Serving & Sharing

We've moved!

2011-07-01T18:31:00.001-03:00

We have a new blog now. You can find it at www.TwoServingAndSharing.blogspot.com. This new blog covers both our ministries and will be updated regularly. Thank you.

Wedding Bells!

2011-06-15T11:23:00.006-03:00

I must say that Jesse and I have been on quite a ride since we returned home from Zambia. I think, the earth is starting to spin a little closer to normal speed now.

The three weeks I spent in Wisconsin went by very quickly. I met all of Jesse's family and there were lots of details to take care of with the wedding and just arriving home from Zambia, such as working on a presentation. On May 15th, we shared at Jesse's home church and then hit the road on the long drive east to Canada.

On the way east, we picked up Jesse's brother and family and all traveled to island. Upon arrival where the ferry docks on the main land side, we found the smaller ferry running because the regular, larger ferry had run aground a couple of days before and was out for repairs. This also meant a lot more traffic for the long weekend was backed up and we didn't make it on the trip we were there to catch. This gave Jesse and his family a fuller island experience. The week before our wedding was filled with preparations as well as showing Jesse's family around. They even went out in Dad's boat to watch him haul a few lobster traps. It was great to have the two families together and we had a great time!

Jesse and I were married on May 28th and the wedding was attended by many friends and family. It was a great day!

We are now gearing up for a busy schedule of home ministries; traveling and sharing with churches (check out the schedule link on the left side). We also have to raise some more funds for our ministry to be able to return to the field (check out the faith promise and donation links on the left side). On June 19, we will be sharing at Central Wesleyan and on June 26th at North Head Wesleyan. We will also be doing the missions moment in the evening service of Family Camp on July 9th, then heading west right away for home ministries training at Global Partners and to Wisconsin to share with some churches in that area.

Please pray:
- for our marriage and all the new adjustments,
- for us as we share about God's work in Zambia,
- for safety as we travel,
- and for God to use us wherever we go!

Please also continue to pray for the work in Zambia.

Changes in Scenery

2011-05-01T22:07:00.012-03:00

Much has happened since the last update. March was busy with visiting medical students and other guests, as well as preparing things for a hand over of my responsibilities to the other missionaries who are now handling the business side of things.

April was a month of scenery changes, so to speak. Early in the month, GP missionaries from 6 different African countries came together in Swaziland for our annual Africa Area Retreat. There were sessions in the mornings and evenings, consisting of updates on Global Partners' policy and what is happening, as well as training and discussions of issues concerning us as missionaries. The afternoons were free for relaxing and recreation and after the evening sessions was fellowship time as a group. It's always a great time to reconnect with our Africa missionary family as well as a chance for rest and renewal before heading back to ministry in our various countries.

Following retreat, Jesse and I travelled back to Zambia for a couple of days to pack and finish up last minute things before heading home. On April 14th, we flew from Zambia for the States. Jesse returned home and I travelled on to Canada to finish up last minute wedding plans. We were both met with snow, which is quite a change in scenery. :)

Last week I came out west to meet Jesse's family and for our pre-marriage counselling. We are also sharing with the Darrow Road Wesleyan Church, WI, on May 15th; just before heading back to Canada for our wedding on May 28th.

Throughout this coming year, I look forward to seeing many familiar faces and be able to introduce Jesse to my team as we visit churches, share about the work in Zambia, and fundraise for our next term on the field. Please check the side links on my blog for sharing schedule updates and faith promise and giving information.

Please pray for us as we start off our home ministries sharing, all the travelling to be done this month and the following months, as well as prepare for our wedding and the beginning of our marriage.

Safe Arrival

2011-04-16T19:10:00.000-03:00

Just another quick note to say that I arrived home safely today (and
Jesse did as well). I'm still waiting on my luggage, but it's on its
way. Thank you so much for your prayers.

Leaving Zambia

2011-04-14T07:23:00.000-03:00

This is just a quick note, now that I have good internet access. The
mission was struck by lightning a few weeks ago and it fried our
computer and modem, leaving us without means of communication. I'm
currently sitting in the Livingstone airport waiting for the first
flight of a long journey back to North America. Please pray for Jesse
and I as we travel back home.

God's Grace

2011-03-10T02:12:00.002-04:00

February was quite busy and flew right by and that leaves one month to go for me here in Zambia. We had a medical student with us for the month. Alicia came for a rotation as part of her resident program for family medicine. She was able to help relieve some of the work of caring for patients for our missionary doctors at the hospital. She also gained much experience with medicine that she wouldn't get in the USA, such as delivering a breech baby (roughly 9 lb.) by candle light. It was a stretching time for her.

One aspect of God that is seen often on the mission field is His grace. Sometimes we don't realize it and other times we are quite aware that it's what keeps us going. This month I have been keenly aware that I can't do anything without God's help and how much His grace enables me to do what I need to do here. I have now added full time cook as another way of serving the volunteers, students, and other visitors who come to serve the people in the area. This has been stretching as I have never cooked for a group before as well as making things even more busy, and sometimes overwhelming, on top of the other responsibilities I have taking care of the mission and as serving the other missionaries. I recognize that I have made it through the last year only by God's grace and help, but February had 28 daily reminders that I cannot make it without Him.

I have been constantly reminded of “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Since arriving in Zambia I have been greatly outside my comfort zone and the cooking for teams is one more step away from it. God has helped me and things have worked out. When God calls, He equips. I am thankful that He never gives up on us!

Please pray that I am able to take care of the teams as well as keep up with my responsibilities these next few weeks.

It's hard to believe it is March! This week we have a team of 4 here to help with the electrical upgrade at the hospital. When this complete, the hospital will have the capacity to run their sterilizer machine and an echocardiogram. However, the electricity supplied here fluctuates frequently in the voltage so it is very hard on equipment and some days is not enough to run things. We pray that someday soon that will even out. We are still trying to figure out how to protect the equipment and still be able to use it.

Following the electrical team we have a group of surgeons coming to volunteer at the hospital. Please pray that the surgeries go well and as many people as possible receive treatment.

We also have two more medical students staying with us, working under the doctors. One of them had their first experience of church, in their life, this past Sunday. It was a special youth Sunday with lots going on. I think she was a bit overwhelmed. Please pray for her and her time here; that she would be drawn to the Lord through this experience. Please also pray that we, as hosts, would have opportunities to speak to her and into her life.

The weeks for our departure from Zambia are quickly counting down and preparations are being made, as well as trying to stay focused on things here. Jesse and I are making bookings for times to share about the work in Zambia and looking for different opportunities throughout the year. We would be delighted to share in either a Sunday or mid-week service, Bible study, small group and/or with your Church Board. If you would like to have us come share about the work in Zambia, we would be happy to! Just let me know.

Thank you so much for your prayers! It is evident that people are praying for us and even more evident that we really need those prayers. You are a vital part of the work here in Zambia!

Here They Come!

2011-01-27T06:32:00.003-04:00

The holiday season has come and gone, the rainy season is well underway, and our "team season" has begun. The last couple of months have been slow as far as teams and used for getting ready for the next wave of visitors. We have been busy doing repairs on the mission, etc. It has also been a good break from hosting and I'm ready to get back into it again.

Starting next week we have medical students coming to work under the doctors and other teams. As well, the surgeons resume their regular visits to offer services the hospital cannot otherwise offer. We will have guests here right up until we leave for missionary retreat in April; following which, Jesse and I leave for North America to prepare for our wedding.

Because of our new status, our budget will increase, so we will take the coming year to visit churches, reporting back to those on our team and visiting new ones, as well as spend some much needed time getting to know each other's families and adjusting to married life before returning to the field. We will attend GP's missionary training institute (MTI) in June 2012 and our goal is to be funded in time to head back to the field as soon as MTI is finished.

We will be visiting churches from the beginning of August 2011 until the end of May 2012. If you would like to have us come share about the work in Zambia, we would be happy to! Just let me know.

Prayer Requests:

- For the hospital as work continues on the new out patients department and the electrical upgrade as well as for the many patients the staff see and care fore every day.
- For the many people traveling to and staying with us; that they would be safe, be able to help the local people, as well as be changed themselves while they are here.
- That I would again have the energy and grace needed for hosting, as well as keep up with the other responsibilities I have.
- For Jesse and I as our time to leave is drawing near. There is lots to do right up until we head out, as well as the many transitions coming soon. We need focus for things left to do here and direction for when we head home.
- For the doctors, who see hundreds of patients each day and are often on call for emergencies.

Spreading Christmas Joy

2011-01-05T03:17:00.007-04:00

The Christmas season has come and gone and it is now 2011. I hope your holidays were Christ-filled with lots of fellowship with family and friends.

Christmas in Zambia is much different from that in North America. In the cities, yes, there is the growing commercialization of the holiday, but in rural places that is not the case. On Christmas day, generally speaking, gifts are not given and people are in one of two places: the bar or church. Each church has their own program for the day which includes a service in the morning, followed by a meal and activities. It is a full day of celebration and fellowship.

On Christmas Eve, however, a gift is given to those not necessarily in the church. It is called candle lighting. There are a few different kind of churches in Zimba. The hospital is divided amongst them and they prepare gifts and a candle light service. In the evening, they meet at the hospital to share the message of Christ's birth, give gifts, and pray for the patients in the wards.

The singing and dancing began before ever entering the wards. Each church proceeded in the direction of their ward where they lit the candles. Inside, the singing continued for a while. Then there was a brief message about the Christmas story and what Christ came to do for us by coming as a baby. People then gathered around each patient to pray; praying at the same time, each person out loud. Near the end, but while people were still praying, someone started a song which people joined in singing as they finished praying. After the last amen and as the singing continued, the pastors passed out the small gifts the churches had prepared for the patients.

Singing and praying could be heard all through the hospital that night, both inside and outside the wards. In the peaceful evening, I'm sure it could be heard for miles. The goal is to share the good news and bring a little joy to those in the hospital during Christmas. We pray that lives have been touched through this gift.

Please pray for the many patients at the hospital; that they will not only find physical healing, but spiritual healing as well.

Also pray for all the missionaries. No matter how long you live somewhere, there is always things to be learning about the language and culture and also new struggles to face. Some days we need all the grace and perseverance we can get to set aside our own culture and way of thinking and work in this "strange land".

Thank you so much to those who have sent packages of used clothing, eye glasses, rolled bandages, and other things. During the candle lighting, the mission was able to give gifts of clothing to the adult patients and toys to the children. Although they were sick, it brought smiles to their faces. The special treats from home brought big smiles to our faces as well. :)

A big thank you also for your constant prayers and giving. We could not function here without either and we thank God for you and your willingness to be part of this team!!

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

The Global Church

2010-12-02T02:51:00.011-04:00

A while back, a friend sent me the following quote from one of her readings. It gives a new perspective on being part of the global church family.

"But there are times when even a whole community can't sing. In the face of the Holocaust, a whole people or least whole communities of that people were silenced. Just as rape silences the individual, so rape of a community silences a people. And then what? The praise of God goes on. The people of God elsewhere sing it in agony and pain with those who can't sing." (The Heart of the Matter by Paul Westermeyer)

Following the tragedy of Mr. Mudenda's murder a few months ago, it was all the people could do to muster a song. The morning service following his burial was the most quiet African service I have ever been in. There was singing, but the luster and energy was missing. Instead it seemed like it was taking everything they had to sing and you could feel their pain in every note. They had suffered a huge loss in the church and community. That day I sang in agony with them. Still being fairly new to the church at the time, and not knowing Mr. Mudenda personally to know the loss first hand, my heart was still deeply touched by those people; by their loss.

Since then there have been many more tragedies around here; many illnesses, accidents and murders. Everyone has been affected somehow. Jesse and I found a body in a ditch while out on one of our morning prayer walks. The man had a motorcycle accident and had been there all night. The atmosphere has been one of silence; people are fearful and wondering what will happen next. But yet, despite the pain, within God's church there is hope; a light in the darkness. "Darkness will not prevail!" is the message it brings. "In Jesus there is healing, there is security, there is life! Praise the Lord!"

When we realize we are part of a greater family, we can't be silenced. "The praise of God goes on." The praises are lifted up from the tongues of other believers. The pain of those silenced is lifted on those praises; supported by the love of others (as when one mourns, we all mourn - Romans 12:15). As children of God we share in each other's pain and praises. And we need not worry, for even if it seemed the whole world was silenced, the rocks themselves would cry out (Luke 19:40). His praise cannot be silenced! His sovereignty commands it. His faithfulness draws it. His love invites it. Let everything that has breath praise the Lord! (Psalm 150:6)

Prayer Requests:
- For the church to continue being a light in Zambia and that us missionaries can continue to help and support them in this.
- That the church in Zambia would know it's part of the global church family, their song is being sung, and be encouraged to keep on in the work of the Kingdom.
- That the darkness/silenced atmosphere here would be pushed out by the presence of God. That people would see the hope in the Message, be touched by God's spirit and turn to Him.
- That the upcoming surgeries will go without complications and many people can be helped. We praise the Lord that this was the case already with the orthopedic surgeon a couple of weeks ago.

Thank you for being a part of the global church!!

Quilting & Making History

2010-11-03T03:34:00.014-03:00

Greetings once again from Zambia! The rains have come again and people are rejoicing and preparing the fields for another year's crop. The dry season has ended and there is hope in the fields and the rain God provides.

At the end of September, we had a very special team arrive. It was made up of parents: my mother, and the parents of another missionary. They came not only to see where their children live and work, but also to help out. Donated sewing supplies were brought to have a quilting class. Representatives of the women's groups from two churches in the bush gathered for five days of quilting; some had experience, others did not. These ladies were taught how to quilt so they could teach the rest of the women at their church.

The ladies were eager to learn. We had a great time quilting; singing and talking as we worked. Each church started a quilt and took them home at the end of each day to work on them. They quickly finished them and asked to make another one. At the end of the five days, the ladies had completed two tied, patch-work quilts; both a single and a double for each church. When they completed their second quilts, the ladies broke out in song and waved the quilts around in celebration of what they had done. Before parting ways, we all shared a meal of nsima (boiled corn meal), chicken, and rape (leafy green) and the ladies presented gifts of peanuts in appreciation for what they had done.

The following Sunday, the ladies showed the church the quilts they had made and announced they were for sale. They also invited all the ladies to join them on Saturday to continue sewing. This is a great chance to get ladies outside the church involved in something, teach valuable skills, and also is a way for income to help people and provide resources for women's events.

As time goes on, I am learning more and more how the little things make a big difference. It has been a month already and people still haven't stopped talking about Jimmy and Prisca's wedding. Why? I later learned that never before, in the history of Zimba, has a white person been in the line-up of a Zambian wedding. And in this wedding there were two!

Prisca and I have done the 5km walk to church for choir practice twice a week since January. We have shared many experiences and she has helped me with the language and culture as well. As her and Jimmy's parents started negotiations and plans for their wedding, she asked if I would be a bride's maid. I accepted and two weeks before the wedding the practices began.
Understand that this is no simple one-foot-in-front-of-the-other march up the isle. African wedding parties dance in and out of the church; for everything they do, such as taking the cake out to be cut and served. We learned four different dance steps. We lined the isle and danced while the bride and groom passed through. It was great to be a part of the celebration of my friend's wedding, to see a Zambian wedding, and also to see how it has opened up people towards us as they see the missionaries getting involved in different aspects of their lives. The invitation was an honour and I am thankful for it!

I thank God for the opportunities He has given me to be involved in the lives of the Tonga people. Please pray for the relationships between Zambians and missionaries; as we live and work together and learn from each other. Cultural and language differences, etc. often lead to misunderstandings on either part as well as there is a constant threat of satanists, who wish to disrupt the unity and work we have together.

I thank God that my mother was able to come and see Zambia and for the practical skills that teams, like this one, share with people. These help people find ways to help themselves and give them a start in that direction. When we help with that need, they are more open to their spiritual need as well.

Thank you very much for your prayers and support!!

One-Year Review

2010-10-10T11:44:00.006-03:00

One year complete! Where does the time go? This year has gone by like a whirl wind. There have been many highs & lows.

In the past 365 days I have hosted guests for 269 of those days; consisting of 87 different people. There were surgeons (eye, orthopedic, reconstructive), medical students (dental, nursing, pre-med, residency), ministry teams (soccer camps, pastor seminars), construction teams, and fellow missionaries. Some come just once, while others have been here many times. Regardless, each individual and team brings a different set of skills that meets a need and goes away with new perspectives on the world. Relationships and partnerships are made, people encouraged, lessons learned, and a bigger view of our creative God is gained.

I am able to help other ministries in Zambia by providing administrative support as business manager. I am also thankful for the opportunity to be part of the people by singing in the choir and helping serve at events.

Thank you very much for being a part of my team and making this possible. I could not have been a part of the ministry in Zambia without your financial and prayer support!

Celebration and Dedication

2010-09-26T09:44:00.006-03:00

A time to celebrate... September has been a month of celebration and dedication with the church.

Earlier this month the Zimba Mission Hospital celebrated it's 50th anniversary. There were government health officials, missionaries (both current and those who have worked at the hospital over the years), hospital staff, people from the community and other invited guests. The Sianankanga choir led the opening procession of VIP's with a song written for the hospital. There were speeches about the history, present and where the hospital is going, entertainment such as traditional instruments played by headmen and skits about what life was like before and after the hospital was built in Zimba (Photo Below: skit about visiting a witch doctor for healing). It was a great time of remembering the past and celebrating the future with laughter and good food.

The following week, the Sianankanga Pilgrim Wesleyan Church held a dedication service for their new building. It was a busy week of preparation and anticipation for this event. Again, many special guests were invited. Our praise team was joined by one from another church. The church was packed! It was a good service with lots of good food afterwards.

The part I enjoyed the most about the dedication was how the ladies had me working with them. About a week before, I was notified I was on the decorating and serving committees. I wasn't sure what exactly this meant, but soon found out when it came down to working. I gathered water (carrying it on my head), mopped and waxed the church floor (on my hands and knees), helped cook nsima (staple of boiled corn meal) and relish (leafy greens), and served the food with and beside the ladies of the church. It was all hard work and my muscles ached the following day, but as we worked together on each job, we talked (they taught me more Tonga) and sang. That day we worked as sisters and I felt a deeper connection with those ladies and pray that God used that time to touch their lives as well. I believe that ministry happens both ways we all are free to teach, to learn, and to truly fellowship with each other!

We praise God that both days went well! We pray that His work at the hospital and in the local church will continue to be and grow strong and bring Him glory and light to the community. We not only celebrated what has been done, but what God has yet to do!

Camping With the Choir

2010-09-04T03:32:00.000-03:00

Language learning is coming along, withs lots of hard work, and being in the choir has helped with that and also opened up different opportunities for getting to know people, as well as different experiences.

One weekend I joined the choir at revival meetings in a village in the bush about 6km from here. I packed a change of clothes and a couple of blankets and headed out with a couple of friends on the long hike to the church. We took our time; singing and chatting as we walked. A couple of hours later we arrived and it was time for the evening service.

Things were running as usual: one hour late with two hours of singing before the message; after which I started dozing so I headed off to bed with a couple other girls from the choir. In a grass enclosure attached to the side of the church, we laid down on a tarp and snuggled in under some blankets. A chill had set in before sunset and we were thankful for protection from the wind. Laying on the hard ground, listening to the service, I watched shooting stars in the crystal clear sky and finally drifted off to sleep.

First a crash, then some screams! I sat straight up from sleep at the comotion going on just beside us in the church. With more screams and noise, people went running out of the church in the caos. People were running around the church yelling for what seemed like a very long time. Then a man in light clothing came in the wind break. He was walking very strangely until he spotted us, ran over and grabbed the back of my neck. He wasn't hurting me, but he wouldn't let go. Pulling and struggling to get his hands off me, I continued to fight him while he spoke something I couldn't understand. Finally, he let go and walked out. At some point during my struggle, those who were with me had run in the church because they were also frightened. Too afraid to leave the shelter, even long enough to enter the church, I sat wrapped in my blanket praying until things, both around me and in the church, calmed down. Reassured by the sound of a few people walking and praying around the church, I laid back down and continued praying, watching the shooting stars again until the service ended around 2 am.

