July-August 2025 News Update

Ongoing Ministry News – A Journey Filled with Joy, Memories, and Ministry

On Tuesday, August 1, our good friend Mark Mattix met us in Santa Cruz and drove us the five hours to Camiri. As we traveled, I couldn’t help but think back to my very first trip to Bolivia in June of 1983. It had been pouring rain, the road was nearly all dirt (MUD!), and what took us just hours this time took three days back then! Camiri holds a special place in our hearts—it’s where Linda and I were married 40 years ago. Many here still remember that day, and one by one, people came up to us with smiling faces, saying, “Do you remember me?” These sweet reunions have warmed our hearts more than words can express.

From August 1–3, Linda had the joy of sharing God’s Word with the ladies of Camiri. The conferences were held at the Bible Camp across the river, with about 80 women gathering from all over the region. Their attentiveness, thoughtful questions, and long discussions after the messages were so encouraging. Linda came away deeply touched by their hunger to learn and their openness to God’s Word.

On Sunday, I was invited to speak at the Iglesia de Camiri in their “new” building, right beside the Christian school. It was another day of happy reunions and heartfelt conversations with friends we hadn’t seen in years. Surrounded by so much love, I couldn’t help but feel completely at home.  Then we returned to Santa Cruz for more visiting.

August 14, we boarded a bus and made our way back again to Camiri. From August 18–29, I’ll be teaching at the Bible School on the farm, while Linda has been asked to give more sessions on family life and raising children. On Sunday, August 24, I’ll be speaking on the theme of family at the Aposento Alto church.

Would you pray with us? Pray that the Lord would fill our words with His wisdom and use us to bring encouragement, truth, and blessing to everyone He puts in our path during these days.  Colossians 1:26-28 describes our prayers as we prepare to encourage many in their faith here.... "26 the mystery that has been kept hidden for ages and generations, but is now disclosed to the Lord’s people. 27 To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. 28 He is the one we proclaim, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone fully mature in Christ. Colossians 1:26-28

With hearts full of gratitude and joy,
Leon & Linda Crawford


Small Group Sessions


Womens Conference, Main Meeting


Seeing good friends after many years!  Tino & Nelda



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