1600-h/100_4326.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMA3aAxeiZcYg1fYfq_3NrjnZ713X3LZk58FL0n79aMXZhBTd442g3QzjBki-Hr-VKne5W1buzYCouEeX5i2tUfdNWYQA6h7Ui4wwzcZbVTWiNYEMblCZCsT_S7FJpCnoCcQOaZA/s320/100_4326.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5165792347426994450" border="0" /></a>blessed through people who have contributed about 75 backpacks.... and many school supplies to fill them with.<span style=""> </span>A special thanks to Kyle and Colin and their church in Ireland, and to Jim and Jeanne and their church in Washington State.<span style=""> </span>Thanks to people like them, we were able to distribute school supplies to local flood victims in Filadelfia area, and to kids in areas surrounding Tamarindo.<span style=""> </span>In Filadelfia, we partnered with Youth With A Mission based in nearby Nicoya, and we distributed second-hand clothes that we collected at Cafe Cafe, along with back-packs, and basic food needs.<span style=""> </span>Just this past week in Tamarindo, we worked with a Calvary Chapel church plant (Costa Rican/Spanish-speaking) to distribute about 23 backpacks, to ad to the 10 more that were given out earlier in the year.</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>I hope this gives you a glimpse into the big picture of what God has been up to in our area of Costa Rica.<span style=""> </span>Thank you for your continued prayers. We know God’s grace sustains us daily.<span style=""> </span>Blessings to you and your families.</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style=""> </span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">In Christ,</p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal">Lyle, Stacey, Olivia, and Wolfie</p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Prayer Requests</span><br /></div>-Thanks to God for His provision and and sustenance of all our needs.<br /><br />-For the women's bible study that Stacey co-leads.... that God would continue to be a place of refuge, welcome, encouragement, and grace for those who come.<br /><br />-Wisdom for Lyle as he discerns how to best serve the church and community... discerning where to invest time, energy and resources. So many possibilities/needs in the area.<br /><br />-God's sustenance and provision for our every need... spiritually, emotionally, physically, monetarily.<br /><br />-Protection of our family and marriage.<br /><br />-For God to open doors to share the gospel with non-believers/seekers.<br /><p style="text-align: left;" class="MsoNormal">To get more involved or support us financially, find out how on our website www.tamarindochurch.com<br /></p>Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-24098988398673046232007-11-05T08:09:00.000-08:002007-11-05T09:26:23.264-08:00<span style="font-size:12;">Hello everyone,<o:p></o:p></span><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; text-indent: 0.5in; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:12;">We hope this letter finds you all doing well.<span style=""> </span>Most of you on this mailing list are living in the U.S. and are probably experiencing the crisp cool season of Fall.<span style=""> </span>Well…down here, we are in the heart of what we call “rainy-season” or “low-season”.<span style=""> </span>Last month we endured about 10 consecutive days of heavy rains, of which you might have heard about in the news… major flooding in Costa Rica and Nicaragua.<span style=""> </span>On the other hand beauty of this time of year, in addition to lush greenery, is that it gives locals some time to slow down and enjoy things like a good read, lingering conversations with friends/strangers, and time to visit with family.<span style=""> </span>And for me… it makes for good time to write an update letter.<span style=""> </span>So here we go….<o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size:12;">Family</span></u></b><span style="font-size:12;">-<o:p></o:p><br />For those of you who didn’t </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9fsjssveXcVkTGMN35ctdpdtr0V3GJ9Andhqp10noWL8rChO7105a7wL98VIhTWSy4eMzqWbDxnovbWQogL68AP5A_JmQVHVjW6bGzv3TDWFTTcjRkhfTKr-1KKSO1bAlneevIA/s1600-h/Wolfie+in+Avellanas+291+-+Copy.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 273px; height: 218px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9fsjssveXcVkTGMN35ctdpdtr0V3GJ9Andhqp10noWL8rChO7105a7wL98VIhTWSy4eMzqWbDxnovbWQogL68AP5A_JmQVHVjW6bGzv3TDWFTTcjRkhfTKr-1KKSO1bAlneevIA/s200/Wolfie+in+Avellanas+291+-+Copy.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129408180204007266" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:12;">know already, the Watson family has just had a new addition… a new baby boy in the family.<span style=""> </span>His name is Wolfgang Thomas Watson, and he was born on August 29<sup>th</sup>/5:45AM/3.5 kilos/20.25 inches.<span style=""> </span>Stacey, Wolfie, Olivia and I are all doing well…. enjoying the “diaper years” together.<span style=""> </span>After Wolfie’s birth, my (Lyle) parents came down for two weeks to <span style=""> </span>help with the adjustment to two babies, and Stacey’s parents will be visiting in November. <o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:12;"><o:p></o:p></span><b style=""><u><span style="font-size:12;">Café Café </span></u></b><span style="font-size:12;">-<o:p></o:p><br />The café continues to be a great place of outreach…. Especially in the rainy season.<span style=""> </span>Slower business has made for more meaningful interactions with locals as they aren’t’ in such a hurry to get back to work.<span style=""> </span>Thank you for your prayers in regard to this ministry as we sense and see God moving as salt and light through the Café.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:12;">New news with volunteers </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9k01FfoYymwOY8SQG5QlJBdLbXEO7bvgdPkphuFgN2JurfKT_cqVS3LYbwdOkWwsqOJVLu4jn-8zCAe2aBrhK68sc3zZMe6rqtlUiYfwsbN_BgYI1ZcE3ZaH2ufQvjzJSyfJ5gw/s1600-h/costaricachurchbrandonandleanne.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9k01FfoYymwOY8SQG5QlJBdLbXEO7bvgdPkphuFgN2JurfKT_cqVS3LYbwdOkWwsqOJVLu4jn-8zCAe2aBrhK68sc3zZMe6rqtlUiYfwsbN_BgYI1ZcE3ZaH2ufQvjzJSyfJ5gw/s200/costaricachurchbrandonandleanne.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129408802974265218" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:12;">at the Café is that two new youth ministry interns at our church (Brandon and Leanne)… have been volunteering at the café on Mondays.<span style=""> </span>This is a Godsend as it allows me a day to take care of responsibilities at the church, errands, <span style=""> </span>and other behind the scenes sort of stuff.