Monday, May 23, 2011

Orphan Youth Camp 2011

With the Lord's perfect timing and setup, we were able to put together a youth camp this year. Mandy had been corresponding with people from True Love Waits and has been praying for a presentation for the youth in our orphan program. We were so excited that two young ladies who have been trained to do youth seminars and followup Bible studies came to Malawi. It was such a privilege that we could have them at our youth retreat.
Kelley Barrow and Emily Douglas are from South Carolina and have been studying at the University of South Carolina. They are spending their summer in Malawi teaching True Love Waits and have become very busy walking through the doors the Lord has been opening for them.




The illustrations and interactions were very applicable for the Malawian youth. They loved the participation. The sessions really helped them to think not only about their decision to commit to purity and abstinence, but also with their commitment to Jesus.







The camp included an overnight stay and the kids stayed up most of the night singing and talking. Even after the long night, the youth were so attentive to the teaching on love, sex and marriage.







Andy was the "Game Guy" and there were some really hilarious and fun games.









The youth were strongly urged not to take the commitment lightly and to
seriously think about their decision. Of 35 youth, 17 signed commitment cards. The rest of the kids may decide to sign the commitment cards after they attend the follow-up Bible studies for the next 10 weeks.

What an awesome work of God!

Andy's Visit


During the month of May, God gave us a wonderful gift! Our son Andy came to visit us The time has been way too short, but more than exceeded our expectations. It has been such a joy to see God moving in Andy's heart about Malawi that started many months ago and then we have seen Him begin to orchestrate this visit with more teachings for Andy. Here is a brief description of our adventures during his visit.





The kids at Mphanda village gave Andy a warm welcome as he visited the church that first Sunday. We worshiped with the small congregation and Larry preached.








Andy's first Malawian meal was nsima, cooked cabbage with onion and tomato, and hard-boiled eggs. Malawians rarely eat eggs for breakfast, but mostly as a main dish for lunch or dinner.




















Andy assisted with digging a well. Here, they are preparing the drainage holes for what comes out of the bore hole.
















They attach the drill bit for cutting into the ground.








As the drilling continues the water and dirt that is coming out has to be inspected for small bits of rock.



Andy and Mandy visited one of Lilongwe's parks where we saw many monkeys, baboons, a lion, leopard, python, and crocodiles. The river running through it was so beautiful.

The kids at the orphan care site loved Andy and he loved them. It's so amazing to see how he fit into our ministry. He will leave on June 13. We are praying for Andy's future. Please join us.