The Matas in Bethlehem



It Takes A Village

This is an old school concept you may be familiar with. Many people would associate the statement with raising children. The basic premise; for children to thrive, a good healthy support system is imperative. You know: immediate & extended family, good neighbors & friends, a solid faith community, quality schools



The Origin of Christian Missionaries

The Origin of Christian Missionaries“God already had a plan of how He wanted this “Good News” shared with the world...”One Village NewsletterErik D Scott



Eyes Wide Open!

A year ago, John and I received an invitation that changed the trajectory of our lives. Everything has shifted. What a year! When we were asked to consider moving to Bethlehem, to serve at the Jerusalem School (JSB) we spent a lot of time praying before making the decision to



Full Circle: Faith, Patience & Divine Timing

In July, 2026, John and I were invited to visit Trinity Church in Sharpsburg, GA. It was wonderful connecting with the community there. Going to visit churches, sharing about our journey to Bethlehem to serve at Jerusalem School Bethlehem (JSB), inviting communities to partner with us, encouraging others to go



Stepping Into the Call: The Matas' Journey to Bethlehem

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Complacent Faith: The Crisis of Spiritual Ineffectiveness in the Church.

Moving Beyond Comfort and Complacency into Genuine Faith Imagine looking in the mirror and seeing perfect health, while your doctor sees a fatal diagnosis. That was the Laodicean church. Surrounded by wealth, they claimed to need nothing—yet Jesus found their spiritual condition sickening. Jesus delivers a Stern but Loving



Music Education. A change in perspective.

What is Music Education? Is it forming a Choir? Is it establishing an Instrumental Program? Band? Orchestra? What do you think of when you hear that we are pioneering a Music Program in Bethlehem? As a Music Educator for over 32 years, focusing much of my energy on teaching children



Update: Matas in Bethlehem

Dear Family and Friends, As we continue on the journey of itineration, our hearts are filled with gratitude for the way God is moving. We are incredibly thankful for your support as we continue to share the vision and recruit vital prayer and financial partners. Itineration is a season of



Eagerly Waiting for the Bridegroom: The Extra Oil for Your Lamp.

The biblical meaning of the Parable of the Ten Bridesmaids (Matthew 25:1-13) is a stern warning to stay spiritually prepared and vigilant for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. He is coming for those who are eagerly waiting for him (Hebrews 9:28). Jesus used first-century Jewish



The Importance of Music, Spiritually.

In a previous post I shared how through the years music has in many ways facilitated my connection with God. Music has been a beautiful gift. So, why music? Why is it such a beautiful gift? Why is this something I want to share with the world? Music not only