It's Official

Just a quick update on how AWESOME GOD IS and WAS and WILL BE.

I'm thrilled to let you know that I recently received my final "official" signatures from my school district! This year I sense God calling me to go on this mission again. I am filled with wonder about what He is going to reveal to me - what I am supposed to learn - what I am supposed to do - who I will encounter - what spiritual - physical - and mental transformation will occur - and how God will use me to touch another? There are NO COINCIDENCES in my book. God knows. He has plans for us - for me and for you.

I do not believe that it is a coincidence that He lifted the hands and pens of my school administrators at exactly the right time. I believe that God is in full control of every aspect of all "timing" there is. My paperwork was signed on December 9th and it arrived to me this week. A few days later the entire staff received a note from the "big board office" that all discretionary funds such as the one used to allow me to go on this mission would be "frozen" starting this week. Only those requests signed before this week would be honored. How incredibly BIG and AMAZING and IN CONTROL is OUR GOD? can I hear "Amen"? - because God knows - and His Victory is ours.

From the Library. . .

A Blade of Grass

The Covenant

South Africa In The News

Here is one of the latest articles published online by a division of the United Nations about the Cholera outbreak.

Don't Forget

Friday, December 12th
(7:00 pm - Tice Home)
Mandatory Meeting

Bring a T-shirt that represents you!
We'll share these at this meeting.

Please bring your binder and any outstanding paperwork such as your Team Service Opportunities Survey.

Looking forward to seeing you soon.

a New Addition

We are really excited about the new dormatory that we will be staying in on our trip. The dorm is located next door to the Mafu's house. Look at the porch with the overhang! There is a small kitchenette with a burner and at least one shower if not two that I know of! One of the benefits of this dormatory is that we will be able to store and sort our medical supplies there without disrupting the church or the Mafu's home. I can't wait to see it with my own eyes.

Writing Your Support Letter

This can be a somewhat daunting task especially if it is the first support letter you have written. Pray first before writing your letter. God will give you the words that communicate your heart of excitement for this short term mission. It has been my experience that people from all parts of my life really love receiving the letter regardless of whether or not they are able to provide financial support. So, please walk forward in faith that God will bless you through this process.

What to include in your letter:
1. Why are you going on the mission trip?
2. When are you going and for how long?
3. Is there a scripture verse that you might want to include?
4. What are we going to do on the trip? What will be accomplished? (there is a lot of this information in the trip binder)
5. Let your supporters know that it would be appreciated if they would send their support by May 1st.
6. Explain that our team needs to raise around $79,600 (appx. $3,800 a person) in order to travel to South Africa, purchase medicine & supplies, and serve the community of eSikhawini.

Here are a few links to help you get started:
Nursing student's trip to Guatemala
Volunteers for China sample letter and ideas on who to send your letter to

Here are some samples which should personalize:
sample 1

December 2008
Dear Family & Friends,
God has given me the opportunity to go on a short-term medical mission trip to South Africa with Africa Christian Ministries this upcoming April (April 3- April 19). The team I will be working with will serve the tired and the sick in and around the township of eSikhawiniwith with spiritual and physical health care. Our team will provide medical care to patients as we minister in Jesus' name.
I am writing to ask you to prayerfully consider joining our team through your support. First, please partner with me in praying for the people we will be serving, for my health and effectiveness as a team member, and for the many details of this mission trip.
Second, please consider supporting me financially for this outreach. Our team must raise $79,600 in order to effectively serve the people of South Africa. If you would like to join the team in this way, please send your tax-deductible gift and the completed form in the envelope or via online at the following secured websiteI have provided by March 15th. I am also including a list of medical and supply needs that can be donated to this trip if you would like to participate in this way. Thank you for praying about being a vital part of our team. I look forward to telling you all about the work that is accomplished through your generosity.
Sincerely,
(NAME)
(Add a handwritten note to personalize the letter.)

sample 2

Sample Fundraising Letter – Gulf Coast Mission Trip
Send to Friends and Family

Hello! I send greetings from Royal Oak.
This summer I will be going to eSikhawini, South Africa with a group of short term missionaries from a myriad of metro Detroit churches. We will be working through Africa Christian Ministries to provide medical care to the people of the Kwa-Zulu nation who have been ravaged by the AIDS epidemic. [Include some stats that stir your heart] There will around 21 people on my team that will set up medical clinics and serve around 1000 people who normally do not have access to any medical care. I am excited to have this chance to serve people, and I know that God will use this trip to teach me a lot about God, myself, trust, and what God is doing in this world.

Now, I want to ask for your help: I need prayer and I need financial support! I will be so thankful if you help me with the first, no matter what you decide. I hope that you will begin praying about this trip and about being part of my financial "support team." I need to raise about $3,800 to help pay for transportation to and in South Africa, medicine, and supplies by March 15th. I hope that you will be able to help financially--any amount that you give will help me get to the South Africa (and back!). [NOTE: Your gift will be tax-deductible.] But the most important gift that you can give is prayer.
If you are reading this letter, it is because I consider you a friend. I want you to know what God is doing with me and I want you to be a part of God’s work and of my life. I hope that you will keep me in your prayers and let me know what you think about this (and use the chance to tell me how you are in the pre-addressed envelope or online at the following secure website ). I hope to be in touch with you soon so that I can give you more details about my trip. Thanks for reading through this and for any support that you can give me. I look forward to telling you all about the work that has been accomplished through your generosity.
With love,
Name, Address, Phone Number
Email Address

Financial Support

We welcome financial support for the 2009 MOT. This year we will need to raise at least $79,600 as a team in order for the trip to take place. The funds are used in a myriad of ways: airfare (even our coach tickets are expensive), meals, electricity, water, lodging, guard dogs, transportation, specific needs of Africa Christian Ministries, and medications such as antibiotics, antiparasitics, and other prescription medications.You can easily contribute in a couple of ways:

(1) Contact someone on the team and let them know you would like to support them. They will provide you with a letter about the trip, a donation form, and the specific details about who to make the check out to. These donations are tax-deductible if paid by check.

(2) Via the Web with you credit card at the Kensington Community Church website. The dropdown menu will allow you to designate the you are supporting for the trip.

