On December 31, we travel once again to Hope Africa University (HAU). We have nearly completed our packing. Our luggage outbound consists mostly of instructional materials for the courses we will be teaching: Darlene--Physical Assessment and Diagnosis; Wayne--NT Theology, and Wesleyan Theology. We are also carrying a 20# 220-110 volt electrical converter for the Medical Skills lab at HAU.
We request your prayers for safe travel. Thursday afternoon, we fly from Rochester to Washington D.C. where we will meet up with Barbara Rose. From D.C. we fly overnight to London, spend New Year's Day there (in the Heathrow airport), and fly overnight again to Nairobi, Kenya. Arriving early morning January 2, we spend the morning there (in the airport) and at noon fly on to our final destination: Bujumbura, Burundi.
Blessings on you and yours in the New Year.
Monday, December 28, 2009
Monday, February 16, 2009
Our Safari to the Congo
We have just returned from a weekend in the Congo: what an adventure! Our “tour guides” were Randy and Alice Matthewson, long-time friends. Randy and Alice served for ten years (1986-1996) as full-time missionaries at the oldest Free Methodist mission in the Congo. In 1996, when civil war broke out, they had to escape for their lives. Now retired, they are back for 2-4 months at a time. Presently, they are helping the local people rebuild from the damages inflicted during the war.
The mission has a major hospital, and a school of Nursing at a village called Nundu. Alice, who is a nurse, was eager for us to visit the school and tour the hospital. We were impressed at the fine job they are doing at Nundu, with such meager resources.
The hospital at Nundu has no electricity, and for two years has been without water. While we were there, we expected to put in place the last valve to supply water to the hospital. But the valve Randy had purchased in Bujumbura broke…and so he is has to get another for the trip back this week.
Randy (who is an engineer) and his crew also have been at work restoring the church and finishing a building begun 15 years ago. It is a beautiful building which will seat 3,000. I preached there on Sunday morning: it was an unusual service orchestrated by God.
The General Conference of Congo is the largest in the FM Church, with 140,000 members. The people are very poor. The country is in worse shape than Burundi.
The road to Nundu, along beautiful Lake Tanganika, is incredibly bad. It took us four hours to go 25 miles. We had to cross five rivers without bridges. Fortunately, Randy has a four-wheel drive Land Rover.
Getting into the Congo also was quite an experience: it took us more than three hours…and that was with the advocacy of Congolese Free Methodists who went to the government offices on our behalf.
Along the road to Nundu, we encountered numerous “checkpoints,” most of them illegitimate. We had to bribe our way from point to point. The “soldiers” and “guards” wanted money. But we got through by giving them cookies, avocados, writing pens and reading glasses!
All in all, it was a great experience, not one we will soon forget. We are grateful to the Matthewsons for this opportunity to visit in the Congo: it gave us yet another perspective on missionary work. We are also grateful for the opportunity to meet some of our brothers and sisters in Christ: we met some of the finest people we ever expect to meet here on planet Earth.
As we conclude this visit to Africa, we are grateful to God for his many blessings.
The mission has a major hospital, and a school of Nursing at a village called Nundu. Alice, who is a nurse, was eager for us to visit the school and tour the hospital. We were impressed at the fine job they are doing at Nundu, with such meager resources.
The hospital at Nundu has no electricity, and for two years has been without water. While we were there, we expected to put in place the last valve to supply water to the hospital. But the valve Randy had purchased in Bujumbura broke…and so he is has to get another for the trip back this week.
Randy (who is an engineer) and his crew also have been at work restoring the church and finishing a building begun 15 years ago. It is a beautiful building which will seat 3,000. I preached there on Sunday morning: it was an unusual service orchestrated by God.
The General Conference of Congo is the largest in the FM Church, with 140,000 members. The people are very poor. The country is in worse shape than Burundi.
The road to Nundu, along beautiful Lake Tanganika, is incredibly bad. It took us four hours to go 25 miles. We had to cross five rivers without bridges. Fortunately, Randy has a four-wheel drive Land Rover.
Getting into the Congo also was quite an experience: it took us more than three hours…and that was with the advocacy of Congolese Free Methodists who went to the government offices on our behalf.
