Antoine speaking on Sunday morning

We had a good meeting on Sunday with 7 visitors joining us. Pat continued his series on family with a sermon on 'Being part of the local church' emphasizing the importance of small groups which bear a closer resemblance to the early church than our Sunday meetings do.

We have agreed to a request by the local authorities to start a preschool at our building. They will start with about 100 children and will teach from 8.00 to 12.00 on weekdays. The owner of the building that we rent is making many improvements and has put in concrete floors, plastered the walls, put in ceilings, installed wiring and plumbing. We signed a contract with him for another year so this gives us space to plan for building on our own land nearby. We are also giving some thought to starting a tea house in the evenings as an alternative to the many bars in the village that offer the only social life.

Some 'Small Group' leaders making a presentation

Church was good this morning. Pat began a 3 part series on 'Family'. The emphasis today was on the responsibilities and rewards of being a member of the family of God. Two ladies gave their lives to Jesus and we had much rejoicing. We prayed for all the students returning to start a new school year especially those traveling. The small group leaders meeting had a present for Pat. The presentation was done in typical Rwandan style. They sang then gave a little speech. It was quite moving and Pat cried. God is good and we are so blessed.

Joel and Brendan on Lake Kivu

Many blessings in 2009 to all our supporters. We had a welcome break at the Kibogora Free Methodist Mission Hospital between Christmas and New Year. We enjoyed the company of the many missionaries to Rwanda and Congo who were there also. The boys loved swimming and boating on Lake Kivu with their friends.

We had a planning meeting with Antoine this week and it looks like a busy time ahead. We have rented premises for the sewing project that is sponsored by the Almond Vineyard in Edinburgh. We will buy 2 machines to start with and find a tailor to begin work and training shortly. Pictures and story to follow.