Tony & Catherine Duran

Making new Friends

2012-01-18T18:28:00.000+02:00

While on holiday a few weeks ago, we met a couple from England traveling and camping throughout Namibia for several weeks. We enjoyed a delightful chat that evening as we strolled through the camping area right around sunset. Little did we know that she is a professional photographer. Check out their blog. Beautiful pictures of our lovely country, and very interesting stories and comments too. As we ended our chat, we handed them our business card and invited them to the cafe if they came through Okahandja on their way out of the country.

Petra, Tony and Anders

Well.... guess what? Today they showed up! We were pleasantly surprised to meet them again and they ordered pizza, coffee, and cakes for dessert - which they said were terrific. Again.... we shared more stories, and they asked a lot of questions about the work that we are doing here. It was so encouraging to share with others who show care and concern for those who are struggling in this country. Just take a look at the pictures and read their stories and you will "hear" their heart. We hope to see the Stridfeldts again! http://stridfeldts.wordpress.com/

Measureable Success!

2011-12-30T15:27:00.000+02:00

“Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God's way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us." 2 Timothy 3:16 (The Message)

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Our plan for 2012 is to stay focused! We are seeing fantastic results and we are on a roll. Lives are being changed!

Change occurs when we present the TRUTH, simply put: accepting that God created mankind to be productive and fulfilled when we live according to HIS design. Confirmation recently came to us from an article in Christianity Today. Our work here in Africa is making a difference.

We see so many young people discouraged by personal failures and tangled up in unhealthy relationships. They walk through our doors, head hanging low and hearts heavy. We witness the last ditch effort to grasp for the magic straw. You can see the desperation on each face as they scrape the bottom of their courage barrel and sit for the interview. Then, after they are accepted into the program.....change is activated slowly as we present scripture, verse by verse, precept by precept, truth that dispels the lies that they have swallowed and digested for far too long. No apologies; no compromise. We present the gospel – because it sets people free and gives them HOPE. It gives them a foundation on which to build a healthy life today and a brighter tomorrow. We teach how to make change in personal character and matters of the heart by applying biblical principles to daily decisions and behaviour. It WORKS! We have real-life stories to prove it!

Here’s the article excerpt confirming to us that what we are doing is the real deal and produces lasting transformation in the lives of Namibian youth.

2008 article in The Times (UK) by Matthew Parris, a journalist and former British Conservative MP. He reflects on a visit to Malawi, where he grew up as a missionary kid. He came to see Christianity as necessary to effect changes in the mindset and culture. He wrote:

“Now a confirmed atheist, I’ve become convinced of the enormous contribution that Christian evangelism makes in Africa: sharply distinct from the work of secular NGOS, government projects and international aid efforts. These alone will not do. Education and training alone will not do. In Africa Christianity changes people’s hearts. It brings a spiritual transformation. The rebirth is real. The change is good. ... A whole belief system must first be supplanted. And I’m afraid has to be supplanted by another. Removing Christian evangelism from the African equation may leave the continent at the mercy of a malign fusion of Nike, the witch doctor, the mobile phone, and the machete.”

Since we started the YDM program one year ago, 24 young people have completed the program. Eight have been hired at the Cafe, and according to our knowledge all the others have been offered jobs and are working. These are young people who had no possibility for employment previously.

Read these comments made by recent students who have completed the YDM program:

“It gave me joy in my heart by teaching me the word of God, by teaching me how to treat customers with love and caring heart.”

“The program has made a positive impact on my life. I now know that to make a right choice for my life. It’s has made me a new creation in Christ.”

“Many of the youth in Okahandja, Namibia look toward drinking alcohol as fun, they don’t want to work or even go to church even in hard times. So, this program is a very good eye opener for our youth. It teaches them how to have self-control.”

“This program made me change alot. It helps me to be more loving, understanding and very helpful. It taught me that we are all special in front of God and that God loves me and gave himself for me.”

“Most of us were falling into streets, alcohol, and drug abuse. And it brought changes to my life because as a young mature man I’m 22 years old and still dependent on my parents. After this I’m proud, my family is proud and God has blessed us all with a new life in Christ.”

Not only are these young people productive now, but they are contributing to the needs of their extended family, helping to feed, clothe, and provide finances for schooling. Heads are held high now... smiles have replaced the long faces, and hope has replaced despair. The evidence overwhelmingly proves ... God’s way works!

To all our partners who make this work a reality – thank you! Together.... we will continue to make a difference!

Celebrate!

2011-12-06T17:48:00.000+02:00

A good kind of pride fills our hearts this week as we celebrate the end of our third YDM program, and adjust to our larger staff. Just like in previous sessions, we have selected star students to join our staff at the cafe – and all three were very excited to answer yes to the invitation.

You missed a very energy-filled evening last Friday night as we celebrated over dinner with all 10 students, their family and friends; Pastor Garnie & his wife; Pastor Watson & his wife; and the GM of Closwa & his wife. All three of the latter extended words of encouragement and challenge to the students. You should have seen the smiles on each face and heard the giggles and exclamations of gratitude as they received recognition, gifts and certificates of completion. They were bouncing with excitement.

The Rosen's & Duran's with 9 of the 10 students

Teacher Sondra with Herculady

Here are some pictures to help illustrate. Perhaps as you see the pictures you will understand that you are a part of something very big – much bigger than Tony & Catherine. You are helping to change the future of these young people and their families – one student at a time. There is now HOPE where there was only despair! Something to celebrate, indeed.

During special prayer time for the students

Englehardt & Albertina with friends

Time to Celebrate new beginnings!

2011-12-01T10:20:00.000+02:00

Here is a picture of our trainees completing the program TOMORROW! One has been hired at a local lodge here in Okahandja, several others have already interviewed for hospitality jobs, and their CV's are being sent to lodges and guest houses all around Namibia as I write this blog. Doors are opening .... people are spreading the word about our program and these young people have a new found hope for a successful future. We are proud, yes, but must give thanks to our partners, the Rosen's for their help this term, and our course, God - our Father who loves these young people even more than we do.

Black Rhino having a snack

2011-10-22T14:55:00.001+02:00

One of the perks of living in Africa is getting the thrill of observing wildlife in their natural habitat. The sights, the sounds, the smells.... well, you'll have to use your imagination for the smells part! Quite remarkable animals.

Another Success Story!

2011-10-19T19:24:00.000+02:00

Adam applied for the YDM program along with about 30 other young people. He completed all the requirements for the program and smiled his way through the interview process. Something about his determination to improve his life circumstances touched us and we accepted him and nine others into the program last February.

As we became more acquainted with each student, we heard their stories and listened as they shared their struggles. Adam confessed that he had been a party person the past few years, but also made a point of letting us know that he knew – that was a dead end road. We watched as day by day, lesson by lesson, Adam grew strong in character and pushed through to meet his goals. He proved to be a great server, with excellent communication skills and warm smile which made his customers comfortable. He showed respect for authority, concern for his classmates and demonstrated a team player attitude. Whether serving tables or prep-cooking in the kitchen, Adam stayed focused and thorough in his training.

At the conclusion of the program Adam received a letter of recommendation from Garden Cafe and had achieved the confidence to apply for work in hospitality. We had not seen Adam in about three months and wondered how he was doing. Just a week ago, Adam walked into the cafe with a big smile greeting us warmly. What a pleasant surprise!

Of course, we asked him what he was doing now. He proudly reported that he is working at a busy restaurant in Windhoek, making good money and enjoying it. We could see the satisfaction on his face. He had received a boost forward by being in the YDM program and now he was moving ahead – setting goals and finding the success he only dreamed about one year ago.

This is what we get excited about and what motivates us to continue when it gets challenging. Young people like Adam determined to succeed just need a little push in the right direction.

We're Cruising!

2011-09-29T10:52:00.000+02:00

Sondra & Charles - living, breathing gifts from the Father!

Classes are under way! Our friends (the Rosen’s) have their sea legs and are fully cruising with us and enjoying the adventure. It’s so great to have partners in our mission here. Each day we hear more stories that touch our hearts in a profound way. Now that we are beginning to build relationships with our students, we are hearing about serious financial crisis in families, need for eyeglasses, medical care, and school fees for siblings. Some families have a basic need for food. Our hearts are moved to compassion and yet, we don’t have the finances to care for all the needs. Please pray with us that others will open their hearts to give – both locally as well as friends around the world. As we have slimmed down our personal budget we are able to help some, but it’s just not enough. It’s another lesson in prayerful perseverance.

The most exciting and rewarding part of our job is welcoming a new believer into the family of God and last week – we welcomed five of our students. We are rejoicing with the angels and invite you to join the celebration. Now, we have much work to do as we nurture and disciple. One question we hear and see in their eyes, “If God loves us so much – why are we suffering?” We need wisdom as we counsel these precious new family members.

Thank you for your support and prayers! We are able to do what we do - because of your continued support! We pray God blesses YOU! We can't thank you enough.

One by one

2011-09-21T16:18:00.001+02:00

Ernesto has been in our home many times. We first met him about 3 years ago. He was introduced to us as a young man who works with the game drives. Over chips and cool drink we listened to his story. He is the oldest in his family and there is a strong pressure for him to contribute financial to the struggling family. I've never heard him talk about his father, but he does mention his mother and sisters. Ernesto described his job with the game drive company as very risky. He was injured more than once by animals which were being herded into trucks for transport to game reserves. This born and raised Namibian expressed his fear and respect for the wild animals he captured and helped transport. He shared that he was studying and practicing so that he could get his drivers license and drive the trucks, which would grant him more pay and less risk. For the past two years he tried and failed, until finally after much encouragment - he passed his drivers test, however the game company did not grant him a driver position. When he talked with Tony, he sounded desperate to find another job. Tony then contacted friends of ours who own a local paint company and asked if Ernesto could come in for an interview. After completing the application process, he was hired and is happy now to have such a good job with a good, reliable, growing company. He drives truck delivering paint to the various locations throughout Namibia, and enjoys his work. His big smile is genuine! Thank you for all your partner support, because we were able to help Ernesto through some very dry financial seasons as he struggled to find stable employment. He expresses his thanks too.

Training Begins Again

2011-09-14T15:58:00.001+02:00

New Students

One out of these five was selected. Very difficult to choose.

We have just begun our third training. On Tuesday the 6^th of September we handed out 27 applications and we had 23 return the applications. We invited all 23 to come back for interviews and as we sat with each one and talked to them our hearts were moved and we wanted to invite them all back to be a part of the program. We sat with our friends from the States, Charles and Sondra, and reviewed the applications and had the difficult task of deciding which ones would participate. Having to choose ten was just too hard and in the end we accepted eleven into the program.

The program began on September 13^th and will run for twelve weeks. We have four men and seven women this time and we are already very excited about this group. We now have the next twelve weeks to work with these eleven young people - to help them develop and grow – in personal character as well as practical skills which will help them find work. We look forward to the coming weeks to share with you how these young people are progressing.

We recently had friends from Germany visit us. We had met them last year while they were visiting Namibia and told them about our idea of starting a café and they got involved and began helping raise awareness in Germany for the program and they helped raise funds allowing us to purchase laptops which we use in the program and equipment that we needed in the café. It was nice having them visit because they could sit with some of the young men and women who have completed the program and hear directly from them how the program has helped them.

One thing we are being asked is how successful is the program so far. I have to say that I have wrestled with this question because how does one define success? My definition will be different than yours so how can I measure the success of the program to say it is good or bad. I can say that we have successfully completed two trainings so far. We had 5 out of 11 complete the first program and we had 9 out of 10 complete the second program. Of the 14 who have completed the program all are working fulltime. Six are working for us as the Café, five are working at Clowsa Biltong, one is working for NamGem and one is working at a restaurant on the coast. The Café has gained a very good reputation in the community for great service, great food and a great setting. We successfully hosted a private luncheon for the First Lady of Namibian and 124 guests. These are all things that people like to hear about and we are happy to share. I come back to the question: “What is success?” Who am I to determine what it is and how it should be measured.

Catherine and I have been called here by God to this work so for us our success will be measured by Him when we get to heaven and we can hear Him say well done good and faithful servant. Our hope is that our friends, family and partners will be happy with what we are able to share. We will make every effort to show how things are going by sharing stories and testimonies from those who have completed the program and from those in the program. The success of this program is largely because so many wonderful people have heard about this mission of hope and have caught the vision and chosen to participate with us. Together, we have seen lives changed and transformed – from hopeless to confident, from despairing to motivated. We call that SUCCESS!

The Swinging door

2011-09-02T14:27:00.000+01:00

Ulrich on his last day

Our door welcomes many young people who have found themselves at the bottom of the hope barrell. They have no prospect for further education or job opportunities. Then we invite them to join us at YDM - Youth Discipleship and Mentoring. Ulrich was one of the first to enter our program almost one year ago now. He told us later that he only came to encourage his brother, but didn't expect that there would be any hope for him personally. Not only did he complete the program with top marks and high recommendation, but we hired him here at the cafe. That's how highly we think of this young man. Just recently he was offered a full time job in a very good company, where he will have opportunity for advancement. It's always difficult to say goodbye, but isn't this the reason we came? To bring hope and tools to gain a more successful future. So, it is with blessings that we said goodbye to Ulrich and pray the Lord continue to show Him favor and prosperity in his family and career.

Serving the First Lady of Namibia

2011-08-25T13:15:00.002+01:00

On August 3rd the Garden Cafe hosedt a private luncheon for the First Lady of Namibia. It was all God's doing. I should begin by giving you some details about how it all came about.

First Lady Pohamba Arriving

Welcoming First Lady and V.I.P.'s

It was around the 12th of July when we received a request from the Ministry of Health in Okahandja for a quotation on how much we would charge to host a private buffet lunch for 70 - 80 people on the 3rd of August. Each of the restaurants in Okahandja was asked to submit a quotation. At the time we submitted our quotation we did not know that it was to host the First Lady.
After we submitted our proposal a representative of the Ministry of Health, Mr. Robert Horeb, visited us to discuss the menu options we had detailed in the quotation. It was during our discussions that we found out that the private lunch was for First Lady Penehupifo Pohamba and several other dignataries of Nambia. He then told us that we would hear something by the 29th of July if we got the bid.
Around the 25th Mr. Horeb returned with the First Lady's advance team. The team was looking at each location that submitted a bid to see which restaurant would be the best for the event. There were about 8-10 people and they looked around and then left without asking any questions. I thought they did not like what they saw. It was about an hour later that they returned and they asked a lot of questions and discussed the menu again, spoke about security and did a thorough inspection of the Cafe.
Well I'll try to keep this from getting to long. Mr. Horeb returned and told us we had been chosen to host the luncheon. We were so excited but secretlyI was thinking, "What in the world did I get us into?" Remember that my lovely, brilliant, hostess wife was still in the States. I did what I normally do not do. I asked for help from our friends and our church.
When we found out we were hosting the First Lady we had less than a week to prepare. We had several more visits from various local officials, presidential security teams and the local police to begin preparing for the big event.
I will not tell you every detail we had to go through to get ready but I can tell you that I looked reasonably calm on the outside but I was franticly trying to figure out how to do everything and how we were going to pull it off. We got everything we needed and closed the Cafe the day before to begin preparing the food and to clean and set up the Cafe.
On the 2nd of August we began preparing the food and the President's personal chef was in our kitchen observing how we prepared the food and giving us tips along the way. On the 3rd, the day of the event, the President's chef rolled up his sleaves and helped us cook the whole morning. He was such a blessing and we were honored to have him help us in our tiny kitchen.
On the 3rd we were busy finishing the cooking and setting up the cafe to seat 80 people. Eric and Faye Garnie our dear friends were such a blessing to us in helping get everything set up. They stayed the whole day to help.
That morning we had the local police taking up position around the Cafe for security reasons. This started to draw the attention of the local residents. About 10am we had the advance presidental security teams here looking over the area and taking up their positions. At about noon we had a sniffer dog come through looking for bombs and to ensure the Cafe was secure.
At 12:30 everything was in place and we were ready to recieve First Lady Pohamba and her guests. Just before her arrival the route to the Cafe was secured and we waited for our guests to arrive. It was a sight to see the First Lady and her security detail pull into our Cafe parking lot. I was honored to get to personally greet and welcome First Lady Pohamba to our little Cafe.
The next hours were a blur as everyone, especially our wonderful staff, worked to make sure every guest was served and taken care of. I was everywhere and smiling and greeting people. I was so proud of our staff. They had come so far and had worked so hard to get through the program and now they were serving the First Lady and many dignataries.
As people were coming I noticed that there were more than 80 people. This brought about a whole new challange and we quickly sat up another table and were able to accomodate the extra guests. The final number of guests was 125 people. That is 45 more than we expected and it was a miracle that we had enough food to feed every single person. Remember the loaves and fishes?
At the end of the event we had people from the Ministry of Health, the First Lady's team, the U.S. Embassy and others that complimented us on the service, the food and the restuarant. To hear all the praises was greatly appreciated we were so happy to have been able to make the First Lady's visit a pleasant experience.

Check Up

2011-06-27T06:11:00.000+01:00

We are so amazed at what God is doing in and through us since we listened to His call to go to Africa. We have been here over three years now. Yes it really has been more than three years. As we look back we thought we would take time to update you on those God brought across our path.

Simon to the left and Clinton on the right

Two young men have been in our circle of influence since the beginning - Simon and Clinton. They were in school when we first got involved in their lives. We have mentored and discipled them, more directly by inviting them into our home. On weekends and school holidays they actually lived with us. God had us kind of adopt them into our family and they have become our Namibian sons (I never imagined we would have so many kids). Simon, completed Secondary school and now has a full time job and is doing very well at the company. The owners are friends of ours and attend our church. Simon has proven to be a very dedicated and hard working employee. He is sharing his faith with others and is a positive example for others to follow.

Just recently I started the second level discipleship class with the young men that completed the first level. Simon has joined that group since he completed the first level with Catherine and I in our home. He has also saved some money for lumber and tin siding and with a friend they have built their own home. Simon has continued to grow spiritually and we are encouraged as we watch him walk with the Father.

Clinton has also done well. He received high enough marks in school to qualify for university. He is attending classes and finding it a challenge to find funds to cover rent, tution, books, transportation and food expenses. We are praying for him and try to encourage him as much as possible. He is creative and innovative and will continue to do well as he follows his dreams.

I have worked with several other young men. Two are Polo and Ernesto. These two young men have been through discipleship with us and are challenged in their daily walks. I wish I could say that they have done everything right and are walking the straight and narrow path but I cannot. I am encouraged though because I see growth and they continually come back to seek council and prayer. The good news is that these two young men are working full time with a Christian company. They both still come around to share what is going on in their lives and we welcome them, encourage and pray with them.

Nhidipo and his Team leaders in Discipleship

These are just a few of the young men God has us working with. We wanted you to know because we have shared their stories in the past and we feel it is important to share updates on those we introduce through our newsletters and blog. It is a treat for us to see fruit from the planting we have done, and the fruit is staying!