(3) Via the Web with your credit card at the Africa Christian Ministries website. Please make sure to include that you are designating the funds for the 2009 MOT or for a specific team member.

We thank you for considering supporting us financially.

Don't Forget!

1st Official South Africa Meeting for the 2009 Team

7pm at the Tice Home

Don't forget to bring: 

$300 deposit to secure your spot

Birth certificate

Passport

'Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus

This past week I submitted my letter to my principal, Mr. M., for approval to have time off during the school year. As I delivered the letter to his office I said one last prayer -

"Dear Lord - if it be Your will that I have the privilege to serve in South Africa again Lord - I would be honored to do so. And Lord, please let there be no typos in my letter."

As I dropped off the letter, Mr. M. was on his way to give a tour to some visitors at the school. He proceeded to tell me that he had included that we "even have a teacher who travels to Africa" on the poster for Monday's 7th and 8th grade parent night. Could it be a sign that God had already answered my prayer?

Beside my deep desire to return to South Africa and the impeccable timing of the trip with my spring break, I felt like I was starting to hear God say, "Yes - It is My will." Then, tonight, I heard Him speak again. My dear friend, D, celebrated my birthday with me and she gave me a beautiful book titled "The Sings My Soul." The book has 150 of the world's greatest hymn stories. I was so excited because not only do I love hymns - I love the stories behind them. It is so great to have this resource and be able to tell these stories as a worship leader. Anyhow, I flipped the book to pages 210 &211 and the story of "Tis So Sweet to Trust in Jesus" (one of my fav's) was staring me straight in the face. The story behind this hymn originates with Louisa M. R. Stead; a woman who ended up living a life she hadn't quite expected. It was marked by unexpected turns, great sorrow, and the call to be a missionary in *surprise* South Africa.

God, I am trusting that You want me to serve again in the heart of Zululand.

Just to rest upon his promise; Just to know "Thus saith the Lord."

Last Year . . . This Year

I don't do it very often, but I find it a good practice to look back with a "forest" perspective and realize how God has shaped certain events and people for very specific times and places.

Last year my heart began to ache when I really realized that I wouldn't be able to physically make the trip to eSikhawini. It was not a possibility for me to take two weeks off of the normal school year. Looking back now I see that God had me right where He needed me.

Staying home meant . . .
1. Other talented folks could step up to new positions of leadership
2. God helped me practice being satisfied even in sorrow
3. God moved me to pray more often for others
4. God gave me time to help my friend Jenny prepare for her mission on the Africa Mercy Ship
5. I realized more and more the needs of my South African friends extend FAR beyond the time that I am there.

This year I am praying that God will return me to Africa this Easter - and that the 5 things staying home meant will be engraved on my heart. I hope to go with a new perpective.

Would you please join me in prayer - that my principal and superintendant give me the blessing to take 5 days off of school? Would you be so bold to pray that they allow me to take those 5 days off with pay - that is as "sick days" instead of "unpaid leave"?

Thank you - I'll keep you posted.
Tracy

Leaders September Update

The 2009 Medical Outreach Team Leaders had their first opportunity to start the ball rolling on the next trip coming in April. We set meeting dates and began praying about the folks that God is putting in place to minister in South Africa. We are praying that His glory be demonstrated through this next trip and that medical professionals and support people are launched into God's work of world-wide medical missions. We also are very excited that this next trip will include Easter again. All of the believers gather on the grounds of Grace Evangelical Church and truly celebrate Jesus' resurrection - and the life that He gave to us through HIS sacrifice. It is pure joy to partake in the celebration!

2009 MOT Calendar

Sunday, October 26th
(7:00 pm - Tice Home)
Informational Meeting

Friday, November 21st
(7:00 pm - Tice Home)
Mandatory Meeting
(1) Initial Deposit ($300)
(2) Your Passport
(3) Your Birth Certificate

Friday, December 12th
(7:00 pm - Tice Home)
Mandatory Meeting
Don't forget to bring:
(1) Your Passport
(2) Your Birth Certificate
(3) Completed Paperwork

Friday, January 9th
(7:00 pm - Tice Home)
Mandatory Meeting
Don't forget to bring:
(1) Your Binder
(2) Completed Paperwork

Friday, February 13th
(7:00 pm - Tice Home)
Mandatory Meeting
Don't forget to bring:
(1) Your Binder
(2) Any missing paperwork

Friday, March 27th
(7:00 pm - Tice Home)
Mandatory Meeting
Don't forget to bring:
(1) Your Binder
(2) Any missing paperwork

Medical Supply Packing Dates
Saturday February 28th (1-4 pm) - Kensington CC)
Saturday March 7th (2-5 pm) - Kensington CC)
Saturday March 21st (1-4pm) - Kensington CC)

Pack and Sort Meds/Supplies Click here for directions Bring a sharpie marker!

Final April Meeting
(date and time TBD)
Mandatory

South Africa Medical Outreach
Friday, April 3rd - Sunday April 19th

2009 Mission Dates Announced

April 3, 2009 - April 19, 2009

Goodbye Zulu Friends - Until Next Year.

Sawubona!!

It is late. Very late. The sound of Zulu voices is ringing in all our ears. Our dear friends Sabelo, Mcopseni and Manzini joined us tonight for dinner and devotions after our Friday night Bible Study. Adding their voices, along with Mercy and Isaiah and Zomusa's to our singing was an incredible blessing for our last night here in Zulu land. Honestly, words cannot describe the awesome wonder of our experience here these past two weeks. Watching God move in and through these amazing people, hearing God speak to us each in a unique and special way, feeling God's presence around us in every beautiful smile we've seen, warm embrace we've shared and gorgeous day we've been here.

Today was nearly a perfect end - if there can be such a thing to an experience such as this. We awoke late and enjoyed a rather lazy morning. Katie and Cathy prepared another delicious breakfast for us as we prepared for our last day. The docs headed to one of the local government hospitals to visit with the doctors here who have supported our trips. The rest of us sorted the remaining meds to leave for Mercy and the people here - and for our next trip (April 2009!!!!). We all headed to the Indian Ocean around noon for one last chance to soak up some African sun. The water was perfect (no sharks!) and we all played some volleyball and soccer and strolled the shore. We headed home early afternoon to finish sorting the remaining meds and prepare for Bible study and dinner. Rev Rob led another great devotion for us all on the Beatitudes - a wonderful reminder of how God calls us to live and what blessings we receive if we live that way. We finished the night with a delicious dinner and very moving devotions. We laughed and sang and prayed. And even had a bit of a dance party in the living room!