<span style=""> </span>In addition, since they’ve come, the Café has become a fairly regular gathering place for youth events such as movie nights, scavenger hunts, etc. <span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:12;">(PICTURE)Just last weekend, the Café served as a roadside site for our “reflector program” outreach that Stacey began a few years back.<span style=""> </span>Unfortunately Costa Rica has one of the highest incidences of roadside fatalities in the world.<span style=""> </span>This is partially because many Costa Ricans use bicycles for transportation back and forth to work each day.<span style=""> </span>In fact, just last week a man was struck and seriously injured by a car right in front of the Café.<span style=""> </span>With this in mind, every so often Stacey rallies the youth group to set up roadside sites to stop cyclists and place reflector tape on </span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjN3PSfo7l4mCPNdXyUSbMNl0r_IbZuZfq-m5DGxuYRjpCM6n0V0et6sbbIZ6JoSZeMZm2pEFrjxIC2i0mmMLGGuEJwTGqZiVSfi6CkJbYm0krigkvKhUb9ulmTigAQK1Btbc0vw/s1600-h/007+%282%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjN3PSfo7l4mCPNdXyUSbMNl0r_IbZuZfq-m5DGxuYRjpCM6n0V0et6sbbIZ6JoSZeMZm2pEFrjxIC2i0mmMLGGuEJwTGqZiVSfi6CkJbYm0krigkvKhUb9ulmTigAQK1Btbc0vw/s200/007+%282%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5129408553866162034" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:12;">their bikes.<span style=""> </span>In addition to the reflector tape, they give out booklets in Spanish containing a short message of God’s love for them and the Gospel of John.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:12;"><o:p></o:p>Other ways that we have been able to interact with the community through the café are:<o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><ul style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><li><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:12;"><span style=""><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" ></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12;">People meeting with clients for business meetings<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:12;"><span style=""><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" ></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12;">Meeting for Women’s ministry event<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:12;"><span style=""><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" ></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12;">Local womens book reading group <o:p></o:p></span></li><li><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:12;"><span style=""><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" ></span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:12;">People meeting here for Spanish lessons/tutoring<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style="font-size:12;">The café is a drop-off point for items being collected in a relief-effort for flood victims.<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:12;"><o:p></o:p>Just last week, a couple came into the café and asked about the church… then confessed that they were really “scouting out” the type of church we are, then I saw them at church the following Sunday.<span style=""> </span>More than anything, it is exciting for Stacey and I to see the Café coming to<span style=""> </span>maturity as a place of ministry and connecting with non-believers.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size:12;">Beach Community Church (BCC)</span></u></b><br /><span style="font-size:12;">My role at Beach Community church continues to be primarily in worship leading, but lately I’ve found myself in the realm of publicity and web design (www.costaricachurch.com).<span style=""> </span>In addition, I will be leading my first ever Adult Christian Ed class at BCC on the core values of our church.<span style=""> </span>Please pray God’s guidance for me as I prepare and lead these lessons.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:12;">Stacey has continued to co-lead a womens bible study in Playa Avellanas (15 minutes south of us) and the women’s “mommy group”.<span style=""> </span>The bible study continues to grow in depth of relationship and in numbers.<span style=""> </span>And Mommy Group continues to be a success in providing a place of community and encouragement for women in the area.<span style=""> </span>If you could be a fly on the wall when Stacey comes home from these gatherings…. It’s exciting for me to hear each week what a blessing these groups are for the women who come.<o:p> </o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:12;">Thank you again for all of your prayers and support.<span style=""> </span>Please see the prayer requests below to know how to support and pray for us.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:12;">Grace and Peace,<o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:12;">Lyle & Stacey<o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:12;"><o:p> </o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size:12;">Prayer requests- <o:p></o:p></span></u></b><br /></p><ul style="text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><li><span style="font-size:12;">Adult Christian Education Class- that people would be encouraged in their identity as Christians and strengthened in their faith.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:12;">God would meet our financial needs…. Blessing the Café, providing alternative means and opportunities for Stacey and I to earn additional income, and increased financial contributions to our ministry.</span></li><li><span style="font-size:12;">Blessing of our outreach efforts through the Café, through the Church Christmas caroling events, and through the daily witness of our church community.<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:12;"><o:p><br /></o:p></span><b style=""><u><span style="font-size:12;">How to Get Involved</span></u></b><span style="font-size:12;"><span style=""><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" ></span></span></span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom: 0.0001pt; line-height: normal; text-align: justify;font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:12;"><span style=""><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" ></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12;">You can contribute financially through our non-profit sponsors at ACI.<span style=""> </span>There are instructions on making contributions and <span style=""> </span>a link to ACI on our website at <a href="http://www.tamarindochurch.com/">www.tamarindochurch.com</a>.