This month has provided us with several memories which have enriched our experience in Kenya. Here are a few….
“Kiswahili Lessons Continue” Our first 12 week-term of Kiswahili lessons ended and we can confidently speak Kiswahili at a 4th grade level. So if you would like a Kiswahili tutor for your 8 year old, you are more than welcome to drop them off at our home. (To be impressed by Shelvis’ Kiswahili click here).
“Rainfall” The rainy season finally came after several months of drought and famine throughout most of Kenya. The people breathed a collective sigh of relief when the first showers came. The rain began while I was attending a friend’s outdoor wedding. The showers were a double blessing because rainfall on a wedding day is considered good luck in Kenya. Please continue to pray that the rain continues so that Kenya’s food supply and agricultural economy can receive a much needed boost.
“Good Preaching”
Nancy preached her first sermon in Kenya….and my wife brought the house down! She preached at Loresho Presbyterian Church of East Africa (where I am currently serving) at the request of the Senior Pastor and Presbytery Moderator, Rev. Elias Agola. Her sermon spoke of the need for Christians to live for the benefit of others so that we might fully live as Christ desires. For those of you who do not know, my wife can preeeeaach!
“Birthdays” Many members of my family celebrated birthdays this month. My Grandmother, who is the eldest member of my family, turned 90 and I was told that the entire town of Pelham, Georgia came out for the celebration. Unfortunately, I was unable to attend, but I think the Kenyan scarf that I sent made an appearance. My mother’s birthday was equally impressive as she continues her remarkable recovery from her recent diagnosis of blood cancer. She is doing VERY WELL and we anticipate her bone marrow transplant this summer will lead to a long period of remission. Please keep her in your prayers.
My birthday was also a bit of a milestone because I turned the BIG 3-0. Nancy and I celebrated by going bowling with several Kenyan and American friends. Most of the people who attended the party were bowling for the very first time since bowling is uncommon in this region. The evening was filled with lots of laughs and gutter balls. Special Thanks for the outpouring of love sent by so many of you on my birthday. Your kind wishes, shared memories, e-mails, e-cards, and phone calls made my birthday unforgettable. I am truly blessed because of your presence in my life. Asante Sana (Thank you).
Posted on March 31st, 2009 by Shelvis
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We rode down the mountain encouraged by the beauty, hospitality, and faith of the people we met.

