Before coming here the most rewarding job I had was working in construction. Every day I went to work I would see the fruit of my hard work. I could drive around San Diego and see buildings that I helped build. Now that I have been working here for three years I can walk down the street and see the fuit of the work we began just a few years ago. This is by far the best job I have ever had or will ever have. I love how God prepared us to be so well equipped for the ministry we are doing here.

Reality Continued

2011-06-06T12:16:00.000+01:00

Katrina (far left, front row)

I sit here trying to put into words the experience of loving people for Christ and words rarely convey the depth of that experience. I am going to introduce you to Katrina and as I do I hope I can find the words to help you get to know her.
Katrina is 30 years old, she is married and has a little girl. She had submitted an application to attend the first training we had but because we were focused on reaching young people we did not invite her to attend the first class. When we called her and invited her to come for another interview to attend the second class she happily came.
This time when we interviewed her we saw a potential leader, someone who could help us train, a person who could encourage and someone who even though she was past over the first time did not give up. We had no idea at that time how wonderful she was and what a blessing Katrina would be. As we read the professional referral for Katrina it confirmed it for us. It said, "She is a humble, hard working, fast learning and a mature Christian. She will be able to even train others. She is someone who likes to motivate others positively."
She was one of the first we accepted into the second class. She was such an encouragement to us and to her fellow students. Everyone of the students respected her and even looked to her for help. Her knowledge of the Bible and faith in God is truly remarkable and it drew the other girls to her. Over the weeks of training, everyone got to know each other and learned that they could trust each other. Once that trust was established Katrina began inviting the girls to church and began mentoring them.
Katrina completed the program and is now working for the Garden Cafe. She is amazing and she will be a leader some day soon even though she does not think she will be. She does not see what I see. She comes to work with a smile, she greets and is greeted by everyone, she gets right to work, she has almost learned every area of the kitchen in just a months time, she works hard and is focused on detail and excellence. What she does not see is that she is setting a great example for the others and without even knowing it she is leading already.
When we asked her to write a thank you note to those who helped make the program possible this is what she wrote:
"Dear Sponsors, First of all I will like to give thanks for our Heavenly Father for giving you the strength to make me acheive something in life. I will like to thank you for the way you sponsor us, so that we can experience something. I am so happy that you make my dreams come true. And I am now able to work with people, be polite and loving people. I also thank you for the kind cute people Mr and Mrs Duran you gave us or send them for us. May all the blessings be upon you and may our Heavenly Father always be with you. I'll always pray for you. And once more thank you very much. Love you all. Read Psalm 23. From Katrina."
Her words say it better than mine and they still bring tears to my eyes. Each of these wonderful people God brings accross our path are His children and we are so blessed to get to know them. Each is an inspiration to me and helps me to be a better person and a better Christian.

Reality that is Real

2011-05-22T16:12:00.001+01:00

Almost every one of us has watched a show like “American Idol”, “The Amazing Race” or “America’s Got Talent”. We watch these shows for so many reasons. We watch them to see someone, who on their own would never have had a chance to be successful. We find ourselves cheering for our favorite and often it is the underdog. As we watch week after week we are drawn into their story and we begin to get to know them. Their stories touch our hearts and we are even moved to tears.

Watching those shows we only get to be a spectator. We have no involvement in the people lives. We become so drawn to them and their stories that we watch week after week. We plan our lives around getting to watch the show or recording it so we can watch it.

What is it that draws us to watch these shows? If we are honest we want to see someone make it so that we can hope that we can make it someday. We want to know that our dreams are not for nothing.

As I am sitting here I have had my eyes opened to what reality really is. The reality is that we live in a world that is full of people who are lost, broken, afraid, hurt, suffering, intimidated and who feel alone. They do not believe that there is any hope for them. They have given up. And the truth is many do not know that there is something better.

When we answered the call to enter into fulltime ministry we knew that there would be challenges and that we would be stretched. We knew we would be humbled and we knew that our own relationship with God would grow if we allowed Him to do what He wanted in and through us. What we were not prepared for was how much loving one person for Christ would affect us and more importantly how much submitting to God would affect those we came to serve.

In the next couple blogs we will introduce you to some of the wonderful people God has allowed us to help. The first person is David.(pictured at the top - drying dishes). This young man has just completed our second training session. He has a wonderful personality and loves God and wants to serve Him with his whole heart. Meeting David you would never guess that he was an alcoholic and a drug abuser. He lived solely for his next drink or high and did not care what it took to get it.

Today David is working fulltime for the Garden Cafe and is continuing to learn more about God. He cannot get enough and as we sat and talked recently he shared that he has begun taking classes with one of the others that completed the program to become a pastor.

Here is what he wrote in a thank you letter to those who helped make the Youth Discipleship and Mentoring program possible.

“Dear Sponsors,
It is with the greatest joy, peace and happiness that I write this letter of thanks to the people that were so generous as to help people they have not met through sponsors.
You dear sponsors have been a complete and absolute blessing. It is comforting to know that there are still people out there who are kind and caring. Today I look at life from another point of view. You have given more than just hope, a life in Christ full of possibilities to be precise. People like you make the world a better place. I pray God blesses you in abundance for you people are truly God sent. If I could just know how to express the gratitude I feel towards you (the sponsors) and the God sent Mr. & Mrs. Duran. But I pray that God keep you in good health and bless you in all areas of your lifes together with those you love. Thank you once more and may God bless you countless times.
David

Being God’s hands and feet is better than any reality show we can or will ever watch. We get to be a part of it ourselves. We get to touch the lives of people. We get to know them and their stories. They get to know our stories. We get to laugh together and we get to cry together.

Being obedient to God is the ultimate reality event and we can be a part of it. All we have to do is tell God I am yours to use any way you choose. Every day we get to live reality and some days are hard but the rewards and the benefits here and in heaven are worth all the cost. Do not pass up your chance to live and experience the reality God has for you.

David is just one of so many that God has brought into our lives. He and the others are why we are here. I invite you and dare you to come experience it for yourselves. I promise you that you will not go home the same person. It is impossible when you allow God to work in and through you.

Stay tuned to hear about another of the wonderful people God has blessed us with.

Home visit

2011-05-21T01:42:00.000+01:00

As my home visit is nearing an end I would like to say thank you to all the friends and family members who have hosted me, fed me and helped me in so many ways. Yes, it was successful. I attended and sang at my brother and Gloria's wedding, shared mother's day with my 88 yr old mother, witnessed our daughter's graduation from College, had the privilege of reporting to partner churches and gave numerous other presentations regarding our unique cafe. We are happy to announce that another church has joined our team as a regular monthly partner and several new contacts and potential partners were introduced to our YDM program. A retired couple (long-time friends of ours) have felt the stir to come to Namibia with some great ministry resources to share. They are making plans for an October arrival as I write this. So, yes, I would say this has been very successful overall. Don't stop praying for us. There is plenty of work ahead of us, but the support and backing is great and we are encouraged once again.

Happy or Sad

2011-05-10T17:29:00.000+01:00

It is Tuesday and today is a happy and a sad day. Today Julie left us to go back to the States and it we already miss her. Julie was such a blessing to us and we thank God, her and her parents for the time and selfless hours she gave to the Cafe and the students. We are happy that she was here with us for three months. We are happy that she was such a blessing. We are happy that the students loved her. I am happy because I beat her at cards (YEAH). We are sad because the three months went by to fast. We are sad because she became a part of the family and now she had to leave. We are sad because we do not know when we will meet again.

We are also happy because the students have completed their ten weeks of training. We started with ten and we only lost one student. On May 6th we had a celebration to reward them for their hard work. They did a great job. We are happy because every one of them has fulltime employment. Praise The Lord! God is so good. We are happy because we had an amazing braii (barbaque) and had some great food. We are sad because the training is done and now the students are not students anymore and we do not get to be together everyday.

The cafe was empty today without Julie or the students but God was still at work. I was very happy to meet a gentleman from South Africa who is visiting friends. We got to talking and he said I can tell you are a Christian. Now that is the greatest compliment I have ever gotten. He asked me to pray for his grandson who is in drug rehab. The man's heart was so broken for his grandson. I have had the privelge to pray for this young man all day long.

So today was a happy and a sad day but the happiness swallowed up the sadness and we had a great day. I do love when I get to be used by God. The funny thing is that He wants to use us everyday but we are often to busy to even hear Him. May God bless you and may your happiness swallow your sadness.

Feeling Their Pain

2011-04-30T15:50:00.000+01:00

We have just completed week nine of the training program with our nine students and it has been an incredible time. The best part of ministry is getting to work with His children. Each day is a gift and a new opportunity to share the love of Christ with them.

Over the last nine weeks we have developed a place of safety. It is because of that sense of security that many of these young people have openned their hearts, and some for the first time in a long time, and have shared some very personal stuff.

In the last nine weeks we have laughed with them and we have cried with them. For me, I think I get to experience a little piece of what our Father in heaven feels. Sometimes I ask how He can handle it and I know that I will never understand the full depth of His love until I am with Him in heaven.

This past week, some news from two of the students affected us all. One had their home broken into and had most of their belongings stolen. They have moved out of that place because they do not feel safe there anymore and are staying with another family member until they find a new place. Another student was beaten by the person who claimed to love her and then was then kicked out of the house with her child. She came to devotions crying.

We stopped and took time to talk with and pray for them. We thank God for providing a safe place for them to open up and share. We are doing what we can to help by providing food, looking for new places they can live, praying for and just loving them.

Both of these students are still deciding if they want to give their lives to Christ. Both have begun to go to church with other students who already attend churches in the community. Even though they have not said it out loud to me I know both are asking how God can allow such terrible things to happen. Both need your prayers.

As we talked through what has happened, the students got to share how they are feeling. It is wonderful to see those who already believe come alongside their classmates and show them love as well as reassure them of God's love. As painful as these things are to deal with they are opportunities for us to experience God in a real and personal way. I pray that God will help us to love them and to help them love themselves so that they can experience the love of God.

As we end this week I deal with my own pain. Today, the 30th of April, would have been my mom's 63rd birthday. I find it hard to believe it has been almost nine years since she went home to be with God. I sat and looked at her picture I keep in my Bible and felt the pain of losing her fresh in my mind and in my heart, but I feel joy knowing she is with her loving Father in heaven. I miss her so much and I look forward to the day we will be reunited.

Please pray for the students (Adam, David, Jeneritha, Jessica, Katrina, Selvia, Stella, Sylvia and Victory) and pray for us.

When God Shows Up

2011-04-15T13:32:00.000+01:00

This morning I decide to go to the Cafe early and do my devotions while having a nice cup of coffee. It was a sweet time just reading His word and listening to what God had for me. Julie showed up at about 7:30am and asked me if I had something for the devotion time with the students and staff. I sensed and saw that she had something to share with everyone today so I asked her if she wanted to and she said yes. Before the students came we just sat and talked. Tears were already forming in her eyes as she shared how God has been talking to her.

I knew God was already here and that the students and I were going to be blessed through what Julie had to share. As the students came in and took their seats around the circle, we said good morning and I asked who had something to share this morning. Then Julie announced that she did. She warned the students in advance that what she was going to share was not going to be easy and that she could not do it without crying. Tears were already rolling down her face.

I silently prayed for strength for her to be able to share what was on her heart. She shared about the condition of her heart towards God and others, and how she had not even realized how hardened she had allowed it to become because of several things that have happened to her. She shared how God was helping heal and soften her heart during her time here. Not many eyes were dry because her testimony was very powerful. She shared Isaiah 55 with us and explained the ways God spoke to her through the passage. God had given her that passage for us as well.

I knew God was working on more hearts in the circle. I felt prompted to ask if anyone else had anything to share and Sylvia raised her hand. My heart leaped in my chest. Sylvia is one of the girls who is still asking questions about God and her own relationship with Him. We had read Psalm 66 together yesterday and I had challenged each student to go home, read it again, and ask God to talk to them through it. Well, God talked to Sylvia in a big way. She began crying and in between tears she shared how God had been working in her life even when she was not following Him. She shared how she was involved in two different car accidents and how she should have been killed or seriously injured in both. She asked herself how she was able to walk away both times safely. Last night God told her that He was with her and that He had saved her.

God was not done yet. David another student shared how he had tried to take his life three times and how on the third time he made sure that he would not fail again, but God intervened. The wire, that he had so carefully constructed to do the job, broke. We thank God that he was not successful in taking his own life. David talked about how he knew it was God that had intervened in his life. David went on to encourage his fellow brothers and sisters in Christ to be serious about their relationship with the Father.

It was an amazing time spent together. The presence of God was all around and it was hard to stop our time of devotion. We ended up opening the cafe late and customers were waiting outside the gate as we hurried to set the tables and get ready.

God, I thank you for all that you are doing in the lives of your children and I thank you for allowing me to be a part of all you are doing. It is an amazing journey that I look forward to each day.

Being His Hands and Feet

2011-04-14T17:29:00.000+01:00

It is incredible to be a part of what God is doing. We have begun our seventh week of training with the nine students in our program. Getting to share life with them is the best way to show the love of our wonderful Father. Today, during our time of discipleship, we were talking about the role of the church. It was a very good discussion; we talked about how Christ is the head of the church and how we make up the body.

We were talking through verses such as Romans 12:4-8. Such verses help show them that they each have a gift and that their gift is not just for them, but for the church. We talked about what the gifts are and how we can use them. It was exciting to see their interactions with each other.

We discussed for a long time why it is important to be a part of a local church. I was asked this question: "How do I find a church where the people, who call themselves Christians, will not judge me with their eyes and the looks on their faces as I walk into the church?" This was and continues to be a tough question to answer.

As a Christian I cringed when this question came up because it is so true of many churches today. We may not even realize we are doing it, but if we are honest we have to acknowledge that it happens. We see someone that comes in and if they do not fit what we feel a "Christian" should look like we do not even approach that person. I know I have been guilty of it.

As I looked into Jessica's eyes I could see the longing to belong and pain so called "Christians" have caused. There is so much pain that she is afraid to step inside a church. I asked God for help and then shared that the best thing to do is to ask one of her friends, who go to church, if she could go with them. That way she will not be alone. I also told her that I would personally bring her to church if she would like to go.

My heart broke looking into her eyes and I felt the heart of God at that very moment. I ask myself how can God bear such incredible pain and suffering from so many of His children? The heartbreak I feel for her and others is almost unbearable. I thank God for the opportunity to pour His love into these precious children of His and pray that I can help them in their relationship with him who loves them so much.

Each day here is a gift and I look forward each morning to how God will use me. Pray that God will continue to give us the strength we need each day. Pray for the students we are blessed to work with. Pray that they will develop a relationship with their Father who loves them. Pray that they will become disciples.

The Reward - changed lives!

2011-02-15T14:55:00.010+02:00

We made a special meal. We called it "the last supper." After carrot cake was washed down with coffee, one by one we acknowledged the students, gave out certificates of completion, shook hands, prayed over them, embraced, took pictures and they walked out of the cafe with a bounce and a spark of hope. It makes us proud, yes. Keep praying for them and for us as we open the application process next week and welcome more candidates for the program. Pictured here are the five students who completed the program . The other picture is with Tony, Catherine, and original staff - Rosalia, Susanna, and Johannes.

New Partnership!

2011-01-29T13:14:00.003+02:00

Susanna, pictured here is one of our cooks at the cafe. BC (before cafe) she was our housekeeper and now she works at the cafe instead. We have another cook, and have just added two of our students to our payroll. Yes, we are that busy! Nice, eh?

This exciting adventure has brought us to a whole new level! Here we are, directing a Youth Discipleship and Mentoring program, operating a small cafe, serving breakfasts, lunches, and home-baked goodies with GREAT coffees. That would be enough to keep us content and fulfilled, but God has added a bonus. Closwa, #2 Billtong company in South Africa is based here in Okahandja and the executives have taken a keen interest in our program. They are offering a three-month employment contract to the students who complete our program. Can you believe that? The Lord has sent us so many people near and far who have not only expressed enthusiasm for what we are doing, but have gone above and beyond by contributing to what we are doing - either financially, practically or in this case, offering employment. There's no way we could employ everyone who completes our program, and the students are aware of that. You can imagine that while they are happy for the training, they wonder, "What will I do after this training is over? Will I find work then?" With unemployement at about 50% this offer is such a great opportunity. When the GM of Closwa came and announced this offer to the students, they were overwhelmed. We are still pinching ourselves to make sure we are awake. Check out the Closwa website: http://www.closwa.com/

Remember the Children

2011-01-19T14:31:00.003+02:00

Three of the attendees in our program have a child and are unmarried. None of them have employment which makes it very challenging to meet the responsibilites of parenthood. Pictured here is Joseph and his little angel, Joy. Isn't she adorable? She is entering grade one this year and the YDM program has helped with her school expenses along with 7 others related to this program - some are younger brothers or sisters of attendees. It brings us pleasure to help in this way. The government schools here require school tuition as well as uniforms, and of course, books, and supplies. Cost for one child per year is about $75 US, about N$1000. For unemployed parents, it's nearly impossible without some sort of sponsorship either from relatives or someone with a BIG heart! So, thank you to all our partners for helping with schooling these 8 little ones.

2011-01-12T13:15:00.003+02:00

Renovating the cafe during the holiday break. Cleaning the kitchen exhaust fan which was gunky and disgusting. Adding a cement step at the entrance for customer safety. Installing a new stove and grill top. Installing the large sign on the building wall (shown in picture). Some of the program attendees helped us and some other young men we have worked with in the past as well.

Training in hospitality, discipleship and personal encouragement continues to fill our lives. An extra side benefit is getting the chance to contribute to the school of the little ones related to our program attendees and staff. You see - your finances are being stretched in ways you didn't expect. Each one we can help gives these families a boost.

Meet more students!

2011-01-11T17:23:00.006+02:00

Here are the rest of the program attendees. We are about half way through the program. The first half focuses on biblical foundations, and the basics of restaurant work - hosting, serving, and customer service. The second half will continue the spiritual development and along with the restaurant skills, more language and math exercises, add computer skills. Thanks to our friends in Germany, we now have three fully functioning laptops and the students are all ears and eyes as they experience the wonderful world of technology. What fun to see their eyes light up and the smiles and giggles as they manage their way around the computer world. Here are some more pictures too. As you read the bios, you can see for yourself.

Dirk at age 28 is one of the elders in the group. He also speaks three languages – Nama-Damara, Afrikaans, and English. He is born and raised in our sleepy little town of Okahandja, and now lives alone. Dirk completed grade 10 in Secondary school, and then began working to help support the family.

His goals? “Growth in Christ, and my desires to have a good job.” In answer to the question about his personal faith in God, he answers, “I don’t know whether I am a Christian but my life changed totally. I see things different now that I started knowing God.” What has he learned from the program this far? “The word of God, and how to love someone. To humble myself and to be patient when I do something or when something happens to me.”

