EVERYTHING -"Z" TO "A"
Nov. 2008
Planting and Strengthening Churches
In October I had a major “outing” with four seminary students. We went to work with a local church in “planting” a new church in a village without a Christian witness. Then, as a part of our weekend’s activities, we stopped at a modern day “Sodom” to strengthen the little church that is trying to keep the light of truth shining in a very dark place.
Our evangelistic outreach took us to a village on the Luangwa road. We arrived in early afternoon and immediately our “team” of four seminary students went to the boarding school (along with a couple of the secondary school students) to do witnessing. Meanwhile, I met with the local leadership and tried to arrange some type of program for the time that we would be in the village.
The team managed to share a witness with many in the school compound and came back rejoicing in the twenty plus souls who had prayed to give their lives to Jesus Christ. Upon their return we completed setting up the equipment for the Jesus film. Then we waited eagerly for the darkness to come so that we could share about He who is the “Light of the world.”
Over two hundred people were in attendance at the showing of the Jesus film. (They were a most attentive and responsive congregation.) We paused during the crucifixion scene so that one of the students could share a brief message. With that picture of Christ on the cross in the background, our seminary student stepped to the front to share about the new life that we could experience in Christ. In his appeal for a decision he asked for people to stand up where they were if they felt that they needed to make a decision for Christ. Over fifty prayed to receive Christ, and of this fifty, forty or so remained after the showing of the film for some counseling. What a great night! How great is our God!
Follow Up….
In the week following the “outreach,” one of the “evangelists” (a seminary student) came and asked if I would be willing to help him. Now, I am experienced enough to cringe just a little when someone here asks for “help,” but I somewhat reluctantly agreed to “do what I could.”
The “help” that he needed was for me to do an evaluation of his ministry and his behavior during the weekend outreach. He had come prepared with a list of questions and wanted my “feedback.” He had covered pretty much every aspect of the outreach with his questions – how did I relate with my fellow seminary students; how did I interact with the local people; was I cooperative and helpful; what about my preaching style and the content of my sermons; etc.
I was humbled by his desire to improve, to grow as a man of God, and to become more effective in his ministry. The “help” that he requested was simply a plea to be held accountable to someone else for what he did in Jesus’ name. I wondered about my own heart, life and ministry. When was the last time that I sought out someone else’s assessment of my behavior and ministry?
A former mayor of New York City used to greet people with the phrase, “Hi, how am I doing?” Maybe it’s time for us to go before the Lord and say, “Hi, how am I doing?”
Just a little sleep…please
After a long trip, a full afternoon, a powerful evening, and setting up “camp,” I was ready for sleep. It was about 11:00 when I was finally able to crawl into my tent. But any hope of a sound night of sleep soon disappeared. Two choirs had come to join in the “crusade/outreach,” and they were filled with enthusiasm at being together and with what God was doing. They decided to have a “song celebration” – which wouldn’t have been so bad, except that they did their singing within about 50 feet of our tents and that their accompaniment consisted of four or five very exuberant drummers. The drumming and singing lasted until nearly 3:00 A.M. (I think that they gave up from sheer exhaustion). By 6:00 A.M. everybody started getting up and stirring around, looking in anticipation for what God would say to us in Bible study and worship during the Sunday worship.
Under Attack
The struggles that we Christians face can come in many sizes and shapes – and sometimes strike in an unexpected way. One of our seminary professors was called to a local school on some issue related to his son. Both the professor and his wife arranged their schedules so that they might attend, what they assumed would be, a brief consultation over some “minor” incident. As soon as the discussion started with the school administration it was immediately apparent that something more “sinister” was involved. Some children had “complained” that when they played with the seminary family’s son, they would then experience “bad” dreams when they were sleeping. Also, even the teachers had started to note some “awkward” behavior on the part of this son. Eventually, the real core accusation was made – the boy was considered to be a “Satanist.” Tragically this is a label that is often used against the Lord’s people here in Zambia – not only thwarting the progress of the Gospel but also potentially life threatening for those to whom the label is attached. For the son’s safety, the family decided to remove him from that school. Pray for this hurting family – under attack!
PRAYER ITEMS
22 November – Graduation Day at the Baptist Theological Seminary of Zambia. This day will mark a major transition in the lives of the graduates and their families. Pray that each graduate will be obedient to God’s call and that the desire to be pleasing to Him may be placed above every other aspect of his life.
28 – 30 November – Prayer Retreat for the Baptist Mission of Zambia. May the Lord knit our hearts as one, and may we stand firm in the faith. I have been asked to share during one of the devotional times. Please pray for me as I prepare to share and as the Lord prepares me.
Fridays – Unless something urgent comes up I am out every Friday doing theological education by extension. By the end of this month we hope to have finished our current book of study (Kutsatira Yesu/Following Jesus).
Oct. 2008
LEGACY
In this newsletter I want to take a look back at a couple of major events from the month of September. One event relates to the dead and the other event relates to the living – and both events should challenge us all.
The 3rd of September was the funeral of Levy Mwanawasa, the president of Zambia. (Oddly enough this day would have been his 60th birthday.) We watched most of the day’s ceremonies on television – from the public service in the morning right up through the “state” service in the afternoon. What was immediately obvious was the unashamedly Christian tone to the entire funeral, and the tremendous impact that President Mwanawasa had had throughout Africa, and especially this region (over 50 countries sent “representatives” to “pay their respects”).
The annual general meeting of the Baptist Fellowship of Zambia took place during the 10th to the 13th of September (this was my first “AGM” here in Zambia). The main speaker was missionary Ed Miller and he shared several times on the meeting’s theme of “discipleship – being rooted in Christ.” As Ed preached from the Word of God he related numerous experiences from his and Linda’s (Ed’s wife) ministry in Zambia. The Miller’s will be leaving Zambia at the end of this year – for their “retirement stateside assignment.”
The connecting link in my mind between these two events is the issue of a “legacy.” One dictionary states that a “legacy” is “something that is handed down or remains from a previous generation or time.” President Mwanawasa has “handed down” a testimony of genuine Christian conversion and of the impact that a Christian politician can have within his own country and in the countries beyond. The Miller’s have “handed down” a lifetime of music, teaching, training, and making disciples. When the Miller’s leave there will “remain” from their “time/generation” a multitude of lives changed eternally. What a tremendous legacy!
How about your legacy? What are you going to “hand down” or what will “remain” after your passing from this world or your transitioning to another field of service?
