Life to the Fullest

We're married...

2010-05-04T04:41:00.000-07:00

and ridiculously happy! It was wonderful to see everyone. Each of you added joy to our wedding and homecoming. As you can imagine, we are overflowing right now. God is so good!

A quick update for now: we are both living in Nairobi - together at last. (I said a bittersweet goodbye to my friends in Uganda before the wedding.) Phil is already back in the office, and working hard for his team and the people of South Sudan. I am learning Nairobi and seeking God for my place here.

In two things I am confident right now, I am blessed to be here with my two great loves (God and Phil) and I am enjoying them both very much!

We are working on a new "joint" blog so that we can share our photos and stories from one site. It is very much in the construction stage right now, but by next week we should have some fun stuff on there (wedding, honeymoon photos, etc...). Here is the new link: www.philandmel.wordpress.com.

Again - our sincere thanks to all of you for celebrating with us - God blessed us so much through you!

Happy Birthday, Love!!

2010-02-22T04:39:00.000-08:00

Thanks for being my wonderful fiance. My best friend. THE man of God in my life.
I am head over heals crazy about you - so grateful to God!
I love you so much!!!

To the Sullivans and Co.

2010-02-18T01:01:00.000-08:00

Hey Corbin!

We had some fun with your project. I'm sorry that I am not a better photographer, but here are some pictures of your monkey in Africa with me and my "family" in Buremba, (Southwest) Uganda. We felt so blessed that you thought of us.

Moses also LOVED the clothes and all of the toys that you and your friends sent us. Every time he wore a piece of your clothing, he would tell me that he looked "very smart" - with a big smile on his face! He means that he looks very handsome. You made him feel very special and so happy!

Know that I love you, Corbin. I hope to see you again someday soon. You are welcome to visit us in Kenya anytime - we'll take you out to see some wild safari animals.

I am passing your project on...

Take care and have some fun today!

(Mel and Moses in our village, Buremba)

(Our family: Mark, Moses, Mel, Akankwasa, Jane, Jackie, Sande)

(Moses LOVED your monkey - sorry it's going to be a bit dirty from him playing with it)

(My precious Moses again)

Your Gift

2010-02-16T23:11:00.000-08:00

On behalf of my team, THANK YOU so much for the bibles that you so graciously provided. We trust that our Lord will use His Word mightily in each home and heart.

(Mark and Mom)

(Amos and Akankwasa: this was Amos' first bible)

As I prepare to leave, it is a blessing to know that every member of my team can now read and share God's word in their own language daily.

God is good! Your gift is evidence of that.

Mara and more...

2010-02-16T03:37:00.000-08:00

We got up early each morning to go on game drives, take photos, and enjoy the fresh air. We had a really fun van whose top would open up so we could peak outside and feel closer to the animals.

Phil and I both agreed that this trip was extra fun with our parents. We loved sharing all of the excitement and awe together. It seemed like every 5 seconds someone was smiling and saying "woah - look at that!"

After a couple days at the Mara, we headed back to Nairobi to prep and enjoy Thanksgiving dinner. We were so grateful to be together that it hardly mattered what we ate, but we still managed to pull off something traditional. Turkey, potatoes, pumpkin pie...mmm...we loved that we were able to share it together.

The next day, my parents and I left for a little adventure in Uganda. I took them to my village, Buremba, to meet my team and Moses and to sleep in the "bush" for a few days. They did great!! And fortunately God spared my mom from seeing or hearing the mouse in the their room. Haha - Dad and I were a bit worried after we spotted it. ;)

My mom and dad poured out so much love to my team and to our community. Everyone loved them, and felt cared for by them. They even raised money to buy bibles in the local language to give to each member of my team. Many of them told me later that it was their first bible. God was good to use my parents and their church in such a power way. After giving away bibles to the team, we danced and sang and ate our goat. It was wonderful to see everyone so joyful!

After Buremba, my parents were able to spend a day with me in Kampala and then they returned to the States. It was a hard goodbye, but it was worth it to have them here with me for a little while. I do not think they will ever question again how much I miss them. And despite missing them, I think they have an even greater understanding of why I am here. It is simply for God - for His sake. I am here with God for now, as long as He desires. For His good purposes. And enjoying it!

Thanks for your patience as I posted these older stories. More recent posts to follow. ;)

Know that I'm missing you.

R&R at the Mara

2010-02-11T06:12:00.000-08:00

This guy expressed how we felt once we hit the Mara. Ahhh...so nice...

Our place was spectacular! Phil did an awesome job booking it. We went with a christian company that we highly recommend called ACTS (African Christian Tours and Safari.)

So we kicked back out feet, relaxed, and enjoyed the view for a few days.

More photos on their way...

Warming them up...

2010-02-10T05:46:00.000-08:00

Everyone was excited about going on a safari in Kenya, but we thought they could use a buffer between the States and the Wild so we took them on a little nature walk in Nairobi.

Apparently, they were more prepared for the wild than we thought because before we knew it, they were petting the cheetahs and loving it. Crazy ladies!!

We really did have so much fun! More to follow...

Happy Birthday, Dad!!

2010-02-08T05:21:00.000-08:00

My Dad and I share a birthday. We also share a bit in personality. Just for the record...he did it first. This is us at the Giraffe Park in Kenya when they were in Africa with us. Fun times!!

I love you, Dad!

Engaged!!

2010-01-04T06:16:00.001-08:00

Paris. Eiffel Tower. The man of my dreams.

Does it really get any better than that?

Not in my storybook.

It was perfect!

Thank you, my love!!!

In the meantime...

2009-12-04T06:00:00.000-08:00

While you're waiting for more photos of the family visit, I want to show you this great video/sermon. It was filmed here with our SP Uganda team just two weeks ago. It shows the work God is doing in Uganda through Samaritan's Purse. Enjoy!

http://www.elevationchurch.org/sermons

our Loved Ones came

2009-11-29T03:55:00.000-08:00

Where to begin?

Thank you, Lord - for bringing our families together - in Africa.

This long pause is finally broken. I have so much to tell you. I'll need to do this in segments, so please bare with me.

Earlier this month, Phil and I were blessed with a visit from our parents. Three sets. None of whom had been to Africa. Mine never having been across the Atlantic. Exciting to say the least. We are still amazed and grateful that everyone was willing and able to come - at the same time. This could only be God.

So here we are...outside of Phil's office in Nairobi on a warm, sunny day. An answer to so many prayers.

(Phil and I, Buzz and Linda, LaNea and Steve, Lynne and Tim)

Everyone arrived safely. Bags intact - all 20 of them - seriously. Though we were happiest just having them "with us", they came bearing gifts. They blessed us and almost the entirety of Kenya and Uganda - such generous hearts. Thanks again!!

Here's a picture of us SO happy to see LaNea and Steve at the airport. I love the smile on Phil's face, hugging his dad. There are a few of the many bags in the background. :)

Here's a picture of my mom and I at the airport - again - SO happy to see each other.

Fortunately there was space enough for everyone to stay together at Phil's apartment in Nairobi. So, our first morning together, we were able to stay "home" and make breakfast together. It was fun and gave everyone some time to ease their way into it all.

So this was our happy beginning. I know it doesn't really look like everyone's in Africa yet, but soon. We did ease them in, you know. Though they didn't really need it. I'll be posting more details and pictures in the days to come. And just maybe, Phil will be posting pictures as well. ;)

God desires to be with you.

2009-11-05T05:50:00.000-08:00

"Come now, my love. My lovely one, come.

For you, the winter has passed, the snows are over and gone, the flowers appear in the land, the season of joyful songs has come. The cooing of the turtledove is heard in our land.

Come now, my love. My beloved, come.

Let me see your face. And let me hear your voice, for your voice is sweet and your face is beautiful.

Come now, my love, my lovely one, come."

Song 2:10-14 NJB

Fallen

2009-10-27T09:10:00.000-07:00

Today I saw a pair of 1 dollar sandals stolen from a dying man's feet.

I saw people vandalizing a wrecked lorry without regard to the dying man laying in the grass within their view.

I saw people taking pictures of his wounded head with their cell phones instead of calling for help.

I saw a lathargic group of health workers try to avoid treating him.

Today I caressed the hand and arm of a suffering man - praying that he was saved - praying that he would die - so that his suffering could cease.

I am reminded that we live in a fallen world.

I hope with all my heart that this man is in Heaven with our Saviour tonight.

Cooking with Jane: Premier

2009-10-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

When I first arrived in Uganda I wondered, "Why do they pick their bananas when they're still so green? And how come I can't find huge 'yellow' bananas on the market like that? Where do they all go?"

Yeah, they were plantains.

So Jane is teaching me how to make matoke (aka banana mush) these days. Actually it's made from plantains. You can't peel them with your fingers like our sweet yellow bananas. You must peel them like a potato with a knife. (They actually taste more like a potato too.) It's fun peeling with Jane. She's a great teacher!

So after you peal, you simply boil till soft and then mush. Just like mashed potatoes, but a bit more rubbery and no additives needed.

I do enjoy matoke - even prefer it to rice. But only at our teamhouse. No one else makes it as good as Jane.

The beginning of Moses' story

2009-10-21T06:18:00.000-07:00

Moses is a very special child in Buremba. He has no blood-relatives here, but he is more famous than any other child. He was brought to Buremba with his mother when he was still a nursing baby.

Community members from Buremba found Moses' mom laying helplessly along the dirt road that led to their village. They say that she was obviously very ill - both physically and mentally. She had Moses in her arms, so they picked both of them up and took them to the local health clinic.

Moses' mom wasn't in the clinic for 24 hours when she died. Moses was still attached to her breast feeding when they found that she had stopped breathing. She obviously loved her precious son until her last breath - making sure she cared for him until the last moment of their lives together.

No one can say exactly why Moses' mom died, nor what caused her health issues because no one knew her. They can't even tell me her name. She was not from Buremba. They just found her and Moses and tried to help them before she died. It was a blessed act of kindness - particularly for Moses.

The clinic advertised in the community when Moses was orphaned. They asked that someone come and care for him, despite his lack of relatives. Unfortunately, he was already malnourished and sickly. It was unlikely that anyone would take him in such a condition (the community explained this to me.) However, Mary saw Moses and desired to care for him. With Mary's care and the help of the community, Moses became a healthy little boy within a couple years. And today he is absolutely vibrant!

So that's the beginning of his story. God miraculously saved Moses' life.

Please continue to pray for him and his caretaker, Mary. That God would re-light that mother's love into her heart - that she would properly care for this precious boy - that even now, Moses would be growing into a strong man of God.

I will be posting more on Moses in the coming weeks...

Richard - my Rich man

2009-10-20T05:15:00.000-07:00

I attended a local government meeting regarding water and sanitation, today. I met a lot of new people. Here's one of my more entertaining conversations.

"Have I met you? Who are you?"

"No. I'm Melanie. I work for Samaritan's Purse."

"I'm Richard. You're very lucky to have met me. I am from Kahunge. Do you know Kahuge?"

"Somehow. I have been to that place, but I do not know your people there."

"You really are a very lucky woman to have met me. I am the richest man in Kahunge. You have just met a very rich man!! Aren't you happy?"

"Yes, of course." (I hold back an eye roll. I think.)

"Yes. I am so rich. I will tell you my forture. I own 4 goats! They all belong to me. I take care of them all myself."

Then I laughed along with others who were listening to our conversation. I realized I found a comedian. We live in the land of cattle. Many of these people are "rich" by village standards - because of their many cattle. But goats (though valuable) do not make people rich here. It just makes for a good laugh. Thanks, Richard.

Prayer

2009-10-18T10:03:00.000-07:00

(Children praying after our Hygiene Fair this week - precious)

I love praying with my team. We pray every morning together, before and after our devotions. We pray for our project, our community, other projects and offices all over the world. We even pray for you. And we especially enjoy praying for one another. It binds us together. God binds us together.

"In Him we are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit." Ephesians 2:22

I feel God's presence dwelling with us here in Buremba. I know that His hand is all over this project. And I know it is a response to our prayers - all of ours - yours included. Thank you so much for praying with us. Thank you for being so near in heart.

"In Christ Jesus you who were far away have been brough near, through the blood of Christ." Ephesians 2:13

It's really amazing that any of us can have a relationship with God. It is only Christ who has brought us near to God. And it is only Christ that brings you near to me.

I wish I could be praying under the same roof as you today, but I am comforted knowing that someday, we will all be together again. Someday, there will be no more goodbyes. For those of us who know Jesus as our Saviour.

Please, spend time with Jesus today. Talk to Him. Pray. He's anxious to be with you. He loves you so much.

Amos and Justine

2009-10-17T06:00:00.000-07:00

(Amos teaching children about good health and hygiene, two days ago)

Please pray for my friends Amos and Justine. For the past six months, we've been rejoicing about Justine's pregnancy. When I visited her last week, I commented on how healthy she seemed. So active and glowing. Justine went into the hospital yesterday to deliver their baby boy. Sadly, their little boy died the same day. The reason is still unknown. This is the third child that they've lost in their three years of marriage. Amos and Justine are heartbroken. Please pray.

More on bugs...

2009-10-16T05:15:00.000-07:00

It is indeed the rainy season as I've said before. This means that I have extra rats and bugs at my house/office in the village. Above are some pictures of my new friends. They are the most annoying friends I think I've ever had. That's why we decided to roast some of them for a little snack. You can see Jane preparing our termites for a crunchy delicacy above. Unfortunately, we weren't able to eat them all. The guy on the middle right is poisonous would scream every time I tried to remove him from my mosquito net. Seriously - he screamed. It was weird. (And I should correct myself, it was William who was removing him from my mosquito net.) That moth in the upper right was so big that I thought he was a small bat flying around in my office.

I must say, it is nice having other ladies around. Jane and Juliet (both pictured above) don't like these bugs either. We've had some fun jumping, screaming, and cooking them together. Maybe God is using these bugs to develop some closer friendships ... I'd like to think there's some good reason for them...

'Bans don't cut abortion rates'

2009-10-14T03:18:00.000-07:00

This is an interesting article. It doesn't come from a Christian source, nor does it use the bible for its foundation. Therefore, please do not take this and run too far with it. However, I like the author's view of women's freedom. It's not about giving women freedom to chose to have an abortion. It's about a woman's freedom to chose to become pregnant or not - before conception. Particularly in developing or less-developed countries I think this is crucial.