Manfred age 20 speaks Damara, Afrikanns, and English. He was born in Gobabis. Yes, he and Ulrich are related – they are brothers. His goals are very ambitious – “to run my own business, and a desire to join the tourism industry.”

His hobbies? He likes to play soccer, swim, and socialize. He accepted Christ into his life at the age of 18, when he saw how happy his Christian friend was. So he made up his mind and started following Christ too.

What has he learned so far in the program? He answers, “I learn how to host, receive customers, sit customers, and serve customers. I learned a lot about spiritual life. I learned the importance of working in a cafe.”

Joseph (pictured lower center of group picture) is 25 years old and speaks English, Afrikaans, Damara Nama, and Otijiherero. He has completed grade 10 and held a couple of jobs and lives on his own.

His goal is to become a good business man and “to do his own business like auditing, and management.”

His hobbies: Eating, cooking, playing.What has he learned so far in the YDM program? “I learn how to communicate and serve customers, and learn more about the Bible.”

Patronella is 19 years old and speaks English and Afrikaans. She lives in Okahandja with her mother and father and four siblings. She has completed grade 10 and has a desire to work hard and be the best server at the cafe.

When asked, “How is your life different now since you’ve been in this program? She replied, “It’s easy for me to know how to pray now and because I never pray in my life before.”

In her own words: “I learned how to pray, to serve for people and that Jesus died for my sin on the cross in the program and how to welcome people.”

Zu-beira is 18 years old and speaks Afrikaans and English. She was born in Okahandja, Namibia and has a younger brother and sister. She has completed school through grade nine. Since entering the YDM program her step-father and mother have both passed away. Life has been challenging for this young woman, but she has continued to attend the program and is trying to better her circumstances. Zu-Beir and her sister and brother now live with her Aunt and Uncle. Her goal: “...to work hard to learn how to become a successful business woman.”

When asked what she has learned so far in the YDM program she replied, “To be polite and friendly; how to communicate with people around me and to serve customers and I have also learned about our Lord and his powerful Word.”

Thanks to all who have contributed to this terrific program. We are enjoying the challenge, and already see positive results.

Thank you

2010-12-28T11:01:00.003+02:00

It's a pleasure. That's the usual response to "Thank you" in Namibia. Where do we start? How can we possibly thank everyone who is making this Cafe a huge success? Let us just feature one friend - our artist, musician, buddy - Julius. Thanks to him - we have signage. Really cool, artsy signs. The original picture came from our Dutch daughter, Annelies's camera, and Julius put it to paint and board. Voila!

Meet the Students

2010-12-28T10:56:00.001+02:00

Pamela is 20 years old and speaks Afrikaans, Damara and English. She was born in Windoek, Namibia and lives with her mother and two year old daughter.

Her goal: “I want to become a best server at the restaurant to be a successful server.”

On November 10, 2010 Pamela entered the YDM program and after hearing the gospel message - made a decision to follow Christ and become a Christian. In her own words, “I see how He helped me. He opened my eyes to let me know that He will be there always.”
When asked how her life is different now, she replied, “Oh yes, now I know how to pray and talk to him. I learn more when I go to Church.”

Meet the Students

2010-12-16T14:38:00.003+02:00

We are putting a little bio together for each of the students in the Youth Discipleship and Mentoring Program. Here is the first one. This young man has shown exceptional effort and determination to succeed in spite of physical disabilities and harsh family circumstances. Several years ago he was in a severe car accident and spent months in rehabilitation, lost several fingers in his left hand and walks with a limp. But, we are impressed with his heart to serve.

Meet Ulrich.
Ulrich speaks Damara Nama, English, and Afrikaans.
He was born in the city of Gobabis in the eastern region of Namibia.
There are 5 children in His family from ages seven to twenty-five years old.
He lives with his mother and siblings. Ulrich has completed grade 12 with good marks, and has held several jobs locally during the past few years.
His goals in his own words, “I would love to be able to support my family and go to university and one day become a successful business man. Just be a better me.
His hobbies: I enjoy drawing pictures, writing poetry and songs, writing short stories, and swimming, working crosswords and reading.

When asked what he has learned in the first 5 weeks of the YDM program, he gave this answer: “I have learned to put faith in what I yet haven’t seen. I learned to be patient and how to thank the Lord for everything he is doing in my life but most importantly I started having more and more confidence in myself. simply put – I learned to live again.”

The place is hopping!

2010-12-10T10:21:00.003+02:00

Garden cafe is a novelty in town and the word is spreading. With this hot weather, a frappe or smoothie sounds very refreshing and so the story goes..... people are coming to get refreshed.

Our students in this picture are pausing for a little breakfast.

The Trotters came for a short but sweet visit and brought precious words of encouragement from our church family. We cherish those friendships!

We thank the Lord for his provision for supplies and funds to continue the plans for the cafe. We are more equipped and business is growing as well as the workers improving their skills. God is good!

Ready to Refresh

2010-11-20T10:37:00.003+02:00

Just completed one week of training and already we are encouraged. Today is our grand opening and we have three trainees working and doing great! Every morning we begin the day with devotions and Bible study, followed by vocational and practical training. The students are growing and discovering their weakness and strengths and willing to work on those weaknesses. That's half the battle - recognizing and then being willing to do something to improve and better yourself. We all need that, right?

Dutch apple pie on the menu is a big favorite! It looks good enough to eat, eh?

Can you smell the espresso?

2010-11-16T18:04:00.002+02:00

Yes! We are open and even though business is slow at the moment, it's ok. We are getting into the grove. Baked goods are ready, and the coffee master (Tony) is getting faster at making those lattes. The first day of training with eleven students, three made a decision to follow Christ. We are rejoicing at the opportunity that the Lord has given us to disciple these precious young people. They are eager to learn and have great potential. We see a couple who could easily move into a management role at the Garden Cafe in a few months time. Oh! By the way – it’s official! We have been approved as “The Garden Cafe.” Finally!

Our Grand Opening is scheduled for this Saturday, 20 November. We sure appreciate your prayers as we welcome the community into our oasis of peace and refreshment. So far the brownies and cinnamon rolls have been top sellers! Although the banana muffins are surprisingly popular as well. One woman whispered in my ear, “I don’t even like bananas, but that muffin was great! (Thanks, Connie Abendschein). We have set up a small Christmas tree and have a handmade wire cross on the wall below the scripture, “He who pursues righteousness and love finds life, prosperity and honour.” God is celebrated in this cafe! No apologies!
We have much to be thankful for. We move into our own little apartment tomorrow and get to unpack our personal things and make it home. The Lord is giving us strength each day for the new things we are learning about running a small business. So many people near and far have contributed to this venture and we truly are blessed!

We will take pictures of customers and trainees soon. Keep your eyes open!

No longer homeless

2010-11-09T10:49:00.004+02:00

(I wrote this a few days ago - and forgot to post it) Packed up with nowhere to go! That was my status a few days ago. The strange thing was – I wasn’t stressed like I expected to be. I surprised myself, really. People that helped us pack and clean even commented, “You look so calm.... you aren’t worried about where you’re going to live?”

Three days later. As we sit resting in our friend’s very nice little granny flat, we are happy to say that God has provided every need ... and then some.
Not only have they welcomed us to stay with them for these four weeks, but they will not accept any payment for our stay which includes laundry and housekeeping services. Do you see what I mean about above and beyond our needs. We just looked at a flat that is available in 30 days. It’s one bedroom and a tiny kitchen, living area and bathroom, a nice size covered carport (perfect for running space for Bella), and the price is within our budget!

Tomorrow we sign the rental agreement and put a deposit down on the flat. We are now free to focus our attention on the training cafe. Thank you for your prayers and support. We have received so many words of blessing and encouragement from friends near and far. Although these are uncharted waters for us, we feel the powerful wind of the Spirit filling our sails and guiding each step.

Our needs at the moment are to equip and set up the cafe. We are in negotiations with a coffee supplier for the espresso machine, and waiting for the answer from the catering company for other items. Our target date for opening is November 15th. Can it be done? To be continued....

Grand Opening

2010-11-08T19:23:00.004+02:00

The Garden Cafe is becoming a reality! Can you believe it? Things have developed and progressed quickly and the doors just opened up in a miraculous way - we can't even tell you all the details, there are just too many. Here's the reader's digest version.

We knew that our time here wasn't over yet when the position with Christ's Hope ended. We were not sure how all the details would fall into place, but we were sure that those young people that we have been discipling still needed care. Our leadership role in our church here was not over either. There was just too much that was started and beginning to grow and it wasn't the time to walk away. It would have been like leaving a building with only the foundation laid, or not finishing sewing a dress when you just had the pattern cut out. It just wasn't sitting right with us - in our spirit as well as in our minds. The more we prayed we felt God leading us to continue what we started and what we are good at - discipleship. Mentoring was added to that as well, when we realized that too many young people here have little to no hope for a future. Why? Because they don't have the grades to make it into futher education - and most times - they don't have the money either. Also, because they have poor language skills and no practical skills. Computer training is available - for a huge cost. Trade skills are available - again at a cost. Most families just can't afford it. Like I said - little to no hope.

The owner of the building where the cafe lives, is the father of a good friend of ours, from our church. The rent is very reasonable and the location is right in the middle of this quaint little town. The cafe is designed not only as a "coffee house" but it's a training center for those with no idea what to do. Without higher education or at least excellent grades they won't get a job anywhere in town. We are giving them an opportunity to be trained in restaurant skills - such as customer service, table waiting, kitchen prep cook. Today was the first day we accepted applications for the program. We were blown away .... as we counted the applications at the end of the day. Twenty six interested in the program! Several arrived before the hour advertised and impressed us with their desire and drive to complete the process successfully.

There are still a few details to be worked out - but we are encouraged by large donations from a local businesswoman, a computer programmer from Germany, and several of our own partners. The local pastors and community leaders are talking to young people they know about the program and supporting us. Well, this is getting too long, really. Let me just add a few more pictures. We have a flyer going up this weekend to announce the grand opening - November 15th. Please pray for us, and for this community. We are playing christian music at the cafe and our Dutch daughter, Annelies painted Proverbs 21:21 on one wall . There is no hiding that we are a faith-based program. Pray that more people will step up and offer their skills and services to lift young people up and out of hopelessness. With God - all things are truly possible!

Coming soon - TheGarden Cafe

2010-10-25T22:20:00.004+02:00

Life is about changing, the country song says. Well, we are experiencing change at the moment that is giving us more than a fair share of challenge. Saturday we hosted an information coffee and invited local pastors, community leaders and interested friends. We shared the vision for the cafe - that we were not just opening another coffee shop, but that the purpose is to train young people in restaurant skills. There wasn't the big turnout that we had hoped for, but everyone who came took our brochure and information to pass on to others, so that's a good sign. We still have some equipment to purchase before we can open our doors to the public, so we are hoping that within a couple of weeks we will have what we need to host a grand opening. Please pray - we need a good espresso machine, and we need other kitchen equipment, such as an oven to bake our delicious specialties. Training has already begun. We have two women who are learning to bake, and one young man who is keeping the grounds neat and tidy. We have a staff! (kind of)

2010-09-21T10:28:00.004+02:00

It has been so long since we have posted pictures and info that we decided to post a few pictures and some quick notes.

Our youngest daughter Nici has been with us for over two months now and we are having a great time together. She has helped with children's work, tutoring older students, taught the children at church, and has helped us with our work in many ways.

Three weeks ago our dog, Bella surprised us with 13 puppies. That's right. She isn't able to produce enough milk to go around so we are helping by bottle feedings 4 times a day. Ugh! So cute, yes, but so much work.

Recently we had the joy of hosting an evangelist from the states who attends my parents church - The Connection in Poway. George Elias brought us lessons on Evangelism and Discipleship and spoke all over Okahandja - challenging and teaching with passion. We believe that there will be much fruit as a result of his obedience to come and share.

Our home church, Lifebridge sent a team in July which escorted our Nici to us, and they were involved in tons of ministry throughout the 10 days that they were in country.

2010-09-21T10:08:00.003+02:00

About three years ago, when we were preparing to come here, we told you we would commit to two years and asked you to partner with us. As we evaluate and pray about our future we do not feel that we are being released from our service here in Okahandja, Namibia. On the contrary we feel that we are being called to stay for another year or two. Since you are our partners, we feel it’s important for you to understand what God is doing and where He is leading us.

As you know, we have been serving with Christ’s Hope International and have been blessed in so many ways through our work there. Recently, we realized that the Lord is opening doors for ministry outside the scope and vision of Christ’s Hope, and therefore, we have submitted our letters of resignation and are preparing for the new journey that He has for us. Our last day with Christ’s Hope International will be September 30^th, 2010.

What is the new journey? Well it is building on the relationships we have with the local churches, other likeminded Christian organizations, and the local government to reach a section of society that has been neglected. The people we are referring to are young people who for whatever reason are unable to complete school and who are unemployed. These youth end up on the streets, stealing to survive, living off other family members, and have little hope for a future.

What is the plan to help them? Through our partnership with the entities above we will be opening a small restaurant, the Garden Cafe. The idea is to work with the local churches and schools to identify young people who want to make a difference in their lives. Those who are recommended to the program, will be interviewed, fill out an application and will agree to go through a one year internship program. The training program will include basic restaurant skills, as well as fundamentals of reading and writing English, but most importantly -- we will go through an extensive discipleship program with them. Upon successful completion of the program we would help them prepare a resume and guide them through the process of finding a job.

This is a great opportunity, but a huge undertaking and we realize that much prayer, practical support and good old fashioned work is required to make this a success. Every person we have shared the program with has verified that it is much needed and will be well received – from the government and town officials on down to the young people themselves. This program will improve the level of training and education for the students, promote community involvement by having the churches and school officials participate, and bring a strong sense of personal integrity and mutual respect within the community.

If you are interested in contributing financially or in any other way to this new program, please contact us and we would be happy to work with you.

2010-04-29T12:50:00.001+01:00

Recently Clinton told us about a young man (let’s call him Joe) he knows from the neighbourhood. Joe had been on the streets for some time. He doesn’t know his father and his mother is trapped by a life of alcoholism. From what we were told he was not wanted by extended family, so he was making his own way. That’s not uncommon here; there are many young people on the streets. What is uncommon is someone rescued him from a life of hopelessness. Clinton was moved to help this young man. Most poor people are not so generous. They are more likely to hoard what they have instead of sharing. It’s really a “protect my own” mentality.

As “head boy” of his school, Clinton was able to use his position to plead Joe’s case to the administration of the school. The results - this young man is now able to stay at the hostel as a guest of the school. We see this as very good news because that means that even those who are poor can reach out to others less fortunate than themselves. In the process of helping Joe with housing, Clinton talked with him about his spiritual life and Joe accepted Christ as his Saviour this week. On Easter Sunday Joe joined us for church and he stayed with us all that day and night too. We packed a snack bag for him as is our weekly custom for our other two boys (Clinton and Simon) before we brought them back to school the next day. Our family is growing!
Praise the Lord! You have been a part of this ripple effect, you know. We are seeing the second generation of seeds that were planted months ago. God is working in these young lives and we give Him all the glory.

Your financial support is giving us the freedom to feed and care for these young people whose parents just can’t for various reasons. It’s a pleasure to have them in our home. This month is the “winter” holiday for school kids, and Simon and Clinton will be taking a little time away to visit family. They are based at our house during weekends and holiday times like this and we enjoy these “extra” times with them. Simon will be travelling to the north to attend a ministry friend’s wedding as well as to visit his elderly grandmother. This will be only the second time he has been with his grandmother. Can you imagine? He is very excited to surprise her. Like I said, it’s a pleasure for us to help. It’s almost like watching dreams come true. Of course we have to pack some food for him.... Well, we can’t send him empty-handed, c’mon,... I’m Italian, remember? What I wouldn’t give for a Claro’s market around here!

Amazing Grace MMC 2010.MP4

2010-04-21T20:21:00.000+01:00

Mighty Mens Conference 2010

2010-04-20T20:37:00.006+01:00

I just returned from attending The Mighty Men's Conference led by Angus Buchan the author of Faith Like Potatoes. The conference was at his farm in Greytown, South Africa. What is the big deal about a men's conference? Well this one had at least 400,000 men gathered for one purpose - to worship and to hear from God. Yes, I said 400,000 men. You can look up Mighty Men Conference on YouTube. There are already several clips from people who attended.

I have to start by saying that this was an experience that I am still trying to fully absorb. Putting what I experienced into words is not going to be easy but I want you all to know what happened.

The conference ran from the 16th through the 18th of April, but my journey began on April 14th. I boarded a bus in Windhoek, Namibia and we traveled 950 miles. The trip took over thirty hours. The trip in itself was an adventure because I was on a bus with 58 other men all headed to the same conference. I was the only one on the bus who only spoke english. I was nervous, excited, frustrated, tired and totally out of my comfort zone. I did not know anyone on the bus. I had no idea how long it was going to take to get to South Africa and I was not in control. I do not do well under those circumstances but God was working on me. I got to know a few of the guys on the way down and I was beginning to feel more comfortable. We shared with each other and by the time we arrived in Greytown, South Africa I felt better about being with these men.

When we got to Greytown it took us another hour to get to the Buchan farm. As we drove on dirt roads we came over a hill and the site took my breath away. We were looking over the Buchan farm and there spread out before me were tents, cars, campers and people for as far as the eye could see. How can I help you understand the magnitude of what I saw? Well Petco Park holds 42,445 people. The number of men at this conference could have filled Petco park nine and a half times. I still cannot believe what I saw and I was there.

The first session began at 7 pm Friday night. We had to walk just over a mile from our campsite to get to the main stage. The stage was set up high with three huge video screens. In front of the stage were row upon row of hay bales and throughout the field there were huge towers with more speakers and more video screens. Word has it they had to run over 4 miles of cable to power everything.

We started with some praise songs and I have to tell you I glimpsed a piece of heaven. To hear over 400,000 men raising their voices in praise to God was beyond words. We were in a valley of sorts and you could hear the voices echoing off the hills. I know God was watching and had to have a tear of joy in His eyes as He watched that many men, His children, singing to Him. I was unable to sing at times and had tears streaming down my face. It was the most incredible thing I have ever experienced.

Then Angus Buchan came on stage. From where I was sitting he looked like an ant and I was pretty close to the stage. Angus expressed his being overwhelmed at seeing so many men. He then shared that the theme of the camp was about being Watchmen. He reference Ezekiel 3: 17-19 and as he recited the verses we knew that we were going to be challenged about being men of God. Angus did not share anything profound and it was all stuff we knew and heard before but his humility and his genuineness captured the hearts and the attention of the men. Angus did not hold back. He challenged every man there about being watchmen in their homes, communities, churches, work places and schools. That first night we consecrated ourselves and santified ourselves before God. Grown men were humbled before God and many for the first time. Men wept openly and prayed with and for each other. Men for the first time in their lives made public declarations of their faith. It was humbling and you could almost hear the angels rejoicing in heaven over each man that gave his life or rededicated his life to Christ.