There is so much in the life of King Hezekiah that is worthy of our attention and study. However there is one comment that often disturbs me. When Isaiah confronts Hezekiah with the message of God’s judgment, Hezekiah responds, “Will there not be peace and security in my lifetime?” Although I recognize that interpreters debate the implication of these words, that one little phrase “in my lifetime” pricks my conscience. What about the next generation?
“HODGEPODGE”
If you are from my generation, you will recognize “hodgepodge” as one of the categories from Jeopardy. A “hodgepodge” is a mixture of several unrelated things. So here is a “hodgepodge.”
With the presidential election looming here in Zambia (to be held on the 30th of October), the campaigns are in full swing. They lack the subtleties of the US campaigns – there is little use of innuendo and a big use of direct accusation and counteraccusation. Pray for peace in this land as a nation decides.
“Hot” may be a relative term, but “hot” here seems “hotter” than the States. Even the mosquitoes are sweating.
Speaking of mosquitoes – I would just like to say that one of the greatest torments in the world is to have mosquitoes inside the mosquito net. We have slept under a mosquito net for over 25 years now and I am sure that such preventative measures have kept us from getting malaria. However, when that occasional mosquito makes its way under the net as you get into bed, it exacts a terrible revenge.
One of my classes at seminary decided to delay their lunch break from 1:00 in the afternoon until 2:30 so that I could come and teach them during that time. They noticed that I had to wait so long between classes and so they called me to come and teach during their normal lunchtime. To me this is a great example of a simple grace – kindness.
A Prodigal Son
Fred is just one of my favorite people. From the time that I first met him I liked his personality and enjoyed his company. But it would seem that I am not a very good judge of character.
Fred just got too familiar with the things of the world and got himself trapped in a web of sin. His worldliness cost him his position as pastor and as secretary of one of the local associations of churches. It cost him his freedom as well, since he ended up in jail for a few days.
However, when I started this newest round of theological education by extension – there was Fred, embarrassed and ashamed, but also repentant. So, by His grace, another “prodigal” has come back – in His power, there is still yet a new beginning.
Crafts
For a few weeks Mary will be meeting with the ladies’ group at International Baptist Church on Saturdays. She is helping them with some hand crafts. More particularly she will be teaching the ladies how to knit. We bought several pairs of knitting needles this last week in preparation for the first “lesson” on the first Saturday in October.
Mary hopes to begin with a “simple” craft like making a dish cloth. Then they plan to move on to knitting a child’s sweater/jersey.
Pray for Mary as she teaches/trains the ladies. Pray for the fellowship that they will enjoy together – and those informal discussions that can be a great time of teaching and encouragement. After asking Mary how long we had been married, one woman asked how in the world we had stayed married so long – a great opportunity to share God’s truth.
PRAYER ITEMS
4th and 5th October – New Church Plant – Luangwa area. On these days fellow missionary John Macpherson and I will take six of our seminary students to the Luangwa area to work with some local churches to plant a new church. We will be doing witnessing, teaching, preaching and showing the Jesus film. On the Sunday morning John will take his “team” to an existing church to provide some much needed encouragement. Pray for health and safety – both physically and spiritually. Pray that God will indeed plant His church in this new place and that the local churches in that area will provide the much needed discipleship and follow up.
TEE Groups – There are over 40 men and women who have registered for this method of leadership training. Most of the group will be studying a book entitled “Following Jesus” (Kutsatira Yesu) and others will be studying the books of James through Jude. Pray for faithfulness in attendance and in personal study and willingness to do what God wants us to do.
Sept. 2008
DEATH OF A PRESIDENT
The President of Zambia died in a hospital in France toward the end of August. Right now (the 29th of August) our nation is in a time of national mourning. The burial is scheduled for this coming Wednesday, the 3rd of September.
Since President Mwanawasa was unashamedly Christian (and a Baptist), the Church has had a much larger role than what one would normally expect in such an event. It has been amazing – and a powerful testimony – to see just how great that role has become. Rev. William Chanda, pastor of Woodlands Baptist Church, will preach at the memorial service, and Rev. Misheck Zulu, a lecturer at the Baptist Seminary and pastor of International Baptist Church, will conduct the burial service.
Pray for the President’s widow, and for their six children. These days will be difficult days for them. Pray that they might each one know the peace of Christ in their hearts.
Pray for this nation of Zambia. Constitutionally it is expected that there will be a general election within the next 90 days for a new president. No doubt the campaigning will begin soon after the burial. Pray for peace within this land and that we might all seek the face of God in the decision-making process.
TEE Graduation
There were a total of 34 local church leaders who recently completed a ten week study on the Christian family. All of us were challenged by what God’s Word teaches us about His plan for our families. One of our three groups decided to have a special celebration to mark the completion of the book. Each student contributed toward the purchase of a soft drink and “biscuits” (cookies) and then was encouraged to invite one “guest” to the “graduation.”
Two events of that day particularly stirred my heart. Upon my arrival, and after the exchange of “greetings,” one of the men came to introduce his “guest” to me. This church leader decided to bring his oldest child – a young boy who appeared to be eight or nine years old. The father said that he thought that it was important to bear witness to this son of his desire to be a better parent.
One of students was an “elderly” lady. She had been so faithful in her attendance, although I am sure that it was difficult for her to get back and forth to the church where we were meeting. Her “guest” was her husband. As she came forward and received her certificate, her husband stood in front of that whole group and hugged and kissed his wife (an action that almost never done in public).
Among these “34” are sons and daughters, mothers and fathers, and husbands and wives. They have learned about God’s plan for the family, and immediately started living out that plan. What about you?
PRAYER ITEMS
Theological Education by Extension – During the month of September we will be starting another round of TEE sessions. We are also planning to start a new group. Three of the groups will be studying a book entitled “Following Jesus,” and the other group will be doing “Seven Letters to the Churches” (basically a study of the general epistles). Pray for safety in travel, consistency in attendance, faithfulness in preparation, and sincerity in application.
Preaching Opportunities – I will be doing pulpit supply at the International Baptist Church on the 14th and 21st of September. Then again I am scheduled to preach at the seminary chapel on the 23rd. Please pray that I will faithfully deliver God’s message on these occasions and that we will all be obedient to what God wants us to do.
Aug. 2008
LIVING BETWEEN THE STEPS
Greetings friends! Grace and peace to you all in the name of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!