I admit, I am not giving this blog post enough time. But regardless, it's food for thought.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/health/8305217.stm

But to be clear - I do support bans against abortion.

No accident, no problem

2009-10-13T03:13:00.000-07:00

"Hey William - can you come check this thing out? It looks like a spider nest or something. But there's no web. But I think I see a big spider growing in there. Seriously Big."

"Oh Melan, it's no problem. If there's an accident, you die. But no accident, no problem."

"Kill it, William - seriously!!"

"Haha. No problem, Melan."

Spider dies.

Melan sleeps.

Life is good.

Planting seeds

2009-10-12T00:00:00.000-07:00

(Church in Oru Tabo)

This weekend our Household Water Team was invited to preach and show the Jesus film in two of our communities where they had been constructing water filters, sharing bible stories and praying.

Over the past three days, we shared the Jesus film with more than 500 community members. On Friday, they showed the film and spent all night praying with the village of Oru Tabo. On Saturday they remained in this village to continue sharing with them and on Sunday they shared the Jesus film with more than 300 men, women, and children from a neighboring village named Omun Tebe.

Many of our men shared with me this morning about the amazing work God was doing. They spoke of healings and new committments to Jesus. One man said, "The people of Oru Tabo couldn't believe that our organization would bring this message to them. But I responded, it isn't our organization that brings this message - it is God."

"It is as if they know the Bible, but they have never understood it. This message was new to them. Salvation through Christ - not through works."

Please pray that God would grow the seeds that have been planted. Pray that many will place their faith in Christ for their salvation - not in their works. And please pray that God would receive all the praise and glory for the great work that's being done - physically and spiritually.

Shallow wells and public health

2009-10-10T12:28:00.000-07:00

"During the dry seaon, our old water source would dry up or any water remaining was extremely muddy. We would have to walk as many as 2 hours (one-way) to find another source that could be boiled for drinking. But now, this well is so deep! It supplies us drinking water - even during the dry season. And it only takes 5 minutes to walk there" Wilson says.

Wilson and his family (pictured on left) live in a community we serve. They have worked very hard to dig and construct a new shallow well for their village. We came along side them and provided the technical expertise and a few expensive materials that were needed to complete their work. Since this well has been functioning, many community members say that their families are experiencing less (if any) sickness.

In addition to having a clean water source, they have been taught how to keep their families healthy by storing their water safely and practicing good hygiene. Gadson (pictured bottom right) is one of our Public Health Educators who works hard to improve the health of our community members through education and demonstrations.

Next week, Gadson and I will be visiting a nearby village that has been suffering from a recent Cholera outbreak. (Cholera is a preventable disease (acute diarrhea) resulting from poor sanitation. It is rapidly fatal - infected persons can die within hours.) Gadson will be training trainers how to properly educate this community about good hygiene and sanitation practices - in order to prevent any further cases. Please pray that the Cholera is controlled, and that those identified cases will be successfully treated.

Heaven

2009-10-09T00:18:00.000-07:00

"Now the dwelling of God is with men, and He will live with them. They will be his people, and God himself will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away. God, who is seated on the throne, says to us "I am making all things new!" Revelation 21:3-5

Steve Murphy has gone to Heaven to live with His beloved Saviour.

Please pray for His family, as they will be dearly missing him here on earth.

www.prayforian.blogspot.com

Thank you.

Happy Sunday

2009-10-04T02:03:00.000-07:00

"Praise the Lord, oh my soul. I will praise the Lord as long as I live. I will sing praises to my God - even with my dying breath.

He is the one who made heaven and earth - the sea and everything in it. He is the one who keeps every promise forever. He gives justice to the oppressed and sets the prisoner free.

Praise the Lord, oh my soul. I will praise the Lord as long as I live. I will sing praises to my God - even with my dying breath.

He is the one who feeds the hungry - opens the eyes of the blind. He lifts up the burdens of those beneath heavy loads. The stranger He protects and the righteous one he loves.

Praise the Lord, oh my soul. I will praise the Lord as long as I live. I will sing praises to my God - even with my dying breath.

The Lord will reign forever! Our God is king to all generations. The Lord will reign forever - our God.

We will praise the Lord - oh my soul. We will praise the Lord as long as we live. We will sing praises to our God - even with our dying breath."

A great reminder of who our God is ... praising Him with you! Happy Sunday!

Oh the joys of Kampala...

2009-10-03T01:42:00.000-07:00

My pick-up truck is beautiful again (after her accident) and ready for me to take out to the field. So, I had to come back to Kampala to pick her up. While I'm here, it's great to be enjoying some of the finer things of life...

Friends at the house (Lily and Ryan - they're both new and I love them already!)
Speaking "American" English (and having people understand me)
Bowls of cereal
Hot falling-water showers
Clean bedroom, clean bathroom, clean kitchen, clean dishes ....
Washing machine
Pleasant streets for jogging
Flowers
Supermarkets
Fridgerators
Salads

And I've only been here for 12 hours. Ahhh...it's just so wonderful....thank you, Lord!

Rainy Season

2009-10-02T13:50:00.000-07:00

(Bihanga rains - one brave and strong little girl)

This poor little girl got stuck in the rain yesterday. Man, she's a trooper! Those yellow jerrycans of water are seriously heavy (25 lbs/ea maybe) and this rain was coming down like something fierce. I wish I could have invited her in for some hot cocoa...

So it's rainy season again in Uganda. We get two rainy seasons a year in the West - an amazing blessing. That is why we can grow a ridiculous amount of bananas, and why we eat matoke (plaintain mush) for every meal. It rains for about 30 minutes to 1 hour a day, maybe three or four times a week. In between rains, are blue skies. This is so different from Liberia where it would rain for days - even weeks on end - without even a speck of blue on the horizon.

These rains are so important for our people right now. If it is a good season, then a good harvest can be expected and water sources should be more plentiful. If it is a bad season, then "people will suffer." Living here makes me very aware of the importance of rain to ensure a healthy livelihood - specifically for our team and little Moses.

Feel free to pray with us for the rain. Trusting that God will provide exactly the amount that He knows we need...

Cotton tail for dinner

2009-10-01T11:44:00.000-07:00

As we were driving home, we were having a serious conversation about being thankful to God for keeping the cockroaches out of our noses and spiders out of our ears. And then all of a sudden, Julius starts swerving the Landcruiser pickup all over the road chanting "meat, meat, meat!" I started screaming "no, no, noooo!" We felt a little thump and quickly shifted into reverse to either find a big rock, or our dinner. It was dinner, and I was sad. We just hit an innocent little rabbit. Julius jumps out of the truck to throw him in the bed. We raced home, and the guys fried up our little cotton tail. I have to admit, he did taste pretty good.

A couple great buys

2009-09-30T11:03:00.000-07:00

Today we had lots of fun shopping at the outdoor market in Buremba. It has been getting cold here in the evenings (~ 60 degrees) and all Moses ever wears is a t-shirt. So, we went to get him some pants (or "trousers".) I was able to buy these fun cargos and his new sandals for a total of 4,000 UGS ~ $2.00. He looks like such a little man now!! And he was so pleased with himself. Isn't he seriously the cutest guy? Sure, we have to work on the runny nose, but baby steps ... we are in Africa you know. :)

So after shopping we came back to the office and I had to work. Moses wanted to work too, so he asks for a pen. (He has a piece of paper in his hand.) "What do you want the pen for, Moses?" ... "I want to write" ... "What are you going to write?" ... "I want to write to God." Pretty good response, I thought. So I gave him the pen and let him scribble like crazy for a little while. Fun times in the village...

More on Moses

2009-09-29T11:01:00.000-07:00

"Agandi, Mary. How are you today?"

"I'm good, Melanie. How are you? How is life? How is this place?"

"It's good. But Mary, you know, Moses - he is still sick. He has had cough for more than 1 month."

"Bombay. I know. I have tablets."

"Where are they, Mary?" *She looks for about 2 minutes before she finds them.* "Have you been giving them to Moses?"

"Not yet."

*I look at them closer and am somewhat relieved. They look like aspirine.*

"Mary, you know, Moses. He is sick everytime I am here. We need to find out why. I'd like you to take him for a TB test at the government clinic - just to be sure. It is free. "

"You take him , Melanie. It's okay."

"No, Mary. Moses is yours. You must take him. Will you take him today, please?"

"But I am so tired. I was at a party this morning. I am just too tired. You take him. He loves you so much."

"No, Mary. You must take him. Tomorrow - will you take him tomorrow?"

"Yes. I will. I will do each and every thing. But tomorrow. I am too tired today."

Mary didn't take Moses for his free TB test. And she refuses to buy him medication because of money. However, Mary is one of the smartest (nicest looking) women in the village.

I want to help Moses, but I must be careful. The more I do for Moses, the less responsibility Mary takes for him. If I am not careful he will be worse-off after I leave then when I arrived. My goal right now is to get him healthy and involve Mary as much as possible along the way. Please pray that our Lord would heal Moses' body, and soften Mary's heart to love him deeply - with a genuine mother's love. Pray that I would be given wisdom as I care for him. I'm open to advice.

Photos for you

2009-09-26T10:14:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I hopped over to Kenya to visit my wonderful boyfriend. That's us at the park. :) We had a great time, though still lamenting over the fact that the Steelers and the Seahwawks lost. We didn't get to watch the games on television, but we did get to watch the scores tick by on the internet - almost just as much fun.

So when I got to Kenya, Phil gave me a gift that I think we are all going to love ... a new camera! It is absolutely fantastic. So you can thank Phil for the following photo spread....enjoy....

One of our community water sources - so sad - this is why we have a water filtration project here.

These are the biosand water filters that we help the community members construct. When used and maintained properly, they filter out 99% of the germs and bacteria from contaminated water sources like the one you see above.

This is my awesome team from Kagaramira! From left to right they are - Herbert, Apolo, Stephen, Basil, and in front Boaz. They work with the community, teaching them how to construct, use, and properly maintain their water filters.

And this is one of my Village Health Team members from Oru Tabo. He is a volunteer who has been taught about good health and hygiene. He now teaches his neighbors what he learned and encourages them to make simple changes to their lifestyles (like washing their hands, fencing their animals, and using a latrine) that will improve their family's health.

This is a precious little boy from Kagaramira that stole my heart. Now you can enjoy him and pray for him with me. He has downsyndrome and will struggle to receive proper care.

These are my comedians from Bwizi - community members who are constructing filters for their families.

This is a beautiful mother who built a filter for her family. She glows.

These are my guys from the teamhouse where I live. From left to right - William my protector aka. security guard, Julius my musically-gifted driver, and Mark my super-organized Worksite Supervisor. They all do an awesome job. I'm so blessed to have them on our team.

This is a cute little math message I received on my sidewalk yesterday. Funny sidenote: no one can really say my name over here. They actually think I'm "Meran" and the "ie" part is just to sound cute. Like Tom and Tommy. So "Marneh" up there was their nice attempt to spell Melanie.

Kids in front of a local church hanging out.

My backyard and wonderful "Gen" - Generous. Gen is our cook. She's in the back there, working on the little charcoal stove. She makes some delicious guacamole and chipati. And she's an amazing woman of God.

This is a local butcher. Want to come over for dinner? Gen really is a great cook.

And last but not least a few more members of our team - left to right - Julius my fun driver again, Rachael our Public Health Educator, and August one of our filter specialists - he didn't want me to take his picture.

So here's a bigger glimpse than usual into our project and into life in the village. Thank you for all of your prayers and support as we live this out together. I appreciate you so much.

Salvation for Herbert!

2009-09-25T03:43:00.000-07:00

Humble. Hardworking. Family man. Were my first impressions of Herbert. He was one of my only staff members who brought his family to live with him at his worksite, rather than leave them behind in another village. I was immediately impressed by his love for them. Because of his hardwork ethic, and great attitude (never an ounce of complaint) I promoted him the first chance I got. Everyone on the team celebrated because they knew he deserved it.

Honestly, I would have boasted Herbert as one of our most devoted Christians because he was such a good man. It never crossed my mind that he may not know Jesus.

So just a couple weeks ago we had our ministry conference in Kampala. I was allowed to take 15 of my staff members - but only "payroll." Fortunately, due to Herbert's recent promotion, he was eligible.

In Kampala, our staff were blessed with 2 days of wonderful teaching from a Ugandan pastor. He talked about what it meant to live in the Presence of God. Everyone listened intently everyday and even wished for him to preach longer. At the end of our last night together, our Pastor gave an invitation for anyone who wanted a relationship with Christ to come forth. But no one was to open their eyes. I wanted so badly to see if any of my staff went forward, but I couldn't open my eyes and breach their trust. So I remained anxiously in the dark.

Then we gathered in small groups to pray and encourage each other afterwards.

As I was walking back to my room, my friend Jodi yelled for me. She had tears in her eyes and started telling me about Herbert. She was in his small group and he gently told everyone that he had accepted Christ for the first time. He said, "I have worked for SP for 5 years now, but I never really understood what it was all about -- until tonight."

God opened Herbert's heart to the gospel that night. Herbert is now saved and enjoying a relationship with Jesus - forever! Please pray for him and his family as they begin this journey together. May his wife and children accept Christ, may he be rooted in a strong church, may Godly men come around him in encouragement, and may Herbert continue to love our Lord more and more each day!

This is what it's all about, my friends.

To God be all the Glory!

PS. This was also a good reminder that it doesn't matter how good anyone is. Before Herbert accepted Christ, his salvation was not secure. Also, everyone working for us should be a Christian, but because Christianity is so nominal here, it is often hard to know for sure.

Late for Bowling

2009-09-17T10:22:00.000-07:00

During our ministry retreat in Kampala, we had the opportunity to take our staff out for a night of bowling. Most of my staff had no idea what bowling was, so it was quite the treat. Too much fun, I tell you!! We piled into vehicles (approximately 100 of us) and were headed into town, when we encountered THE jam. "Oh man, we're going to be late for bowling" ... "stupid riot" ... "let's drive through and see what's really going on." ... were our sentiments, which I assure you the latter we did not act upon. We ended up arriving safely at the bowling alley and safely back to our retreat center - even safely back to all of our field sites. We are praising God for his protection and provisions for all of us.

Sadly and more seriously, here are Uganda's latest headlines. Please pray for this nation.