<o:p></o:p></span></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><ul style="text-align: justify;"><li style="font-family:arial;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:12;"><span style=""><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" > </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:12;">Please donate used books to Café Café.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></li><li style="font-family:arial;"><span style="font-size:12;"><span style=""><span style="font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: normal; font-size-adjust: none; font-stretch: normal;font-size:7;" ></span></span></span><span style="font-size:12;">Donate second hand clothes or children school supplies for local poor families.<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style="font-size:12;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Contact Lyle to make donations of books or clothes. (tamarindochurch@aol.com)</span><o:p></o:p></span></li></ul>Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-44250258438973366452007-07-12T16:03:00.000-07:002007-07-12T17:07:40.275-07:00On Our Way<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Hello Everyone,<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><span style=""> </span>Things are a little slow here at the Café today, so I figured it would be a good time to catch you up on life and ministry here in Tamarindo.<span style=""> </span>It’s been several months since I’ve touched base with you all, so I’ll try to be brief with what’s been going on.<span style=""> </span>First… a family update. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><u><span style="">Nuestra Familia<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="">Olivia</span></b><span style="">- Just turned 1 year old on June 12</span><span style=""><sup>th</sup>, and we celebrated at home with a couple of her girlfriends over cake and a pool party.<span style=""> </span>Good times.<span style=""> </span>Olivia is now walking, dancing, has about 6 ½ teeth, and can keep herself afloat in the pool with her inflatable water-wings.<span style=""> </span>I’m hoping that we can get her on a surfboard by this time next year….?</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPZAsqG2C6ddr-gyh6SAv5kyQBQEBDHw3MAFKa3V3svcUc67i8MNVPaJQTsu9YyPBwacS0-iA_sCmUn3xNeWZgWuHDJO2z4Na5n_fsyHd_RrNwgxxIo2-kya7G7di61sniqulXPw/s1600-h/Olivia's+B-day+227.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 219px; height: 164px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPZAsqG2C6ddr-gyh6SAv5kyQBQEBDHw3MAFKa3V3svcUc67i8MNVPaJQTsu9YyPBwacS0-iA_sCmUn3xNeWZgWuHDJO2z4Na5n_fsyHd_RrNwgxxIo2-kya7G7di61sniqulXPw/s320/Olivia's+B-day+227.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5086462425275272802" border="0" /></a><span style=""> <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="">Wolfy</span></b><span style="">- is are baby ineutero. <span style=""> </span>6 weeks away from delivery now- due on Aug 28<sup>th</sup>!<span style=""> </span>Stacey and I are <span style=""> </span>about 98% sure about what his name will be… <i style="">Woflgang Thomas Watson</i>.<span style=""> </span>The first and middle names come from both of our fathers.<span style=""> </span>Wolfy is in good</span><span style=""> health, squirming around a lot, making the surface of mom’s tummy look like a wriggle sack of potatoes.<span style=""> </span>We’re looking forward to his arrival.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="">Stacey</span></b><span style="">- Is right around completion of the book <i style="">Captivating</i> with her women’s reading group.<span style=""> </span>She is still participating in the women’s bible study in Avellanas and as for hosting “mommy group”, she has recently put that on the back burner with the pregnancy becoming a bit more taxing.<span style=""> </span>Stacey’s back has been bothering her a bit, so please keep her in your p</span><span style="">rayers. <span style=""> </span>It is apparently a minor concern medically, yet worth keeping in prayer as it is at times very painful.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="">Lyle</span></b><span style="">- Is keeping busy with managing and making improvements with the café.<span style=""> </span>At this time, the café is making enough to cover costs… and a little extra, and we are grateful for that.<span style=""> </span>Most importantly, it has proved to be a great venue for building relationships with people in the community.<span style=""> </span></span><span style="">We’ve had a number of locals and tourists find out about church services and bible studies through the Café. <span style=""></span></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9beI8718oVAzu9LQe_ASaudEJEScBS30DFWjDZ0J_i7-9DFkCkTliLdYVXahm6w5l-YZk9leMjwscVVSml1HWE27EVyDgdCUFdBv7L8drddgE8ys-5c52jWM_uq10rqHDlnnvQ/s1600-h/101_3400.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 235px; height: 176px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw9beI8718oVAzu9LQe_ASaudEJEScBS30DFWjDZ0J_i7-9DFkCkTliLdYVXahm6w5l-YZk9leMjwscVVSml1HWE27EVyDgdCUFdBv7L8drddgE8ys-5c52jWM_uq10rqHDlnnvQ/s320/101_3400.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5086465689450417794" border="0" /></a><span style="">Just last weekend while officiating a wedding ceremony, I was talking with the wedding coordinator, Donna, about our church.<span style=""> </span>In my conversation with her-</span><span style=""> almost verbatim- she said “You know….what was smart was opening that Café.<span style=""> </span></span><span style="">People are talking.<span style=""> </span>They say, ‘you know the owners of that new café have a church.’”<span style=""> </span>How awesome<span style=""> </span>is that?!?<span style=""> </span>What an affirmation of what we are trying to do through the café… to be a witness and presence for Christ in our community.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Lastly, I think we ought to mention our ministry to school</span><span style=""> children in the area.<span style=""> </span>One way that we’ve decided to minister to the poor in our area is by collecting and distributing school supplies to children in our area.<span style=""> </span>We’ve been using the café for collecting school supplies and back packs for local children who’s family’s have a difficulty affording them.<span style=""> </span>We are now in the process of identifying kids in need, and will be distributing materials in the near future.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="text-align: center;" class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="">God’s Provision and a Dude Named Nik</span></b><span style=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">In the last update letter, we had mentioned our need for help with finances.