As I have been preparing some lessons for an upcoming Bible School, I looked through some material that I had gathered years ago. In that material I came across the following section – adapted from something that I had read. Read it carefully and be challenged by its truth.
“A soldier learns to live between the steps. A university professor tells of being invited to speak at a military base one December and there meeting an unforgettable soldier named Ralph. Ralph had been sent to meet him at the airport, and after they had introduced themselves, they headed toward the baggage claim. As they walked down the concourse, Ralph kept disappearing. Once he went to help an older woman whose suitcase had opened. Once he lifted two toddlers up to where they could see Santa Claus. And again to give directions to someone who was lost. Each time he came back with a big smile on his face. “Where did you learn to do that?” the professor asked. “Do what?” Ralph said. “Where did you learn to live like that?” “Oh,” Ralph said, “during the war, I guess.” Then he told the professor about his tour of duty in Viet Nam, about how it was his job to clear mine fields, and how he watched his friends blow up before his eyes, one after another. “I learned to live between the steps,” he said. “I never knew whether the next one would be my last, so I learned to get everything I could out of the moment between when I picked up my foot and when I put it down again. Every step I took was a whole new world, and I guess I’ve just been that way ever since.””
At the first of July, I helped our “strategy leader,” Kevin Rodgers, with transport for a volunteer team. On our return from where the team had been ministering, there was a great tragedy. We were going through one of the few small “towns” on the way and met an oncoming bus. Just as the speeding bus got beside me, the driver started hooting his hooter (honking the horn). That caught my attention so I looked in the rear view mirror. I saw a woman get hit by the bus and then the driver struggling to maintain control of his bus. I didn’t know whether he would stop or not so we turned around and I sent a pastor up to check out the situation. He said that the woman was dead. I asked him to tell the people that we would report the accident at the closest police station. I did notice that the bus managed to stop eventually and that many of the people were coming from the bus back to the scene of the accident.
Perhaps the woman was distracted by our passing and simply did not see the bus. I don’t know what happened for sure – but there are images that are burned into my memory. I see the woman’s body rolling on the road. I see the chitenje (that cloth the women wrap around their bodies) floating in the air. I see the man dragging the woman’s body to the side of the road. I see the certainty of death – and the truth of that word from Scripture – “there is but a step between me and death.”
So, I challenge you, my brothers and sisters, to start “living between the steps.” The abundance of our lives is not determined by how long we live, but how well we live it. Christ makes abundant life possible if we choose to live it - now.
I am sure that you have either read or heard the observation that the “hyphen” between the date of birth and the date of death is that part of living that we should really concentrate on. We are never really alive apart from a saving relationship with Jesus Christ – and we will never experience life in its fullest apart from walking daily in fellowship with Him.
TAKING CARE OF THE PASTOR
Several of our seminary students are pastors. It always thrills my soul to see that local church striving to do something to take care of the pastor.
I happened to be out recently in an area where one of the seminary students has served as pastor. In fact I was in this area twice within a month – and on each occasion the “home” church sent gifts to their pastor through me. On the first trip they sent a bag of maize and a stalk of bananas. This last time they had gathered a small bag of ground nuts and a monetary gift.
The monetary gift particularly caught my attention – primarily because the church leader forced me to count it out in his presence (I don’t think he mistrusted me – he just wanted to be a good steward). The gift was 25,100 Zambian kwacha - which is roughly the equivalent of $8.00. By the joy of the church leader and the seriousness with which he presented the gift, you would have thought that the church had just entrusted me with a bag of gold! In fact, it was something far more precious than gold, it was a gift of sacrifice and love as a church was just “taking care of the pastor.”
HUNGRY
I met recently with a church in a remote area. It was in a place of hunger. The people had lost their first crop through flooding, and then they lost the second crop through drought. In spite of all this, they continued to rejoice in the Lord and His goodness.
Across the table from me at lunchtime (“dinner on the ground”) was an older faithful Christian man, and he was a man who could eat. First he ate his nsima (the staple corn mush of most meals). Then he turned his attention to the rice. Stage one was rice and sugar. Then he noticed that I had not eaten the bone from the chicken leg that I had for my relish – and so he quickly grabbed it up and ate it. When the sugar was finished, he tried rice with an orange flavored drink poured over the top. Yes, indeed, this man could eat – and I have never seen anyone enjoy all that he ate so very much.
I would pray for you (and ask you to pray for me) that we would have an exceptional appetite and hunger for the things of God!!!!!!
PRAYER ITEMS
Baptist Bible Schools – There are three local leadership training sessions in this month of August in the area of the Eastern Harvest Team.
- 4th-9th August (Luangwa)
- 11th – 16th August (Chongwe)
- 18th – 23rd August (Manenekela)
Pray that the teachers and “students” will travel safely and that all will remain in good health throughout the training sessions. Pray that each of the students will manage to find school fees for these sessions. Pray that we can take what we learn and apply it to our places of ministry – to the glory of God.
Baptist Fellowship of Zambia – The annual meeting for the Fellowship takes place during the last week of August.
Thompson Family – Pray for good health, godly wisdom, spiritual strength, and loving hearts.
July 2008
THE JESUS FILM – A REALITY SHOW
One of the church planting “tools” available to us is the Jesus film. Essentially it is the Gospel of Luke on film. Although the movie was originally done in English, the “voice-overs” help millions of the world’s peoples to hear the Word in their own heart language. The overall effectiveness of this tool in evangelism and church planting might be debated – but its impact on the listeners when they hear it in their own language is beyond debate. It is the ultimate reality show.
I was reminded of this once again when I showed the Jesus film at a place called Mwalumina. The headman had given us permission to set up the equipment at a soccer field/outdoor netball court. We set up our equipment, started to play some music over the sound system, and waited for the people to come.
As the people gathered and watched the film, I was struck by just how involved they became in the movie. Over the two hours of the film the people “live” the events along with those in the story. They celebrate and rejoice along with those that are healed; they shake their heads at Judas in his betrayal of Christ; they laugh as Jesus handles question after question from the “authorities,” they suffer along with Jesus as He is beaten and then nailed to the cross; they experience the movie and don’t just watch it. It is real!!!!
Herein is unveiled my concern – and embarrassment. Just how “real” is the Scripture to me?
As you read your Bible, do you read as a mere spectator? Do you read as someone un-involved, unconcerned, and indifferent? Do you read just to be able to say that you have done your duty?