There is no way to describe how this trip has touched each one of us. We will be hard pressed to put into words all that we have seen and learned and shared here. And while we have missed you all a great deal, we are saddened to be leaving this place and unsure of how to process all that God has shown us.

Thank you, all, for your prayers and your support. We know that God has been moving powerfully here, holding us in His hands, and we know that your prayers have been heard. Please continue to pray as we board our plane tomorrow for the long journey home. Pray for safety, pray for peace, pray for continued joy amidst the saddness of leaving. Pray for team unity and encouragement to each other. Pray for those we are leaving behind here.

And, a gentle reminder - we should be arriving in Detroit on Sunday. There should be no customs as we SHOULD do that at Dulles. We look forward to seeing you there to greet us :)

God bless you. We love you. And we will see you all soon!!

The Medical Outreach Team

The Last Days

Thursday, April 24, 2008
Sawubona! nGiyanibingelela nonke egameni lenkosi yethu uJesu Cristu. Siyabonga kikulu. (Hello! We greet you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. We thank you very much. ) Today was another marvelous day. We were reminded by Sharon ’s morning devotion that God’s mercies are new every morning. He loves us and has given us the ministry of reconciliation. We can first be reconciled to our Creator, but also through Christ we now can be reconciled one to another. And we were challenged about our own hearts, reminded that God forgives us in just the way we are willing and able to forgive others. Today was our last of the 5 clinics. We went back to Empembeni (the roads were only slightly less awful than yesterday) to find 75 people waiting for us at 8am. We saw 130 adults in the morning then 80 kids from the ACM school across the road. The pediatricians again enjoyed ending on a young note. God impressed upon our hearts again how wonderful these kids are, and how blessed we are with plenty in the States. Most of the kids complained of headaches and stomach aches. We know they all carry worms as a daily burden, but as we asked we learned how most went without lunch and many eat just one meal a day. Yet they were all so very happy to see us, to sing with us, to laugh with us, and to smile for us (and to wait all day to see us). We were reminded again that unless we become like such little children we will never enter God’s kingdom. We all came home tired yet refreshed. God has continued to do wonderful things among our team. Over the last 11 evening devotions we have heard a piece of each person’s life story through special verses and life tokens. We know the enemy prowls about seeking to destroy. We have heard about pain and suffering. And we have heard each person’s story of redemption, of how God has called each one by name and the healing and renewal that came when we chose to follow the voice of our shepherd. God is indeed our good shepherd, calling us each by name. He knows us and loves us and holds us in the palm of his hand. We know that he will be faithful to complete the good work he has begun in us. We have become quite a family in just these past two weeks. It has also been a joy to watch the team fall in love with KwaZulu- Natal and our Zulu brothers and sisters. We have heard just a small piece of Mercy and Isaiah’s story, times when they have “walked through the valley of the shadow of death” and how God has sustained them and blessed this incredible ministry. Now we can join with Sharon and call them Babawathu and Mamawathu (our father and our mother). And the ACM kids - the teenagers who have grown up in their ministry, who attend their schools and after school programs and vacation Bible schools and churches, the kids they have fed and clothed and loved and labored for - they started as our interpreters last week and now we can call them friends. Our hearts will ache for them as we go. We now know what it means for them to have jobs, to get food, to have a hope and a future. The last child we treated lost her mother to HIV/AIDS this past year, has HIV herself, and we gave medicines knowing she will die soon, too soon. We know we are powerless to stop this. But she has been taken in by one of the ACM staff and while she is still with us we know she will be loved with the same incredible love our Father has shown unto us. Our hearts and minds are turning to home. Please continue to pray for us as we do for you! There have been many tears of joy and I know there are more to come. Love to all!

The 2008 Medical Outreach Team

P.S. Some of us wanted to be sure to mention that our flight is still scheduled to arrive in Detroit around 10am, Sunday April 27

The Monday Report

Sawbona from eSikhawini!!

After two days of heavy rain, God blessed us with some sunshine and many bumpy roads. This morning we had a wonderful breakfast of French toast and bacon (cooked by Jamie, Sharon, and Cathy). Soon after breakfast we met our first challenges of the day; showering and driving. With no water pressure, sponge baths were the only option, along with brushing teeth in the kitchen sink. Next, we assisted our fearless drivers (Andy, Rev. Rob, and Sharon) in getting the vans out of the soggy parking area and onto the muddy roads of eSikhawini. We then loaded up the vans and headed to Richard’s Bay and the Indian Ocean .

The weather has been incredibly stormy the past few days and we drove through intermittent rain showers. The winds were blowing pretty strongly but we were able to enjoy an hour of sunshine at the beach. Norberta, Danette and Kate took a long walk along the ocean’s shore. Amita, Prasanth and Brian were playing keep away from the waves that were crashing into the shore because of the storms. Brian actually got caught! Susan, Brooke, Allie and Jill were looking for sea shells and writing messages in the sand. Sharon enjoyed some quite time watching the waves. Kristi, Jamie, Cathy, Sarah, RevRob, Angie, Andy, and Hilda took a walk along the pier trying to avoid the sea spray and watching the crabs enjoy the sun.

We then headed to the mall in Richard’s Bay – a nearby resort town. Part of the team enjoyed some delicious South African pizza (some with fresh avocado, some with spinach and black olive), others enjoyed some sandwiches and burgers. We visited a Christian book store owned by a friend of the Mafus and visited some other stores to pick up a Zulu/English dictionary for the Mafu’s home. We were a little late getting home due to “rush hour” traffic and a beautiful double rainbow we saw from the parking lot. Amita found a fresh almond tree and found out it’s difficult to break the shell to get to the almond. She’s just too strong!!!

