Mission Mexicana Office party

Today, we had our Annual Christmas lunch... this year, at Tony Roma's. We arrived at 2:00 (that's the time we told everyone), but no one else showed up until around 2:45... normal for most Mexicans! We had 19 of us there together celebrating and enjoying some good ribs and BBQ Chicken. Those invited were lawyers, insurance folks, accountants, office secretaries, and guests. Since several had cancelled, we invited the Collins to go with us. We had a nice time of eating, then of exchanging gifts.. sorta the "white elephant" way, but no bad gifts!!

Rob and Tina with Marlene and Juan Carlos (lawyers)

Sori, one of Rob's secretaries, opening her "white elephant" gift

Sori and Erandi, 2 of Rob's secretaries (Erandi's the newest one)

Toni, another office secretary, and her husband, Miguel

Celebrating Christmas with the Collins

Last night, some of our good missionary friends, invited us to go to Hard Rock Cafe- Mexico City, with them. They wanted to treat us for our Christmas gift, so we gladly went! Thankfully, the boys didn't have too much homework, so they were able to enjoy the night, as well. It was a neat experience.. yes, the music was loud, but we could actually talk over it! The boys wanted a few souvenirs.. Carson bought himself a Hard Rock sweatshirt (which he badly needed), and we bought a fun gift for one of their teachers. Thank you, Winston and Cheryl, for such a wonderful night!

Cultural event with the Reyes

Sunday night, the Reyes family invited us to go with them to a "feria", which is-- a fair.. yes, like a county fair, the Tennessee State fair (on a much smaller scale). We met them at their house, then walked about 1/2 mile to "La Feria de San Andres". This is a yearly fair that comes, so they wanted us to be a part of it. Cole was a bit hesitant to get on the ride that take you upside down (who put these rides together, anyway???). All the "kids" did the bumper cars, and I got on the "himalaya-type" ride with Carson.. That was the LONGEST ride I've ever been on...my stomach can't take things as well as it used to.. ha!! We stood in the rain most of the time watching the guys ride rides. When we weren't riding or watching, we were tasting fresh breads. Yummy! As we were leaving, Carson decided he wanted a grilled hamburger, so we had to wait on that to be cooked.. with hot sauce and all! Oh, I forgot one of the best parts. Miguel wanted us to play some games, so he bought us a cup of rings that you throw to go over bottle tops... a ring toss sort of game... Anyway, I gave it several tries, knowing full well that I don't win at games that require any skill... Well, would you believe that I got one!! --- Yep! I won a big Scooby Doo dog! AMAZING!! I plan to give it away, but it was fun "flaunting" my win for a while! They got a big kick out of it!! We walked back to the Reyes' house and had some hot "Atol"... a drink made with milk, corn starch and fruit, for flavor.. I like it.. the guys?? Well.... I think they would have preferred hot chocolate! We had a GREAT time with this wonderful family!
(for some reason, my pics won't download for me to send, so I'll try later....)

Our December Praises and Prayer Requests Newsletter

Dear faithful friends and family,

'Tis the season..... to be thankful and to celebrate the birth of our wonderful Savior! At this time of year, we are reminded of how blessed we are to have such a wonderful home church family, family, and special friends from all over the world, who pray for us and hold us up as we serve the Lord in Mexico City. We could never sufficiently express our deep gratitude for your loving support over the past 7 1/2 years of our time away from home. THANK YOU! Thank you for loving on us through emails, phone calls, cards and letters, and through your financial support.

At this time of year, we are so very thankful for those of you who give to the Lottie Moon Christmas offering, and to the Cooperative Program in our Southern Baptist Churches. As of October 31st, 2006, there are 5,193 missionaries serving through the IMB. Because of your gifts, we are able to continue to serve. Your gifts provide so many things that are necessary for us to be able to live and work... our vehicles, our homes, our general living expenses, teaching/Bible supplies, and so much more. The Lottie Moon Christmas Offering goal for 2006 (US wide) is $150 million. Your financial gifts through the LMCO and Cooperative program DO make a difference. Within our Middle America Caribbean region where we serve, there are 257 unreached people groups; 114 of these live in Mexico. For us, the most important part of this goal is that we are able to reach many who have never heard of Jesus before. We have an urgent message to share! I wish you could see the faces of those who have come to know the Lord as a result of your past gifts. One day, we will be gathered around HIS throne with all believers-- "After this, I looked and there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and in front of the Lamb..." Revelation 7:9 As you consider this Biblical promise and prophecy, consider how you can be a part of spreading the gospel "'till millions know".

