Greg's input
Wow, it's been quite a time! Every week changes & seems to be more exciting than the last.
OK, so we all got to build a mud house. We left home bright & early & trekked out to where this house was to be built. It was to be for a woman with about 6 kids at home & apparently a couple had moved away. Her current home was a mud structure with a caving in wall & collapsing grass roof. Any time it rained, the family wasn't protected from the elements or animals.
We began by using pangas, which are large machete knives, to dig post holes about 2 feet down. That felt like a long way using such rudamentary tools. Many holes & blisters later, we sank some posts hacked out of the surrounding woods. Larger pieces were nailed to the tops and then an arch formed. Small branches were nailed on the inside & outside to create a housing for mud.
A large hole was dug nearby & lots of strong young men dug down about 16" back & forth, then adding water to it, digging again & trodding with their feet.
Everyone got involved from old mama's to little kids (watotos) packing mud to others who pushed it down the wall housings.
We worked all day long until 5 o'clock when all walls were up & the roof on. We all felt great taking part in practical ministry. In the end, we took the family inside & prayed over them & the new house. Check out our gallery on this site for the pictures!
The next day, we went to a nearby town called Manyulia. The church there Manyulia Miracle Center was hosting their first "Youth Conference." Youth in Africa means under 30 - not married. There was a great turnout - the church has around 60 members & there were around 30 youth that attended.
Geordie, Nick & Jon all took turns teaching & did an outstanding job. We used the teachings from our church in Kamloops, Deeper Life, from the Encounter Weekend, the Journey & School of Leaders. The boys are doing well developing their speaking ability & showed no fear of public speaking.
We did that for 3 days and all came back quite fulfilled.
Renee & I had to head into Kisumu for some business on Dec.24th - not a great idea - buses are bad enough - add to it Christmas travellers & you have a Toyota van bus (matatu) with seating for 12 with 22 people stuffed into it.
We got our business done in 3 hours & headed back - got on the bus at 1 & ended up back in Butere just before 5 - LORD ----- WE NEED A VAN!!!!
We had a lovely Christmas Eve & played LUDO until we couldn't stand it anymore. It was great. We all bought 1 secret gift for someone in the house & had a lot of fun keeping to our 100 shilling limit (buck & a half).
Christmas came in mighty slowly - I had 0 energy - felt like I would collapse - I got a high fever of 39.2C & an ugly case of diahreaha! Many trips to the hospital & clinics to find out I have typhoid & Dougie, who lives with us has malaria.
We suffered from Tuesday to Friday & finally were diagnosed & treated by a good Christian doctor. We felt better by Saturday - which is today. Yeehaw.
We're off to Uganda on Monday! Been watching the internet news about the Ebola outbreak - it never ceases to be fun & interesting here in Africa!
Renee's input
The experience for me has been very interesting. From the bus rides into Kisumu to the little girls that visit me every chance they can.
On our last bus ride we road from the Butere to Kisumu and it should take 1 ½ hours ride but because of the Christmas season it took us 5 hours. We were stuffed into a 13 seated bus stuffed with 22 people. It because very hot one good thing about being over stuffed is that the bumps on the road don’t seem so hard because we pad each other. I had the pleasure of holding a newborn baby and every ½ hour or so would get a new child on my knee.
I have had the challenge of training all the guys in the house on how to stay safe while living in Africa, everything from not giving out to much information to strangers to cleaning the bathroom. I am very proud of all of the guys. We are all on a big learning curve.
They have soon realized why I ask them not to do certain things like not brushing their teeth with the water that comes out of the tap. Nick has had to deal with a Intestinal infection, me Malaria and Greg Typhoid. Even being as careful as we are it can only take not wiping all the water of the plate that you just washed. So we are using treated water to wash all dishes in as a extra precaution. A couple of weeks ago I was treated for Malaria and the pills that they prescribed didn’t work so I am now on the second set of pills. In a few days we will be back to normal life again.