We are now home after a wonderful devotion time and a hilarious and touching poetry “slam”. We are all healthy and pray that we continue to stay healthy so we can finish the work we are here to do. We have a clinic tomorrow and will be leaving here at 6:30 a.m. Mercy expects to see 250 people at the gate when we arrive! We have our final clinic on Thursday and are excited to see more of our new Zulu friends.

Thank you for praying for us and sending us good thoughts. We miss you and will see you all soon!

Amita (and Katie and Sarah) for the team J

The Sunday Report

We greet you in the name of Jesus Christ!!

It began to rain yesterday keeping us in the house and away from Richard’s Bay after church, however we were granted some much needed rest and relaxation, as of the members of the team have come down with a couple of bugs. Nothing serious but we could use prayer for healing to get us through the week The rain continued on and off through the night and in to this morning, although some of us prayed for the rain to cease we can not be too upset that it did not; as we were informed last week we are in the midst of the worst drought for this region in 60 years.

The great need for medical attention among the Zulu people was revealed today, despite the pouring rain, soaking wet Zulu men, women and children were waiting in line for the clinic to open early this morning. Adjustments were made – quick wake up calls and breakfast, tee-shirts and skirts turned into sweatshirts, pants, hats and blankets, the patient waiting room moved inside, coffee and tea provided, and layout adjustments were made to the clinic. There was not one complaint made about the rain (you may be thinking but they don’t know Zulu…you’re right we don’t but you could tell by their faces, excitement and gratitude were shown). Every once in a while we would look up and our eyes caught what it was like outside…pouring rain, a lot of mud and no cars but people continued to come. The people visiting the clinic all walked but who knows how far. Our team went right to work with muc h joy and excitement to serve the neighborhood. Things ran smoothly - patients were seen, meds were given, eye exams completed, and prayer was provided. The prayer team got the chance to pray with many of the clinic visitors, to get to know their desires, large and small. Many simply asked for better health and blessing upon their family, others are in need of jobs, are mourning the loss of their loved ones and yet they are peaceful, gracious and smile with joy beyond our understanding.

Medications that we think of as “staples” – Ibuprofen, Tylenol, Cold and Cough syrup, Multi-Vitamins, and candy - these patients have never had before. There are clinics in the townships for the ill but they are not guaranteed the standard of care in which we are accustom to or would expect in the US . The professional clinics are too expensive for patients to attend so they go to the free clinics where they have a better chance of being diagnosed but there is not greater opportunity to obtain medications. The government has provided buildings for clinics in rural areas but the launch of the facilities are hindered secondary to political issues amongst the government and the traditional people. It is a crazy cycle. Fortunately God’s ways are higher then ours and He continues to send missionaries (Us) into areas like Gubethuka.

Last evening, the team had the unexpected privilege to attend church with and later welcome into the Mafu’s home the Zulu Induna and family (one rank below the tribal chief) he continues to give us his welcoming and blessings to serve the people later this week and for future mission trips. So for us the political strife has enhanced the heart felt desire to serve the people with the utmost respect, care, and love and provide the most excellent medications. Last night Rev. Rob taught that we (as individuals or a team) are apart of something bigger. It’s bigger than just 21 of us, (roll the credits…
Brian, Jamie, Allie, Prasanth, Brooke, Cathy, Amita, Katie, Danette, Kate, Kristie, Susan, Sharon, Sarah, Hilda, Norberta, Jill, Andy, Rev Rob, Megan, Angela, and a special thanks to the Mafus and our ACM staff translators); it is helping Grace Evangelical Church, ACM (Africa Christian Ministries), the local community, the country of South Africa, and the World. Most of all; it is a part of God’s plan to show love and to draw people nearer to Him. We are fulfilling a purpose.

The team together rocked Grace Evangelical Church refreshed by the Michigan like weather (awe a taste of home). We miss you all and are praying for you.

Luggage Buddies,
Angela and Megan.

The Sunday Report - April 20, 2008

Greeting in the Name of Our Lord and Savior,

What an awesome day of praise and worship. Since the team was scheduled to lead Sunday School at the two churches, after dinner last night Kate went over the lesson which was to be based on the Parable of the Mustard Seed. The mustard seed is representation of our faith. With God’s continued love and cultivation we can grow into a huge tree of faith. This tree offers us protection, shelter and hope. To demonstrate the story we had props that allowed the children to experience the story in its fullness. We thank Angela as she was our mustard seed and grew into a large tree….being that she is 6’3” she was an amazing as the large tree. The children watched in awe as Angela grew from a ball on the floor to a large tree…she even taped a felt tree to her chest. The children then colored birds to place on the tree, which they loved….way to go Jaime, Cathy, Megan, Sarah, Dr. Tice, Rev Rob and Angela for all your hard work to make sure that we were prepared for the children. Sarah and Dr Tice taught the same lesson at the Esikhawini Church and they did an equally wonderful job.

We then had worship at both churches filled with awesome singing by the church members and choir….it was singing, acapella at times that could out do any American Idol …we also had praise and worship, more singing, praying and testimonies from individual church members thanking GOD for all that he has done………everyone rejoiced. The goodness of GOD is universal and no matter the language, heartfelt praise is a sweet sweet aroma to our Lord and Savior. Rev Rob then preached a uplifting message on God’s love. His text was I John 4: 7-12. God first and foremost gave his Son, Jesus Christ so that we could be reconciled to himself. Secondly, his love continually allows him to forgive our sins and lastly, we are to continu e to spread God’s love by loving one another. Service then ended with us singing and fellowshipping with one another African style. We start with Baba and Mama Mafu and shake hands with each and every person in attendance. It is beautiful to connect with brothers and sisters of Christ.

As we walked back from church, drizzles of rain covered our path…..we had plans to go to the beach today but nature’s will is stronger than ours….we had a thunder storm with plenty of rain….it offered us a wonderful evening of fellowship and rest as we had nothing better to do than stay inside. Cathy, Jaime, Andy, Angela, Kate, Jill, Prasanth and Sarah all played a mean game of hearts and speed solitaire. Brooke, Allie, Norberts, Kristi, Brian, Susan, Danette and Katie all took a siesta……aka as a Sunday afternoon nap……….while Megan, Prasanth, Hilda made dinner- spaghetti, green beans and garlic bread. Megan made a vegetarian spaghetti sauce that was yummy and ran the kitchen like a true chef. Another excellent meal that dashes all hope of any of us losing wei ght on this trip. For dessert, Katie made brownies.mmmmJ We thank Angela, Jaime and Andy for after dinner clean-up. Image cleaning up after 24 people it is a full time job.

