The following is a report from our Hungarian teammates who are currently doing their Christmas puppet ministry in public schools in the Northeastern region of Hungary:



Above: Hungarian teammate Miki.

Tuesday Puppet Outreach:

Our first destination today was a care center in Hatvan that ministers to those who are mentally handicapped. There were about 15 between the ages of 20 and 30 who attended. They were very entertained by the African ostrich puppet who always enquires, "What is snow, I've never seen it." They also responded to various parts of the show when the puppets asked questions.




Above: As a token of the care center's gratitude, one of the girls presented Janka with candy and a beautiful picture of a snowman.



Above: 120 children were waiting at our second destination of Lesznai middle school in Hatvan.

There are about 50 kids from Lesznai school that already attend a Bible study that Janka holds. These kids yearn for affection. This is a special school for kids who suffer from behavioral problems, some physically handicapped and some mentally handicapped. The older kids gladly helped us unpack. Before we started, I noticed a group of older kids who came into the gym causing problems. It was clear to me that they didn't believe in God. I was quick to say, "We brought these songs and this puppet show as a gift, and even if you don't believe in God, please respect others who want to pay attention and who want to sing songs about God." They were quite and payed attention, especially when we spoke about God's love, and how He is ready to forgive and help those in need. It made us giggle as poor Csaba in the middle of the puppet show had both hands raised holding puppets was struck with a terrible sneezing fit. In the end, the teachers were very thankful for the show. The students from my Bible class were sad as they said goodbye since we wouldn't be meeting again until next year.

Wednesday Puppet Outreach:

We met early in the morning at 6:45 today for prayer just before leaving. I was impressed by Hebrews 2:11-18 where Jesus is said to be the "merciful and faithful high priest" and where it is said, "I will be confident in him."

They are always happy to see us in the village of Egyházasdengeleg. The school is actually for Slovakian children who now reside in Hungary. The staff and the headmaster (who is also the mayor) invited us for snacks afterward. One of the teachers began a long conversation about the differences between Baptists and Catholics. After some time we were able to direct her away from focusing on religious affiliations and rather ask if she was a follower of Jesus Christ. Please pray that these teachers come to know the living Christ.

After Egyházasdengeleg, twenty kindergarteners received us with joy in Szarvasgede. Even as we set up the puppet stage, the kids blurted out, "oooo!" It was like they were watching fireworks. They gladly joined in as we sang and were full of laughter at the funny parts of the show. With the help of their teachers, the kids gave us small Christmas trees as gifts. We were told that they remembered last year's song from the puppet show also.







Above: The free magazine we distribute after every puppet show that contains games, articles for family and more information about a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.

In the afternoon, we performed it on Zagyvaszántó in the cultural center. It was a bit difficult to get these kids involved, but we were thankful for the 14 kids and 8 adults that came to watch the show. They asked if next year we would be able to begin the show later so that more would be able to attend from preschool and elementary school. One older man who attended said that he was so happy to see such a show in his town offered us five bucks. Of course we didn't take it.

We are kind of worn out because in the midst of this ministry, we are also helping with preparations for a three day musical to be held in Petôfibánya. This Friday, Saturday and Sunday we will present "An Underground Christmas" in the local community center. Because of this presentation this weekend, we will stop puppets until Tuesday.

Please continue to pray for the Christmas musical that will be held this weekend, and also for those serving in the puppet ministry.