19 January 2005

News from Zambia - 19th January 2005

Greetings from Luanshya!

Last Thursday the Lighthouse Children's Home had a surprise visit from one of the representatives from the Social Welfare office. This was the first time any representative came unannounced. I was not informed of her visit until she was leaving. General comments about the Home were that we are, still, the model facility in the Luanshya District. She did comment that we had no blankets on the beds for the children. Every bed has sheets and light blankets and the temperatures right now range from 75 and 85 degrees so heavy blankets are really unnecessary at the moment. Nevertheless, in order to avoid an argument, I purchased 10 blankets and put one on each bed. There were a few other observations but she was extremely pleased with the condition of the Home and the well-being of the children. We appreciate those who have a part in this particular ministry.

On Friday Sherry had the first College and Career class. There were a number of young people from various church backgrounds. Sherry taught on "The Walk of Love" from 2 John 1:6. The hour-long class lasted a full ninety minutes with the young people saying that they planned to bring more friends next week. Please pray for this new outreach and Sherry as she prepares her lessons on the series "To Walk and Not Grow Weary".

The Bible Institute continues. We studied the book of 2 Kings. This week we were studying the ministry of the prophet Elisha. The students are doing well and their questions are not run of the mill but unique. Since we hold classes in the Christian Resource Centre, I often tell the students "go grab that commentary" and give your answer to the class. We then spend time discussing the various issues. We are all enjoying the studies.

My father's e -mail has not been working so I do not know how my mother is doing at this point after breaking her ankle from a recent fall. She is currently in a rehab hospital receiving personalized attention and discipline. One of the church members sent me a note saying that my mother was enjoying hospital food. So I think she must have hit her head as well. :) Just kidding, Mom!

As we finish writing this note (5:00 pm), Brother Silungwe is in the Christian Resource Centre working on his discipleship lesson for next Monday. He has not been well, due to the current weather conditions, but he wants to finish these lessons. Please pray for him and for others who are involved in this ministry.

Thank you for being a part of our lives.

In His Service, Patrick & Sherry