How I pray that we would come to understand that reading the Bible is the ultimate “reality” experience! May the Lord move us from the role of spectator to the role of participant in His Story!
Mwalumina
We often ask you to pray about “reaching the lost” and “planting new churches.” Let me give you some feedback on one outreach event – a “crusade” at Mwalumina. We showed the Jesus film on a Friday and Saturday night, did “hut to hut” witnessing on Saturday, and held the first “official” worship service on Sunday.
On Friday night there were about 100 who braved the “cold” air (and 50 degrees with a slight wind and standing for 3-4 hours in an open field is cold) to watch the movie. On Saturday night there were about 250 in attendance. Through the film and the preaching of the Word each night we saw approximately 30 give their life to Jesus.
After a whole day of personal evangelism on Saturday, the “team” recorded a total of 42 individuals who had received Jesus as their Savior. One team member actually had the opportunity to “preach” at a local tavern – and rejoiced when six men surrendered their hearts to the Lord.
Then on Sunday, at the first “official” service, there were 23 adults in attendance (and lots of children). The Lord has “created” a new local church – and, behold, it is very good!
Pray for this new group of believers. Pray that they will have the leaders that they need – as they need them – and that they will become all that they need to become as His church. Pray for the Canaan Association as they provide guidance and nurture to this new “church.”
Twikatane and Chifwema
A volunteer team from Southwestern Seminary came to work alongside leaders from Canaan Association (with the assistance of Eastern Harvest Team members Mike and Lindy Howard) in two other “outreach” projects. Although I haven’t received a “full report,” the associational chairman indicated that at Twikatane there were 56 individuals who decided to give their lives to Christ and that there were 36 who prayed to receive Christ at Chifwema. Isn’t it great to know that God is at work!
I visited the “church” at Chifwema as they held their very first worship service as a church. They are so excited about what God has done – and their hearts are filled with great expectations of God can do through them in the future. Pray for their “faithfulness” in following Jesus – and in telling others the “Good News.”
Personal Items
I am writing this newsletter the day after Father’s Day. Since our children are on our hearts in a special way, we would ask you to continue to pray for our “boys” and their families (Van Martin and Jenn, Eric and Lisa). Van Martin just started a new job – so pray that he will settle in nicely. Pray for Eric and Lisa as they both are searching for jobs.
Mary purchased an exercise bicycle for me for Father’s Day. (I must hasten to add that she wasn’t trying to communicate anything to me indirectly. It’s just that our twenty year exercise bicycle had started falling apart – literally. Last weekend little “ball bearings” just started dropping on the floor out of the flywheel.) There are other ways of “saying lovin,’” – and not just “something from the oven.” I am a blessed man.
PRAYER ITEMS
End of Term – July is the month to write end of term exams at the Baptist Theological Seminary. Pray that the students will perform to the best of their ability – and that they should not be overly distracted by family and ministry at this time.
New Churches – In this newsletter you will hear reports about Mwalumina, Twikatane, and Chifwema. In each of those areas there is a brand new church – a new body of believers. Even though you might not even venture to pronounce their names, please don’t fail to pray for your brothers and sisters in Christ in these “new” churches. Pray that the new believers will grow, that the “old” believers will be revived, and that each new church will become all that a church should be – all to the glory of God.
The United States of America – God forbid that we should sin against Him by failing to pray for our country. I am no expert on economics, industry, etc. (or really anything at all) – but one thing I do know, the USA needs the Lord!
June, 2008
GREETINGS!
Hello there to all of our faithful friends! This newsletter has been a bit of a struggle to write. Not because we have not been busy, but because we are doing those things that we “normally” do and so there was not so much “out of the ordinary” on which to comment. Pray for me on that one, that my attitude might improve. After all, every day for us as Christians is “extraordinary.”
I am reminded of a Christmas Sunday worship service a few years ago. The pastor made an announcement that from time to time stirs my heart even today. He commented that we were having “special” services on this particular Sunday since it was Christmas, but then he added, “Of course next Sunday we will be having our “normal” services.”
Isn’t that just the problem with us today? Our only expectation of the next Sunday worship is that it will be “normal.” What is “normal” about a group of like-minded folks gathering in the presence of the Creator of the Universe to exalt Him, to worship Him and to commune with Him?
The “headman”
One of the “rules” of church planting etiquette is you never just go into a village to preach the gospel without first paying a visit to the village headman. It is just considered proper that you go and meet with the headman, introduce yourself, explain what you intend to do, and ask for his/her permission to enter into their village/area.
Such a visit takes some time and seems relatively un-important. However, this “headman” can close off completely a village or a whole area to a missionary or church. Conversely, once his permission is given virtually every “door” is open to at least hearing the gospel.
I have visited one headman thus far in May, and will visit another one before the end of May. There are two other such visits planned for June. Pray for me (and my fellow workers) that as we visit the “headmen” we can introduce them to the One who is the real “Chief above all chiefs.”
Spiritual Warfare
One of our missionaries from the Northern Province of Zambia just arrived in town today. He came to the regular Sunday Bible study and shared some his prayer concerns with the group – and in doing so reminded us that we are engaged in a great spiritual battle.
This missionary and some local believers “targeted” a new locale in their area. Apparently there were some who had heard of their coming, so when they arrived they were met with immediate opposition. Men with “megaphones” traveled throughout the villages saying that this missionary and his people were “Satanists” and that they were not teaching the truth.
The “megaphone” men stayed only a couple of days. The outreach lasted a full week. Thirty souls entered the Kingdom eternally. Praise the Lord for His marvelous victory!
The local witchdoctors have as well banded together and are threatening anyone who now unites with the local church, or any of those who will continue to worship at this local church. They have said that any of these new “Christians” should be cast out of their families. But God’s people are remaining faithful in spite of this obvious persecution.
Labola (Bride Price)
Even today, this practice continues among many of the tribes here in Zambia. As a couple agree to marry, family representatives from each side negotiate a “compensation” to be paid to the family of the bride-to-be. Our local pastor shared with us his recent experience in one of these negotiations. As a representative of the young man, he marveled at how “demanding” the representatives of the young lady had become. Of course, they wanted the traditional “gifts” of cloth, hoes, and livestock. But these folks demanded a new suit for the father of the young lady, six cows and a bull, and several chickens. In case it might be difficult to physically produce the “labola,” they indicated that they were more than willing to accept cash in lieu of “goods.”