The first month of living was without electricity, or running water. We did have a generator that was the church loaned us so we could have lights at night for a few hours a day.
Yes we have all been blessed with a house that has somewhat of a water system, when it decides to work. It can be very moody at times. After moving in we were told that it has water and electricity. To our surprise the water didn’t work. After a week of not having water we decided to investigate why it was not working and found the wires to be cute off at the pump. After reconnecting them, we realized that the water was not getting to the house. So after higher a plumper to unclog the pipe to the house we have been happy sailing.
I personally have learned how to cook main things with a few ingredients. I am quite amazed with it all. I sure was glad that I brought some spices from home. After getting a gas cooker (stove) the guys love me even more; for all the cakes, cookies and bread they have been getting. We sometimes have the neighbors sneaking over for a treat once in awhile.
I have had the pleasure of seeing the guys in the house grow so much in the Lord. I love to see them so sold out and wanting more of what he has to offer.
The last week we have been at home just relaxing and enjoying the little things in life. Christmas time and election time are times when not much happens around Kenya. We have had nights of playing board games, laughing and really getting to know each other. Jon has taught the guys to play many card games.
Well we are off to Uganda in a few days. It has been a little bit of a chore to figure out whether we were going for sure or not because of the Ebola outbreak. After investigating it on the internet we have decided that it is not a huge risk. The areas that we are going into are safe from Ebola and it has been contained in the north. They have now new outbreaks for a long time. We are excited for the trip, we are spending the first few day with the Orphans and then off to a conference.
Looking forward to all that is ahead of us. We are going into a village without power running water. So will be a experience for all.
Geordie's Input
This last week has been one of the best weeks so far. We were at a youth conference about 20 mins away from Butere in a village called Manyulia. This was for me the real first time to experience teaching in a bigger setting not just in home groups (not counting Webuye mess up hah). I got challenged a lot at this conference and God really stretched and helped me because I would never have thought I could do something like teach a youth congregation. Also this week BMC organized building a mud home for a family in need, so we went and helped. It was pretty sweet to be able to help them and learn at the same time how they build houses.
Nick's Input
The youth conference at Manyulia, for me, was the best conference so far, firstly, because me, Geo, and Jon did some teachings, which was the first time for me, and secondly, because I really enjoyed and felt connected with the people and the pastors at this church. God has been showing me at these conferences and also, just in all things, that he truly is with me “always and to the end of the age,” and that through him I can do all things. We also helped build a mud hut this week, which was a lot of fun for me. We got to see what kind of engineering and planning goes into building an African house: nothing. It almost seemed like they woke up in the morning, and were like, “Let’s build a house today.” It was cool though, and now I can implement African style construction with North American style, and form an awesome hybrid. These past couple weeks, another highlight for me has been borrowing the church’s guitar which has been musically refreshing after not playing for over 2 months; Delightful!
Jon’s Input
I’ve been here for 6 weeks now, and an interesting 6 weeks it has been! I have gained much already. I have gotten to know some of the people, and have admired their friendly and gracious nature, their kind and servant hearts, and their free and joyful worship to the living God. I have experienced the culture; the welcoming homes (where even the little that families have, they will share), the many children everywhere, and the fact that Africans CANNOT manage time!! I have also seen some of the beauty of this still largely non-urbanised country, and felt the consequences of travelling distance on roads no better than dirt rally tracks!
I have enjoyed the diversity of my time in Kenya so far. It has ranged from involvement in crusades and conferences: performing dramas, giving testimonies, and recently even offering some teaching, to fellowshipping with my family here as well as people in the church, and even assisting with the building of a house – where as boys we really got our hands (and feet in my case!) dirty. Beyond this, it has been great to spend quality time away from the stresses of ‘western life’ to seek the Lord; to spend time in prayer and in the Word of God!
Saturday, December 29, 2007
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
December 5, 2007
(Greg Plunkett’s input)
Wow, it’s been a while since we last uploaded a blog – so here we go.
