A Quote

May the peace of Christ bless you and keep you. And today, may you hold those in your house close to your body and feel them breath and take in their remarkable scent and give them your love.

- Jim Chaffee

On the Road Again

Well

this week finds us traveling again!!

Since we arrived we have been able to visit with Michaele's family in Ohio. Monday we traveled to Philadelphia to spend the week with my parents. And today we traveled to Syracuse New York to visit with my Dad's parents. This picture shows Michaele doing a crossword puzzle and yawning..but not because she is bored...

We are so blessed to visit with our families these weeks.

We thank you all for the prayers as we have been traveling and continue to travel.

May God's blessing be on you this season as you realize the most important gift of his Son!!

Back in the USA

Don't know how it happened but in just a few hours of travel (16) we arrived back in America. It is great to begin spending time with family. We feel extremely blessed to be given the opportunity to make this mid year trip home.

As we sat in church today it was hard to imagine that last week we were at a preaching point of the Bhalekane church and worshiping with them.

We will be writing more from the last few weeks and about our plans in the next few weeks later but wanted to praise God for his protection as we traveled and let everyone know that has been praying for us.

(Just so that no one gets confused the picture attached was not taken in America..it is really cold here and does not have the 12 apostles)

A Beautiful Vote of Thanks

This story could not be told without an understanding of Sisatsaweni, so please see the previous post for important details!

Last week we received a call from David Tembe who is the water manager for Sitsatsaweni. He asked if we could visit the primary and high school as they wanted to say thank you to us for the Solar Water Pump that was donated by BFC November 2008. In accepting the invitation we did not know what to expect but were excited for Monday morning to come.

We all sat in chairs lining the small office, which was actually a portion of a large classroom sectioned off with shelves. The rest of the room was used as storage and the secretary’s office. The head teacher, Mr. Mahlalela addressed the group first and announced his community’s intentions of being like the one leper in ten who returned to thank Jesus for his healing. His short speech was followed by several others in the group, until nearly all had said their thank you’s. Each person highlighted a different aspect that had been helped by the presence of the water, and it was amazing to hear it all!

The primary school (1st – 7th grade) has begun agricultural classes this past school year (2009) so that students can learn to plow, plant, and grown crops. Next year they will also be adding chicken to the agricultural program so that students will learn how to care for, breed and sell chickens. The primary school is also working on a home economics class which is now possible with the presence of water.

The high school has also added an agricultural component to their students’ curriculum, and we were able to see some of the fruits of this labor. Two small fields have been planted with maize (corn) and other vegetables. Two taps have been added to the system in the high school premises to accommodate these gardens as well as hand-washing near the toilets.

The head teachers and school committee representatives commented on how the presence of water has helped retain teachers as well. Previously, they said teachers would not want to come, or would not stay very long at Sisatsaweni because there was no water available at their homes. Now teachers are content, and as Mr. Mahlalela said, “happy teachers make for better students”! He also commented that this pump has put their small community “on the map” as he has been asked about it many times from other head teachers during seminars and conferences.

Sisatsaweni is not yet without challenges, however. Although the primary school had 750 students in 2009 and will likely have 850 in 2010, they only have 300 suitable chairs for students. The high school is also in need of much-needed expansion because they can only accommodate 170 students in their school. This means many students cannot continue to high school or have to take years off before moving on after grade 7. Usually in Swaziland these issues would be resolved by raising school fees marginally for the year in order to raise funds for necessary improvements. In Sisatsaweni, however, there is a high number of orphans and vulnerable children who cannot pay the full amount of school fees, let alone a temporary increase. Mr. Mahlalela told us separately that 80% of his students are orphans.

In spite of its challenges, this community has taken it upon itself to make continuous improvements capitalizing on the presence of water. David Tembe has increased the number of taps in the system so that water is available many places throughout the school and clinic grounds. They also requested that this same gift be given to other places in Swaziland, and said they had been praying about that.
After their thanks had been said, it was our turn to say a few words. We told them about the Coca-Cola project and the fact the Sisatsaweni pump had been the first of its kind that sparked interest for a much larger project to go all throughout Swaziland, just as they had prayed. We also reminded them that just as Bethany First had been the ones to offer them a cup of cold water in Jesus’ name, now they had the ability to offer that same gift to others in their community.

Our time ended together with light refreshments, a stroll of the grounds to see the gardens and new taps, and then a group picture under the solar pump. There were too many thank you’s to count, but apparently there were not enough said to satisfy one community member present. He said, “We wish we had a million mouths to say thank you a million times!” We felt that we truly experienced that it is somehow, miraculously more blessed to give than to receive – and that in the family of Christ, you often get the privilege of reaping what had been sowed before you.

Faith for Water

Hebrews 11:1
“Now Faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see”
James 2:17
“In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.”