<span style=""> </span>We are thankful to be able to say that God has helped meet our needs in some interesting ways.<span style=""> </span>First, I have been hired on as an Associate Pastor (part-time) at Beach Community Church, the church just north of us!<span style=""> </span>I was brought on staff in May to help with worship music, preaching from time to time, and to help with Small Groups and membership classes.<span style=""> </span>This has been a great partnership and fit for all we are trying to do in the Beach areas, and we are thankful for this open door.<span style=""> </span>Secondly, I have started performing acoustic in a local restaurant, Eat at Joe’s, at a local surf camp called Witches Rock.<span style=""> </span>This has helped meet our financial needs and has also been a great way to befriend people from our community.<span style=""> </span>Lastly, I’ve been performing wedding ceremonies in conjunction with a Destination Wedding coordinator.<span style=""> </span><span style=""> </span>We are grateful to God for the ways He has provided.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">We have been blessed with help at the Café- Nik Safos from Virginia Beach, VA. has been here since May 10<sup>th</sup>, and will be with us through July 24<sup>th</sup>.<span style=""> </span>He has been a God-send, helping run the Café… which has allowed me to give time and attention to a number of things I haven’t been able to get to with our home, with the Café, and with church.<span style=""> </span>He has also initiated a bible discussion group for locals and travelers, and helped with stuff at the church.<span style=""> </span>He has been a blessing.<span style=""> </span>Thank you Nick!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraph" style="margin-left: 0.25in;"><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Sorry for the lengthy <span style=""> </span>update.... makes me realize I need to write more often.<span style=""> But in </span>sum, we want to communicate that we are so grateful for the way’s God has provided and how he sustains us each day.<span style=""> </span>It is such a journey… life, faith, ministry.<span style=""> </span>We lean on Christ in every way .<span style=""> </span>Please keep our family and ministry in your prayers.<span style=""> </span>May God’s grace and peace be yours in abundance. <o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">w/ love,<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="">Lyle, Stacey, Olivia, Wolfy<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style=""><o:p> </o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b style=""><span style="">HOW TO GET INVOVLED<o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family:Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style=""> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style=""><span style="">School Supplies- </span></b><span style="">Donate supplies or funds for local children.<span style=""> </span>(e-mail us for more info)<b style=""><o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family:Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style=""> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style=""><span style="">Used Books- </span></b><span style="">Send used books to us via USPS “M” Bags-<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.75in;"><span style="">Send to: Lyle & Stacey Watson<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.75in;"><span style="">#13 Monte Perla Condominiums<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.75in;"><span style="">Tamarindo, Guanacaste, Costa Rica<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpMiddle" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family:Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style=""> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style=""><span style="">Finances- </span></b><span style="">Give financially through ACI at<span style=""> </span>www.tamarindochurch.com/contribution.htm<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoListParagraphCxSpLast" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-family:Symbol;"><span style="">·<span style=""> </span></span></span><!--[endif]--><b style=""><span style="">Prayer- </span></b><span style="">support us in prayer as we reach out to the unchurched in our community.<o:p></o:p></span></p>Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-1170880722918151832007-02-07T12:35:00.000-08:002007-02-07T12:42:13.973-08:00Tamarindo Ministries- Taking FormHello Everyone,<br /> We hope this letter finds you all doing well. Stacey and I are doing fine here in Tamarindo..... plenty busy with our little Olivia (7 months now) and doing our best to be a part of God’s plans for the Tamarindo community. Unfortunately we didn’t make it home for the Christmas holiday this year, but this did afford us the opportunity to celebrate with our community down here in Tamarindo. Anyway….there is so much to catch you up on, so let me dive right in.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Ministry Taking Form<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br />After spending a year offering bible study and a local worship service in Tamarindo, Stacey and I have learned a lot about ministering in Tamarindo. It was around September-October of last year that we began questioning whether hosting a worship service each week was the best use of our time and energy. After lengthy conversations with God, with one another, and with a church-plant expert- as well as attending a church plant conference in N.Y.- we came to the conclusion that we needed to shift gears. Part of the gear shifting meant that we stop holding worship services in Tamarindo… and that we spend more of our time and energy just building relationships with people in the community. With that in mind we’ve made some changes….<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Beach Community Church<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br />Lately we’ve become more involved with Beach Community Church, just 20 minutes north of us. I presently lead worship there every Sunday, and I am currently on the board of elders. Beach Community Church has been very supportive of our ministry efforts in Tamarindo, and we are grateful for the fellowship and encouragement that we’ve found there. The church has also been open to the vision that we would be a sister church to them in the future.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Lyle<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br />During the months of Nov.