Dear Family and Friends,

Today is a national holiday and the House of Moses where we are living for the next five months is quiet. This is one of the first times I have had any time to write. Life in Africa is challenging to say the least. Poverty and death are increasing, and so are the numbers of children who need loving Christian care and an education. We are blessed to have been called to serve the Lord here.

Last week I celebrated my 59th birthday by going to lunch at a Chinese restaurant and then buying petunias for the flower beds in front of the House of Moses. As the afternoon passed the clouds built up and just as the sun was going down it rained. It is extremely unusual for Zambia to have rain at this time of year, but it happened. Immediately after the rain ended swarms for flying ants came out of nowhere. Our friends here tell us they are from the anthills that are disturbed by the rain. In the rainy season these ants are large and after rain the people gather, roast and eat them--quite a treat, I understand. Last night's ants were too small to eat, but they still caused quite a stir, especially in our side of the house as Sandra frantically sprayed Doom, stomping from one foot to the other, squashing ants! After the ants settled down we barbecued chicken outside and the moon was full, dancing in and out of the clouds. It was a gorgeous African fall night. The whole day made for a most memorable birthday.

Bit by bit we are assessing our crisis homes and our schools. Getting around to visit everyone is a challenge as there are very few phones to make appointments, and often when you do arrive you find no one is around. However, we did manage to travel to the teacher training college where we have 40 of our volunteers training to sit for their government certification exams in November. The grant given to us by the Mustard Seed Foundation has made it possible for these young men and women to have a career. They are excited and proud. :-)

Last night around 5PM, we heard a thundering crash. The 1,000 gallon water tank that supplies water to the House of Moses came crashing down to the ground. Thank God no one was hurt, and thank God that some friends have stepped forward to have it replaced. The work crew is here at the moment trying to get water to the house before sun-down. We are able to get some water from a tap in the backyard that is supplied by city water, but it is on and off and must be carried into the house in buckets. With so many babies, it takes lots of water.

We are expecting Holly and Dee, our Change 4 Children staff members to arrive next week. Their first time to Africa, both are very excited to see first hand what they talk about in presenting the C4C program to churches. We are praying for safe travel, and a new anointing in their work.

Prayer needs:
1. We are up-grading our standards and are replacing two guards and ten care-givers at the homes. Pray that each new worker will be chosen and anointed for these important positions.

2. Robert, an active 3 year old at the Bill and Bette Bryant home has been abandoned and needs an adoptive family.

3. Increasing local church involvement in the Faith Works education program.

4.Pray that in this time of great need in Zambia our Lord may be lifted up and many will be drawn to Him.

Much Love and Many Blessings,
Sandra and Jennie