Riots in Uganda In whose interest?
Sep 17th 2009 KAMPALA From The Economist print edition

Museveni, Qaddafi and the mysterious protests

"RIOTS rocked Kampala in support of the king of the Baganda, the country’s largest ethnic group. Shops in the capital were looted, cars burned. Uganda’s president, Yoweri Museveni, who hails from the much smaller Ankole group, ordered police and soldiers onto the streets. At least 24 people were killed in and around the city; most were shot. The government says the rioters themselves had guns. In fact, it seems likely that the armed forces fired into the crowds. The main Bagandan radio station was closed. Some journalists were arrested and charged with sedition.

Events would have spun further out of control had the Bagandan king, or kabaka, Ronald Mutebi, not cancelled a planned trip to the north of the city. Mr Museveni’s aides told the kabaka he would be held responsible for further bloodshed. So he was kept in his palace. Many of his people were enraged by this apparent humiliation.

Buganda is the largest of Uganda’s five ancient kingdoms banned under the presidencies of Milton Obote and Idi Amin but revived by Mr Museveni. The Baganda make up 17% of Ugandans. They are not generally averse to Mr Museveni and his political party, the National Resistance Movement (NRM). A majority of them voted for him in the last election, in 2006. The vice-president and numerous ministers and MPs are Baganda, along with many civil servants doing the NRM’s bidding. So why are Mr Museveni and the Baganda now at loggerheads, especially as the president is seeking re-election in 2011?

Mr Museveni thinks the Baganda have been getting uppity. Though their kingdom is the largest and was once the most powerful, it is now a ghostly fiction, with no sovereignty and little wealth. Mr Museveni is especially weary of persistent Bagandan demands for a return of a swathe of claimed ancestral lands that were long ago distributed to pastoralists or pilfered by officials—and are most unlikely ever to be given back. Besides, generosity to Buganda would aggravate the other kingdoms, particularly neighbouring Bunyoro, whose land includes Uganda’s new-found oilfields.

Mr Museveni may calculate that he can treat the Baganda harshly now, but retain their votes by granting them concessions nearer the election. He has been adept at dividing and conquering the electorate, using carrots and sticks. He dishes out jobs to loyalists but harasses businessmen suspected of helping the fractured opposition. He says he will limit the kabaka’s power and chastises “meddlers” harming Uganda’s prospects.

Mr Museveni’s people say they have identified another villain of the piece: Libya’s president, Muammar Qaddafi, whom they accuse of giving cash to the Baganda. For several years Mr Qaddafi has subsidised Uganda’s kings and their cultural institutions as part of an exotic plan to unify Africa in a web of chiefs and kings. But his latest dollops of cash, say Mr Museveni’s friends, were meant to stir up trouble, because Mr Qaddafi has fallen out with Mr Museveni, despite helping him to win a bush war that brought him to power two decades ago.

Mr Museveni has ridiculed Mr Qaddafi’s swaggering “king of kings” approach, preferring to build up Africa with regional trade blocs such as the East African Community. Still, it is odd that Mr Qaddafi should want to poke Mr Museveni in the eye by funding riots, since the recent oil discoveries in Uganda should make its president more attractive as a friend. Libya, for instance, hopes to tender for a big oil refinery that Mr Museveni wants to build. "

safari photos

2009-09-07T12:57:00.000-07:00

Our beautiful lioness
~photo courtesy of J. Blackham Photography ~

A romantic evening for two
~photo courtesy of Cory the Intern~

Farewell for now...
~photo courtesy of Cory the Intern~

Bush camping

2009-09-06T13:51:00.001-07:00

This weekend I went on a safari camping trip at Murchison Falls with my fellow ex-pats from every corner of Uganda (Kampala, Karamoja, Lira, and Kamwenge.) It was a great adventure for all of us.

We set-up camp on the delta of the Nile river - amidst hippos, elephants, buffalo and lions. No fences or animal deterent systems - except our strategically parked Landcruisers. Our first night, we went on a game drive only 2 kilometers from our camp site and stopped for a herd of more than a dozen elephants. As we were anxiously watching them eat their dinner, we also noticed hippos and crocodiles rolling around in the swamp across the road. And buffalo were starring us down in the distance. It was unbelievable!

That night we slept nervously off and on. We happily awoke at sunrise to no major nightly activities. Our guide talked about a lion's roar in the distance, and having to chase off a herd of buffalo. But we didn't think too much about it.

That afternoon, a few more friends joined us after seeing a pride of 6 lions cross the road as they entered the park. They also saw a lioness relaxing under a shade bush just a few kilometers away. We excitedly jumped in and on the Landcruiser to check her out. Yep - "on" - meaning we were sitting on top of the SUV holding on for dear life (quite literally, once we saw the lioness.) She was in the exact location that our friends described and she was gorgeous. I admit, I was scared out of my mind sitting on top of the landcruiser when she stood up to walk around us to find a new, more private bush to relax in. Not sure what we were thinking sitting up there. But it was definitely an adrenaline rush.

After seeing our cat, we were all excited and content. We ate a great dinner around our campfire and enjoyed each other's company late into the evening. None of us get a lot of social time out in the field since we all work in separate locations, so this was really precious. We went to bed expecting that the biggest adventures were over.

Then at 4am, one our friends Brian wakes us to some loud noises at our camp. It was a couple elephants! And one had just stepped on one of our chairs. But more importantly, they were crazy close to our tents and could easily trample any of us. Fortunately, the elephants decided to get back on an easier track - the road - and therefore, left our campsite. But we woke up to a broken chair, huge muddy foots prints on our mats, and a great story to tell.

I'll get you guys some pictures soon...sorry for the lack of visuals. But I'm sure your imaginations can conjure up a pretty accurate image of what we saw. A few more highlights to end with:

Great MPI (mountain pie iron) egg sandwiches
Running giraffes
Hippos visiting our campsite
The massive and turbulent falls

It was an awesome trip, and great fellowship. I can't wait to take all of you, someday - some sooner than others...can't wait to see you in November! We're going to have a GREAT time!!

You just give

2009-09-01T10:34:00.000-07:00

(a cute old mosai)

We were deep in the banana forest, constructing our new worksite. Laying cement between the eucalyptus poles. Beads of sweat running down the faces of Dativah and Innocent.

"Nice work, Dativ and Inno!", I yelled with a smile. "Tu gende..." (Let's go...)

They smiled back, we packed up and loaded ourselves into the Pajero for the ride home.

As I was trying to crawl up into our big car, an old Mosai (old man) was trying to ask me something. It seemed as if he wanted money. He would tug at my shirt - tilt his head - hold out his hands and say, "Muzungu" (white woman). His breath smelled of alcohol, so I was a bit nervous. I was compassionate only so far as to not close his arms in the door.

Then, Akankwasa reached into his pocket, pulled out 200 shillings (10 cents) and said "roll down your window." He gave the bit of money to the old Mosai, with a big shiny smile.

"How do you know who to give to Akankwasa?" I said. "I mean..."

He interrupted and said, "You just give, manager (melanie)."

"I tell you the truth, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers of mine, you did for me and whatever you did not do for them, you did not do for me" Jesus said.
Matthew 25:31-46

"Several ways to make yourself miserable" ... Way #8 ... "don't fall into any compassion traps - the sort of situation where people can walk all over you. If you get too involved in other people's troubles, you may neglect your own."
- Elizabeth Elliot

God, give us hearts for the poor and needy. Give us compassion. Enable us to give of ourselves. For your sake. For your pleasure. For your glory.

I learned a simple lesson from Akankwasa. It can be simple.

Get out!

2009-08-26T02:24:00.000-07:00

"We're not saying another word..." - Mel and Cory

It seems like every time we make one of those "I could handle this, but not that" comments, THAT happens. For example...

"I can handle mice in my house, just not rats." - Mel

We have rats, not mice. (They're growing big and hairy.)

"I can handle a mouse in my room, just not ON me." - Mel

I woke up to a rat in bed with me on Thursday night. Seriously.

"I can handle a rat in my room, just not a snake." - Cory

Cory woke up to a snake in his room last night. He killed it like a champ, but we're both still scarred.

What's up with this crazy zoo we're livin in? God, help us!

Cory and I are learning a new meaning and application to ... only by God's grace...

(We're laughing....but still very serious.)

Please Pray for Steve Murphy and his family

2009-08-21T23:25:00.000-07:00

Good morning, friends.

Will you please pray for Steve Murphy and his family: http://www.prayforian.com/. Steve was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor yesterday. He has a large, wonderful family in Indiana, PA of whom his oldest son's name is Ian. You may have prayed for Ian before. He was in an accident three years ago where God miraculously spared his life. Ian was comatozed for many months and is still recovering. Please continue to pray for his complete healing as well.

This family knows and deeply loves our Lord. They have been walking bravely through hardships and sufferings for many years already - glorifying and praising God each step of the way. I don't know their needs intimately right now, but I do know that they need God. Please pray for them as God leads you. His wife's name is Mary and children's names are Ian and Larissa, Ben and Jan, Caleb, Devon, and Lydia. Today is Devon's birthday.

An encouragement from Steve as you pray...

(Steve wrote this after Ian's accident - I inserted Steve's name beside Ian's)

He Is So Good
He went on from there and entered their synagogue. And a man was there with a withered hand. And they asked him, "Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?"--so that they might accuse him. He said to them, "Which one of you who has a sheep, if it falls into a pit on the Sabbath, will not take hold of it and lift it out? Of how much more value is a man than a sheep! So it is lawful to do good on the Sabbath." Then he said to the man, "Stretch out your hand." And the man stretched it out, and it was restored, healthy like the other. (Matthew 9:9-13)

I read this passage in my devotions the other day and was greatly encouraged by it. What struck me most was how eager Jesus was to do good to the man with the withered hand. The Pharisees were slaves to their own laws. All they cared about was obedience to their man-made laws regarding the Sabbath. They could have cared less about the man with the withered hand. But not so with Jesus. Oh how deeply he loved the man with the shriveled hand. How disgusting that hand must have looked! A shriveled and shrunken hand that probably had not been used in years would not have been a pretty sight. But He valued the man with the withered hand and longed to do good to Him. Jesus is absolutely bursting with goodness. Like a ripe orange that is simply bursting with juice, so the Savior is full of goodness. He longs to do good to His people.

Jesus greatly values (Steve) Ian Murphy as well. Not because of anything good or meritorious that (Steve) Ian has done, but because of the cross. (Steve) Ian is saved and is therefore covered in the precious, valuable blood of Jesus. God delights in (Steve) Ian and longs to do good to him because (Steve) Ian is washed in the blood of Jesus. Let this encourage us to pray boldly! Jesus is longing to do good to (Steve) Ian. He is longing to bless Him and pour out mercy on Him. Let us appeal to our good and generous Savior to heal and restore (Steve) Ian, full of faith that He longs to do good.

For His glory alone...
-Stephen A

Words from the Wise

2009-08-19T22:06:00.001-07:00

(Jinja scene)

"It is not the level of our spirituality that we can depend on. It is God. And nothing less than God. For the work is God's and the call is God's and everything is summoned by Him and to His purpose, the whole scene, the whole mess, the whole package -- our bravery and cowardice, our love and selfishness, our strengths and our weaknesses."

Elizabeth Elliot

Tidbits of life....

2009-08-19T02:33:00.000-07:00

I'm currently planning our future water projects for the southwest region of Uganda. Next year we will be providing 18,000 more people - mostly children - with access to clean water. They will also get to hear about the Living Water offered through Jesus Christ. Praise the Lord!

I think my new favorite meal in the village is fried cabbage and matoke (plantain mush) with a side of guac and chipati. Quite tastey.

We are getting loads of rain in Buremba right now - making for happy farmers, peaceful evenings, and fast runs to the latrine.

The rains have also brought a beloved mouse problem into our teamhouse. After Liberia, mice don't really bother me. But it's funny to see Cory all up on his chair about it.

Yesterday I saw Generous and Julius (two of my married staff members) reading the bible together. We are going through the story of Joseph in devos and they were talking about it, laughing, and truly enjoying God's word. A precious moment.

I got to talk to my family for an entire hour on Sunday. It was so wonderful!! Thanks guys. :)

And right now I'm enjoying Moses' laugh around the corner. But he just knocked over a baby...so now we're both listening to her cry. Way to go Moses...

Looking forward to a 7 hour ride back to Kampala this weekend...because I don't have to drive and once I get there, I have some hazelnut creamer waiting for me. Thanks mom!

Just another glimpse into life on this side.

Hope you're having a great day!

Boasting damage-free driving

2009-08-13T07:39:00.002-07:00

(Tea fields on our way to Buremba)

We managed an almost-record-time, 6.5 hours, from Kampala to Buremba today. And I was the driver, baby! Sounds like a funny thing to boast about (it is), but I typically have a driver, Julius. However, Julius had wedding things to take care of this weekend, so I hit the road without him. I must say, Ugandan roads are a little .... unpredictable. For those of you who have traveled anywhere outside the States like Mexico, Zambia, Egypt think about your crazy car rides and your funny stories. Yeah, most of you know exactly what I mean by "unpredictable". ;) I don't have any cool stories, except for the fact that we made it damage-free. And that makes me really happy.

So now I'm back in Buremba, safe and sound. I was greeted by beloved Moses and his caretaker Mary as soon as I arrived. A wonderful blessing. I was also happy to see my neighbor Alex. He and his wife just had a baby and asked me to name her. We now have a new Hope in our village. :) Sounds nice, doesn't it.

I really want to thank you all for your many prayers and encouragements. They have meant so much to me. God hears you and responds. He continues to give us grace sufficient for each day.

Have a blessed day!

Comfort

2009-08-11T13:15:00.000-07:00

(Buremba children having some fun)

Tomorrow morning I drive out to the village to be with my team again. I've been in Nairobi and Kampala for the past few days. Buremba seems a world away. But we're on our way...

I had a wonderful, unexpected blessing today. I spent some time with a family visiting from the States. They should have been strangers to me, but instead God truly blessed our time together and made it comfortable. It was so refreshing to sit around and chit chat. I don't think they realized how much they were caring for me by just sharing a bit of their family warmth. It felt like I was close to "home" for a couple hours.

So now it's time to pack my bag again. I have a little checklist in my head these days...headlamp - favorite toilet paper - buff - iPod - SP shirts - good to go!

