21 January 2009

hustle and bustle

Greetings from Luanshya!

Sherry and I spent a few days out of town last week visiting old friends. It was nice to get away for a few days then we came back to the hustle and bustle of a new school year. The children at the Lighthouse Children's Home are back in school but some have yet to get their complete uniform requirements because the schools have run out of supplies. Some of those schools also do not have the necessary books and we have had to supply those as well. It is always a challenge putting children in school and even more so when supplies are limited. Please pray for these youngsters and their schoolmates.

We hope, in the next few weeks, to be able to present the Mailbox Club Program in several of the area schools. Our target group will be grades 5 through 12 this year. Obviously, we already have a number of students but with the start of a new school year, many more young people move into the region. The school principles are always willing to allow us access to the children and this is an open door that we cannot ignore.

The Christian Resource Centre continues to be utilized by both young people and adults. Many are curious about what we have to offer but most are serious students of the Word and looking for resource material for personal Bible study and lesson preparation. As we develop the audio/visual room, we are sure many more will take advantage of the opportunity to learn.

The rains have seriously affected some areas of ministry. We have had torrential storms over the last several days preventing those who participate in discipleship and counselling from attending. Every road is flooded and even paved roads are showing signs of deterioration. We know this is a seasonal phenomenon so we are not discouraged by cancelled meetings. Please pray for those who are unable to meet these commitments to do weather.

On the evening of the Presidential inauguration of Barack Obama we had a group of Zambian friends at our home to witness the occasion. They had a lot of questions about the American political system and were very impressed by the fact that the transition was peaceful an amiable. They noticed the fact that President Obama thanked President Bush for his help during the transition period and that he, President Obama, greeted Senator McCain during the proceedings. These actions greatly contrast with the proceedings of many African nations when it comes to handing over leadership to another political party. We are thankful that America continues to be the model. Such a testimony bodes well for us as we move among community leaders in Zambia and opens many doors for sharing the peace that comes from our Saviour.

Thank you for praying for us and those whom we come into contact every day.

In His Service,
Patrick & Sherry

07 January 2009

A Flurry of Activity

Greetings from Luanshya!

2009 has started with a flurry of activity. We are in the process of preparing five teenagers for school. New uniforms, shoes, books and supplies have to be purchased. We have five students in four different schools making it even more interesting. We appreciate those that have made this particular ministry of special interest because your help makes it all possible.

The Christian Resource Centre has been equally busy. Not only are the "regulars" using the facility but a new believer, Mr. Mwansa, was directed to the library by his church so he can grow. He is planning, in the future, to start the Bible correspondence courses as well. Please pray for brother Mwansa as he grows.

A brief update on John and Sarah Bwalya.: They have spoken to the senior education officer in their District as well as the one in Luanshya. Their transfer back to Luanshya should begin within the next few weeks. We are very pleased at the prospect of having them back in town working in the schools and here with us. Please continue to pray for this young family and that no obstacles will arise preventing their move.

Sherry's youth meeting continues in the book of Daniel. Last week she discussed Nebuchadnezzar's dream and Daniel's response to the edict made for the death of the entire "cabinet". The young people were very animated in their discussion. Sherry has a little knack for being able to apply the lessons in Daniel to everyday situations. This Friday she will be talking about the Blue Print For Tomorrow from Daniel 2:31-49. Pray for the young people as they discover truths to live by.

I have been spending quite a bit of time at the church property finishing things that were left undone by the various artisans. The rain does not always cooperate with a work day, but it has to be done. Pray that the Lord will raise up men from within the local church to assist in the maintenance and upkeep of the House of God.

We look forward to another exciting a fruitful year. We appreciate the part you play in our ministry as we remain.

In His Service,
Patrick & Sherry