Greetings!
It feels like just yesterday that we shared an update about our work in Zambia, but upon reflection, I realize it’s already been several months! Time really does fly.
When I first considered coming to Africa 41 years ago, my goal was to train Africans to reach Africans for the Lord. Today, it brings me great joy to witness God’s work in the lives of local believers, in line with Paul’s admonition in 2 Timothy 2:2: “And the things that you have heard from me among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also.”
This past month, we saw this principle come to life. One of the young men from our English-speaking congregation, Edgar, asked if he could preach on a Sunday morning. After presenting his notes, he was permitted to preach. He read from his notes—as we all do in our early days—and did a commendable job. We’ve known Edgar since his birth and have watched him grow both physically and spiritually for over 30 years. One of the blessings of being here for 40 years! Please join us in praying for Edgar as he continues to grow in his faith and service to the Lord.
In other news, two young ladies—sisters of one of the young mothers in our church—have been observing their sister, Emmelia, for some time. They realized that their faith in their denomination would not guarantee their salvation and, through God's grace, came to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. They are now waiting to be baptized and have also expressed interest in teaching in Sunday School! In about a week, Sherry will begin discipleship with these young ladies, guiding them on their journey of faith. We’ve emphasized to them that our lives are the first "Bible" people read, and Emmelia is witnessing this firsthand. Please pray for these young women as they grow in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.
Two scholars are preparing for their final exams, which include both practical and theoretical components. Ethel has been studying General Hospitality, which will equip her for various roles in the hotel and restaurant industry following graduation. Katongo is in her third year of studying to become a lab technician. She recently completed her internship at a local company and received glowing feedback from both the company and her institution. Please pray for both of these young women as they prepare for mock exams in September, and then for their finals in November/December.
Mahlon has graduated from his course as a clinical officer in the health sector. He has completed his internships and is now working at one of the mine hospitals north of us. We praise the Lord for those who have sponsored these young people, enabling them to continue their education and deepen their walk with the Lord. Each of them has taken the opportunity to engage in college and career programs at their institutions, sharing the Gospel with classmates and fellow interns. It’s exciting to see the Word spread through the next generation.
Sherry will soon meet with the local Member of Parliament to discuss government sponsorship for young girls who are in difficult circumstances. Due to recent budget cuts by the U.S. government, many programs designed to help these girls have been shut down, leaving them destitute and without the skills needed to support themselves and their families, particularly in youth-led households. Please pray for Sherry as she and the Member of Parliament discuss ways to address both the physical and spiritual needs of these young women.
Finally, we ask for your prayers as the community school in the Kamuchanga Refugee Resettlement area comes to a close after nine years of serving the community. The Zambian government has implemented policy changes regarding these schools and we must comply with them. However, we are grateful that we can funnel the children into the public school system at no cost. We also pray that we will be able to repurpose the property into a local church for the deaf and offer skills training for those interested.
Thank you for your continued prayers and support.
In His Service,