The IMS team arrived from Canada, England & Uganda on November 19th. It was led by the director, Rev. Mike Jones & included some folks from our church, Deeper Life Community in Kamloops, BC, Canada >>> Audrey, Derryl King, Mandy Jones & Janet Jones. From England, there was Miles Witherford, Steve Clapton, David Faulkner, Nigel Rowe & Jon Start. From Uganda came Ev.Marvin Mutongole & Ev.Peter Erima.
The team missed their connecting flight out of Nairobi to Kisumu & had to spend a night. We met up with them the following day, which was Tuesday the 20th. Wednesday morning, we met up with our team & theirs for drama practice.
That evening we all dispersed in teams to 3 different locations for crusades – Lunza, the Upper Market of Butere & just beyond Shatsala. Greg preached at the small village of Lunza where there was a massive harvest of over 50 souls; Ev.Marvin Mutongole preached at the Upper Market & said it was like preaching & having the words come back at you (all of us had a turn & came to the same conclusion – hard ground indeed!) Mike preached Shatsala & saw a good harvest. Over the next two nights, we all took a turn at each location. So many new souls were saved.
Wednesday night we went to the Butere Girls’ School & had our usual fun-filled & loud night. The girls always give us an amazing reception – feels a bit like a concert & being a celebrity. There were about 6-700 present.
Saturday the 24th, the entire team went to Butere Boy’s School. We had a fast paced program of testimonies & skits where everyone was involved. Mike finished off with an outstanding preach & we saw many boys saved & changed. We finished off with a ‘fire tunnel’ where the boys passed through all of us as we blessed them & prayed for them – approximately 3-400 boys.
Sunday, we all dispersed to various churches & preached & had an outstanding time.
Monday was a day for the market & a visit to the piggery. Then we had a long luncheon with invited guests of pastors & Bishops. The Tanzanian team arrived, including Robert Chidundo & Moses from Arusha, a Masai & some other Pastors, Julius & Jerimiah.
Tuesday began the Fire Conference with about 5-600 in attendance. Christ Ambassadors – a worship team led by Pastor Sammy Opingo from Nairobi who has one of the best teams around.
Wednesday, we had a full day for the Conference & a large crusade in the afternoon which Mike preached at & we saw about 10 saved. The evening Mike preached again at the revival meeting.
Thursday the 29th, the conference was jam packed with amazing teachings which brought so much revelation & encouragement. The afternoon saw Bishop Robert Chidundo preaching the crusade with about 15 being saved. Greg preached the evening revival.
Friday was another wonderful day of teachings at the conference. The afternoon Greg preached at the crusades where over 40 were saved. It is usual for each day of crusades to increase in volume & salvations. The evening, Marvin preached the revival meeting.
Saturday, we wound up the conference with Pastor Miles & Rev. Mike Jones. The meetings & announcements carried on for about 6 hours before lunch – hunger pangs! The evening was a HUGE feast at Bishop Ongudi’s home with the entire team being blessed with an amazing meal. We socialized & relaxed after many long day& services.
Sunday, we held a large final church service at the conference grounds – Butere Miracle Academy. There were many in attendance & Rev. Mike preached an outstanding anointed message. We finished off with many announcements & celebrations – going from 10am to 3:30 pm & then a big luncheon. Greg spent more than 2 hours in the cook shack….much smoke & fumes….not my calling. The evening, we wound up at Eshimuli Guest house for our final team meal together. Mike J spent so many intermittent hours meeting with many pastors & leaders regarding so many church & leadership issues. I’m sure he was relieved when they ended, but he accomplished so much.
Monday, some of the IMS team went off on a safari. The rest went with Greg & Renee to Kisumu where we showed them where to get carvings & other souvenirs. We got back late & moved Jon Start in to our house.