After the first session we walked ove a mile back to our tent and I was so tired I just went to sleep. I woke up at three in the morning and could not get back to sleep so I got dressed and went for a walk. I walked between the rows of tents and just felt the presence of God over us. I looked and saw a layer of mist hanging over the camp which felt like God covering and protecting us. I prayed as I walked and praised God for what He was doing. I prayed over the men in attendance and then started walking back to our tent. As I was walking back I looked out again and I sensed that on the hills around the camp where His angels watching over us too.

Saturday was another day of challenge. The first session Saturday focused on our time with God. Angus felt God telling him we needed to be silent before the Lord so we all got on our knees in the field and bowed our heads and for five minutes we were not allowed to talk or move. Imagine 400,000+ men bowed before the Lord, silent, listening to hear from Him. I get goose bumps again just remembering it. You could have heard a pin drop. At the end of five minutes Angus said we could sit again but almost every man stayed on his knees. Angus then said that for some the five minutes went quickly and for others it felt like an eternity. Then he said that five minutes is no where near enough time to be in His presence. He challenged every man to spend an hour with the Lord alone every day. We then were released to have lunch and reflect on what we heard.

The evening session on Saturday was the largest crowd yet. We did not care about the media helicopters flying over head, we did not care that we were making history, we just wanted to praise our Father and hear from Him again through His servant Angus. This session was more for the fathers. Angus challenged the men to train up their boys to be men and then to release their boys to be men. Again nothing profound but straight to the heart. At the end of the session Angus asked fathers and sons to get together. I looked out over the crowd and saw fathers embracing sons. I saw them crying together and I was overwhelmed. I wept and rejoiced seeing fathers with their sons. Then Angus challenged the fathers again to release their sons to be men of God.

That night we went back to our tents exhuasted but full of the Spirit. We sang praise songs with those camped next to us and just enjoyed fellowship with each other. Men sang and shared openly for over two hours.

We woke up Sunday with excitement about the next session and with reluctance because this was the last session. Sunday the wives were invited to attend and Angus focused on speaking to the women. He outlined what the men had gone through and challenged the women to let their men be the watchmen of their homes. It was a short message and then we prayed together and it was over.

During each session Angus would say "Amen" as a war cry and the men would echo back loud and with everything they had as one voice. You can listen to the bits on YouTube and hear a sample but it does not do it justice. To hear over 400,000 men say "Amen" as we did and to hear it echoing off the hills around us... no words can do it justice. I can only imagine how our Father in heaven felt. I can see Him sitting proudly on His throne saying, "Those are my boys."

Angus challenged us to be the men God called us to be. He reminded us of our responsibilties and said that if each of the men in attendance kept their word to God then there is no way South Africa and the rest of the world would not be changed. I agree with that. I know that many of the men will go back and their lives will not change but I hope and I pray that those whose life was changed will go home and begin to make a difference.

Each man who is reading this, and who is a Christian we are each watchmen and we need to heed the words written in Ezikiel 3:17-19 "17 Son of man, I have made you a watchmen for the house of Isreal; so hear the word I speak and give them warning from me. 18 When I say to a wicked man, "You will surely die," and you do not warn him or speak out to dissuade him from his evil ways in order to save his life, that wicked man will die for his sin, and I will hold you accountable for his blood. 19 But if you do warn the wicked man and he does not turn from his wickedness or from his evil ways, he will die for his sin; but you will have saved yourself." To my brothers reading this, please do not let another man's blood be found on your hands. Stand up and be the watchman. Alone we can do nothing but together through Christ we are unstoppable and Satan and his legions must flee!

When you least expect it!

2010-04-17T12:31:00.003+01:00

I won't mention her name, but one of the volunteers here gave us a very nice card before she left. Her words caught us off guard. As we read tears filled our eyes. Her raw honestly and transparent sharing made us realize that we are having an impact on lives even when we are hanging out at home. It begs the question: "Who are you when the spotlight is off, and the audience leaves?" Here is an excerpt from her note to us:

"....I felt so lost and I think I lost my faith in true love. I needed proof from God that it is possible to be married and happy at the same time. And then I met you, I saw you interacting with each other, I saw your love for each other and I heard you, Catherine talking about your marriage in the Choose to Wait training. That all touched my heart and was exactly what I desperately needed. You made a difference in my life and the word. Thanks is not enough to express what it means to me!"

She is not Namibian and yet the Lord has used our relationship to encourage her in her faith and personal life. So... one never knows who is watching or listening. When you least expect it - God could use you to bless someone. Share the love my friends.... share the love!

Keep your eyes on this blog. I know when Tony returns from South Africa, he will have MUCH to share.

2010-04-05T09:20:00.002+01:00

Celebrating the Risen King!

2010-04-05T08:57:00.002+01:00

Some places still celebrate Easter. You know, the stores are closed on Good Friday, people go to church and it's not all about bunnies, baskets and egg hunts. Well, I wish I could say that the people of Okahandja understand and honor the true meaning of Easter, but I can't. However, the stores are closed and the whole town takes a long vacation from Good Friday to "Easter Monday," which is a public holiday. I am happy to report that the Duran's took some rest time as well. Clinton and Simon joined us on a family day outing to Swakopmund. Ah... yes... sitting on the beach (bundled with sweatshirt and towels), enjoying the gentle splashing of the sea! Heavenly! If you're wondering if the water is cold, you'll have to ask the boys. It was a first for Simon. He had never been in the sea before, so it was fun watching them catching waves. Clinton experienced his first go-kart racing. We laughed, played and got a little caught up in the competition, but all-in-all had a relaxing day in the sun, with the smile of the Son upon us. So nice!

Tony's Health Report

2010-03-22T15:43:00.002+02:00

After Tony's last blog, we had an honest heart to heart. It was difficult for him to hear, but I had to remind him that he is not getting younger. We were encouraged to have his eyes checked to see if his contact prescription is still accurate. He was challenged to drink more water. (it's still quite warm here). So, after seeing the Optometrist and hearing that the contacts are fine, we had to consider the questions that she raised during the examination. The key question: "Do you spend a lot of time at the computer?" Following that visit, we explored the possibility that he may need a pair of reading glasses for up close work, like computer and reading his Bible.

He looks really funny wearing my reading glasses, but he was humble enough to try them. The results? The past week, his headaches have been manageable - more "normal." There may still be some underlying issues such as chronic sinus problems, but at least we are moving in the right direction. Whew! That was a tough road to walk. Oh, in case you're wondering - I'm trying to catch a picture of him wearing my glasses, but.... well, he's just too quick for me!

His Timing and His Way

2010-03-13T11:39:00.001+02:00

I am sitting here Saturday morning at 10:36am trying to find the strength to press on. For the last two weeks or so I have been getting migraines. Today as I type it feels as if someone is stabbing a knife into my eyes and another through the base of my skull. It is a pain that I would not wish on anyone. In the past two weeks I have been bedridden three days because of the pain. Rest assured that on Monday I am going to go to the doctor.
I share about my headaches not to get sympathy but to let you know that He is always working. On the days I was stuck at home in bed I had a couple of my brothers in Christ come by and pray over me and encourage me. It is quite humbling to have these men come and pray for me. These are men we have been pouring into and to see them step up moved me so much that I cried after they left. I can only imagine what our heavenly Father felt seeing His children being His hands and feet.
He is my strength and He alone has given me strength when I do not feel like doing anything. Last Thursday I was asked to share with a group of young men about what salvation is and what baptism is. These are young men that have been identified by a sister organization here to be future leaders in their community. My head was pounding and I did not want to go but I had already missed one appointment to talk to these young men, and I was not going to cancel again. I prayed for His strength because I did not have it in me to speak.
We drove to the meeting place which was about 20 minutes from our house. When I got there I saw that we where meeting in the dried up riverbed. There was no covering and no chairs so we all sat on the ground. When we arrived it was sprinkling and only four of the ten young men had shown up. I prayed silently for His strength as I sat there on the riverbed with these young men and asked one of the boys to pray for our time together.
As I began sharing with these kids I felt and knew that God was with us and that He had caused the pain in my head to subside. I sent up a silent praise at His mercy. I presented what salvation was and how they could know when it was real in their lives. I then shared on what baptism is and the significance it plays in our walk with Christ. Then I answered questions for over an hour. I have to say that our young people are hungry for answers and they want us, their elders, to take the time to listen and answer their questions.
Some of the questions were tough and again I had to ask for His help and His strength. How do you answer a question that challenges their heritage and their culture? The questions they asked we have heard consistently since we have been here. Will I go to hell if I commit a sin and die before I get a chance to ask for forgiveness? Will I go to heaven if I have never been baptized? Do I have to be confirmed to be a Christian? Do I have to be confirmed to get married? What if my pastor does not live as he teaches us to live? How do I pray for someone I hate? On and on the questions came and the whole time I felt God speaking through me.
When we finished there were ten young men in the group. It sprinkled on and off the whole time but we stayed and talked and shared. It was an amazing time and I am glad I went. Being with these future leaders was encouraging to me and I had no idea that I had been an encouragement to them.
Their leader, one of the men I am mentoring, came to me later and said that the young men were surprised to see me come in the rain and then to sit on the ground with them. I did not think anything of it at the time. I just did what Jesus would do. I got down on their level so that I could be with them.
When I got home it was after 7:00pm and my head was killing me. God had sustained me through the whole time I was talking. Praise the Lord for allowing me to be the one He used to share with these young men.
I am learning and coming to realize that our walk with Christ is not just 9 to 5, it is 24/7. He wants us to be ready at all times to be His hands and feet. I continue to pray that He will shape me to be more like Him. Even though I am in pain I know that He is at work in me and through me.
Thank you for your prayers. I can honestly say that I have felt them and cherish them.

YWAM students filled my cup!

2010-03-05T15:06:00.004+02:00

While the week of teaching is still fresh in my mind and heart, I wanted to take a few minutes to post a brief report. Like last year, I was energized and filled up each day as the students soaked in the teaching of Choose to Wait. Most of them have heard some sort of teaching about Love and Sex, but ALL of them commented that THIS was different. It was my joy to present to them God's design for love, marriage and sex. We had some lively discussions, fun role-plays and dramas, and a few somber moments where I could sense the Holy Spirit was gently healing past wounds. Some had father wounds, others mother wounds, still others - relationship wounds. Their enthusiasm and interaction made it a pleasure for me. Several of these students are fresh out of High School and yet are so eager to strengthen their relationship with God and build their faith by submitting to the DTS (Discipleship Training School) training. It was inspiring to be with them, not just for the class time, but for tea time, meals and one-on-one visits. This week I met some GREAT young people (from Namibia, USA, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and England) and count it a privilege to have participated in their overall training. I have a deep respect for the staff of YWAM and the work they are doing with young people. The Spirit of the Lord was definitely at work in the hearts and minds of each one. One again, He proved His faithfulness. Thank you for your prayers.

Working 9 to 5

2010-02-20T18:41:00.002+02:00

Hello everyone!!! I cannot believe that it has been almost a month that we have been back in Namibia. The time seems to go by faster everyday. They do say time flies when you are having fun. Yes we are having fun.

It is 7:17pm on Saturday evening for us and we have had another full day. We are finding out that working in fulltime ministry means that we do not have regular working hours. Yes we have office hours from 9:00am to 5:00pm but that is only our office hours.

Our morning starts out with personal devotions and time with our Lord. We treasure our time in the morning with Him. We then pray with each other and have some breakfast and then it is off to work.

No two days are the same here. For example on Wednesday we were working in the office and we had someone pull up to the entrance. We were not expecting anyone so I went to see who was visiting us. It was a friend of ours (Gerrard) who works with Smaritians Purse. He is the country coordinator for Operation Christmas Child and is responsible for recieving all the shoe boxes that get delivered to children in Namibia.

We have 40 foot shipping containers on our property that they use to store the shoe boxes until they can be delivered to the children. Whenever Gerrard shows up I know he needs to get to the shoe boxes. Getting to the boxes is no small task though. To protect the boxes we have to weld the shipping containers closed that they are stored in. So to get into the container we need to grind off the bars.

Well when Gerrard got out of his car we greeted each other and got caught up on how each of our families were doing. I shared about our visit to the States and he shared all about the events that happened while we were gone. After getting caught up he informed me that there was another container arriving at 2:00pm, It was now 11:30am, and he needed help to unload the boxes from the truck and put them into the shipping container on our property.

I then made several calls and found six young men that I have worked with in the past to help us. I then went to pick them up at noon. Then I had to get the grinder, extentions cords, and the welder so we could reweld the container closed.

By 1:00pm I had the men and equipment we needed for the job and was heading over to the contaniners. When I get there Gerrard informed me that the truck with the boxes was running late and tells me that the truck will not arrive until around 7:00pm. It is now only 2:00pm.

I then take the six young men back to their homes and tell them I will pick them up at 6:45pm. I then go back to the office and work till 5:00pm and then go home to eat dinner, peanut butter and jelly because Catherine is at our weekly Bible study.

At 6:30pm I leave to go get the young men and we head back to the containers. We get there by 7:00pm and the guys are looking for the truck. Gerrard arrives and tells us the truck is running late and tells us it will be another hour. At 9:30pm the truck finally arrives. As it pulls up we see that the boxes are on a flat bed truck and the truck is full of boxes.

Each box is about 2 feet by 2 feet square and has approximately 10 shoe boxes inside. Each box ways between 25 to 40 pounds and did I tell you that there were over 400 boxes that had to be unloaded from the truck and loaded into the empty container?

The good thing is that is was late and it had cooled off quite a bit so it was not as hot. In less that one hour we had unloaded the truck and loaded them into the container and welded it shut. I was so tired and sore. My body was reminding me that I am not 20 years old anymore but I had kept up with the young men. I think they were suprised that I was able to keep up with them.

I then took the young men to their homes and then headed back to our house. I got home at 11:30pm. I crawled into bed and was up early the next morning to see what new adventures that day would bring.

I am learning how to be flexible and to be patient and you that know me know how much I dislike when things do not happen as planned. The time we had to wait though was time to speak into the lives of the six young men and to encourage them. God's timing is always better than my timing.

Each day is different and I have learned to make my plans in pencil because God often edits my plans to coordinate with His. I do love His sense of humor. Seriously though I love how He is helping me to become more like Him. The more He is in me the more these young men get to experience Him.

Thank you for your prayers and your support. You are with us each day and are making a difference in our lives and in the lives of so many here. God Bless!!!!

Remember Sunday Dinners?

2010-02-04T12:07:00.003+02:00

We are finding a simple routine here in Okahandja, trying to prioritize and remember that we are here to build relationships and people for the glory of God. It sounds simple, doesn't it? But we find that it requires deliberate attention and planned action on our part. Now that we have resumed our positions in the International Office, we have regular office hours, which makes it more difficult to have ministry outreach in the afternoons. That leaves evenings and weekends. Not a problem. Our Namibian boys, Clinton and Simon are with us on Saturdays working around the house, helping with various projects and hanging out. On Sundays, the boys meet us at church and afterward we have family dinner. OK, it's not like the Sunday dinners I grew up with - pot roast and potatoes (that cooked in the oven while we were at church), or delicioso meatballs and spegetti, but it has become our tradition here. We pick up some ready-roasted chickens at the local store deli, make some home fries and salad and enjoy! Who has time to spend over a hot stove these days? Oh, did I mention that I'm the new Worship director at our church? Yeah.... well, it's a long morning and I appreciate the break from kitchen duty. Since our return we have added another young man to our sunday dinner - Jeremiah, a senior in High School. The last day of our August youth camp Jeremiah shared that he has been changed on the inside, and we can see by his behavior since then that it is genuine. He walks to church every Sunday, Tuesday evenings for worship team practice, and Wednesday evenings for cell group. In the group photo he is pictured on the far left with a big smile. Brick by brick, we are building the character of God - and He is growing big in each of them.

Mom's in touch has always been a big part of my life when my own kids were growing up. There are no women's ministry in most of the churches here. A lot of the women work, if they can get work. I have no idea how many women are available or willing to come, but I feel we need to offer some mom support. I know it meant so much to me when I was there. So, this week, Susanna (neighbor and housekeeper, sister and friend) and I are beginning a MIT group in our home. This is a brand new idea here - so we are very excited. I'll let you know how it goes in a few weeks. Stay tuned.....

Some Trip!

2010-01-23T21:26:00.002+02:00

Here's our beautiful family - in case you haven't seen this picture yet. Left to right: Tony and Catherine, Johnny and Erin, Nathan and Jordan, Nici, James and Malia in the back and Krista and Dave front right. So much fun to all be together. It was short but oh so sweet!

So.... how was the trip to Namibia? Well....

It took 24 hours to get us out of San Diego! For goodness sake. The rains caused havoc at the airport. Planes were delayed all the way up the coast. Our trip originally was San Diego to San Francisco, San Fran to London, London to Johanesburg, and Jo-burg to Namibia. Then.... the rains came and the wind blew... and the delayed plane from SF meant that we would miss our London flight. So... we had a very nice United agent re-book us and we stayed in SD another night and left the next day for LAX, then took the evening flight out for London. While waiting at the airport in LAX, I had a very lovely conversation with a woman on her way to visit her son and daughter-in-law and their new little one. It was fun chatting with this new grandmother who was so anxious to see her very first grandchild - daughter of her only son. We shared some of our joys and concerns as parents and grandparents, relating funny stories and personal testimonies. About ten minutes into the conversation she dragged out of me that we were missionaries on our way back to Namibia and heard my heart for reaching the lost with the gospel message. She shares our faith in Christ and was delighted to meet us! Not only did that help pass the time, but it reminded me that we are truly on a mission and many other believers are standing with us in prayer as we press on. We were seated in the exit row on the flight to London, thanks to the kind United agent in SD. Yeah! Tony had room for his legs for once! (Well, I always feel badly for my hubby. His knees literally push into the seat in front of him). It still isn't so easy to sleep, but at least we were able to move around and we were right next to the toilets. Good news for me. The 12 hour flight to London was a bit bumpy, but we handled that ok. In London the following morning was a challenge getting our way through customs and through the terminal, finding the right gate for our Johannesburg flight that evening. We always appreciate the opportunity to walk a couple of miles pulling our luggage through unfamiliar territory while our bodies are screaming... "What are you thinking? Can't you see I'm trying to sleep!"

The flight from London to Johannesburg is about 10 hours and again our seats were in the exit row - very nice to have extra space. Lastly, the flight from Jo-burg to Namibia is another 2 hours. So, by the time we reached Namibia, we were literally walking in our sleep - totally. But... !!! We did make it along with all our luggage. No problems with customs and no problems with tickets or anything else. The only thing that would have made it really sweet... was if we would have been bumped to first class on one of those long legs! Maybe one day. All things are possible. Thanks for all the safe travel prayers!

