What does Jesus want for Christmas?

What will you bring him? After being told that Christmas is Jesus's birthday, Joshua asked recently, “What does Jesus want for Christmas?” That's our challenge, this Christmas, and always, to live in a way which glorifies the King of Kings, the One who was born in a stable so that we could know him. A very Merry Christmas to you all, from our family!!

We’re happy to introduce to you the newest addition to the Kariuki family - Katelyn Waithera was born October 11^th, and is doing wonderfully, we're all thrilled to have a new little baby in the family, and thankful for her safe arrival. Mom and Dad now have their hands full with four little blessings!

Our time here in the States has absolutely flown by – August we spent a lot of time with the Groff family with a weekend at the mountains, brother Tim’s wedding and traveling to see the Wisconsin branch of the family, as well as some very dear friends in Illinois. In September school began, with Josh in Kindergarten and Zachary in preschool. That month Moses took a two week trip to Korea to attend a YWAM workshop and also be recognized for completing his bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies. At the end of September we were in a minor car accident, which while we were very thankful didn’t result in serious injury, slowed us down quite a bit, with Jo spending a night in the hospital and both Jo and Moses being stiff and sore for a while. With October came the arrival of Katelyn, and Moses’s departure for Chad the end of the month – let’s just say October passed by in a blur! J Moses returned to Chad before the rest of the family in order to help with the Biblical Studies Core Course, training missionaries how to study and apply the Bible in their lives and ministry. The rest of the family will be leaving for Chad Nov. 25^th. For those of you who we have not seen during this time in the US (and there are so many of you!) we’re very sorry and hope that our next trip here will allow us time to catch up. In the meantime, we love to hear from you – keep the emails and letters coming. J

Please pray for us:

v We’re so excited to have Corinne, a friend from our church here, traveling with Jo and the children to Chad. Corinne is coming to help with the children during the trip and will be in Chad about 10 days before returning to the US. Please pray for safe travel for us to Chad, and for Corinne as she returns.

v We’d appreciate special prayers for the children as they adjust to traveling and life back in Chad. We’re all excited about getting back to Chad, but the boys do love school here in the US, and will miss their friends, not to mention Grandpa and Grandma and lots of other relatives!

v Pray for the work in Chad as we continue to train up leaders who impact their communities and nation.

v The continuing conflict in the region (Sudan, Central Africa and Chad) weighs heavy on our hearts. Please join us in prayer for peace.

Blessings and Happy Holidays to you!

Moses, Jo, Josh, Zachary, Marianna & Katelyn