With the events of the night, the hard ground, and being squeezed by two people on either side (5 of us shared one blanket), sleep came on and off through the night. I was so relieved at the sun rise!

I later learned that, during the service at about midnight, 3 known satanists showed up at the back of the church and started the chaos. Benches were broken as people ran after seeing the demons in the church around the 3 new attendees. Once the church leaders regrouped everyone and began to pray, the satanists left and things calmed down. As the service continued, people were delivered from demon possession and gave their lives to Jesus.

For me, that experience was a reality check; that when we do anything to take Satan's territory, he is going to fight back. Satan is very real and that night he tried to disperse our service, which he almost succeeded. If the church hadn't fought back with prayer, people wouldn't have been deliver and redeemed.

I learned a lot about the spiritual battle going on in our world and also about the power of prayer. I thank God for His protection, that He has already overcome the evil one and we are more than conquorers in Christ.

Please continue to pray for the church here in Zambia. They face this kind of opposition often as they work to reach people with the good news of Christ. Pray for power, protection, and that people would continue to hear about and know Jesus.

VIP's

2010-08-05T06:06:00.004-03:00

Things continue to be busy and visitors/teams continue to come. Every visitor that stays at the mission is a VIP, each playing a different role in the ministries here and touching people's lives. In July, we hosted two surgeons and their teams. Dr. Goran, a plastic surgeon, does many procedures to correct clef lips and pallets and contractures caused by scarred tissue from burns. Dr. Lastroni, an orthopedic surgeon, repairs many deformities and injuries. These surgeons work at a hospital in Lusaka and volunteer their services to help the people in the area. They come 2 or 3 times a year to perform surgeries that otherwise could not be offered here and most of the patients do not have the money to travel to Lusaka to have these life changing procedures done.

In just three days, these teams see as many people as possible, the majority of whom are children. The team arrives on Thursday and sees people to evaluate their need. On Friday morning the theatre (OR) is open very early and the surgeons start with the youngest patients first. Surgeries run back to back all day and, if needed, on Saturday morning as well. Depending on the team, they sometimes have 2 theaters operating. We deliver meals to the theatre so the team can fit in as many patients as possible; eating between surgeries and often working long into the night.

We are grateful for their hard work and many people have benefitted from their expertise. It is a pleasure to see the lives that have been changed and to be able to host these teams! We thank God for people who give their time, energy, and resources to help make a difference in people's lives. Thanks for being part of this team!

2010 World Cup

2010-07-12T06:24:00.005-03:00

The soccer world cup: 64 games, 2 weeks, one winner; this time, Spain. Last night was the big game for the cup. People in Zambia, and all over the world, gathered around televisions. The cheering could be heard from all over town as the game went on. The World Cup was the topic of just about every conversation for the past two weeks. "Football" is THE sport in this area.

Now that the world cup is over, we hope to have fairly consistent electricity once more; only going out a couple times a week instead of every day. Load shedding is a common occurence in Zambia. They turn off the power to one area and give it to another because there isn't enough to go around. During the world cup games, it was off for sometime almost everyday. Now life and work can return to normal.

While the world cup was happening just south of us, we had a team here from the Hyde Wesleyan Church, PA. During the mornings they helped with maintenance at the hospital. It's amazing what some paint can do to make a place look better! They also helped put in a fence and made shelves for one of the storage containers. All of these things were needed. We are thankful for the team's willingness to help out wherever was needed.

The team also held a football clinic during the afternoons and one on the weekend. Sixty children (30 in each) were involved and many more joined them for the devotions given half way through each day. They did a great job connecting with the children and using the world cup/soccer to open opportunities to share Jesus with them and the parents that came to watch.

These are just some of the ways that teams help the work here in Zambia. This month and the next, we will have three different groups of surgeons, each with their own specialty, providing life changing surgeries for patients that otherwise would not have access to that treatment; medical students helping fill the gaps at the hospital while getting practical experience for their training; as well as guests coming for the 50th Anniversary Celebration at the hospital.

There are many, many people who come and help in their area of gifting, pray for the missionaries and the work, and give of time and resources so the work can continue. A heart-felt thank you comes to you from Zambia for your part in God's work! Thank you for being a part of my ministry and a piece of the greater work happening in Zambia and around the globe!

The Value of a Life

2010-06-11T05:05:00.001-03:00

What is the value of a life? A few thousand kwacha? An article of clothing? It's hard to understand why a man is beaten to death for the little money he was carrying and the pants he was wearing.

A father of six and husband to one, Mr. Mudenda was found dead in Kalomo, a town just 50km from Zimba, where he had gone to buy sweet potatoes. In reality, he wouldn't have had much money on him, but someone thought it was worth his life. Mr. Mudenda was a pillar in the Sianankanga Pilgrim Wesleyan Church, where I attend, and that loss was evident in the Sunday services following his burial.

After having picked up the body and filled trucks with mourners from the hospital, the procession headed to the funeral house. The hundred, or more, people errupted into wailing upon our arrival. The moans and crying sounded like something straight from a horror film and seemed to reverberate through the homestead out into the surrounding fields. It was almost deafening and like nothing I have ever heard.

People made their way to the grave site, just a short walk from the house, and a solemn silence encircled all present as the family made their way to the grave after being the last to view the body. Immediately the body was laid in the ground and, after a few prayers, some brief words about the deceased and the committal, the men proceeded to prepare cement and covered it with dirt. Beginning with the immediate family, flowers were laid and all was over. Having spent the night before (or more) at the buriel house, there was no more to be done. People returned home, leaving only a remnant to help the family.

This is reality in Zambia. People here deal with death all too often; whether from sickness, accident, or at the hand of another. The wailing of mourners can be heard almost every week at some place around here. Please pray for the Mudenda family and others like them that have needlessly lost a loved one. Pray for the missionaries and the church as we work together to come along side people in those times and spread the hope and love of Christ.

Forgive me if this letter is depressing, but this is also part of life over here. There are times that we celebrate the projects completed by teams, lives saved by the doctors, hearts turning to Jesus, but as in life anywhere, there are some hard times. Thank you for joining me on this journey, in this work, through the highs and the lows.

Bonjour... Jambo... Muli buti... Hello...

2010-05-04T09:27:00.005-03:00

However you put it (French, Swahili, Tonga, etc), it still brings a smile to the face of the person understanding its meaning.

The trip to the Democratic Republic of Congo was interesting. Allow me to sum up the experience:

There were 2704km driven, 12 police checks, 8 churches visited, 7 team members, 6 nights stayed, 6 tolls paid, 4 languages spoken, 4 feasts eaten, 2 "tips" paid and 1 "speeding fine", 1 driver (me), meetings with national church leaders, countless pictures taken, lots of fellowship, and many friends made. All in all the trip was a success!

The Congolese church was excited for our visit and we were just as excited. We were thankful for their company while traveling, honoured with a gift of raw copper a church member had found while digging, humbled by the hospitality of the Congolese church, encouraged by their part in Kingdom work, and in wonder by how we saw God work.

A few of the churches we visited were very rural. We stopped on the side of the road between cities and towns to make a brief visit to a church a little ways away. We were told our purpose for those stops was to encourage the church by showing them that they are part of an international family of believers and that it was not just isolated in the DRC.

During our meetings, the church leaders expressed their need: being with the Wesleyan church for only 15 years, there is a large need for trained pastors, leaders, and lay leaders. Pray that God would raise up people who can help train others for the church in the DRC.

We had many problems with customs officers and police, but God got us through and safely home. On our way back from the farthest point in our journey, we were having a particularly hard time at one police check point. The officer took my license and vehicle papers and walked off. By then we were in the habit of praying while our Congolese team mates talked with the police, but this man refused to let us through. We sat there for close to an hour, while the police officer went on stopping other vehicles, when a mini bus slowed down and a man shouted from the bus to the officer asking why he was bothering us, that we were from the church, and that he should let us go. The bus drove off and the officer returned our papers and we were back on the road. A little ways down the road was a toll and another police check. We paid the toll and proceeded without any trouble from the police. On the other side was that man from the bus, standing on the side of the road waving and smiling at us.

No one knew who he was, but he was definately a blessing from God. From that point on we had a smooth journey with no police stops. We returned home weary, but rejoicing and thanking God for the trip. Thank you for your prayers while we traveled!!

Merci beaucoup! Asanti sana! Twalumba kapati! Thank you very much!

Prayer for the Journey

2010-04-14T07:20:00.006-03:00

On April 21st, Mike & Cindy (missionaries teaching at the Welseyan Bible College here in Zambia), the principle of the Bible College, and I are driving to the Democratic Republic of Congo. The DRC shares the northern board of Zambia and the national church there is reletively young. We will spend a week traveling around the Lubumbashi area; visiting churches and meeting with the national leaders. We pray that our delegation to the DRC will be an encouragement to the national church and have a time of relationship building, as well as brainstorming ways we can partner with the national church to help it to grow stronger.

Please join us in praying for every aspect of this trip.

Say What?

2010-03-30T07:36:00.008-03:00

Ndamujuzya muzina lya Jesu Kristo (I greet you in the name of Jesus),

Language is an interesting thing. It not only communicates ideas, but also the culture of a person; the way of thinking. To communicate an idea or thought in one language may be presented in a completely different way in another. One simple example of this in the tonga language is: the whistle is crying. To say "the whistle is blowing" in tonga just doesn't make sense to the people. The sentence may be grammatically correct, but is still not understood. To learn the heart language of a people is to understand them, their values, and view on the world.

This month I completed first term (4 weeks) of tonga language school. We learned much about the culture as well as the typical vocabulary and grammar. The Kizito Pastoral Centre, where the course was held, is about 15km out in the bush. There were many people around who were willing to help us practice our tonga and correct us, once they finished laughing at our mistakes. The second term (also 4 weeks) begins mid-May and will complete the course. At the completion of the course I will have the building blocks I need to continue learning tonga.

Language learning is a humbling experience. It's like being a child again; using short sentences and the same words over and over again. It means making lots of mistakes; often leading to misunderstandings, being willing to be laughed at and corrected, and putting forth a lot of effort and work (they say there is no tonga without tears). However, it is essential for anyone, spending any time in a different culture, to connect and meet the people where they are. One is never truly accepted until they speak the language of the people.

I am thankful for the opportunity to go to language school and am looking forward to the second term. Please pray for me as I continue to learn the language and understand the people I am here to serve.

Pray for the Zimba Mission Hospital. There are many building projects coming up to help increase the quality of care for the patients. Also for the medical personnelle that face many challenges and see many patients each day.

Also pray for the many teams coming to work on these projects, care for the patients, and do outreach in the communities.

Thank you and God bless!

Ministry & Witness

2010-03-06T13:40:00.001-04:00

The rains have come! It has rained, at least a little, every day for the past 2 weeks. This is an answer to prayer for the people. There hasn't been much rain and the maise (corn) is turning brown. Most everyone plants maise to eat throughout the year, so a bad crop would mean starvation for many people.

The visitors have also come! This month marked the first visitors for 2010. We had two medical students join us this month. They were here for a one-month rotation. We also had two different groups of surgeons. These surgeons come from Lusaka to the hospital 3 or 4 times a year and do specialized surgeries that otherwise could not be done here in Zimba. This is a blessing to the patients, as they often do not have money for transport to go somewhere else for the treatment.

Out of the many visitors scheduled to come to Zimba, not everyone may know the Lord Jesus. Some are only here to help with medical needs at the hospital. As host, I spend a lot of time with our guests and pray that I not only help with the lodging and food needs while they are here, but also that I would be a light and a blessing in their lives as well. This is a major part of my ministry here in Zambia. I am learning to be a better host as time goes on and pray that God would use me in the lives of our visitors, as well as the lives of the Zambians I work with.

We will have visitors coming and going through the end of August. Some will be helping with building projects at the hospital, some are medical students doing rotations, some are volunteer surgeons, some with computer expertise, and some will do evangelism and outreach. They will come in contact and work with many different people. Please pray that work can be done, lessons learned, people ministered to and, most importantly, lives touched with the love of Christ. It's good for projects and programs to be done and by working beside Zambians, relationships are built and that's what opens up opportunities for encouragement, growth, and sharing God's love.

Being a missionary not only means that we sometimes teach, but also that we are always students. I am one week into language school. For a couple more weeks, I will be studying chitonga in the classroom and, once finished, will continue to learn the language and culture as I work with Tongas (one tribe in the southern province of Zambia). Language study is a lot of work, but essential for showing love and respect to the people whose heart it speaks to. Please pray that I will learn the language quickly and not be afraid to put into practice what I learn. This will means many mistakes and opportunities to laugh at myself, but worth it in the end!

Thank you so much for coming on this journey with me and being a part of the work here in Zambia. The work I do would not be possible without your support. You are a valuable part of this team!

2010 Kickoff

2010-02-07T10:05:00.007-04:00

January has kicked off 2010 like a whirlwind. This month has been busy with a variety of things. February marks the beginning of a seven month period of non-stop guests/teams at Zimba Mission, so things have been busy this month with final logistics before people start arriving. There are many things to coordinate such as travel, housing arrangements, meals. I head up a team of Zambian staff that all work very hard to prepare for and host our visitors. They are a big help and it would not be possible to host this many visitors without them!

I also found myself in South Africa for two weeks to learn how to do the business side of missions. I am the business manager in Zambia for Global Partners. This means I look after the finances, bookwork, and distribution of funds to the various projects/ministries in Zambia, such as the Zimba Mission Hospital, the Pilgrim Wesleyan Bible College, as well as to the various missionaries for their ministries. I still have much to learn, but I feel better equipped to serve the various ministries in this capacity. All of this is part of the bigger picture of ministry and helping and serving others.

While in South Africa, I was able to go to Swaziland for the weekend and reconnect with my friends and church there. It was good to be back with the worship team. I have been praying for an opportunity to be involved with music in Zambia. Music is a big aspect of African culture and a way of getting past barriers and connecting with people. Now, I praise God for answering that prayer! This month I joined the choir at a rural church. It's a 10 km (roundtrip) walk to the church and practice is every Friday and Saturday afternoon and we sing every Sunday. The choir has children from 4 or 5 years old up to adults. I was also asked to be a part of "Praise", a group of the older people in the choir, as well as to sing with the praise & worship team. They have been patient with me, but we also laugh at me a lot. Nothing is in English, except a couple songs they know, nor is anything translated besides the sermon during the service, so I usually don't know what's going on. I do my best to catch the dance step, then to make my mouth look like I'm singing with them. I am learning the songs, but never know whether we will sing what we practiced that week or something completely new. Sometimes it's very uncomfortable, but it's worth it. I am getting to know fellow choir members and have to depend on them. It shows that I am there to learn from them and that helps to break the barriers between us. That first Sunday, the old ladies couldn't stop smiling and, following the service, gave me hugs. We don't speak the same language, but that day we spoke volumes to each other.

Thank you very much for your prayers! God is answering them.

Please continue to lift up the relationships between missionaries and Zambians. Misunderstandings, caused by cultural and language difference, are a part of life. Each part needs wisdom and grace to understand the other in order to work well with together.

Pray for the many visitors we will have in the coming months. Pray for the planning, safe travel, and God's anointing on them as they work here in Zambia.

Pray for me as I run the Mission (leading the staff and hosting visitors/teams) and do the necessary business to keep things in Zambia running. The staff and I need to work well as a team to help the visitors have a good experience in Zambia. Also, I need favor in the eyes of those I do business with (eg. immigration officers & the entry of our many guests). Relationships are everything in this culture, and without relationships, it is very hard to do anything.

Pray that people will continue to be ministered to, whether by a missionary, doctor, team member, staff, etc. That is the ultimate reason any of us play our various roles: that people would come to know Jesus!

Humble Makings

2010-01-01T13:44:00.005-04:00

Being a missionary is often a very humbling thing. There are glimpses of what really matters and how we often take things for granted. Earlier this month, I was the representative for the Zimba missionaries at a celebration. Zimba mission had an old truck that wasn't being used and so we decided to give it to the Siachatema rural health clinic to use as an ambulance. They are quite a ways from the main road and had to rely on a vehicle coming from another hospital to pick up patients. This often took hours and sometimes came too late. The celebration was being held for the arrival of the truck.

This was not only a cultural learning experience, where formality and cultural etiquette was observed, but also one of my most humbling experiences. In the presence of the honourable senior chief Siachatema, other headsmen, the district superintendent, and other "big" men, we were thanked immensely for the gift of the truck; that God had heard their cries and answered their prayers through us. Now they could get people to a better clinic in time. As the speeches went on, I got more and more of a glimpse of what a "small act" can do and how it was no small act to them. When it came my turn to give a speech, I was far beyond humbled and felt very inadequate to respond to their praise, but praised God for the partnership He had given us; between nationals and missionaries. The celebration ended with the blessing of the truck and then it was driven around in front of the clinic followed by people singing and dancing.

Every year the Zimba Mission Hospital gives a special Christmas meal and gifts to the patients. The mission made up packages of toiletries and toys for the hospital that had been donated by people. This may be the only gift those people received this Christmas. They were very happy to receive those things.

December was a reminder of many things: the need to look out for our brothers and sisters, the great need in this world, the generosity and gratitude of people, but most importantly the deep love of the Father shown as He gave His Son for us. May we never forget what's most important in life!
Picture: Zimba missionaries posing like Zambians - they can be smiling big, but they instantly put on a straight face for a picture.

Please continue to pray for the missionaries in Zambia. Pray that God would continue to use us to help and bless others, that we would continue to learn the language and build connections with Zambians, and that we would persevere through tough times.

Pray also for national Christians, that God would build them up and help them to reach their fellow Zambians. Also that the partnership between nationals and missionaries would continue to grow strong.

I hope you had a very merry Christmas and have a blessed year to come!

Help from Visitors

2009-12-06T15:52:00.008-04:00

Kamwamba! (Hello),

December is here and the Christmas season is in full swing. November was very busy; we had visitors the entire month. The I-tech/Samaritans Purse team came to upgrade the electricity at the hospital so that it can support the equipment in the operating rooms and a new machine for sterilizing the implements used for surgeries. Then the Battle Creek team came for two reasons: to give a leadership training seminar at a local church as well as do much needed eye surgeries at the hospital. Many times people only have access to treatment when specialized teams come and donate their time and work. Both teams worked very hard and made a big difference to the people they treated, served, and worked with.

I am happy to have been able to host them and provide a place for them to unwind, rest, and reflect on the day. My ministry is to a wide variety of people and help other ministries opportunities happen. Thank you! Your prayers keep us safe and going strong and your support makes this possible!

Please pray that more people can be helped by future teams.

Have a merry Christmas and God bless!

Praise Notes!

2009-11-07T05:05:00.008-04:00

Thank you so much for praying! God answered your prayers.

This past Monday, Meghan (a short-term volunteer) and I made the 160 km round-trip on the bumpy road to Livingstone to renew our visitor visas. We were in and out of the office with our new visas in 20 minutes. That's a record! She had done this process 3 times before and it always took her days to get a new visa.

After taking care of that, on Wednesday Dr. Joan and I traveled 5 hours northeast to Lusaka to pick up a work team. We stopped in at the head immigration office to check on my employment permit. Usually it takes at least 6 weeks to be ready for pick-up, but some missionaries have waited 4 months or more for their work permits. It was ready and I was able to pick it up (another record). I can now take up my full responsibilities and can be in the country for two years without having to go through this process again. Praise the Lord!!

Keep up the good work. Your prayers do make a difference!!

Orientation is Over

2009-11-01T14:43:00.009-04:00

I can't believe I have been in Zambia for a month already. Though I continue to learn many things each day, the orientation period is over.

This is a diverse country with many languages and peoples. Because of the English influence, people usually have a Zambian name and an English name; like Edith, Susan, and Fred. However, one will also find Defensity, Averager, Lonely, and many more. In a place where the meanings of names are important, I wonder why some have the names they do.

In the last month I have had the full picture of what my responsibilities will be while in Zambia. I will be responsible for the running of the Zimba Mission, which includes overseeing 8 Zambian employees, organizing and hosting teams, and the finances & bookkeeping. I will also be the business manager for Global Partners in Zambia. Responsibilities for this include the paying of taxes, and finances and bookkeeping. These two positions were held by two different missionaries and have been combined to make a full-time position while those missionaries are on home ministries back in the States.