The end of the day filled with God’s blessings. To finish the night Kate and Rev Rob shared their verses and life tokens. Kate thanking God for the blessings of her two daughters and how important it is for us all to continue to be good stewards over the earth God has given us. Rev Rob talking about his journey to be “called” to a lifetime of ministry as a pastor. His ministry focus has been on love and how we are to continually share the good news of the kingdom of heaven. That as God’s ambassadors we should strive to become more like Jesus. We thank God for his laboring as a shepherd over God’s people for 40+ years

So, we end the night here as we have an adult/ Family Clinic tomorrow, the last in Esikhawini. We prayed for those that will come to be seen, for our physical strength and that God will heal. We are sure it will be a wonderful day. We just must remember it is his work we do and not our own. Touching lives and being touched.

Many blessings, Norberta and Hilda with the teamJ

The Saturday Report – Day 9 April 19

Saubona -

Sianibingelela nonke egameni lenkosi yethu Jesu Cristu(we greet you in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ)

Today was a good day. It was the first morning we didn’t have the scheduled power outage between 7-8 am and we must say the coffee drinkers were praising God! (Andy still doesn’t understand the coffee thing. It remains a consistent 80s by day and it hovers around 80 in the guys’ room at night. Who needs a hot cup of coffee?!) A good start to the day was a very good thing because today was also our second clinic, the one just for the roughly 600 kids who participate in the ACM youth ministry. We set out at 7:30 with four vans and a truck to pick up as many kids as we could. We passed twenty kids already at the gate to the church as we headed out. Abou t 70 kids were waiting at one of the schools and they all erupted in cheers and “Hallo!” as we arrived. Brooke’s van won the “most kids” contest as she squeezed 18 inside. Andy took second with 17. The ride back was a lot of fun with kids singing, yelling, and hanging out of all the windows. The vans went out several more times to bring the kids in. Considering the ministry works with approximately 600 local children, we did a pretty good job to see 178 today. They serenaded us with several Zulu songs before the clinic started. What a joy to see the impact of this ministry. As we watched Isaiah hugging kids and Mercy laughing wi th them, we realized again what a critical ministry they have in this area. With so many dying from AIDS, Baba and Mama Mafu are the only parents some of these kids will ever know. And through this ministry they are first loved as dear children, then given the hope of a future. Over the past five years, several team members have seen the teens grow into small group leaders and through ACM support even attend college. The Mafus tell us that many adults are hearing about Jesus for the first time because the children bring their stories and their songs and their infectious laughter back to the homes! (We discovered that a semester of college here costs 700 Rand – or about $100 – so one year costs less than $200! Now that we’v e met the teens in the ACM ministry, many of us felt our hearts burning with a desire to help!)

Overall the clinic went very well. Things went better here at the church compared to the controlled chaos of the mountain top. Cathy helped keep the pharmacy running smoothly. Sarah, Jill, and Megan already had a good system in place. Rev Rob, Allie, and Brian continued work with the glasses, and commented on how there were way fewer cataract patients today!!! Brian continues to improve his excellent Zulu, I’m sure he will be filling in as a translator before long! Kate prayed and “played” triage nurse (drawing faces on their fingers as the kids waited. Angela prayed, played, and handed out meds. Katie, Susan, Amita, and Kristi irrigated ears and debrided toes, doing an excellent job as usual. Norberta was in charge of the ever popular deworming/Vitamin station. (We noticed that very few kids mentioned worms as a complaint, but I guess if you live with them your whole life it isn’t something you necessary complain about to the “winter doctors”.)

Our pediatric doctors Sharon, Brooke, and Andy, were finally in their element and thoroughly enjoyed the day of all kids, no adults! Hilda, Danette, Jamie, Prasanth did an excellent job with medicine on a smaller scale. On a bittersweet note, so many kids did evoke a little homesickness in many of us.

While most kids were pretty healthy other than the typical case of worms, a couple kids really broke our hearts. Jamie saw one with huge swollen lymph nodes in his neck and severe ringworm of the scalp. Apparently he’s had it quite a while and the kids tease him a lot. We had a pediatric grand rounds, gathering everyone to help sort it out. With Sharon ’s guidance, our best guess was fungal, with tuberculosis and lymphoma being possibilities as well. Lacking blood tests and means to do a biopsy, we did the best we could, giving a long course of an antif ungal, an antibiotic, and pain meds. He ended up coming back later asking for traditional healing marks – open slashes over the enlarged nodes – to “let out the evil vapors”. He said he hoped the marks would make the kids stop teasing him L. What a great opportunity for the power of prayer, a kid that probably only God can heal, and we prayed God would heal him. Another child had a severe whole body rash that again puzzled the crew (Jamie’s patient again). Lots of impetigo, some ear infections, headach es, allergies, and a few with asthma. It was a good day and we think we were able to help most of the kids. We were all mightily impressed with how well-behaved 178 kids can be. NO parents to chaperone, but they all sat quietly and listened attentively. None of us could imagine this ever happening back home, even with ADD meds!

We are looking forward to tomorrow. We are scheduled to lead Sunday School at the two churches. Then a trip to the Indian Ocean for fun, relaxation, and some swimming for the very brave. We remain incredibly well-fed. Norberta and Hilda are wonderful cooks! Last night Hilda baked endless loaves of banana bread. Prasanth added delicious brownies. Andy has gladly traded his night to cook for an extra turn at the dishes!

We have three clinics remaining so we continue to request your prayers. The team is really coming together. It’s a real blessing to see how God is at work in each of our lives.

Siyabonga kakulu (thank you very much) for all your support.
Sala hathle (stay well).

Jamie and Andy for the team.

