Home away from home...

Last week the team from Phoenix arrived and it was nice to greet them all at the airport. There were many familiar faces and some new ones. They came just at the right time, as I continue to get settled here in South Africa I was surrounded by a reminder of home. On Sunday I was installed as a missionary to Ntshongweni by Pastor Arnie and I was surrounded by the team and Pastor Thwala, Pastor Erickson, Pastor Arnie, Pastor Schroder and Pastor Thompson. I was filled with so much joy and I knew that God was there, I could feel it. Afterwards there was fellowship with folks from the community, Phoenix Lutheran Church, Westville Lutheran Church and many friends that were made from previous trips. What an amazing day, I will never forget it.

The week was filled with many things. Finishing Margaret's house was top priority. The team brought sewing machines and Linda F. and Norma taught sewing to about 16 of the ladies in the community. They were thrilled and enjoyed making aprons, lamp shades and bags. Some of the ladies held pre-school in the Center of Compassion. On Monday there were only a few children but by Friday many came and it was bustling with activity. It gave a great snapshot of what the creche (nursery school) will look like once it is opened. Heidi and Lisa did a wonderful job adding special touches to the Center of Compassion. Pastor Thwala asked if they could paint a scripture on the wall and he chose "God is Love." Carpentry tools were purchased to help teach the men in the community. The week went by quickly and on Friday the house was dedicated to Margaret and she was presented a Bible that the team signed. Unfortunately the house was not finished, all it needs is the roof and that should be completed this week. So Margaret will have a moving day very soon.

The weekend came and the team headed to the Victoria Street Market for some quick shopping before heading up to St. Lucia. When we arrived in St. Lucia our first event was a boat trip on the estuary where we saw birds and lots of hippos. It was amazing how many they were and they were quite playful, so we got lots of great photos. The next day we headed to the first game reserve founded in the 1800's. We has a 6.5hr game drive ahead of us and we were all excited to see the animals. So what did we see....hmmmmm We saw elephants, zebra, giraffe, impala, nyala, wildebeest, warthog, cape buffalo, rhino. Unfortunately we did not see the lion or leopard. Maybe next time. It was a wonderful week and it was hard to say good-bye to the team. I know that God called me here to South Africa to do his work and to be his hands and feet. So that is where my focus must be. God will give me all that I need and I will continue to trust him.

To my family and friends I love you and miss you. Thank you for the prayers.

Sala kahle