What does all that look like? It means trips to Livingstone (which is about a 160 km round-trip from Zimba on a rough, dirt road) to get groceries and other supplies, banking and paying bills, as well as picking up and droping off teams at the airport. Zimba has only a small shop where we can get bread and very few other items. A trip to Livingstone takes all day because there is always many errands to run and things take so much longer to do here than in North America. Working with teams include the communication, planning, and preparation prior to their arrival and then I help our cook, Edi, prepare meals for them and when she is off, I do the cooking.

This is my part in the overall ministry that takes place here in Zambia. The teams come to work at the Mission Hospital, do construction or repairs, or VBS, etc. This could not happen without someone organizing on this side of the ocean. Also, the other missionaries are doctors and are needed at the hospital. Someone is needed to keep things running so they can focus on the health concerns of people.

I have learned so much since my arrival. My chitonga (language) is coming along. I have learned the ins and outs of my various responsibilities, and also about various medical things. I assisted an eye doctor by logging patients at a rural health clinic and will have other opportunities to help at the rural health clinics. However, I still have much to learn about the people and culture here, cooking for teams, and the way business is carried out in Zambia.

Prayer Requests:

- Before you wake up tomorrow (Monday), I will be in the immigration office renewing my visitor visa. This is a simple process of them taking my paperwork and stamping my passport, however, usually it takes two or three trips to the office before they do that. Please pray that it will take only one trip because there are many other things to do this week.

- On Wednesday I go to Lusaka (5 hours from Zimba) to check on my work permit. Pray that it will be ready and that I am able to pick it up. Without it, I am not legally allowed to work. I have been assisting another missionary while I'm waiting for it. Once I have it I can be doing everything I'm meant to be doing.

- Please continue to pray for my adjustment to Zambia and that the relationships that have been made would continue to grow. Pray that I will find a close friend here much like I had in Swaziland.

Step 2 Complete

2009-10-03T13:39:00.011-03:00

Greetings from Zimba, Zambia!!

Thank you for your prayers! God has answered them and will continue to do so. The journey here was long, but uneventful and I have finally arrived at my destination at the Zimba Mission in Zambia. Zimba is a small town about 1 1/2 hours from the nearest city of Livingstone. The road from Livingstone to Zimba is mostly dirt and very rough. You know you have reached Zimba when the good, paved road starts, but if you blink you may miss it.

Today I had the grand tour of the mission compound and the hospital, which is just a little ways down the street from the mission. Right now I am learning my way around and meeting the people who work at the mission and the hospital. Bit by bit, I am finding that there are many things I will be responsible for, such as paying the taxes, overseeing the running of the mission and hosting teams, but I have yet to know the full extent of what I will be doing.

My first tasks are to start learning the language and to get acquainted with the area and the mission. For the next month I will be working with Dr. Joan Jones as she helps me to transition into my work and she transitions out. She has been covering my responsibilities, until I could get here, as well as her medical duties at the hospital. Come November I should be in full swing of things and Joan can spend her time at the hospital, but she will still be around to help when needed.

Please pray for a smooth transition into my new country and responsibilities. Pray also for the doctors and nurses at the mission hospital. They see hundreds of patients everyday.

Step 1 Complete

2009-09-27T16:04:00.000-03:00

Greetings from Swaziland!

This is just a quick note to let you know that I made it safely to Swaziland. I have been enjoying visiting with my friends and played on the worship team last night and this morning during services. My church had prayer for me to send me off to Zambia and I will head there later this week.

Thanks you very much for your prayers!!

Are you ready for the journey?

2009-09-10T22:26:00.019-03:00

Soon my team is headed out on a brand new journey; one of new experiences, new friends, new languages, and new growth. This journey will have everyday routines and exciting ways in how God is working, trials and victories, perhaps sometimes a step back, but two steps forward. Are your ready?

Here is the itinerary:

Sept. 24 Halifax to Washington DC
Washington DC to Johannesburg
Sept. 25 Johannesburg to Swaziland

No, I haven't forgotten we're going to Zambia. The first stop isSwaziland to pick up my things, but more importantly, to say goodbye to friends there. Further travel arrangements will be made once we arrive in Swaziland and then we will continue on to our final destination in Zambia.

Yes, I realized that my team is not, necessarily, physically going to Zambia with me, but as part of the team, we are in this together. By covering this ministry in prayer and continuing to give faithfully, you are doing the work as much as I am. A team is at its best when all the teammates are practiced up and giving their all in the position they hold. I am so thankful to have a great team!!

Please pray for safe, uneventful travels, strength as one chapter closes and love and tears are exchanged both here and in Swaziland, and grace as another chapter begins in Zambia; to learn a new language and culture, make new friends, and to fit into the work already there. Pray also for the remaining needed travel arrangements and for the team already in Zambia. We have a great team there and I'm looking forward to working along side of them in Kingdom work!

So, are you ready for the journey? We're on our way!

The Moment We've All Been Waiting For!

2009-08-31T15:27:00.002-03:00

I am overjoyed to announce that the moment we have all been waiting and praying for has finally arrived!!! I have received notice of final release. This means that I have crossed the threshold of the support needed and can now purchase my airline tickets. I won't have an exact departure date until the tickets are purchased, but I will be flying out sometime near the end of September.

There are many things to do and many details that need to fall into place by the time I leave Canada, but the biggest is already in process. The papers for my work permit have arrived in Zambia and I pray that the process will go without complications and that the permit will be ready for my passport when I arrive.

A huge THANK YOU goes out to you who have prayed, made faith promises, and given faithfully. This moment would not have been possible without your part on this team!! Thank you for sticking with me! The Lord has used you to help reach this goal and will continue to use you in this ministry in Zambia. I can't wait to see what God has in store on this next leg of the journey!

Very Helpful!

2009-08-25T08:40:00.003-03:00

It is very helpful to missionaries when a supporter directly lets Global Partners know their support intentions. The sooner they know, the easier it is for them to determine when a missionary has enough prayer and financial support coming in, to safely send them to the mission field.

This can be done for me at http://www.wesleyan.org/gp/makefaithpromise/WM04-0334. Thank you!!!

A Busy Summer

2009-08-12T08:19:00.010-03:00

Greetings! The summer is flying right by. The last six weeks have been packed full, but fun. I attended Beulah family camp. It is always a great time! There was good teaching in the services. God spoke to me, touched my heart and is helping change/grow some areas in my life. I'm thankful for Steve Wingfield and Jim Lo for being obedient in what God wanted them to share. It was also great to see many friends and reconnect with people. The services and fellowship were the highlights of the week.

I was able to give a missions moment on the last day of Beulah family camp as well as share with Corbett Avenue Wesleyan, Easton Wesleyan, Hartland Wesleyan, and do a missions moment at Riverside Wesleyan Camp since then. Each time I share, and place I visit, is a new experience and I have the opportunity to see familiar faces and make new friends. I have been blessed by the hospitality and kindness of many people and pray that I have been a blessing to them!

I recently heard from Pastor Jim of the Manzini Christian Community Church. This is the church in Swaziland I served with. They have started doing prayer drives and walks in the city and are experiencing spiritual warfare as a result. Please pray that Satan's tactics would not be successful, that God would move in the city, and for perseverance of the people in the church. They were able to make new contacts with people who came to church for friendship Sunday and some have continued to come since then. Praise the Lord that He is in control and working in people's lives!

I thank God for the team of supporters, both prayer and financial, that He has built and continues to add to. Please continue to pray for my safety as I travel, that God would speak through me as I share, and that the remaining support will come in quickly so I can head for Zambia soon (Lord willing in September). I have already seen God's provision and protection and am looking forward to what He is going to do next; in North America and Africa. Thank you for joining me on this journey!

Questions & Answers

2009-07-02T16:23:00.006-03:00

Welcome to the Questions and Answer segment of the updates. I realize the changes that have occurred may have brought some questions to mind. Below I have answered some common questions, but if you have questions about anything, feel free to write myself or Heather Bradley (bradleyh@wesleyan.org) at Global Partners.

What will you be doing in Zambia?

Field administration includes, but is not limited to, keeping records, taking care of the finances of the mission, and overseeing workers employed by the mission for helping with teams and maintenance. It is somewhat of a broad term meaning I am there for whatever need I can fill at a given time. There are many aspects involved in the overall ministry in a specific area. I am one gear in what keeps it running.

There is much involved with work teams. Before a team arrives planning, organization, and communication needs to happen with both the team and nationals the team will be working with. Once a team arrives, time is spent getting them settled, connected with nationals and into their various projects, as well as caring for their needs during their stay.

Being hostess also means hosting anyone who needs a place to stay for the night and caring for any needs they might have. For example, if someone's car breaks down we give them a place to stay and I would help them find a place to get their car fixed, etc. I'm looking forward to this. Who knows who God will send my way and how I can minister to them?

How does your assignment impact the lives of nationals and build the church in Zambia?

Teams bring a unique dynamic to the field. Whether it’s a construction, medical, or ministry team, team members work/minister side by side with nationals and have an influence and impact on people’s lives. Teams are an encouragement and help to the national church and missionaries alike and team members go home ministered to as well.

Through other aspects of my ministry, I will have opportunities to mentor, influence, and show God’s love to people; whether it’s caring for a stranger or being a witness through my actions while running errands. Just being in Zambia gives me opportunities to share Jesus with Zambians.

When do you leave for the field?

As is the case with every Global Partners (GP) missionary, I am required to have 100% of my budget in faith promises/pledges before being released to return to the field. This budget is determined by GP, working with missionaries on the field, and considering the needs of the ministry being done.

My ministry is currently 82% funded. As soon as the remaining 18% of faith promises come in I will be leaving for Zambia. This is the equivalent to 44 people pledging $20/month, etc.

What happened to the funds given during your time in Canada?

All funds given throughout the year through a local church, district office, or directly to Global Partners (GP) is held and accumulates in an account at GP to be used for my ministry when I arrive on the field. I am, however, able to be reimbursed for travel expenses when I share with a church as this is part of my ministry at this time.

The Lord has been good to me and expenses over the year have been minimal. I have had various jobs to cover living expenses as I work to return to Africa.

What important papers do you need before you leave for Zambia?

Many different kinds of important papers are needed before arriving on the field. There is the passport, which I already have, the airline tickets, and an entry visa to the destination country. However, before the ticket can be bought and the visa applied for, other important papers must be in.

These important papers are faith promises/pledges/written communication of giving. There are many different things you can call them. Global Partners (GP) requires all their missionaries to have 100% of their budget in faith promises before leaving for the field.

Faith Promises are what get missionaries to the field and the fulfillment of those commitments is what keeps them on the field.

GP needs to have an idea that a ministry is funded before releasing a missionary for the field. Even if funds are being sent in faithfully, filling out a faith promise card, indicating what is already being given, and sending it in to GP will help me get to the field sooner.

Once these papers are in order, I can get the other papers in order and I’m on may way!

Did you really buy a cottage?

Yes. This past month I purchased a cottage. I needed a home base on the mainland. With all the traveling requirements of home ministries, it’s difficult coming and going on the ferry, especially in the winter. This place was affordable, fully winterized and just what I needed; a place of renewal. It’s amazing how God provides!

This is not covered by GP funding. My first loan payment is at the end of July and I have been mowing lawns, etc. to cover these expenses. It didn’t take me long to notice that my monthly payments are less than what it costs me to rent a room and this way I have something to show for it in the end. Now I have a place on the mainland to live during my time home and while I’m in Africa my family will use and care for my cottage.

This is an answer to prayer!

All Aboard For Zambia

2009-06-06T07:42:00.011-03:00

You guessed it. My new ministry assignment is in Zambia, which is almost directly north of Swaziland, after going through South Africa and Zimbabwe. Zambia has 11 times the population of Swaziland (and then some) and is slightly larger than Texas. I will be living in Zimba, which is about 5 or 6 hours southwest from Lusaka, the capital of Zambia.

I will be filling in for a missionary who is returning to the States for a year of home ministries. I will be serving the nationals and missionaries by doing field administration as well as organizing and hosting work teams. My role in Zambia may only be for one year, but I plan to serve my 4-year term in Africa. My support role fills a need and, whether in Zambia or somewhere else in Africa, works to strengthen and encourage the African church.

Currently a missionary doctor is carrying the responsibilities until I can finish fundraising and get on the field. I'm sure the hospital will be happy to have one of their doctors back doing medical things. Please pray that the rest of my ministry support will come in quickly.

Also pray for the church in Swaziland. The steps they are taking are good, but the road won't be easy. They need God's guidance and strength.

Thank you very much for coming on this journey with me. I couldn't do it without your prayers and faith promises. I look forward to what is next and what God is going to do.

Change is In the Air

2009-06-03T08:26:00.006-03:00

Can you believe it's June already? We are finally starting to see a glimps of warm weather up here in the north. I am eagerly awaiting the change of seasons into summer.

During the month of May I had the opportunity to share with Trinity Wesleyan in Bristol, NB and also with Community Wesleyan in Fort Fairfield, ME. I am blessed by the warm welcome from churches and the hospitality of those who have me in their homes. I enjoy making some new friends and the visits we have.

There are a lot of changes happening, and not just in the weather. My destination and ministry assignment are also changing. I will not be returning to Swaziland because the Swazi church is beginning to take on roles and responsibilities previously held by missionaries, which is the goal we work towards. Global Partners has a new role for me where my gifts can be used to encourage the church's development. Please join me in prayer while I consider this new role and seek God's direction for this new season of my life. I look forward to returning to Africa and know God has a place for me in His work there.

Safe Travels

2009-05-02T08:46:00.002-03:00

Greetings from Canada,

I just want to let everyone know we made it home safely with an uneventful trip. Thank you so much for praying!

I look forward to seeing many friends and making new ones as I continue sharing with churches this month and next. Lord willing I will be back in Swaziland long-term in August.

Transitions

2009-04-25T05:09:00.012-03:00

Last weekend was our Africa Area Missionary Retreat. There were Wesleyan missionaries from around Africa: Sierra Leone, Ghana, Zambia, Mozambique, and Swaziland; 25 in all. Some of whom I had never met before. We spent time in training, fellowship, team building, and communion. Retreat is always a special time as we get to know our fellow missionaries better and can share our joys and struggles with each other as well as hear from God. We go back to our fields refreshed and encouraged.

Well, six weeks are just about up and it's time for me to make the transition back to Canada on April 29th to finish my home ministries. I am already eager to return and will continue to serve under the new Africa Area Director, Bob Bagley. I am thankful for the opportunity to be in Swaziland and help out during this transition. Being here, after being gone for a year, has also given me a chance to reconnect with people and do what I love. I have enjoyed my time here, especially being back on the worship team and seeing the growth in them.

Please pray for the Cox family and I as we make our way back to North America. We are traveling together as far as Washington DC and then I keep going on to Canada.

Change isn't always easy, but it happens. In the life of a missionary, transition is normal, but when you've made friends, it still pulls at your heart. Things are going to be very different when I return to Swaziland long-term, but we move ahead and look forward to what God is going to do in each of ours lives, wherever we are. We are still on the same team, doing the work of the Lord. Please pray for us as these transitions take place and for God's direction and strength.

Pray for the national church in Swaziland. They are also in transition. The leadership has the huge responsibility of directing the local church in God's vision and work. Pray that God will direct their decision making.

Thank you for joining us in prayer!

A Chorus of Blessing

2009-04-02T04:08:00.004-03:00

Sanibonani (Hello),

I can hardly believe I have been in Swaziland for two weeks already. These couple of weeks have flown by so quickly and I know the remaining 4 weeks of my stay will do the same. This time here is like a chorus of blessing in the song of my life and I am grateful for it.

Caleb Machuku is my pastor's son who, over a year ago, was burned with boiling water. He is a normal little boy and has only a little evidence of the accident on his legs. Even those scars will continue to fade over time. He runs around and loves to talk, although half the time I'm not sure whether it's siSwati or English.

The fundraising concert here at the Bible College went well. The college is looking for ways to be self-sufficient and this is just the beginning of what is being done to help out. There were 12 churches represented with choirs of various sizes. It's interesting. Around here a choir is 2 or more people singing together and even a choir of two fills a room with song very easily. Oh, how I have missed African singing!

It is so good to be back with the Manzini Christian Community Church, playing the guitar on the worship team. The worship team has grown in size since I was here last and it's great to see them stepping up, taking leadership and also trying new songs, etc. I'm very proud of them!

There are a lot of transitions happening here, including a transition of the Africa Area Director. Rick and his family are returning to the States and the new area director will be here later this year. The bulk of what I am doing is helping Rick with the extra work as he prepares things for the new area director and tries to make the transition for his successor as smooth as possible.

Thank you so much for all the prayer. Though things are complicated here, there is so much potential and we're looking forward to what God is going to do in these situations.

It is a blessing to be here, even if just for a short while, and as this chorus of blessing plays out, I pray that I will be a blessing to others by being here.

Hlala Kahle (Stay well)!

Emmanuel Wesleyan Bible College Concert

2009-03-20T19:59:00.001-03:00

Greetings once again from Swaziland!

I am rested up and adjusting to the time change. We are plugging away at the work here and staying busy. However, it didn't take long to see that things are not how I left them. A year is too long to be away! It is good to see my friends again and to be back working in Africa and I am thankful for this opportunity, even if just for a short time; until I can return long-term.

Tomorrow night the college is having a fundraiser concert. Choirs from surrounding churches have been invited to be a part of this. We don't know how many people will come, but we are praying for a good crowd to come and support their Bible college in this way. Please pray for the concert tomorrow night.

Also, continue to pray for discernment, direction, and strength for everyone here. Things are difficult at times and we really need God's direction in what we are to do.

Safe Arrival in Swaziland

2009-03-18T07:54:00.002-03:00

The Cox family and I arrived safely together in Swaziland yesterday. Thank you for your prayers for safe travels.

I'm trying to figure out what I will do for internet, but am getting settled into my home for the next 6 weeks. It has been good so far to see everyone. Please continue to lift us up in prayer. We all need prayer for discernment, direction, and strength. God bless!

A Short-term Trip to Swaziland

2009-03-13T23:28:00.001-03:00

Since my last email, which wasn't too long ago, quite a bit has happened. First, my support went up to 70%. Praise the Lord! Secondly, I am presently getting ready for a short-term trip to Swaziland. I fly from Halifax on Monday morning (March 16th) for a 6-week stay. There is a lot of extra work to do in Swaziland right now and it was requested that I come for a period of time to help out.

Global Partners is allowing me to go for this time, although I am not finished fund raising. When I return the end of April I will continue fund raising until I am fully funded and can return to Swaziland long-term. Lord willing that will be this summer. The Lord has already blessed me with chances to share with churches in May and June. I still have a few Sundays available so if I haven't been to your church yet and you would like to have me come and share, just send me an email.

Please pray for safe travels. My itinerary is as follows (in Atlantic time):

Mon, Mar. 16 Halifax to Washington DC 9:30am
Mar. 16 Washington DC to Johannesburg 6:40pm
Tues, Mar. 17 Johannesburg to Swaziland 11:20am
Arrival in Swaziland is around 12:20pm

Pray also for direction and strength of all us missionaries in Swaziland. We need a special touch from God.

Counting My Blessings

2009-02-28T22:38:00.004-04:00

Can you believe that March is here? Spring is on its way and things are beginning to thaw. That in itself is a reason to be thankful! I have been counting my blessings and have so many things to be thankful for. Here are just a few:

Pastor Walter is continuing to run the feeding stations and he and his family are living on our Bible college campus. We thank the Lord for the provision of their needs!

I am very thankful for the many opportunities I have had these past couple of months. I had really been praying for ways to connect with people here at church and the Lord provided! I joined the choir and enjoy the practices. They have made me feel welcome from the beginning. I have a part-time job at the church; working in reception and making their bulletins each week. I am also able to help out by volunteering in the Care Ministries department throughout the week.

I met a French lady at church who offered to tutor me. Another answer to prayer! We get together once a week to speak French. We have become good friends and have a similar heart for missions in Africa. She is an encouragement to me.

