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It is hard to believe that we have only two days of teaching left. Our seminar will end on Thursday, giving the pastors time to prepare for their Sunday worship. The response of the men has been great and they have shown genuine appreciation for the lessons taught.

They also ask good questions. They have asked questions such as how to examine miracles to ensure they come from God and not His enemy. They have asked questions about a new idea taking root here that pastors should only be called for a two or three year contract. They have asked questions about leadership selection and all kinds of very practical things about church life. What is fun is the fact that all three of us are responding to the questions. This often means that one man will make a point that triggers a thought with one of the rest of us. Collectively, it seems like we have been able to help them a great deal.

Today at lunch, we were eating with Mwila Kalebaila who is an elder here at Riverside. He proceeded to describe the ongoing influence of demonic power here in Africa. Witchcraft, spells, occult practices and demon influence are still affecting peoples lives.

The pastors ministering here carry quite a challenge to face such evil under such challenging circumstances and to do so with such little education and training. It has been a great honor to be a part of this training team.

Finally, have I mentioned that it is getting hot? I have to chuckle when I hear that it has been snowing in the Northwest. I could use some cooling right now, but we are learning to adjust. I thought I might drop a pound or two in Africa but I am wondering if I am going to be bringing a pound or two extra back with me. The food has been excellent and plentiful.

Thanks again for praying. We had fun telling the men yesterday just how many are praying for them all over the country. Those at Mountain View are praying, those from Keith’s ministry in Kentucky are praying, those associated with ITEM and Steve and praying plus those who are signed up to Steve’s mailing list. We figure that there are hundreds lifting this ministry to the Lord. So, again, thanks for being one of them.

This picture is of the cooking crew for the Chingola meetings. It is always done outdoors and they have just taken an area under a shade tree and turned it into a kitchen.

The ladies were in a spirited discussion with the coal vendor. The man had been charging 25,000 Kwacha but this time wanted more. I don’t know how it turned out but we did get a hot lunch.

Finally, here is a picture of Bernard (on the left) and Melenga who are coordinating this seminar for Chingola. These men are responsible for registering attendees and helping solve problems that come up. Both are great men with a very mature attitude about their service for Christ.

Thanking you for your service for Christ,

Pastor Bill