Our Praises
** Many of you have prayed for our house in the states to rent. As of this week, we now have renters!! We would like to thank Fran Kirkland, a special lady and friend from Judson, for recommending our house to friends at Lifeway. God has provided, once again! We praise HIM for perfect timing! We are grateful to many of our family, and for our friends at Judson who have helped with some maintenance at our house, and to Rob's Dad for his hard work in getting many things accomplished, and for standing in the gap in our absence. We are thankful for provisions from Forest Hills Baptist Church in some major house repairs! God has provided through so many people. HE IS GOOD!!
** Rob now has a new front office secretary, for which many of you have prayed. We are thankful for Irandi and what she'll add to the ministry of Mision Mexicana.
** Tina had a wonderful week in Guadalajara, helping with the Homeschooling Conference. What a blessing to be around those who are working in some remote places and teaching their own children at home. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve the Lord in a different setting, in a different ministry.
** Safe travel for Rob during his week in Honduras. He was able to get a good bit of work done, and had the wonderful privilege of being with some of our dearest friends in Tegucigalpa. Personal needs were met during this week, and we are grateful for God's hand in everything!
** Provisions for MCCA-- teaching positions are currently covered and we thank GOD for answering this need.
** Cole and Carson continue to do well in school. Their Christmas holiday break begins on December 15th!
** God's provisions of good friends here in Mexico City. We have the privilege to know so many wonderful, godly people who serve alongside us through the school and in many other areas.
** Safety and an "uneventful" day on this Inauguration Day of our new Mexico President. Pray for peace, and for our president's leadership in this country.
** Our special, loving families at home!! We are thankful for good health for our family members and for ourselves!

Our Prayer Requests
** That the Lottie Moon Christmas Offering goal would be reached this 2006 so that many will come to know the Lord through this offering.
** We are having our Saturday night Bible Study at our house this week. We have invited Miguel's family members, and some others who need to know Christ in a personal way. We are serving them a typical American meal. We'll also be celebrating Irma's birthday. May they all feel the love of the Lord as we study God's Word together, and as we experience Koinonia. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to serve them because they've been so faithful to serve us every week. Continue to pray for the salvation of Miguel and Oscar, sons of Miguel. We have come to love this family so much as they have become our family in Mexico City.
** Safe travel for many of our missionary family who will be traveling home during this Christmas season, as well as for our family, as we travel home!
** Spiritual growth of our family members both here and at home. We are so very grateful for our Christian heritage, and we pray that each of us will be faithful to bear the name of Jesus.
** Pray that our lives (yours and ours) will reflect the love of Jesus during this Christmas season. May this be much more than a "holiday". May we truly celebrate the ONE who gave His life so that we could live.
** Salvation of the 98% lost souls in this city. God is at work. Pray for the faithfulness of Mexican Christians, as well as missionaries, both IMB and those from other evangelical organizations. We still do not have the results of the Billy Graham MI ESPERANZA campaign. We will share those after we receive the statistics. We have heard good things from one of our large, local Mexican churches. We did not see any salvations in Miguel's home during the 3 nights, but we do know that seeds were planted!

We have the wonderful privilege of going home this Christmas 2006. This will be only our 2nd Christmas home during our almost 8 years on the field. We will be at home in Nashville, from December 14th to January 4th, 2007. We will spend most of this short time with our families in Nashville, with very little travel. We will be staying at Judson's Missionary Residence. THANK YOU, JUDSON, for providing a place for us to stay!! The missionary residence address is: 717 Brindley Drive, Nashville, TN 37220. The phone number is: 615-833-5712. We would love to hear from you while we are at home. Our regular mailing address in the states is: 6113 Pinehurst Drive, Nashville, TN 37215. This is Rob's parents' address. Come see us and let us hear from you!!