For many people across Africa life revolves around the daily challenge of finding enough clean water for basic needs. This is the case in many places in Swaziland as well, especially in the rural areas where large water sources have not been developed and brought close to homes.

In July of 2008 a Global Outreach team from Bethany First Church of the Nazarene traveled to Swaziland to work in a small village called Sisatsaweni, Swaziland. As most of the team worked, one team member looked up the hill at the primary school and saw a tall windmill that was not turning. He wandered up the hill to check it out and asked the teachers and other community members about this windmill water pump. He was told that it had been broken for quite a while yet the water source beneath it was still strong.

The idea of water being just below the surface and yet not accessible to the community above who was in desperate need created a holy discontent in this team member. It was a discontent that caused him to begin to research water systems in the country and to find professionals that could assess and possibly remedy this issue in this community.

Before the team went home this man had met a contractor who gave information and a quote for installation of a solar-based water pump system. This came with a price, however, and when the team got home this team member felt led by the Lord to share this need with others. Together with other members of the church he raised the necessary moneys to hire the contractor and install a new system into this bore hole. It was a solar system that would bring water at no cost to this school and the clinic.

With this project finished, the church members continued to dream and pray about the water needs in Swaziland. In March of 2009 they came back to Swaziland to do an assessment of the other 16 clinics and surrounding communities in the country. When they had finished they found that putting a solar pump at the remaining 16 Nazarene clinics came with a large price tag. The cost did not deter them, but they knew it would take a long time to complete all of the Nazarene clinics. They felt led by God to continue on this path, but unbeknownst to them God was leading others down the same path as well.

Meanwhile, the Coca-Cola Foundation was looking for a group that had a vision and a plan to bring water to Swaziland. Jim and Colleen Copple, BFC members and grant-writers for NCMI, made the connections between Coca-Cola, NCM Swaziland, NCMI, Swaziland’s Nazarene hospital, RFM, and Bethany First Church. The plan that had already been developed by BFC’s assessment in March became the basis for the proposal to Coca-Cola.

By July 2009, Coca-Cola had awarded a grant to NCMI to bring solar powered water systems to Nazarene clinics in need, as well as several community gardens. The gardens are operated by HIV support groups initiated by Swaziland’s Nazarene HIV and AIDS Task Force, and are a life source for people with HIV/AIDS. The first phase of the project began in mid-August, and there are already several solar water systems up and running, providing free and clean water to their surrounding communities.

It is the plan for the twelve Nazarene clinics and communities in need of a better water supply to receive a solar water system with associated water harvesting and sanitation systems in the remainder of 2009 and the first half of 2010. As the water supply dictates, the system is intended to serve the clinic first, then the school and church on the mission station, and finally the community. Yet this is only the first of three phases in the grant.

This story would not be what it is if it were not for the strong faith exhibited by many. It was the faith of one team member who felt a holy discontent and urgency about water. It was the faith of a team who prayed around a broken windmill in July 2008, and whose continued prayers multiplied the supply of water throughout the country! It was also the faith of those who were able to see God’s hand in the small plans of one church as well as the large plans of an outside donor. Stepping out in faith is one of the ways that God uses us to bring glory to himself and to his Church. Sometimes the glory of God comes in the tangible form of clean water in the name of Jesus – the living water!

(This article recently appeared in the regional Nazarene publication, Out of Africa.)

Five Things We're Thankful For

Every year at Thanksgiving Brent’s father challenges everyone around the table to say five things they’re thankful for. This Thanksgiving, we have a list of the things we’re thankful for here in Swaziland.

1.Michaele is thankful for celebrating Thanksgiving in Swaziland, because here it’s not a national holiday. This means that the post office is open and therefore, even on Thanksgiving, she can go and pick up the long-awaited package sent by Liz!!

2.Michaele is also thankful that this is first time she has to roast a turkey by herself. With the oven in Celsius instead of Fahrenheit, no true roasting pans available, and the only turkey available comes with “butter flavor added,” there are so many things to blame (other than a bad cook) if it doesn’t come out well. (The turkey turned good quite well, actually, but still she was glad to have something to blame just in case.)

3.Brent is thankful for the 90 degree (Fahrenheit) weather. Instead of being cold and worrying about paying for the heat, he gets to wear shorts and just worry about not sweating.

4.We are both thankful to have Colleen Copple here with us, so that we can celebrate with a fellow American (and a great friend!!).

5.And we are both very thankful for family at home and all the new “family” we’ve developed here in Swaziland. We are truly blessed!!

The Children of Nkilji

Brent and I visited Nkiliji a few days ago to visit the orphans and vulnerable children supported by the Task Force, and also to see the progress of the BFC-sponsored garden there. We traveled with Mary Magagula and Evelyn Shongwe, over rain-washed, pot-holed roads and through what seemed to be small lakes! The most recent GO Team in August left behind many children’s clothes and toys to be distributed, so we were bearing many gifts. Mary and Evelyn also brought school supplies which had been donated to the Task Force, so the children would be getting clothing, a toy, a bar of soap, and school supplies. We were all excited for this day.