I am thankful for the hospitality of pastors and churches as I travel and for the many speaking opportunities I've had and the ones yet to come. Tomorrow I share with the Head of Millstream Wesleyan Church and will be sharing with the Brown's Flat Fellowship next week and the Easton Wesleyan Church in a few weeks.

God has given me a wonderful ministry team and continues to add to it. I truly value each member of this team and this ministry wouldn't be possible without each person's contribution. Your help through prayer keeps me safe while I travel, etc. Your help through giving has made it possible for me to be this close to returning to Swaziland and will keep me there for my 4-year term doing what God has called me to do. Thank you so much for being a part of this team! I am thankful for what God has done through you and what He is yet to do!

Canadians Can Give Without Effort

2009-01-19T16:13:00.001-04:00

Here is a form for Canadians for an automatic giving to eliminate the trouble of trying to remember to send a check each month, year, etc. The Moncton Wesleyan Church has graciously offered to provide this service for my team. I'm not trying to take giving away from other churches. Feel free to ask and see if your church would do this for you. I just wanted to let you know this is available.

Just copy and paste the following information to your computer and print. I tried to get a document so you can download it to make it easier, but until I figure out how to do that, this will have to do.

Moncton Welsyean Church
945 St. George Blvd
Moncton, NB E1E 2C9
(506) 857-2293

PRE-AUTHORIZED GIVING

PERSONAL INFORMATION

(please print)
Name ____________________________________________

Address __________________________________________

City, Prov., Postal Code ______________________________

Daytime phone # ___________________________________

E-mail Address ____________________________________

GIVING INFORMATION

$_________ weekly / bi-weekly / monthly (circle one)

Start date ___________________________ (Monday only)

End date ____________________________ (if applicable)

AUTHORIZATION

I authorize the Moncton Wesleyan Church to draw on my bank account for the support of SELINDA INGALLS. I understand that I may cancel or change this authorization at any time by notifying the Church in writing.

Signature _________________________________________

Date ____________________________________________

Void cheque attached? ____ Yes ____ No

The Ant & The Elephant

2009-01-01T13:55:00.002-04:00

One day Elephant was walking through the bush when he fell into a ravine, landed on his back and was unable to flip himself over to get out. After a while, along came Lion. “Lion, you are very strong. Please, help me out of this ravine!” asked Elephant. Lion replied, “I can’t help you, I might get dirty,” and then he went on his way. Then Giraffe wondered by. “Giraffe, you are big. Please help me out of this ravine,” begged Elephant. “If I try and help you my legs will get caught in the vines and I will be stuck, too,” explained Giraffe as he wandered on. Many animals came by, but each one had a reason why they couldn’t help Elephant.

After much struggling on his own, Elephant felt a tiny thing moving on his trunk. Finally, it came into focus and Elephant heard a little voice, “I will help you, Elephant!” “But how can you help me, Ant? You are so small and I am so big!” This didn’t discourage Ant. He ran off and a few minutes later returned with all his friends. All together the ants pushed, pulled, and lifted Elephant until he was safely out of the ravine. “It is true, Elephant, that I alone could never help you out, but with many there is power. When put together, the little each one of us can do alone is multiplied and we can accomplish big things.”

As of the end of 2008 my support is at 50%. That's a big step! Half way there! In His timing God will send me back to Swaziland, but I must still be faithful and do what He has called me to do for right now. Team building and ministering to people is the season of ministry I am in for the time being. Along the way some people have said that they wished they could help my ministry, but it really doesn’t require a lot. Every dollar makes a difference. Don’t get me wrong, large faith promises are more than welcome. However, it’s not about how large or small the gift is, but about being faithful to God and what He wants to you give. I just need 106 people giving $20/month for 4 years to be fully funded for this coming term. That’s only $0.67/day! When put together, the little each person can give adds up quickly.

Happy New Year!

2009-01-01T11:58:00.015-04:00

I trust you had a safe and merry Christmas and a happy new year's eve and are looking forward to 2009. I am looking into the year with expectation. I can only imagine what it will hold.

What does Christmas feel like to you? I often hear people make comments like 'This doesn't feel like Christmas' or "Now it feels like Christmas.' This year I pondered that. Is it the gifts? The concerts and services? What we feel is determined by our perspective on a situation or event. For me, it is time with my family that makes this season 'feel' like Christmas. With storms during the week leading up to Christmas we spent most of the time in the house playing games, talking, laughing, etc. It's those times I cherish and make the season special for me, especially this year. The next few Christmases will be spent in Swaziland.

God sent His son to earth as a baby to restore our relationship with Him so we can live as part of His family. With this came Christmas as a time to remember and celebrate this special part of God's redemption plan. Family and friends make Christmas for me. Though not perfect, we are made for relationships and that's what the first Christmas was all about.

An update on Swazi pastor Walter Malaza:

He and his family have been staying in a house about 30 minutes (driving) from where they live, however, this house is only available for a little while and then they are not sure where they will go. The physical wounds have healed, but the emotional wounds will take longer. God protected them and He can heal them. They really appreciate all the prayer so far. Please keep lifting them up!

Please continue to pray for safety as I travel, especially now that winter is here, and that the remaining 50% will come in quickly. My goal now is to be back in Swaziland in April.

May God bless you in 2009!

Americans Can Give Without Effort

2008-12-18T13:23:00.008-04:00

Here is an EFT form for Americans for an automatic withdrawal of their pledge to eliminate the trouble of trying to remember to send a check each month, year, etc. Just copy and paste the following information to your computer and print. I tried to get a document so you can download it to make it easier, but until I figure out how to do that, this will have to do.

AUTHORIZATION AGREEMENT FOR PRE-AUTHORIZED PAYMENTS

The Wesleyan Church, 13300 Olio Road, Fishers, IN 46037
Mailing address: PO Box 50434, Indianapolis, IN 46250
Global Partners/Department of World Mission (317) 774-7950 gphm@wesleyan.org

I (we) hereby authorize GLOBALPARTNERS, hereinafter called GP, to initiate debit entries to my (our) checking account indicated below and the depository named below, hereinafter called Depository, to debit the same to such account on the 25th of each month.

MONTHLY AMOUNT AUTHORIZED: $____________

GP DESIGNATION/FUND: Selinda (WM04-0334)

DEPOSITORY (BANK)

NAME__________________________________________

BRANCH_______________________________________

CITY__________________________________ STATE____________ ZIP CODE _____________________

ROUTING NUMBER __________________________ ACCOUNT NO. ________________________________
9-digit number at the bottom left of check numbers at middle bottom of check

This authorization is to remain in full force and effect until GP and Depository have received written notification from me (or either of us) of its termination in such time and in such manner as to afford GP and Depository a reasonable opportunity to act on it.

NAME(S)_____________________________________________________________________________

ADDRESS_______________________________ CITY/STATE/ZIP_________________________________

PHONE NUMBER__________________________ EMAIL ADDRESS_________________________________

CHURCH_____________________________________________________________________________

DATE____________ SIGNED __________________________ SIGNED ____________________________

NOTE: All written debit authorizations must provide that the receiver may revoke the authorization only by notifying the originator in the manner specified in the authorization.

Mail this completed, signed EFT Authorization Form with a voided check to:

Global Partners
PO Box 50434
Indianapolis, IN 46250

Urgent Prayer Needed

2008-12-12T16:12:00.002-04:00

Early this morning I received an email from Eunice in Swaziland telling of the events over the last couple of days.

Please pray for Pastor Walter Malaza. He's a Swazi pastor who has started a number of feeding stations in Swaziland for orphans. His dream is to have a church and a school at each of these and this has already happened at one of them. They have had opposition from some people in the community who have been trying to take the school away from him.

Two nights ago two men broke into Walters house and robbed them. Thankfully the kids slept through it all, but this has traumitized the family. Last night a group of at least ten men came back with axes, machettes, and knives. Walter believes they came to kill him as they didnt seem to be after money. They broke windows in his house. They also broke the burglar bars and did other damage to their house. Watler was hit with an ax that came through the window although not cut. His wife was hit in the back by a block thrown through the window. A neighbour heard the noise and came running over with a club and the men ran away. Rick picked up Walter and his family and they spent the rest of the night at the Cox's house.

There are a number of things that we can see where the hand of God was on them. Yesterday someone from the church gave Walter a cell phone to use and so he was able to call for help last night. Other neighbors heard the noise but were afraid to come out. This one man came and scared them off. The two youngest children weren't there but were at their grandmothers. This was truly a blessing. Two of the girls saw and recognized two of the guys this time so hopefully they will be able to get them and hopefully they will tell who the others are. God was definitely looking out for them. We thank God for protecting their lives, but we pray that this can be resolved quickly so the family can begin healing from these traumitizing events.

Thank you for joining us in prayer for Walter and his family.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-04T17:10:00.009-04:00

I trust this post finds you well and encouraged. The fall seems to have gone by very quickly and December is here already.

I have started December off very encouraged. The first week of lobster fishing went well and the weather was beautiful. I had a wonderful time visiting the different churches this past month and sharing with them about the work in Swaziland. I passed my oral French exam and only have the written exam left for the semester. I am also looking forward to a break from school and traveling. I will be going home to spend the Christmas season with friends and family.

I am encouraged about the support that has been coming in. I really can't thank you enough for your part in helping me return to Swaziland and for your part in the ministry. There is no doubt that I am covered with prayer and financially I am at 40%. If you are already giving or are planning to give, but haven't let Global Partners know yet, click the faith promise link in the side. If you give Global Partners written documentation of your giving, it gets counted to the total I need to return to Swaziland. Without the documentation the funds will still be used for my ministry once I get to Swaziland, but it will not be added to the total I need to allow me to leave for the field. I only need 100 people to pledge to give $20/month to be fully funded. Praise the Lord using willing people like you!

May God bless you this season as we celebrate Jesus' birth. Without this humble beginning, ministry would have no point and we would have no hope. The Lord is good!!

You can help!

2008-11-10T21:22:00.009-04:00

October has been a busy, but very good month. I was able to get home for a little while for Thanks Giving and had a wonderful time of fellowship with family and friends. My French class is going well and I aced my midterm with a 96.9%. Each week I am reminded that I have a ministry here as people watch my life. Many of my classmates are not Christians. We don't get a chance for much conversation apart from what we are learning, but actions speak volumes and I pray that I will be a good witness with my life and someone may want to know why I'm different from others.

I was also able to visit and share with Cornerstone Wesleyan (Hammonds Plains, NS), Pathway Wesleyan (Bangor, ME), Sussex Wesleyan and a few of their small groups, and First Wesleyan in Fredericton. Each church I visit is unique in its people, its building, and other aspects, but I enjoy visiting all of them. I am always amazed that no matter where I go I find people connected to where I'm from. They're everywhere!! I am thankful for my heritage and upbringing and love the fact that as I travel there that common ground with so many people. Of course, we always have common ground in our faith in Jesus and for that I am more thankful than being from the Island.

This month I have already shared with Central Wesleyan and Seal Cove Wesleyan and will be sharing in two weeks at the Pentecostal church and Grand Harbour Baptist and Seal Cove Baptist are having a combined evening service in Seal Cove. Following that I will be at New Hope Wesleyan (Kentville, NS) for their missions conference and at Central Nova Wesleyan (Truro, NS) the last weekend of this month. Please pray that God would work through me and use me to minister as I share, but also the whole time I am there. Also pray that God would move the hearts of people to pray, give, and go in regards to missions.

You might being thinking that I missed a weekend this month. I did not share yesterday. It was fisherman Sunday on the island; a special service for the remembrance of those lost at sea and prayer for those going out this year. Lobster fishing season opens on tomorrow and this is much awaited by many. I will be working with my father on his boat this week. Please pray for safety on the water, good weather, and a good catch this year.

As I travel, I have been asked some questions about faith promise. Please, allow me to explain what a faith promise is:

A faith promise is a financial commitment that you make to give money as directed by God. The amount should be determined after prayerful consideration and out of obedience. It is an agreement with God to be personally involved in ministry to others around the world through giving beyond tithing. Your faith promise commitment is between you and God and no one will call on you to collect. Since you are trusting God to provide the amount He asked you to give, if something happens and you feel you are unable to fulfill that commitment talk to God about it. When you participate in God’s work through a faith promise, you become a shareholder in the reaching of lost people with the gospel of Jesus Christ.

For more information click: http://www.wesleyan.org/gp/faithpromise/missionaries. Also, there are some videos from Global Partners on faith promises. Please look at these. These resources are for you and your church so feel free to use them and pass them along.

So how does faith promise giving relate specifically to Global Partners' missionaries? Each missionary is required to raise 100% of their budget for a 4-year term in faith promises. The money doesn't have to be all in at once, but a faith promise is needed so Global Partners knows that people are intending to give toward a missionary's ministry. Money can come in over time (eg. monthly) and in faith we believe the funds will be there to cover our ministry each year since it is merely God directing funds through individuals who were willing to be used by Him.

I am currently 35% funded for my first year on the field and 20% funded for my term. If people would be willing to make a faith promise for my term (4 years) instead of just one year then it would lower the amount I need to raise. Let me explain. If everyone who made/makes a faith promise toward my ministry did so for one year only, then I would have to raise enough to cover 4 years before I could return to Swaziland. However, if everyone who made/makes a faith promise did so for the length of my term, then I would only have to raise the amount for one year and the following years are covered, reaching my goal more quickly and getting me to the field earlier. If God can provide for the commitment for one year, He can easily provide it for 4 or more years. Please prayerfully consider the length of my term when making a faith promise.

I am so thankful for the people on my team and look forward to the others who will be joining us in this ministry!

Thank you so much!

The Season for Learning & Change

2008-10-02T14:41:00.003-03:00

Bonjour!

September has come and gone. Learning has begun once again with children returning to school. The leaves are changing, bringing the beauty of the season, and October is under way. Many things have changed for me this past month and I am learning as days go by.

First, I am just a few weeks into having braces. I am finding this to be a blessing and a curse. They are not fun to have, but they are necessary to correct my jaw pain. I am thankful for the opportunity to have this treated.

Secondly, just a few weeks ago I moved to Moncton. I am staying with a wonderful family who has made me feel at home with them. I am still trying to meet people and make new friends, but I am enjoying my time here so far. I also began taking a conversational French class at the University of Moncton. It isn't necessary to speak French in Swaziland, but this class will come in useful when communicating with church leaders all over Africa. Many African countries speak French instead of English. Plus, one never knows when it might come in handy when traveling, especially around Moncton. Please pray with me that I will make some friends, but also reach people here as this is my mission field right now.

Just a little while ago a group of mostly family from Grand Manan came up to support Auntie Joan and the ALS society. It was a good time of fellowship. We went out for supper and also participated in the Walk For ALS. There was a group of around 23 Grand Mananers there for the 5 km walk. Joan walked the first kilometer with us. It was good to have her there with us and we are praying for God to heal her muscles. Please join us in this prayer.

In September I had the privilege of sharing with the Lower Brighton Wesleyan Church, many small groups from Moncton Wesleyan, the Perth-Andover Wesleyan Women, Woodstock Wesleyan, and the Collin Creek Community Church in Plano, Texas. It has been a joy to reconnect, fellowship and share with each of these. This month I look forward to being with Cornerstone Wesleyan (Hammonds Plains, NS), Pathway Wesleyan (Bangor), Sussex Wesleyan and various small groups, and First Wesleyan in Fredericton.

My total for faith promises is also changing. It is slowly and steadily rising. Praise the Lord! In His timing He will send me back to Swaziland. Please keep praying with me that the faith promises will continue to come in and be willing to be used if God calls you. Some people have said that they wished they could help my ministry, but it really doesn't require a lot. Don't get me wrong, large faith promises are more than welcome, but there is no need to be overwhelmed with the total amount I have to raise. This is something the Lord has been teaching me. Sometimes I, myself, get overwhelmed by it when I shouldn't. Think of it this way: if everyone receiving my updates gave $15/month for 4 years I would be fully funded for this coming term. When things are put in perspective they don't seem so bad. Plus, this is God's work so there is no need for me to worry. He has called and He will provide. I'm so thankful He is patient with me when I learn so slowly.

I am looking forward to what other lessons God has to teach me while I am in this season of my ministry. I pray that we will all be willing to learn when the need arises.

God's Protection and Provision

2008-07-25T20:26:00.004-03:00

It's been a while since I last wrote and between then and now I have attended missionary training, been many places, met many people, seen many friends, and visited many churches.

General conference has come and gone and history continues to be written. The Wesleyan Church now has its first female General Superintendent. Thank you for praying for everyone traveling to and from the conference and your prayers were answered. It was great to connect with people and meet the African church leaders and new people who stopped by the Africa Area booth. I now have faces for the people I communicate with all over Africa and spent time listening to their stories and about the work going on in their particular countries.

At the end of June I attended missionary training (MTI) for Global Partners. There was a large group of us, both career and GO-Net missionaries, many who were students with me at Bethany Bible College. The first week of training was packed with helpful content, such as worldview, personal security, language learning, cross-cultural evangelism, etc.
The last couple weeks of training were just as good as the first. We learned a lot about Islam and visited a mosque one Friday. It was an experience and eye opening. Some were very friendly and spoke with us before and after the service. At one point we were even invited to stand in line and pray with them, but we stayed at the back and just observed.

Directly following training, I headed to Beulah Camp Meetings in New Brunswick where I saw many friends and connected with people from all over North America. I was asked to give a "missions moment" in one of the evening services which often has 1000 or more in attendance. In addition, on July 27, I shared at the Norton Wesleyan Church. My mission moments, both at Beulah and Norton, went really well. Thank you for praying. I always get very nervous when I have to get up and speak, but God gives me courage and your prayers are part of that.

I just got back home from a whirlwind tour of the Western Pennsylvania district. I spent 10 days there, including travel, and spoke at 3 churches and met with pastors and others throughout the week. I travel roughly 2300 miles and most of it went smoothly. On the way home, however, while I was driving down the highway my steering wheel all of a sudden spun a little to the left, but I was still going straight, then the car began to shake. I was able to pull off to the side of the highway and after inspection found that 2 nuts on my front right tire came loose and fell off, then 2 bolts with their nuts broke off, leaving me with only one nut holding that tire on. This happened just south of Bangor, ME. I called CAA and they sent a tow truck and got towed to the boarder. He was also able to take a nut from 2 other tires for the loose one so I could safely drive across the boarder, to a hotel, and then to the garage to have the tire fixed the next day before coming home.

I am amazed and thankful for God’s protection and provision. Things could have been much worse, but nothing major happened. Plus, the CAA membership gives me 100 miles of towing free. I was over that a little, but the man didn’t charge me for the extra miles. It was also fairly inexpensive to fix the tire. Thank you so much for your prayers while I’m on the road. Anything can happen, but I rest in God’s protection and knowing that I’m covered in prayer. Please continue to pray for me as I travel and share.

The faith promises are slowly coming in and I am now at 20%. This is a great start and I thank God for people like you on my team who partner with me through prayer and sacrificial financial support. Without you, I could not continue. In order to ensure career missionaries are adequately funded, Global Partners requires a record of giving, done by faith promises, for the entire term, since my commitment to Swaziland is for more than one year. Simply put, without it I cannot return to Swaziland.
Please consider making a faith promise towards my ministry. The funds can come in over time. If you already support my ministry, but haven’t let Global Partners know your intentions, please click this link: http://www.globalpartnersonline.org/faithpromise?myFND=WM04-0334 and help me get to Swaziland in January. You do not have to change what you are doing. It’s just a matter of giving Global Partners record that my ministry is being funded. It takes faithful faith promises to place missionaries on the field and, of course, honoring those faith promises to keep them there. Thank you very much for being a part of this team!

God bless!

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Make a Faith Promise: http://www.globalpartnersonline.org/faithpromise?myFND=WM04-0334

Give online: https://www2.wesleyan.org/gp/donate/

My Sharing Schedule: http://www2.wesleyan.org/gp/mschedule2?myID=WM04-0334

A Good Start

2008-05-26T14:24:00.001-03:00

Spring is finally here and for the most part I no longer need a blanket and a heating pad to stay warm. I hope you have been able to thaw out as well from the winter chill.