I'll be honest, it's a bit hard to get excited about going back out. I feel guilty about it sometimes. I know God has me in the village for this time in my life and that He wants me to persevere. I trust His motives and His goodness. But then that desire for comfort creeps in.

Tonight I'm reminded that comfort is a gift. Something that we should praise and thank God for! And something that we should hold with an open hand. Willing to give it up. For His sake.

I'm so thankful for the gift of comfort I had tonight and during my time in Nairobi. God is so kind to us. He is so good at caring for us.

I am also in prayer tonight - that God would help me/us to willingly give up that comfort - so that I/you may serve Him with a joyful heart - no matter how uncomfortable or difficult the circumstances.

More to celebrate!

2009-08-06T11:23:00.000-07:00

(Dana and Sarah)

Aren't my two best friends beautiful? :)

I know that this photo seems a little late. Since Sarah's wedding was about two months ago. But I am in the wedding mood, so it actually fits perfectly. It is the perfect excuse to announce that...

Dana is getting married!

To her lover, Ryan.

Congratulations, Dana and Ryan!!

I love you guys. And I can't wait to be with you again soon.

Oh Happy Days - Enjoy it!!

Come

2009-08-05T10:47:00.001-07:00

(Buremba sunrise)

I am exhausted and craving God's spirit to come be with me tonight. I am back in the village and our team is struggling, spiritually. We are begging for unity that is rooted in God's love. Begging for God to give us depth to our faith. Begging for Christ-like character.

Fortunately....

"I can never escape from your spirit. I can never get away from your presence. If I go up to heaven, you are there; if I make my bed in the depths, you are there.

If I rise on the wings of the dawn, if I settle on the far side of the sea, even there your hand will guide me, your right hand will hold me fast." Psalm 139:7-10

May God's presence - His peace - envelope us all tonight.

Three times

2009-08-01T23:04:00.000-07:00

The poor lady had to wash my hair three times to get all the dust out. In my own defense, it is the dry season here in Uganda. And I swear that I wash my hair in the field. Though I admit, as much as I try to get clean, I know I still have a layer of village dirt on me even after my basin baths. And my hair is no exception.

Friday was a mini-milestone day for me and a little slice of heaven. I travelled back to Kampala and got a professional haircut! It's been over two years since I've had a professional haircut. You see, I taught my best friend Sarah how to cut it - to save money. And I've been using her ever since. But since I won't be seeing Sarah for at least 8 more months, I decided it was time to move on - or I was going to begin looking a little too "bush".

After about 20 minutes of hairwashing and head massaging (oh la la), I sat down for my South African friend to start chopping. We laughed and laughed because my hair was so crooked and crazy. Like a good beautician, she was really happy that I was finally taking proper care of my locks. But honestly, I still miss Sarah's crazy cuts.

Miss you, Sarah!

Negative!

2009-07-13T09:52:00.000-07:00

Praise the Lord!! Moses tested negative for HIV today. Thank you so much for praying.

God is good to have had mercy on Moses. To have spare him from this sickness. In a nation where so many are suffering. In Uganda, we believe more than 10% of the population is infected with HIV. And more than 1 million children have been orphaned.

It's difficult to imagine such a situation. Even living here, it's hard to believe. But in many ways I live it with my Ugandan brothers and sisters. There is so much death here. So much sickness. Every week, one of my staff is down because of "malaria" or is attending a burial. Every week.

I pray that God will keep us sensitive to the things of this world that pain Him - even as they occur so often. May we all develop a holy compassion for the sick, the lost, and the hurting. And may we never stop praising Him for the amazing work that He has done to deliver us all - for eternity.

So tonight we're praising God for his work in Moses' life! And for the redeeming work He completed for us on the cross.

Thank you, Jesus.

Sundays in the village

2009-07-12T09:24:00.002-07:00

Cory and Moses -- especially for Cory's dad ;)

We all slept in. And it felt so good. Then we had a laundry competition. After three packages of OMO (way too much) I had my clothes smelling like roses and my whites were glowing. I declared myself the winner, much to the dismay of Cory.

After washing clothes, I decided to wash Moses. I plopped him down in a basin and scrubbed, scrubbed, scrubbed that dirty little body. He laughed and played and then sat stiff as a board on a chair for five minutes to dry in the sun. I was proud of him. Then he jumped down in the dirt and was filthy from head to toe within 5 minutes.

Tomorrow Moses' HIV test is scheduled for 10am. Cory and I are going to take him and Mary (Moses' caretaker) to a private clinic in the village. We are continuing to pray that he is negative. We should know within minutes. It's similar to a pregnancy test, but using blood on the little strip. Honestly, we are really nervous. Please pray with us.

On a bright note, Moses has been playing all day long with his "shoebox". He was one of the blessed recipients in the village. I taught him how to use his new toothbrush and paste today -- washed him up with his new soap -- and we played with his new phone, motocar, and tops. He loves it all! :)

It's amazing to be staying in the village where we distributed. The children have been more active in the past 24 hrs than I've seen them in the past 4 months. To everyone that has ever put a shoebox together - please know that God does indeed bless the labor of your hands. These children heard of God's love for them yesterday and they continue to experience His love as they play with their toys. God has worked through you to give them so much joy! On behalf of the village, "Thank you so much!!"

Finally, I listened to a sermon on my iPod while Moses took a nap. I don't attend church every Sunday because I don't speak the local language and therefore, find it difficult to be nourished. Trust me, I miss my church family and teaching so much. But for now, God has me here - in the village - on Sundays. Please pray that I will be growing more and more in my love for Him. I am praying this prayer for you too.

the ideal home

2009-07-10T11:22:00.000-07:00

Today I went on a two hour long motorbike ride deep within the countryside to visit one of our Village Health Teams. Gadson is training them about good health and hygiene practices so that they can go and train their respective villages. Today, we talked about their "ideal home". It consisted of a water source, latrine, garden, main home and animal home, dish rack, rubbish pit, and lots of people. It's interesting to compare that to what our response would be, eh.

During our ride back to Buremba, Gad stopped at his home to treat me to some pineapple. It truly is the best in the world! Wow - so sweet. He also shared his uncle's poetry with me. It was a nice break.

Now I'm back to my village home in Buremba. We're preparing for another shoebox distribution that will be held tomorrow. We're praying that it'll be a blessing to our community. That they will understand that it's an expression of God's love to them.

We have the opportunity to bring the Jesus film to our community as well - if we want. I'm praying about this opportunity. Will you please join me? I'm really seeking wisdom as to if and when and for whom...all that jazz.

By the way, the banana bread turned out pretty good yesterday...you should all come over for a little visit and I'll serve you some with tea. :)

And the picture above is one that I took on a journey back to Kampala. If you look closely, you can see the Rwenzori mountains in the background. This countryside truly is beautiful!

God is amazing to have created all of this, right. But as Keith would say, it's a garbage can compared to what God has waiting for us up in Heaven. I mean it only took six days to create all this and He's been working on heaven for over 2000 years. I'm looking forward to Heaven, I tell you!

Please pray for His presence to be with us tomorrow. We don't want to do any of this without Him.

Thank you so much. Know that I care about you and I'm missing you guys.

A typical day

2009-07-09T05:14:00.001-07:00

When I was in the states, I was asked a great question. "Mel, can you tell us about a typical day in your life?" It took about 30 minutes to reply and I felt like I did a bad job, so here's another shot at some details.

Today feels like a typical day, so here we go....

I woke up to dogs fighting in the mid of the night and then to roosters crowing at about 6:30. Then little Moses came around my door singing his version of "This is the Day" at the top of his lungs and yelling my name so that I would come out. :)

I ate some chapati. Checked some emails. We prayed as a team. And then I had a staff member arrive who drove over an hour to get supplies that weren't urgent. I had a nice stern conversation with him about good stewardship of our fuel. I think he understand about 50% of what I said.

I waited for about 2 hours for some staff to arrive so that I could take them to the bank to get their money. I love waiting.

Now I'm in a town called Kamwenge and we got a ton of work accomplished! We purchased supplies for Child Hygiene Fairs and for water filter construction. I paid our transportation guy his millions. Bought some bibles - Baibuli Erikwera - in the local language. And I purchased about two dozen eggs -- mmmm, I can't wait to eat them. :) Now we can have something new for breakfast and I can try to make some banana bread over hot coals tonight. Oh la la!

I'm getting ready for another hour car ride back to Buremba. On our way here I was reading some "Water Stories" from the bible that we want to incorporate into our project. We want to entertain our audience at the workshop with more than water filters. We want to entertain them with stories about Living Water. To remind them that,

"Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water Jesus gives them will never thirst. Indeed, the water Jesus gives will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life" John 4:13-14

Please pray with us that our community will accept the living water offered by Jesus.

So this is a little glimpse into a typical day. The photos above are of our community members constructing filters, being educated about good health and hygiene and drinking some clean water. This stuff also goes on everyday. :)

By the way, we haven't tested Moses for HIV yet. His caregiver is very sick with malaria, so we want to wait until she is well so that she can receive the counseling with Moses. I'll keep you up-to-date on them. Thanks for your prayers.

Know that I'm missing you, my friends! Let me know your prayer requests. I'd love to be praying with you as well.

A little update

2009-07-06T23:57:00.000-07:00

The past two weeks have been packed full of great experiences and challenging ones. Here's a few my praises and a couple prayer requests.

Praise God, our team and community members are working hard constructing filters and installing filters. Together, we have provided clean water for more than 1600 people in Buremba in just a few short months!

God has also been good to give me an intern for the next three months! Cory is back on the HWP team. Everyone enjoys his company and he is doing some really great work for us - helping the team to write good impact stories and helping me to improve our Public Health Education curriculum. He's doing awesome in the field - everyone loves him. He brings a lot of joy to the team!

One of my challenges has been dealing with a very serious moral issue with one of my most valuable staff members. I had to issue a warning letter to him, and we are trying hard to re-build trust. I am concerned about his relationship with Christ. And his influence on our team and within our community. Please pray for him.

Finally a HUGE blessing I have here in Buremba is Moses aka Arsenal. His picture is above. :) I will write you Moses' story in post specifically dedicated to him. However, in the meantime know that he is an orphan-child that I love very much. Moses is often sick - we are concerned about his HIV status. We are getting him tested today. PLEASE pray that he is negative. Please join me in placing his life in our Father's hands today. Our loving, caring, healing Father.

Know that I love you all very much. And I miss you.

May we all be praising God today! And giving our lives to Him.

15,000 miles and back again

2009-06-17T07:00:00.000-07:00

It was wonderful! I went back to the States for my best friend's wedding. She is now Mrs. Sarah Dugan.

The wedding was perfect. Beautiful. Elegant. Traditional. Awesome make-up, Bobbie. Incredible music. Relaxed and a lot of fun! The most amazing part was that my best friend married the love of her life. The man that makes her happier than I've ever seen. And a man that loves the Lord. I'm so happy for you, Mr. and Mrs. Dugan! I miss you, Sarah. Thank you for helping me to come home to see you and to experience one of the happiest days of your life with you. Jonathan - I'm still jealous. :)

I was home for only three days, but in those three days I ate at the beloved Aladdins and then hung out in West Virginia with my Mom, Dad, and Brother Ben and his girlfriend, Courtney. We went to Wal-mart, Cabellas, and some great restaurant that had a goat cheese salade - mmm!

Then I went to the Burgh just in time to watch the Pens win the Stanley Cup...woohooo!!! Pittsburgh is now officially the greatest sport city in the world. :) I watched the last two seconds with Dane-girl and we were so excited that my mom swore there had to be at least ten of us in the room from all the hooting and hollering she heard on the phone.

Then the wedding day. :) Sarah woke up crazy-excited, then got crazy-nervous, and then excited again. It was hilarious! She was perfect!

Then I went to Providence for church and a little pre-sermon Panera Bread. Thank YOU so much, Behrens Family, Q family, Rick and Viv, and all the others who gave a little something for my team here in Uganda. We're already enjoying your gifts!! :) Thanks Kayte Bell for being around - man I miss you. Thanks, Mike for an awesome sermon that refreshed me as I left.

Know that I miss all of you. It was definitely worth the jet-lag to see you for a few days and/or hours.

Photos to follow....another day....sorry.

Do you want to help?

2009-06-01T07:02:00.000-07:00

We have a few very practical needs/wants out here for which we have no budget. I would love to give you the opportunity to contribute. I am coming back to the states in just one more week for a very short time. I'll be at my best friend's wedding on the 13th! And Providence Church on Sunday the 14th. :) If you think you'll see me there and you want to contribute something small, here's our list of needs/wants:

new or lightly-used bibles
small book of guitar cords
laminated copies (20) of praise songs
bible study leader's guide - smaller the better
End of the Spear movie

Spiritual nourishment is our goal. :) We would love your help! If you have any questions, feel free to email me: melanie.scherf@gmail.com.

Webale manonge! (Thank you very much!)

How far would you go?

2009-05-31T10:46:00.000-07:00

I drove 5 hours round trip with my Buremba teamhouse mates for a toasted ham and cheese sandwich today. And it was worth it! Expensive. Wouldn't even put it on my top 5 favorite foods list. Only been in Buremba for one week. But still worth it.

Why?

Because we drove into the Kibale Forest, past the Rwenzori mountains, and through bright green tea fields. We stopped along the road to buy jack fruit, watermelon, some red pepper-looking fruit, and the best pineapple in the world - all for under $3. We looked through my latest Life magazine with the World's Wonders in it and each decided where we most wanted to go. And I flipped through the pages of our Vietnam Lonely Planet to dream about the next big trip.

It was a nice deep breath - a nice day of rest! God is so good. :)

Happy

2009-05-30T22:07:00.000-07:00

I walked into our dining area from my office to find a strange young woman sitting at our coffee table eating some fresh pineapple. I'm not alarmed by strangers in my house/office anymore. But it's still weird. I introduced myself and asked for her name.

"Happy" she replied without hesistating.

I was encouraged. She understood my english. We could have a conversation.

I asked why she was in our dining area and she told me that she wanted to know what we were doing in their community. I ushered her into the office and started to explain the water project. As I was telling her about filters and clean water, I glanced up at our new picture. It's a photo of a beautiful young girl catching rain water in Malawo. It includes our mission statement which is about sharing the love of Christ. I stopped talking about water and started talking about Jesus. I told her we were there to share the love of Jesus Christ.

"Are you saved?" she asked.