Celebrating!

2010-01-13T04:11:00.003+02:00

Just about two months ago we set foot on USA soil, after being in Africa for about a year. So many things have changed and so much has happened that we are still spinning from all the activity and info. My goodness!

The pictures will tell the story much better than my words, but let me summarize. First, we are thankful that our house is now re-rented. After days and days of repairs, painting and cleaning, we were able to acquire new renters before the end of the year. That's a big praise! Then, Christmas happened! Getting to play and party with family and friends filled our days and nights. Visiting a different church each weekend allowed us to report and share with partners what God is doing in our ministry outreach in Namibia. We are so thankful for all who make it possible for us to do what we do without stressing about paying our bills or putting food on our table.

A highlight for me (Catherine) was playing and singing with our daughter Krista's band, "Stonetrain" at Capri Blu New Year's eve. It was a blast!

The day after Christmas James (our youngest son) proposed to his girlfriend, Malia! We are going to be parents-in-law again! How cool is that! More celebrating and pictures and smiles and tears of joy!

It's hard to believe that we are now packing our bags to return to the "mission." But, the time has come and we are anxious to see our Namibian family and resume our work there. Thank you to everyone who welcomed us and hosted us and made us feel warm and fuzzy inside. Our tanks are full with joy and love! Bless you all!

Father's Heart

2009-12-08T04:01:00.003+02:00

When we left for Africa we heard God telling us that we needed to focus on developing relationships. In the 18 months that we have served in Africa we have done just that. It is in building those relationships that we have met some wonderful people.

We have been in the States now since the 2nd of November and have been sharing in churches and with friends what God has been doing through us in Africa. On the 29th of November we had the privilege to share with our home church – Lifebridge Church in San Diego, where we were asked to give the message at all three services.

The message we shared with our church family was the same message we have been sharing with the young people in Africa. God wants to have an intimate, personal relationship with them. In fact 1 John 3:1 tells us, “How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God!” We shared that this has not been easy because most of the young men and women we are working with have no idea what a loving father is. For the majority of them, their earthly father has either abandoned them, abuses them, and/or is drunk most of the time. The words “love” and “Father” just don’t fit together for them.

These young people have been so wounded that we have had to earn their trust and only then are we able to share with them what love is supposed to be. It has been amazing to see these kids finally get it - that God wants to be their Father and He wants to have a loving relationship with them. Through our relationship with them they are beginning to understand what real love is. And as they watch us caring for one another they see what a loving husband and wife looks like. This simple but powerful message, both spoken and acted out, allows them to realize that it does not matter what they have been through or what they will go through but that God will always love them unconditionally.

During one of the services I shared about the youth camp we held. On the final night of the youth camp we gave the kids the opportunity to receive a fathers blessing. There in the front of the small chapel, we wrapped our arms around them one by one, prayed over them and loved on them – crying with them and speaking encouragement into their hearts. The students left that camp empowered by the love of the Father, with healing for their wounded hearts, and hope for their future. After I shared this story with our church I challenged the fathers to give their children a fathers blessing. Young people everywhere, regardless of their address or color of skin need to hear encouragement from their father. They need to hear that they are loved and valuable, that someone believes in them.

Just the other day, we heard the report that one father went home after church and bought his family together and gave his entire family a fathers blessing. We pray more fathers take this message to heart and act upon it.

It is amazing to be a part of what our Father is doing and we are even more convinced that the message He has given us to share is not just for Africa but it is for all of us. We are grateful to be able to share His love with so many from different cultural backgrounds, different languages, and people groups. We know that the message of God’s love is universal, and pray that each of you reading this will open your heart and allow Him to lavish His love on you!

International Travel

2009-11-01T21:38:00.003+02:00

Another new experience for us - traveling through Europe. Ok.... train schedules are different than airplane schedules, and bus and tram schedules are a little different from each of those. Plus, we can't speak or read either Dutch or German. Help! Lucky for us there are nice people everywhere and we have received compassion wherever we go. First we took a few days and toured in Holland, being hosted by the most gracious and generous folks in the world. Next we traveled to Germany and met friends of our oldest son, Nathan. What can I say? They are gracious and generous too and went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and comfortable. God has truly blessed us and we have enjoyed the country and people we have met in Europe. A great "first trip to Europe" experience with many happy memories. Thank you Gerard, Annelies, Conrad, Kris & Bianca! We will share some pictures, but it is so true - pictures don't do it justice.... you gotta go!

News and Notes

2009-10-16T10:19:00.004+02:00

I can't believe that it's been over a month since our last blog. My, my things get so busy around here, I've lost track of time! Busy doing what? You might be asking. Well, let me give the brief version.

The middle of September we took our youth drama team with us for a youth outreach in the town of Gobabis. We were so proud of our team. They not only sang, danced and performed dramas, but they mingled with the young people, helped set up and tear down equipment and kept a servant's attitude the entire time. Several of them shared some of their own story with the group which brought tears to my eyes. The Lord reminded me that HE is busy doing His work in the lives of these young people, even when I don't hear about it or see it with my eyes. Just sometimes He lets us hear and see and I can't tell you the joy that filled my heart. Thank you Lord. You are good!

Next event was another Choose to Wait training. We started on a Saturday, continued Sunday evening and all day on Monday and Tuesday. Whew! Most of the attendees were either Christ's Hope staff or volunteers in our children's homes. It's always encouraging for me to hear the comments after these trainings. This one from one of the Children's home Auntie: "I wish I would have heard this message years ago... before I made some very poor choices. I want to teach my own children this message."

We were busy the last few weeks completing the curriculum for clubs and classes and having the usual end of the year parties. School year ends in November here, by the way. Then, we ended with a "Parent's Night." We invited parents, teachers, school staff, and the students to come together and celebrate the completion of the Choose to Wait course. We showed pictures, shared testimonies, let the drama team perform, and challenged the students to sign the purity pledge if they were prepared to make that commitment. Some signed privately, but I think about 12 made the commitment and signed. We prayed a special blessing on them and enjoyed a time of fellowship and refreshments together. Two school's principals attended and expressed their appreciation for the work we are doing and wanted more information. More awareness and more exposure - that's what we like to see!

Now we are saying goodbye as we travel home. It's always difficult to say goodbye even when you know that you are returning. Three months away from those whom you are teaching and mentoring is a long time. Please pray for them as they need help to be strong in their commitment and decisions to live a life that pleases God.

Sew and Swim

2009-09-08T11:08:00.003+02:00

This was "Spring Break" for our students. After camp we had several more days of holiday and wanted to add a little more fun. Our friend, Linda Frodesen, arrived two days after camp and we put her right to work. Friday and Saturday she conducted sewing classes for some of our camp girls. What fun! I'm not sure who had more fun - Linda or the girls. There were seven of our girls who came and the pictures tell the rest of the story. None of them had ever used a sewing machine before, but they learned quickly and soon had a finished product to take home with them. They were so proud of their little bags. The comment was repeated, "Now, we're going to town." At first I thought they really were going to town so I offered to drop them off in town. Then, they all laughed, "We don't have any money.... we just look like we're going to town." They are adorable!

Thank you Lord

2009-09-08T11:02:00.003+02:00

Youth camp was a great success and we felt very good about the entire experience. We stepped out in faith big time asking for sponsorship for the camp. Have you ever felt so strongly that something was just right - you have to take a leap and make this happen? Well, raising thousands of dollars for youth camp sponsorship was like jumping off the cliff to us. But.... of course.... our wonderful partners listened and responded with compassion and love and many young people experienced the Father's love like never before in their lives. THANK YOU! We are still flying high.

Heart of the Father

2009-09-01T16:29:00.002+01:00

From Thursday August 27th to Sunday August 30th we hosted a youth camp. The theme of the camp was “Hearts on Fire”. Our focus was to help the kids understand that the heart of Father God is kind and generous and compassionate toward them and they are His precious sons and daughters.
From the first day we knew that this camp was going to be special. Thursday was spent introducing them to the Father and helping them understand how He is a father to all those who choose to accept Him. Friday was spent revealing what our role is as a son or daughter of God and what the rewards are. On Saturday we spent time sharing with them how to build their relationship with the Father.
Saturday things began to really change in the hearts of the young people. That morning I shared my testimony and my rocky relationship with my earthly father. I then shared how God, my heavenly Father, healed me and my earthly father and restored our relationship. I also shared that they had to let go of all the pain, hurt, suffering, regrets, resentment and whatever else they were feeling in order to have a meaningful relationship with the Father.
During quite times and throughout the day many of these kids talked to the leaders about their relationship with their earthly fathers. These kids began to open their hearts and reveal the stuff that had been holding them back from the Father. One young man shared with me how abusive his father was and how he left home and went to live with his grandmother. His father asked him to come home but he refused because he did not want to get beaten and hurt anymore. Many years later he heard that his father had changed and began going to church but he still refused to go home. Time passed and he received news that his father had died. Now he not only had the hurt from what his father did to him but he realized that he felt terrible because he never got to ask his dad to forgive him for leaving home and for never letting his Dad back into his life.
As he shared his story with me I was just praying that God would use me to help this young man surrender the pain and the guilt to God. I spoke with him for about 40 minutes and told him I was available if he wanted to talk some more.
That night the speaker, Eric Garnie, told us he felt prompted by the Holy Spirit to offer these young men and women the opportunity to receive a fathers blessing over their lives. Eric asked if I would be willing to stand in as a father and offer a father’s blessing on anyone who wanted to receive it. I was standing up front with Eric as he explained what we were going to do. When He finished explaining he asked the kids to sit for a few minutes and when they were ready they could come forward to receive a father’s blessing.
What happened next profoundly changed my life. Of the 37 students attending the camp roughly 30 came forward. For over an hour Eric and I had the incredible privilege to give a father’s blessing to these kids. They were so hungry to hear words of affirmation and to be loved. We blessed them, prayed and cried with these kids. The presence of the Lord was so real; you couldn’t miss it. The Father poured out His love through us into each student that came forward. While the kids stood in line waiting their turn they held, cried and comforted each other.
I was so overwhelmed at the hunger these kids showed to be loved. I am still moved to tears as I write this over how God the Father touched the hearts of the students.
On Sunday we made time for the students to share what they experienced at camp and every single one of them that shared talked about how the blessing they received the night before had changed them. We saw hearts changed, healed, restored and on fire for the Lord.
I wish we could share every story but there is no way to put into words what happened. I can share that the student that I talked to Saturday morning stood up on Sunday morning and said that he forgave his father for all that he had done to him. He also said that he now knows that he will be a good husband and a father because he has his Heavenly Father to help him. He thanked me for giving him a father’s blessing.
I will never be the same again. I know God has us here for a reason and this camp was one of those reasons. Thank you to all who prayed for the camp and who sponsored kids to come to the camp.
To end with the greatest news of all - we had 12 students make a decision for Christ and many others rededicated their life to Christ. We were able to give away eight study Bibles, which were received with big smiles. A few of them have little new testaments, but now at least eight of them have the entire Bible. Halleluiah! We are flying high today!

2009-08-25T14:58:00.003+01:00

God's beautiful creatures that we were able to see up close and in their natural habitat. So awesome!

Our Namibian Family

2009-08-24T21:51:00.004+01:00

Everywhere we go we meet brothers and sisters in Christ - those who are members of God's beautiful family. Namibia has given us more than ministry opportunity, we are amazed to discover that God has placed certain people in our path to work with, disciple and also to relax and have fun with. This week we took a day off to "play" with our Namibian boys - Clinton and Simon - and Annelies our Dutch adopted daughter. We went into town and did some shopping and then on the way home stopped at a local game park and took a tour. The boys had never seen anything like that before - Rhinos up close and personal! We tried to capture their expressions on camera - but it really doesn't do it justice. We had a blast! Oh by the way, this picture with Clinton and the Hyhena... it's not real. It was just part of the atmosphere in the restaurant. But we saw many real, live animals on the game drive. I'll post some of those pictures as well.

Youth outreach in Arandis

2009-08-17T12:26:00.002+01:00

It’s a very quaint town just east of the popular resort town of Swakopmund, which sits on the beautiful coast of Namibia. When we arrived we were greeted by Pastor Titus and several young men who helped us unpack our car. My colleague, Annelies and myself brought Choose to Wait books, handouts for the sessions, our laptops, a projector and various other items used in this kind of ourtreach.

My personal favorite attendee was a 71 year old “Ooma” (grandmother) who attended with her great-granddaughter. She was nodding, and participating the entire time and even added scripture and biblical principles to compliment what we were saying. SHE encouraged ME! Her last comment to me was, “We need to bring this message to every young person and every home, even mothers and grandmothers need to hear this.” Of course, I gave her my blessing to share what she learned with other women and girls, and I do believe that she will. As we said our goodbyes, we were asked when we could return. This is such a common response to these outreaches. I cannot give a certain answer, of course. My only response must be, “We will see. Perhaps the Lord will make a way for us to come again.”

Are they listening?

2009-07-31T16:30:00.003+01:00

Let's see. I've been teaching now for how long? Over 25 years. Yeah, that's about right. Sometimes we teachers wonder, "Are they listening to anything I'm saying?" We give a test and discover that those we thought were not listening give all the correct answers. Funny. When you're teaching biblical principles of love, marriage and relationships there's a strong motivation to get your point across. God has given us principles to live by in His word. So, we use dramas, illustrations, stories, testimonials, and all kinds of creative means to bring the truth home. All the while praying and hoping that it's getting through to the heart of the student. Only time will tell if they really hear and if they decide it's important enough to apply to their life. Here are a few boys from one of our classes. Typical teenagers by all appearance, really, but brought up where human value is NOT equal. Women are not treated with equality and neither are those from a lower class. Even within the church walls, there is still far too much predjudice. But God. Yes, thank God, for we know that God is not asleep or on vacation - He is very much at work here on planet earth. We are beginning to see and hear changes in the people of God. We pray for more eye-opening and ear-opening to the truth. We are all equal in God's eyes - male and female, light-skin, dark-skin, blue-skin, green-skin. He loves all His children and doesn't want any of them to perish.

In The Blink of an Eye

2009-07-28T21:58:00.002+01:00

On July 16th I was on my way back from a town in Southern Namibia called Keetmanshoop. I had delivered some building materials for a construction team that was scheduled to arrive on the 17th. The town of Keetmanshoop is 580 kilometers (360 miles) from the town of Okahandja where we are living.
The vehicle I was driving is a Hyundai Bakkie. It is old and ready to be decommissioned but it is the only work truck we have that could haul all the material that was needed for the team that was coming.
On the way back the bakkie started to overheat. I had to stop every 80-90 kilometers to allow it to cool off. I waited about 30 minutes before I could add water to the radiator and then get back on the road.
I was about 300 kilometers out of Keetmanshoop and the bakkie began overheating again so I saw an area up ahead where I could pull off and wait for the engine to cool. I put on my turn signal and began to break and pull off the road. I do not know what happened but the brake pedal went all the way to the floor and the truck did not stop. I began pumping the breaks and then I was going into a slide. I was driving at 80 kilometers and hour (50 miles per hour) and I was sliding sideways down the two lane highway. As I was fighting to keep the bakkie from flipping and trying to straighten out the vehicle a car was coming up behind me. Because I had signaled to turn off the road the car had begun to accelerate to pass me. Well he and I got quite a surprise.
I was sliding sideways and he was coming right at me going over 120 kilometers and hour (75 miles per hour). I was about to block both lanes of traffic but somehow the other car passed by me with just inches to spare. I finally came to a stop and caught my breath and then slowly drove the bakkie off the road.
I realized that in a matter of a few seconds I almost died. Had the other car not reacted so quickly I would have been hit on the driver’s side of the vehicle. What I also realize is that God was with me the whole time. At no time was I afraid. It was not until the next day that I realized how close to death I had actually come.
I had my cell phone and I was able to call for help. I waited 3 ½ hours but during that time I prayed and thanked God for being with me. As the sun set and the night took over I saw the stars so clearly and again felt His presence with me.
I am reminded that time is not in my hands and I do not know when my time will be up. I have to live each day as though it is my last and make every effort to live for Him each day. I know that I was spared because He is not done with me and because so many of you are praying for us. Thank you for praying and please do not stop.

Family devos

2009-07-16T09:23:00.002+01:00

Is it just us or does everyone battle with guarding family devotion time? Since Simon and Clinton live with us on weekends we started a Bible study together. Both of these boys are leadership material and we are discipling them so they will be equipped to disciple others. We realize there's nothing new here - it's what Jesus exampled to us. We have a book that we are working through and we're currently on lesson #4. Sometimes we get busy playing games and forget about devos. Sometimes we're watching a movie and forget. But, we are committed to making this a priority!

Well, on Sunday morning at church we met a young man (Brad)who is a new Christian and hasn't been discipled yet. We invited him to join us for our family devo time that afternoon. Surprise! He came. We were working on the end of lesson #3 when he arrived and just continued. But... after we were done, Tony and I went on to other things and our boys (Simon and Clinton) took Brad aside and worked through the first 3 lessons with him! Isn't it great when you can see fruit of your labor? Of course - YES!

Brad is invited to join us every week. Clinton and Simon are growing in their personal journey of faith and also in their leadership skills. We are motivated more than ever to continue this work of discipleship. God is so good!

Fundraiser Success

2009-06-28T18:42:00.003+01:00

The day started with the sun shining bright and a crisp chill in the air. We set up tables and the Braai outside of the International Office where there is lots of foot traffic. The students helped us braai the sausage, bake and sell the cakes, and bargain on prices for the used clothes. They carried large handmade signs advertising "Braai and Bake Sale - Youth Camp Fundraiser" on the street corners. By the end of the busy morning we were celebrating that the cakes were sold out and the sausage was gone! This is the first fundraiser to help support our students for youth camp the end of August. Please pray with us that other fundraisers will be as successful and then the students will also take up the responsibility to raise personal support so that this camp will become a reality.

Personal sporsorship from the partners is appreciated too. Just donate through our Christ's Hope USA office, and specify for August Youth Camp, Namibia Choose to Wait. www.christshopeusa.org

Seven said YES

2009-06-16T10:25:00.003+01:00

For me the most thrilling moments are those that have eternal impact. That is the case when someone says "yes" to Jesus. Last Saturday, Auino (a staff member of YWAM - Youth With a Mission) shared his story with our students and challenged them to live a life sold out - totally committed to God. One by one, seven students raised their hands to accept this challenge and make that commitment. It was powerful! After the session, I gave each of them a Bible, instructed them to read the book of John and handed them a small booklet that helps them understand what it means to have a personal relationship with God. I pray that they will attend our club meetings and become strong in their faith journey. Please continue to pray with us and for us.

Humbled Yet Again

2009-06-01T09:30:00.004+01:00

In the pictures above you see two tin homes. These are typical homes for a lot of the people who live here in Okahanja, Namibia. I do not show these to you to get you to feel sorry for the people but to give you a visual picture to go with the story I am going to share with you.