May each of you experience the love of Christ during this season. May others see Christ through each of us.. and, as a dear missionary friend often says,-- may we be the "expression of Christ" to all who encounter us.

Until 2007 or.. until HE comes,

Rob and Tina Torbert
Cole and Carson
IMB Missionaries serving in Mexico City

10 Ways to celebrate Christ's Birthday

One of my favorite people sent me the following Christmas message. I want to share it with those of you who read our blog because it's worth thinking about! What do WE do to touch others during the holiday season? Do our lives count for Christ? That's what we are supposed to be about. Thanks, Denise, for sending this to me! See you soon, my friend! Tina


10 Ways to celebrate Christ's Birthday
A letter from God to His children:
Dear Children,
It has come to my attention that many of you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season. Maybe you've forgotten that I wasn't actually born during this time of the year and that it was some of your predecessors who decided to celebrate My birthday on what was actually a time of pagan festival. Although, I do appreciate being remembered anytime. How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My birth just, GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER. Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santa and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town.
Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can & may remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching explaining who I am in relation to you & what each of our tasks was. If you have forgot that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8.
If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my wish list. Choose something from it.
1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time.
2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them.
3. Instead of writing George complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up. It will be nice hearing from you again.
4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth, and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them.
5. Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her.
6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile it could make the difference. Also, you might consider supporting the local Hot-Line: they talk with people like that every day.
7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with their families.
8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary, especially one who takes My love & Good News to those who have never heard My name. You may already know someone like that.
9. Here's a good one. There are individuals & whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them (and I suspect you don't) buy some food & a few gifts & give them to the Marines, the Salvation Army or some other charity that believes in Me & they will make the delivery for you.
10. Finally if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine. Do not pass judgment on your neighbors. You do not walk in their shoes. You are responsible only for your actions. Be warm, tolerant and kind where you can.
P.S. Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me & do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above & get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and remember, I LOVE YOU.

Thanksgiving weekend

Hey all! We've had a really nice Thanksgiving weekend! Thursday night, we played games at some of our favorite friends' house after eating turkey with our mission family for lunch. On Friday, I took a friend to the hospital for her post-operation check-up, then we (the guys, myself and Kathryn, one of our two adopted daughters) went to see Denzel Washington's new movie, Dejavu. We had a good time.. watching the movie and eating caramel corn..... Carson and Rob finished it off! Today, I took Kathryn, Cole and our friend, Irmita, to Ciudadela, the artisan market downtown. Kathryn had never been, so I wanted to take her to buy some Christmas gifts. I bought a few myself!! We ate some quesadillas and some other Mexican food, then shopped some more.. we had a great time looking around! On the way, we saw some "sights"... there was a protest downtown of some campesinos.. a NUDE protest (a fairly common occurance!!)... undies only!! You'll see a picture of it.. I chose to take it of the men because the women looked REALLY naked and I missed them (whew!!!!!). Tonight, we went to Miguel's for our Bible Study together. We studied "The prodigal son" and had good discussion! Irma fed us a wonderful meal when we finished our study! Also, she sells scarves, gloves, hats, etc... at the market 3 days a week. I asked if I could see her products... we enjoyed buying some of her "wares" since it's so cold here right now.... lots of nice Christmas gifts for friends!!

Game night with good friends on Thanksgiving night!

Cole, Irmita, and Kathryn at Ciudadela

Irmita, Kathryn, and Tina... enjoying lunch at Ciudadela

Mexico City's "believe it or not" protest downtown.. yes, it happens frequently!!

Happy Thanksgiving 2006

Happy Thanksgiving, family and friends!