"Yes" I replied. "I am a follower of Jesus Christ - I love him very much."

"Well I am not saved" she said bluntly. I was surprised. I didn't even ask. I assumed she would say that she was.

So we started talking about Jesus. She explained that she goes to church, but she isn't saved yet. She says that it just isn't her time. I tried to explain to her why she shouldn't wait. But I felt like I was being too persuasive. I didn't want her to simply accept my point of view. I wanted her to accept Christ. So we continued talking about Jesus and loving Him and living our lives for Him. Eventually she said that she wants to be saved. I told her that she can be saved today. But she wasn't quite ready for that yet. So I simply told her that I hoped to see her again tomorrow.

She was Happy. And I am hopeful!

Please pray for her. That God would do a mighty work in her heart. And that He would give me wisdom and a great love for her.

Some friends from the field

2009-05-28T22:15:00.000-07:00

A couple weekends ago I had some fun with some friends from the field. The four guys in the picture above are Tred (intern), Julius (my driver), Amos (my other driver), and Cory (intern). Tred and Cory were visiting our program for the week so I decided to take them out to a place called Kibale National Forest for a little outdoor fun over the weekend. Julius and Amos came with us because they themselves are a lot of fun. I'm so blessed to have them and their good humor on my team!

Being deep in the forest was the perfect refreshment - it smelled so good and crisp! And it was a wonderful reminder of God's creativity and beautiful mind. Honestly, we didn't see a ton of wildlife, but we did see some red, black/white, and brown monkeys - obviously I don't remember any of their real names - sorry. We also got to hike through some fresh elephant tracks...that's what Cory is pointing to in the bottom middle photo. But unfortunately we didn't run into any elephants on our hike. Next time, right!

After our hike, we ventured out to a visit a nearby crater lake (top left photo.) We searched around a bit and found a little dock to hang out on. We just sat around with our feet dangling in the water telling stories about home, families and travel. It was a great way to end the week.

I can hardly believe another week is coming to an end. I'll tell you more about village life soon. I've been staying in Buremba the past few days and really enjoying it.

For now - may we all take a little time to revel at and enjoy God's creation! He is so amazing!

Take care, my friends.

Feels like home...

2009-05-24T10:45:00.000-07:00

It's amazing how God works.

I've been playing volleyball all weekend. Our team, our league is completely Ugandan except for me. I should feel completely out of place. But at last, I feel like I'm at home. On the court, I feel comfortable. With my team, I'm part of them. It is so wonderful.

Tomorrow I leave for the field again for two weeks. I admit, I'm a bit disappointed that I won't be able to play with the team for a few weeks. But I trust that God wants me to join him in something wonderful in Buremba too. He's good like that.

Volleyball...it's one of those little things...

Thanks Father!

Everyday life

2009-05-21T11:12:00.000-07:00

(Phil and I on the Nile)

So I think it's time for a post about my everyday life. I was settling in with my team in our village called Buremba for the past three weeks. My time in the village was challenging but wonderful. It's my new home now - for at least 50% of my time here (probably 75%.) I love being with our communities - living with them - experiencing life with them. But communication is challenging. And it's hard not to be a workaholic when you live your job. But I think that as the weeks go by, I'll learn where and how to draw the lines.

I am hoping to start a women's bible study in Buremba on Saturday mornings. I'm thinking about serving tea and making banana bread. I have a couple bibles we can share - even some in the local language. I have a list of bible stories that we can read and discuss. I figure we can give it a shot and see where God takes us. If you have any good ideas, let me know. I'd love to hear them.

So you might notice that my posts are a bit sporadic. I'm sorry. It's because I don't always have electricity or internet access in Buremba. We run off of solar power, so when it rains, we don't have power for a day or two. But I love it when it rains because then we have plenty of water! We have serious water scarcity issues in Buremba. Somedays I don't get my bucket bath because there simply is no water to be found in the village. But after it rains, we have water for days! And it's super clean! So I guess it's a trade-off...water/power...power/water....take your pick. :)

Something else I think we're going to try in Buremba is volleyball. Surprise, surprise! :) We don't have enough space at our teamhouse, but there is a nice grassy spot next to a medical clinic across the road. I'm hoping that the community will let us use it for our volleyball court. It would be fun to get some games going and it's a great way to build relationships. More to follow on this...

Speaking of volleyball, I'm back in Kampala now and I just got to play on an awesome club team tonight. A friend from work, Samantha, took me to a place where she plays and I couldn't believe my eyes. These Ugandan women are GOOD! I mean, I was intimidated. I can't believe they're letting me play with them. One of the coaches asked me to join their team, so I am now officially part of a competitive Ugandan volleyball team. I'm so excited! They have trainings throughout the week and games on the weekends. God is really great to keep giving me chances to play volleyball all over the world...crazy, isn't it!

Another crazy thing is that I've finally begun to drive over here. We're talking left side of the road, right side of the car driving. Honestly, that part isn't too bad. It's the boda bodas (passenger motorbikes) and matatus (minibuses) that scare me. They come out of nowhere. And as just about everywhere outside of the western world, it's a disorganized mess on these roads. But I'm taking it "slowly slowly". And I plan to practice my "manual" driving in Buremba, so soon enough I'll be a bit more comfortable behind the wheel again.

Also, Phil came over to Uganda last weekend. Above is a picture from our time together. :) It was fantastic! He's my perfect R&R partner. We enjoyed Lake Victoria, the Nile River, a great coffee shop with a perfect Hazelnut frappuccino, and the best brownie in the whole world. Seriously. Phil's back in Kenya now, but off to the States tomorrow for some meetings. You can pray for his travel and specifically his weekend. I know he'll appreciate it.

I also appreciate your many prayers. Thank you so much for your love and support. God is good to have given me all of you. I am amazed at His outpouring of love through you.

May you also know, feel, and be amazed by our God's love for you today!

Take care, my friends.

Yusufu Rukwago and family

2009-05-19T10:27:00.000-07:00

Our project is well underway and I was recently asked for some stories that will describe the impact that we're having within the communities. The following is a story that an intern, Cory, wrote while working with our team. I think he did a great job, so I wanted to share it with you...enjoy!

(Yusufu and his family are pictured in the top two photos)

Deep in the bright green foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains of western Uganda lies the community of Kyabahuura. Known for its large herds of cattle, Kyabahuura is well-known for its milk, which is said to be easier to find than water itself. One of the downsides of living in such a hilly area, though, is the lack of available clean water.

One such farmer facing this problem was Yusufu Rukwago. A happy father of nine children, this banana farmer struggled to find clean water for his family. He realized the health problems associated with drinking dirty water, but had no other options.

That is why Yusufu was the first in Kyabahuura to sign up for a BioSand Water Filter after hearing about Samaritan’s Purse’s Household Water Program. Knowing the water filter’s importance, Yusufu worked many hot hours alongside the Samaritan’s Purse team to build the filters from local materials. In addition, he spent his free time going round the many fragrant banana farms of Kyabahuura, mobilizing people and sharing with them the importance of the filters to the community’s health. He even challenged the doubting town doctor, proving to him the difference the filters make.

Now, 8 days after installing his filter, Yusufu sits on the cool cement floor of his red brick home describing the difference the filter has made in his family’s life.

“We will prevent sickness in our family!” He says he is very happy Samaritan’s Purse came to Kyabahuura because most people would not be willing to travel so far in the bush to help others. He hopes to work more with Samaritan’s Purse in the future, and is thankful for Samaritan’s Purse’s help in providing his children with healthy water. “Dirty water is now just a dream!”

Update: Shoebox Distribution

2009-05-17T10:50:00.001-07:00

(Click on this collage to see enlarged photos)

Answered prayer, my friends! The shoebox distribution at St Stephen's Church in Kamwenge went fantastic. 300 excited children heard and experienced the gospel. 7 churches of various denominations were united. 4 countries were present and actively participating in sharing Christ's love. And our 1 and only God was praised and glorified!

It was amazing to be working with God on this project. He worked miracle after miracle and engaged more people than I would have ever imagined. Planning the event was challenging, but it caused us all to meet with God in prayer and surrender our plans to Him. I can confidently say that He made it all happen and He made it all good.

The day of the distribution, St Stephen's church was packed full of patient, glowing children. We talked to them about Jesus and told them about God's love for each one of them. We sang some fun songs together - led by our wonderful visitors from the Netherlands. And we explained that there were people all over the world that love them and prepared these boxes for them. We told the children about you and about your hearts. And we explained to them that these shoeboxes are a tangible expression of God's love for them. Then we prayed together and finally....we gave them the shoeboxes and let them loose to have some fun!!

As you can see, the children had a blast! They were smiling, laughing and playing until the moment we left. God was there and we were all enjoying it together!

For all of you who have been involved in packing shoeboxes full of toys, school supplies, and personal care items for children around the world - thank you, thank you, thank you! You are giving more than material gifts. You are sharing the love of Christ with the nations. May we all continue to pray for these children and their families. May we pray that they will know Christ as their Lord and Saviour.

A special thank you to my friends from the Netherlands. You were a true joy and delight in my life last week. You were a gift from God to me. Kamwenge is missing you!

Prayer request: Shoe box distribution

2009-05-02T09:08:00.001-07:00

Tomorrow is a very exciting day! We are distributing 300 shoe boxes to children here in Kamwenge. I know that many of you have been involved with Samaritan's Purse's Operation Christmas Child program - some, for a very long time. I can't wait to show you pictures and tell you about the wonderful impact you're having!

I also wanted to ask for your prayers for this event tomorrow. Will you please pray for the logistics, for the Netherlands Team (donors) who will be attending, for unity between the seven churches involved, and for the children who will receive their gifts tomorrow. Pray for all of our hearts. Pray that God's presence would be palpable in St. Stephen's Church tomorrow. Pray that our Lord will receive all the praise and glory!

God loves your prayers and I appreciate them so much.

A Dieu soit la Gloire!

Homosexuality in Uganda

2009-04-30T10:41:00.000-07:00

Are you ready for this post? I might fire some people up with this one, but here it goes.

I recently had a long, passionate conversation with my Ugandan co-workers about homosexuality. They were locked in a car with me for 5 hours, so they got a lot of my mind on this. I saw them passing a piece of paper around and signing it. Out of curiousity, I asked to see it. It was a petition. Against homosexuality in Uganda. And all my co-workers were signing it.

I felt my temperature rising, but I tried to keep my cool. "What is this guys?" I asked.

They explained to me that homosexuality is illegal in Uganda. You go to jail if convicted and in the villages you can be stoned to death. They want to remove all homosexuals from the country because they fear that they will corrupt the rest of the population to become homosexuals too. Therefore, my Christian co-workers were signing a church-sponsored petition to keep homosexuality illegal.

I told them that I have friends who are homosexuals in the states and they told me that I should end those friendships. I told them that they were being ridiculous and that this is not what Christ would do. We are called to love our brothers and sisters - unconditionally. We all fall short of the glory of God - right. I am no different. We are saved by grace - not works - not sexuality. They didn't budge.

It's sad to me that homosexuals are not accepted into church families here and in many other places throughout the world.

We all need Christ.

A little message

2009-04-29T08:41:00.000-07:00

Because it's difficult for me to hear a good, challenging message over here - I listen to a lot of sermons on my i-Pod. Right now I'm listening to a series called the Journey from Real Life Ministries. This is what I'm hearing that's impacting me...

God doesn't send us places (like Uganda.) We go with
him to places.
Do what you do with the Lord, not for the Lord.

In scripture...

Jesus says, "I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in
me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me - you can do
nothing." John 15:5

May we abide in Him today. Walk with Him. Spend time with Him, today.

He loves you so much!

So what's God teaching you?

Enjoy clean water. Enjoy God's Love!

2009-04-28T04:52:00.000-07:00

I am often asked the question...so what do you do out there anyway? Well here's an idea of what my team is doing and why they're doing it. Check out this link:

http://www.samaritanspurse.org/water/

Uganda isn't featured, but our projects are very similar. My team constructs thousands of biosand water filters for the poorest of the poor in Western Uganda. They also build water tanks, water jars and shallow wells for public places such as schools and health clinics. This link was featured on SP's website because we're all facing rather large budget cuts due to the downturn in the global economy. If you feel that God is asking you to give, I can assure you that your money is being well spent.

We're working hard to bring clean water to our neighbors here in Uganda. Currently, less than 5% of our community has access to clean water. This especially affects the health of the children. Contaminated water carries diseases which are completely preventable, but also prove fatal in poor environments such as ours.

We're working hard to teach them about good health, hygiene and sanitation. For instance, this week we're holding a Children's Hygiene Fair. Playing games like the poop toss and hand washing relays. :) We are also training some of their parents to be on Village Health Teams. These teams will be responsible to train their villages about proper hygiene and sanitation practices. We hope to see families washing their hands, building improved latrines and using their filters to get clean water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. These simple changes can save lives.

Finally, we have a passion to show them God's love and to tell them about Jesus - the eternal life saver. It was so encouraging yesterday to hear my staff asking me for bibles in the local language and discipleship training. They are eager to share Christ within their villages. And I am eager to equip them as best I can.

Our team wants to share this message with everyone, including you:

Enjoy clean water. Enjoy God's love!

As you're enjoying your clean water today, we also want you to remember God's love for you.

Have a blessed day, my friends!

Patty - laundry isn't the same without you

2009-04-27T06:32:00.000-07:00

Today I did my laundry by hand because I'm out in the sticks. I'm staying at this place called the Cape and technically, I could have the staff do it for me. But for some reason I feel bad about that. This is one of those gender things for me. If I were a guy, I don't think I'd hesitate. I would just put a helpless look on my face and ask. But being a woman, I feel like I should avoid being lazy and do it myself. So, I scrubbed away today and it reminded me of a fond memory of Liberia.

(Photos of Patty in Malawo)

When I was in Bopolu, Liberia doing VBS with Patty, we did our laundry by hand one Sunday. First off, we had all too many clothes. Secondly, we scrubbed too hard on the first few items. Thirdly, I think we were wimps. But by the time we got to the bottom of our buckets we were simply swirling, smelling and rinsing because we were so tired. After hanging our things, we took a nap. :)

You would have been so proud of me today, Patty. I had half as many clothes and I scrubbed them all! And I didn't even need a nap, though it's sounding a bit tempting right now. However, I can definitely say that laundry-by-hand isn't as much fun without you. I miss you Patty...this post is dedicated to you!!