The Task Force has recently joined the ranks of Nazarene Compassionate Ministries as one of their Child Development Programs. This is the vehicle through which children are sponsored and provided school fees and other support. As a part of this program, the children are gathered once a month for a meal, a Bible story, and life skills training. Since they are more orphans and vulnerable children in the area than are sponsored through NCM, these monthly gatherings include many more than just the sponsored children. Most of them are orphans, or at least have lost one parent. Most of their parents have died from AIDs, or AIDs related illnesses. Evelyn told me that many of the children are themselves HIV+ and are undergoing treatment.

Usually the Nkiliji group meets under a tree since the Nazarene church is far away; but this day they had requested the use of a nearby Methodist church building to use. When we arrived, the children were well into their Bible lesson and I was surprised by how many children I saw! There were at least 60 children from 2 months through 15 years, sitting on wooden benches and listening to the story of Abraham. We were also able to hear them sing and recite their Bible verses.

“Gogo” (Grandma) Magagula introduced us and we spoke for a few minutes to the children. We explained who are and how we are working in partnership with the Task Force. We also explained that the gifts we brought were not only from people in the US and Canada, but from Jesus, who loves them and provides for them. We moved outside for the gift-giving, where the kids lined up oldest to youngest to receive the goodies. With each child we tried hard to find at least one piece of clothing that they liked and fit them, then they received a bar of soap, a small beanie baby or ball, and school supplies.

When it was all said and done, there were many happy faces and somehow we hadn’t run out of clothing, soap, or toys! The care supporters were just as pleased as the kids were, and thanked us and the people who donated the supplies. Once again we were privileged to be in the "middle man" position, where we can pass along the generous gifts of others and see the joy that it produces!

“Before I Lived in Africa, I Never…”

…made brownies from scratch because there aren’t any box mixes.
…prayed about getting online and actually having to trust that God and God alone could make the dial-up connection work – and He did!
… used my vacuum cleaner to sweep up the nightly slaughter of bugs.
… had a padlock on my front door (everyone has a padlock on their front door).
… went so long without watching TV.
… read so many books in so little time (most because of the former point).
… played FreeCell (this started as mostly something to do while waiting to get online, but has now grown to any time I’m waiting for anything).
… bought phone minutes from a guy on the street wearing a bright yellow MTN vest.
… bought phone minutes at all, for that matter.
… washed clothes by hand in my bathtub (only once a while, not an every day occurance).
… drove on the left side of the road and the right side of the car.
… made apple pie crust without a food processor.
… spoke siSwati.
… had church for three hours on Sunday morning.
… got to see the Southern Cross in the sky at night.
… saw the beautiful purple blooms of a jacaranda tree all over the landscape.
… learned to love SKYPE so much!

The Arrival of the Container

For those who don't know, several people at Bethany First Church organized a large donation of medical equipment and supplies and sent it on a 40' container here to Swaziland for the Nazarene hospital. The container was purchased for the hospital so that they could use it as secure additional storage on the grounds. We have been working for the last six weeks with a local clearing agent on preparing all the logistics for its arrival, which was to be between October 24- 28.

However, the container arrived a week ahead of schedule on October 19. Neither our clearing agent nor the hospital was notified of its arrival. Instead, on Wednesday the 21st, someone from the railway company (where the container is stored until pick up) called the hospital administrator to inform him that RFM would be charged beginning Monday the 26th for storage of the container. We contacted our agent immediately, who verified that the container had arrived. From that point we had to move very quickly to ensure that the container could get to the hospital by Friday so no storage charges would have to be paid.

Since the container was staying on the hospital grounds, we knew we had to arrange for a way for it to be lifted off the truck bed. We had talked with The Luke Commission, who have had multiple containers delivered, and found contact information for the one crane in country large enough to pick up a full container.
However on Thursday the 22nd, we found out that the crane RFM had “reserved” was double booked and would not be available for us. This led to a frenzy of activity as we and Michelle (RFM's resource mobilization officer) looked for other options for lifting the container. Yet we knew that no other crane could lift the container while it was full. Added to our concern was the fact that we had not wanted to unload the contents all at once, so that we could do a better job of monitoring implementation.

By the end of the day we had only one option, and had to go with it. Our agent suggested a company who had a small crane and large forklift who could move the container once it was fully unloaded. We talked this over with Michelle, and decided we would try to empty the container, move it, then try to put as much back in as possible.