The Friday Report – Day 8 April 18

Saubonna -

A day truly God’s gift – warm and sunny with soft breezes that helped ease us into a day of counting and packaging medications for the upcoming clinics. After yesterday’s detailed personalized report, today’s recounting of our continuing adventure in faith and trust will be general in application. We were up a bit later, and breakfasted at an individual pace. Sharon gathered us for an extended morning devotional focused on the consistent Biblical theme of God’s love – each of us was assigned verses out of a hat that we then read as a way through a Biblical journey highlighting various ways and circumstances God’s love is present in our lives – and through our lives. We then prayed our way into the day of sorting.

Sort, count, pack. Sort, count, pack. Until 2 for lunch. Then the same routine until 5:30 – with counting by some out in the delightful sun and shade of the Church yard – the rest to the sound of Prashan’s music, interspersed with some great music from Amita – who knew their hearts and ear for songs of faith. Norberta, Hilda, Sharon , and Mercy did a major shopping run. A good day of accomplishment – all meds fully counted!

Bible Study at 6 – focused by Rev Rob (translated by our Zulu friend Gungu) on God – God’s mercy, grace, and forgiveness – as Sharon pointed out – mercy, not getting what we deserve, grace, getting what we don’t deserve, and forgiveness, forgiving and forgetting, and giving us ever new ways in which to praise and please God.

We prayed with and for each other. Mercy closed and we walked home under a starlit nearly full moon sky. Hilda and Norberta spread a meal of choices that more than satisfied.

Devotions with songs new and old led by Andy, and a look into Brian’s heart through his gift of guitar and song writing and singing. Life Bible verses and life tokens shared by Hilda and Susan that moved us by the depth of their individual faith journeys – capped a very good day with a further deepened awareness of God’s presence and graceful loving work among us.

Encouraged to sleep early by the 6:30 breakfast call, we look forward to the clinic tomorrow focused on the children in the ACM program.

Thank you for your constant upholding of us in prayer. How good our God has been.Faithfully for the Team – In His Name - Rev. Rob and the Team

uNkulunkulu muhle! (God is SO good!)

From high atop the mountain of Ingwavuma , we greet you in the name of the Lord, your friends, Brooke and Susan (buddies)…
As we drove up the mountain and enjoyed the amazing beauty of God’s creation, we saw many people walking, but to where we were uncertain.
We arrived at the clinic where many were already awaiting our clinic, their once yearly visit to the medical team. We quickly unpacked and set up our clinic in an empty concrete building with an earthen foundation. Prayers and introductions were made by Sharon with Mercy translating in Zulu to those who had waited hours already for our arrival. Laughs went round the Zulu crowd as Susan introduced herself. We were all perplexed and thought maybe it was her blonde hair that was such a big hit, but learned quickly that her name sounds like the Zulu word for “passing gas.”
Clinic began, with a line up of beautiful Zulu people, many with warm smiles, others showing pain and despair. Our ACM helpers called them in by name and they were greeted by our nursing team of kind-hearted Katie (who is not the charge nurse), soft-spoken and loving Amita (who was at one point speaking her native language, not realizing she was with Zulus and Americans only), charismatic Kristi (with a world of knowledge from past mission trips and contagious laugh, helped keep us going), and Swedish Susan Mary (who wanted to open an ICU bed and couldn’t keep out of the docs rooms to assist them in any way possible). Our nursing team reached out with a warm touch and welcoming “Sawubona!” while checking blood pressures and triaging our visitors. Outside their partitioned off rooms made of white sheets with only a cot, medical supplies, and a chair, doctors awaited the first patients who were accompanied by an ACM translator. Compassionate Kate (who is changing the world one person at a time), our director of operations, would gently escort the patients one by one to the “best” doctors. At that moment, our busy and exhausting yet fulfilling day began!
After the doctors’ evaluation, the patients were then directed either to the eyeglass factory or to the pharmacy. The vision team was run by radiant Reverend Robertson (our umfundisi and baba) and assisted by brawny Brian (with his many talents), and fantastic and fabulous Allie. It was amazing to experience that first patient who was given the gift of sight. Allie’s smile was as precious as the patients, and she received many kisses from our Zulu friends. Brian has amazed us by his already nearly native Zulu tongue. In the pharmacy all patients received vitamins and mebendazole, as well as their prescribed medications. Pharmacy support staff consisted of creative Cathy (who exudes love and peace), our fearless leader, stupendous Sarah (without whom we would not have made it on the first airplane), amazing Megan (who will be starting a physical therapy clinic on next year’s trip), and awesome Angela (who is requesting more dietary consults). What a joy it was to see God’s fulfillment of our mission when we received Zulu hugs and many thanks.
Before exiting our clinic, each patient received prayer by our prayer team of generous Jill (our Safari tour guide) and no nonsense Norberta (the Queen of Hush). Thanks to the two of them, they helped keep organization and order throughout the clinic.
The doctors were a consulting team of different specialties. In the pediatric corner, were Andy, Brooke, and Prasanth. Enjoyable Andy (the jokester and team minstral who most enjoys naps and eating) initially got stuck with the DO’s. Breath-taking Brooke (who has been driving Zulu-style: a manual van on the LEFT side of the road) and peppy Prasanth (who keeps the group grinning) attempted OMT on their adult patients while God answered Brooke’s prayers for guidance in caring for the adult Zulu population. From the OB/GYN department, gentle Jamie (who can shop like a rock star and get things done), caring Cathy, and our delightful Danette (nurse midwife extraordinaire), were ready to deliver any Zulu baby at any moment’s time.&n bsp; Humble Hilda, our family practice physician, was able to easily manage all patients of any age or medical problem (THANK YOU, Hilda!). Of course, super-hero Sharon (our lead doctor, who began this clinic many years ago) has amazing skills in all aspects of the Zulu culture. Without Sharon and Mercy, this clinic would not exist for the Zulu people of the mountain. It is so refreshing and inspiring to see them work together with God and as dearest friends to serve these incredible people!
As the sun went down, lanterns and pen lights came out, not to mention the bats that only our medical team feared, but brought tears of laughter to the Zulus, as they saw our frantic state as we were not prepared for a bat bite! Through the windows, you could see the children playing soccer with peels of laughter, even as they hadn’t and perhaps wouldn’t eat dinner that night, not to mention their long walk home.
After our final patient was cared for and prayed for, we reflected upon our ability to communicate without knowing the same language, as radiant smiles and a soft touch are universal. Only God could provide such an expression of love!
Exiting Ingwavuma Medical Clinic, most of us silent, only then realized the mountain we were driving down was the same mountain our friends had been climbing up all day to see us. We pray that we may return to serve God and his people again next year, or even sooner, as He wills.
Siakuthanda, siabonga! (We LOVE you, we thank you!)
Brooke, Susan, and the team!!!