-Dec., I was hosting/leading the Tuesday night bible studies which are being held at the Cafe. We went through a bible study series based on the Bill Hybel’s book Too Busy Not To Pray, and now our men’s group is going through a small group study called “Beginning Life Together”, which is part of the Purpose Driven Life series. Aside from small groups and my involvement with Beach Community Church, much of my time and energy has been focused on getting the Cafe ministry rolling. I’ll fill you in more on this later….<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Stacey<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br /> Once or twice each month, Stacy has been hosting what her group calls “Mommy Group”. She invites mothers who are pregnant or with young children to gather for a lesson on cooking/baby care/etc., and for forming new friendships. There have been about 15-20 women in attendance at the gatherings, about half of them non-Christians. Several of these women have been visiting church and bible studies. It is neat to see God work through this ministry. In addition to this gathering, Stacey has also joined a women’s bible study just south of us in Playa Avellanas which she led for six weeks in Dec.-Jan. Leading a women’s bible study has been a new frontier for Stacey… and it’s been a great experience for her. Her next endeavor be leading a discussion group on the book Captivating, which will start in a couple of weeks.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Cafe Cafe<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br />Cafe Cafe- is the name of our recently opened Tamarindo Coffeehouse!! We’ve had a vision for starting a coffeehouse for some time now, and recently things have come together to make this a reality. So many individuals have helped us along the way including a professional welder, professional artists, and friends from the church….. who have all given of their time and talents to help us get the Cafe up and running. We are so grateful to them all. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Volunteers-</span> We’ve also been blessed to have three young women each volunteering about 24 hours/week at the cafe. Alli and Jessica are missionaries with about three months of free time to serve until their next commitments, and Sarah is here with her husband on an extended Honeymoon in Tamarindo. In addition, we’ve had help from friends at the church who give several hours a week to help in the Cafe… including the pastor. How crazy is all of this? We have been so blessed with regard to getting the cafe going, and we anticipate that God touch people’s lives through this venture. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">The Vision- </span> In the end we hope that the cafe will be seen not only as another business in town… but more so as a group of people that love and serve God, and who love and serve the surrounding community. One of the ways we will do this is to have our volunteers serve not only in the Cafe, but areas of the community where they can be a witness to Christ’s love. In essence, we hope to “infiltrate” this community with the light of Christ. For example….Jessica has been helping out with Youth With A Mission which is just south of us in Nicoya. Alli has been volunteering a couple of days a week at CIFI… a local pre-school. And Sarah has had opportunities to serve with CEPIA… an organization that works with at risk children and teens. By doing these things, we are able to build genuine friendships with unchurched people. <br /><br />Finally, we also hope to use our coffee house for programs such as tutoring in English and Spanish, or hosting bible studies for language school students traveling through Tamarindo. There are a number of possibilities for what we might do in the future…but as they say here in Costa Rica…. “Poco a poco”… little by little. <br /> <br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Our Family<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br /> In closing, we ask that you continue to pray for us…. for our marriage, for our ministry, and for our community. We are doing well, but ministry in Costa Rica has it’s challenges as it does anywhere else. In particular, a recent realization for Stacey and I is that we will need to resort to “tent-making” (working to support ourselves financially) in order for us to continue to do ministry here. We are totally comfortable with this, but it is also our hope is to have this burden lightened with support from abroad. If you can help in any amount, please see our website www.tamarindochurch.com, and click on the link “financial support”. See the bottom of this letter for further directions.<br />On and ending note, we’d like to share with you all that Stacy is about 8 weeks pregnant with our next baby!! Our baby is due to be born on August 28th, and we are super-excited. <br /><br />Thank you all for your friendship, prayers, and support. <br /><br />Grace and peace to you all,<br /><br />Lyle, Stacey & Olivia<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Donations/Financial Support:<span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span><br />We receive financial support through ACI International. To support us financially, go to…<br />1. Go to www.aciint.org<br />2. Click on “Giving”<br />3. If you scroll down to their mailing address, you will find how to donate via Paypal, and how to donate by mailing a check in. <br />4. Please be sure to designate that you are supporting Tamarindo Ministries. Thank you.Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-1155147260884645192006-08-09T11:06:00.000-07:002006-08-09T11:14:20.900-07:00One year DownDear Family and Friends,<br /><br /> It is August 7th today. It has been one year, two months, and six days since I’ve been in Costa Rica….. and I am still blown away at the journey that God has swept me into down here. So much change in so little time, and though it has often felt overwhelming, Stacey and I feel we have been very, very blessed. 1. Our new baby, Olivia is healthy and growing cuter every day. 2. We’ve moved into our new house… and the final touches are coming to a close. 3. Last but not least… the ministry is moving forward… and God is showing up in some amazing ways.<br /> <br /><strong>THANK YOU…..