Being a Muzungu in Kamwenge

2009-04-26T00:34:00.000-07:00

(A glimpse of life in Kamwenge)

I visit Kaganga Supply Shop to pay our multi-million Ugandan Shilling (UGS) debt. I walk up the dirt path to the dusty shop. I follow a pathway of iron roof sheets that leads to the wooden desk where Mrs. Kaganga sits and will take my money. I quietly stand in line behind a local man from the community and plan to wait until he is finished making his purchase. He turns around with big eyes and says to me, "You better than me, Muzungu* - you go." He ushers me forward with his hand but I refuse with laughter. "No no! You go first. I am no better. I can wait." He finished his purchase and I feel incredibly awkward.

I hand Mrs. Kaganga our last millions and we try to have a pleasant conversation in english as she counts. She understands every 3rd or 4th word I say. We smile a lot and laugh a bit at our poor communication. But she is getting her money and I am getting my receipt, so we're both content. I play with her 4 year old child, Joseph. Tickling him a bit. Laughing with him. Mrs. Kaganga smiles and points to her smallest child - about 6 months old - sitting pantless on the dirt floor behind her. "You can have that one", she says. I laugh nervously. "Mrs. Kaganga, that beautiful boy is yours!" "No no, you take him. Take him with you. You can have him," she says bluntly. I say "no" again with a smile. She smiles as well. I turn and leave. Feeling a tinge of sadness.

Next I go to the market to buy some sweet bananas. I was trying to pay, but I was being clumsy. Dropping all my things. It was taking quite a long time. During all this fumbling, my merchant calls her daughter to come talk to me. Instructing her to say "how are you?" I entertain the small child and say "I am fine. How are you?" She smiles and says "fine." I finally grab the coins I need, read each one and pay the child's mother. I walk away saying "Webele (thank you)". But the mother calls me back and makes her daughter talk to me again. But this time, the child is told to bow to me. I quickly get on my knees as well. Eye to eye, we exchange the same simple words as before. I leave hoping and praying that the young girl understood that she never has to bow to a Muzungu.

I don't what to say about these experiences. I have them everyday in Kamwenge. I just pray that the Lord would guard me from the temptation to take advantage of my skin color.

May our Lord be glorified through these Muzungu bodies.

*Muzungu is the term used to describe a "white person" in Uganda.

Rafting the Nile

2009-04-25T00:11:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I went to the source of the Nile River with some friends from SP, Lori and Mia. The source of the Nile is located in a town called Jinja and there is some great whitewater rafting there. After spending the night in a dorm on the banks of the Nile, we woke up to the sound of rushing water and a view of the river that just makes you sigh and smile. After a couple hours of being lazy, we went over to our outfitters, got all suited up with life jackets and helmets and hit the river. We rafted some crazy class 5 rapids. It was super scary, but SO much fun. I fell out on one of the big class 5s and sucked in some serious river water before my head popped up. But praise God, my friends scooped me up and I'm here to tell you to go do it too!! Above is a picture of our craziest rapid. That's us at the very tippy top on our way down. Good times! :)

For anyone who wants to go, I recommend: Equator Rafts (Price = $75 includes rafting, one night's stay, breakfast, lunch and dinner)

Hope you're all having a little fun too!

Know that I'm missing you, my friends!

Hot Tamale!

2009-04-07T09:00:00.000-07:00

I thought it was just the doxycycline* that was making my skin feel so hot out here. But aparently it is indeed quite toasty! I think this reading is deceiving (125 F), but I also think we exceeded 100 today. Sizzlin!

Don't be fooled. I love the weather over here. It's a dry heat. Especially compared to Liberia - sorry guys. And God is good to adjust your thermostat quickly. I sleep with a blanket at 75 degrees already.

Enjoy Springtime, my friends! Maybe plant some flowers today. :)

*Doxycycline is an anti-malarial regime which does have a side effect of making your skin more sensitive to the sun.

Kiburara Gospel Center and Covenant Mercies

2009-04-05T06:03:00.002-07:00

(Kiburara Gospel Center praising God! )

Today was a very special day! Moses, from Covenant Mercies, came to pick me up and take me to church with him in Kiburara, just 30 minutes away from Kamwenge. His church is home to more than 80 children who have been sponsored by Covenant Mercies (and YOU.) We worshipped God together. I gave a short message of encouragement. Then we worshipped God some more. And Moses baptized a baby. Then we worshipped God some more. And one of my team members, Alfonze, gave the main message. Then we worshipped God some more. Oh it was wonderful!

Alfonze preached a message about experiencing Jesus Christ. He was explaining to us that we could go to church every Sunday and still not experience Jesus. He encouraged everyone to open their hearts to Jesus and allow Him to penetrate their lives. It was a strong, sound message. I am so blessed to have Alfonze on my team to help lead us spiritually!

After church, the congregation gave me the warmest welcome. I think every single person shook my hand with a sweet smile. I felt very comfortable with everyone. A gift from God. This really is a sister church, my SGM friends.

(The children were were having a blast with the camera!)

Funny sidenote - one of the elder men introduced himself and said - you are a beautiful young woman. You are not married? I said no, but then quickly pulled out a picture of Phil from my bible. We both laughed and he kindly got the point. :) Wew - marriage proposal diverted.

Next, I visited Covenant Mercies' office and the health center for the children. It is a beautiful space. Equipped with a fantastic well, spewing out lots of clean water! Well done, my friends.

And then we had lunch at Moses' home and let me tell you, it was seriously the BEST Ugandan food I've had since I arrived! His wife, Sarah, is a phenominal cook. I hope to have her teach me her secrets in weekends to come. She made us matoke (banana mush), rice, chipatti (thick tortillas), beans, goat stew, and chicken stew. I ate all too much, but left very happy!

I hope to visit our church family once a month and to share more of their lives with you. For now, some prayer requests for our sister church in Kiburara are:

For God to provide the resources and funds needed to finish their church building
For God to bring unbelievers into their church - so that they may hear the Gospel
For God to continue his healing work in their congregation - physically and spiritually

They thank you all for your many prayers! They were so excited to hear your greetings - I mean hooting and hollering excited - literally. :)

You have made a very meaningful impact in their lives. God is using you to encourage them and to spur them on in spreading His love throughout their community!

Embraced by God

2009-04-04T09:41:00.001-07:00

I made some new friends in Kamwenge - the children next door. They are super cute and curious about the Muzungu (white woman) who walks by every day. When they see me, they run to the edge of their yard, yell greetings, and wave their little hands with big smiles.

I love it! I smile, greet, and wave back.

Today I wanted to buy a pineapple to give to my friend Moses (from Covenant Mercies) as a gift tomorow. I started asking around town, and they told me to go to the market. I soon realized that I couldn't find the market, so I asked another lady for directions. She said, "follow me, I'll take you." "Wow - so kind", I thought.

Ten strides later she said bluntly, "you buy me my pineapple because I show you."

This expectation frustrated me. So I just turned around and decided to go back pineapple-less. And with a really bad attitude.

I prayed a lot on my walk back. Praying that God would help me to love as He loves - not because we love Him or are even kind to Him - but unconditionally.

So I approached my place and could hear the kids laughing and playing. Already, they had made me smile. But this time, they did more than greet me and wave - they ran up to me one by one, arms open wide and gave me a bunch of great big hugs! I was shocked and immediately filled with so much love for those children.

God was answering my prayer with those hugs - He was helping me to love Uganda - and He was showing His love to me - unconditionally. I was embraced by God today!

May He continue to help us love Him and his children more...may He place unconditional love in our hearts...and may we share it with those who need it most.

PS. Sorry for the lack of photos...my internet connection isn't quite strong enough to download them right now.

Field Survival Tips

2009-04-02T06:51:00.000-07:00

These tips come from my personal experiences in Uganda...enjoy!

Do NOT take Larium - and if you are - stop now! Doxy is a thrify alternative coupled with sunscreen. Or splurg on the Malarone. Just trust me here.
Cinnamon and honey in your tea are a great anti-histamine.
If your vehicle gets stuck in the mudd, use your snow-driving experience to get unstuck.
African shortcuts = American scenic routes, aka. the LONG way
Railroad tracks are never meant for minibuses
1 African kilometer = 2 American miles or more

It's been a fun week so far. I'm thankful to be healthy and still smiling - thank you Lord!

Long day

2009-03-31T21:20:00.002-07:00

(another photo of the village where our teamhouse sits)

"At least it'll make a good blog post, Mel" Phil said to cheer me up. :)

Monday was quite a long day. I was travelling to Kamwenge. It was to be a 5 hour trip. Usually quite beautiful, but not this time.

I had a brand new driver, George - this was his first day of work. We got directions and he drove the Pajero (small SUV) back from the garage where it was getting fixed. They took it for a test run to make sure it wasn't a lemon and we hit the road, optimistically - already two hours behind schedule.

Two hours into our trip we lost power. All I know is that it wouldn't accelerate anymore. I had one bar of cell network, so we made some phone calls and told our team in Kampala what was happening. Praise God we could communicate!

So we turned the car around and tried to head back, but with little luck. The Pajero stopped again just 5 miles down the road and this time we were really stuck and I didn't have cell phone service. Time for decision-making, Mel. So after hesitantly parking the car at the local police station (not really safe in Africa), I hopped in a taxi (aka. Mini Bus) back to Kampala.

About an hour later I got cell phone service and was told to get out of the taxi because our mechanic, Felix, was on his way to fix the Pajero. So I yelled at the driver to stop the bus, jumped out, throwing money and immediately saw Felix driving past. Only God could have orchestrated this timing! I flagged him down and hopped in his landcruiser and we drove an hour back to the Pajero.

It was getting a bit late, but I really wanted to get to Kamwenge, so they offered to take me in the Landcruiser - promising only two hours - which would get me there before dark - and I said let's go! Not driving at night is important in Africa for security reasons.

So three hours goes by, it was dark and we're driving super slow on this dirt road that seemed to be going to nowhere. I was sceptically wondering if I was ever going to make it to Kamwenge. I was all tense, super hungry, and getting tired. Bad combination.

Praise God, Phil called just as I was just about to break. He made me smile and laugh and assured me that everything was just going to be okay. And he was right! We arrived in Kamwenge at about 9pm - only 6 hours later than expected. It was a long day, but it ended well - my friend Stephen even had food waiting for me. Now I'm in Kamwenge and working with my team again. Tuesday was a good day - Praise God!

Oh these beloved rides to work - they make for interesting blog entries at least. And I didn't even include the huge snake part....let's just say I tried to get George to kill it, but we missed.

Answered Prayer: Home sweet Homes!

2009-03-27T21:47:00.000-07:00

Just to explain to you a bit more of my life in Uganda, I will be living in two places while I'm here. 50% of my time will be in the capital city Kampala, and 50% in rural Kamwenge. Here are a couple photos of my new homes.

(Kampala: we are the first cozy apartment on the left - it's a very comfortable place)

In Kampala, I live in a pleasant suburbian community. I can take a nice jog, treat myself to ice cream and then meander to the coffee shop around the corner. I currently share this place with my Sudanese friend, Lagu and our American finance lady, Lori. It's also the SP guest so we have visitors coming through on a regular basis.

(Kamwenge: we have the office on the right, with a set of 12 rooms in the back)

In Kamwenge, we are renting this hotel from Justice, a widow in the community. It is a blessing to be able to support her. It will be used as our office space and our home. There are 12 rooms in the back so I will always have lots of company. However, digging a new latrine is going to be one of our first orders of business because let's just say the old one is all filled up. Oh the joys of living in Africa!

Water source

2009-03-27T21:10:00.000-07:00

This is the photo of one of the water sources I described in my previous post. You can see the community - along with their cattle and goats - gathering water from the lake. It is a dangerously unhealthy scene. Though at the same time you get a glimpse of beautiful Uganda. The bright blue skies and lush green fields. It breaks your heart and makes you fall in love all at the same time.

I will be travelling back to Kamwenge on Monday for about 10 days to be with my team. Please continue to pray for us - that we would have wisdom and demostrate love as we partner with villages and local churches in Kamwenge.

I am so grateful for you!

Back to work!

2009-03-20T06:39:00.000-07:00

I made it to Uganda this week after having a great time with Phil in Kenya. Phil and I were able to get out of the city for the weekend and visit Hell's Gate. We biked through the national park and hiked through the slippery wet gorge. It was so much fun seeing all of the zebras and camping with the hippos! Here's a few photos of our trip...to see some more, visit Phil's blog...he's a great photographer. :)

(Phil and I at the top of the gorge - it was beautiful - but you'll have to trust me)

(Caution: Zebra crossing!)

(Phil climbing down into the gorge...we got a little wet)

After saying goodbye to Phil, I arrived in Uganda and was swept away to a rural district named Kamwenge where our water project will be based for the next year. I saw the site where we'll be staying and met my wonderful staff.

It is evident that clean water is needed in the villages where we'll be serving. Our survey showed that only 2.6% of the area has access to clean water. After speaking to the people we found that their common water source is the swamp over the hill and a small pond where their cattle and goats dip as well. Hard to imagine, right? We will be the only NGO working in this area and I will be the only white woman for many miles in every direction. It's a privilege to be in such a remote area that has so much need.

Please pray that God will bless the work of our hands. That the clean water our project provides points to Him and not to us. That we will all love Christ more and more each day.

Thank you so much for your love and support!

Prayer for aid workers in Sudan

2009-03-13T00:25:00.000-07:00

Please pray for three aid workers from Doctors without Borders who were kidnapped yesterday and are now being held for ransom in Sudan. They are a Canadian nurse, Italian doctor, and a French co-ordinator. Please pray for their protection and safety - and for their kidnappers. You can read the article here for more details:

http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/africa/7939223.stm

Please take the time to care for them through prayer today. They need our Lord.

Thank you so much.

Enjoying Nairobi

2009-03-07T12:10:00.000-08:00

Thank you all so much for your many prayers. I arrived in Nairobi yesterday safely - no problems at all. Praise God! And I met a lot of great people along the way. It was a really nice trip.

So now I'm enjoying my time in Nairobi with Phil. :) We took a couple of walks today, had some great coffee at the Java house, and ate lunch at Amani Ya Juu. For us, it was a little slice of heaven. God is good.