Along the road to Nundu, we encountered numerous “checkpoints,” most of them illegitimate. We had to bribe our way from point to point. The “soldiers” and “guards” wanted money. But we got through by giving them cookies, avocados, writing pens and reading glasses!
All in all, it was a great experience, not one we will soon forget. We are grateful to the Matthewsons for this opportunity to visit in the Congo: it gave us yet another perspective on missionary work. We are also grateful for the opportunity to meet some of our brothers and sisters in Christ: we met some of the finest people we ever expect to meet here on planet Earth.
As we conclude this visit to Africa, we are grateful to God for his many blessings.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Between Two Worlds
Today we moved into a second guest apartment next door (to make room for another couple who are returning for the semester). However, I am working at my computer in the first apartment (until they arrive tomorrow noon), where I have electric and printer hookups. So, for the moment, we are living between the two apartments!
It is reminder to me—and a metaphor—of our experience the past six weeks. We are Americans living in an African culture. We still have one foot in the world from which we come, and another in the world where we presently are living. So we are, as it were, living in two worlds!
And believe me, they are very different! We have learned a lot living here, and that includes learning a lot about ourselves. I know for certain that I do not have the personality temperament to be a full-time missionary!
God must have a good sense of humor to put me into the midst of a laid-back, disorganized, time-unconscious culture! Or, is he wanting to teach me something?
It is reminder to me—and a metaphor—of our experience the past six weeks. We are Americans living in an African culture. We still have one foot in the world from which we come, and another in the world where we presently are living. So we are, as it were, living in two worlds!
And believe me, they are very different! We have learned a lot living here, and that includes learning a lot about ourselves. I know for certain that I do not have the personality temperament to be a full-time missionary!
God must have a good sense of humor to put me into the midst of a laid-back, disorganized, time-unconscious culture! Or, is he wanting to teach me something?
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Winding Down
We have only a few days left here at HAU. This weekend, Friday – Monday, we will be in the Congo.
This afternoon, while Darlene is in class, I started moving into the apartment next door. (We are vacating this one for a couple who will be arriving on Thursday, to spend the entire semester here.) We will finish moving out tomorrow. We are going to pack some things in the process of this move: I have already laid out our suitcases in the second bedroom. So that makes it seem, even more so, that we finishing up here.
Darlene will be teaching two three-hour class sessions tomorrow, and then giving a special lecture in a third class. Moi…I set up a computer lab this morning! This evening I am going to set up and test a microscope (which had not been previously unpacked). I continue to hold individual conferences with various students and faculty here.
We are happy to report that our son Mark is home. Thank you for your prayers.
This afternoon, while Darlene is in class, I started moving into the apartment next door. (We are vacating this one for a couple who will be arriving on Thursday, to spend the entire semester here.) We will finish moving out tomorrow. We are going to pack some things in the process of this move: I have already laid out our suitcases in the second bedroom. So that makes it seem, even more so, that we finishing up here.
Darlene will be teaching two three-hour class sessions tomorrow, and then giving a special lecture in a third class. Moi…I set up a computer lab this morning! This evening I am going to set up and test a microscope (which had not been previously unpacked). I continue to hold individual conferences with various students and faculty here.
We are happy to report that our son Mark is home. Thank you for your prayers.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Quite a Weekend!
It’s been a few days since our last blog, and we have much to tell!
Friday evening (2-6-09) we were invited to the residence of the American ambassador for a party and concert. It was a small party of ca. 50 people, a high society affair with which we have little acquaintance. Before the concert, we were invited to the veranda for drinks. We had Schweppe’s tonic water, and (too many) peanuts! The concert was held in the garden, and featured traditional Burundian music. It was both interesting and very lovely. Afterward the concert, we were invited back to the veranda for more drinks! This time, a dozen white-uniformed waiters circulated through the crowd with successive kinds of hors-d’oeuvres, each better than those preceding. We had not had dinner before the concert, but we left stuffed! Before we left, we were given a private tour of (part of) the Ambassador’s residence, which featured a special exhibition of American and Burundian art.