We have had a nice Thanksgiving day--- missing being with our families in Nashville, but enjoying our mission family and friends here in Mexico City. About 35 of us got together to celebrate Thanksgiving at the Sloan's home. It was a perfect day to eat outside-- enough sun to keep the cold down!! We all took 2 dishes to share.. with 2 of our missionaries providing the turkey and ham. I took my standard dish-- corn pudding, along with Mississippi Mud Cake! It was all eaten with not much left behind. I am adding some pictures from our Thanksgiving day with our mission family-- Enjoy!

Tina and Cheryl Collins-

Rob talkin' fish n' football

Cole with Paul and EunJee

good friends at MCCA

Cole and Carson

Celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary

NOVEMBER 22, 2006.....20 years ago today, Rob and I were getting married and were...... younger and not as wise...."poor", but in love..... happy and anxious about the future.... without children, but wanting them for our future.... ready to start a life together....and..... we never had any idea we'd be spending our 20th anniversary as foreign missionaries ..... WE WERE IN LOVE... and still are!!!

To celebrate our 20 years together, we decided to find a Japanese restaurant, like Kobe's in Nashville... After much internet surfing, Rob found several places, then one of them was confirmed by our friends, the Sassers. We ended up at Suntory's on Reforma downtown... It was DELICIOUS!! Yes, we "paid the price" but it was well-worth it.

The chef at work.... and the food up close and personal.... see the shrimp heads?? I tried to capture them in this pic....

FAITHFULNESS

Okay... it's Thanksgiving time... and around the holidays I get a bit more sentimental than at other times of the year-- probably because we are far away from our families and close friends. At this time of year, we are reminded of the faithfulness of our families and friends at home.. those who pray for us regularly, and those who call us to let us know they are close at heart. I would like to share something on faithfulness from my daily calendar....

How blessed are the lives of those who have a faithful friend, faithful parents, a faithful wife or husband, a faithful co-worker, or a faithful brother or sister in Christ. The faithful can be depended upon and their word can be trusted. The blessing of faithfulness is "being there" at the time of need..."standing there" at the time of uncertainty..."remaining there" at the time of adversity. It is being constant when things are changing.... firm when things are lax... true when things are dishonest... steady when things are shaking. Through faithfulness, words are never idle, trust is never lost, and loyalty is never forsaken.

Today is our 20th wedding anniversary. I am so very thankful for Rob and the love he always shows me. He has been faithful, and, for that, I am very thankful. I love you, Rob!!

We are counting down the days until we go home for Christmas. This will be our 2nd time home during our almost 8 years on the mission field, so we are more than ready. I think we are 22 days away... Rob has the countdown on his cell phone but it's counting down days, hours, and minutes.... It's beginning to FEEL a LOT like Christmas.. Brrrrrrrrrrrrr~

26 days and counting...

Yes! We are 26 days away from going home for Christmas! We are all 4 more than ready to get on that plane and head home for 3 weeks of vacation with our families and friends. Today, I am listening to Christmas music from home... 94 fm The Fish, is playing Christmas music all day long and I am lovin' it! Cole got me hooked up to that! He's always finding fun things on the internet! I've been baking cookies this morning to take to Bible Study and to Barb's house. Barb Carter, MCCA's director and our friend, has invited us over to "trim" her Christmas tree, so the boys and I are going over there later on to help, then we'll go to our Saturday night Bible Study with the Reyes family.

Rob has been in Honduras all week, since last Sunday, and he'll be coming home tomorrow! yeah! We've missed him a lot this week! I am sorta jealous today.. Rob's taking some of our precious friends, Francis and Adoni and their girls, to Pizza Hut, then, tonight, he's taking Oscar and Daniela Carcamo, some of our other dear friends, to our favorite Tegus restaurant, Palacio Real. We really love our friends and family in Honduras! They always make us feel so loved!

We've stayed busy this week.... the boys turned in their final drafts of their Research papers, Orthodontist appointment, ladies b-day celebration of November b-days, English Bible Study, Praise team practice, movie-going, Student council-sponsored Christmas movie at the school, Discipleship, and more..... Last night, Cole, Kathryn, and I watched our first Christmas movie for 2006---- Christmas with the Kranks, which was fun.. even though Kathryn slept through it.. hard week! ha!!