I'm sorry that I don't have any pictures yet, but regardless I wanted to let everyone know that I made it in just fine. I'll be leaving Nairobi for Uganda next Sunday. Until then, I'll be busy enjoying Nairobi...

Thankful for you!

Moving

2009-03-02T19:27:00.000-08:00

This is my childhood home. The house my father built for us 25 years ago. It's beautiful and perfect in our eyes.

Today the papers were signed to begin handing it over to a new young family. It sold the same day the For Sale sign was put up in the yard. Yes, in this economy, and in this tiny town! Praise God! He is so good to sell my parents' house so quickly.

Today my brother signed a lease for a new home of his own. He moves from the guys' apartment to his own place this week.

Also this week, I move to Africa. Unbelievable timing.

My entire family is moving right now. To new places. New homes. New people. If you have a sec, would you please pray for us. For relationships and church families. That my parents will find a new house in West Virginia quickly and I would find a place in Kampala. Thank you so much!

Home to be: UGANDA!

2009-02-27T07:28:00.000-08:00

"Ask and it will be given to you, seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."

Matthew 7:7

Praise God, He heard my cries and after 4 months of waiting He faithfully responded with an open door and a push through it. I love Him! I will be serving with a wonderful team in Uganda for the next year, managing a household water program. I leave on the 5th of March.

I am excited to meet Uganda! The people. The smell. The taste. The moutains. All the beauty. And all the rest. I'll do my best to bring a little piece of Uganda to you as well through this blog.

I am also excited to serve Uganda! To help bring clean and living water to the sick, hurt and lost. Bringing physical and spiritual hope. Bringing the love of Christ.

Know that I will be thinking of you. Missing you. And praying for you while I'm gone. Please keep in touch. Leave a comment! Shoot an email. Come visit! Trust me - you'll be a blessing!

May the love of Christ be the fingerprints of our lives - wherever we are or wherever we go, may Christ be touching lives through us - with love.

Goodbye Applebuddies!

2009-02-16T18:59:00.000-08:00

One thing that kept me sane these past few months was working at Applebee's. It was such a blessing to be hired there! I mean who hires a lady who says, "Well I could be here for 2 weeks or 2 months." But they did hire me (thanks Ed!), and I started waitressing again for the first time in 4 years. Fun times!

So I met a lot of wonderful people at the restaurant and we had some really great times. I always laughed so much when I was there! Some things I'm going to miss are...Karen's great tip stories...Sue Ls crazy comments and great smile...Sue Cs blunt honesty....Kristy singing the Na Na song....and Monday snack runs....I could go on, trust me. I loved the energy in the people and the place! I loved when we would all just sit around and share our funny (or pathetic) stories from the shift while chowing down on Apple food. Honestly, I just liked being with everyone. I really loved you guys! And I'm going to miss you.

Above is that picture of Applebee's in Beirut that I told you about. :) Maybe we can have a little reunion there someday...a little Applebuddy getaway. Until then...know that I'm so glad that God brought you into my life for a little while. I'll be thinking of you and praying for you while I'm gone. Remember that there's someone on the other side of the world that cares about you!

2009-01-30T15:00:00.000-08:00

Wow it's been hard saying good-bye to life in Liberia. I came home months ago. It took about 6 weeks until I really felt a true sadness about it all. I've been torn between thankfulness and sadness. Had I left the states before this time I don't think I would have felt it quite so deeply.

I'm still in the States - waiting on God. I wish I could throw patiently into that phrase, but most days I'd be lying. As many of you reading this, I wish I knew what was next. But in God's wisdom and kindess to us, He doesn't and won't reveal that until it's time. I'm glad that he loves me enough to deal with my persistence.

So in the meantime, I am praying - a lot. Yesterday, I heard a pastor say "prayer doesn't always change things, but it does change people." I believe that's true. I know the Lord's after my heart most of all. He's after all of ours. Trust Him. Your heart is best in His hands.

And I know it's been a long time since I've posted - sorry! To encourage myself to post more often, I decided that I'm going to make this a much more general blog - not just Liberia. My mom came up with the new name and I liked it. :) So here it goes....Life to the Fullest....A Dieu soit la Gloire!!

Prayer for Peter

2008-11-19T12:38:00.000-08:00

(Peter and I on our way home from our last M&E field visit together)

I learned yesterday that my close Liberian friend, Peter, lost his younger sister while she was giving birth to twins ... he wrote me this note:

"Things were really moving fine until on November 11, 2008 when I lost my younger sister in child birth at the JFK Memorial Hospital in Sinkor. The news came as a complete surprise to us the family members as she was not sick at all.

But we can't ask God why cause He giveth and He taketh. We ask Him for strength and courage to carry through. The Burial is scheduled for saturady, November 22 , 2008."

My heart breaks for Peter. I agree with my friend Marcel, it's all so confusing sometimes. Please feel free to join me in praying for Peter and his family...to cry out to God with Peter today...our Lord promises us that He hears our cries.

"Lord, do not hold back your tender mercies from Peter and his family today. Our hope is in your unfailing love and faithfulness." Psalm 40:11

Dancing with my namesake

2008-11-14T04:46:00.001-08:00

I think about Malawo a lot. I think about my namesake, Gdobo Dede. Always smiling when she spoke to me. I remember how she took care of me and the other ladies. Making sure we had hot water for evening bucket baths on the hill. I remember our instant, seemingly unconditional friendship, when she found me and spoke my name. There was something of God in that.

I wonder with hopeful tears, was she one of the 30-some that accepted Jesus Christ?

I remember dancing with her and the other ladies of Malawo. I was so excited when she pulled me over! It was so much fun!! (And this was a dance I could do.) Man, these ladies can dance I tell you.

I think of that day - of that joy. I think of the little bits of love we got to share. There's really something of God in that. God is so good to have given us that time together - that bond - that dance - that love. He really is something amazing.

Praying for Gdobo Dede today. That she would be dancing for joy because of what our Father has done for her. That she would know His love and love Him too. That we would get to dance together in Heaven someday!

"Love Him totally who gave Himself totally for your love. "

Saint Clare of Assisi

**Photos courtesy of the wonderful, talented Joni Byker

Home Sweet Home!

2008-10-22T06:34:00.000-07:00

Liberia seems like a dream already and Pennsylvania feels like home again. I have so much more to tell you about Liberia - especially more photos to post. I plan on doing it soon.

If you're from PA and want to hear a little about SP Liberia - please feel free to come to Mt. Zion Church in Girty for a little prayer and praise service at 6pm on Nov 2nd. I'll be speaking to folks about what God's doing across the ocean and showing a wonderful Malawo video that my friend Joni made.

So what have I been up to these days? Hugging my mom, four wheeling with my dad and hanging out in his treestand, surprising my Providence family, making apple dumplings with my gram, talking for hours and hours with Dane-girl, and wedding-planning with Sarah!!

HAPPY ENGAGEMENT SARAH AND JONATHAN!!!

Sarah was so good to let me use her computer this morning. And I was so happy to be able to steal these photos for my blog.

I love you, Sarah!!

Christ in Mafi Conadu

2008-09-30T13:42:00.000-07:00

Mafi Conadu is a muslim, Mandigo village in Lofa County, Liberia. Today, Peter and I visited our Community Health Education/Evangelism (CHE) program there. We were hosted by two young men, Stephen and Octavius, who are currently living in Mafi Conadu in order to train them on safe health and hygiene practices while teaching them about Jesus for the next year. The village people just adore Stephen and Octavius. They both speak Mandigo and Octavius grew up a muslim and accepted Christ as his Saviour just two years ago.

One of my questions for the Mandigos was, "what have you learned from Stephen and Octavius?"

"We learn about Abraham and how God provided a sacrifice for him so that he didn't have to sacrifice his son."

"We learn about Jesus. Jesus is in the Koran too. We know that he is really Son of God."

"Then, we learn about cleaning. That we must clean dishes and wash hands so that we don't get mosquitos and so we don't get malaria."

We continued to talk about God and Jesus. They don't think there should be division between Muslims and Christians. Amazingly, Amara smiled and said today,

"My children are free to be Christian."

Peter said, "God set everybody free." Everyone smiled and agreed.

"What could we do to make CHE better for your community? " I asked.

"Films - we'd like to see films about Jesus."

"We also have land we could give for a church to be built."

INCREDIBLE!! I am amazed at the work our Lord is doing in this muslim village through Stephen and Octavius! Please pray for the Mandigo tribe in Liberia. That they would accept Christ as their Saviour. That a church would indeed be built in Mafi Conadu. That they may enjoy Christ's love at work in their lives.

Pray also for Stephen and Octavius as they continue to minister to this village. For strength, perseverence, and encouragement in the weeks and months to come.

Thank you so much for your many prayers, my friends. I cannot say this enough - God is hearing and answering them every day! He loves us so very much.

(I will post a photo of this village shortly...my apologies for the delay.)

More about Liberia

2008-09-22T00:12:00.000-07:00

Liberia’s 14-year civil war displaced an estimated 500,000 persons, of which eighty percent were women and children. During the war, schools were demolished and learning ceased, resulting in approximately 35 percent of the population never attending school - including nearly 44 percent of females. Furthermore, Liberian women and girls have suffered from an epidemic of gender-based violence (GBV). It is estimated that 40% of women and girls were raped during the war and currently teenage pregnancy, which is often due to forced early marriages or rape, is as high as 68%. This lack of schooling and violence against women and youth has created a significant need for education, skills training, and psychosocial care throughout Liberia.

I've been working on a proposal intended to procure funding that will provide skills training, literacy instruction, and psychosocial care to the war-affected women and youth of Lofa County, Liberia. I just thought I'd share with you a little more about the people of Liberia tonight. Please remember these women and youth in your prayers.

Blessings to you all.

God is Good -- Here we go Steelers!

2008-09-21T00:19:00.000-07:00

This is my new favorite Liberian photo! Let me tell you why...

First, there is my wonderful friend Phil, sporting his favorite t-shirt -- you can't hear him, but he's chanting "Here we go, Steelers, here we go -- Pittsburgh's Going to the Superbowl!"

Then, we have the amazing new volleyball net that Phil set-up in our front yard this week! I am LOVING it. I even beat him in a game of quadrant ball yesterday. Life is good!

Don't miss the beloved UN car escorting all the Speedos home for the day. :)

And last but not least, we can see the beautiful sunset over the Atlantic.

This photo reminds me of God's goodness. That He has wonderful blessings in store for us, a great sense of humor, and He loves us so much. May we all give Him more of ourselves today. Trust Him. Enjoy Him.

"Delight in the LORD and he will give you the desires of your heart."

Psalm 37:4

Top 20 things you WILL want abroad

2008-09-14T13:52:00.000-07:00

This list is to make international travelling a bit more easy-oh. These are 20 things that my houesmates and I are really glad we brought - or really wish we would have. It's primarily for those of you traveling for more than one month, but would be useful for shorter-term missions as well. Hope this helps some of you someday...

1. iPod (don't forget to download some good sermons)
2. Cocoon sheet (aka. sleeping bag liner)
3. Travel pillow (ThermaRest makes GREAT roll-up ones)
4. Gravel or Dramamine (someone always needs it - trust me!)
5. Cold Medicine (Day and Night Quil)
6. Sports balls (soccer and volleyballs are best)
7. Duck tape
8. Head lamp
9. EXTRA 3oz plastic travel bottles
10. Rope (for clothes lines, hanging mosquito nets, and other repairs)
11. Carribeaners (just clip a few to your bag - you'll use em)
12. Good pocket knife (must be SHARP, with scissors)
13. Terry towel (get the big one - you'll use it more)
14. Cards for friends and family back home (it's GREAT to surprise them!)
15. Dr. Bronners 18-in-1 soap (but, don't solely rely on it)
16. Memory Stick
17. Baby wipes
18. Buff (http://www.buff.com.au/, I live in this thing up-country)
19. Bibles to give away
20. Small, but framed-photos of family and friends

And if you're staying for a couple months, I highly recommend buying your souvenirs for friends and family ASAP. Because you can decorate your home-away-from-home with all their stuff! Double blessing!! :)

Take care, my friends. Know that I miss and love you all very much!

SALVATION in Malawo!

2008-09-11T07:44:00.002-07:00

Two nights ago, my fellow staff members took the Jesus Film and Gospel Story to Malawo. The people had heard about the Jesus Film and specifically asked to see it.

Remember, Malawo is the center of juju magic and witchcraft in Liberia. Their altars and devil bushes are not ancient artifacts, rather they represent the present day evil that has entangled this village even today. It consists of only 32 households, but every Liberian knows of and is fearful of this city on a hill.

Could there be a better place for our God to display His glory?

So the plan was to show the two films over the course of about 4 days. But as the people of Malawo began watching the films, they didn't want us to turn them off - so we didn't. The plan was not to give an invitation to accept Christ yet. This is of course a very sensitive and potentially dangerous place. But as our ministry team was witnessing the work God was doing, they felt on their hearts that God wanted the people of Malawo to have a formal opportunity to accept Him this night. So Dennis gave the invitation - to anyone who wanted to accept Jesus Christ as their one and only Lord and Savior - to come in front of their village and proclaim their faith.

35 people from the village accepted and proclaimed Jesus Christ as their Savior on Tuesday night - including their village chief !!!

Tears fall from my eyes right now.

Their first-ever church service will be this Sunday. Please pray for them.

Our God truly is amazing! Let's rejoice with the angels and people of Malawo!

(The women of Malawo rejoicing!)

"But now a righteousness from GOD, apart from law, has been made known, to which the prophets testify. This righteousness from GOD comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of GOD, and are justified freely by His Grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus."
Romans 3:21-24

Fresh rain

2008-09-06T01:13:00.000-07:00

"Praising the Lord - always

Praising the Lord - always

Praising the Lord - with all our hearts

Praising the Lord with all our hearts always"

I am waking up today with this Liberian worship song on my mind. I am reminded by the rain that - Our God Provides. He sustains. He is refreshing. He loves us.

His hand is so clearly on this nation - guiding them to peace and reconciliation as they surrender their hearts and their lives to Him. My prayer is that we are all refreshed by our Lord today. May we love Him more and surrender ourselves to His goodness.