The two homes you see are about 13' x 13' and are made out of about 20 sheets of tin, 8 wood poles, and three 2" x 4"'s. They are very small and can house anywhere from one to ten people. There is often no electricity and no running water and only a dirt floor. It costs about $560.00 USA dollars to build one home which equates to about $4,500.00 Namibian dollars.

You have helped to build three new homes for three young men that have been working with me on building projects for Christ's Hope. These young men dreamed of having their own homes but could not imagine that those dreams were reachable. You see an average salary here is about $950 to $1,200 Namibian dollars a month and that salary is needed to buying groceries, pay for rent, school fees, taxis, and clothes.

God is using you to help these young men provide for themselves and their families. To see the smiles on their faces as they enter their new home is an experience that is impossible to put into words. I can tell you that it is working with these people that makes all the hard times and hard work worth it.

Thank you for your continued support. Your faithfulness is changing lives one day at a time. We pray that God will continue to use us all to make a difference in His children's lives.

They keep me feelin young

2009-05-29T09:14:00.004+01:00

Teaching and Training and Testimonials

2009-05-29T09:02:00.002+01:00

The entire month of May is a holiday here, so we tried to maximize our time by scheduling a youth camp and two Choose to Wait trainings. All three were very successful.

We had about 25 students in youth camp for three days. Considering many students were with family – out of town – we feel that was a good turn out. The important thing is that those 25 made comments to the effectiveness of the ministry during camp, and for that we are grateful. We spent time singing, dancing, doing artwork, playing games, listening to a special speaker (one was Tony Duran), and praying for the personal needs of the students. It was very eye-opening and impactful for all of us. We gave away 5 Bibles, and two young girls gave their hearts to Christ on the last night.

One young man shared a little of his story with me during the small group prayer time. His parents are Angolan. They came to Namibia during war time, and he was born in Namibia. They returned to Angola soon after, but left him here with friends of the family. Now, at the age of 17, the only contact this young man has had with his parents was fairly recent when he spoke to his father by phone. As of now, he still hasn’t seen his mother or heard her voice. He’s trying to remain strong and courageous, but you can see in his eyes that not knowing his parents and being raised here away from family has been difficult for him to process.

We will continue the outreach to youth during the school year with Choose to Wait Clubs on Wednesday and Friday afternoons, as well as hold special youth events on Saturdays, once a month. One of our goals is to groom several of the older youth to become leaders, which means more discipleship and more growth and expansion of ministry. So far there are 5 young people who are committed to being trained for peer leadership. Isn’t that a great start? Please keep them in your prayers.

The Choose to Wait trainings went very well. All together we hosted 24 attendees, some of which were familiar with the Choose to Wait curriculum and all of which were excited about the possibilities of using this program in their schools, churches and small groups. We had attendees from various parts of Namibia, but also from the Netherlands, Germany, Canada, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe. At first I was a little disappointed that we didn’t have more Namibians to train, but then I realized that this meant the message of the gospel and sexual purity would be taken into all these “home” countries eventually – and that made me smile. This is God’s work, not mine, and He will accomplish His purposes as we submit to Him and report for duty. See? We are never too old to keep learning. Every day I’m reminded that He is God, and I am not. He doesn’t need me – but I certainly NEED Him. Here is one comment from the “Workshop” training that brought tears to my eyes. The words are good, but I wish I could adequately convey the emotion with which she delivered them. It was so moving, really.

“Thank you very much Catherine. It was fascinating. I came as a poor mother into this workshop, but really walk out as a rich empowered mother and Christian. I hope and wish we can have more teachers for all the 13 regions in Namibia.”

She is a mother of one of our Choose to Wait club members. After each club meeting Connie goes home and shares what she learned with her mother and her mother became so intrigued with what she was hearing, she asked to meet me. I invited her to a workshop and the rest is history. Now you know what makes my job so rewarding and motivating!

I’m so thankful for your prayers of support and for the many attendees who are now using this message to reach others. We’ll keep you posted.

How Do You Say NO

2009-04-17T06:48:00.004+01:00

We are learning a lot by being here in Africa about what it is like to be a Missionary on the front lines. Though we may not be living in the poorest country in the porrest conditions; we are living in a place where buying peanut butter or a coke in a luxury. Going to the movies here costs us three US dollars but to the average person here that is a lot of money and a luxury they cannot afford.

We have had the priveledge to take some of these wonderful people to see a movie, buy them some extra groceries, buy them some medicine, help them build a house (out of tin), buy school clothes for their children, buy them work boots so they do not have to work barefoot, share the message of Christ, and buy them a Bible. These are just some of the things we are able to do. These are some of the things we have been able to say yes to.

We have more requests for help than we can do. It is in these times we have to tell these wonderful children of God that we can not help them. We tell them we can pary with them and for them but we can not help them financially. We would really like to say yes to them though. It is not easy to say no to the person who is looking for work so that they can feed themselves or their families, it is not easy to say no to the person who wants to go to the University to get an education so they can better themselves and help their community, it is not easy to say no to the person who just wants to build their own tin house, and it is not easy to say no to the kids who are asking for soccer equipment (shoe, balls, goals, etc..).

We want to be able to help everyone of these people. We are getting to know them and their stories and it gets harder to say no when you know the person who is asking. These people are very proud and do not like to ask for help. I can relate just a litte with these people because asking friends, family, and strangers to support us is very humbling. As the asker you find yourself wondering what the person thinks of you for asking? Will they think less of you? Will they say no?

How do you say no? For me being trained in the Marines I was told never get close to those who are going to help or protect because you may have to leave them behind. By not getting close/attached we could easily walk away and not feel any guilt. In Saudia Arabia I went in trying not to get close but over time the people became people and I got to know their stories and I began to care. I found that I could not just walk away from these people.

As I serve in the Lord's Army I am learning that I am to care for those I am sent to help and protect. Sometimes I am rewarded with a hug, a smile, a new friendship, or just the satisfaction of being there for that person. Sometimes though I have to fight back the tears as I see, hear and feel the pain that these people have to live with everyday. How do I say no to them when I know them, care for them and love them?

It is not easy being on the frontlines but I do not know that I would want to be anywhere else. I see God working and I am privledged to be allowed to participate. The rewards far our weigh the pain, trouble, sweat, blood and tears.

Please pray that we will only do what God has called us to do while we are here. Pray that we can show the love of God to these people even when we have to say no. Pray with us that God will show us where we are to work. And pray for us that we will continue to find our strength in Him.

It's ALL about relationships!

2009-04-05T15:18:00.002+01:00

It’s all about relationships. That’s what we’ve been saying and that’s been the buzz for a while now in the body of Christ. When you come to a foreign country and have to learn the ways and culture of people that you’ve never met before, that phrase has a whole new meaning.

We are busy with work, yes. Tony has more than a full plate with responsibility over the vehicles, buildings and some of the administration at the International Office. I’m teaching, training and recruiting for Choose to Wait, networking with local churches, schools and NGO’s. We are a part of a local church fellowship and have regular prayer times and chapel with Christ’s Hope staff. Relationships? Yeah, I’ll say, plenty of them. The challenge is making those interaction times meaningful and Christ- honoring.

Here are some pictures us with fellow-workers (from Holland), and some of the students we are building meaningful Christ-honoring relationships with. It’s wonderful meeting and working with our European brothers and sisters, but it’s not so much fun saying goodbye.

We hosted 52 students last night for Saturday Night Live and they had a blast – singing, dancing, and playing. Can I just say that this “relationship building” is not a quick and easy task. Meaningful relationships require self-sacrifice, time and effort – purposeful sharing. We sure appreciate your prayers and support as we continue to press on toward that goal. We know it is all worth it because every young person we meet here has a story and each one is precious to the Father. We know that God has sent us here to introduce them to Jesus. He told us, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel…” So here we are modeling love, patience, kindness, forgiveness, peace….. and sometimes we use words.

God at Work

2009-03-09T14:58:00.002+02:00

About two weeks ago I posted a blog about being troubled how to deal with some workers who had stolen some stuff. The incident happened on a Monday and I told the three involved that I wanted them to go home and pray and think about what they did. I also told them they needed to come to work the next morning and tell me why I should not fire them for what they did.

That Monday night I was so troubled in my spirit that I could not sleep. I called a friend in the states to ask for prayer and to just listen. That was a huge help and I knew that I would be covered with prayer. I also spoke to a couple of people here to get some counsel on how to proceed.

After much thought and prayer I felt that I should not fire the three workers but I needed them to understand that stealing is wrong. It was decided that they would not be able to work the rest of the week and that they would not be paid for the four days they were not working.

When I showed up at the job site on Tuesday morning the workers were waiting for me. I took them aside and listened to what they had to say and why they should not be fired. They genuinely were sorry for what they did. I then told them what the consequences of their actions would be. They accepted the discpline and agreed that it was more than fair.

What happened next was a total God moment. The foreman of the jobsite said that God woke him up in the middle of the night with a word for all the workers on the job site. We then read the word to all the workers and the foreman shared with them about God. I was just sitting there taking it all in and was praising God for how He was working in these men and how He used the foreman to speak into the lives of the workers.

God has also opened the door for me to start a bible study with the three workers. We have met the last two Saturdays and I have to say that I am learning as much as these men are learning. I do not know where this road will lead or where it will end but I am confident that God is in control.

I am constantly learning that when we are open to what God wants to do through us that there is nothing that we cannot do. I have been humbled more than I thought possible since we have been here and I am sure that I will be humbled much more before we are called home.

Thank you to all who are praying for us. Your prayers are making a difference in our lives and in the lives of those we have been called to serve.

God answers teacher and students' prayer

2009-03-01T18:49:00.003+02:00

The first picture was taken outside where the Choose to Wait teachers are next to the chairs/desks after we unloaded them. The picture showing inside the classroom gives you an idea of what the 35+ students were using before the container sent these used chair/desks. Can you see the broken plastic chairs and pieces of desks that they put together to make-shift a learning setting? The only place to write was on the seat of the chair, while kneeling on the floor. It was so sad, I nearly cried the first time I visited the classroom.

The very first thing the teacher did after the desks were brought into the room, was ask all of the students to stand, fold their hands and give thanks to God for answered prayer. Of course he thanked me over and over, as did the principal (shown in the picture with me). This will be a huge improvement from the classroom setting they were making do with. Now this teacher and our Choose to Wait teachers can teach more effectively. Yes, God does answer prayer!

The Creation of Man

2009-02-26T20:55:00.004+02:00

This week's Choose to Wait Girls club was an absolute blast! We talked about the creation of man. We talked about how God created the stars, the plants and animals and all the rest of creation. Then we read the verses in Genesis Chapter one and learned about the details of creation - beginning on the first day, through day six. Something very different occurred on day six. God said, "Let us make man in our own image." Wow! It's a very fascinating lesson. We gave each girl some play dough and had a play dough man contest. They each "created" a man and you can see from the pictures that we had fun with that.

Remember these are teenage girls who never had a cradle full of dolls to play with, or a closet packed with toys when they were 3 and 4 years old. They made their own playtime with rocks and sticks, and the boys wrap plastic grocery bags together to form a soccer ball. Play dough is fun for them!

Highs and Lows

2009-02-23T20:17:00.006+02:00

The pictures above are of one of the construction projects we have begun. We are digging a trench in preparation of building a security wall. The work is not easy because there are a lot of rocks but the work is a little easier because we have been getting a lot of rain which is softening the gound.

I cannot believe that February is almost over. At times it feels like we just got here and at other times it feels as if we have been here several years.

I am sitting here typing this blog and I have a heavy heart. My day had started out really good and was going just fine and then. Let me backup a little and give you some history. Everyday our office starts out our day with prayer. We pray for each other, for special needs and for the ministry. Today we were praying for all the children and the workers in the children's homes we have.

After prayer I went into the office to make some phone calls and to catch up on my emails. The morning was wonderful. I got caught up on all my emails and made all the phone calls that needed to be made so I was feeling really good. I then went to lunch and was looking forward to the afternoon because I was going to get to do some construction. No phones, no computers and no meetings.

Well half way through the construction project (building shelves) I was interupted and was told about an employee issue. I have eight guys working for me on two other construction projects. Well three of the guys that are working for me stole some stuff from us. They got caught and I now have to work out what I am going to do.

My heart is heavy because these are good guys and they work hard. I can not imagine what was going through their minds. I sent them home and told them to think and pray about what they did and that I would talk to them tomorrow. What will I do keeps running through my head and then I think ...what does God want me to do. This is the part of ministry that is not fun.

Life here is not easy but it does not make it right for people to steal from each other. I am learning more and more that it will be the love of Jesus that makes a change here. In fact it is His love that makes a difference everywhere in the world. The results of not loving as Jesus has loved us are everywhere and affect everyone.

I cannot make a person change but I am praying that my example and my testimony will make a difference in these men's lives. I know that God is at work, I just need to make sure I am working where He wants me to work.

On a different note we are rejoicing and thanking God because our work permits have finally come through. We knew that it was all in God's hands and we were trusting and praying that we would get approved. We now have two year work permits thanks to the Namibian government. This has removed the fear that we would have to return home. Now we can focus on the work He has for us.

Please pray with us for the men and what the Lord would have me do and give God praise for our work permits.

2009-02-11T10:29:00.001+02:00

More pictures....

Attention Animal Lovers!

2009-02-11T10:22:00.001+02:00

This is for YOU! We just returned from a trip to Cape Town, South Africa and we had a grrrr--reat time with good friends, Rodney & Beth Stramel. Much to our delight we had several animal encounters as we toured along. Here are some pictures for your viewing pleasure. Isn’t our God an amazing creator? Look carefully at the penguins pictures and you’ll see baby penguins being protected under the belly of several. So fascinating! The “wild” hair picture is just for laughs. It was extremely windy! I lost my cap several times…. Seriously.

Choose to Wait Training

2009-02-02T20:47:00.002+02:00

Friday night and Saturday our home hosted a level one Choose to Wait training. I set up my computer and projector in the front room, added some borrowed tables and chairs and did my thing. Susanna helped me set up, prepare lunch on Saturday, and tea and coffee both days. We had 12 in attendance. Several were our own Christ’s Hope volunteers serving at one of our orphan homes, and several others were local educators from primary and secondary schools. All expressed an interest to use the materials and pass on the message of CtW. Even though it was a very long weekend, it was extremely rewarding. I plan to conduct other level ones in other areas, and a one-week level two training in May. And the teacher building process has begun!

Girls Only!

2009-02-02T20:39:00.002+02:00

We had a successful start to the Girls discipleship group Wednesday. There were 15 girls and two leaders. Myself and a gifted young woman from Holland, Annelies. She’s a nurse and is pictured with a few girls. (Hint: she’s the only blond in the group).

The girls seemed to hang on every word that was spoken by Annelies. We are beginning our group with some good ole sex education, since it’s just not done at home or in schools here. We made our own curriculum, including some diagrams of male and female anatomy. Our theme is “Love.” We gave “love notes” to everyone who arrived on time. The idea is to promote caring for one another and good behavior yields rewards. There will be a “love shop” at the end of each month where they can redeem their “love notes.”

Of course we served chips and cool drink which was swallowed up in a flash. We really didn’t expect to have so many girls interested in coming because we are making it clear that it is a serious group and they will be stretched in many ways. So we were pleasantly surprised when 11 girls signed an agreement that they will abide by the guidelines of the club. Keep a prayin!

January 2009

2009-01-06T12:20:00.002+02:00

Think of a romantic get-away for an anniversary celebration. What comes to your mind? Sitting at the beach watching the sunset? An elegant dinner in a classy restaurant? Waking up in a beautiful hotel room with a gorgeous view? Well, that’s what we had. All of the above and more. So sweet and relaxing and even though it wasn’t Hawaii (where we had our honeymoon) it was so great!

Back to work now. We both have more on our plates than we can accomplish really, but we are tough and committed and plan to take each task and challenge one by one and move ahead in ministry as God fills us with more of Him and His joy and peace and love. Happy New Year to YOU – everyone!

Stay tuned…. There’s more to come!

Holiday R & R

2008-12-28T16:33:00.002+02:00

We had a few days off and decided to explore the countryside around Okahandja. Several people told us that there are hiking trails and a local camp area where people fish and water ski. Finally we had a chance to scout around the day after Christmas. So we packed up Bella, some snacks, water, and camera and headed out of the city limits. The pictures tell the rest of the story. The Dam is a beautiful, peaceful location overlooking the city. We took a nap under a tree, watched amused as Bella explored new smells (like crabfish), read a little, snacked a little and came home refreshed. When you come to visit - we'll take you there.

Youth Camp

2008-12-17T21:35:00.002+02:00

You all have seen the pictures that Catherine posted about the youth camp. In the second picture there are four boys. These are the four boys that were in my small group. I have to say that this camp strengthened my relationship with God.

These four guys were hungry and had many questions about God and the Bible. I was challenged to find answers to their questions and spent a lot of time in my Bible finding the answers they needed. Each one asked good questions and were happy to have someone who took the time to give them honest answers.

The camp leader taught on Romans chapters seven and eight. During each session the kids were taking notes and paying close attention. During our small group discussions we asked and answered questions about what was taught during each session. I was impressed with the questions and the discussions we had.

God worked in many of the kids lives that attended the camp. In reading their comment cards at the end of the camp we saw how many of them had a deeper understanding of the Bible and of God. Several said the camp helped get their lives back on track with God.

I have taken one of the boys, Simon, under my wing and have begun working with him. He works in our yard each week and I am teaching him how to use power tools. We are building some bookcases for our house and he is excited because he is learning how to work with wood. He is a quick learner and I am excited to be able to work with him. Simon has asked me to teach him how to drive. I have flashbacks to teaching a couple of our kids how to drive and am a little apprehensive. We will see if I will actually teach him to drive.

I am thankful that God allowed me to speak into the lives of the four boys at the camp. I pray that what they were taught and what we talked about will help them grow closer to God. Pray that I will have more opportunities to work with these boys in the future.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-17T20:18:00.002+02:00

How do we even begin to describe how happy we are. The truck you see pictured above is a Christmas present from some wonderful friends. We received an email from our friends in response to an email Catherine had sent out about us needing our own vehicle and asking for prayer.

The email said that they had been blessed and that they wanted to buy us a vehicle for Christmas. It was a good thing we were sitting down when we read that email. In fact we read it a couple more times to make sure we were actually reading what we thought we read.

It took a while to find a good vehicle and we were finally able to pick up our truck on December 12th. It is a 2003 Isuzu double cab. I know there are some of you in shock that I did not get a Toyota but in Namibia Toyota's are very expensive and the Isuzu is very good.

We are in awe at how God has provided for us over this past year. He has taken very good care of us and we are humbled to be able to serve Him here in Africa. Looking back we see how God has used us to reach so many people and as much as we give out we are never able to out give God.