April and May have been good months and a great start to my team building. I have spoke at a women's retreat, a morning service, a youth meeting, a Sunday School class, and two mother/daughter banquets; all from different churches. Each event was a different experience and I met a variety of people, many of whom have joined my prayer team. My favorite part of home ministries is the new people I meet at the various events.

A vital start to my team building has been getting set up online. Doing so have saved many dollars in postage, not to mention the instant access the Internet provides. Global Partners has made it possible to see missionary schedules as well as to be able to give and make faith promises online. See the links in the right hand column under "Become a Member of My Team". My fund number is WM04-0334.

**Note for Canadians: Global Partners can only issue American tax receipts. In order to receive a Canadian tax receipt for the donation, gifts need to be given through your local church.**

Prayer partners, financial gifts and faith promises are the three essential things missionaries need before returning to the field. Global Partners not only needs to receive the necessary financial gifts for a missionary's ministry, but also must have record of faith promises to cover the entire need of that budget. If you are already apart of my ministry team or you wish to become part of my team and haven't filled out a commitment card to make or renew a faith promise this year (for my new career term) please do so. It would help tremendously in getting me back to Swaziland by January 2009 as planned.

I really appreciate everyone who prays for and gives toward my ministry. Every person's part helps so much and impacts the work in Africa!

June holds different experiences as well. From June 6 to 10 I will be in Orlando, Florida working the Africa Area booth at the Wesleyan Church General Conference. I look forward to meeting many of the national leaders from all over Africa and new people who stop by the booth. Starting June 22 is the missionary training institute that Global Partners does for new missionaries; volunteer and career in Indianapolis. The training runs for three weeks, is a focused time of learning various methods and procedures and also provides an opportunity to become acquainted with the other members of our missionary team who are going out all over the world. I'm also excited about the possibility of more speaking engagements between those two events.

People are coming from all over the world for the General Conference in Orlando. Please pray for safe travels for everyone and that necessary visas would come in on time for the delegates.

Orientation for a New Journey

2008-04-10T18:12:00.001-03:00

You may be wondering what the new journey is because it may look the same as I have done before. It is the same, only this time I am doing it as a career missionary. Last week was spent at Global Partners, in Indiana, learning about all the ins and outs of the organization. It was very helpful in letting me know my responsibility is as a missionary and I was able to get to know the staff a little better. This also officially kicks of my home ministries and team building.

I'm in Michigan now and will be here until June. I have a few speaking engagements this month as follows:

April 13 - Eaton Rapids Wesleyan
April 19 - Jackson Cascades

For more details on my schedule you can visit the Global Partners' website.

Please pray for me as I visit churches and meet new people.

Thank you for joining with me on this journey!

I'm Home

2008-03-15T15:12:00.002-03:00

Greetings from cold Canada. At the last minute I found out that meetings have changed and I had two weeks off. I found a cheap ticket to Canada and went home to surprise my family. I arrived last night and we had a great time going to see everyone. I am home for two weeks and then head to Michigan as planned before. This is short, but I wanted to let you know I made it home safely and really appreciate your prayers.

Departing Swaziland

2008-03-06T03:34:00.001-04:00

One week from today I fly from Swaziland to North America. This may be the last correspondence from me until I get North America. I am spending the weekend with friends and then I will be busy packing and moving everything out of my apartment into storage. I don't think I will have much email access after tomorrow so I wanted to make sure I got this sent off before I leave Swaziland.

Here is how I'll be traveling:

Depart Swaziland March 13 - Arrive in Johannesburg
Depart Jo-burg - Arrive in Washington DC March 14
Depart Washington - Arrive Chicago
Depart Chicago - Arrive Detroit

Then I catch a bus to Jackson, MI where my friend will pick me up and take me to her house. She has arranged some speaking engagements for me and I will stay with her until June when I go to Indianapolis for missionary training before finally getting home to Canada in July.

Please be praying for safe travels and good weather along the journey so as to not have delays. I have a long journey ahead of me and really appreciate you praying for me.

Indvumiso Celebration

2008-02-27T05:45:00.009-04:00

WOW! The Lord is good!

Thank you for praying for the Indvumiso Celebration. It was a huge success! In the days leading up to the celebration we put up posters and handed out 2000 flyers. There were also TV & Radio commercials and interviews. We tried everything we could to put the word out.

When it came time for the celebration no one really knew what to expect. A lot of time and energy had gone into this and the day was finally there. We played, sang, and danced our hearts out for God's glory. While we were doing our part on stage, EWBC students, our church people, and other members of the Collin Creek Team were talking to people in the crowd, making contacts for our church and also helping those who were willing to receive Christ. It was a joint effort and would never have been possible if one part was lacking.

God did some miracles during the celebration. One being the stage was still standing when we were finished on it. With all the dancing the quickly built stage was swaying a number of inches back and forth and the back side of the stage also sank a few inches into the ground. Another was the protection from the heat and weather the Lord provided. The first day it threatened rain, but every time the clouds moved in the wind changed direction and blew them away. It was very hot and sunny on the last day with very little shade available. We praise God for His protection; we were able to have the celebration from 10 am to 5 pm without any problems. We also used a generator for part of our electricity needs for all three days of the celebration. We filled it up with gas before the first day and it didn't get any lower the whole time. We ran it for roughly 17 hours and we thought perhaps the gas gauge wasn't working, but when we opened it up the tank was just as full as when we started the first day.

The biggest and best miracle, however, that God did during the celebration was that of saving souls. It was all worth it, and we count our part a very small contribution, for God to work in the lives of people. At least two people were saved!! Now that's worth another indvumiso (praise) celebration! We thank God for all He did and for giving us this opportunity to be involved in it. WOW!

I am in the process of packing up my apartment and making final preparations to return to North America. I fly from Swaziland on March 13 (roughly 7 am Atlantic time). Please be praying for me as I travel. Below you will find my schedule of travels and church visits and you will also notice some empty dates. These are Sundays that I am available for church visits. If you notice that I will be in your area some time it may be possibly to do something mid-week as well for a small group or church board, etc. Feel free to contact me. I will keep you updated on where I am as I go. I look forward to seeing many of you soon.

April 5 to May 30 - Michigan Area
March 30 to April 4 - Global Partners Orientation at Headquarters (Indianapolis)
April 10 - WWI meeting at Doris'
April 13 - Eaton Rapids Wes.
April 19 - Jackson
May 9 - West Berlin Church
May 17 - Hastings
May 18 -
May 25 -
June 1 -
June 6 to 9 - General Conference (Festival of Nations), Florida
June 15 -
June 22 to July 11 - Global Partners Missionary Training Institute
July 12 & 13th - Beulah
July 27th - Norton Wesleyan (am)
August 3rd - Yarmouth and Woods Harbour (also August 5th)
August 10th - St. John (AM)
August 17th -
August 24th -
August 31st -
September 7 –
September 14th – Lower Brighton
September 15th - Missions Ladies Groups (Moncton)
September 16th - Cell Group (Moncton)
September 18th - Moncton Wes. Senior's Ministry
September 21st – Woodstock Wesleyan, Hartland Wesleyan
September 28th –
October 5th - Cornerstone (Halifax)
October 12th - Pathway (Bangor)
October 19th - Sussex Wes.
October 19th, 20th, & 22nd - Sussex Wesleyan small groups
October 26th – Fredericton First Wes.
November 2nd –
November 20th to 23rd – Kentville, NS
November 30th – Truro Wes.
December 7th –
December 14th –

Continued Recovery

2008-02-18T08:46:00.002-04:00

Caleb continues to get better. His burns are beginning to dry up, which is good. We are fortunate to have good health care nearby. He still has to go to the clinic everyday to have his bandages changed, but he is doing well. There have been no complication with his burns and he can straighten out his legs which will keep the skin from growing back in a way that would restrict movement in his legs. He was so close to walking before this accident and we all expect for him to be walking soon.

Machuku family passes along their appreciation for all the prayer!

Caleb Update

2008-02-08T14:07:00.001-04:00

Caleb has rough nights, which include a fever, but is doing much better. Both legs have bad second degree burns down the back of them and are bandaged from top to bottom. He is on a lot of pain medication and also antibiotics to prevent infection. He is a brave little boy, however, and despite his wounds, was smiles and babbles today and is now home from the hospital, but must go in everyday to have his dressings changed. Thank you for continuing to lift the Machukus in prayer!

Urgent Prayer Request for Caleb Machuku

2008-02-05T09:52:00.001-04:00

Around lunch time today Caleb (Pastor Jim Machuku's 8-month old son) pulled a boiling tea kettle down on himself. He is at the hospital being worked on as I type this. He is burned very badly on one leg; the skin is gone. I don't know anything more than that, but please pray for him and his family. I'll give more detail when I get it.

Different People Work Together

2008-01-29T03:52:00.001-04:00

Hoyo hoyo!

That's how they welcome you in southern Mozambique, often along with pressing each cheek to yours or a kiss on each cheek. The Swazi youth found this out at the first of the month when they took their first mission trip to Xai Xai, Mozambique. They spent a week there helping to build a church and doing home visitation.

It was interesting to see the Swazis reacting to everything. Although only a few hours from their home they were with a different tribe speaking different languages (Shangaan and Portuguese) and having a different culture; even eating different food. They were amazed by the many different things they saw and their world got a little bigger. They all had a great time and there is talk about organizing another mission trip, possibly to Zimbabwe, and a partnership has been formed between the churches in both countries. The Xai Xai youth also want to come to Swaziland on a mission trip. Missions is not just something for Westerners; it is world wide!

Next week we have a team arriving from the Collin Creek Community Church in Texas. The Manzini Christian Community Church is hosting the Indvumiso (Praise) Celebration on Feb.14 to 16 and Collin Creek is joining with our worship team for the event. It will be mostly music, but the purpose of the event is evangelism. This event needs a lot of prayer!

There has been a lot of opposition and hang ups (but not set backs) in preparing for this. The flight traffic controllers at the Swaziland airport are on strike so we have to pick the team up in Johannesburg. This will delay the arrival of the team in Swaziland because of the long drive and the boarder crossing. South Africa is having an electrical crises and Swaziland depends on South Africa for all its electricity. In the news it said that South Africa may cut off the countries it supplies to conserve for itself. We pray this doesn't happen because to have an event like this requires a lot of electricity. I play guitar on the worship team and I fell and cracked my wrist. I'm praying the cast can come off in three weeks, which is the day before the event.

We know God is really going to use this celebration for His glory and His kingdom and we have seen God working miracles already. The plan is to have a three day celebration, but we were only given one with the first park we wanted, but we can see God's hand in putting us in the right spot. We spent a week trying to get another answer with the Jubilee Park after the first refusal and still the city council wouldn't give it to us. We got the impression they were wairing for a bribe but that's not an option for us. We tried another park and, although we didn't get to the office before it closed, the manager came to see us, asked a few questions, and in a half an hour everything was secured for the Millennium Park for the three days we want it for. The manager never even hinted for a bribe. Nothing like that happens around here without bribing. This was all God!

Prayer Requests:

Please pray for the team's safe arrival and that all the equipment they are bringing arrives with them. For the people involved and that final details will fall into place. For the people that will come; that lives will be changed. That God will bring multitudes to hear the Good News.

Reminder:

I leave Swaziland on March 13 to begin my home ministries. I still have many openings and, if it can be worked out, would love to speak at your church in a service, small group, or to your church board to share about the work in Swaziland. If you are interested you can contact me.

Thank you so much for your prayers and I hope to see you when I get back to North America.

A Merry Christmas!

2007-12-29T05:14:00.001-04:00

A merry Christmas and a happy new year!

I hope this finds you with joyful memories from the past week spent with friends and family, remembering and celebrating the birth of our Saviour.

December has been a month of new experiences. For me it started out with the experiences of having tick bite fever and my first hospital stay. It took a little over a week after being released from the hospital to get my energy and strength back, but now it is only a memory and I never wish to go through that again.

Once I was well it was time to get ready for Christmas. This was my first Christmas away from home. It was a good one with many people around and a lot of food. On Christmas Eve the missionaries got together for supper and afterwards exchanged gifts, sang songs, and then went caroling around campus.

The Cox's invited me to stay the night at their house so I could spend Christmas morning with them. Eunice read the Christmas story from Luke 2 and then we opened gifts from each other and those sent from home. For lunch the foreigners on campus, which included missionaries and the Toga family from Liberia, got together for a feast. It was a mix of American and African Christmas meals. We had turkey and mashed potato along with curry rice and impala. We spent the whole day together enjoying the sunshine, the company, and the reason for the celebration. Although we all missed friends and family back home, we are thankful for our "family" here.

While awaiting Christmas day, some of us got to celebrate Christmas early. This was the second Christmas for the Children's Home and the Manzini Christian Community Church threw them a party. The church, as well as the district leadership, gathered at the Children's Home for some singing, gift giving, and food. It was a great time of fellowship.

Not only was it fun to see the children opening their gifts, but the preparation, I think, was the best part. Two days before the party Eunice, Fikile, and I took the children shopping for new outfits. It was great to see the excitement on the kid's faces as we walked into the mall. They had never had new clothes before, let alone gone shopping for them. Their wide eyes gazed everywhere, trying to take everything in, while still trying to decide what clothes to choose. On the way back home we stopped for a rare treat. The children's faces were covered in vanilla ice cream, but that just served to highlight the huge smiles on their faces. Because there are 13 children at the home, we had to split them up and take them in two trips so we got to do it twice; a double blessing! The store where we shopped at also donated some left over stock and so we were able to surprise Mrs. Thwala, the Director of the Children's Home, with some unexpected gifts. It really is more blessed to give than to receive!!

We spend this time of year celebrating the birth of Jesus, God's gift of love to us. We do this by giving gifts of love to others, especially during this season. Even the smallest action can let someone know God loves them. Thank you for your gift of support and prayers. It may seem like little, but God multiplies what we offer to Him.

Please pray for the Swaziland youth. A group of them are leaving for Mozambique for a week long missions trip. This is the first of its kind from the district. Pray for protection, good health for everyone, and that God will work in the lives of the youth going the people they work with. Pray that this will light a fire in their hearts!

May God bless you and keep you safe during this festive season!

Graduation Month

2007-12-10T08:16:00.001-04:00

You may be wondering why the November update was posted late. I'm just getting a chance to email now because I have been sick. Last week I came down with typhus (known here as tick bite fever). It's very painful, but easily treatable. The Cox's have opened their home to me during this time and took very good care of me. I'm still in bed and very weak, but doing much better.

Mid last week I thought was getting better, but that night I was back in bed feeling worse again. This past Wednesday I went back to the doctor because I should have been better and I now had a rash. He did some blood tests and found that the infection level was the same then as it was 6 days prior when I was first tested. At that he decided to admit me so I could get IV antibiotics along with the ones I was already taking. This was my first hospital experience with me being the patient. It was a trying time but I really felt people's prayers.

Now I have had two better days in a row and was released from the hospital Sunday afternoon. I'm on two kinds of antibiotics until Friday, but I'm praying it's up hill from here. I still have to be careful not to overdo things and tire easily, but little by little my strength will return. Please pray for my continued recovery and that I will have my strength back very soon. Thank you again for lifting me up in prayer, especially during this time!

So what happened in November? Well, the month started off with a bang with the Emmanuel Wesleyan Bible College graduation. We had 8 graduates this year: 3 Bachelor of Theology degrees (4 years), 4 diplomas (3 years), and 1 certificate (1 year) were awarded. Graduation is always an exciting time as we send our graduates to many different places. This year we had graduates from Zambia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Liberia, and of course Swaziland. Kingdom work is being done and the message is going all over Africa.

After the college closes for the summer things slow down some and campus gets very quiet. This is nice for a week or so and then we are wanting the students to come back and look forward to the coming school year. However, before that happens there are some things to celebrate. Being the only Canadian in the bunch we celebrated American Thanksgiving with some fellow missionaries from South Africa and look forward to Christmas and New Years. We are all family here on campus and although we miss friends and family back home, it's great getting together for any occasion for which we can make an excuse to do so.

Something neat that happened this month was the surprise of little chameleons. Trevor was given a chameleon at the beginning of the year by some of his Swazi friends. Well, it turned out to be very pregnant so they got a bucket of sand to lay its eggs in. It takes over 200 days for the eggs to hatch and we had all kind of given up on them, but just before they were going to throw the sand away, there were two little chameleons near the top of the bucket. You can see their size from the picture. A couple days later there was a third one. We really don't know how many there will be, but chameleons can lay up to 40 or 50 eggs. God's creation never ceases to amaze me.

God Is Working!

2007-11-06T07:55:00.001-04:00

This month has been very busy with two teams and a weekend in Mozambique. The first team on the month was from the Collin Creek Community Church in Plano, Texas. They came to plan and make arrangements for a team from their church to come in February to do the opening week at EWBC and also a 3-night event for the Wesleyan churches in Manzini. They are sending a worship team and band, along with technicians, that will join with us in Swaziland to make this event possible. It's still in the planning stages, but we are very excited for it. However, February is not that far away and there is much to be done. We really need your prayers for this as everything unfolds and falls into place. We need God to go before us and work out the details. Also, anyone who has been in Africa would know that things don't always go as we North Americans would like them to go.

While they were here, the Collin Creek team led the service at the Manzini Christian Community Church. The worship teams spent the morning together teaching each other songs and our worship team also saw a different way of doing songs and leading worship. This was very beneficial because we are trying to do something different in order to reach city people. We are working on a sound for our songs that is contemporary and yet still Swazi. This time also gave our teams a small glimpse of how things will go in February, what to expect from each side, and a chance to practice some of the songs we might do, which made us very excited for the Collin Creek team to return early next year.

The second team was from the Atlantic District and headed by Dr. H.C. Wilson. They were here doing a pastors' seminar. It was a good time. There was teaching on mentoring and forgiveness and a lot of interaction and discussion with the pastors. I believe there was much that was taken from this time and the impact will reach beyond the pastors who attended. This team was also here for the EWBC graduation. Dr. Wilson was the guest speaker and there were 8 graduates in total. Please pray for these graduates as they begin their ministries and share with the people things they have learned at Bible College.

Between the two teams we were in Mozambique for their national conference. This was my first conference so everything was a new experience for me. The official language for Mozambique is Portuguese and since the area we were in is mostly Shangaan everything was translated. Then add some missionaries from Swaziland who don't know either and you have it being translated a second time. Needless to say it was very long, but we heard what was happening in Mozambique as well as some first-hand testimonies of what God has done in Northern Mozambique. One man shared his recent testimony of how he was demon possessed and his village had him bound in stocks around his ankles for so long, because he was dangerous and nothing else could contain him, that the flesh was gone where the stocks were. His brother took him to the Jesus Film team to be prayed over and God drove out the demons and as the team was praying the flesh grew back on his legs. This man then went back to his village where the Jesus film was shown. The people accepted Jesus because of the change in this man's life and they saw Jesus do the same thing in the film. That man is now the pastor of the church in that village.

God is doing amazing things in Mozambique and in other parts of Africa. I feel honoured and humbled to think that God has chosen us to be a part of His work when He can do such amazing things and doesn't need our help.

Swazi Culture 101

2007-09-27T11:09:00.000-03:00

In the Swazi language the name for the month of September is Inyoni (a special bird mates). Spring is here. The jacaranda trees are flowering, it has rained most of the week, and things will begin to turn green once again. Spring is a time of beginnings and though I've been here for a while I am frequently remind that I am just beginning to learn the language and culture.

While a work team was here early in the month, we had an opportunity to go and visit the chief. We had a short service and took some food for lunch. While we were waiting for lunch to be ready, because you can only take uncooked food for the chief and it is prepared by his family, the chief showed us around is residence. It was a privilege to be taken inside the traditional hut (much like the one in the picture below) where counsel meetings are held and the like. The men entered first through the little door and when I went in I couldn't see a place to sit because it was dark inside. I was told to come inside so I went straight in to first empty spot I found (error #1). I was quickly motioned to another spot and soon I found out that women sat on the other side behind where the men were sitting. After we were all seated, the chief started explaining the customs within the hut. The center of the hut is sacred and is where the fire is built. Needless to say, you don't walk through it (error #2). To add to things there was a lady from the team with us that was looking to me to know what to do and I inadvertently led her astray. It was definitely a time for learning culture. I'm thankful that Swazis are gracious people and were not offended by my ignorance.

