We realize that it has been 8 weeks since our last update - far too long! Part of the reason is that I gave my computer to the "technician" to have the screen repaired and while they were doing that they decided - without asking my permission - to "restore the operating system" which resulted in losing everything from the computer including notes, email, photos…everything! I sent the computer to Best Buy to see what the "Geek Squad" could do. They have recovered almost everything, but the hard drive is in Houston and we are in Zambia. Hopefully we will have that in a few weeks. Please pray for the safe arrival of the hard drive and the contents.
With the challenges come the victories and encouragement. A few weeks ago a young man contacted me through FACEBOOK and sent me the following note: "Hi Brother Patrick, This is Curtis Chirwa, a man you taught how to Evangelize and he is still a fishing for God. You would never realize the little things you did years ago how deep they had to go. I just wanted to say thank you and God bless you."
I remember Curtis as a high school student 18 years ago when I first came to Zambia. He was dedicated to the Lord and wanted to know how to reach his neighbours for Christ. He has shown that his enthusiasm for evangelism has not decreased and he is currently serving the Lord in Lusaka. It is always great to hear from those with whom we worked so long ago and to know that they are still in the Master's business. Yesterday I was told about four other young men I had the privilege of training several years ago who are now preaching and presenting the Gospel in their local churches. This was another great encouragement! Last week I was able to teach a module at the Bible institute on Biblical Stewardship to 16 young people from all parts of Zambia who are preparing now to serve the Lord with their Time, Talents and Treasures. The future is bright! Your prayers on our behalf have borne much fruit. Keep it up!
Sherry's youth class on Friday is another exciting aspect of the ministry here. All but two benches were full two weeks ago as the young people continued their lessons in Romans. This week the class will cover Romans 6:15-23—“Whose Slave Are You?” A number of the young people have been receiving counsel and guidance throughout the weeks and some are about to take a leap into public ministry either in teaching Sunday School, assisting in the youth programs or participating in the various services of the local church. Your prayers on behalf of the young men and women are greatly appreciated.
The kids remaining in our orphanage program are doing well. Andrew, the youngest, returned at 4 a.m. Wednesday morning after competing in a nation-wide sports competition representing his high school. His school came out on top and we are now awaiting words about the next phase in the competitions and whether Andrew will be one of those chosen to represent Zambia. Shadreck was recently chosen to represent Luanshya on the local rugby team. For a young man who required three surgeries to remove damaged muscle in his leg when he came to us eleven years ago, he’s quite the athlete. Dickson continues to excel in karate and will be representing his club in the next competition. Nancy is busy as ever participating in Red Cross and Interact Clubs at her all girl school. Pray for our kids as they prepare for their mid-term mock exams which should set them in good stead for final exams come the end of August.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support of this ministry.
Together in His Service,
