May Howell Updates

Dear Friends, 

I had a conversation last week that reminded me of the absolute privilege and sometimes heartbreak it is to have relationships with our friends. We were talking about a recent loss they suffered through suicide. This was a very personal conversation that included the struggles they have had in their own life. Aspects of their story were like nothing I have ever heard before. Their openness, honesty, vulnerability, and willingness to share this traumatic part of their soul was humbling. 

One of the most heartbreaking aspects of this conversation centred around a question I asked. “What does your current support system look like?” They answered, “Non-existent, I am my own support system.” I smiled and said, “Do you know that you always have me in your corner?” They smiled back and said they did know that. I was thinking about the verse in Ecclesiastes 4. “Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed. If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble.” 

Please continue to pray for our friends. Pray that they will have a transformational encounter with God almighty. Pray that we will have the words to speak and ears to listen. Pray for Ireland to become a nation that hungers and thirsts for righteousness. Thank you all for your continued love and care for us.

A couple of personal updates:

David has started working towards his MA in Transformational Leadership through the Irish Bible Institute and St. John’s University.

Tricia has been working with the Teaching Council of Ireland to get her teaching license here renewed.

Both David and Tricia have been dealing with a few health issues.

On a positive note, we have had sunshine for a few days recently. That makes everything better. 

Grace and Peace,

David and Tricia