The container arrived at 9:30am Friday morning October 23. Brent rode on top of it with a large stick to move the low-hanging wires out of its way on the hospital grounds. The closest the truck could get to the storeroom was about 40 yards, and there was no platform for it to back up to. This meant that the contents of the container had to be emptied by hand, down to the ground and across the 40 yards to the storeroom. All of the donations had been packaged into pallets or crates, secured well with nails, and screws into plywood and four-by-fours. So, once the container was opened we realized it would be impossible to unload it quickly and then load it back up, pallets full and untouched.

Michelle made the decision to unpack every pallet and move the contents in their boxes inside the storeroom. We had to move quickly to utilize maintenance staff who were scheduled to get off work at 1pm. They used one side of one opened pallet as a steep ramp/ latter leaned up against the opened container which helped them lower the pallets down to the ground. From there the pallets were opened with the only tool available for the day – one crowbar. Boxes, equipment and furniture were carried back to the storeroom, and materials like linens and bandages were put into trolleys that took them directly to the storeroom shelves.

The hospital had hired a small forklift to help in offloading the pallets from the container. The forklift was immensely helpful while it worked, but it got stuck in the coal dust between the storeroom and the container for about an hour and half. When it did work, it carried the pallets as far as the entry of the storeroom where they were opened and unloaded.

With this method the container was fully unloaded by 2:30. By 4:00 all the contents of the pallets had been brought inside the storeroom. The mobile X-Ray machine was retrieved by one of the X-Ray technicians immediately, along with one patient bed and the lead vests. He was very excited! Other large pieces, like the steel countertop/ cabinet and several beds, were quickly implemented as well.

The container stayed at the hospital over the weekend without charge from the trucking company, and this Monday a large forklift arrivee and lifted the container into its new location near the maintenance building at the hospital. Everyone seems pleased with its placement. That same day, there was a meeting of matrons from many of the hospital wards to discuss implementation of the container’s contents. They went through item by item, saying which ward needed the particular equipment or supplies. In this way much of the donated goods are spoken for and have a home waiting for them. It will still take work to get them there, but the hardest part is finished.

Dr. Bitchong, the Chief Medical Officer, was away at a convention when the container arrived. When he saw the full storeroom and met with his staff he was exceedingly pleased. He told both of us that there were many good surprises on this container and that its contents would help the hospital in many of the areas it had been struggling with for so long. The work is not yet finished, but we are happy to have the container here, all contents accounted for and in one piece, and the hospital happy!

Working at the RFM Storeroom

The store room at RFM has been the location for thousands and thousands of pieces of medical equipment over the years that it has been in existence. A number of years ago the middle section was divided into rooms/offices and a ceiling was put over that space, which opened a second level to increase the space in the store room. Due to leaks in the roof over the past few years, that second story storage has seen significant damage to the floor boards to such a point that there were holes and nothing was safe for storage there.

In preparation for the container that was shipped from BFC, we have been looking for options for short term storage in that area. This un-utilized space was a clear need that was identified and essential for use. BFC was able to contribute the finances for the patching of the roof and the new flooring to replace the rotted floor. Once they had the supplies, RFM staff made quick work of the roof patching and installation of the flooring.

Several weeks ago there was a container of consumables that arrived from Nazarene Compassionate Ministries (Hands of Hope ministries out of Idaho) which included everything from bandages, to surgical supplies and office equipment. When it arrived it was stacked near the entry of the store room as there is always a rush to get a container unloaded as to not accrue additional charges for container rental. In preparation for the BFC container which is arriving tomorrow (Friday 23 October) we went to assist in getting things moved into the new space to make way for items from BFC.

We worked with the RFM staff for nearly three hours to get everything dispersed and organized but as the rain poured down outside (and also made it much cooler in the upper level of the store room) there were no leaks and the new flooring was study underfoot.

We praise God for his providence and the opportunity to assist with his work. It is an incredible thing to realize that the items that we were moving, which were originally packed by fellow Christians overseas, will be utilized in life saving surgeries and in many cases will be given with minimal charge to people with great need here in Swaziland. We also are privileged and honored to work with RFM Resource Mobilization office (Michelle Fidelli) to enact critical support from BFC.

As we made room for yet another container in the store room we look forward to watching how God continues to move in tangible ways to enact his miracles.

The Cattle On A Thousand Hills

Several months ago we sent out emails, letters, and visited churches asking for prayer and financial support as we set off for a year in Swaziland. The money we needed to raise felt like a daunting task in the midst of a national financial crisis. We received a flood of prayers, however, and were reminded often that God has made and will continue to make a way for his people whom he has called. He is the owner of the cattle on a thousand hills, the psalmist says, and so we were encouraged and challenged to trust that he would allocate those cattle to us as he saw fit!

