Have you ever tried salted coffee? Last week, our friend Roberto did. It was during our weekly church dinner, which is usually pasta and dessert. After the cake was passed around I, Amanda, grabbed the coffee, sugar, and little spoons. I smiled and greeted people as I poured rich espresso into their tiny paper cups. I had already poured about 10 cups when I heard a commotion behind me. Sandra was laughing loudly. She patted me on the back as she embraced me, and after catching her breath, let me know that I had been serving the coffee with salt, instead of sugar. Poor Roberto had swallowed a big gulp then he spat it out. It was not the positive impact that I wanted.

Jesus said “You are the salt of the earth,” because we should positively impact the world. This is our heart for mission here in Italy. Even as we focus on learning the Italian language, we can see God at work. He is building a community that strives to share the hope the of Jesus. People are welcomed into the church every week and the gift of hospitality is shared. We are thankful that Christ is present and active even through our weaknesses!

We are so thankful for your prayer and support. Please continue to pray…

• for our ongoing language learning
• for our residence permits to be processed quickly and successfully
• for the hope of Jesus to be shared with people who don’t know him in Italy
• for our family in the midst of transition