A few pics from the week's events...Monday night B-day celebration at Chili's with missionary ladies.. celebrating Janell and Cheryl!

Carson at work; Cole on the phone with Mimi.. talking about Christmas, Christopher and more....

Judith, Norma, Janell, Me, Marisol and Yelena (not pictured--Sarah and Maria)- My Thursday Bible Study table group

Off to Waldo's... our Mexican dollar store!!

Mi Esperanza update

Well, the Mi Esperanza event is over.... yet, for some, it's only the beginning of a new way of life. We had 3 successful nights of Mi Esperanza in the home of Miguel Reyes and family. On Thursday night, there were 8 people who had been invited plus 6 "regulars". Most of these were family members who haven't yet felt comfortable coming to our Saturday night Bible Study. Rob said they were very attentive and didn't rush off like we expected. Miguel gave his testimony at the end of the program, then they had some good discussion. We wanted to make it as non-threatening as possible so they'd be more open to coming to our studies. On Friday night, 6 of the same 8 showed up.. then there were 9 more "regulars". I gave my testimony, then Sori (Rob's secretary) shared, as well. On Saturday night, we had 4 guests, then our family, Miguel's family, and Kathryn. We watched the movie (1 1/2 hours), and talked about it when it was over. We had no voiced decisions shared, but we told Miguel and Irma that it was the work of the Holy Spirit to change lives! Miguel's sister asked me for a Bible, so we bought her one of her own. She didn't have any idea where to start with her new Bible. I suggested that she read the book of JOHN first. Pray for her heart to be open as she reads! This was a WONDERFUL outreach event for Miguel and his family, and a great chance for them to share Christ with their families. We have no idea of the results in all of Mexico, but will share them as we hear. Thanks for your prayers during these days!!

Kathryn (our teacher friend), and other "jovenes"/youth at the Mi Esperanza movie in Miguel's home

Week in Guadalajara

I have just returned from spending a short week in Guadalajara, Mexico at the MAC Region Homeschool Conference. I was called in at the last minute to "fill the shoes" of our dear friends, the Chafins, who were unable to go. I helped with communications/details with the hotel during the meeting, and with testing 1st graders in Achievement tests. I was also able to help out in the MK classes while parents were in workshops. I really enjoyed the week... being in a different place, doing a different type of work, and being around missionary friends all over the MAC Region. I got to help "judge" the Children and Youth Bible Drills (something I have missed doing for years!) They also had a showcase in Thursday night, in which the MKs shared their talents and some science projects/experiments.

It was a fulfilling week for me, although I REALLY missed my 3 guys. It looks as though they survived the week w/o me.. clothes are clean, dishes are put away (thanks to the Poulettes for feeding them several nights!!), and homework got done!! The weekend will be quite busy because Rob leaves on Sunday morning for a week of travel in Honduras.

We'll be heading out shortly to attend the 2nd night of MI ESPERANZA at Miguel's house. Rob said there were 7 new folks there last night... Pray for God's Spirit to move and that they will come to realize their need for Jesus in their hearts and lives. More to come on that...... stay tuned tomorrow!!Hotel Primavera where we had the Conference

Two of the sweet MKs with whom I had the privilege (and lots of laughs) to work/test

Enjoying the culture

Today, we took our missionary friends, Winston and Cheryl Collins, with us to introduce them to "hamburgesas al carbon" (a hamburger stand). They have the BEST hamburgers cooked on an open fire. Miguel and his family took us there after the TaekWondo tournament last Saturday, and we LOVED it! The hamburgers are "melt-in-your-mouth" and cheap-- less than $2.00 each and with your choice of toppings. When we went with Miguel, we fed 12 people (drinks included) for less than $30.00. Today's lunch was about $5.00 for both of us to eat! Dad, you'd LOVE these burgs! Anyone who comes to see us can look forward to this cultural event. Rob made fun of me for taking pictures, but this was truly a cultural event! Afterwards, the Collins and myself walked through the Tiangis (tents with vendors selling their wares). Rob had to get back to the office to do an interview, but we decided to take advantage of a beautiful day and ANOTHER cultural occasion. We took a taxi home (which was ANOTHER cultural experience!)