We are writing today with hearts full of thanksgiving and gratitude to say that we have all the funds we needed – and then some! Four months into our stay here, we have the full amount that we will need for the year, with extra moneys available for further donations. This is yet again another HUGE reminder of God’s constant provision and faithfulness to us and to all who he calls. We know that many people gave sacrificially to make this happen, and we are more thankful than we know how to say. We continue to pray for you who have given from your hearts, that God will bless you in abundance for your generosity and obedience. We also hope and pray that you all – whether you contributed financially, through prayers, or in any other way – are able to feel that you are truly a part of our ministry here. Truly, if it was not for your generosity we would not be here.

“Praise and Prayer Requests!!”

Well we have a praise to share!! We found a replacement window for the passenger side of the BFC Mobile that we use here in Swaziland. On the 21st of August it was broken as some thieves were trying to steal some items in the car. (They did not get anything of value praise the Lord). Since that time we have been calling everywhere (even South Africa and Mozambique) to find a replacement. What a frustration and challenge but God provided a replacement yesterday. And for a very good cost. This is a praise as the sound of the plastic on the window was getting really annoying..and with plastic on the windows we never felt secure leaving anything in the car when it was parked, and it is starting to rain more and more here. Praise to God!!

Another praise from this past weekend is that we were able to attend a Spiritual Renewal Retreat with other Nazarene Missionaries and leaders from Africa. The focus was on Sabbath Rest. It was another chance again to be renewed by God and to learn from him. Also the opportunity to meet others who serve our lord and the church of the Nazarene in Africa was a great blessing!! The facilitator Cindy North who has served before in Africa was a great leader during this time and we thank her and her family (for letting her come to Africa)

We also have some prayer requests

- Swaziland – HIV/AIDS that a miracle comes from the Lord. In the past week a nationwide study/report has come out showing again the incredible odds that face the country of Swaziland in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
- For those we interact with that they can see the love of our Lord and know him and his peace. There are a few who are asking a lot of questions and need answers from the Lord!!
- For our friend Sizwe who is feeling a strong call of God on his life. For safety as he works to provide for his family (as a combi driver across borders) and for wisdom.
- For traveling mercies for Michaele and I as we continue to drive across country and borders.
- For the four district assemblies that are happening this week! Wisdom and unity for the leaders of our church in this country!

Task Force Graduation

Several weeks ago I (Michaele) had the privilege of joining a “graduation” ceremony for the newest care supporters of the Nazarene HIV/ AIDs Task Force. Care supporters are individuals who have volunteered to provide consistent care, encouragement and support to HIV patients and their families. One care supporter I met in the eastern district of Swaziland has twenty clients that she looks after, seeing each of them at least once a week. It is the care supporters who make sure these clients are getting the right medicines and staying on their ARV’s (Anti-retro-viral treatment helps the body to fight against HIV and prolongs health and life). Care supporters also work to provide food and other goods when they are needed, as well as emotional and spiritual support. Much of this support is gained through the formation of HIV support groups, some of which form garden co-ops and begin garden projects together. All of these efforts have a remarkable impact and do an amazing job at prolonging life, increasing awareness of HIV, and de-stigmatizing the disease and those who are infected.

New care supporters go through an intensive three-week training process before they are sent to do the work. I was able to join them for the closing ceremony of this training. They shared a short drama depicting a typical scenario in which the care supporters would work: A young lady who is bed ridden is prohibited by her father, mother and aunt from seeking medical help because they are convinced she has been bewitched or that is the work of some ancestor’s curse. The care supporter made regular trips to the family before finally being able to take the young lady to see a doctor for TB treatment and to begin ARV’s. When she returns, healthy, to her family they are all amazed at the miracle that has taken place and the care supporter is able to pray with the family.

I was so impressed and touched by the emotions depicted in the drama and those of the other care supporters watching it. The drama depicted the true-to-life difficulties each of these new care supporters will face, yet they were ready and eager to take on the challenge. The keynote speaker was a woman from a similar organization that focuses on youth, Acts of Faith, supported through the Mennonite church. Her address focused on why we as Christians are different in the care we provide and in the way we respond to these challenges. She said we as Christians are blessed by the dying not because we do big things, but because we can do the small work of touching and changing someone’s heart. Again I saw the agreement and even the excitement in the faces of the new care supporters and was overwhelmed by their determination to do the hard, hard work of giving the smallest acts of compassion in the face of a horrible, depressing situation.

To close their session they sang a triumphant-sounding song that matched in melody and rhythm any siSwati praise song I had heard. Yet I kept hearing “A-R-V’s” at the end of the refrain. I asked for a translation of the song, and this is what I got: I promise never to forget my ARV therapy/ I promise never to quit my ARV therapy/ In the morning and in the evening its ARV therapy (2X)/ I promise never to quit my ARV therapy. So, in addition to using drama, the care supporters have also written this and other songs to communicate to and rally their clients.

