Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Home Asssignment


As this Home Assignment comes to a close, I look back on my time with family, faithful supporters, old friends and their new babies with a smile.

While home I've kept busy traveling around the United States visiting friends, supporters and churches. Time has also been spent preparing for my eventual return to Didinga and enjoying special moments with loved ones, ones who I dearly miss when away. Currently, I have been working diligently to complete several Bible class requirements.

I will be returning to the newest nation in the world - the Republic of Southern Sudan - on October 10th!!!! Originally, I planned to return to Africa in late August or very early September. However, my flight schedule was inadvertently adjusted due to flight in-availability.

Although it is never easy to say goodbye, I am eagerly anticipating this coming term in Didinga. I am looking forward to returning to my jobs teaching in the primary school and training local Didinga teachers. Also excited, yet humbled, by the prospect of mentoring the new group of missionary teachers joining the Nagishot team this year.

These days my mind is often filled with plans for future Didinga discipleship groups and opportunities for continuing to build upon the relational foundation first laid in Napep back in 2008.

As I head back, please join me in praying for:
*a peaceful new nation - the Republic of Southern Sudan!
*for a like-minded, cohesively Christ-centered missionary team in Nagishot
*for Stateside goodbyes and upcoming African life adjustments
*fertile ground in the classroom, amongst the National teachers and Didinga friends - ground eager for hearing the Word of God and accepting the Son.

Thanks for your continued interest in my life and the lives of the Didinga, prayers and financial support. I couldn't be there without people like you!



Monday, September 12, 2011

New Address for AIM Headquarters

Africa Inland Mission (AIM) has moved their US headquarters from Pearl River, New York to Peachtree City, Georgia. This information will effect anyone who sends their financial support through the mail. Please update your records.

The new address is:

Africa Inland Mission International
P.O. Box 3611
Peachtree City, GA 30269-7611
USA

Thanks!!!

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Wyoming

In mid-August I made the long trek east to Wyoming. Amelia, one of my dearest friends, calls the ruggedly beautiful state home. What fun it was catching up with her and her two little dearies - two year old, Jack and two month old, Peter.

The trip was not only a great opportunity to spend a bit of quality time with a good friend and her growing family, but also a much desired chance to catch up with a wonderful group of believers in Dubious, Wyoming. I first met the congregation at Wilderness Baptist Church back in 2009. Reuniting with the congregation was an immeasurable encouragement and a highlight of my time in Wyoming.

I am incredibly thankful for this congregation's prayers for the Didinga and the work which is taking place in Nagishot and Napep, as well as their financial support.

I have been greatly blessed by so many in Dubious!!!

Back in the day, Amelia and I found every opportunity we could to get outside. Over the years, some things have certainly changed - she's now a married mommy of two. However, some things have really stayed the same. With a little creativity, a few baby carriers and a good bit of determination, Amelia and I managed to fit in a few amazing Wyoming hikes.

Hike Number Two - Lake Louise

Peter and I hiking to Lake Louise

Lunch for all.


All this hiking would not have been possible without this great lady - Amelia's mom, Wendy. While Amelia and I carried the boys, she acted as the Sherpa/pack mule. Without a complaint, she packed enough diapers, snacks and water to get us all in and, perhaps more importantly, out of the wilderness. Thanks Wendy!!!

One good looking family.



And in reverse order, Hike Number Two - Jade Lake

Hiking to Jade Lake
Katmai the dog, Jack, me, Amelia, Peter (under the blanket), Amelia's dad, Dick and the mosquitoes (not pictured, but I promise you, they were ALL there!!!)

The wild flowers were in bloom. Beautiful!

My friend, the trooper. Because she could, Amelia hiked with her two year old strapped to her back and her two month old snuggled on her front. One strong momma!

Jack fishing with his grandma and grandpa.