Sunday (2-8-09) we traveled ca. 20 miles south of Bujumbura to a Free Methodist church. It was located in a beautiful countryside: bordered on one side by a steep mountain, and on the other by Lake Tanganika. Before the service, we were given a tour of the medical clinic provided by the church. The service began at 9 am, and included special numbers by nine choirs! But because I preached, we got out a little before noon. Then, we were served a delicious lunch, of goat meat, boiled potatoes, fried plantain, and beans. (Believe me, it was very good!) We took photos the whole time, totaling almost 300! I spent almost afternoon editing them.
This coming weekend, we are traveling to the Democratic Republic of Congo!
Friday evening (2-6-09) we were invited to the residence of the American ambassador for a party and concert. It was a small party of ca. 50 people, a high society affair with which we have little acquaintance. Before the concert, we were invited to the veranda for drinks. We had Schweppe’s tonic water, and (too many) peanuts! The concert was held in the garden, and featured traditional Burundian music. It was both interesting and very lovely. Afterward the concert, we were invited back to the veranda for more drinks! This time, a dozen white-uniformed waiters circulated through the crowd with successive kinds of hors-d’oeuvres, each better than those preceding. We had not had dinner before the concert, but we left stuffed! Before we left, we were given a private tour of (part of) the Ambassador’s residence, which featured a special exhibition of American and Burundian art.
Sunday (2-8-09) we traveled ca. 20 miles south of Bujumbura to a Free Methodist church. It was located in a beautiful countryside: bordered on one side by a steep mountain, and on the other by Lake Tanganika. Before the service, we were given a tour of the medical clinic provided by the church. The service began at 9 am, and included special numbers by nine choirs! But because I preached, we got out a little before noon. Then, we were served a delicious lunch, of goat meat, boiled potatoes, fried plantain, and beans. (Believe me, it was very good!) We took photos the whole time, totaling almost 300! I spent almost afternoon editing them.
This coming weekend, we are traveling to the Democratic Republic of Congo!
Friday, February 6, 2009
God's People
We have been preoccupied with personal matters the past couple of days. On December 21, 2008 (10 days before we left for Africa), our older son Mark suffered a second stroke, and this week (on Thursday, February 5, 2009) he underwent “full on” open-heart surgery. We thank all God’s people for their prayers. We are happy to report that the surgery was a success. Now we pray for his recovery.
This week, Darlene and I helped set up a Medical-Nursing library/conference/study room. This involved carrying a lot of big, heavy books up three flights of stairs, totaling 42 steps! We hope, before we leave, to see the completion of this project (we need mlore bookshelves). Next week, I am going to focus my attention on getting one computer lab functional (only three of the 15 computers “work”) and setting up another…working with various parts and pieces.
This morning we went to visit another clinic nearby the campus. It is a project of the Plymouth Brethren Church: we were quite impressed, most of all with the care-giving personnel. It was a well-run operation, providing medical services to 100+ patients per day.
This evening, by special invitation(!), we are going to the American Embassy for a concert.
This week, Darlene and I helped set up a Medical-Nursing library/conference/study room. This involved carrying a lot of big, heavy books up three flights of stairs, totaling 42 steps! We hope, before we leave, to see the completion of this project (we need mlore bookshelves). Next week, I am going to focus my attention on getting one computer lab functional (only three of the 15 computers “work”) and setting up another…working with various parts and pieces.
This morning we went to visit another clinic nearby the campus. It is a project of the Plymouth Brethren Church: we were quite impressed, most of all with the care-giving personnel. It was a well-run operation, providing medical services to 100+ patients per day.
This evening, by special invitation(!), we are going to the American Embassy for a concert.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Life is Different Here!
For the fourth day in a row, we wakened to no electricity. That means cold showers and warm coffee.
This fall, an electrician from the US installed in the guest apartments shower heads with an electric heating unit: the water is heated (only) as it passes through the shower head. The outgoing water is not exactly hot, but at least it is tolerably warm: Thank God for small blessings! We also have in the guest apartments units that look like office water cooler units, which provide us with instant hot water out of one spigot, and cold water out of another. (The 18 liter water jug I spoke of in an earlier blog sits upside down on top of this unit, and supplies the water by gravity feed.) This is one of true (and few) luxuries of life we enjoy here.