These are the wonderful men and women (mostly women) who are doing the work that will turn the tide of the HIV crisis! These are the people who are really on the frontlines, being the hands and feet of Jesus in more ways that we can count. These are our brothers and sisters who I love and have the highest respect for. These beloved people are the ones who need to be covered in our constant prayers!

The Nazarene Task Force has, at present, around 114 such volunteers in all four districts. Please join us in prayer for their leaders, Mary Magagula and Evelyn Shongwe. You can find information about them and how to donate at NCM.org.

Operation Christmas Child

This past Monday we were given the awesome opportunity to help distribute shoebox gifts from Operation Christmas Child to four schools in rural Swaziland areas. I have been on the other side of Operation Christmas Child before, assembling the gifts for a boy or girl in a certain age range, fitting them inside gift-wrapped shoeboxes, and dropping them off at a collection point. I knew that my box somehow got to a child in a developing world country, along with the message of salvation. Yet I never imagined being able to see or be a part of the gift-giving myself!

In Swaziland there are several NGO’s who distribute the gift boxes, and The Luke Commission is the last who fills in gaps that have been missed by others – mostly in very remote areas. When we started driving with our friends from The Luke Commission, I didn’t really know how remote we were going to get. We started up this mountain with our vehicles pulling two large trailers full of the gift boxes, and it was so steep that at some points I thought we would roll backwards! Each of the four schools we visited became more and more remote, and I began to see how they could have been looked over.

The children lined up neatly and quietly and came through lines according to age to receive their gift. Many of them gave shy smiles and said thank you in English. Then they sat on the grass together and listened to Dr. Harry give a short explanation that these are gifts from Jesus, and told them this was a reminder of Jesus’ biggest gift. Harry said, if you’re excited about your gift, tap on your boxes – the noise was nearly deafening! The children broke out into wide smiles and even cheered, some holding their boxes up in the air. Still, nothing could have prepared us for the explosion of joy that we witnessed as the gifts were opened!

Never before have either of us witnessed an event that brought so much joy and rejoicing. Each child received a toothbrush and toothpaste, an age appropriate gift, some candy, socks or underwear, and hat, scarf, or mittens. There was nothing expensive or extravagant in any of them, but I don’t think there could have been any more excitement if there had been. We were told this would be a once-in-a-lifetime event for these kids, something they would remember and talk about for the rest of their lives.

I was reminded again of Jesus’ words – “blessed are the poor.” It is a blessing to have such joy over a simple gift! It is a blessing to be able to receive with such open hearts, hearts that are excited and enthralled with a gift, although from someone they might not even know.

Recent Readings

Following in the footsteps of the last On-Site Coordinators (Will and Karis Stemen) we have been able to do some reading over the past months (OTHER THAN THE BIBLE). Michaele is much quicker than I so she has taken on larger books. She has read “The Invisible Cure”, “The State of Africa” and Desmond Tutu’s “No Future without Forgiveness” and is now moving onto “Compassion” by Henry Nouwen. I have read “The Invisible Cure”, “Dangerous Wonder”, “Compassion” and parts of “the Next Level” by Scott Elbin. I am now debating whether to jump into “The State of Africa” or re-read “The Screwtape Letters” by CS Lewis… but I will probably end up reading both at once and taking forever to complete both of them…

I wanted though to share some thoughts from “Compassion”. It is a book discussing the centrality of compassion (suffering with) in the Christian life. Especially as God is allowing us to be in places where there are many opportunities to “suffer with”. The book highlights three ways that we are to have compassion.

1. Patience - This is a spiritual discipline of waiting on the Lord. Waiting until the Lord is telling us to move. It is a patience which, instead of charging ahead because I am uncomfortable, waits to work in his time and in his direction.

2. Prayer – In order for us to know how and where God wants us to be and how he wants us to respond we must be in prayer daily and momentarily to hear the direction of God over the noise of culture and pressures of our world.

3. Action – From the book “Prayer without action grows into powerless pietism, and action without prayer degenerates into questionable manipulation. If prayer leads us into deeper unity with the compassionate Christ, it will always give rise to concrete acts of service. “
In a place where I am obviously a foreigner in a foreign land I naturally want to take action to validate my time and my offering to God, and yet I have a desire to act on his prompting and in his direction more than I am drawn to act for the sake of action.

I am being reminded that the only lasting action here will be that which is to bring the love of God to these brothers and sisters.

And for those of you that know me you know that patience in the face of opportunity is something very hard for me.

I pray that where you are you can have the Holy Spirit given fortitude to take action when he directs and even more so to wait when we are being asked to wait.

Correction and Update on Dr. Hynd

Thank you for so many prayers and well wishes for Dr. Hynd. We have spoken to his family and he is on the mend -- praise God! In fact, it seems the original prognosis was too dire. Dr. Hynd is still resting with his leg elevated, but there is no foreseeable possibility of amputation.

