From: Malcolm B. GregorySent: Sunday, January 13, 2008 3:45 PMSubject: Update - BoliviaHello, friends! Guess you have wondered what has happened to us! Fortunately, things quieted down for the holidays, although political and social tension remain. If a few weeks, Carnaval, the equivalent of Mardi Gras, will begin. It is the biggest fiesta in Bolivia, so we think maybe things will remain calm until that is over. Mean while, we can continue to work as normal.The first week of January we held youth camp with 46 campers representing 5 churches. The theme was "Walking with God", and we were encouraged that a number of young people made a new commitment for their spiritual lives. Despite a lot of rain, we had a great time with wonderful teaching and fun filled games and activities. Tomorrow we begin VBS and expect around 175 active kids who will be studying "Abraham, the Friend of God ". The first of the year finds us extremely busy since the Bolivian schools and universities are out for summer vacation. Throw in Christmas activities and we are really crazy!The leftist government and the pro-democracy governors finally came to an agreement to meet for dialog. The meeting was peaceful, although conflicting issue are yet to be discussed at another meeting. We are waiting to see the reaction to those issues which will determine the direction the country will go. The pro-democracy states still view the government with distrust. We are thankful things are normal and our nice mountain town is peaceful again. Thanks so much for praying!We would have you remember Jan since she is having problems with her knees. The right one is exceptionally painful, so we will be seeing a doctor after VBS tomorrow. An American friend loaned her a knee brace which made it possible for her to go to church today and to attend VBS tomorrow. You know, at our age it is pure maintenance, so pray for us!Thanks again for remembering us. May God bless you and give you a blessed new year!The GregorysBolivia, SA