</strong><br /> Thank you! We want to say a very big thanks to those who have been praying for us. These past three months have been pretty crazy trying to manage a newborn baby, moving into the house, and dealing with numerous car problems. I won’t go into all the details, but believe me when I say that these sorts of life events take more of a toll on your time and energy in a 2nd/3rd world country than they do in the U.S…..so thank you very much for your prayers. We have felt and experienced a generous measure of God’s grace affording us patience and strength in this season of life. <br /><br /><strong>THE BLESSINGS</strong><br />In addition, we have been blessed in other ways as well. I’ll just do some bullet points of blessings to keep the letter brief. There’s so much to say.<br /><br /> In the last letter, I mentioned some specific needs we had for things like a photocopier, pastor’s library software, and finances for transportation and fees to a Church Planting conference this October. Within days of sending the letter… all of these needs were met. We thank God, and we thank you for your generosity to our ministry.<br /> Sometimes I joke with Stacey that Costa Rica is like the Land of the Misfits Toys (from Rudolf the Red-Nosed Reindeer). But instead of being a land of broken toys…it is a land of broken and rejected people. Again and again, we encounter people in Tamarindo and who have been left feeling broken and abandoned… people who are seeking love, hope, and new direction in life. The harvest is plentiful…..and God affirms to us daily that we are in the right place. <br /> We have also been blessed by the presence of new people in our congregation. In addition to having the fellowship of our missionary friends Darwin and Kristi, two new missionary couples have moved into our area. Phil, Rebecca, Noah, and Mir who are missionaries with Calvary Chapel. We thank God for them as we have found mutual encouragement and friendship … and we look forward to growing in these relationships as we minister to the surrounding community.<br /> On June 12-14, we had our first “Outreach Event” in Tamarindo! Christ the King Church, from Bellingham, Washington, came to Tamarindo… and members of our congregation partnered with them in hosting Tamarindo’s first ever Bible School for kids. It was a three day event of crafts, songs, and gospel proclamation. Each day the event grew from 50, to 70, to over 100 kids on the last day. Praise God, as seeds were planted in these kids hearts, and many parents were reminded that God deeply loves them and their children. And a special thanks again to Pastor Mark and to Kristi Akin for their organization and facilitation of the event.<br /> During the last week of July, Tamarindo Ministries sponsored two students who couldn’t afford to go to Le Cumbre Christian camp. We are grateful hear how they were encouraged they were in their faith, and we pray for their continued spiritual growth.<br /><br /><strong>Two Requests</strong><br />In closing, I leave you with a couple of requests. The first is for your continued prayers. We need your covering in prayer… for God’s protection of our marriage and the ministry. We also appreciate your prayers for wisdom in how to best minister to the people in our congregation, and how to reach the people our community. Second…. I’ve made this request before, but I’m asking again that you would consider supporting our ministry financially. Our situation is as follows… Several months ago Stacey and I were blessed with income from the sale of our condo. We have felt led to use a portion of this money to fund our own a salary as well as to meet the ministry expenses for Tamarindo Ministries for one year. So, between now and March of next year, it is our goal is to raise $50,000 through one time gifts and financial commitments. This amount would be enough to meet the needs for our salary and for ministry expenses during the 2007-2008 year. We are asking that you please prayerfully consider being part of this team. If you are able to, please see our website (www.tamarindochurch.com) or call us personally for more information on how to send your support.<br />As Stacey and I were falling asleep last night, I was sharing with her some of my occasional fears and doubts about our call to be ministering here Tamarindo. In response, she lovingly encouraged my by saying, “Babe… you have to remember. I’ve been here for years, praying that there would be some sort of church or ministry in Tamarindo. None of this was here a year ago. Now we have a church, a pastor, and Christian friends here…... God is doing amazing things.” (Thank you Lord…. for my wife.)<br /> Thank you again for your prayers and encouragement. Also, <em>please note our prayer requests and new ministry contact information </em>below.<br /><br />Grace and Peace to you,<br /><br />Lyle, Stacey, Olivia<br />tamarindochurch@aol.com<br />(011) 506-653-1751<br /><br />Grace and Peace to you in Christ, <br />Lyle and Stacey<br /><br /><strong>Prayer Requests-</strong><br />• For wisdom in how to best reach non-Christians in Tamarindo and the surrounding community, and for God’s blessing in our efforts to do so.<br />• For our missionary friends, the Darwin, Kristi and family. For grace and strength as they are enduring a difficult season in life.<br />• For members of our congregation, as we strive to live lives that honor God in our homes and in this community. We want to be a witness for Christ of his love, righteousness, and grace.<br />• For our financial goals to be reached for the coming year.<br />• For Stacey’s outreach to local women with infants/toddlers. They meet once a week in our home to share recipes, form new friendships, and cook meals together.<br /><br /><strong>WISH LIST</strong><br />-2 Speakers for our sound system- $400<br />-Paint and paint materials for renovations of THE VENUE, <br /> our outreach coffeehouse. $150<br />-Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-1146862937666568642006-05-05T13:54:00.000-07:002006-05-05T14:02:17.670-07:00Dear Friends,<br /> I hope this letter finds you all doing well. Life here is good. Slowly but surely, I’m getting more and more settled in to a new life here in Costa Rica. I was recently at supermarket up in Nicaragua, and a woman that I met there during a visit four months ago said…. “Te recuerdo. Tu espanol es mejor que antes.” Meaning… “I remember you. Your Spanish is better than before.” I couldn’t help but feel a little proud of myself. This is important to me because we are sensing that God is leading us to have a church that is bilingual, and my goal is to be able to preach sermons in Spanish by this time next year. It’s an ambitious goal… but the need in our area definitely makes it one worth striving for. <br /><br /><strong>The Family</strong><br />As for Stacey and I, we are about six weeks away from the birth of our baby girl (whoohoo!) which is exciting. Stacey’s pregnancy has been more pleasant than either of us could ever have expected, and we are grateful for that. We’re thinking that she will be named Olivia Grace. <br />Other news on the home front is that our new house, which has been under construction for the past five months, will be done in the next few weeks. This means that it will be built in time for Olivia, and we will have a home to start our new family in. We are thankful to God for this. Lastly, on May 5th Stacey will be going on a Women’s retreat with International Baptist Church in San Jose. We pray that she and all of the women there will be spiritually refreshed blessed throughout that weekend.