Robert & Joanna Burdett
Baptist Missions to Forgotten Peoples
December 2020
Much has transpired since our last prayer letter! Throughout the year, the theme seems to be making plans then canceling plans, but through it all God is working! We praise the Lord that the church building was completed and we are now meeting in it. With room to grow for the first time in years, we are excited to see what God is going to do. The first of November we celebrated the ten year anniversary of the church in Maintirano. It was both a blessing and a sobering reminder of how fast the years pass. Last week we had a man in the baptismal class make a profession of faith. This was a major praise as it has been quite a while since we have seen people coming to Christ. Please pray for the remaining students that we are still unsure of their salvation.
We have now restarted all the church programs after the confinement due to Covid. It is a blessing to once again be able to preach/teach and lead the discipleship class. Joanna is teaching a women’s Bible study and Sunday school. The monthly split sessions for men and women as well as youth group have started up too and are going well. Recently, during the ladies’ session, Clarisse, a mom of three, gave a clear testimony of how God had worked in her heart over the past two years leading her to completely surrender her life to Him. She said, “before I looked for joy and love from my earthly father whom I did not know. There was always a void in my heart. Now I have that love and joy from my heavenly Father! I know I need to yield everything to Him. I’ve seen Him make the way straight before me.” The enemy does not like testimonies like this and has already tried to distract Clarisse and her husband from growing in holiness. Please pray for their spiritual protection and growth! This year, we have been burdened to pray more fervently for our supporting churches, especially the pastors. As you navigate leading God’s people during this time, know that we are praying for you and appreciate all you do! Thank you for partnering with us in the work here in Madagascar!