So, on those days when we awaken to electricity, it is possible to have a warm shower, and hot coffee! But, as I have said, for the last four days, we have to be content with cold showers and warm coffee!
This morning I serviced seven bicycles that were shipped over in the last container. Three more are missing parts, which if I can find here, I also will be able to repair. There was nothing very complicated to do, but without the right tools, simple tasks can become quite challenging! But when one has no alternatives, it is surprising (I am surprised myself!) how much one can do with a pair of pliers! Of course, I rather enjoy such challenges.
I have just had to interrupt this blog, to go around the apartment and close all the windows. There is a garbage pile behind the dormitory, and typically late every day they set it on fire. Sometimes, like today, that produces a lot of smoke…bad-smelling smoke.
As you can discern, life here is quite different!
This fall, an electrician from the US installed in the guest apartments shower heads with an electric heating unit: the water is heated (only) as it passes through the shower head. The outgoing water is not exactly hot, but at least it is tolerably warm: Thank God for small blessings! We also have in the guest apartments units that look like office water cooler units, which provide us with instant hot water out of one spigot, and cold water out of another. (The 18 liter water jug I spoke of in an earlier blog sits upside down on top of this unit, and supplies the water by gravity feed.) This is one of true (and few) luxuries of life we enjoy here.
So, on those days when we awaken to electricity, it is possible to have a warm shower, and hot coffee! But, as I have said, for the last four days, we have to be content with cold showers and warm coffee!
This morning I serviced seven bicycles that were shipped over in the last container. Three more are missing parts, which if I can find here, I also will be able to repair. There was nothing very complicated to do, but without the right tools, simple tasks can become quite challenging! But when one has no alternatives, it is surprising (I am surprised myself!) how much one can do with a pair of pliers! Of course, I rather enjoy such challenges.
I have just had to interrupt this blog, to go around the apartment and close all the windows. There is a garbage pile behind the dormitory, and typically late every day they set it on fire. Sometimes, like today, that produces a lot of smoke…bad-smelling smoke.
As you can discern, life here is quite different!
Monday, February 2, 2009
Beginning a New School Year
Today was a special day at HAU, the beginning of a new school year. The annual schedule of classes at HAU is about the same as in our colleges and universities in the US. The only difference is that here, south of the equator, the spring (rather than the fall) semester is the first in the “school year.” The second semester is the fall semester (as we would label it), with graduation in December. As in the US, HAU also has a January interterm of three weeks, and a summer session.
Hundreds of new students were put through New Student Orientation. A shorter version is now going on for students in the “evening” program.
This afternoon Darlene gave away another bicycle to a Nursing student. Then, we were invited to the home of the first student to whom she had given a bicycle. That was quite an experience! We walked the streets to his house (in the company of two students from HAU), taking in a thousand sights, sounds and smells en route. We were graciously served cokes and bananas by people who themselves had nothing to eat. While we there, various members of the household, adults and children, came by to meet and greet us, as well as neighbors, children and adults alike. It was a very communal experience
Hundreds of new students were put through New Student Orientation. A shorter version is now going on for students in the “evening” program.
This afternoon Darlene gave away another bicycle to a Nursing student. Then, we were invited to the home of the first student to whom she had given a bicycle. That was quite an experience! We walked the streets to his house (in the company of two students from HAU), taking in a thousand sights, sounds and smells en route. We were graciously served cokes and bananas by people who themselves had nothing to eat. While we there, various members of the household, adults and children, came by to meet and greet us, as well as neighbors, children and adults alike. It was a very communal experience
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Photo-taking in Africa!
I took my camera with me to church this morning, and had opportunity to capture a few more photos. Then, I spent two hours this Sunday afternoon, reviewing and editing the better photos in our collection.
Kathrine Page, curator of Art at Roberts Wesleyan College and Northeastern Seminary, wants to do a “documentary” exhibit of photos from our time here in Africa. I find that prospect rather intimidating! However, for my retirement, I was given a very nice new digital camera (instead of a gold watch!).