<br /><br /><strong>Ministry Stuff</strong><br />The worship service (which is now known as The Well) and the bible study have been coming along slowly but surely. Here are some highlights on how we have seen God moving in and through Tamarindo Ministries. <br /> Word is getting out through our advertisements and word of mouth about Tamarindo Ministries. We have new visitors almost weekly, to at The Well and, and we’ve also added a couple of new folks to our Bible Study on Tuesday nights. <br /> God is bringing more “laborers for the harvest”/partners in ministry to the area. People from Christian Surfers, Calvary Chapel, and YWAM.<br /> I have recently been asked to write monthly articles for a regional bilingual newspaper, the Tamarindo News. We think this is a great opportunity to reach people in the community in a creative way. The first article I’ve written, coming out this week, is on the significance of observing the Sabbath. <br /> We have found an affordable location to use as a place for ministry. We’ve felt led to continue renting the house that we’ve been living in for the past four months as office space, a place for bible studies, worship, and outreach events….and possibly as a future space for a Christian Coffee shop. <br /><br />We are thank to God for answering our prayers and blessing our efforts in these ways. <br /><br /><strong>Ministry of Reconciliation</strong><br />In closing, I’d like to share verse from scripture that has been ministering to me lately as we’ve been planting the ministry here in Tamarindo. It is from 2 Corinthians 5:18-19 where Paul writes…<br /><br />“All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.” - <br /><br />Tamarindo is a beautiful place to visit and be a tourist, but in this country, Tamarindo is known by many as the “Sodom and Gomorrah” of our region. I didn’t see this so much when I first came here, but the longer I live here, the more stories I hear of people who are desperately seeking refuge and hope in things that only leave them lost and empty. Our area sees a prevalence of alcoholism, drug addiction, divorce, and shameless lifestyles. The good thing about this is that it confirms that we are right where we need to be. We are on the front lines bringing hope to a community of people who are without God, and who are lost, and who need to be reconciled to God. We are here as ambassadors of Christ offering this “the message of reconciliation”. <br />Please pray for us; that God would breathe his life and truth into the Tamarindo area through our ministry, and that He would protect and strengthen us as we share the message God’s love. Thank you for your friendship and support.<br /><br />Sincerely,<br /><br />Lyle and Stacey Watson<br /><br /><br />P.S. Please note specific prayer requests, and our “wish list” of needs located below. <br /><br /><strong>Prayer Requests: </strong> <br /> For Stacey and Olivia Grace- for a safe delivery<br /><br /> For Spiritual protection over Stacey, Olivia and Lyle.<br /><br /> For the continued forming of a community of faith in Tamarindo<br /><br /> Wisdom and discernment in how to minister most effectively to the people of Tamarindo.<br /><br /> For those involved in Tamarindo Ministries: for wisdom and courage in using their gifts in service to God In and through the church.<br /><br /><br /><strong>Wish List-</strong> Logos Series X Pastor's Library (QB) Software ($250)<br /> Church Management Software ($300)<br /> Help with admission and flight cost to attend the Acts 29 Church-Planting Conference in Albany NY. this August.<br />($1000)Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-1140042635572623662006-02-15T14:28:00.000-08:002006-02-15T14:30:35.586-08:00Three Months Later In TamarindoHello again from Costa Rica,<br /> I know it’s been a while since we’ve been in touch… and we apologize for that. Life has been unusually busy over the past couple of months. Within the last two months we have…. 1. moved from San Jose to our condo in Tamarindo, 2. moved out of our condo and into a rental house, 3. took a ten-day trip to the U.S. to visit our families in Tennessee and Florida for Christmas, and 4. about a three weeks ago I took another 12 day trip back to the U.S. for my ordination exams at Princeton Seminary. This busyness has been trying at times because, through all of these events, our ultimate longing has been to settle into our new life and ministry together here in Tamarindo. Fortunately, as of my return from Princeton a week ago, we are now able to settle in. <br /> The last time I wrote was in November when I shared some of our plans for starting a bible study and a praise service. This was a bold venture in that there has never been a Christian Ministry in Tamarindo before, and because Stacey and I are literally the only people we know from our town of 4,000 who attend a local Church. <br />When we began this ministry, a theme that kept recurring in my mind was the idea that “God witnesses to his existence and love most powerfully through community… even if that community is a really small one”. This has always been my experience when it comes to evangelism. With that in mind, I decided to go ahead with starting our meetings. In November, it began with basically the four of us. Stacey and I and a missionary couple we know (The Akins) began meeting for Tamarindo’s first ever bible study and praise service. The four of us gathered for bible study on Tuesdays. And on Saturdays evenings, it was the four of us + the 4 Akin kids praising God together in a downtown restaurant called Caracola. Since that time, God has done some neat things. So let me give you some of the highlights on things that have transpired. <br /><br />Snapshots:<br />• On November 26th, 2005, the town of Tamarindo heard it’s first ever service of Christian praise and prayer. <br />• Our Tuesday night bible study and prayer meeting has been meeting consistently, and has grown from 4 to 7 committed people. <br />• A Christian woman (named Nina) from the U.S. has moved to Tamarindo with a commitment to help us develop the ministry here. <br />• Last week we had 39 people in attendance at our praise meeting downtown… and that’s not including passers-by who watched for a while from the entrance.