One exciting beginning for me happened this month. Just a couple weeks ago I received a letter from Global Partners saying that I had been appointed as a career missionary to Swaziland. This means that I will return home in March for a year so I can share with people personally what God has been doing here in Swaziland and to fund raise for a four-year term (at least) on the field. I am now in the process of coordinating my visits so if you would like to hear first hand what has been happening here just let me know. Thank you again for your prayers and support! I hope you will consider continuing to be part of the ministry here in Swaziland.

Random thought: Because a giraffe is vulnerable when it is drinking, another giraffe will stand guard.

Breakthroughs in Our Church

2007-09-06T16:08:00.000-03:00

Some exciting things have been happening here during the past couple of months. We praise the Lord for the formation of another home cell/Bible study. It consistently has around 7 people; men and women. Spirits are up and people are talking about Bible study. These are not only times for learning, but also for fellowship and the strengthening of friendships. We are now trying to identify other areas where we might start another Bible study. Thank you so much for your prayers!

Our services just got a little more exciting as well. We now have a full time (volunteer) keyboard player and so we have added an acoustic guitar to our worship band. We also have picked up two new members for our worship team. This really helps with sharing the work load for getting ready for services and the extra voices and instrument help greatly with the sound.

The Women of Excellence had a wonderful time of fellowship together at the Mlilwane Game Reserve just a couple of weeks ago. Although we planned activities along with the picnic, we didn't do anything we planned to because some wart hogs and an ostrich came walking through the center of our game. This became quite interesting. Many of the ladies had never even seen these things before. After lunch we just sat around and talked and the ladies started opening up about some issues they're facing. This time of fellowship has helped to break down walls and allowed us to get to know each other better. Ministry can happen even when you don't "plan" on doing it. My favorite part of the day was the ride home in the van. We sang and laughed the whole way as we dropped people off. This was the most relaxed I have seen everyone. It was a great time had by all!

The Presque Isle Wesleyan Church sent a work team to help build the new offices for World Hope Swaziland, which also doubles as the Fortress; a counselling center for abused women. Pastor Rick Kavanaugh gave a 2-day leadership training. It was very helpful and I believe everyone learned a lot from the teaching. We praise God for their investment Swaziland and their friendship!

We want to thank you for partnering with us in prayer and we eagerly await what the Lord is still going to do in and through the ministry of Manzini Christian Community Church. We believe there are more exciting things yet to come.

Visitors

2007-07-02T05:48:00.000-03:00

I bring you greetings once again from a tiny Kingdom in southern Africa. Despite the size of the country, there have been many visitors come to see it and meet the people. One special visitor being my mother. She traveled down with a team from the Atlantic District who were heading from Mozambique. I met them in South Africa and everyone came to Swaziland for the weekend. Then while the rest of the team continued on to Mozambique, my mother stayed with me and did ministry here for a week before we meet the team in Mozambique for the second week.

We had a great time and I tried to introduce her to everyone I know and show her everything I could. Mom taught my lady's Bible study how to knit and they caught on very fast. They still show me what they are doing and tease me about mine because I am a terrible knitter. That Wednesday evening Mom also gave the lesson for Bible study and did a very good job.

During the day she got to see the country from one side to the other. We went to the children's home just down from where I live and did a craft with the children. Mom also had balloons with her and they had the most fun with those. There were balloons flying everywhere. If the balloons broke, the older boys would collect the pieces and later use them to make other toys.

Many people had made and/or donated things for Mom to bring to give out to people. One stop we made was at the World Hope Swaziland feeding station for widows and orphans. The money donated was given to World Hope Swaziland and some of it was used to pay the workers at the feeding station who volunteer their services. The rest will be used for things such as food and school supplies.

The children at the feeding station were excited to see us. They get a little bit of teaching there and they recited things they have learned. Then we had to look at everyone's workbooks. They were all so proud of their work. Next we passed out a hat, pair of gloves and slippers to each child and worker. They were so happy to receive these things. There was dancing and singing all over. It was the same response from my Bible study when we gave the same items for the ladies and their children. We also left the frisbees and other toys with the workers for the children to play with when they come. Thank you so much for your generosity and hard work knitting the items! You brought huge smiles to these people's faces and I can't fully convey their gratitude.

In two weeks we were in 3 different countries so Mom had a very diverse experience. I really enjoyed her visit and I know she went back home changed.

One thing Mom was hoping to see while she was here was the new addition to Pastor Jim and Fikile Machuku's family. However, this did not happen. On June 7, the night Mom flew home, Caleb Nkosiyasi Machuku made his way into this world weighing 4.5kg (almost 10 lb.). Both mother and baby are doing fine and I have never seen Pastor Jim so proud. Caleb makes his first visit to church this week and everyone is eager to see him.

Prayer Request: Please pray for the Manzini Christian Community Church. We are in the process of starting up small groups within the church and need leaders for these groups. Also we are wanting to start another ladies' Bible study where we have another concentration of women. Interest has been expressed by some ladies in that area so we are working on that. The women's Bible study that we have running now is getting self sufficient so we are continuing to work towards that so our focus can be placed on this new Bible study.

Lessons in Culture

2007-06-08T07:02:00.000-03:00

May has been an interesting month full of fun and learning. While the Bethany Bible College and Indiana Wesleyan University team was here we spent a good part of the time out in the bush. The mornings were spent doing home visitation and the afternoons playing with children and having services. Each day the team did a craft and acted out a Bible story. It was really neat to see the children's faces watching the stories and to see the coming wearing the craft they made each day. Each day there were more and more people at the field waiting for us when we got there. We built relationships and friendships and saw many people come to the Lord. It was a very good experience for all; hearts and lives were change, in both our group and the people we met.

One thing I have figured out about culture is that you can ask as many questions as you want, but the best way to learn it is to jump in and watch the people you are with. This was very useful during home visitation. We drove into the bush, parked our vehicles and started walking down foot paths and dirt roads to find homesteads. Since we were so far from the city it was more important that we do as much of Swazi culture as we could so that we didn't offend and get in the way of the message we were presenting. The things seemed little and insignificant, but any effort we put forth was greatly appreciated. Being a women from North America sometimes it's hard to except some things, like the men get chairs and the women sit on mats on the ground/floor, but since I'm Swazi now I have to get past those feelings to reach the people where they're at.

Another experience that taught me much about Swazi culture happened just last week. Rick Cox got word that a delegation from the chief was coming to his house Tuesday evening. After telling a few Swazi friends about this, we learned that it was a big thing. It is an honor to have them come to your house because they represent the chief. We wanted these people to be as comfortable as possible so we tried to do everything as Swazi as we could. With the counsel of our friends we learned each "part" we were supposed to "play". In Swazi culture the men sit at the table while the women and children sit on the floor or elsewhere, only married people are considered adults no matter how old the person may be, and you send a gift to the chief to show gratitude and respect. It was an interesting night and each person had different duties depending on age and status in the family. I went around with a picture of soapy water and washed everyone's hands because I was the only single girl. I think I learned more about Swazi culture because of that night than I have in a whole month. The people said they were very humbled and had some stories to tell when they left. They also couldn't wait to give the chief his gift (a fuzzy blanket) and took it straight to him. I think they had a good report to give him.

This sums up 3 weeks of this month. This past week will be included in next months update because my mother is here visiting and doing ministry until next Thursday. We are having a good time, but staying very busy so I must close for now.

Exciting Days

2007-05-05T08:20:00.000-03:00

Now I realize that hot and cold are relative terms. Just the other evening it was down, yes down, to 18C and we were putting sweaters on. Winter is on it's way and I find it funny how quickly I have climatized. I'm thankful, however, despite feeling cold. It is still better than anything old man winter throws at you up north.

This month has been quite busy, but some very exciting things have happened. We had a work team from Australia here for a couple of weeks working on the duplex for missionary housing. They worked really hard and gave us a great start on the project. It was fun getting to know those on the team and learning a little of their culture. We are speak the same language, but we are from very different cultures.

Our Women of Excellence Bible study is now going full swing. We meet every Wednesday evening and for the past couple of weeks we have had 4 new ladies attending. We meet at one of the ladies' place; a one-room rented space in a long building with about 10 rooms on either side. We squeeze into it and are thankful it has been opened up to us. The 4 new ladies are from a similar flat close by. They heard about us and now want to join us. Each week we have our discussion/Bible study and a memory verse. Many of our ladies are baby Christians or not yet Christians and they are eager to learn. For some, the memory verses are the only scripture they know. Many of them do not even have Bibles. We have a great time of fellowship and on Sundays they talked about it.

One of our ladies' husband was an alcoholic and was hardly ever at home and didn't help with the children. He just spent his time out with his buddies after work. About 2 weeks ago he got saved and quit drinking; cold turkey. After going through withdrawal, he continues to stay away from alcohol and his friends. This past Wednesday the lady showed up without her children, something that she has never done before. We asked her about it and she happily explained to us that they children were home with their father. We celebrate with her for the change in her husband and we continue to pray for the husbands of the women in our church. We believe that someday we will see them come to Christ like this man has done.

This past Sunday was friend day at our church. The church planting class did outreach and home visitation in preparation for it and many people were invited. When Sunday arrived we had 88 in attendance, the most we have ever had since we opened last year. Following the service we had refreshments and a time to get to know our visitors. It was an exciting time. We used our new keyboard and speakers for the first, but even more exciting was the alter call at the end of the service: 23 renewed their commitment to serving the Lord, 13 want to join the church, and to top it all off... 5 new decisions for Christ! Praise the Lord!! Pray for these people and their lasting commitments.

This week things continue as they have been. A team consisting of Bethany Bible College and Indiana Wesleyan University students arrives today for 2 1/2 weeks. This is a ministry team and we will be helping out a new church plant with children's programs and home visitation. Pray that people will be receptive to what we have to share with them and that lots of children will show up for VBS.

On the 26 of this month my mom arrives with a team going to Mozambique from the Atlantic district. My mother will be staying with me in Swaziland and then traveling home with the same team at the end of 2 weeks. I am very excited for her arrival and have many ministry opportunities planned for her as well as showing her around Swaziland and introducing her to all my friends. Please pray for safe travels for both teams and that lives will be impacted, on both sides of the equation, while they are here.

Women of Excellence

2007-04-06T10:23:00.000-03:00

Greetings once again from a foreign place and yet not so foreign. I guess it's all your perspective on things. Some differences are skin colour, language, and the side of the road we drive on, but the similarities are what bring us together. People are friendly, warm and gracious to new comers, they take pride in where they come from, we all need friends and family, Bible College students discuss spiritual matters and cynicism over lunch and they still wait until the last minute to do their assignments, but most importantly, we are brothers and sisters in Christ. It's that bond that puts all differences aside.

I am discussing this topic because of some experiences I had this past month. The Women of Excellence had a ministry day a couple of weekends ago and we went to the children's home with the intentions of cleaning, cooking and playing with the children to give the "Aunt" (care-giver) a day off. It was a great day. I enjoy these meetings not only because of what we are doing but because it gives me a chance to work on an equal level with the ladies from my church and I get to know them a little better. During these times we are all the same. Often in ministry the missionary is in some role which gives the appearance of being above the others; not in attitude necessarily, but by nature of the position in the work being done (ei. teacher/student relationship). However, this day no one was teaching, no one was preaching, we were just doing ordinary, every day things to bless someone. If anything, the ladies taught me about cooking. I enjoy these moments because they are purely relationship building.

It was mentioned in our meeting afterwards that we needed to have a regular Bible study because some ladies are young Christians and other aren't even saved. We worked out the details and this past Wednesday evening we had our first meeting at one lady's home, a one room flat. On our way there we got a little lost in the maze of dirt roads and almost got stuck in the mud. It also didn't help that it was raining cats and dogs and almost pitch black because in that area there are no street lights and many people don't have electricity. Once we finally arrived, the meeting began as usual with a worship song and prayer. Our pastor's wife, Fikile, lead the study, going on the theme of being a woman of excellence; letting people see Christ in you through everything you do. It was a challenging study and everyone participated in the discussion: questions answered and being asked. I even attempted to participate with my siSwati English, as Swazis call it. Everything was in siSwati, but Fikile translated for me when I didn't understand something. It was an encouraging time. These ladies really want to learn how to live and grow in Christ. I look forward to the weeks to follow and growing together with everyone.

Dave and Pat Taylor made it safely back to Canada and are doing much better. Their next step is praying and waiting on God for what they are supposed to do now. Please pray for their continued healing and their wisdom in discerning God's will for them.

This coming week is our missionary retreat in South Africa. It will be a time of fellowship with missionaries from all over the Southern African region, which is from Zambia down. It will also be a time of hearing what is happening all over Africa, plus a time of relaxation. Prayer for everyone as they travel, some long distances, and that this would be a good time of newel for all of us.

Another Traumatic Event

2007-03-17T13:49:00.000-03:00

I wish I could say that all was well in Swaziland, but I can't. Indeed it is better for some than others, unfortunately I bring some not-so-happy news after talking with Dave and Pat Taylor this morning. About 2 am this past Monday morning the same two men, that broke into the Taylor's house, ransacked it and tried to kill Dave about 2 1/2 weeks ago, returned for another round. They broke through the security bars on the office window and cleaned out what was accessable. Then being unable to get to the rest of the house because of a new security gate in the hallway, the men went back outside and came in through the security bars in the spare bedroom window. Their second entry woke the Taylors up and Dave looked through the keyhole in the door and saw a shadow. At that he told Pat to phone the neighbours for help and he no sooner got his shoulder to the door when the men, using a crowbar, tried to get into their bedroom. Both of them screamed as much as they could for help and when the men couldn't get in, they gave up and ran off.

The Taylors were just dealing with the first traumatic situation and now have another one on top. At this they have packed what possessions they have left and are flying for Canada tomorrow morning (March 15). How can one feel safe in their own home after all this and with those men still on the loose. No one can blame them for this, but it hurts to see them go under such conditions. They need our prayers now more than ever before. Thank you for praying for them these past few weeks and thank you for continuing to lift them up in prayer. Pray for speedy healing from emotional wounds and also pray for safe flights/travels. I forwarded notes I received about people praying for them and they were encouraged by the number of
people praying for them.

off to a good start

2007-03-01T14:32:00.000-04:00

The school year got off to a very good start and we have now finished our first month. Our guest speaker for the opening
Holiness Advancement Week was Rev. John Croft. He presented holiness to us in a way that was practical and seemed more attainable than most people think. I don't believe anyone went away not challenged. We are also excited to have 5 new students with us and the possibility of 3 more still on their way. Our classes run in 3 week modules so it is easy for someone to come part way through the semester. We are praying and trusting that God will make the way for these students to come

This past weekend I had the privilege of being part of a group from the college that travelled to a leadership conference in South Africa. It was a great weekend and the people in Casteel district were wonderful hosts. One thing that was needed for the weekend was something that is always needed on the mission field: flexibility. We went with the knowledge that we had one evening service to promote the college. When we arrived we soon learned that we were to do much more than that. About the time the service Friday evening was scheduled to start I was asked to drive to a house nearby and pick up the keyboard and sound system. That was also about the time we were informed that we were leading worship, but tomorrow there would be the usual worship team. All the services throughout the conference were much the same and the promised worship team ever showed up. We did well and had a good time. I am proud of the group of students for their willingness to do all that was asked of themIt rained almost the whole way home on Sunday and we passed 3 accidents. Once the sun finally began to break through the clouds we had a rainbow beside us the remainder of our journey. It just helped to remind me of the promises of God in keeping us safe and providing for us during the weekend.

Now that the Cox family is back on the field my job description is changing somewhat. I will now be giving one day to the school a week for library and any thing I can work on for them while in the library, plus I will still be the registrar and English teacher. The rest of my time will be helping Rick Cox. There are a lot of things he is developing where he is just starting his new position of Director of the Southern African region and it requires a lot of typing and technical stuff... that's where I come in. I will also be helping with work teams; in preparation and while they're here. This change will also involve some traveling throughout the Southern African region and will get me out in the community more. I look forward to the change, but also pray for the strength and courage to do my job as some of things I will do are out of my comfort zone.

Thank you so much for the tremendous response about people praying for David and Pat Taylor. They have really felt the affects of your prayers and appreciate them very much. I will keep you updated on how they are doing as things come. Please continue to pray for them and also for the safety of all the missionaries here in Swaziland. Thank you!!

Prayer Needed!

2007-02-20T16:08:00.000-04:00

Please pray for Dave & Pat Taylor. He used to teach at Bethany Bible College and they are both dear friends of mine. They are now missionaries here in Swaziland and live only 30 minutes away. Two men broke into their house last Friday night, ransacked it, and took everything of any value, right down to his tennis shoes. This whole thing took about a half an hour. They hacked Doc with a bush knife in the head and neck, knocking him unconscious, then the men grabbed Pat and demanded money, cell phone, etc. with a threat to her life made with each. The Taylor's think that the men thought they had killed Doc and kept threatening to do to Pat what they did to him. When they left, Doc had come to and ran next door for help.

Physically they are both doing fine and thankful to be alive, but they are very traumatized and afraid to go back to their house. They will get through this, but it will take a lot of time and prayer to deal with everything and get back to normal life.

We made it!

2007-02-01T10:44:00.000-04:00

The Machuku's and I arrived safe and sound Tuesday afternoon your time. I'm sorry to not write until now, but I've had some trouble setting up my computer for dial up internet. Thank you for your prayers. We had an uneventful trip (something you want when flying). The 15 hour flight from Washington DC was the best flight I have ever had. There were individual, touch screen TV's for everyone. I watched 2 movies after we took off, had supper, then went to sleep. I was in the center section and had 2 empty seats between the lady beside me. I noticed that she was sleeping and not taking advantage of the seat so I did. I laid down across the 3 seats and slept for 8 hours. I woke up at the breakfast announcement and watched a movie while I ate. Before the movie was over we had landed. There was also an option to watch from the camera which was at the top of the tail of the plane and looked down on the plane so I watched us land. It was really neat. The Machuku's didn't have as good a time as I did sleeping, but they did have one empty seat beside them and were fairly comfortable.

The weather here hasn't been that bad since we arrived, but today is a bit on the hot side. It has been overcast so I think it was a nice 80 degrees. Today I think it's much higher, but I don't have a thermometer so I'm only guessing. It won't be long before it starts cooling down. At least we're not freezing to death, however today Jim said he'd like to go back from where he just came from.

We just about hit the ground running. We had one day of rest and today we started getting ready for a new school year to begin. Students arrive this weekend and everything is up and running this coming Tuesday. We look forward to a new year and there is the possibility we might have 13 new students. We are praying that everyone we know about will be able to make it and that God will surprise us with more.

Back to Swaziland

2007-01-28T10:08:00.000-04:00

Christmas has come and gone and now it's time for me to head back to Swaziland for another year. I fly out from Bangor on Monday at 7am and arrive in Swaziland at 6pm on Tuesday. I will be travelling back with two African friends of mine who have been visiting and speaking at various churches for the past two weeks. We are all looking forward to getting back to friends, and for my traveling partners family, and to some (a lot) warmer weather. Please pray for safety as we travel.

Fund Raiser Auction

2006-12-08T20:31:00.000-04:00

I want to thank everyone who donor baked goodies, helped out at the auction, and those who came to buy things. It was a success and raised enough money for my ticket back to Swaziland. Thank you so much!!

Coming to You From Canada

2006-12-08T20:28:00.000-04:00

I hope everyone is coping with the weather many of us have been getting lately. I am adjusting, finally, to the lower temperatures. Christmas is just around the corner and I am thankful to be able to be home visiting for the holidays.

As you know I am home until January and busy preparing to return to Swaziland for another year. One of the things I have to do is make sure my finances are in order, meaning having enough faith promises from sponsors to ensure I will be able to fulfill the length of my contract. This can be done simply by emailing me about your pledge. By doing so I can show Global Partners that I have adequate support and you make it possible for me to return at the appointed time in the new year. Thank you very much for your cooperation and support. I couldn't do this without you.

