Dear Church,
Greetings from Astoria Oregon, where the sun made a few appearances over the past couple weeks. We are still waiting on city officials to see if we can obtain permits to allow us to meet in the facility that has been offered to us at a very good rate, however I want to focus this letter on one of the greatest accomplishments, rewards, and joys that Stacy and I have ever experienced in our more than 20 years in the gospel ministry. Our son Gabriel married Leah Bond on Saturday, March 28th. We are over-the-moon excited, thrilled, elated, over-joyed, enraptured, and thankful for Gabriel and Leah. We thank God for his goodness!
Gabriel is 24 years old. He has been a fantastic son to raise and began serving the Lord early in life. He made good choices as a young man like vowing to abstain from alcohol, cursing, tobacco and drug use, and decided to keep himself pure for marriage. Leah is 21 years old and gave her heart to her father at an early age. She committed to wait for his approval before giving her heart to any man. In fact, at the marriage altar, Bro. Nathan Bond told of the time when he gave a special heart locket with a key to Leah. He encouraged her to allow him to keep the key until she found the man that God had for her. This was about five years ago, and at that time, she handed him the key. On the wedding day and before witnesses, Bro. Nathan recounted the story and then surrendered Leah, along with the ceremonial key to her heart to Gabriel. Stacy surprised herself with tears of joy and all those who love Jesus celebrated this special union of man and wife.
Those wishing to send cards and well wishes to the newlyweds may send them to:
Gabriel and Leah Byers, 725 King Salmon Street, Hammond, OR 97121.
John said “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.” Stacy and I are so blessed that our new daughter is born again and loves Jesus. When we hear Leah call us “Mom and Dad” it means more to us than anyone could ever know or understand. Leah is a wonderful daughter-in-love to us and we know she will be a loving and caring wife to Gabriel. Our boys are encouraged and happy to have a godly sister and we are all looking forward to serving the Lord together. Thank you for praying for our family and ministry!