Theological Education by Extension
Every Friday I travel my “loop” of approximately 120 miles and meet with three TEE groups. All of the groups are studying the same book – “Christian Family Living” (Makhalidwe a Banja la Chikhristu). At each meeting the groups take a short quiz on their lesson of the previous week, and discuss any issues arising from their studies. Also, I take the time to answer questions and to make some special emphases on what I think are key ideas within the lessons. On any given Friday there are a total of 30 to 40 men and women gathering to study the Word of God. I cannot express in sufficient words the inspiration that I receive on these Fridays as I see people literally “thirst” for an understanding of the truth of God – and the desire that they have to apply God’s Word to their hearts and lives. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness sake, for they will be filled.
PRAYER ITEMS
Planting new churches:
- at Twikaetane – 6-9 June
- at Chifwema – 10-13 June
Both of the above places are in one of the associations that I work with. There is a volunteer team coming from Southwestern Seminary to work with one of our fellow missionaries in trying to plant a church in each of these two places. Pray for health and safety for the volunteers and for the nationals that will work alongside them. Pray for “open doors” and “open hearts” – and that we will see people saved.
Evangelistic service:
Twin Palm Baptist Church on the 8th of June. In preparation for a July city-wide crusade, Twin Palm is having a special evangelistic service. The church members are to invite their lost friends, family members, and contacts for this special worship time. Pray that many “lost” will come on that day – and that I will be able to faithfully communicate the gospel.
June, 2008
“Blazing the trail”
Now I have been on a lot of “bad” roads (after all, I am an official PhD – “pot-hole dodger”). In fact I have been on a number of trails that were not really “roads” at all – footpaths, corn rows, etc. However, in teaching at a youth meeting I had a new experience in travel.
As soon as we turned off the main road, our Zambian “escort” got out of the vehicle and walked in front of the truck leading us through the bush. He kept looking to the right and left – trying to anticipate the presence of any tree stumps or large rocks which might be an impediment to our journey. Then, suddenly, he stopped and got back into the vehicle.
I was totally bewildered for as far as I could “see,” there was still not even a path, let alone anything that could pass for a “road.” He must have recognized my confused state as he quickly noted, “Don’t you see the marks on the trees? All you have to do is to drive along following those marks and we will get to the camp soon.” Someone had “blazed a trail” through the wilderness to guide us.
Jesus is the “pioneer of our faith” – He has blazed a trail for us through this world to the heavenly camp. How thankful we should be for the “marks” that He has left along the way so that we should know how to move and live. We should be even more thankful that the One who “blazed the trail” is also our fellow traveler – who will never abandon us.
Missionaries are “trail blazers.” One of the teachers at one of our Bible schools was assigned to teach a course on “religions and cults.” Since he is a seminary student he decided to use the notes from his seminary course on “religions and cults” – a course taught by a missionary.
This national “teacher” was going to be teaching in a vernacular language other than his own. So, he translated the notes from English to his heart language, and then his fellow student translated the notes from that language to the language of the students in the Bible school. Then those Bible school students will translate and teach those very same lessons in several other languages.
What is your testimony?
One of the most encouraging experiences of life on the mission field is getting to hear the testimonies of how people came to have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. Let me share some of these with you – just as they were presented to me.
- J – “My life before being saved was not very good, I was very undispline no respect even to the old people…I didn’t believe that there was God. But one day there was a crusade at our school which was brought by the Baptist missionaries, the first film was Jesus film. By that time I was very sorry to see Jesus being crucified on a cross because of me a sinner. I felt very sorry in my heart and after message there was an altar call and that night I gave my heart to the Lord Jesus and I received him to be my Lord and Savior…” (J is a pastor and the chairman of the associational evangelism committee.)
- N – “A friend came to my house to visit with me. He said that there was a meeting at the church and we should go there. The preacher opened to the book of Romans – chapter 8:12-14. The Holy Spirit worked in my heart to help me to become a child of God.”
- E – “Before I was saved I used to go to church because it was my chance to speak to the young ladies. (He was looking for a girlfriend.) On one of those trips the Baptist pastor spoke a message which touched my life and I realized I was lost. This pastor, and others, continued to teach me and strengthen me in the faith. I have come to see that God wanted my life, and now He is the owner of everything in my life.”
- V – “All my life I grew up a religious person, but what I didn’t know was that one can receive Jesus Christ and be forgiven or your sins. A friend of mine read Luke 19:10 and John 3:16-18 to me. These scriptures helped me to understand the way of salvation and how lost I was. I gave my life to the Lord Jesus Christ in 1999 and from that year down the line my life has totally changed.” (V is a public school teacher and very active in her local church.)
What is your salvation testimony? Have you reflected on how you came to be saved, or equally important, have you shared with anyone recently how you came to know Jesus Christ?
“I’ve never seen that before.”
Some of the Bible School students were more excited than usual in welcoming me to the first class of the day. It seems that the night before the cook had discovered some “un-welcome” company lying around her cooking pots. A puff adder had chosen to come and visit the cooking area. One of the students responded quite quickly and killed the snake before any harm was done. They had saved the “body” for me to see.
I have seen a few puff adders in our African pilgrimage. This one had to be number one in my experience in length and size. I figure that it was about four feet long and its body was at least as big around as the upper part of my arm. Yes, indeed, I had never seen anything like that before.
For those who have visited Africa (or who have seen pictures or film of Africa), you have come to know that the Africa woman carries a large variety of things on her head – buckets of water, bundles of firewood, bags of maize, etc. I have even seen a woman carrying an empty coke bottle. But recently I have seen my first “hammer head.” As I was traveling in the bush, I came upon a group of women walking together with various and sundry items on their heads – including one lady with a sledge hammer balanced perfectly on her head. I had never seen that before.
“No eye has seen, no ear has heard, no mind has conceived what God has prepared for those who love him” (1 Cor. 2:9)
PRAYER ITEMS
There is a volunteer team coming during the first two weeks of June to work in some church planting. We have targeted two villages within the area served by the Canaan Association as the places where we have been led to do this ministry. Pray for the health and safety of all involved – and for boldness and perseverance.
Pray for our ongoing ministry activities. Mary serves faithfully in the treasurer’s office daily. Pray that the Lord will continue to grant her the blessing of “satisfaction” as she ministers to our extended mission family throughout several countries. Also, pray for my “teaching” ministry as I teach two classes at the seminary and meet with three theological education by extension groups every Friday.