The Collins with Rob and myself

Hamburguesas al carbon (hamburgers on the grill)

Tiangis/Open Market.. where you can find just about anything.. from batteries, to makeup, to fruits and veggies, to clothes....... "cheaper by the dozen".

Halloween, the Day of the Dead, and beyond

Friendly "trick-or-treaters" to our house



Halloween.... that word brings back happy, childhood memories for me. I remember gathering with friends and family in our neighborhood, and going door to door "TRICK OR TREAT"-- we chanted, and just hoped for some good treats. For years and years, we followed this tradition, and never felt any evil in what we were doing. I remember sitting in the middle of our living room floor, seeing who got the best treats, and trying to trade off a bag of popcorn for a candy bar.... Any of you remember those times?
Things are quite different around Mexico. For 3 consecutive days, people are celebrating the "Dia de los Muertos" or "Day of the Dead". Stores are decorated, homes are decorated inside and out, and all types of things are being sold in the stores to celebrate this well-known "ritual".
A little bit of history from a Mexican website.... "More than 500 years ago, when the Spanish Conquistadors landed in what is now Mexico, they encountered natives practicing a ritual that seemed to mock death. It was a ritual the indigenous people had been practicing at least 3,000 years... It is celebrated differently depending on where you go. In the larger cities, families build altars in their houses and outside, dedicating them to the dead. They surround these altars with flowers, food and pictures of the deceased. They light candles and place them near the altars."

Last night, we had "trick or treaters", young and old. There were at least 30 who came and shouted "Queremos Halloween" or "We want Halloween (candy, to be exact). For the next 2 nights, we'll have more trick or treaters... it's a 3-day festivity! I wasn't prepared last night with candy, so I was scrounging around the pantry to find things to give out. I think I'll go out today to buy more candy so I'll be prepared. I am also going to pass out the Gospel of John and just PRAY that someone will read it and their life be changed. Pray for that, okay? Thanks!



A part of the "Dia de los Muertos" decoration.

Sawdust art made to celebrate the day.

Older "trick-or-treaters"

Hope we have lots of "visitors" tonight.. we went to Wal-Mart and loaded up!

Fall is in the air.. or is it smog?

Hey friends and family! Sorry it's taken me so long to add to our blog page. I have had trouble logging in (I am sure it was an error on my part), but I think I get it now.

All is well in the Torbert household these days. We've been super busy with work, ministry and with school. The boys had Friday, October 27th, off from school due to Parent/teacher Conferences. Rob and I went to the school to talk with the high school teachers, and we also received grades for the boys' first quarter. We are quite pleased with most of their grades-- all A's and B's. Now, they are working through their first research paper of the 2006 school year. Their rough drafts are due on Monday, November 6th, so we ask that you remember them during this next week of work.

We celebrated Rob's 49th b-day at the office and with friends. The ladies in the office fixed one of Rob's favorite Mexican dishes, "Pastel de Tamal" (Tamale casserole.. more or less). He was a "happy camper" with that wonderful surprise!

Last Sunday, October 22nd, Tina participated in an AVON Walk against Breast Cancer. Five of our ladies from this side of town headed downtown with 9,000 other women and girls to help raise support and awareness. I have never seen so much pink in all my life (not one of my favorite colors, but...). We walked 5 km. in downtown Mexico City. There was also a 10 km run. It was a fun time for all.... and for a great cause. One of my friends (former IMB missionary), Sandra Sasser, is a breast cancer survivor, so she led a large group of ladies from Capital City Baptist Church, where I go to Bible Study on Thursdays. God blessed the day with beautiful weather!
Here are some of the ladies from our mission and from the school. LOVE THAT PINK!

