I’ve been pretty busy lately hence the lack of writing but it’s raining and I have a free afternoon so I thought I’d let you know what’s new and what you can be praying for. First off I moved a little over a week ago. I’m still on base but in student housing that used for Harvest Missions School when it’s in session. I have 3 rooms and two bathrooms, a shower a kitchen, running water (sometimes),

and electricity (also sometimes). I have an entire house to myself and it feels quite excessive. The beach is so close that I hear the waves rolling in an out whenever I’m home. My bed is huge a family of 5 could sleep on it. I stack my old water boxes for shelves- it’s quite nice.

My village school has been going well I gave them a test last friday and they did well albeit with a little help. I’ve spent a lot of time in the last week trying to get my kids into schools but it’s not all that easy. Of 18 kids in my class only four are planning to join school. In addition to those I’ve managed to get 3 more matriculated by walking to homes talking to parents, filling out forms and trying various area schools. Some of the kids have a reputation and aren’t accepted anywhere. One of the boys I’ve been trying to get into school isn’t allowed to sign up for two years because of problems last year. Please pray that God provides opportunities for these kids. Above all else, pray that they know Him.

I’ve been playing worship once or twice a week. Occasionally I lead but mostly I play bass and do sound. For those of you familiar with names, my friend Chico who was leading worship and doing youth ministries left to live in Beira and basically study microbiology- possibly medicine. Chico is my African prototype and we’ll all miss him greatly. Elder is taking over his role although Armando leads worship most of the time. I love working with all of them. Frankie is a phenomenal drummer. Our other vocalists Salina, Fatima and Teresa are amazing. Things are done differently here- for one we don’t really practice. Second there’s no printed music so everything is played by ear or memory. And if you’re accompanying you just figure it out as you go. Mostly we play Portuguese or Makua worship but Armando likes Newsboys, the girls and Chico love anything Hillsong or related and Frankie likes P.O.D. This morning we loaded up all our gear and lead a worship service at another church which was a lot of fun.

So there’s a few more parts of life here. I’ve learned a lot- not the least of which is how to salvage the good bits of a worm infested mango. We lost water for 3 days- I was so excited when it came back on because I could…do dishes. Really. We exalt God and give him the glory for everything He continues to do in our midst. I hope you’re enjoying winter- I can hardly wait!