We are also thankful for all of our family and friends who are helping us by praying for us. The prayers are the most valuable gift you can give us. We also are thankful for the emails and Skype conversations we have with some of you. Hearing from you is the second greatest gift you give us. Being so far from home it is nice to hear from you all so please keep in touch. Lastly we are extremely thankful for the financial support that we have received. The money we have been entrusted with has reached and touched so many lives. We have tried to share some of the stories here on our blog.

Take the open door

2008-12-13T15:10:00.002+02:00

The first morning at camp, we woke up to neighbors. A small white car and 2-man tent was just a few feet away from ours. While in the restroom, I met the young woman and later was introduced to her boyfriend. Sarah and Gram are from South Carolina, but are taking a few months off to tour around Africa. They had just come from Etosha (Game park). He’s a South African so he’s guiding the tour and commented that they are enjoying Namibia.

It didn’t take long for them to ask me why we were there. Come on, you see a white lady and all these black kids camping out – you can imagine their curiosity. So naturally I took the open door and shared about our mission here, including a brief message of the “Choose to Wait” program. I boldly stated that God has a design for His children to have healthy bodies and healthy marriages, but our selfish nature has taken over and wreaked havoc causing disease and death, pain and suffering. “God’s design is that sex is for marriage and marriage is for love, but these kids don’t know what love is. They mistake sex for love and that has caused a great deal of damage.” I spoke without compromise. (Even though I knew that they are camping out together and obviously sleeping together.)

Much to my surprise, they continued to ask me questions and stretched out the conversation for nearly an hour. Just as it was getting dark, Tony walked up and I introduced them to him. We chatted a few more minutes and then, Gram stated, “Well, we were going to just dump the tent and camping stuff tomorrow on our way to the Airport, but maybe you could use it.” Of course we agreed. It was settled that they would leave the tent set up for us since they were leaving very early the next morning. Tony handed Sarah one of our cards and we said our goodbyes, inviting them to come to Okahandja and visit sometime.

The next morning, Tony pulled a few things out of the little tent including a soft cooler, a lantern, a sleeping bag, two beach towels and a kitchen knife. The rest of our camp staff looked puzzled as Tony loaded the items into our tent. “Did you steal that stuff from those people? What are you doing?” After we had a good laugh, we had a chance to remind them that you never know who you will meet and what God has in store – if you just obey and walk through the open door.

We pray for Sarah and Gram that they will seek to know the God of creation and make Him their Lord and Savior. It’s apparent to us that God was reaching out to them through us. I love this job!

Tony will write more about the camp..... soon..... but here are a few pics to get you started.

Youth Camp

2008-12-05T15:33:00.004+02:00

We're putting on a small youth camp by invitation only since we are limited on space for transport and accomodations, but we're excited about it. You should always appreciate that small may be better in some ministry cases. We'll write more about how the camp went, but first I wanted to post a couple of pictures of our fundraiser for the camp. We sold used clothes and food that we prepared just outside of our Center. The guys fired up the BBQ and grilled lamb, sausage and beef and they sold like hot cakes. We made enough money to sponsor all the campers to go to a local acquarium during the camp. That will be a fun outing! The pic with me and Julia (her and her husband are local pastors and hosting the camp). The pic with me and blonde Rachel (her and her husband are from Belgium and here for training until they head to the DRC to head up the Christ's Hope ministry there.)

Let's be FAIR

2008-12-05T15:15:00.002+02:00

My mother always says, "what you do for one, you must do for all." Anyone that has more than one child knows that you must remember this principle. We had the boys over to swim and of course we had to make time for the girls to come also. Only two earned the privilege of coming to swim. You can see that they enjoyed themselves and I had fun taking pictures.

Twists and Turns

2008-11-27T10:47:00.002+02:00

They are splashing in the pool. It’s blazing hot here right now! Left to right – Bonnie, Jan, and Bernard. All three boys are from the Okahandja Children’s home run by Christ’s Hope. We call it the ARK of Okahandja. The ARK in Noah’s day rescued Mister & Misses Bear, Mister & Misses Elephant, and all the other Mister & Misses animals. The ARK here rescues children at risk. We have 13 children that have come to us for various reasons. Some are not well cared for because they have a single parent who is struggling to care for them, or they are from an extended family who is unable to care for them on a full-time basis, or they are orphans. Some have struggles in school, they have learning disorders, or emotional problems, so caring for them becomes somewhat of a challenge.

Right now the ARK is run by a single young German woman (Julia) who has social services experience and expertise. She is assisted by 3 women who help with housekeeping, and a few volunteers (mostly from Holland at the moment.) The volunteers usually stay one year, but some only 3 months or 6 months. As you can imagine this makes keeping a regular routine rather tough with people coming and going all the time. The ARK has recently changed management, exchanging a set of house parents for Julia and because of that and the fact that there is no “Father” image in the homes - the boys especially are reacting to the change with some behaviors that warrant special attention.

Guess who the Namibia Country Director called upon to help? You guessed it: Tony the hammer. (Oh, that was his nickname in Kenya last summer, sorry, some of you don’t know that one) Hammer – get it? The builder. Me? Well I support where I can. We’ve stepped into the role of “Principal” just about 2 weeks ago, and it’s not anything we planned for or were really prepared for really. But, God is helping us as we get to know and love these kids.

Today the three oldest boys came over to help me with a sanding project. I’m re-painting two wooden chairs and my arms were screaming at me to stop torturing them with the repetitious and tedious work. So, I used my project as an excuse to borrow the boys. Julia gladly agreed to part with them, and in about one hour the four of us had the sanding done. I thanked them with glasses of orange Fanta and a swim in the pool, which they loved ! You can see from the pictures that it was a very fun and playful afternoon. It’s probably chilly winter weather where you live right now, but here – it’s around 95 degrees and a dip in the pool is a perfect way to spend a Saturday afternoon.

Thanks for praying for these boys and others like them who need to know how much God loves them and how they can serve Him and live a life that puts a smile on the Father’s face. They need instruction on how to grow up to be a Godly father, since they’ve never had that role model in their own lives. Keep Tony in prayer too, he grew up without that Godly role model himself so he’s having to depend on his heavenly Father daily for instruction on how to do this. Uncle Tony is becoming more familiar to them and already I can see them relax and feel more secure around us. It seems quite clear that God has extra bonuses planned for our time here. Three of them played in our pool today.

Have a wonderful day filled with thanks-giving! We miss YOU!

What a Week

2008-11-24T17:44:00.003+02:00

Last week was one of those weeks that after it is done and over you thank God because there is no way you could have made it on your own. Where do I start with how it was?

Okay let's start from the beginning and see how it goes. Monday was a good day and I felt that the rest of the week would be okay. Tuesday was not so bad; I had so many emails to respond to I felt like I was going to drown. I managed to get through them all and by the end of the day I felt good because I could see that I accomplished quite a bit.

Wednesday was when everything changed. Eric, coworker, asked me if I would be able to give the message at Manna church on Sunday because he could not find anyone else. I had already told him that if he could not find anyone else that I would gladly fill in for Sunday. I had really thought he would be able to find someone else. I completed my tasks for the morning and was heading home for lunch. I stopped by the store to buy a few things we needed at home. When I went out to the bakkie (truck) the key broke. It is the only key. God was watching over me though because when I looked up I saw Julius, coworker from Oshikuku, parked on the street. Julius ended up running me around for about three hours trying to get a new key. We eventually had success.

It had taken all afternoon to get a key so I could not do any more work that day. I went home exhausted and frazzled. I knew the enemy was trying to get to me. He almost did but God was always with me and I stayed calm and mangaged to begin working on my message for Sunday.

Thursday was crazy because I had to catch-up from Wednesday and I also had to fix some plumbing problems at the childrens ARK. We have had a lot of rain so there are leaks in the roof. Well we had to chip out the concrete wall to get to the pipes. The walls are solid concrete here so it takes much longer to find the leak let alone fix it. We managed to get to the pipes by the end of the day.

Friday we had to go back and continue working on the plumbing issue. We cut out all the old pipes and installed new pipes. We tested the water and there were no leaks but there was still water leaking somewhere because water was still leaking through to the first floor, which they call the ground floor. So we began chipping up the floor to get to the drain. Yes the floor is solid concrete also. We were able to get to the drain by the afternoon and fix the leaks there. We felt confindent that we got all the leaks.

Okay I have not worked on my message since Wednesday but I am so tired that we decide to just take the night off and watch a movie. Later that night Catherine was checking her emails and read an email from some friends who said that God had blessed them and that they wanted to help us buy a car. PRAISE THE LORD!!! What an answer to prayer!!! It was a good thing were both sitting down when she read it.

Saturday I went into Windhoek to look at vehicles. I took the bakkie and was excited to be looking for a vehicle for us. I met Berdian, coworker, and he took me around to at least 12 different used car dealerships. We finally found a good bakkie (truck). We went back to his house so I could drop him off and so I could head home. The new key I had made broke in the ignition.

This was about 11:00 am. It took until about 6:00pm to finally get the piece out of the ignition and to get a new key made. I finally got home about 8:00 pm.

Okay I am tired, exhausted, but I still have to finish my message for Sunday. As I reflected on the week I realized that the enemy had tried to take me out but God had been with me the whole week and had given me a piece that helped me endure everything that the enemy threw at me.

I was up till midnight but I got my message done and I did okay on Sunday. I had a few people come up to me afterwards and tell me how right on the message was for them. I told them I was only sharing what God placed on my heart. Needless to say I have preached twice now and led devotions several times. I even led a chapel service. God is streching me beyond anything I had ever imagined.

Okay I better wrap this up. But one final story. Today, Monday the 24th, I went to get some tools out of our garage to finish working on the plumbing problem. When I moved a box I saw something move on the floor. It was a scorpion!!! Okay that is the first time I ever saw one in the wild and he was mad. I killed him and attached is the picture. Oh the fun we have here. Talk to you all soon.

Someone is watching

2008-11-10T10:51:00.003+02:00

2 Timothy 2:1 “You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable men who will also be qualified to teach others.”

Do you remember hearing the words of Jesus, “…go and make disciples?” That command was given to all of us, not just pastors and missionaries. The test of a true believer. Those who know HIM live to make HIM known. Where do we start? It's simple - wherever you are. We are here in Okahandja and every where we turn there are those who have a knowledge of Jesus Christ, but don’t really understand what it means to “follow” Him. That’s where discipleship steps into the picture. We begin with building relationships with those who are willing and desire to know what living the life of a Christ follower looks like in practice. Once we establish a relationship by getting to know each other, a trust begins to form, and we then have an avenue to gently instill biblical principles and demonstrate Godly character.

Yes, this takes patience, time and energy to even begin to fulfill the command. But, we don’t really have a choice. It’s our Christ-given assignment. Of course, this also requires that we, ourselves are living a God-honoring life. We are called to a high standard. Knowing that others are watching can discourage anyone from fulfilling the assignment of a Discipler. But, we must not let that or anything else deter us from the path.

This past weekend, we invited several of the older boys to come and swim at our house. These are all boys that I’ve had in my Choose to Wait seminar and they also attended our youth event, but Tony didn’t know them and they didn’t know him. Well, now the foundation has been laid for the beginnings of a discipleship group. They horse-played in the pool, kicked the soccer ball around, played Bocce ball, and we laughed and played all afternoon. Sensing that they didn’t want to leave, we invited them to stay for supper. They had never tasted Italian food before. Spaghetti and meatballs disappeared from the table as expressions of gratitude filled the room. Without me asking, several of the boys cleared the table and began washing the dishes. In no time the kitchen was clean. We asked if they wanted to watch a movie. Without hesitation smiles and nods confirmed what I already knew. They watched “Robin Hood Prince of Thieves” and emptied the bowl of M&M’s and peanuts I set out on the table.

As you look at the pictures, please remember to pray for these boys. They are all Christians, but desire to know more and they have the potential to encourage and disciple younger students. They only lack the knowledge and training. Pray for Tony as he leads these boys and for me as I do the same with a group of girls. It’s a a pleasure to work with these students. They are well-mannered and respectful to us, but they have a tough life and are challenged everyday with issues of morality and integrity. They are the future generation and God has His hand on their lives to bring healing to a lost and hurting Africa. Christ working through them is the hope that motivates our work here. (Ephesians 1:15-17)

Gabriel: During a small group session, Gabriel opened up and shared thoughts that I believe were stirring for some time in his heart. “Miss, you don’t know how hard it is for a boy to grow up here in Africa. He tries to study and do his work at school, but all day he knows that soon he will have to go back home. And what does he find there? His mother and father fighting, his father drunk and beating his mother. Who will give him food? He must go to bed hungry and alone and afraid.” Then, he turned to me and spoke these words that I will never forget. “Miss, I want to be the father that you teach us about in Choose to Wait; I want to be the husband that you teach us about.” Those words inspire me every day to keep teaching, keep encouraging and keep loving these young people. We prayed in our small group for all the young children in similar situations and for each other as we commit ourselves to following Christ’s teaching and His example of sacrificial love.

Group picture from left to right: Gabriel, Clinton, Mattheus, Simon, and Dieudonne (one of our CTW teachers. He’s a refugee from Burundi).

More Pictures of the North Outreach

2008-11-03T19:27:00.005+02:00

More pictures...

Outreach to the North

2008-11-03T16:58:00.007+02:00

How far north? Someone asked. About seven hours north of Okahandja, Namibia. Now, try to capture this picture. We are now enjoying summer here. The temperature is hovering around 90 F. Nice, dry, heat, but closer to 98 in the north. You might feel a slight breeze - around 10 p.m. on a good day. Ugh! But we rented a vehicle with Air conditioning since there wasn't a Center vehicle that could make the trip safely. We packed up ourselves and our new puppy and arrived safe and sound.

The reason for the trip was for me (Catherine) to conduct a Choose to Wait teacher training in a town about 3 hours away from Oshikuku, called Omutele. Contact had been made with a pastor there and he was interested in knowing more about the program. So arrangements were made and preparations made for the Oshikuku Choose to Wait team to accompany me, while Tony stayed back at the Oshikuku center with Bella.

The training was to begin at 6 p.m. Friday evening, but when we arrived at 5 - no one seemed to know we were coming, except the pastor who was not to be found. After contacting the pastor by phone and making a few adjustments to our plans, we realized that what we had planned isn't going to fly. The community that we had entered was extremely poor and the church reflected that state. No one really knew who we were or what our program was about, only that we were christians and teaching a program about sexual abstinence. When we began to sing and dance, the young people showed up, then the children, then the older folks (out of curiosity, I'm sure). By then it was around 8 p.m. and the church was beginning to fill up.

So much for the training. The group was too varied in age and backgrounds, we needed to adjust, again. Quick! We turned the event into a mini youth conference. At one point two of our team took a group of children to the back of the church for a kids club activity. We ended up Saturday afternoon having been very well received and reaching about 80 people in that community, sharing the message of God's plan for the world through His Son, Jesus. The theme became - You have a Maker, and He has a plan for your life. The pastor walked us to our vehicle and made us all but promise that we would return to continue the teaching on Choose to Wait, stating over and over again that there are schools all around the region that need to have this teaching. We felt honored that God chose us to bring the Good News to these brothers and sisters in Christ.

They did not prepare a meal for us (we packed a lunch), they didn't provide tea or coffee, or even water for that matter - but they showed us love and open hearts. We came away full!

What a lesson that was. My plan was thwarted - but God's was so much better! Another lesson on humility to add to the list. Pictures of some of our team wearing Choose to Wait t-shirts, of some of the youth dancing, and me too. One of pastor Adam, Fillippe (one of our team) who was a translator, and Julius (the Ministry Coordinator in Oshikuku). There's a couple of me teaching, and several of the participants. You can see the various ages of those who attended.

Meet Bella

2008-10-28T21:34:00.005+02:00

We try to mix funny, light-hearted stories with the intense, heavy ones so you will keep coming back to visit our blog. We'd like to introduce you to the latest member of our family. Since we don't have any kids in the house anymore, we were lonely. So, we got a puppy. She is a lab mix and is learning where she can and cannot pee. No! Not on my carpet!

She goes to work with Tony and curls up at his feet while he's on the computer. As soon as he stands up and walks - Bella is right there at his heels ready for adventure.

Life in Zimbabwe

2008-09-13T22:03:00.005+02:00

Below is an email we received from the Director of Christ's Hope Zimbabwe. I must caution you that the stories are not for the faint of heart. This is what we are here for and what you have sent us here to help with. Names of people have been removed out of respect to those individuals.

If any of you are interested in helping Zimbabwe please go to www.christshopeusa.org/ and go to the donations page. in the notes section say that you are giving to Zimbabwe.

Dear Brethren,
I'm just sharing the following with you because these things are real and happening here. You will find an attached email I received from my brother-in-law who had visited some remote villages outside the city of Bulawayo, where I live.
I give you a couple of stories from D, a 30 year old mother of three boys, who lives in Nswazi, a village just outside Bulawayo.
D's sons are 13, 10 and 5. She had all the children before she gave her life to Christ and each one has a different father. The last two are orphans. D left the city of Bulawayo in 2007 because of the tough economic times in Zimbabwe. The two older boys are at school and she was having a difficult time with fees, school uniforms, food and other things for them, even though we had started helping. Rentals were an issue even though she was trying to sell vegetables. She is one of the better ones because she was asked by her sister-in-law to come to the rurals where she is now working on the family irrigation plant. So for her, at least vegetables are never in short supply, even though man cannot live by vegetables alone!
Life in the rurals is simple enough. However, with a salary of Z $ 5 trillion per month [ just over US $ 1, yes...ONE American dollar!], one can hardly do much. The basic staple food, maize meal, costs Z $ 10 trillion per 10kg bag. And this is the price at date of this report... 12 September, 2008. By the time you read this, it'll probably be twice the cost. That's how prices escalate here.
D reports that the shops in the Nswazi area have all closed down because there is nothing to sell. So even those villagers that have children or other relatives outside the country who send them money are not that much better off.
The nearest shops that are reasonably stocked are about 15 kilometers from the area. But that is hardly an issue because the villagers, most of whom are not employed, don't even have money to buy the maize meal. Some of them have never even handled ONE trillion Zimbabwe dollars, never mind the ten needed to buy the 10kg bag.
In the very few cases that some individuals have gathered enough money to buy mealie meal, they ask one villager to drive his donkey cart to the shops to buy the precious commodity. They cannot afford the bus [when it does come] fare at Z $ 3t per person.
One of the sad stories is about a family of about 13 [thirteen children and grandchildren] living with their grandmother. Hunger had set in so much that the family was eating fruit that had been ground and made into powder. The tree is not for human consumption really. Generally, cattle eat the fruit because of the salt in it. Unfortunately, the family had not sifted the powder properly and cooked it together with the bark and the stringy parts of the fruit. Three of the children died, many of the older ones had serious problems with their tummies.
A mother left two of her school-going children and went away to look for food for them. The same day, while the mother was away, the children started digging up some tubers as they had seen mom do so many times before. Unfortunately, the children had dug up the wrong tubers, inedible ones.
It was by the grace of God that the children did not die. At the time that Dorica related the story, the children had been hospitalised.
Many people in this village look ill, D says. And indeed a visitor would make that conclusion. But it is not illness, but hunger.
There were plenty rains last year. However, the rains were too excessive. There is enough water but the rains destroyed most crops. Very few areas in the country had good yields.
Most villagers lost what farm domestic animals they had...goats, sheep, cattle, etc. Some who had chickens also lost these to a terrible chicken disease that hit many areas of the country,again most likely because of too much rain.
These are just a few of the stories regards the terrible state in which our people find themselves. Some children go prowling at night, breaking into neighbours' kitchen huts in an effort to keep body and soul together. A generation of thieving children, whose only aim in life is to survive, are being turned loose in our society. They cannot go to school because they are too hungry to do so. Apart from that, the parents/guardians do not have enough money to pay school fees.
I just heard this morning that the two political heavyweights in Zimbabwe, President Mugabe's Zanu P.F. and Morgan Tswangirai's M.D.C., had an agreement yesterday and are signing some papers on Monday. I pray that this spells out the beginning of the restoration of an otherwise dying nation. I pray the children that society was now training to be professional thieves will now be able to go back to school. And I pray the Lord will open for us the doors to go into these communities and touch these young people with the Gospel. I pray that we will be able to teach Choose to Wait there and have youths committed to the ways of God in every area of their lives.
Pray for us and for them.

