Wednesday 21 January 2009

A New Year in Mwandi

During our absence over Christmas in Australia, a new borehole was drilled and a hand pump mounted at Mwanangono B. This is a section of the village, a ward if you like. This was organized at long-distance by e-mail from Australia and was funded by Aiken Church, South Carolina. However, it was not sited where we expected, so there is a disgruntled Committee at Mwanangono B East but a delighted one at Mwanangono B North!

The school have asked Keith to take another Grade 8 class for Maths and Science. We are waiting patiently to hear from the Ministry of Education as to whether we can open a Grade 10 this year. The local carpenter is making stools and benches for the Science Laboratory at present.

The Milk Formula Programme continues. It is administered well on the ground by Irene and Kufakisa. There are now 60 babies being fed. We have made contact with the distributer in Lusaka in an attempt to cheapen the cost. They have agreed to supply us at import cost and even deliver the powder to us every three months if we can order enough at a time.

As Paul asks, who indeed is sufficient for these things? Looking back at our lives we can see that God doesn’t necessarily call us because we are fitted for the job. He calls us, then equips us as we obey him. Philippians 4:13 is a great comfort here in trying to deal with the natural doubts and feelings of inadequacy - I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.

We thank you all for your cards, letters, e-mails and best wishes over Christmas and the New Year and for your continued prayers.

With love
Keith Ida & Family