"The Lord reigns, let the earth be glad; let the distant shores rejoice." Psalm 97:1

Fish Ponds

2008-09-05T15:16:00.000-07:00

(Fish pond manager and his ponds in Bopolu)

During the war, Liberians felt hunger. Many fled from the fighting to neighboring countries Sierra Leone, Cote d'Ivoire, and Guinea leaving behind their livestock, aquaculture, and produce farms. Fleeing was no easy task. For many, it was weeks of walking, hiding, fear and hunger. I've been told many times about the hunger Liberians felt. They ate mayonnaise and tissue paper sandwiches, pets, any/all bush meat, and by rebel command - each other. Their scars are deep. Our Lord continues to heal them.

Today, Liberia is a new country - full of hope. Many Liberians are able to harvest again. Through projects such as the livestock, fish ponds and swamp rice farm rehabilitation, the people of this nation are re-learning how to produce food for themselves and their communities.

One example is the fish ponds like those pictured above. The direct beneficiaries are churches, though the entire community benefits indirectly. Members from the church are selected to receive training on fish pond management. The fish ponds are constructed with the help of the community. They are initially stocked and then handed over to the church to manage. They are sustainable because after each harvest, fingerlings are used to re-stock the ponds. These ponds have been known to last 30-40 years. They generate harvests large enough to supply the entire church body as well as to sell some for income generation. The income is then re-invested into the church to help meet their needs.

This project also provides for the spiritual needs of Liberians. It demonstrates Christ's love to them - His desire to provide for them - to feed their physical and spiritual hunger. It leads to relationship building with SP staff - which provides the opportunity for witnessing and sharing about Christ. Please pray that Liberians would come to know their Savior Jesus Christ in a meaningful and intimate way. Please pray that their faith would be deepened and that our Lord would continue feeding their physical and spiritual hunger.

Thank you so much for your prayers! God is answering them everyday.

PENNDOT isn't so bad after all...

2008-08-31T13:57:00.000-07:00

So after a few jungle rides, you realize that our PA roads are pretty sweet. Though I must admit, the Liberian commute is a lot more fun. This is a bridge we crossed on our way home from Bopolu.

Yeehaw!!

Malawo cont...

2008-08-28T23:57:00.000-07:00

Praise God! I can share some photos with you today...enjoy!!! Sometimes, it just works? :)

(This was our crew...we're all packed up and ready to roll!)

(This is Malawo - we popped tents in a house just like this one.)

(Dinner time - Bon apetite-o!)

(Here's a little view into their homes...this is their kitchen.)

(They're just too cute!)

(Installing biosand water filters - every house in Malawo has received one!)

(This is their "altar". And that was our hut directly behind it.)

(Entrance into the "devil bush".)

(Sunset from Malawo.)

(Taya, our leader, and the beautiful women of Malawo.)

(This is us again - Erin, Joni, Me, Patty, Taya, and Hauwa)

Ciao for now!

Malawo Update

2008-08-28T14:08:00.000-07:00

So we went to Malawo, a village that is infamous for its juju magic. We went to love the people, to be Christ to them and to provide for a couple of their basic needs. I was excited and a little nervous. I thought the people would be hesitant to meet us - that they might be a bit closed off and perhaps difficult to interact with. I couldn't have been more wrong.

We were welcomed with open arms - literally. I was given a hug by a village woman (Vahmu I think) when I reached the summit of our 1 hour hike to Malawo. The entire village came out of their homes to meet us and shake our hands. They wore bright smiles and received us with warm thank yous. I felt like I was going to church that evening. I mean, it was the kind of welcome you would expect from Providence Church of Pittsburgh.

We spent two nights in their village on the hill. We installed 6 biosand water filters and worked on plastering a latrine. To be honest, I mostly played with the chitlins (kids). They were such an easy, fun crowd I couldn't resist! They loved repeating my "sorry-oh!" and "oh la la!" - I think, just to make me smile.

God is indeed doing a mighty work on this hill. One woman of the village recently went to a Christian conference in a nearby city and a man asked to see the Jesus Film. God is stirring their hearts!

Please continue praying for salvation for the people of Malawo and for wisdom for our ministry staff as to how lead us in evangelism.

Love and blessings to you all,

"Kgobo Dede" (my Loma name)

PS. Again my apologies, internet is slow and therefore photos are difficult to post, but I'll keep working on it...

Prayer for Malawoo

2008-08-21T23:49:00.000-07:00

This morning we're leaving to spend the weekend in Malawoo. This village is famous in Liberia for its juju magic and human sacrifices. Please pray for us as we spend a couple nights sleeping in their village and a couple days being Christ to them.

Visit http://www.jonesinliberia.blogspot.com/ for more details about Malawoo and what we are doing in this village

Commute to work

2008-08-19T02:10:00.000-07:00

Sunday PM: Happily packing for an 8am departure up-country to Bopolu

Thinking in my head, "I'm so glad that we're leaving early!"

Monday

6:15AM: Wake up to the roosters (I haven't needed an alarm in 2 months)

7:45AM: Walk up to the office, big smile on my face, ready to go to Bopolu, baby!

8:00AM: "Hmmm....so Phil, what truck do you think we are taking?" I ask. I was expecting that we'd be packing the truck already. I was expecting that we'd at least have a truck already. Neither were true. Oh beloved expectations...

8:15AM: Mobile Hannah (our truck) arrives! BUT, Mobile Hannah is having electrical issues. What time will we be able to hit the road?" I ask Mason our logistics guy. "10AM." he replies confidently.

10:00AM: Hannah is still in the shop with 5 maintenance guys standing around her. "Are we ready to go?" I ask promptly. They look at me puzzled. I just asked a ridiculous question. Obviously we're not ready to go. Obviously there's still something wrong with the truck because there are 5 guys standing around it. But in my mind, since no one is actually working on anything in particular, I wonder, "if you're not really doing anything, then everything should be finished already, right?"

Wrong.

11:00AM. Hannah is a still a work in progress... I walk upstairs to see Phil. He has been in Africa a lot longer than me and therefore still working on his computer at his desk with no expectation at all that Hannah is ready to go. And he was right.

11:15AM: I talk to our driver, Walker. "Ca va, Walker? What time do you think?" "We can always go tomorrow.' Walker replies. "No. We need to go today, Walker" I tell him as sternly as possible.

11:45AM: Hannah is out of the shop and ready to go!! We decide to eat first and hit the road after lunch.

12:15: Walker asks me nervously if he can run home to get his bag. I tell him he MUST be back by 1:00.

12:45: Lunch is served late and I'm told that Walker is just now getting ready to go home and get his bag. I run outside to catch him. "No, Walker. Let's get it on the way. Please go eat some lunch."

1:30: We hit the road!! Woohoo!!

2:00: We're trying to decide where to go first - to backtrack twice of three times through the city.

2:30: We're still in Monrovia picking something up. What? I don't know.

3:00: I think we actually left the city.

4:30: Yep...literally on the road...we got a FLAT tire. :)

5:00: Still fixing the flat because we had the jack was too short for the Land Cruiser so the guys are scouting out sticks they can use to prop the jack on to lift the ATV high enough to get the tire off.

5:30: On the road again... :)

5:45: Walker tells me "Je suis condu".
"Qu'est-ce que c'est condu, Walker?"
"I'm tired" he translates.
"I might fall asleep. "
"Are you serious?" I ask, almost laughing. (He is the driver you know.)
"Yeah, do you think someone else can drive?"
I look back at Phil and ask him if he'd mind.
He laughs a bit too and jumps into the driver's seat.

6:45 We arrive in Bopolu!!

Interesting commute to work, eh....

Housemates

2008-08-14T14:50:00.000-07:00

Just sharing with you a couple of the lovely guys that have become our Monrovia housemates these days....

This spider is so big that I really don't want to kill him - he'll make too big of a mess!

Living in Liberia, you quickly get comfortable with these new housemates - among others like geckos, cockroaches, and persistent mosquitos. Most often, they provide good comedic relief for us ladies. I mean all you can do is laugh while your friends are chasing cockroaches around the kitchen with lethal bug spray!

Foya Fotos

2008-08-11T13:15:00.000-07:00

I'm visiting a beautiful new part of the country called Lofa this week. It's been a wonderful experience so far. I'll tell you a few details through pictures today....

This is our sub-base where we are staying for the week. Beautiful place!

These are the crazy muddy roads we travelled to see our projects today. We drove for over 45 mins on these jungle roads to visit communities where churches were being constructed. Honestly, these people amaze me - I mean, how do they get their rice the whole way back here? It's so heavy! And they certainly don't have cars. I tell you - Liberians are strong and determined people, my friends.

She is a beautiful woman that I thought you would enjoy meeting.

And he had the brightest smile of the day!

I went on a walk with my friends Phil and Celestina two nights ago. We came across this beautiful rice farm just as the sun was beginning to set. Isn't this country gorgeous?

This is a bit of the forest we were walking through. A forest full of palm trees. The smell is beautiful too. So fresh and crisp. I wish I could take you all on a little stroll with me.

Finally, we headed over to the Pakistani batallion tonight for a delicious dinner. We ate all too much Pakistani food, Celestina got to chat in Urdu, and we laughed about pitiful volleyball matches and dog-eating. Quite a crew we are here...Liberians, Pakistanis, and Americans....who would have ever imagined us all together sharing a meal in Lofa, Liberia? Life is definitely interesting these days. God is good!

I'm reminded of this verse...

"Keep on loving each other as brothers. Do not forget to entertain strangers, for by doing some people have entertained angels without knowing it." Hebrews 13:1-2

I feel like God has blessed me with some angels in my life these days...thanks for your prayers!

Rebuilding local churches

2008-08-05T14:34:00.000-07:00

I've been helping my friends with logical frameworks for the past week in Monrovia. Today I was helping Eddie, our Liberian Ministry Coordinator get his logframe organized. In the process, I learned more about the ministry that's being done here and I was reminded about this jungle church near Todee District.

This is one of many churches in Liberia that has become badly dilapidated as a result of the 14 year civil war (among other things.) They continue to worship inside this building, despite its poor condition.

However, Eddie has been explaining to me that it's difficult for a congregation to grow spiritually within such a poor structure. Therefore, part of his job is to work with congregations to rebuild their churches structurally and spiritually.

This rebuiling process consists of partnering with the local church and empowering them to rebuild their structures. The local church does all of the construction work and they supply much of the building materials such as concrete blocks. Eddie works to provide these churches with the resources that are not available in the jungle and those which they cannot afford.

In addition, the local church is offered discipleship and leadership training. Many Liberian churches are lead by pastors with little or no training. Therefore, we are coming alongside them to provide bibles and sound biblical teaching to these pastors and their congregations.

Finally, we are empowering these local churches to reach out to their greater community through events such as the Jesus Film showings. After the Jesus film usher those who have been impacted into one of these local churches in order that they can be quickly cared for by a church family.

Below is broken ground for a new church to replace the one above. Please pray for this congregation and for these ministry programs throughout Liberia. That God would use them for His glory!

a Love story

2008-08-03T14:43:00.003-07:00

LOVE is the name of a friend of mine. He is a young Liberian man who lived through much tragedy during the war. I know only bits and pieces of his story, but enough to want to share some with you.

Love is a funny, soft spoken guy. He loves to laugh and make you smile. I feel very comfortable around him, so I asked him about his family and where they went during the war. One day he told me a few details. He said softly, "We fled to Guinea because Monrovia was a battle field. Gunfire everywhere. I watched my best friends gunned down on the street."

"Oh no. What about your family, Love? Was your family okay?"

"No, my ma died" Love said bluntly.

He stared at his feet. My eyes welled up in tears. All I could say was that I was so sorry. Empty words. But a meaningful moment. I didn't ask for more details.

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One day, my housemate Erin came home with another Love story. Love was captured by rebels during the war along with a group of young boys. They were taken to the top of a hill and told by a particular soldier to turn around. He ordered them to begin running as soon as they heard gunfire. They turned as they were told, sure that death would follow. Moments later gunfire began and they sprinted. As Love ran for his life, he looked over his shoulder to see the soldier firing directly above their heads - but missing all of the boys. Love remembered his face. Most Liberians remember these faces.

A few months ago, Love was walking down the now peaceful streets of Monrovia. To his surprise, he saw him - it was that soldier's face. He stopped, pointed, and shouted, "Hey! Hey you! You tried to kill me!"

The man looked at Love, a bit alarmed, saying "I don't know what you are talking about?"

"You tried to kill me!' Love yelled. Now making a scene - drawing attention to the two of them.

"No I didn't!" the man squawked back - continuing to deny Love's accusation.

Love was certain that this was the man. He would never forget that face.

Love persisted, "I forgive you. I forgive you."

A crowd of people now watching. They all hear LOVE, but the man says nothing. He looks embarrased and continues in denial, but nonetheless hears Love.

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Are you hearing Love today? There is pain in this world. There is death. There are unbearable trials and burdens. But amidst it all - there remains Love.

Love was able to forgive that man only because of God's work in and through him. He knows and believes in Jesus Christ as his savior. He's living out his faith. Love is being Christ to the lost, unconditionally.

This is a true Love story, my friends. Remember that you are loved by our Father in heaven today. May you remain in His love.

Please continue to pray for Liberia - that Christ's love would go forth and save souls.

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Sorry for the lack of photos. My internet connection hasn't been very good. So, I must leave you with only a story tonight.

The new details

2008-07-30T14:13:00.000-07:00

So I've been back in Monrovia for a week now and loving it. Yogurt, couches, and flushing toilets are all great to me these days! I have a few new details to share about life in Liberia. I am finished with VBS and now helping to set-up a monitoring and evaluation department. It sounds much less exciting, I know - BUT it is a great way for me to use this master's degree that I'm toting around and I get to work with a wonderful woman from Pakistan, Celestina.

Another person that I get to work with these days is my friend Phil who was serving in Zimbabwe. Because of the deteriorating situation in Zim, he was sent to Liberia for a little while to work with our team. It's been fantastic sharing a piece of this experience with him. I never in a million years expected Phil to come and work in Liberia. God is good!!

Finally, the picture above is of my housemate Janell with JJ. Please keep Janell in your prayers as she is suffering from a tough bout of malaria. She's receiving treatment, but still vulnerable and very fatigued.

By the way, I saw a cockroach the size of a mouse last night and the spiders are bigger than the palm of my hand - no lie. I've learned that when I open the kitchen door, I need to pause a couple moments to let all the critters run back in their holes. And today my friend Willie killed a snake whose bite will supposedly kill you in an instant. Crazy Africa - lovin it! I'll post some more pictures soon!