Team Greeting (Monday)

Sawubona!

Today was another beautiful, yet exhausting day under the warm South African sun. We worked hard all day packing and sorting medicines to prepare for our first clinic tomorrow! We’ll be trekking nearly three hours up a mountain to Inguavuma to care for the sick and tired, who faithfully await our arrival.

Our group spent the greater part of today tirelessly counting more Ibuprofen, vitamins, etc. then you could shake a stick at…and we’ve only just begun! However, all our diligence paid off as we enjoyed an inspiring Bible study and fabulous meal. Reverend Robertson led Bible study in the eSikhawini church, where we partook in traditional Zulu hymns and took prayer requests from all members of our group. Then off to a fantastic dinner prepared by Hilda, Norberta, Angela, and Bob (a visitor from the states).

Some fun aspects of our day included: Prasanth getting reamed out by a house full of early risers for making Folgers coffee as opposed to Starbucks and Sarah and Sharon blowing the electricity in the middle of cooking dinner. Never a dull moment in the Mafu’s home!

I’d like to ask all of you to keep us in your prayers this evening. Tomorrow will be trying physically, emotionally, and spiritually as we serve the weak and weary. The least and last of Inguavuma are the first and foremost in God’s heart. Also, I just wanted to remind you all that we will be at the game park Tuesday and Wednesday night, so your next message won’t arrive until Thursday. So no panic attacks…

Until our next email…Siakuthanda! (We Love You!)

All my love,
Allie & The Team

Team Greeting (Sunday)

Sunday, April 13, 2008

Hello to all family, friends and supporters!

What a day! Our first full day in South Africa started with Sunday service with the Mafu’s at both Empembeni and eSikhawini. The African singing and music was filled with spirit and quite inspirational. We were all touched by a special prayer offered for Sharon Tice’s father and mother…..they truly consider her a member of their family.

In the afternoon we began the process of counting/sorting medications to be used in the clinics which will start on Tuesday. Mercy and her daughter prepared a filling meal to end our day. We listened to the Mafu’s story of how their ministry came to be along with a cultural overview of this area, including the daily challenges they face in serving their people in the name of Jesus. Their personal sacrifice is amazing to see and experience!

Everyone is healthy, although recovering from jet lag. Prasanth happened to see some cut ‘puppies’ out the van window riding from church this morning……only to be told they were goats!!! We are all learning about the wildlife here!

Tomorrow starts our first full day of the work of the mission…. Lots of medication sorting and preparing to treat the many people we expect to see at our first clinic.

Please continue to pray for us as we do for you!

Love to all!

Danette & Cathy & and the Team

They've Made It to eSikhawini!

Sawubona!!

We are here! Safe and sound. God was at work in a HUGE way today. Well – I guess it’s the past two days at this point!

At present, everyone is safely at home in the Mafus house. We are lying (some of us sleeping) in our beds after having eaten a delicious meal of lasagna, salad and chocolate chip cookies. EVERY bag made it here safely. EVERY person made it here in good spirits and good health. We know that every step of our safe journey was because of the grace and faithfulness of God, and we thank you for keeping us in your prayers.

I’m off to bed. We will definitely write more tomorrow after church with our new Zulu friends and an afternoon/evening of packing meds.

We love you – we miss you – we are praying for you – and we thank you for praying for us.

In Him,
Sarah (for the team)

This is the Day!

Hello!

Or, as they say in Zulu - sawubona! This is the day that the Lord has made. And I am rejoicing and very glad to be in it. Because today I fly to South Africa. Hard to believe it's finally here. So many packing days. So many meds. So many hours planning and preparing. But, we are about to take off. And so I ask for your prayers. Prayers for safe travel during the next two days. Prayers for the arrival of all of our bags - intact!! Prayers for team unity among the 21 of us only just now starting to get to know each other. Prayers for those we leave behind who are anxious about our leaving. Prayers for joy as we serve our brothers and sisters in South Africa.

I hope to be able to e-mail by Saturday evening to let you know we are there safe and sound. But if I can't, don't worry. Sometimes there's just no power over there :) We'll be in touch as often as we can.

Thank you, again, for your support of this trip. We are excited to see what God has in store for us all!

In Him,
Sarah

No expectations

I am a planner, I like to think things out and know what to expect.
I believe in the instance of preparing for South Africa I could have driven my self crazy with what to anticipate only to be let down. God did not let this happen, he put my mind to rest and my feet in motion. I had no idea what to expect to see and to learn, no amount of information could have prepared me for what I did experience.

I was astounded by the love that we received when we arrived, and by the hospitality of the Mafu’s. I truly felt comfortable and at home in their house and with the team. In addition to being a planner I am a person who likes my space, let me just say God breaks down all barriers that we inflict upon our selves.

Amidst the travel and preparation for clinics it took me several days to realize that I was on another continent. I remember the moment this sunk we were walking from the house to the church across the street for evening devotions, I looked up at the dark blanket sprinkled with stars and realized that this is a different sky then what is at home. I was in Africa.

God uses our dreams and I remember telling the team in the very beginning that I had dreamt of Africa but did not know that God would use this dream of mine to do His will. This realization was so profound to me and facilitated my trust and reliance in God to provide for the safety and necessities on this trip. With out Him I never would have made it. Proverbs 3: 5-6 says to not rely on your self but to acknowledge God in all you do. This is something going to South Africa has taught me and that I continue to need reminding of. What is great is, this is an example of God’s continued teaching as result of going and doing in His name.

My favorite moment, if you know me you would expect me to say watching the elephant tear a branch from a tree, which was amazing however God placed me where I again am not the most comfortable. There was a young child; less then three that one of the guys on the team was trying to administer mebendozle (worm medication) to, this child was not receptive. We realized that this was going to take more then one person and a packet of fruity flavor drink to pass this med. As he cradled the little child in his strong arms we were able to coax the med down. The scene was picturesque.