Tuesday, the 4th was Jon’s first day with us & Doug Manyasa, a local Kenyan moved in as well. There are now 6 of us in the house; most wonderful. Doug has become part of the family where he can stay in the house when we are away & help around the place to make a salary. We love him so much.
God has richly blessed us with unity in every way. Everyone is working together, serving & helping one another in & out of the house. We look so forward to the months ahead.
Renee had her excitement for the day when a gecko jumped on her chest & she thought it was a spider! She aged a couple of years there.
(Geordie Milne’s input)
Africa thus far has been for the most part an awesome experience. I’ve seen personal growth in so many areas of my life. Each day is like a new adventure and I’m learning and experiencing things I would never be able to if I didn’t come here. There are so many aspects that make Africa a must place to visit for mission trips.
The majority of Africans are such loving and honouring people that don’t ask much. It’s humbling how much they want to help you. They challenge you in a lot of areas like servant hood and respect. I also like their worship because it’s very honest and undignified before God; you can see their hearts in it which is usually very authentic.
Probably the best thing about Africa is your faith is stretched so much. Be prepared to be constantly public speaking. But don’t let that scare you because I use to be extremely fearful when I had to talk in front of crowds but God helps you so much, that you can’t even explain it. It’s God working through you. Also you get to know what your gifts are from God and how you can use them.
I’ve only been here a little over a month and I’ve seen some of the most growth as a person and most importantly my journey with Christ. I encourage everyone to come and see what it’s like here in Africa whether you go for only a month or even longer, it’s worth it.
(Nick Ellsay’s input)
Some things that have stuck out to me while being in Africa are the exotic animals like zebras, chameleons, one of which I caught. Also, I like how everything like bugs and plants, and stuff are the same as in Canada, just multiplied in size. I love how friendly the people are, and how two men holding hands means they are good friends.
Spiritually, everyone is so much more open and receptive to God and to evangelism than back home in Canada. Something else I’ve noticed is how everyone here, no matter what age , has a childlike innocence that the bible talks about, which is basically non-existent in Canada.
Wow, it’s been a while since we last uploaded a blog – so here we go.
The IMS team arrived from Canada, England & Uganda on November 19th. It was led by the director, Rev. Mike Jones & included some folks from our church, Deeper Life Community in Kamloops, BC, Canada >>> Audrey, Derryl King, Mandy Jones & Janet Jones. From England, there was Miles Witherford, Steve Clapton, David Faulkner, Nigel Rowe & Jon Start. From Uganda came Ev.Marvin Mutongole & Ev.Peter Erima.
The team missed their connecting flight out of Nairobi to Kisumu & had to spend a night. We met up with them the following day, which was Tuesday the 20th. Wednesday morning, we met up with our team & theirs for drama practice.
That evening we all dispersed in teams to 3 different locations for crusades – Lunza, the Upper Market of Butere & just beyond Shatsala. Greg preached at the small village of Lunza where there was a massive harvest of over 50 souls; Ev.Marvin Mutongole preached at the Upper Market & said it was like preaching & having the words come back at you (all of us had a turn & came to the same conclusion – hard ground indeed!) Mike preached Shatsala & saw a good harvest. Over the next two nights, we all took a turn at each location. So many new souls were saved.
Wednesday night we went to the Butere Girls’ School & had our usual fun-filled & loud night. The girls always give us an amazing reception – feels a bit like a concert & being a celebrity. There were about 6-700 present.
Saturday the 24th, the entire team went to Butere Boy’s School. We had a fast paced program of testimonies & skits where everyone was involved. Mike finished off with an outstanding preach & we saw many boys saved & changed. We finished off with a ‘fire tunnel’ where the boys passed through all of us as we blessed them & prayed for them – approximately 3-400 boys.
Sunday, we all dispersed to various churches & preached & had an outstanding time.
Monday was a day for the market & a visit to the piggery. Then we had a long luncheon with invited guests of pastors & Bishops. The Tanzanian team arrived, including Robert Chidundo & Moses from Arusha, a Masai & some other Pastors, Julius & Jerimiah.
