We’ve finally heard from Steve, who is in Africa this week for the 2010 GCA West Africa Church Planting Institute. He’s been keeping busy with his team. It sounds like things are going well, though. Here’s a summary of what he had to say (it’s a little stream-of-consciousness):
All three team leaders are doing well so far. We’ve been eating a lot of rice and chicken.
The first day of training went GREAT! The church we’re mtg in is not enclosed – just a metal roof totally open sides with wood poles. So we’re exposed to the weather, which is extremely hot and very humid. Also, we’re in the rainy season, and that and that means we get to do a lot of walking in mud. We have electricity, but mainly through use of a gas generator because electricity often off in village. We made a makeshift PowerPoint screen using bedsheets and sticks the locals carved with their machetes for us. It works great even when wind blows it!
The sessions haven’t been without distractions. A goat bleated so loudly while I was teaching we had to stop and get rid of it. Goats are everywhere!
A few prayer requests: Nathaniel tried to drive to Togo 2 times today-to prepare for the next conference. Both cars broke down so he’s still here. The roads here would break down a tank! Please pray as well for several painful blows I’ve taken to my head since getting here due to short doorways. I’m not used to ducking and it feels like someone periodically keeps hitting my head with a bat. It would be funny if didn’t hurt so badly. Finally, please pray that our team would be able to serve well despite our lack of sleep.
Thanks for your prayers, everyone!
It sounds like a challenge being in somewhat primitive conditions, but I know the africans are being blessed.
Steve,
I hope you have some tylenol!