The brethren were inspired by Mr. Kilough's sermon, and they appreciated his comments about their wholehearted efforts to forward the mission of the Church in preaching the gospel and being prepared as the people of God, despite the fact that they are scattered and small in number.

Before and after church services, all the brethren had the opportunity to shake hands and speak with the Kiloughs. After services there was a get-together for a meal. The next day, Sunday, was the last day of their visit with us—a good time to show them the old place (the basement of my house) where the editorial work was carried out for the last 10 years. They were also shown the new open office for the Church and its editorial work, which is allowing us to offer a professional image to the general public. This has proven to be timely, giving the fact that we are now beginning to be known throughout Italy.

As a matter of fact, our Church has been recently listed among the main Christian churches in Italy in the Encyclopedia of Religions in Italy (Enciclopedia delle Religioni in Italia), by Massimo Introvigne, director of CESNUR (Study Center for the New Religions). This publication has brought several new subscribers to our magazine.

Also, because of such widespread publicity, a nationwide newspaper (Libero) sent one of its journalists to ask about our Church and our work in Italy. He asked a number of questions, but then published only some answers, in a partial way, but faithfully enough not to discredit us as a "sect" or "cult." (Please see a translation of the published interview below.) The publication of this interview has resulted in further positive nationwide publicity. More and more people are requesting our literature.

In the last 10 years we have had an almost full editorial production, thanks to the offerings and tithes from the local brethren and coworkers, as well as thanks to the financial help from the home office, for which we are deeply grateful.

Our main weakness is our continuous need to finance new advertising campaigns in order to acquire new subscribers every year to replace those who do not renew their subscription. Recently we have been carrying out an experiment by advertising our magazine and some of our booklets via the Internet, through Google. This is not yet as popular in Italy as it is in the United States or in the rest of Europe, but it is bringing some new subscribers—an average of five every day! However, even Internet ad campaigns have their costs.

Regardless of how scattered and small we are in Italy, we feel it is our responsibility to proclaim the true gospel in our beloved country.

We do hope more brethren will attend the Feast in Italy this year, as prices are really economical and the site has been appreciated very much by all the brethren.

The members of the Italian National Council and all the brethren in Italy pray for the progress of the Church in all nations and send their love to all of you. UN