April, 2008
HUNGER RELIEF PROJECT
The folks along the Lunsemfwa River have had a rough year. The ongoing rains flooded their farmland and they were forced to stretch out last year’s harvest as long as possible.
Kevin Rodgers, the Eastern Harvest Team Leader, became aware of their suffering during his church planting ministry along the shores of the river. Consequently, he led our “team” to reach out in love to the people in this area.
Over a two day period we distributed 200 x 25 kg. bags of corn flour to over a hundred families living along the river. As the people came to the collection points (one on each side of the river), we saw the genuineness of their need, and their joy in receiving. Some had been four days without any nsima (the corn mush that is the staple food of so many Africans). Many people made a journey of four to five hours – one way – just get this flour.
As Kevin ferried most of the flour to the collection point on the other side of the river, others of us had the opportunity to share “spiritual food” with those who came to receive the food for the body. Of the 50 or so adults on “my” side of the river, seven adults came forward and stood in front of their peers, publicly testifying that they had given their lives to Jesus Christ. On the other side of the river, many more people trusted in Christ. We had a great two days to the glory of God!
As I write this my heart is full of joy and thankfulness to the Lord for allowing me to be a part of this project. I am thankful for the Lord’s protection – especially for Kevin as he made trip after trip up the river (in his small boat he could only manage 8-10 bags of flour per trip). Remember, this is Africa, so there were crocodiles and hippos that consider this river to be their home (the noise of boat’s engine supposedly makes them vacate the “premises” temporarily). I am thankful for the joy of working shoulder to shoulder with Zambian pastors/church leaders. I am thankful for your faithful praying and giving – your “gifts” purchased the boat (just a few years ago) and they provided the flour for hungry people. Your prayers were the “vanguard” of our preaching and sharing as souls were saved and the gospel “seed” was planted.
This was my first trip into this particular area. The journey proved to be quite interesting. Kevin and his family led the way – and I followed in our truck. There were stretches in the road where you were surrounded by grass as high as the windows in the truck and over its “hood” as well (the truck was like a giant “lawnmower”). Literally, there were some places where I could not see the road at all – in front or in the rear. I just kept driving knowing that there must be a road – after all, my brother had just driven ahead of me. I just kept it as straight as I could – daring not to veer off to one side or the other.
So it is with walking by faith. There are times when all of your physical senses and earthly knowledge tell you that there is no way, no “road,” and no hope. But He is the “pioneer” of our faith – having traveled the road. Let us follow Him!
Mzukwa
While we were at the meeting mentioned below, we had the opportunity to catch up with some of our Malawi missionary colleagues. With all of our involvement with the seminary in Malawi we of course wanted to know about some of our former students. Many of them are doing quite well – but one in particular cheered our hearts.
Let me tell you about “Greysham.” In spite of his many physical handicaps, Greysham managed to get through secondary school and then on to our seminary. Although he was not an especially gifted student, through his perseverance and faith in God, Greysham successfully completed his studies a couple of years ago and now is the pastor of “Chisomo (Grace) Baptist Church.” According to all reports he is an outstanding pastor, and the church is growing from strength to strength. That’s really quite an accomplishment for a nearly blind orphan boy, isn’t it?
Oh, yes, Greysham is also an “mzukwa” (a “spirit, ghost”). He is an albino. In an earlier generation, Greysham would have been killed shortly after birth – since they would have assumed that such an anomaly must have been the result of “witchcraft.” But God specializes in taking the outcasts of society, the forgotten, the neglected, the weak of the world, etc. to shame the strong.
Are you available to God?
CESA Sectional Meeting
The southern and central section of our region met in Johannesburg, South Africa for our annual missionary training meeting (we met as a combined group rather than as an “individual” country). About every five years we try to have this “combined” meeting as a way of mutual encouragement, fellowship, and training. It is a powerful experience to be worshipping together with your missionary colleagues from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Madagascar, Mozambique, Malawi, Angola, Namibia, and, of course, Zambia. The days were full of training experiences – personnel mobilization, urban and rural church planting strategies, mentoring, etc.
In the early mornings and late afternoons we met for worship and praise. Our hearts were particularly challenged by the preaching and teaching of Dr. Gordon Fort, the Vice President of Overseas Operations for the International Mission Board. His emphasis on “obedience in the details” and being truly holy in the sight of God and in all our relationships found a fertile soil in our lives – and I am sure that it will continue to bear fruit in the days ahead.
Miscellaneous
On my way to the seminary I have to maneuver through 3 or 4 roundabouts – and a most difficult four way stop. In our year in Zambia I have had the majority of my “close calls” at that four way stop. Apparently I need to do more study on the exact “code of the road” for such a stop. From my observation thus far I would assume that the basic tactic is “driving by intimidation.” In other words the approach by most of the people at this stop is “don’t stop,” just as long as you keep moving the other people more likely than not will stop for you. Isn’t this the fundamental problem with many of us – all of us want the “right of way” all of the time, even when we need to stop.
903-530
There are 903 “nations” (people groups) in our region of the world. Many of them are “unengaged” (there is no missionary presence) and/or “un-reached” (less than 1% of the population has an evangelical witness). This is a major challenge for the 530 missionaries of the International Mission Board who serve in this region. We need help! Pray for us!
PRAYER ITEMS
Pray for our local leadership training meetings (Baptist Bible School) during the month of April. We will have three schools going during the month – in consecutive weeks. Pray for travel safety, good health for all involved, and a heart to learn and listen – all for His glory. The dates and places are as follows:
- 7-12 April – Luangwa
- 14-19 April – Manenekela
- 21-26 April – Chongwe
On the 20th of April I will be preaching at Twin Palm Baptist Church here in Lusaka. As always, I will stand in need of your prayer support – and His grace.
Around the 21st of April there is the beginning of a new term at the seminary. This time I will be preaching the second homiletics course. Pray that I will communicate clearly on how to communicate clearly.
February, 2008
BITS AND PIECES
One of the most interesting experiences of this month was with the young man that I picked up at the Luangwa Bridge. He needed a ride to Lusaka – a journey of about 3 hours. This young man was a “military” man and apparently well educated – he expressed himself quite well in English. He was a Christian (with a Pentecostal church) and when he realized that he was among brothers in Christ, he had some questions about Christianity and culture.