Tradition

2006-10-30T14:08:00.000-04:00

October has been a very busy month, but an interesting one as well. I now have a piano student, Fikile and I went to Xai Xai, Mocambique as representatives of EWBC at their Bible College graduation, and this week there is a pastor's seminar leading up to our graduation on Sunday. Please pray this week for all the activities going on, marking the end of our school year. We have pastors coming from all over southern Africa. Many of them have to travel far and this will be their first time at the college. We are also sending out 6 graduates into the ministry and many of them already have churches waiting for their arrival. Pray for everyone's safety and a passion to further the Kingdom when they leave here.

This past Saturday I had the opportunity to attend a traditional wedding of a member of the royal family. I was invited to go by a co-worker and he told me some things I could expect, but there were stills parts that couldn't be planned for. Needless to say I have a few stories to tell.

The particular day we attended was only the dancing part of the wedding; negotiations nad payment happened in days prior and feasting and gift giving was the next day. Family members of the bride danced in and the bride rapped her crying mother in a blanket. Then there was a series of different dances consisting of different groups of the party. Every now and then the groom, who was seated beside the King, danced down and joined his bride for a dance. Near the end some women danced down and tucked money into the bride's outfit. This was to help the new couple out. This whole thing took about 3 hours and the party never stopped dancing. There were lots of symbolic things, but no one I know could tell me what they meant. It's a sad thing, but it is getting so that only the older people know about the Swazi tradition and to younger people it is just something you do on special occasions.

Because the groom is part of the royal family there were lots of important people around. A photographer was talking with me because he saw my camera and my friend said to go with him; not knowing when I went that I was getting the privilege of going with the journalists and have the freedom to go anywhere to get the pictures I wanted. I was right up there when the King arrived.

Since the King and other such people were there, so was the media. I eventually ended up standing beside the wedding party. While everything was going on I was standing there, minding my own business, observing everything when this warrior came running across the field, bent down, threw his spear and shield on the ground at my feet, shouted something at me in siSwati, which I didn't understand, then ran off. One of the reporters/camera men came over and asked if I knew what that meant. He said the guy was proposing (Unfortunately he ran off before I could answer him and now I may (hopefully) never see him again... lol). So while I'm still trying to take it in and in the "Oh" stage, the other reporter sticks a camera in my face and starts interviewing me. "So how do you feel about what just happened." "Uh, I don't know." etc. Turns out they got the whole thing on tape and I was on Swazi TV that night. I didn't get to see it, but people have been telling me they saw me on the news. I'm sure it was entertaining to watch. I would have liked to see the look on my face.

Fun in the Sun

2006-10-30T14:01:00.000-04:00

Dispite everything going on right now Fikile and I managed to have a short vacation this past weekend. It was great! We didn't have to be anywhere, got lots of sun (too much sun actually...ouch!), relaxed on golden beaches with warm ocean water. Oh, but it was over too soon... sigh! In reality we did have a mission. We went as representatives of EWBC to the Xai Xai Bible College in Mocambique. Xai Xai proudly sent out 16 graduates into the ministry throughout Mocambique, but we were able to have a few extra days for fellowship with friends and relaxing at the beach.

Women of Excellence

2006-10-02T14:50:00.000-03:00

Thank you so very much for praying for the activities this past month. It was very busy, but we saw many wonderful things happen. There was a good turn out for the prayer summit and we all learned so much about how to pray and things to pray for. We also had some great times worshiping together throughout it.

The keyboard lessons went very well and now they want to know when I'm coming back to teach more. I don't know when that will happen, but I'm glad they enjoyed it as much as I did. I had 9 students and most of them caught on very quickly. They told me that they wanted to play keyboard in their different churches. By what I observed in the students, I imagine the keyboards are getting a lot of use now.

The women's gathering was a huge success. We didn't have a large number of women (about 10), but that was not what we were going for this time. We invited the women of the church and our home cell in a nearby town to come to EWBC for a braii (cook out) and fellowship. We had a great time with lots of games, music, food and laughter. The goal was to get to know the ladies in the church better and I think we accomplished that goal. The entire day was in siSwati so it was challenging and tiring for me, but it made it less intimidating for the rest, helped me learn/practice the language, and in turn helped to break down barriers between us. We also took some time to discuss things that we can do to reach out to our communities and also minister to each other. We are planning to have bible studies, fun outings, and outreach days. We call ourselves the "Women of Excellence" because as Christian women we want to do everything to the best of our abilities for the glory of God. We wish to leave a mark everywhere with everything we do so that people will wonder what makes us different from others. Then doors will be opened to share with people we are helping and reaching out to. We talked about issues of abuse and HIV/AIDS and how we can minister to people affected by these. The following day at church the women ran the service. Mrs. Thwala, director of World Hope Swaziland, was the speaker and gave a powerful message on how special women are. It was very encouraging and helped to show us that our rolls are important and we are just as special as the men. In a culture where women don't have the same kind of freedom as we do in North America this may have been the first for some women to hear that.

This coming month raps up the semester and the school year. It's full of grading papers and preparing for graduation which happens on Sunday, November 5. We have had a good school year and we will finish well.

The Reed Dance

2006-09-16T11:47:00.000-03:00

The Reed Dance is a cultural event, in late August or September, for girls from age 10 to 19 although younger girls join in the dancing. It is to celebrate their virginity (and also the king can pick another wife if he chooses). There were around 30,000 girls in the week long event. It was quite something to see that many in such colourful dress (if you can call that a dress). Everything the girls wear and carry has a specific meaning. The red feathers in their hair mean they are related to the king. The more feathers there are the closer the person is related.

The girls gather in groups and all dance and sing in front of the king. With around 30,000 girls that took a long time. Afterwards they all line up together, still singing and dancing, then the king and other warriors in traditional dress run through the huge group to encourage the girls in there dancing.

Emmanuel Wesleyan Bible College

2006-09-07T05:45:00.000-03:00

Another month has gone by and we are half way through our second semester. Last weekend was the Swaziland District Conference. A highlight of the district conference is the Mali Hambe offering. Directly translated is means to "let go". They list every Wesleyan church in Swaziland and then call them one by one to come and give an offering that goes to the district. It may sound fairly simple, but this offering can take anywhere from 2 to 3 hours to finish. As a church is called to give a representative of the church takes the microphone and starts a song which then begins a dance of the members, and anyone else wishing to give for that particular church, from the back of the church, around the front to give and then back to their seats. I have been told that people take a lot of coins to the offering, that way they can go dance with the group more than just once for their own church. They keep track of each church's giving and hand out prizes for the highest offering in categories based on the size of the church.

Our church made it on the list just after the offering started and with there only being 4 representatives from our church I was chosen to go lead the song. It was a lot of fun. As soon as I begun singing there were whistles then everyone joined in and many people came up with us to give and dance. As I danced back to my seat the gogo's (grandmothers) patted me on the shoulder as I went by them. Some even joined me dancing for a bit along the way. I don't think I have had any trouble fitting into the music aspect of Swazi culture; however I just wish the other aspects were just as easy to adjust to.

Ann Medders (director of World Hope Canada) was here last week with a couple board members and they also got to experience the Mali Hambe offering. They left this past Sunday and a team of 15 people arrived from the Presque Isle Wesleyan Church arrived the same day. They are here for two weeks and are helping out with kid's camp here on campus, which is going on right now, and also down at the children's home. This church has an interest in the children's home and has invested a lot in it.

September is looking like a very busy month, but I'm looking forward to it. There is the children's camp going on this weekend and everyone is having a great time. There is a prayer summit next weekend. On Sept. 16 I am going to a small community to teach some people from surrounding churches the basics of playing the keyboard and at the end of the month a women's fellowship weekend that our church is planning. We wish to reach out to the women in the community and encourage each other in the Christian walk and with dealing with issues in our every day lives. Please join with us in holding all these things up in prayer.

In the Wesleyan World

2006-08-01T10:37:00.000-03:00

Keep your eye out for this picture. You just might see it somewhere. Thanks to Doc. Taylor for taking it.

A Lesson on Giving

2006-08-01T10:22:00.000-03:00

The month of July has been missions month for the Manzini Christian Community Church. The Fortress Orphanage is the project our church will be supporting for the following year. Pastor Jim has taken this month to teach on the importance of giving to missions and on faith promise giving; pledging more than you can afford and trusting God to provide it. We have had different speakers each week. I have heard many sermons on giving, but there is something about being in Africa and hearing Africans teach about giving. A Zambian pastor once said, "If from nothing you can't give; you won't give from much." It really doesn't matter how much money we have or don't have, God has commanded us to give. By our standards in the West these people don't have very much, but they give anyway.

We are still small and are only 4 months old. Some may say that we need to get on our feet before we start giving to projects outside the church; be established, build your own building, then start giving to missions, but the reality is if we wait until that happens then it will be just as easy to say we need to complete another project before missions comes into the picture and keep putting it off. God blesses a church involved in missions and we want that blessing from the beginning. The church right now has about 15 committed people and we pledged to give R2500/month (roughly $500CAN) to the Fortress. That is really amazing! This is the people giving above their regular tithes and offerings to the church. Some are house wives, some are students, and some are unemployed, but each gives what they can. I have been so blessed and have learned so much from the people in the church.

The attached pictures are of our final missions Sunday. We invited the children from the orphanage and dedicated them to the Lord. We want to be a part of these kid's lives. Our church might be small right now, but we can make an impact on some. The other picture is of the leadership team. We have taken on a couple more volunteers to help with outreach and evangelism. From left to right there is Sam Ngobe (worship team member), Sam Mambwe (evangelism), me (worship team leader), Pastor Jim and Fikile Machuku, Mrs. & Mr. Magongo (evangelism). They are all wonderful people and we work well as a team.

Prayer Requests:

Esther just recently had surgery and everything went well, but now she is having side effects from the surgery. The side effect itself is not serious, but the problem is that because of the sickness that caused the need for surgery she ate very little and lost a lot of weight in a short time. Now, due to the side effects, she can only eat a few bites a day and is very weak. There is progress, but just a little bit at a time. Pray that she will have a speedy recovery. Her heart is here in Swaziland and I know that she is anxious to get back to working with the college.

I need guidance on what to do. I have been asked to do many things such as speaking at youth camps and teaching music lessons in a village 30 minutes east of here, but I am not sure if I have the time or should pick something else up. Pray that God's guidance would be clear to me and that I don't just make a decision based on personal feelings.

Great Things at Ekuhlehleni

2006-07-03T13:33:00.000-03:00

God is doing great things in the church at Ekuhlehleni. God is using converts in winning others to Christ.

There is a man who converted from the Jericho church and through him many lives are being changed in the Ekuhlehleni community. He had a meeting with his relatives to tell them he had given his life to Christ. He told them they must no longer include him and his family in their ancestral worship and practices. He is now preaching against those things. His wife has been testifying that since they have become Christians they are experiencing great peace in their marriage. God has taught them to be faithful to each other.

I have been preaching in the clinic and many people have been responding. One young man has testified, “I did not like the life I was living. I was using drugs such that I thought life would be impossible without drugs. I also hated Christians. I was leading a group of gangsters persecuting Christians and disturbing their meetings until I was arrested. I never thought I would become a Christian. Now I am determined to serve God and tell many people about the love of Christ.”

Another young lady was converted through preaching at the clinic. She said, “Pastor, your sermon has changed my life. I have been a tool of the devil for a very long time. I needed someone to help me find freedom from the life of slavery. I have been living a life of prostitution and disobeying my parents such that they have rejected me. The kids I am having were not in the plan and they have different fathers. Please pray that I may completely find freedom in Christ.”

One older man who was saved through preaching at the clinic testified that he had been a drunkard. Whenever he was drunk, he would abuse his family. His wife now says there in peace in the home. This man is coming to church with his whole family. They live 5 kilometers away, but they travel by foot every Sunday to be in church.

The need of the church right now is a church building. We are worshipping in the district tent which is only going to be here for 3 months. We believe that God will meet the needs of the work here. Please continue to pray for us.

By Bheki Matsenjwa (2005 EWBC Graduate)

Winter Break

2006-07-02T11:57:00.000-03:00

The month of June has been the winter holidays so I have had a chance to rest and do a few different things. I went as photograoher one day to a secondary school with some workers from the Fortress counselling center. They go to schools and talk about abuse, HIV/AIDS and other important issues that, in the past, have not been talked about. They did a very good job. The presentation was about sexual abuse; owning your body and no one else has the right to touch it without your permission. The teens responded very positively and asked many questions. There was good interaction going on the whole time. The school was very open to having us that day and even for them to come back to talk about other issues.

Winter Break (con't)

2006-06-27T13:27:00.000-03:00

Also this month I had a little adventure. I went and stayed at my friend, Bheki's house with a group of Swazis that were there to hold revivals at Bheki's church for the weekend. God is doing amazing things in that church and community. I was only there for one night and it was a really short stay for the amount of effort it took to get there. A group of us hiked up the mountain while some others took the 5 hours drive around to the top. The pictures don't do it justice, but the mountain was high and steep (if you look closely you can see my car beside the boarder gate). I parked/left my car at the boarder gate at the end of the trail. The bottom is Swaziland and the top is South Africa. The walking trail of loose dirt, lots of rock and just wide enough for a donkey to pass most of the time, zig-zagged up the mountain and got steaper as it went on. When Bheki invited me he said it was about an hour hike to the top. What he didn't tell me was that it was another 1 1/2 hour walk to his house after the climb. It was really tough and we stopped many times along the way, but we made it in about 1 hour 15 minutes to the top. The way down was less tiring, but I wondered most of the way if my breaks were going to hold... my knees were shakey.

That night we just sat around playing games... really too tired to do much else. The Swazis were playing a card game called Casino. It was interesting. Bheki was in Swaziland and was with the group that was driving. He was the only one who spoke good English. I watched for quite some time trying to figure out the game and eventually I thought I had enough and asked to play. I couldn't tell anyone else how to play, but I did win a couple of times. I also got to practice my siSwati. If I had to be there a while I think I could get quite good at it.

I had some new expirences on that trip. We stayed on a homestead and did things the Swazi way. Ever tried bathing in a bucket with about 1 1/2 inches of water in it? Well the trick is to keep the water going back into the bucket. I think it's an art... one that I haven't mastered yet... I got water all over the floor.

Those people aren't used to seeing white people and many were afraid of us until we greeted them in their own language. We got a lot of stares, even from the ladies that were helping out around the house. They would be in the kitchen then just open the door, stare a litte, close the door and go back to their work. They don't see many white people there. It's out of the way of everything, very remote, so you basically need a reason to go there. I hope to go back when I can stay longer.

On July 4 the students return so there is still a ton of things to do between now and then. It's been a good break, but I'm ready to have the students back on campus.

A good 5 Weeks

2006-06-08T07:26:00.000-03:00

I am sorry, but I have some bad news. I took both Geisha and Squirt to the vet to be fixed on June 6. Squirt is doing fine and is back to normal, but Geisha never made it off the table alive. The vet said she vomitted and it got into her lungs. She choked on it and stopped breathing. I followed the instructions I was given when I made the appointment about when to stop feeding them, but maybe she got into something when I wasn't looking. Anyway, for whatever reason she's gone. Squirt and I miss her very much. Squirt has been wandering around the house crying and then runs to the door at every noise as if waiting for Geisha to come in. The house is very quiet without her. There was no one to greet me when I got up this morning. I loved Geisha more than Grace. It's been a good 5 weeks.

It's lonely without Geisha around, but Squirt and I are coping. She brought a lot of joy to our lives. She was a great puppy and slightly spoiled. She loved to be held and cuddled. She was great company. I could call her with a whistle from anywhere on campus and she would immediately come running, just as fast as she could. It didn't matter whether I was gone for 5 minutes or for days, she was always just as happy to see me. I don't know if or when I'll get another puppy. Right now my heart couldn't stand to loose another one.

EWBC Promotion

2006-06-02T05:58:00.000-03:00

This month marked the beginning of a huge campaign to promote Emmanuel Wesleyan Bible College. With only 12 students here this year, we are putting a major push to raise awareness of following the "call", whether it is to be an engineer, nurse, or pastor. God has a plan for everyone. There are many districts in Southern Africa that don't even know that EWBC exists or do not support the college by sending students. There is also a mind set that pastors don't need to go to college. The people that are pastoring now are doing a fine job. We are trying to help people understand the need for educated pastors; for them to have Bible study and exegetical skills.

To kick it off was the annual Swaziland Youth Camp. There was an EWBC day where we had games and activities all day, including a brai (camp fire style cookout), and our worship team was in charge of the service that night. As with any youth gathering, the services had a lot of good music and dancing. One of our teachers, James Toga, spoke all week and our vice principle, Beksisa Maziya, translated for him. They did a good job communicating God's word in a way the youth could understand. It was a great time.

We also hope to have representatives at many district conferences, including those in South Africa and Zimbabwe, youth conferences, and any other major event we are able to be at. Please pray for us as we meet people where they're at and help them see the importance of EWBC.

Answered Prayer!

2006-05-26T14:24:00.000-03:00

Praise the Lord! As of today I am legally in the country. My work permit application was finally approved and is now in my possession. Plus, it doesn't expire until 2008 so I can come and go as I please until then. This was a miracle that it came through so quickly after submitting the requested information and not a moment too soon as I have plans to travel to South Africa on Monday. The immigration office even waived the fine for an outdated stamp. That was something like $200CAN min. A huge weight has been lifted. Thank you so much for your prayers! God really worked through them.

Life Lessons

2006-05-26T14:17:00.000-03:00

Culture is a strange thing, but people are the same no matter where you go: they want others to be interested in them. I am learning a lot about culture through my English class, language lessons, and just from hanging out with the students. One thing I learned while here on my internship was that people really appreciate it when you try and learn their language. What I didn't realize was that people lose respect for you if you are here for a long time and still don't know the language. I have heard it said, "If you don't want to speak my language, don't expect me to speak English to you." It's not that people don't want to speak English, but they want things to work both ways. Sometimes the students here get tired of speaking English and take a break from it for a little while.
The students have finally begun to speak siSwati to me so I can learn it faster. I was having an unofficial language lesson and I attempted to make a sentence and got it right. Then they exclaimed, "Very good! You're a big Swazi!" Now, you're probably wondering, "How is that a compliment?" Well, it means I'm 'in', excepted, one of them. For me, as a missionary, that's the goal; to become part of them in order to reach and teach them with the Gospel. I may be teaching pastors to be, but I have to start somewhere. Once I learn the language it will be much easier to do things outside the school where people may not know me. I am half way through my 11th month (in all) living in Swaziland. I'm not Swazi because I can carry things on my head, use the gestures they do (for signs of respect, etc.) or know the culture. I'm Swazi because I speak the language. I definitely have a long way to go and have/will make a fool of myself, but I'm putting forth the effort and really want to learn.
I had my first real conversation in siSwati shortly after that. I have an official language lesson once a week where I ask my tutor any questions I have gathered throughout the week from speaking with other people, church, etc. If I have something particular I want to learn we go over that as well and then I give a report on my homework, which is to chat with two or three people, in siSwati, during the week in order to practice conversation.
To finish off a lesson one day my teacher, Fikile, and I had a conversation. I think I did fairly good. One thing which I find very hard to do is not to think so hard about what to say and what is being said. Fikile had to remind me over and over to just try and piece together the words I know and then come up with a response of what I thought was being said. The first part comes easier than the last, however. I can pick out quite a few words that I understand when I hear them. My biggest problem is taking a long time to respond. I want to process what I think they said and then formulate an answer before I reply. This, in fact, is not in my best interest for language learning. Coming from a person that knows many languages I knew it was true when Fikile gently rebuked me saying, “Do not wait until you are sure because you will never be sure.” This will prove to be my hardest lesson, but yet applicable in so many ways. How much I will miss out on if I live in fear of making a mistake or getting hurt. Missions involves stepping out of what you know into something unknown. Language learning means taking the risk of making a fool of yourself and having people laugh at you.
Christianity demands stepping out of our comfort zones. If we are comfortable where we are as Christians than there is something we could/should be doing. God never said it would be easy, He never said it would be safe; He only said we wouldn't go alone. We may never be sure of the outcome, the full risks involved, or the impact it will have, but when serving where God wants you, you can be sure of His presence and faithfulness to give you the strength and help you need when you need it.
Relationships in themselves involve a measure of risk. There have been a few hard life lessons that I have been learning since arriving in Swaziland. Some I was aware of and am still learning and working on and some have just recently been brought to my attention. Some are dealing with others and some have to do with inner change. Being aware of things will help me to change them.
I don't think Fikile knew how much she would teach me by that one statement: Do not wait until you are sure because you will never be sure, but that one sentence has so much meaning.