<br />• We have met and talked with several people from the surrounding area who also have a heart for ministering in Tamarindo. They represent ministries such as YWAM, Christian Surfers, Banyon Ministries, and a adventure missions ministry called Going the Distance. Some have begun frequenting our praise meetings, and we are hopeful about partnering with them as witnesses to Christ in Tamarindo.<br />• A local paper “Tamarindo News” has published an article introducing our ministry to the community. <br />• We will be meeting with a two pastors next week from Christ the King Church in Bellingham, WA.. We will be discussing the possibility of receiving significant support from them for Tamarindo Ministries. Please keep us in your prayers.<br />• Last but not least…..for those of you who didn’t know, Stacey and I are expecting a baby daughter due in early June. =)<br /><br />Beyond this, there are many other stories to tell of how God has been moving through Tamarindo Ministries. Thank you for your faithfulness in prayer for us. Tamarindo has been blessed. Please drop us an e-mail if you have any questions or thoughts. <br /><br />Grace and Peace to you in Christ,<br />Lyle and Stacey<br /><br />Prayer Requests-<br />• Praise to God for His provision and for the fruit He is bearing through our ministry in Tamarindo.<br />• Prayer that God would continue to raise up laborers for the harvest here. <br />• That Holy Spirit would draw people in our community who are skeptical of Church, who have been hurt by the church, who mock the church… that they would come to trusting faith in Him.<br />• That Christ would glorify Himself through Tamarindo Ministries.Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-14667037.post-1126630797289880062005-10-26T07:34:00.000-07:002013-05-25T08:51:09.748-07:00Introducing.... Tamarindo Ministries<strong>Temporary Life in San Jose</strong><br />
Stacey and I were engaged on August 1st in Costa Rica, and since our engagement, life has a whirlwind of an journey. Among other things, the past couple of months have included -engagement parties -a trip to the US to “meet the parents” -planning our wedding in one month -going on our honeymoon - and beginning Seminary Classes in San Jose. By the grace of God, we have managed to keep our heads on straight in the midst it all. And for the both of us, one of the best parts has been the pleasure of getting to know and spend time with each other’s family and friends.<br />
We’ve been in San Jose for about six weeks now, and we have been studying Theological Ethics at Universidad Biblica Latinoamericana. This is part of the Parish Pulpit Fellowship I received upon graduating from Princeton Seminary. During our studies, we have met people from all over Central and South America and have learned a lot from just listening to the variety of perspectives represented. I (Lyle) have also been taking this time to study Natural Theology and the revelation of God through creation. My hope is to find points of contact between Christianity and the thought of other religions concerning the connection between God and Nature. I’ve been interested in this topic for many years now, and I’ve been very thankful to have this opportunity. <br />
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<strong>Ministry in Tamarindo</strong><br />
In addition to all of these things, something else has come up in our lives that we want to share with you. Stacey and I have both felt called to start a Christian ministry in our hometown of Tamarindo, Costa Rica. Tamarindo has never had a church or an outreach ministry because, until only recently, it has existed a quiet, rustic town with very few permanent inhabitants. But in the past few years, there has been considerable boom in tourism in Costa Rica, and this has caused Tamarindo’s growth to explode. It seems that every week there is a new businesses or family that has moved to the town. In the three months that I’ve been here, I’ve seen two new strip malls open with about 25 storefronts, and another comparable strip mall is due to open soon. Mind you, this is in a very small town with only about 10-12 blocks of a Main Street. With this growth in tourism, the town has subsequently seen a rise in the presence of…. Illegal drugs, prostitution, and crime. Add to this the mindset of self-preservation and rivalry that comes with competing businesses, and this gives you a bit a picture of what exists beneath the surface of Tamarindo’s tourism and charm. <br />
Stacey and I are both burdened when we think that, in the midst of all of these elements, there is no ministry to witness to the gospel in these people’s lives. With this in mind, in mid-November Stacy and I will be pioneering ministry in Tamarindo. We will start by initiating a local bible study. Our goal is to draw people together to form a local community of fellowship and spiritual growth. From here, our vision extends even further. In the next few months we will open a center for arts/coffeehouse that will be used as a place of outreach to the community. And ultimately, God willing, God will open the doors for us to establish Tamarindo’s first local church. This is the sort of fruit that we hope to see grow over the next few years. <br />
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<strong>Building A Support Team</strong><br />
At this time, we are asking people to join us in our ministry effort by supporting us through prayer and/or finances. The eventual goal is that our ministry will be financially self-supporting, but as we are in the beginning stages, we need help. If you’d like to know more about the ministry, or if you’d like to know more about how you can support us, go to tamarindoministries.blogspot.com. Once on this site, click on the link entitled “Tamarindo Ministries Website”. This will take you to our website where it should be fairly easy to navigate for more information. If you have any questions or comments, contact us at tamarindoministries@hotmail.com. <br />
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Thank you all for your friendship and care for us. We hope and pray that all is well with you. And be sure to contact us if you ever make it down this way.<br />
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Grace and Peace to you,<br />
Lyle and Stacey<br />
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<a href="http://www.hotelplayanegrasurf.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: white;">www.hotelplayanegrasurf.com</span></a>Lyle Watsonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06693943103108952378noreply@blogger.com