Please continue to pray that his recovery is both quick and complete!!

Vote of Thanks

We have found that during official events, when a dignitary is speaking there is a very elaborate introduction before his or her speech. Following the speech, the hosting organization will present the dignitary with a gift. Then the speaker will again get up and offer a “vote of thanks” for the gift that they have received. Then the hosting organization representative will get up and offer their own “vote of thanks” for the vote of thanks that the dignitary has offered, and then extend the thanks to the rest of the people that assisted in the preparation of the event.
So in the gracious manner of the Swazi culture (and I am sure many other cultures as well), we want to offer our vote of thanks to individuals and groups that have played a critical role during the last team as well as our stay so far.

We want to first of all thank all those that pray for us on a routine basis. While we cannot hear your prayers from here, we know that God is granting the requests that you are making on our behalf.

- We especially thank our local church -- West Side Church of the Nazarene -- for their encouragement and prayers (know we are praying for you and thinking of you every day!)
- To the people here in Swaziland that have made us feel so welcome including people from the national board and the four districts (DS’s and other pastors), Valerie Young, all of the hospital staff and administration (COE, Administrator, CMO, RMO, chief matron and community clinics matron), and any other Swazi that has smiled when we try to communicate in siSwati or ask many questions about the culture.
- To our families -- your encouragement and prayers have allowed us to be here and encouraged us to follow the leading of God no matter where that is.
- To each of the guests that we have had in between teams (Evelyn, JaNena, Bill and now Shane) -- our time with you has been exciting and uplifting as we have learned from each of you (Up and down the river..Kruger Elephant attacks, Al Denson, Salticrax)
- To each of the churches that we were able to speak at -- Your prayers for us humble us and generous financial support has made it possible to serve our Lord in this beautiful country.
- To our BFC family -- We thank you for the embrace that you have provided to us (Barbi, Pat, Pastor David and Christi). As we represent you in country we are reminded of your support and prayers on a daily basis. Can’t wait for the next group of BFC’ers to come across the ocean!!

Please Pray for Dr. Hynd

Last Saturday (over a week) Dr. Hynd tripped and fell on his knee while he was doing a survey of the building progress at his ACTS II clinic. While he thought his knee was only bruised, there was actually a small cut. But because he didn't know about it, he didn't do anything to wash it out. Now, over a week later that cut has become incredibly infected and has spread to his whole leg below the knee. He is currently on antibiotics and has someone coming to give medical care for him at home. If the infection cannot be restrained it could result in an amputation or death. Please keep him and the Hynd family in your prayers!

They feel like the enemy is trying to take him too soon, before any of the work of the ACTS II clinic can start. Thank you for surrounding this servant of God in prayer!

Weekend Update

It has been a few weeks since our last posting and WOW has it been a whirlwind. The Coca-Cola water project under Nazarene Compassionate Ministries is on its way and we have been traveling the country talking to community leaders, chiefs, clinic nurses, school headmasters and others about the work. We have also been able to take part in trench digging for water lines in the communities.

Last Friday our car was broken into, but God was with us! The passenger window was smashed and only my (Brent's) briefcase was stolen. Only a very little bit of money was stolen and there were no personal records or documents in the briefcase. In fact the thief didn't get much at all! We praise God that no one was hurt during the burglary which took place in the middle of the day. However, we have been working for the last week to even find a replacement for the broken passenger side window. “Import car” is taking on a new meaning here in Swaziland. It’s much harder to find parts here.

We are working with hospital administration to complete the Bhalekane project and look to the future on ways that teams can continue to contribute to the work here.

We are also preparing for the arrival of the container full of medical equipment sent by BFC, which should arrive sometime in October.

Thank you for your prayers, and please continue to lift these needs before the Lord:

• Please pray for Swazi Leaders we work with the Districts, Region, Hospital, Government
• Please pray for our friend Sizwe that God will continue to protect him as he works as a kombi driver and protects his spirit as God has called him to serve in some exciting ways in Swaziland.
• Pray that we would quickly find the right replacement for our car window.
• Please pray for continued good communication and quick action on the Coca-Cola water project that is now under way.
• Please continue to praise the Lord with us for the safety and providence that God has provided as we move around the country.

August BFC and Canadian Central GO TEAM!!!

To give a full report on the events of this past week would exhaust these ten fingers with typing and your eyes with reading. Each team had full, busy days of ministry and saw incredible things accomplished for the kingdom in their lives and those they were serving. In order to just give a taste of the week, here are a few highlights pulled from the number of great things we were able to be a part of.

35 HIV+ and/or disabled people were given a bucket full of food and personal hygiene items. Each person from the team who visited homes and gave these gifts were challenged by what they saw – extremities of poverty and illness and death right alongside the powerful joy and provision of the Lord.

