June, 2026
Dear Brethren in Christ,
“But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry. For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day; and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.”
2 Timothy 4:5-8
I have been laid up and not able to work at the Trinitarian Bible Society office since the end of February. My son, Stephen, takes care of all the work. I have not been able to work or write much due to my health issues. My heart has not been pumping enough blood to my arms and legs. I have had much time to rest. I do not know what more the Lord has for me here on earth, but I continue pushing forward knowing that “my times are in thy hand…” Psalm 31:15
I know how the apostle Paul was feeling when he wrote “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.” I am looking forward with great joy to when the Lord will put a crown of righteousness on me and all of you who love his glorious appearing.
Since I don´t believe that I have the strength to keep working, I must retire. So, as of July 1, 2026, I will officially be retired after 73 years of service, having been appointed as a single missionary under the IBPFM in 1953. I would like to thank our Great God for giving me the privilege to serve him for so many years by proclaiming and defending the precious gospel of grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. I have seen and been through many good things and my Lord has always been faithful in them all. I also would like to give all of you who have been so faithful in both prayer and financial support, a very special thank you for your labor of love for the Kingdom of our God and the ministry He has entrusted to the Ricker family. May our Lord richly bless you for your sacrifice.
The ministry of the TBS bookstore of Guatemala continues operating, and now as a corporation, it will continue to run independently. It needs monthly financial support, for its expenses are many. The churches are well and continue marching forward towards the Kingdom of Heaven, even in their trials. We pray they remain faithful and vigilant to the end.
“The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: The Lord make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace.”
Numbers 6:24-26
Yours in Christ and for Biblical Missions,
Hal Ricker