Christmas was wonderful. Several churches had special programs on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day encouraging their members to invite friends. The Gospel was presented many times in simple and profound ways. Pray that believers will be faithful and continue to share with their friends and neighbors.

December 1 and 2 are holidays here in the UAE. December 1st is Commemoration Day when the country remembers soldiers and civil servants who have died in service. It just became a national holiday in 2015. December 2nd is National Day. There will be events, celebrations and fireworks. Many residents will take advantage to travel or head to a resort with the 2 days off falling at the beginning of the weekend.

The weather has been cooling down and there is a sense of relief across the country. Flowers are being planted and soon will be blooming. Weekends will find families at parks and the beach enjoying the cooler temperatures. Seasonal venues like Global Village and Miracle Gardens have re-opened. Restaurants are serving dinner outside. It is a wonderful time to connect with friends and neighbors and share the Great News!

Many residents are celebrating in the UAE this week as the mask requirement has been scrapped in most public places after 2 and a half years. One school even held a special “ceremony” ending in masks being thrown into the air - graduation style. Masks will still be required in hospitals, public transport, and places of worship. Discipleship classes and small groups are back in full swing back in churches.

The Suhail star was seen in the early hours of August 24th by astronomers in the UAE marking the end of the sweltering summer heat. Residents were very happy as temperatures hit 122F/50C several days this summer. The Suhail star is seen only during the winter months in the Arabian Peninsula. It will take weeks for the temperature to be considered nice, but hope is on the horizon.

While spending the evening at a local park, Mary* and her children began interacting with an Emirati family. Eventually, Mary* sat on the family’s blanket, drank tea, and chatted with a young Emirati mother while they children played together. At the end of the young mother invited Mary* and her entire family to visit their home the following week.