Amy, Julie, Kathryn, Tina and Cheryl

This is Kathryn, the 5-6th grade teacher at MCCA, Amy, a friend who lives and works in Puebla with university students, and me... finishing the 5 km walk. We had a LOT of fun talking and taking pictures along the way (no reason to rush things.. ha!). Amy and Kathryn are like daughters to me (I am old enough to be their Mommas!! ha!). In fact, when I am with them, Mexicans often ask me if they are my daughters... boy, do I feel old!!

This past Saturday, October 28th, our family was invited to attend a TaekWondo Tournament with the Reyes family. Oscar and Miguel are both in advanced levels of TaekWondo, and were able to compete against some of the best. We spent the entire day watching the competitions.. from 5-6 year olds, to adults around our age. (at times, Rob wanted to get up there and join them, but I reminded him of his age.. ha!!). Oscar won 2nd place in "battle", and 1st place in "arms". Miguel won 1st place against black belts. It was an exciting day! ABOVE: Oscar in action. BELOW: Miguel and his instructor/friend after the

competition.

Praises and Prayer Requests from MX City- The 4 Torbs

Dear faithful friends and prayer warriors,

Buenos tardes to one and all from Mexico City... one of the largest, most highly populated cities in the world! It has been a while since we've sent an update and we want to let you know what's going on in our lives.

This morning, Sunday, October 1st, we attended First Baptist Church, Satelite, one of the largest Baptist churches in the city (and probably, the country). They have 4 Sunday services, and each one is packed, yet... there are STILL over 98% in this city who are lost without Christ. I was (again) reminded of the lostness of this huge city even in the midst of so many believers! I want to share what impacted me this morning. We were able to be a part of the baptism service, which occurs every 2 months. There were over 15 people who passed through the baptismal waters... at least 1/3 of those were men! As we observed this ordinance, tears of joy flooded my eyes, as those grown men (and the others) audibly professed their faith in Christ. With each baptism, came more joy... from oldest to youngest! How easy was it for those 15+ people to confess Christ as their Savior and Lord? Many are now being rejected by family and friends, yet they have the assurance of eternal life. Many are now serving the Lord like never before, and they, in return, are leading others to know Christ. I was urged to think about those with whom I need to share Christ... Are WE, as believers, regularly seeking out those who need Christ? Once again, I pray that we will be motivated to share that which we've been given... eternal salvation and hope!! At the end of this baptism, the pastor called for those in the congregation who want to be baptized to publicly confess Jesus, as Lord, in December... at least 30 people walked forward as prayer was lead on their behalf.. many will change their minds due to family rejection, yet most of those will follow the Lord in this ordinance. Pray for those lives to be forever changed!

PRAISES

* Cole and Carson are doing very well in school. We are grateful for their teachers. Continue to pray that they'll be disciplined in their studies throughout this year.
* We've just finished the first 13-week discipleship study with Irma and Irmita Reyes. They are growing in the Lord daily, and we are grateful.
* Rob continues to meet with Miguel Reyes on a weekly basis in discipleship.
* Our house church network had its first baptism several weeks ago. We saw 2 young people follow the Lord in believer's baptism in a swimming pool. There were about 30 people present to witness this
happy occasion. We had a taco feast afterwards!
* Rob has returned from his travels to Panama. We thank the Lord for safe travel and good meetings!
* Our Saturday night Bible Study continues to grow. We had 14 people in attendance 3 weeks ago. On the average, we are having 10-12 people in our study. Miguel and his family desire for their other
family members to come to know the Lord.
* Susana, a Catholic lady who has been attending our previous house church, has prayed to receive Jesus as her Savior and Lord. She is grateful that God revealed Himself to her through HIS Word of
Truth. She desires to follow the Lord in believer's baptism soon.
* Perry and Susan Davis are here this week from Atlanta, GA. Every year, Perry gives a week of his time/vacation to help Rob with computer issues in the mission office. Perry and Susan are true
servants of the Lord, and we are thankful for their friendships and support in quite ways. THANKS, Perry and Susan!