Prayer Request:
The Swazi government has made some changes concerning customs and immigration without notice; they did not inform the public or give any prior warning. The price for student visas jumped from R100 to R900 (that's $20 to $180CAN). The price for work permits/visas has doubled in price. I applied for my work permit around 2 1/2 months ago and it has been delayed. Now I have to pay the new price ($240CAN/year), but I just found out yesterday that the officials are saying they need more information about what I'm doing than what is on the application so it is delayed further. When you take in the application you are given a receipt that gives you 30 days in the country as they consider the application. The person looking after all this for me let that sheet expire. Yesterday when he went to try to renew it he was told that they don't do that anymore and that I'm not supposed to be in the country when I apply. This is also new. Now I'm in the country with an expired stamp and that is grounds for trouble at the boarder if the guard chooses.
We need prayer for the students because the jump in price will make it harder on international students and also that we can get my situation cleared up without any more trouble. I am supposed to do some travelling in a couple of weeks so we need this fixed quickly.

Manzini Christian Community Church

2006-05-01T11:46:00.000-03:00

Autumn is has come, things are beginning to turn brown, and relief is here at last and the weather is more consistently around 75 degrees. I'm enjoying it as the students put on winter coats and complain that it's cold out.
Things at the Manzini Christian Community Church are in full swing and going well. This past Sunday was Friendship Sunday and there was a big push in evangelism leading up to that day. Everyone was encouraged to invite their friends and anyone else they come in contact with. The church sent out teams to go house to house and/or speak to people on the street telling them what we are all about and inviting them to the service Sunday afternoon. On Saturdays the church plans to continue to do home visitation/evangelism.
The week leading up Friendship Sunday was busy with preparations and more teams going out in the city. On Saturday, when we had thought we were ready, things changed. Our worship leader got sick and couldn't sing and we couldn't get a hold of the other members of the worship team to work something out. We finally made the decision that I wouldn't play the keyboard as planned, but would lead worship instead.
I had invited my friend, Sibusiso, from the Mahlanye fruit market and she was the first person to show up. I see her almost every week and she gives me good service and good prices on fruit. I don't know if she is a Christian or not. She understands quite a bit of English, but can hardly speak any so we haven't had much of a conversation. It's things like this that make me anxious to be able to converse in siSwati. She did tell the pastor's wife, Fikile, that she enjoyed the service and would love to bring her children. I don't know if she will since she is from far away and would have to travel by bus which costs a bit. Everything went well and we had a good turn out of around 50 people for the service Sunday afternoon. I lead worship and with the wonderful help of my worship team that went well also. However, people were wondering why that white girl was up front and what she was going to do. Each member of the worship team have a turn leading some songs and people were not expecting me lead any songs; let alone songs in Zulu. It was a little unnerving when I started a song in Zulu and they laughed at me, but it was explained to me afterwards that people were just surprised at first and were now impressed that I'm not your average white girl. It was said that I'm a white Swazi. Following the service we had snacks, refreshments, and a good time of fellowship.

Prayer Requests:
Please continue to pray for our church as we are going into an untouched area. Inner city work has not been done at least as far the Wesleyan church in Swaziland is concerned and Satan will try everything in his power to stop that. Thank you for your interest in what we are doing.
Also please pray for me. There have been some times of culture shock, frustration, and loneliness mix in with all that has been happening. Lately I have been having a hard time and need your continued prayers. I am very grateful for your willingness to lift me up in pray and it really does make a huge difference in things.

New Additions

2006-05-01T11:42:00.000-03:00

After a week of severe sickness and paralysis in her hind end I had no choice but to put Grace down. This took place a few weeks ago and the house was a lonely place afterwards so I started looking for another one and found one sooner than I thought I would.
Here are some pictures of the new additions to my family. I adopted them from the Animal Welfare Society in Mbabane. The kitten, Squirt, was the only one to look sideways at us and jumped up against the gate wanting to be patted. I got her a week before my puppy, thinking it would take me a long time to find a dog. The next week I took Squirt back to get her shots and stopped in to see if any puppies had come in because they didn't have any the week before. This time they had all kinds and I ended up getting one of them. After a few days of talking with people and trying to think of a name, everyone agreed that Geisha was a good name. Geisha is a brand of soap here in Swaziland. All the students like her and her name. They all commented on how beautiful she is.
What breed is Geisha? Your guess is as good as mine. She has webbed toes and looks maybe some kind of hunting dog, like yellow lab, and who knows what else. She won't be very big, which will be better for my small apartment. Shes loves to fetch. I bought a squeeky mouse for Squirt who doesn't like it at all, that is until the puppy took a liking to it. You squeeze it and the puppy goes wild. She'll bring it right back to me without having to say anything and drop it in my hand. We're going to work on that so hopefully it won't change. Maybe when she gets bigger I'll teach her how to play frisbee.
Squirt wasn't too thrilled at first about having a sister, but she's over it now... after she got the growling, hissing, and clawing out of her system. Now they play together and both sleep in the bathroom at night, at least until Geisha is completely house trained.

Wet 'n Wild

2006-04-01T09:03:00.000-04:00

In the last month I have had the opportunity to spend some more time with the children from the orphanage just down the hill from the Bible College. A few of weeks ago Katie and I took the children to Hlane Game Reserve. We were supposed to go to Mlilwane Game Reserve where we can also go swimming, but because of heavy rains the roads were washed out too bad that it wasn't open; however we didn't know that until we arrived there.
The usually boring drive through Manzini took on a whole new light with the children in the back seats. From the minute we left their home they were singing, but when we got to the city all you could hear was expressions of amazement and excitement that only children have. They have never seen a city before and were looking everywhere trying to take everything in before it passed by. That day they saw more of their home country than they ever have before. It was so much fun to see the expressions on their faces every time they saw something new.
We decided to turn around and go to Hlane Game Reserve as an alternative. We had a good day and saw many different animals including lions with cubs, a cheetah, and rhinos. These children have never had the chance to see the animals that are native to their own country and they were asking if we were going to see different animals. They also really wanted to go swimming and didn't quite understand that we couldn't. At every water hole we passed they asked if that was where we were going swimming.
After the experience at Hlane, in seeing how much the children wanted to swim, we planned another day out, but didn't tell them where we were going or what we were doing. We picked them up right after church, got their shorts, and told them what we were doing while on the way to Mlilwane Game Reserve. They were so excited and it was very hard to get them to sit still long enough to eat their dinner.
As we drove in through the reserve, again at every water hole they asked if that was where we were going to swim. There were a couple who tried to stay in the car because they didn't want to go in the water, but once we got them in we had a hard time getting them out. We took floaties and they loved splashing and playing. On the way home we stopped for a rare treat - icecream. They devoured it and had it all over their faces. I don't know how they were when they got home, but they certainly tired Katie and I out. We all had a great time! Like any child these kids of bubbling with energy, but they are very well behaved and it has been fun spending time with them and getting to know them.

Exciting Times!

2006-03-31T15:25:00.000-04:00

There are exciting things happening! Just this last week the church plant (that has been a cell group) finally found a place to hold services. It a great spot right in the city of Manzini. We hope to attract/reach the people in the city so the place also meets a standard of quality for that purpose, but yet is still affordable for a baby church to rent. The first service is planned for April 2. This means that everything is stepped up into high gear. We have to plan the first services, work out details with worship/music team, etc, etc.
The pastor, Jim Machuku, really has a vision and direction for the church. There will be a major push/focus on prayer and discipleship; something that many churches in Swaziland extremely lack. From the start there is also going to be teaching on missions and the project is going to be the Fortress Orphanage. Many of our graduates here at the Bible College end up in established churches and it's hard for them to share their vision without it being snuffed out by well meaning Christians stuck in their ways. Jim has an opportunity to start fresh and teach the people the importance of not just tithing, but also giving to missions and doing evangelization. Attached is the bulletin to give you an idea of the direction we're going.
I'm glad to be a part of it, but it's also a big responsibility and means one more thing on my plate. I love music and this I want to do because it also gives me a chance to meet people from the community and build relationships outside the college campus. Pray that God will give me wisdom in how to train the members of the worship team to be worship leaders and all that is involved with that.
We rejoice in what the Lord has done already and how he worked out a place for us to meet, but we still need prayer. This is not going to be your comfortable church that just caters to its members and is happy. We are reaching out to inner city people, something that has not yet been done in Swaziland, and I'm sure Satan won't let it go unnoticed. Please pray for the people involved that we will keep the fire for what we are doing and also for the people we hope to reach; that God will work in their hearts before we ever meet.

2006-03-06T14:03:00.000-04:00

I just got back from Mozambique today. It was fun! We spent the rest of Friday (once we got there) and all day Saturday at the beach snorkeling and just enjoying the warm water and the sun. They have a beautiful beach. Not all Mozambique looks like that, however, even after a few years you can still see the effect of the civil war. Only in Mozambique have I seen bills with so many zeros. Mind you 20,000 meticais = $1 CAN. It is a little hard on the head when you have to barter for things and trying to work with such large numbers.
Yesterday we went to church under a big tree. It was a multi-church gathering to end off a conference they had that weekend. The only thing that made it different from your typical African church service was that it began to rain just a little into it. From what we experienced, those people don't believe in getting rained out. The service went on as planned. The more the service continued, the harder it rained and still nobody moved or even acknowledged it was raining. Near the end of the service, when it was on the verge of torrential downpour, some of the younger people moved for shelter, which wouldn't have held many more, but most people just put whatever they had (Bible, cloth, etc.) over their heads and the preacher never stopped. It was interesting, wet, and a little cold. They really put us to shame though. We (in North America) would have cancelled the service on account of weather, but many of the people had walked quite a distance to be there, were not bothered by the rain much anyway and didn't even think about stopping the service.

Down & Dirty

2006-02-27T14:26:00.000-04:00

I now have my assignments and all I can think is, "Dear Lord, help me!" Officially, I'm working roughly 15 hours a week in the library, teaching Advanced English on Thursday nights (I don't think they realize what Grand Mananers and English are like), in charge of worship team for the chapel services, and the registrar. It looks like I'm going to help out with worship at a Manzini English speaking church plant once they find a place to start having services. Unofficially, I'm the campus computer technician, computer instructor, telephone service personnel, and in charge of "contemporizing" the school (student handbook, music, etc). One thing I learned while here on my internship is that if you have any knowledge, even just a little, in an area, that you automatically become an expert in many areas. There are many reasons that I could come up with of why I'm not adequate to do these things, but I came with the willingness to be stretched and it's going to happen. I have said before that anything good for me hurts. That's often the truth. Being stretched isn't usually fun, but in the end you're so much better off than before and you may find you like, and are even good at, some things you may never have known otherwise. It also forces you to rely more on God. That's the best part. I hope I never get comfortable in everything I do, because then it's too easy to rely on my own strength to do things.
I have had a few chances to go with Katie to the Orphanage. At the beginning of the semester the whole campus went down and planted trees, but we didn't really get to play with the children much. When Katie and I went down there we got our hands dirty (and our clothes and the rest of us). We got down in the mud and played with clay that the children found in their back yard. They are very creative. They made cars with working wheels and everything. One kid made a tractor complete with swivel front wheels for steering, driver, and a plow that the goes up and down. Katie and I made a castle with with horses and riders. Then the children all made horses too. It was fun. Most of the children understand quite a bit of English, but don't speak very much. We don't speak much siSwati and I don't understand much, but a little more than I speak. The children talked the whole time (in siSwati). I could piece together some of it, but it was mostly them talking and than laughing when we didn't understand. We just laughed with them. It's amazing how much you can communicate and do even though you don't speak the same language. I am thankful, however, that Katie has been teaching them English. When we left they wanted us to come back the next day.
The orphans are adjusting fine and have settled into school and their new home. Unfortunately, however, about a week or so after taking the twin's grandmother to the hospital she passed away. I guess her condition was much worse than we thought. The twins went to the funeral and have adjusted back to their normal lives at the orphanage again.
Please pray for the orphans at Thimbuthini. Katie goes three times a week to teach them English and said that the feeding station there has not been running for the last two weeks because there has been no food to give them.

An Interesting Day! (con't)

2006-02-17T13:38:00.000-04:00

The second part of my interesting day was a little more exciting than the first. After finishing my shift at the library, I was walking home only to discover the maintenance man, Bheki, driving my car and the students were all standing around watching. Curious I went to investigate and learned they were moving my car away from a tree because... are you ready for this?????????? ... a spitting cobra had slithered in through the back wheel well while escaping the students who were trying to kill it. They tried numerous things to try to get it out like spraying water up in under, but I only ended up with a clean car. So after an hour of trying to figure something out we just sat and waited. We couldn't just leave it there because it could go anywhere and would be very dangerous. Coming just about dusk, roughly 2 1/2 hours after the incident began, the snake poked its head out, decided it was clear, and made a break for it; however it did not make it far before students were beating it with sticks, and after a struggle, finally killed it. This one was about 5 times larger than the one I had in my bathtub during my internship. It was roughly 6 feet long and 2 inches in diameter... bigger than the rakes/sticks they were hitting it with. I was afraid it wouldn't come out and I was not about to get near that car until I found a body. Luckily there was a happy ending (for us, not the snake) and makes for a good email. The next day we found out there was another snake killed later that night in the same area... right by my house... yuck! That's number 3 on campus this week. Pray for everyone's safety.

An Interesting Day!

2006-02-13T13:27:00.000-04:00

Last Thursday (Feb. 9) was an interesting day. First, there is a new addition to the family. Her name is grace and she is a 3 or 4 month old great dane with light eyes and black spots. The students say she looks like a leopard, that was before her bath. After her bath we discovered she is a pretty silver colour. Allow me to back up just a little. Yesterday a car load of us went to Mbabane (the capital) to look at dogs. Upon arrival we found 7 dogs of great height, but skin and bones; all of which terrified of the man we called their owner. After observing the 3 females in "the pack", we looked at 2 of the separately. Cowering and wetting from fear they shook as we pet them and Katie examined them. She helped out the vet on White Head a lot so she was good to have around. We ended up with the cuter and smaller of the two, which in turn was the runt of the litter. With perfect teeth and good feet and eyes we put the rusty coloured puppy (fleas, ticks, dirt and all) in the car as the other dogs were herded away with sticks like cattle.
Why the name Grace, you may ask? One explanation being that Swazis take insult to a dog having a human Swazi name, because they are not worthy; therefore ruling out Nomsa (meaning grace). The other explanation coming from the situation in which we found her. Beaten, abused, and starving she learned quickly that our house was a safe place, but she is still not that sure about people, especially men speaking siSwati. She will come around eventually and will be a good dog, but it will take time and a lot of grace from us. At the risk of spiritualizing things, I thought this was a good illustration for where we've come from. How much more are we abused by sin, starved for God's presence, and afraid to step out until we have experienced God's love and salvation? Even then how much the measure of grace God extends until we are "trained" in His way and living like we should be?
After a few long nights she has already made progress. She nows wanders and explores the apartment and just this evening she went outside on her own and did her duty. Normally we can get her to go anyway. She just stands where she is, frozen with fear, and there is no getting her to budge. Her tail is also wagging more and not tucked under her as far. She doesn't snarl or anything, just cowers. She's gaining though. We'll also put some meat on her bones. I got her so there would be someone else around in the house after Katie leaves.

A Busy Month

2006-01-31T14:28:00.000-04:00

I've settled in to life in Swaziland and have been busy. After just a few days to get settled I was handed a bunch of papers and disks with the instructions to put the files with the matching papers, type up what wasn't there and to have it ready by the end of the week. It was very overwhelming. The lady who normally did it went back to the States on furlough in November. Ester (who I work under) didn't know much more than that. The files and papers were no longer organized so I started there. It took long days and some frustration, but I finished everything on time. We went to Hebron College in Johannesburg for a few days and they needed the student's marks and work. We have a degree program at Emmanuel Wesleyan Bible College, but the 4th year is technically done by distance education through Hebron College.
Right now it seems like I'm going to be working part time in the library, doing the registrar work for the school, and working with the worship team here, there hasn't been any final word yet. I probably won't find out for sure until school gets going next week. There seems to be an endless amount of activities for me to fill my days with that I can choose from.
Now things are not all work around here. Even missionaries need a day of rest and relaxation every now and then. Last weekend some other missionaries were here visiting and so a group of us went to Mlilwane Game Reserve (try to pronounce that one). There were also a couple other families from the college and surrounding community at the reserve and so we had a day of fellowship with everyone. Katie and I went for a bike ride and then I enjoyed a game of keep away (girls vs. guys - girls won!) in the pool. For supper we enjoyed a braii which is what they call a meal cook over an open fire. It was a good day and around here we take any excuse to spend a little time with friends, because it's so easy to be consumed by our work.

They're Home

2006-01-31T14:24:00.000-04:00

Seven orphans now have a new home! The orphanage officially opened Friday, Jan. 20. We spent that afternoon picking them up. It was an exciting time. The Fortress staff worked so hard to get everything ready so the children could move in that week. At first it didn't seem possible, but, praise the Lord, He made it happen. The children were very excited to be there as well. The home is beautiful, has a playground in the back, and room for 7 more children. It's just down the street from the college and when the students arrive the college is taking a day to go do activities with the children. The picture is of the children with Mrs. Twayla, the director of the Fortress, whose dream got all this started.
Katie and I had the experience of picking up a set of twin boys; one that I won't soon forget. Upon arrival at the homestead, we learned that their grandmother was very sick and so we agreed to take her to a hospital. Now you have to picture this with me: Frail with age, wheezing with asthma, and stooped over with pain, the woman was carried on a blanket by family members up the trail to my car. The trail looked nothing more than a trench carved out in the hillside by heavy rains. It was well travelled, but very steep. The family cautiously maneuvered the terrain, periodically switching off to carry, so that everyone had helped. I was amazed with the agility of her transporters, but pained to hear her moans. She kept repeating something in siSwati, but I didn't understand. I only understood a little of her anguish as we travelled down a long, windy dirt road through the mountains to the hospital.
I'm thankful the orphans have a new home and will be cared for, that the gogo (grandmother) now has medical help, and that we were able to do a little in the lives of each. God delights in caring for His children and perhaps that's why He wishes to use us where He could easily do it Himself; that we might understand His love, just a little, by Him sharing that with us.
Please pray for the orphans as they adjust to a new home and for the grandmother as she is cared for at the hospital.

We Made It!

2006-01-16T12:17:00.000-04:00

It was a tiring three day trip here, but after a day in Frankfurt, Germany, Katie and I made it safely to Swaziland on Wed, Jan. 11. Thankfully it was only 20 C and raining; however since then it has been 32 C in the shade, sunny and humid. When we got here, we hit the ground running. First on the list was to report our missing luggage. That's right, all we arrived with was what we had on our backs and in our hands. Next was to eat, unpack (what little we could do), shower, and SLEEP. Thursday we went shopping for a fridge, water heater, and groceries and checked up on our luggage. Praise the Lord we were able to find all those things that day. Friday was a staff meeting for the college as we prepare for students to arrive.
Since Wednesday we have had spiders, other bugs, lizards, a flat tire (out in the middle of no where), and an amazing thunderstorm. All in all it's been good and we are settled into our apartment (which is half of the girl's dorm in the picture) and it's wonderful to see my friends again and meet new people. We look forward to going to a Swazi church service tomorrow and next week officially marks the beginning of our duties here. I'm not exactly sure what all that includes because of a change with the Jesus Film Project, but will keep you posted. Thank you for praying us here and for your continued prayer.