At a Glance: April 2013

Erica, Terry, Colin and Aaron in Kigali, Rwanda

This past week, Erica and I travelled to Rwanda with our team leader, Colin Godwin, and CBM Director of International Partnerships, Terry Smith. We had an encouraging time with the AEBR (our partner church), and with our colleagues the Bustin family. This has been a very full month in all areas of CBM's Ministry in Africa!

William and Mary in Nairobi, Kenya

Amid the challenges and difficulties faced in the CBM Muslim ministry in Kenya, this month we are celebrating some significant change as three of the twenty-four churches of the Garissa Church Fellowship have stepped forward to lead relief efforts in their community. Heavy flooding has caused the Tana River to break its banks, driving thousands of people from villages like Bukuyu. Canadian Baptist Ministries has provided resources for mosquito netting and supplies to help one hundred vulnerable families affected by the flooding. Seeing local churches demonstrating the love of Christ in word and deed is what this ministry is all about!

After our largest Farming God's Way conservation agriculture training, over 40 Garissa leaders are putting their new skills to the test as they work on improving food security in their community. Our project officer for the food security project, William Wako, not only celebrate the success of this ministry, but personally has had a lot to be thankful for as he and his fiancé, Mary, travelled to their home community of Moyale for the upcoming wedding. Please remember Will and Mary in your prayers as they gather with their families to begin their journey as husband and wife.

Erica with Bronwyn and Laura Lee Bustin

In Rwanda, our friends the Bustin family, are preparing for their daughter Bronwyn's completion of high school and beginning of University. Bronwyn will be returning to Canada in June in preparation for her first year of studies.

Terry and Bronwyn

Ahoy!

Tristan and his fellow pirate, Chris, taking a break from a dress rehearsal of the Pirates of Penzance, to roam the Spring Fling flea market at Rosslyn Academy. The High School musical will be presented this coming Thursday, Friday and Saturday at the school.

Erica with ACC&S Moderator, Dr. Julius Karanja

We have also had a great opportunity to meet with our team mates and church partners with Terry Smith during his recent visit. We are grateful for our fellow brothers and sisters in Christ with whom we serve with in Kenya and Rwanda. CBM has benefitted from a strategic network of partner churches throughout our region that have become more and more intentional with coming along side one another for the sake of the poor and vulnerable.

We are deeply thankful for the wisdom and perspective of leaders like Dr. Karanja who are reaching out to support sister denominations in times of challenge and growth.

Meeting today in Nairobi

Thank you for keeping us in your prayers!