PRAYER REQUESTS

* Tina's sister, Cindy Hardin, is going through some medical tests this week. Pray for her health to be completely restored, and for peace of mind.
* Miguel and his family members are dealing with rejection and ridicule from their family members who are not believers. They have shut them out of their lives (unless they need something), and won't
come to the Bible Study. Pray that Miguel and family will be persistent in their invitations, as well as in being the "light" to their lost family members. We attended a special dinner for them on
Thursday night, celebrating 21 years of marriage. They were prepared for a house full of family and friends, but no one showed but Rob and myself, and his two workers. Pray for Miguel to be
encouraged and to continue growing in his faith, in spite of family problems. Pray that Miguel and his saved family members would desire to follow the Lord in believer's baptism. They attended
the baptism we had in September, but weren't ready to be baptized themselves. Pray for the work of the Holy Spirit in their personal lives. Pray for our sensitivity to their reservations.
* Rob's work as Strategy Support Coordinator continues to be a huge job, especially because his office partner is still on stateside, but will return mid-November. Pray for Rob to have wisdom in all the
decisions he has to make on a daily basis (relating to over 60 family units in Mexico and in Middle America). Pray that Rob would be encouraged, and that his faith would be strengthened.
* MCCA (Mexico City Christian Academy) is in need of another ELEMENTARY teacher for the school year 2006-2007. If you are interested (or know someone who might be interested), please contact
Tina- robtorbert@prodigy.net.mx or call 615-866-4108, our Nashville-based phone. You can view the school's website at: http://www.mcca-mexico.org/ This is a HUGE prayer request at this time!
* Tina is serving as mentor to two new teachers at MCCA on Mondays and Tuesdays. Pray for wisdom and discernment. Also, pray for Tina as she serves on the MCCA School Board, that decisions would
always be made to honor the Lord.
* Rob will be traveling to Honduras as soon as his passport is renewed and returned. Pray for wisdom as he is in the process of selling properties that are no longer needed in all parts of Honduras.
* We still own a home in the states. Pray for us as we make wise decisions concerning repairs, finances, etc. It is difficult to deal with some issues being away from home. We are so grateful to Rob's
Dad, who takes care of things for us on that end. Pray for him to have wisdom, as well.
* Unite with us in prayer for a special and unique event that will take place in November. This is an opportunity to reach the entire nation with the gospel message, a united effort of the Billy Graham
Evangelistic Association and all the participating evangelical churches of Mexico. Pray for Mexican Christians to unite in prayer for “Mi Esperanza Mexico” (which means “My Hope Mexico”).
This telecast campaign uses the strategy, called “Operation Matthew” based on the Scripture passage in Luke 5:27-32 in which Matthew invites his friends to his house for the sole purpose of
introducing them to Jesus. The evangelistic programs will be televised during the evenings of November 9, 10 and 11. Pray that 20,000 churches become involved in Mi Esperanza Mexico. Pray
that 300,000 homes be used in Operation Matthew. Pray that 1,000,000 new believers result from this project. Pray for many new churches to start, as well.
* As always, pray for us to have a passion to reach the lost of Mexico City. Pray for opportunities to share Christ with those with whom we come in contact. Pray for the Holy Spirit to move as we reach
out to those around us.
* Pray for our spiritual health. Satan attacks all of us in different ways. Pray for protection and discernment in our personal lives. Pray for our children, Cole and Carson, as they continue to grow in
Christ.

Thank you for faithfully praying for our family. Thank you for lifting up our families in the states as we are away from them. Thank you for showing you care in so many ways... phone calls, emails, letters, and financial gifts. Please continue to give through the Cooperative Program in our Baptist Churches. As you know, the Lottie Moon Christmas offering goes 100% to support missionaries all over the world. We thank you for giving!! Pray is a vital part of our standing firm and staying on the mission field. We count on your continued prayers, friends!

With much love and gratitude,


Rob and Tina Torbert
Cole and Carson
IMB Missionaries serving in Mexico City

Saturday night Bible Study- Sept. 9th- our house

Saturday night Bible Study on Independence Day in MX

Welcome

WELCOME to the all-new Four Torbs Blog!!!

Check here often for updates on the Torbert family serving in Mexico! Have a great day, and Dios te bendiga!

Because He Lives,

The 4 Torbs