Of greatest concern to him was protecting his three month old child (a baby girl) from evil spirits. This man stated that the “parents” were pushing them for a “cleansing” ritual to protect the child. So far he had told them “no.” One of the relatives suggested that they get some dirt from a well-traveled road, mix it with water, and then bathe their child for the next three days in that water. This should protect the child from the evil spirits. The reasoning was that there were many types of people who traveled that way – from all different directions – and there would be those who had already acquired protection from evil spirits. Also, the evil spirits would be “confused” and not likely be able to locate his daughter.
From our Western world perspective, we would probably consider the young man’s concern with a lot of skepticism – and a touch of humor. However, this young man was “deadly serious” in his search for help – and he is representative of so many of his generation as they struggle with traditional culture, practices and beliefs. Before we discount them as being too “superstitious,” let us being willing to confess that at least they are aware of the spiritual battles that are constantly taking place and are involved in the battle daily – unlike many of us who are relatively “weak soldiers” in the Lord’s army.
Recently, at Twin Palm Baptist, the children’s Sunday school classes sang this inspiring and challenging chorus:
“I am on the Rock, the Rock at last, I am on the Rock at last,
My soul has found a resting Place; I am on the Rock at last.”
“…And what about you?”
“In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye”
I am making this entry on the 11th of February. It has been an “unusual” day, as on this Monday I have attended my first funeral in Zambia – and it was one that I am not likely to forget.
It was on the 8th of February when a pastor (a military chaplain actually), his family (his wife and only child, a daughter), and others were traveling in the eastern part of Zambia. In a moment, in the “twinkling of an eye,” lives were changed forever.
Suddenly a child runs out of the bush into the road and the pastor swerves to miss the child. The vehicle drops a wheel in one of the large potholes on that section of the road and the vehicle flips. The pastor and another survivor were thrown from the vehicle. The pastor’s wife and child, and another lady, all died on the scene.
But there is a bit of underlying tragedy in the previous statement, “they all died on the scene.” It seems that the pastor revived shortly after the accident (both arms were broken and there were some head injuries) and made his way to his wife and daughter. The wife was dead – probably on impact. However, the daughter was still breathing. Despite the pastor’s best efforts to get someone to help, several vehicles passed by the scene without stopping. That precious child perhaps would be alive today – if only someone had gotten involved sooner. So this afternoon at Twin Palm Baptist Church there were 3 caskets at the front of the church building.
Yet we “do not grieve as those who have no hope.” Yes, there were many broken hearts and there was much grieving as we gathered as the family of God – perhaps a thousand or more of us. At his insistence, the pastor was temporarily discharged from the hospital to say farewell and to grieve with his Christian “family.”
There were testimonies from colleagues and classmates and leaders and laymen. There were songs of faith, hope and assurance from the choir and the congregation. The preacher challenged us with the fact that Jesus is the resurrection and the life – and that these three deaths should cause us all to reflect on our own eternal destiny. We all knew – this could happen to us, or one of our loved ones. Are we (YOU) ready?
“The People on the Bus Go…”
Recently I traveled a long journey with a Zambian pastor and he helped me to see his country through his eyes. Along the way, we passed several buses. As we came up behind one bus, the pastor mentioned that this was the bus line that he always traveled. Since this bus didn’t look particularly different from the “many” others that we had seen, I asked him why he chose this particular bus line. He said it was because on these buses, before they would start their journey, they would enquire if there were a pastor on board. Then they would allow the pastor to lead them in prayer for the trip – or even to preach a little. I wondered how that would go over with public transport in the United States. Have you had any bus trips or flights recently that started with a word of prayer?
“L” and “R” Strikes Again
It is just one of those things in Chinyanja that the “l’s” and the “r’s” are interchangeable. In Chinyanja that isn’t a major complication – but when the Nyanja uses English, it makes for some interesting conversations.
On Valentine’s Day I entered a hardware store to ask about some WD 40 – or whatever product that they stocked. The worker looked extremely puzzled at my request. So, I then explained how we normally use this “spray” – to loosen rusty locks or bolts. The “light” suddenly came on in his thinking. He responded, “You are looking something for lusting.” (We have lived in Africa long enough to know exactly what he really meant.)
Maybe I should have responded with something like, “Well, you know the Holy Spirit really helps me deal with that issue.” On second thought, the Holy Spirit not only deals with “lusting” but also “rusting.” It seems like there are a lot of “rusty” Christians that need to be “loosened” up in the power of the Spirit so that they would become usable once again in His service.
PRAYER MATTERS:
Several areas of Zambia are dealing with severe flooding. Thousands have lost their homes and many will face a “hungry” year because of crop damage. Pray that we will know how to respond in terms of hunger relief and aid to these sufferers.
Pray for the Chongwe Bible School. Our next session is the 3rd through the 7th of March. Pray for the health and safety of students and teachers – and that it will be a good week of learning. Also, pray for the graduation ceremony that will take place on the 8th of March. We are hoping to have several graduates. Thank the Lord for their perseverance over these three years of study and for that unique ministry that God has given to each one of them.
The missionaries of CESA (Central, Eastern, and Southern Africa) will come together for a major meeting in Johannesburg, South African during the 24th – 29th of March. Pray for our safety in travel, sweetness in fellowship, and surrender in worship.
January, 2008
HIGH-LIGHTS, LOW-LIGHTS, & NO LIGHTS
Greetings friends! We missed the month of December with our newsletter so this month of January will give us an opportunity to catch you up on the past events, to give you a look at present activities, and to share with you what is planned for the near future. In the midst of it all, there will be a mention of some “high-lights, low-lights, and no lights.”
HIGH-LIGHTS
Mary and I used our vacation time to make a trip to the States in December 2007 – and pretty much the whole trip was one continuous blessing from the Father. It was a month of “high-lights.”
On the 14th of December we were able to attend Eric’s graduation from Campbellsville University. We are so proud of his hard work and this accomplishment in his life. The really “awesome” part of this experience was that this was the first December graduation “ceremony” in the one hundred history of Campbellsville University. So we actually got to see Eric walk across the platform. We really felt like God had arranged all of this with us in mind.
Then on the 22nd of December, Eric married Lisa Agra. The wedding took place in The Dalles, Oregon (which is about 80 miles east of Portland). Mary and I went out there just a few days early and we celebrated our own anniversary (32 years on the 20th of December) while we were there. I had the privilege of being Eric’s “best man” (and I certainly looked like the “best man” in that tux) – and, in addition, I was give the opportunity to share a few words and to pray for Eric and Lisa during the ceremony.