So far, my photo-taking has focused primarily on people: faces (young and old); hands, feet, etc. People at work; people in worship.
Other photos (not the best ones) document our work and experiences here. Darlene in the Nursing lab, examining patients, etc. The Vice-Rector lecturing in Wayne’s class; the students in discussion groups.
Before we left for Africa, my friends John Kells, director of Media Services at RWC, advised me: “Don’t be self-conscious about your picture-taking; just take lots of photos. You can look at them later, and pick out the best!”
Those who have viewed our better photos (Darlene has a second, older digital camera and is more creative than I) agree that a few of them are definitely “winners.” I just hope and pray we accumulate enough of these to merit an exhibition in Roberts Hall!
Kathrine Page, curator of Art at Roberts Wesleyan College and Northeastern Seminary, wants to do a “documentary” exhibit of photos from our time here in Africa. I find that prospect rather intimidating! However, for my retirement, I was given a very nice new digital camera (instead of a gold watch!).
So far, my photo-taking has focused primarily on people: faces (young and old); hands, feet, etc. People at work; people in worship.
Other photos (not the best ones) document our work and experiences here. Darlene in the Nursing lab, examining patients, etc. The Vice-Rector lecturing in Wayne’s class; the students in discussion groups.
Before we left for Africa, my friends John Kells, director of Media Services at RWC, advised me: “Don’t be self-conscious about your picture-taking; just take lots of photos. You can look at them later, and pick out the best!”
Those who have viewed our better photos (Darlene has a second, older digital camera and is more creative than I) agree that a few of them are definitely “winners.” I just hope and pray we accumulate enough of these to merit an exhibition in Roberts Hall!
Friday, January 30, 2009
It's Friday Again!
It’s Friday again, and the end of another week. Darlene’s course is going well. This morning, they did ears and eyes! I know, because while Darlene was lecturing I installed a sink into the cabinet in her Nursing lab, and cared for a number of other repairs.
I also got two bicycles ready for delivery to students, and Darlene gave one away this afternoon, to a needy Nursing student.
I am engaged in a process of evaluating the administration of HAU. This week I completed an assessment of Admissions, Registration and Record-keeping. This afternoon, I am interviewing the Vice-Rector (=VP) of Academics.
This afternoon, we also have to prepare more drinking water. This is not hard, but takes some time. A handyman from the US, who came to assist HAU set up the radio station this fall, installed a filter in one of the showers downstairs. So, we first fill four 5-liter plastic jugs with filtered water from that shower, and carry it up the three flights of stairs to our apartment (we do it in two trips, two jugs per trip!). Then we pour the water into pans (ca. two liters at a time) and use a Steripen to sterilize the water (via UV light). This device (which we purchased at Eastern Mountain Sports) is handheld and takes ca. one minute per liter. Including time for getting the water and pouring it back and forth, and into an 18-liter jug, the process takes ca. an hour. That supply of water, which we use only for drinking, lasts three days. (At 90 degrees—which it is today, and 90% humidity, we have to drink a lot of water!)
Tonight (Friday) is our weekly meal out by the lake with other missionaries in Burundi. (Last week, we were joined at the dinner table by three from Great Britain.) It is a time for venting the week’s frustrations, and celebrating another week in ministry in central Africa!
I also got two bicycles ready for delivery to students, and Darlene gave one away this afternoon, to a needy Nursing student.
I am engaged in a process of evaluating the administration of HAU. This week I completed an assessment of Admissions, Registration and Record-keeping. This afternoon, I am interviewing the Vice-Rector (=VP) of Academics.
This afternoon, we also have to prepare more drinking water. This is not hard, but takes some time. A handyman from the US, who came to assist HAU set up the radio station this fall, installed a filter in one of the showers downstairs. So, we first fill four 5-liter plastic jugs with filtered water from that shower, and carry it up the three flights of stairs to our apartment (we do it in two trips, two jugs per trip!). Then we pour the water into pans (ca. two liters at a time) and use a Steripen to sterilize the water (via UV light). This device (which we purchased at Eastern Mountain Sports) is handheld and takes ca. one minute per liter. Including time for getting the water and pouring it back and forth, and into an 18-liter jug, the process takes ca. an hour. That supply of water, which we use only for drinking, lasts three days. (At 90 degrees—which it is today, and 90% humidity, we have to drink a lot of water!)