The construction team worked alongside Swazi volunteers and hospital staff to do an amazing renovation of the Bhalekane clinic! They put in a retaining wall to level of the back entrance of the clinic, put up walls, chipped old plaster, threw on new plaster, and much more. It was really an amazing thing to see the physical and relational building that had been done in one week!
The team of artists/ photographers photographed and interviewed many men and women, capturing stories of courage and hope in the face of extreme challenges. It was incredible to hear snippets of what they were experiencing and has made us all excited to see the outcome of this in art form!

Every day the team of doctors and nurses were busy seeing patients or giving a seminar, but one day sticks out among them all. A free clinic day was held up in the northeastern corner of the country at Shewula Nazarene clinic. Amazingly, the doctors with the help of many Swazi nurses saw over 1,300 patients that day!! I (Michaele) was there for the last few hours and was blown away by what I saw.

Unfortunately there were several injuries that affected our team. All five of the senior management staff of New Hope Centre(childrens home which our team knows and visited during their stay) were in a car accident one night. Thanks be to God the injuries were not as serious as they could have been, but we were quite scared for our friends. Two days later one of our team members fell while walking on a rocky hill and broke her ankle. In both of these circumstances we were able to see the hand of God at work bringing peace, healing, and working wonders in the midst of calamity. We rejoice that all are alive and well, and on the mend!

The team ended with a trip to Kruger, which was enjoyable but in many ways a 48-hour comedy of errors. In the end everyone got to see the park and some animals, slept a little, and most importantly got to the airport on time. Everyone was wonderfully easy and flexible to work with all throughout the adventure and we could not be more thankful for their encouraging words and uplifting attitudes!!

On a personal note, Brent and I felt like we gained another church family through this trip. Although we have been serving with and for Bethany First Church now for several months, we hadn’t had time to build relationships with the wider church and pastors. Yet in the last week we have been embraced, loved, and encouraged by Pastor David and Christi Busic and the whole BFC team. We are honored to be serving alongside these wonderful people and new friends.

You prayers for the week did more than we may ever know, but we definitely felt the power and the presence of God with us. Thank you for holding us up!

August GO Team

This past week has been a flurry of activity getting ready for the upcoming BFC/ Canadian Central District GO Team. Barbi and her assistant Pat have been here and we have all been working hard together! It’s been easier preparing for this team in that Brent and I now know where to find things, how to go shopping and drive, etc. Another thing that has been so good is that we’ve been able to host them and a few others for dinners this week. It has been wonderful to share our new home with new friends!

The GO Team that arrives on Saturday will be doing divided up into several different teams who will be concentrating in different areas of the country and of service.

Medical Team – A group of twelve people (doctors, nurses, dentist, dental hygienist and two students) will be working several days in the hospital. They will also have two days of free medical care at two Nazarene clinics, and seeing critical patients of the HIV/ AIDS Task Force.

Construction Team – Thirteen people (including Brent) will be working to help complete the renovations of the Bhalekane Nazarene clinic. Their main task will be to enclose a portion of the veranda to create a new card room, and laying brick in the new septic tank.

Compassion Team – This group is the largest at35 people (including Michaele). This team will be visiting the homes of patients of the HIV/ AIDS task force to deliver gifts of food and supplies, leading a VBS for the children of the Bhalekane community and spending time at the New Hope Centre childrens’ home and at Gigi’s Kitchen.

Ministerial Team – There are five ministers (including Michaele and one counselor) who are mostly with the compassion team. However, one day will be spent encouraging, praying with, and leading seminars with the pastors of the Eastern District.

Videographers – Two men from BFC will be travelling throughout the country this week in order to capture the spirit and impact of the Swaziland Partnership. This footage will be used in several pieces for BFC and others.

Artist Team – Three members from BFC are working on an art exhibit to increase awareness and support of the AIDs crisis and Swaziland. The title of their project is “Lizinga Lemandla Ami: The Measure of My Strength.” They will be interviewing women affected by and infected with HIV to capture their stories of strength, endurance and courage. The interview and photograph of participants will then be used in creating a sculpture exhibit that expresses the stories of these remarkable women and children.

Educational Team – One counselor from BFC and an ordained prison chaplain from Canada will be working together to provide training and encouragement to many caregivers. Their audiences will include the care supporters of the HIV/ AIDS task force, the caregivers of the New Hope Centre, and Nazarene pastors of the Eastern district.

As you can see, August 8 - 15 will be a busy week for these 60 people! We are excited to have them here and are even more excited to see what God will do through and in them during their stay.

Please join us in prayer for all the many activities that will be happening in the next days!
· Safety, protection and health as we have people travelling all throughout the country
· That we would all be open to the Spirit’s guidance even if it means moving away from the schedule
· That lives would be changed – Swazi, American, and Canadian lives – for the Kingdom