In The Dalles, Oregon, we were in beautiful country. However, it took us a couple of days to realize it. We arrived in rain showers and for the first couple of days there were low-lying clouds and mist. Then on Friday morning I went out to get something from the car – and there in all of its beauty was snow covered Mt. Hood. What a breath-taking sight!
Of course the mountain had been there all of the time – the environment was as such that we just couldn’t see it. So here is my “sermon” – sometimes the situation will be as such as though you might wonder where in the world God might be! He is there! He is with us! He has not moved nor has He suddenly decided to appear. We are either allowing other things to block His presence – or we are living according the pattern of this world (living by sight).
We departed Portland on the 23rd of December and arrived in Louisville on Christmas Eve. That afforded us the blessing of being with Van Martin and Jennifer for Christmas in their new home. It was just another of those great “high-lights.”
My list could go on and on and on. There were great visits with family and friends, good food (2-inch thick pork chops and coconut pies with 7-inch high meringue, cabbage biscuits, country ham and biscuits, all you can eat buffets, etc.), and gracious words (of encouragement, mercy, and love).
Low-lights
One African proverb says “walira mvula, walira matope” (“when you cry for the rain you are also crying for the mud”). It is a reminder that in the midst of blessings – there are some not so wonderful things that go along with it (which probably help us to appreciate the blessings even more). Right at the top of my list of “low-lights” is the inability on our part to see many of you. How we longed to be with many of you face to face!
Suitcase problems struck us once again on our return to Lusaka. All of the flights were relatively smooth and on time. However, when we got to Lusaka, our suitcases didn’t get there. In fact, not one of the four made it with us. We were certainly not alone in this “problem.” Approximately half of our flight had one or more missing pieces of luggage. But we are thankful that over the next three days (with three or four trips to the airport) eventually we received all four of our suitcases – in good shape and with nothing missing.
No Lights
Strange things sometimes happen. We have been so thankful to have much more reliable electrical service here than what we had in Malawi. But then in this month of January there have been a few more problems with the electricity. Two nights in the last couple of weeks there has been a nationwide power outage. There was no power in all of the country of Zambia – other than those who were fortunate enough to have generators.
One of the great benefits of living in the “Third World” is that it helps to put life in perspective. We complain about a “power outage” – while we have a multitude of people who live their entire lives with no electricity. Are you losing your sense of thankfulness – for the “little” things of life?
He is coming!
I had the opportunity to preach at Twin Palm Baptist Church recently. It is the “home church” of the President of Zambia. I had heard that he attended as regularly as his time would permit, but had not been when he was in attendance.
On this particular Sunday morning, as soon as we arrived, we were notified that the “First Lady” would be coming for worship, and that I would need to be outside to receive her. As soon as she arrived, she told us immediately, “He is coming.” Within a matter of minutes, the President himself made his appearance (along with all of his entourage – bodyguards and the like). They were both attentive to my preaching, and they were very gracious in their compliments.
I have thought much about her statement – “He is coming.” We too are to announce a “coming” – but this will be the coming of One greater than any President of any nation. Tell you neighbors and your friends – the King is coming!!!!!
DATES ON OUR CALENDAR:
- Fridays – I do TEE (theological education by extension) courses at Lwimba and Njolwe. We are currently working through the book entitled “The Shepherd and His Work” (Mbusa ndi Ntchito Yake).
- Wednesdays (noon to 1:00 pm) and Thursdays (2:30 – 4:30 pm) – I teach a course at the seminary. This term my course is “Sermon Building” (the first “preaching” course for the students).
- 2-4 February – I make a trip to Chipata (several hours east of Lusaka) to discuss the possibility of organizing a BBS there, to visit with a missionary colleague, and to preach.
- 5 February – I preach at the seminary chapel.
- 11-16 February – There is a Bible School (local leadership training) at Luangwa.
- 21 – 29 February – CESALT – This is a “Central, Eastern, and Southern Africa Leadership Training” meeting which will take place in Johannesburg, South Africa. Mary is the actual participant – and I am the spectator. We both have doctors’ appointments on the 22nd of February – just before the meeting begins.
- Mondays through Fridays (and sometimes Saturdays – and always online) – Mary is in the treasurer’s office.
- Sundays – More often than not we are somewhere preaching the Gospel (and always praising Him!).
PRAYER ITEMS
All of the activities that you will find in the “calendar block” of this newsletter need your prayer support – leadership training, travel, meetings, daily ministry, etc.
Pray for Eric and Lisa as they begin their journey together as “life partners.”
RVA – stands for Rift Valley Academy, a school primarily for missionary kids from many parts of Africa. RVA is located in Kenya, about an hour’s drive from Nairobi. With all of the unrest and violence in Kenya in recent days, all of us are “concerned” about these missionary kids. Please pray for the school leadership as they continually assess the situation (and they do a wonderful job). Also, pray for Kenya – its leadership and all those involved in mediation and reconciliation.
Zimbabwe – This country continues to struggle. The stories of heartache and suffering are almost beyond belief. Pray for free and fair elections, for hunger relief, and for a new day of peace and stability.
December, 2007
MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!
Ah, yes, it is that time of year once again. Christmas is truly one of my favorite times of the year – and not just because of Christmas. Mary and I were married on the 20th of December – and this year will mark our 32nd anniversary. It looks like another member of the family will add to the “special-ness” of the Christmas season.
Eric and Lisa will be getting married in this month of December. Their wedding announcement reads:
Mr. and Mrs. Walter Agra-Filho
request the honour of your presence
at the marriage of
their daughter
Lisa Deloris Agra
to
Eric Douglas Thompson
Son of Dr. and Mrs. Van D. Thompson
Saturday the twenty second of December
Two thousand seven
at 2 o'clock
Covenant Christian Hood River
550 Riverside Drive
The Dalles, Oregon 97058
Reception Immediately Following
“I’m singin’ in the rain…”
It is that time of year when there is a lot of anxiety over the coming rains. Will the rains come in “good time?” Will it be a normal rainy season?
At a recent TEE (theological education by extension) session, I noted that our attendance was down – and yet there was a rather large gathering of people near to where we usually meet. As I was providing transport to some of our students, one of them mentioned that this was the day for a “traditional ceremony” for his people. When I enquired further, he added that this was a “rain” ceremony – asking for the ancestral spirits to send the rain.
Shortly thereafter, I attended the worship services at one of
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