More than 50 people gathered January 15–20, 2018, on the International ALERT Academy campus in Big Sandy for Family Week. We are so grateful for all that the Lord did during the week as families came together to fellowship with each other, help with some service projects on campus, and hear powerful messages.

Each morning began with one of the ATI office staff members leading the group in a Wisdom Search. The dynamic object lessons and illustrations made several verses from Scripture much more readily understandable and applicable. Following the morning meeting, families worked on a variety of projects, including deep cleaning the Administration building, laboring with a demolition project, building picnic tables, assisting in the sewing room, sorting linens, clearing the grounds by picking up sticks and twigs, and assembling copies of John and Romans to be sent overseas. During the afternoon free time, the families enjoyed more fellowship time together.

The theme for Family Week was “Developing Ministry Skills.” Mr. Keith Neds shared in three evening sessions that encouraged families to keep their priorities right, gave practical ways families can minister, and reminded them from where their power to minister comes. Mrs. Shelley Hendry captivated the children with a dramatic presentation of Gladys Aylward. She also shared practical ministry ideas for families to consider using in their outreach to others.

A pleasant and unexpected surprise greeted families on Tuesday morning— a rare snowfall blanketed the Big Sandy campus! The pure, white snow reminded many about how Christ’s shed blood has washed us whiter than snow, and the hymn “Whiter Than Snow” was sung, of course, at that particular morning meeting! The children enjoyed using make-shift sleds to glide down the hills on campus; the youngsters also worked heartily in dotting the landscape with small snowmen.

IBLP is grateful for the diligent work of the families who participated in Family Week. Their hard work, cheerful attitudes, and hearts for the Lord encouraged the staff with whom they interacted. Praise the Lord for a fun and fruitful time during Family Week!