Week of travel

This past week we traveled from Manzini, the center of the country (which is about the size of the state of New Jersey) to the East, North, South and back to Manzini each night.

We visited the District Assemblies which was spoken in both Swazi and English. What a joy to hear the Pastor's reports and share their joys. They shared about the new converts that are being discipled for baptism. Many shared that they had been able to get hooked into electricity this past year. Many shared the need for water to their communities. All the Districts are growing in number but 2 are struggling financially as there is just not enough work for so many people. Rev. Collin Elliott, the Africa South Field Strategy Coordinator, repesented the General Supt, Dr Jerry Porter. A General Supt. comes only every other year due to the number of assemblies that need to be chaired in Africa.

On Saturday we attended the funeral of our friend Valerie Young's Sister. It was held in the Church and very simular to a Christian funeral in the states. The difference was that everyone goes to the graveside and stays until the casket is fully covered with dirt. Then they all gather for tea and cake. The burial was at a family cemetery. After that part of the funeral was over the family all went to Valerie's home for a BIG meal. We live right next to her so we were part of the family. We could not believe the amout of food that was fixed and consumed. Boy was it good food. We may have eaten enough to share with you also. The Swazi's know how to celebrate and the home going of a Christian is a good time to celebrate.

Our computer is still down so will write again when we get a chance. In the meantime continue to remember us in prayer.