So you might ask your self what I did experience that was so unexpected. The amount of people who were waiting for us at the clinics, the joy and hope of the people in the community and the ACM staff despite their living situations, the openness and reception of God’s love and care. These things are humbling and greater then inspiring to me, I hope that I will be able to hang on to the smiles and the warmth that the people shared, for it is truly of God, for the rest of my life.

Message from Megan O.
2007 & 2008 Medical Missions Team

Still Collecting Medicine

Please help us fill these bins with life saving, pain thwarting, symptom relieving medicine? Here's a list of what we need.

This past Saturday we continued sorting through medicine, cataloging it, and packing it into the bins for transport to South Africa. It is amazing how God uses the people of our community to touch the lives of the Zulu people and that our efforts here leave an indelible mark on the trajectory of others' lives.Team members prepare Ziploc bags for distributing medication.

Team members work with the new eyeglass apparatus.

Joy! say it again Joy!

The best way to convey the emotions that were surging through us all is South Africa, is to share a few of the entries from the journal I kept during our time there. God worked in so many ways, but the token I gleaned was joy. Joy, from the Zulu people and joy that the God we serve here is the same God they worship there. He is the same no matter where you choose to meet with him, and that is a beautiful thought.

Monday 6-25-07, eSikhawini, South Africa
It was awesome waking up on a Monday morning and finding myself in a beautiful country! No J.O.B. today! We had another clinic and, man, was it busy. There were so many more sick children here than in any of the other places we've been so far. I held a baby girl to try and make her eat. She was two months old and was the size of a newborn. She was so dehydrated. She would have fit perfectly in my carry on to bring home, but the rest of the team advised against it. We gave her mother some medicine for her baby, but only enough for tonight. The hope is she will be back tomorrow so we can follow up and we will give her the rest then. Working at an OB-GYN and seeing all of the couples struggling with infertility, I couldn't help but be a little angry that a 16 year old could have a baby and not know how to take care of it. Today's verse in my journal is Romans 8:28,

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose."

Tuesday 6-26-07, eSikhawini, South Africa
Today was by far the most difficult day for me. Yesterday we had to turn people away, but told them to come back today. They came back, but we still turned away 125 people, mostly women and children. It was so emotional to see young women with babies on their backs, walking back to the other side of the gate. Mercy went out and picked up two vans full of "her kids" that were sick and in need of our care. The young girl with the dehydrated little girl came back! Praise God, her baby looks ten times better. She left with the medicine and the confidence she did a good job. Sharon did a great job of encouraging her. I hate that we're leaving soon, it feels like we just got here. It is raining tonight for the first time, it feels like the weather is reflecting the way I feel. I can only pray God will let me come back next year. Today's journal verse is Proverbs 15:30,

"A cheerful look brings joy to the heart, and good news gives health to the bones."

Praise God we are going back! God answers prayer and I am so excited to see how he will challenge us.

"I will say of the Lord, "He is my refuge and my fortress, my God, in him will I trust." Psalm 91:2

A message from Kristi
2007 & 2008 Medical Outreach Team

Yes, Without a Doubt, Yes

"Lift your eyes and look to the heavens: Who created all these? He who brings out the starry host one by one, and calls them each by name. Because of his great power and mighty strength, not one of them is
missing." Isaiah 40: 26

I chose this quote last year, because it reminded me that God wasn't surprised that I went to serve His people of eSikhawini, South Africa. He knew each and every person, who was of greatest need, and directed us to share God's love with them. That was His divine purpose for us, and it was the mission in which we accomplished. I didn't go to eSikhawini for personal reasons, it was just where I knew that God needed me to be.

While preparing for our trip, a co-worker once asked, "Do you really think that you can make a difference in their lives, in just two weeks?" My answer was, "Yes, absolutely, without a doubt, yes." We might be the only medical professionals that these people see for a year, or ever. But God just needs their attention of a moment, to share His eternal love. And on this mission, I believe that our team was the vessel for carrying such a message of God's love.

Once in eSikhawini, South Africa, I found it to be a truly remarkable place; they have seen war, terror, famine, drought, and death, yet they still lift their eyes to heaven, and raise their voices singing songs of praise to God. Truth be told, we have so much more to learn from the people of eSikhawini. It is for these reasons, that eSikhawini will always hold a special place in my heart, and it is why I am returning in 2008.

For every person who has made the statement, "Some day I want to do something like that." I encourage you to, "Get up and Go!" Don't just sit around waiting for the opportunities to come to you, go out and find where God needs you to be. Trust me, He won't be surprised at where you end up. He will be grateful that your there serving His people.

-Truly-
Katie
Medical Outreach Team 2007 & 2008
eSikhawini, South Africa

Medicine Needed

The 2008 Medical Outreach Team is in need of the following items: Would you please help us?

Dropoff can be arranged at Genesis the Church, Kensington Community Church, by mail to Africa Christian Ministries, or to a local home of one of our team members. Contact Sarah for information on how to do so.


1. Acetaminophen (e.g. Tylenol)
2. Ibuprofen (e.g. Motrin/Advil)
3. Benadryl/Claritin
4. Robutussin or cough medicine
5. Antibiotic ointment (e.g. Neosporin)
6. Antifungal Creams (e.g. Lotrimin/Lamisil/Clotrimazole)
7. Hydrocortisone (1%) Cream (e.g. Cortaid)
8. Multi-vitamins/Iron (Adult and Children)
9. Imodium
10. Tums
11. Vaginal Creams (e.g. Vagisil/Monistat)
12. Pepcid/Zantac
13. Reading Glasses (+1.5 or +2.0)
14. Toothbrushes/small toothpastes
15. Wheelchairs and Walkers in good condition
16. Ziploc Brand Freezer Bags (Gallon, Quart, Sandwich, and Snack sizes)
bolded items represent our biggest current needs!

All medications should be unopened.
Tablets are preferred.
Generics are accepted.
Adult and Children's medications are needed.
Expiration date should be May 2008 and beyond

We will accept any brand of medication, however, we have found that Costco, Target, and CVS have provided the number of pills stated on the bottles and they have the most consistent packaging.

Compassion International Uganda