Tonight (Friday) is our weekly meal out by the lake with other missionaries in Burundi. (Last week, we were joined at the dinner table by three from Great Britain.) It is a time for venting the week’s frustrations, and celebrating another week in ministry in central Africa!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
La vie est difficile ici!
Life is a bit more difficult here than at home.
Last evening, we lost power (and lights!) and decided to retire to bed early. Although the power did come on briefly during the night (I had to get up and turn off some lights), when we awoke this morning, again we had no power. Even more challenging was the fact that we were entering our second full day without water (and therefore without the possibility of taking a shower).
At 5:30 am this morning I took a big bucket and two large bottles, and went looking for a water source. I found a spigot with running water on the backside of the campus, and so we were able to take a sponge bath.
This is part of daily life here. Almost every day, we lose power and water: usually, only one at a time: sometimes, both simultaneously. The interruption in power or water can be as brief as 5-10 minutes; not infrequently, however, extends for several hours; occasionally (as was the case this week), it can last throughout an entire day or longer.
The power grid here is quite inadequate. Drops in voltage are common (and many times, quite noticeable). In the evenings and on weekends, when the power demand is higher, we lose power more frequently.
Last evening, we lost power (and lights!) and decided to retire to bed early. Although the power did come on briefly during the night (I had to get up and turn off some lights), when we awoke this morning, again we had no power. Even more challenging was the fact that we were entering our second full day without water (and therefore without the possibility of taking a shower).
At 5:30 am this morning I took a big bucket and two large bottles, and went looking for a water source. I found a spigot with running water on the backside of the campus, and so we were able to take a sponge bath.
This is part of daily life here. Almost every day, we lose power and water: usually, only one at a time: sometimes, both simultaneously. The interruption in power or water can be as brief as 5-10 minutes; not infrequently, however, extends for several hours; occasionally (as was the case this week), it can last throughout an entire day or longer.
The power grid here is quite inadequate. Drops in voltage are common (and many times, quite noticeable). In the evenings and on weekends, when the power demand is higher, we lose power more frequently.
Monday, January 26, 2009
All in a Day's Work
Today, I helped with moving the library books into the new Academic building.
I worked one end of the chain, in the old library. My assignment was to put the books into numbered card box boxes, keeping them in order. Student and staff workers then carried them across campus to the new library, where several of the librarians were putting them onto the new shelves. Then the empty boxes would be brought back to me.
During the wait times, I pulled all the (metal) shelves and brackets off the frames. As soon as I had finished removing all the books from one section, maintenance workers took apart the frames (as they would not fit through the doors assembled). Then the frame parts and shelves were carried to the new building, reassembled, and the shelves replaced. We got about one-third of the books moved today. So we have a least two more days to go.
This morning Darlene began a second section of her 3-week Nursing lab course in Physical Assessment. She said the first class session went better than with the first section 3 weeks ago: both she and the students were better prepared. They even did remarkably better on the pre-test, as they had been informed about the questions by the previous group of students (that is part of the culture here).
I worked one end of the chain, in the old library. My assignment was to put the books into numbered card box boxes, keeping them in order. Student and staff workers then carried them across campus to the new library, where several of the librarians were putting them onto the new shelves. Then the empty boxes would be brought back to me.
During the wait times, I pulled all the (metal) shelves and brackets off the frames. As soon as I had finished removing all the books from one section, maintenance workers took apart the frames (as they would not fit through the doors assembled). Then the frame parts and shelves were carried to the new building, reassembled, and the shelves replaced. We got about one-third of the books moved today. So we have a least two more days to go.
This morning Darlene began a second section of her 3-week Nursing lab course in Physical Assessment. She said the first class session went better than with the first section 3 weeks ago: both she and the students were better prepared. They even did remarkably better on the pre-test, as they had been informed about the questions by the previous group of students (that is part of the culture here).