Tuesday began the Fire Conference with about 5-600 in attendance. Christ Ambassadors – a worship team led by Pastor Sammy Opingo from Nairobi who has one of the best teams around.
Wednesday, we had a full day for the Conference & a large crusade in the afternoon which Mike preached at & we saw about 10 saved. The evening Mike preached again at the revival meeting.
Thursday the 29th, the conference was jam packed with amazing teachings which brought so much revelation & encouragement. The afternoon saw Bishop Robert Chidundo preaching the crusade with about 15 being saved. Greg preached the evening revival.
Friday was another wonderful day of teachings at the conference. The afternoon Greg preached at the crusades where over 40 were saved. It is usual for each day of crusades to increase in volume & salvations. The evening, Marvin preached the revival meeting.
Saturday, we wound up the conference with Pastor Miles & Rev. Mike Jones. The meetings & announcements carried on for about 6 hours before lunch – hunger pangs! The evening was a HUGE feast at Bishop Ongudi’s home with the entire team being blessed with an amazing meal. We socialized & relaxed after many long day& services.
Sunday, we held a large final church service at the conference grounds – Butere Miracle Academy. There were many in attendance & Rev. Mike preached an outstanding anointed message. We finished off with many announcements & celebrations – going from 10am to 3:30 pm & then a big luncheon. Greg spent more than 2 hours in the cook shack….much smoke & fumes….not my calling. The evening, we wound up at Eshimuli Guest house for our final team meal together. Mike J spent so many intermittent hours meeting with many pastors & leaders regarding so many church & leadership issues. I’m sure he was relieved when they ended, but he accomplished so much.
Monday, some of the IMS team went off on a safari. The rest went with Greg & Renee to Kisumu where we showed them where to get carvings & other souvenirs. We got back late & moved Jon Start in to our house.
Tuesday, the 4th was Jon’s first day with us & Doug Manyasa, a local Kenyan moved in as well. There are now 6 of us in the house; most wonderful. Doug has become part of the family where he can stay in the house when we are away & help around the place to make a salary. We love him so much.
God has richly blessed us with unity in every way. Everyone is working together, serving & helping one another in & out of the house. We look so forward to the months ahead.
Renee had her excitement for the day when a gecko jumped on her chest & she thought it was a spider! She aged a couple of years there.
(Geordie Milne’s input)
Africa thus far has been for the most part an awesome experience. I’ve seen personal growth in so many areas of my life. Each day is like a new adventure and I’m learning and experiencing things I would never be able to if I didn’t come here. There are so many aspects that make Africa a must place to visit for mission trips.
The majority of Africans are such loving and honouring people that don’t ask much. It’s humbling how much they want to help you. They challenge you in a lot of areas like servant hood and respect. I also like their worship because it’s very honest and undignified before God; you can see their hearts in it which is usually very authentic.
Probably the best thing about Africa is your faith is stretched so much. Be prepared to be constantly public speaking. But don’t let that scare you because I use to be extremely fearful when I had to talk in front of crowds but God helps you so much, that you can’t even explain it. It’s God working through you. Also you get to know what your gifts are from God and how you can use them.
I’ve only been here a little over a month and I’ve seen some of the most growth as a person and most importantly my journey with Christ. I encourage everyone to come and see what it’s like here in Africa whether you go for only a month or even longer, it’s worth it.
(Nick Ellsay’s input)
Some things that have stuck out to me while being in Africa are the exotic animals like zebras, chameleons, one of which I caught. Also, I like how everything like bugs and plants, and stuff are the same as in Canada, just multiplied in size. I love how friendly the people are, and how two men holding hands means they are good friends.
Spiritually, everyone is so much more open and receptive to God and to evangelism than back home in Canada. Something else I’ve noticed is how everyone here, no matter what age , has a childlike innocence that the bible talks about, which is basically non-existent in Canada.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
