It’s often a challenge for a missionary to stay well connected with their ministry support team. Newsletters are essential but can only do so much. Social media and blogs work better for some than for others. Then there is the ultimate connection tool- a real live visit to the field where the stories can be in context with the sights,sounds and smells to bring them to life- where you can literally walk a mile (or more J) in a missionary’s shoes.
We were blessed by such a visit from Pastor Mike and Deidre Plett and their two boys last month. They came to see and smell and touch Africa. They got a feel for our team – full of young families with an excitement for what they are doing. They caught a glimpse of our vision – ten years of dreams layed out on a white board. They walked out to the bus stop to experience local transportion. They walked to our office to see where we do our office hours. They walked to our church for the early morning Bible Study. They walked to get some shirts made by a local tailor. They walked to buy some groceries. They walked out to see where Austin did his school ministry with guys in drug rehab. Of course all the walking was interrupted by many Swahili greetings, a few of which they learned. I think they’ll need new shoes when they get back to Canada because of all the walking they did.
Now they are back in Canada telling stories about our time together. Granted, it was just a week, but it should go a long ways toward helping our other friends in Landmark, Manitoba know what our life and ministry is like. We are trusting that their unique perspective will really help us stay connected with that part of our support team. Thanks Mike and Deidre!
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