God bless you all.

Temba.

From Temba's Brother-in-law,

What I saw and heard really broke my heart. Since the barring of Donors in the rural ares there is no food relief reaching such remote areas and people are literally dying of hunger. A lady whose husband passed away had left 3 young toddlers at home and set out to look for food in the far neighbourhood, without a meal for 5 days. On return without any success she found her kids dead from hunger. She wrote a letter explaining her circumnstances and hung herself to the roof of the hut to commit suicide and was found dead by the villagers. Another woman similarly left kids hungry and went to hunt for food and on return she found the kids had skinned a puppy dog and boiled it and were in the middle of a meal eating .This is the situation that I want to bring to your organization to think and pray about. I gave M a couple of groceries from B and she was even scared that people will come at night and rob her or even bewitch her coz people are hungry.At Silobela the situation is the same. We had two bags of old clothing we were giving to my inlaws extended family only to find people almost fighting over the clothing.It was qiute a challenge for me and I think I should extend my giving more in the rural areas.This is just a bit of what happens there.

Being Human

2008-09-12T17:33:00.002+02:00

I (Tony) am sitting here working on preparing a message to give to the congregation at New Manna church in Okahandja, Namibia. Some of you may be thinking, "I thought he went to do construction?" and you are asking the same question I asked myself.

God has revealed to me that my idea of construction is quite different from His definition. I often tell people if you want to make God laugh tell Him your plans. God is showing me that there is more important things than constructing buildings. He is showing me that building people is more important.

Since I have been here I have worked on only one physical building but since I have been here I have worked in more peoples lives than I can count. God has used me to: speak healing, speak words of encouragment, be a shoulder to cry on, teach, correct, just listen, manage, and more and I am awed that He is using me. I never believed that I was a people person but to hear the hearts of the people before and after ministering to them is revealing to me that God can do all things, even through me.

I am nervous and a little afraid to share in front of people but that is why God will get all the glory and it will be wonderful, because I am not able to do it but He is able to do it through me.

I am learning what trusting in the Lord really means. It was not so easy to do so at home because I had so much and thought that I really was in control. Now I see that I probably missed many opportunities to really serve God because I got in the way.

We are His children and if we get ourselves out of the way He can use us to make a difference in our families, friends, coworkers, neighbors, communities, and the world. Please pray with me that we will get out of the way and allow God, our Father, to mold us and use us for His glory.

Zambia visit

2008-09-04T17:25:00.005+01:00

Zambia’s population is greater, the cost of living is higher and poverty is even more pronounced than in Namibia. Our hearts were broken as we traveled the roads from the border through Livingstone, Lusaka and arrived in Kitwe. Scores of villages peppered the countryside, homes made primarily of straw and some clay on the walls, rough wood fences and lean-tos displaying their handcrafted goods. At one stretch of road riddled with pot holes the size of Kansas, we had to slow down almost to a stop in some places just to maneuver the treacherous gravel pavement. The dusty roads were flanked by brittle brush, much of which was burning, smoldering, or charred.
At first we were puzzled by the people lining the sides of the road, but soon realized why they were standing in the hot sun waving to us. We watch as one by one, children, older women, mother’s with babies on their backs, older boys, scooped up a small bucket of sand and quickly threw it into a pothole as we approached. Their hands stretched toward us and eyes pleaded for payment. We passed out a few Kwacha bills, but there’s just no way we could contribute to all of them. There were too many. Maybe fifty or so throughout that 75 kilometer stretch of road. Imagine. That’s the work that they have found to scratch out a meager existence. Heartbreaking and yet astonishing to think that these dear ones are creative enough to do anything, everything they can to put food in their stomachs. I wonder what lengths I would go to if I were that desperate.

They gave us a custom tour of the Primary school building project, which is already being used even though it’s not completed yet. Serving several hundred children, attending classes in shifts, this school is located in the poorest section of the city and operates as a coop with the community. When we arrived, the children were playing on the dirt fields with a homemade soccer ball. Tony made bonus points with the boys by chasing them around the yard. They giggled and laughed as they watched others being chased, but they screamed with excitement when it was they’re turn. I wish I could have captured that on film!

On our way out of the country we couldn’t resist taking a side trip to a famous tourist site. Viewing the breathtaking Victoria Falls reminded us how huge our God is and how small we are. It’s a privilege to serve this powerful creator and to call Him Father. Just knowing that we are offering our hands, feet and resources to bring His love to His children in this beautiful country is truly humbling. Thank you for your prayers. The trip was successful and accomplished the objective intended. And now we have more friends to pray for. Looking forward to seeing some of you on our visit to the states this month!

Michelle's visit

2008-08-16T10:19:00.003+01:00

Today we say goodbye to Michelle which is very sad for us, but we will remember the precious times we shared together while she was here. She told us to "put her to work," and we sure did. She shared a devotion for the Youth Games day we hosted, and taught the "Girls talk" we held at our house for two days, she joined us for prayer and devotions, went out on the Care and Compassion visits, join in on the Discipleship clubs and had many opportunities to encourage and speak into individual lives. The fist pic is Pamela (from Uganda), myself and Michelle. The second Glen and Esther (from Belgium, training to be country directors in DRC), Pamela and Michelle. Thank you for the visit, Michelle. We had a great time touching lives together.

LET THE GAMES BEGIN

2008-08-11T19:32:00.001+01:00

We hosted a YOUTH GAME DAY. 32 young people and 7 staff gathered for a fun day at the MPMC (Multi-purpose center) in Okahandja, Saturday, August 9. These were students from the ARK (children’s home), and students from the local Choose to Wait club. They were allowed to bring one friend with them, and many of them did. We organized group games like dodge ball and dance freeze, as well as relay games like 3-legged race. The 3-leg race twist was that each team had to dribble a soccer ball while running.
Lunch and snack was served with cool drink, and as a special treat we dished up ice cream at the end of the day. They laughed and sang and danced together and we tried to capture the fun with these pictures to show you. Michelle Lenz, a youth speaker visiting from the USA, put the icing on the cake by sharing a moving devotional.

As partners you helped to sponsor this event and you should have been there to really appreciate the impact the day had on these teens. Maybe you can tell by the smiles on the faces. So thank you for helping us bring God’s love and just plain fun to these students!
We hope to host more of these types of events. This was just the beginning of a great youth outreach in this community. We will follow up this event with “Choose to Wait” classes and discipleship groups. Unlike in other parts of the world, these young people don’t have a youth group so these activities are embraced with all out enthusiasm. Please continue to pray for more youth workers and group leaders to join the fun.

August 7th 2008

2008-08-07T20:47:00.002+01:00

One by one we serve those whom God bring us. It’s not something you can plan really. It just happens. Out of the blue someone asks, “Can we share a cup of tea?” Translated, that means, “I would like to talk, can you spare a few minutes?” It doesn’t matter if we drink coffee or tea or something else. We simply boil some water, grab a couple of cups, and set the stage. The important thing is that we take time to sit down eye to eye. So we sit, sip our drink and listen. Silently we’re praying for wisdom and discernment so that we are not giving from our own thoughts, but biblical answers and encouragement that comes by His Spirit. Many times we’ve asked ourselves, “What would Jesus do? What would He say to this person?”

One is a Choose to Wait teacher who is overwhelmed with his stressful schedule, another a Country Director who is having personnel issues, and another - is a mother with three young children who is having difficulty putting food on the table.

Each day there’s someone else, and each time there is challenge and reward. Sharing scripture or a prayer with someone is never hard. It’s always an absolute pleasure. We see the burden lifted off of weary shoulders, and tear-stained faces light up with a smile of relief. That’s the reward. But, the more we have these precious moments, we realize how much we need to be in the Word every day and bathing ourselves in prayer so that we have something to give when we are asked, “Can we share a cup of tea, please?”

While the team from the Netherlands was here there were opportunities to talk to and encourage them also. Some were interested in fulltime missions and we were able to share with them and others were searching for where God was calling them. We we able to pray with them as a group and Tony even had times where he was able to pray with individual members of the team.

We thank God for the opportunities that he gives us and will continue to look for those times where God allows us to work along side Him.

August 3rd 2008

2008-08-07T20:40:00.001+01:00

THANK YOU!!!!
That is all we can say for those who took the time and the money to help get the items we asked Tom and Alice to bring to us. In the attached picture you will see a picture of Alice and Catherine showing all the items that were brought.
I can say that the tools were a blessing and will greatly help in the many projects that I will have to do while I am here. I have been amazed at how much work here is done by hand or with inferior equipment. I understand that you have to make do with what you have and with the money you have. You have helped make it a little easier to do some of the tasks that need to be done.
I am sharing the Starbuck’s coffee with those who come to our house and it is a blessing to see their faces light up to have a cup of freshly ground coffee. I even have shared my peanuts with our guests. The peanuts and the sunflower seeds have been a special treat from home that I will make last as long as possible.
There is a pastor that is working here that is from the United States and when I gave him a bag of Starbuck’s coffee he was overjoyed. He and his wife have missed the coffee from the states and I was happy that we were able to share what you all have given.The teaching aids will be a huge blessing in the schools and as we continue to develop relationships with the teachers we will have gifts to give them. The teachers are so happy to know that someone cares and that people would take the time to send them supplies. We will try to get pictures of the teachers with the supplies that have been sent.

August 1st 2008

2008-08-07T20:39:00.000+01:00

August 1
We’ve come to the end of a very busy week. The Care and Compassion Consultation went very well and resulted in compiling a document of recommendations for the International Board to review and approve. It was insightful for us to sit in on the meetings to hear from the various national care and compassion workers. We had representatives from Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, Zimbabwe, Namibia, America, the UK and the DRC. Can you imagine the different perspectives, personal and professional perspectives? Each one displayed a true desire to serve people in need, specifically those infected with HIV/AIDS, and especially those who have no one else to speak for them.

Tony led the devotions on Tuesday, and I led worship all three days, which was a sweet spot for us. It’s humbling for us to lead this group of compassionate servants of the Lord, many of whom have been sacrificing and working for years in their various countries. We are still the new kids on the block, and yet feel so welcome and well received by everyone we’ve met. Our spiritual family has grown and become even more precious to us. I guess you might say that you have spiritual cousins all over the world. That sounds quite amazing doesn’t it?
The next three days we attended and participated in the International board meeting. I was part of a small worship team which led worship each of the three mornings, another bonus for me. Tony gave a devotional on Friday morning. Now, those of you who know him well know that he has never felt qualified to be a speaker, especially in the Church setting. But, we serve a God that uses willing vessels and qualifies us according to His standards. We are offering ourselves to serve however, wherever and whenever the Lord directs. It’s His work, these are His children, and we have the privilege of joining our Father as He builds His kingdom.

Sunday July 27th 2008

2008-08-07T20:38:00.000+01:00

Watch Out For The COW!!!
On Sunday, July 27, 2008, Christ’s Hope officially opened the Ark in Oshikuku. There was a big dedication and there were around two hundred people in attendance to see the building officially opened. There were many people who spoke and said some wonderful things but there was one statement that really stood out to me. The National Director for Christ’s Hope Namibia said that he wanted to thank the children because it was in honor of them that the building was even built. It did not matter to me what everyone else said. That statement said it all and I believe that God smiled when He heard that. It reminded me of the verse where Jesus says that what we do for the least of these we do for Him.
After all the celebrating was completed several of us had to return to Okahandja that same day because we had to attend the Care and Compassion Consultation that was beginning at 8:00 AM the next morning. It is an eight hour drive during the day but at night you must drive much slower because there are animals that are often on the roads.
We left Oshikuku at around 5:30 PM and began our long journey home. At about midnight we were driving and a vehicle was coming from the other direction so we turned off our high beams. After the car passed us we turned on our high beams again. Just as we turned on our high beams we saw some dark figures on the road ahead of us. Apparently after the car passed going the other way a herd of cows began crossing the road. We hit the brakes and watched as we drew closer to the cows. It became apparent that we were not going to be able to stop in time. We ended up hitting one of the cows pretty hard and came to an abrupt stop.
Now you have to understand that the engine was in the back of the vehicle so there was nothing between us and the cows but the bumper and the windshield. I was in the passenger seat and had a very close view of the cows when we hit. The Lord had His angels working overtime because we had slowed down enough that we did not hurt the vehicle or the cow. We and the cow were pretty shook up but we were all OK.
Needless to say we drove even slower the rest of the way home. We saw many more animals on the road and because we were driving slowly we were able to avoid them all. We finally arrived home at 3:00 AM in the morning and had time to sleep for a few hours before we had to attend our first meetings. We thank God for his hand of protection that was on us. Had we been driving the normal speed limit we would have been seriously hurt and the cow would have probably been killed.
Thank you for your prayers. I am sure it is all the prayer coverage we have that also protected us.

Praise the Lord

2008-07-20T20:29:00.001+01:00

Hallelujah!!!
Yesterday, July 19th was a wonderful day. As many of you may know my first major building project was to complete the Ark in Oshikuku. Catherine went with me the first time for three and a half weeks and we put a lot of time into finishing the project in preparation for the grand opening on July 27th. We went back to Okahandja for some much needed R&R and then I returned with a team from the Netherlands to finish the job. Please see previous blog entries for the entire story.
Yesterday after a long drawn out process and many obstacles we had the building wiring completed and at around 4:00 PM we turned on the building power for the first time. We were all so excited we started singing and praising God for His provision. I almost cried it was so wonderful to see the power on.
The Dutch team was here to witness the power being turned on and to take the first hot showers. Until you have not had a hot water or electricity for awhile you do not realize how wonderful it is.
We still have many things to complete before the grand opening in one week but now that we have power we are much closer. We thank you for your prayers and your support. Without you all this may have not happened on time.
When I get back to Okahandja I will post several pictures of the building before and after. I am so blessed to be a part of what God is doing here and look forward to what He has for us next.
Walking by Faith,Tony & Catherine

Back in Oshikuku

2008-07-17T08:35:00.003+01:00

As you can see from the post from my wife I am back in Oshikuku working with a wonderful team from the Netherlands. We are working feverishly to finish the project here and are fairly confident that we will complete the project on time. There is still much work to be done and we still do not have electricity.

We have decided to hire new electricians to complete the project. This we hope and pray will have the power up and running on Monday the 21st. The electricity has been the biggest issue we have had to deal with. Pray that we will finally have success.

I have been challenged in so many ways and yet also encouraged in so many ways during the first two months that we have been here. There are many comforts that I miss but I know that the absence of those comforts has helped me turn more to my Father and to trust Him even more than I ever have before.

We still feel that this is where God wants us to be. We are going to continue pushing forward because we know our reward will be in Heaven and that is worth every trial and tribulation that comes.

I have been encouraged by my new Dutch friends and I have been blessed to be able to encourage them also. Working with so many wonderful brothers and sisters from all over the world is a bonus that I had not expected. I am seeing that we are facing the same challenges and the enemy is after each and every one of us, BUT we all have the same God and Father and He will lead us on to victory.

I am also encouraged by the emails and Skype calls/chats that we have had with many of you. Please keep in touch because we are greatly blessed when we hear from you.

Until our next blog may God bless YOU ALL!!!!

It’s OK. You can cry.

2008-07-17T08:35:00.000+01:00

Maybe you never cry. OR, maybe you’re like me and have had days when you feel like you’re on the verge of tears and if just one more thing goes south, you’ll let the waterworks loose. I’ve had a couple of days like that since we’ve been here in Namibia. Oh, I know missionaries are supposed to stay upbeat and positive, but I need to be real with you. So this story is the other side of the coin.

We spent our time in Oshikuku working very hard on the (physical) building and on building relationships with the workers there. The living conditions stretched us, the work itself stretched us and we came home exhausted, but rejoicing that much was accomplished on every front.

Tony returned to Oshikuku a few days ago with a volunteer team from Holland to complete the work on the physical building. When he called me the other day to report on the progress, his words set me on edge. “I’m afraid to tell you everything. I think you’ll cry.” So, how do you think I replied? “Ok, since you think I’ll cry, then don’t tell me.” NO! Of course I was really curious after that lead in. “What? Tell me, I’m sitting down.”

“Well, you know all the wall tile that you and Mapuna put up the last week we were here?” He began. “Yeah…” I answered. “It’s all falling off the walls.” He said with disappointment in his voice. “Yeah, we have to completely redo the entire thing.”

OK. We never put kitchen tile on walls before. We did the job to the best of our limited experience and ability. But, we really pushed ourselves that week to get about 2/3 of the kitchen tiled. Unfortunately, it was done incorrectly. And, now to hear that it was all for NOTHING! Yeah….I wanted to cry.

After getting over the initial shock, I calmed down and realized that it’s OK. We learned that everything we do doesn’t end in victory. There are moments of defeat as well, and that comes with the territory. Any type of work has it’s disappointments as well as it’s successes. Kingdom work is no different.

So, if you feel like crying today. Go ahead…. God hears you and he has his eye on you. Tiles will fall, electrical gadgets will break, fuses will blow…. But none of it escapes the eye of the Almighty. We are rejoicing today that Tony is not completing this work alone. The Dutch team is working alongside him, and they are encouraging each other in the tasks before them. Please continue to pray for perseverance and patience for all – that we will not give up, but press on to meet our goals.

We miss our family, friends, our church, and all that’s familiar, but we know that God is doing a great work and we get the privilege of having a front row seat.

With tears of joy,

Catherine for…
Tony and Catherine