Sunday, January 25, 2009
Good, Fresh Food!
We eat well here. At our Friday evening dinner out, Darlene and I had fish on skewers (they called it a brochette here), avec garnie (with fries and a small salad of tomatoes and onions on a leaf of lettuce). The fish brochette was absolutely delicious. Last evening we shared dinner with the Hughes: the entree was a noodle dish Darlene had concocted; Bob added corn grown in his garden; and Laurie home-baked biscuits and peanut butter cookies. I contributed a good appetite!
For our noon meal this Sunday, Darlene and I had a soup she had made with garden-fresh beans, squash, tomatoes, spinach, carrots and onions. We regularly have fresh pineapple, papaya and/or mango for desert.
Except for our Friday dinner out, we have not had meat, except Darlene brought dried meats which she uses to add to various dishes. In place of meat, here the menu regularly includes rice or beans, or rice and beans! We also use cheese in place of meat, although it is comparatively expensive.
Yesterday, I checked out our expenditures to date (at the half-way point), counted out the money we have on hand, both Burundi francs and US dollars. We have been spending ca. $30 per week on groceries. That’s less than $1 per meal!
For our noon meal this Sunday, Darlene and I had a soup she had made with garden-fresh beans, squash, tomatoes, spinach, carrots and onions. We regularly have fresh pineapple, papaya and/or mango for desert.
Except for our Friday dinner out, we have not had meat, except Darlene brought dried meats which she uses to add to various dishes. In place of meat, here the menu regularly includes rice or beans, or rice and beans! We also use cheese in place of meat, although it is comparatively expensive.
Yesterday, I checked out our expenditures to date (at the half-way point), counted out the money we have on hand, both Burundi francs and US dollars. We have been spending ca. $30 per week on groceries. That’s less than $1 per meal!
Friday, January 23, 2009
Le paysage Burundi est beau!
1-22-09
Today, we made up for the day we “lost” this week. Our trip to Kubuye was FANTASTIC! The countryside of Burundi is quite mountainous and absolutely beautiful. And all along the roadside we observed a steady stream of people walking, dressed in bright colors, and scores of bicycles being pushed, loaded with all kinds of goods. I took about 10,000 photos in my mind, and 300 with my camera.
I’ll write more about the day in a later blog. Right now, I’m beat!
10-23-09
TGIF! We administered our final exams today. So it’s a red letter day. We look forward--in a few hours--to the customary Friday evening dinner out with the other missionaries here in Bujumbura.
I want to add a few words about our trip to Kibuye.
Within a 10 minute drive from the campus, one leaves Bujumbura, and begins a long, steep climb into the mountains. The road is paved, and in quite good condition by African standards. But it is mountainous the entire four-hour trip to Kubuye, and the road is windy.
The views across the countryside range from “beautiful” to “spectacular.” Many of the hillsides are farmed. The many crops grown here include: rice, beans, coffee, tea, palm trees (for palm oil), bananas, papaya, mangoes, avocados, corn, as well as various garden vegetables and common fruits.
All along the roadside, one sees people of all ages walking, usually barefoot and carrying goods, usually on their heads. In addition to the crops I have named, their loads include: timbers, grass, water, and charcoal.
There are comparatively few cars and trucks on the road. The primary “vehicle” (and there are more pedestrians than vehicles, by far) is the bicycle. Occasionally one sees the bicycle used for transportation (often with two or more persons on board). But it is more often used as a “beast of burden.” The loaded bicycle is then pushed. Some of the loads must exceed 200# (and some of the hills are very steep).
A constant stream of people and bicycles line both sides of, and intrude onto, the roadway. Our driver uses the horn, as much or more than the gas and brake pedals, in negotiating passage of our Toyota van through “the (foot) traffic.”
What a fascinating experience!
Today, we made up for the day we “lost” this week. Our trip to Kubuye was FANTASTIC! The countryside of Burundi is quite mountainous and absolutely beautiful. And all along the roadside we observed a steady stream of people walking, dressed in bright colors, and scores of bicycles being pushed, loaded with all kinds of goods. I took about 10,000 photos in my mind, and 300 with my camera.
I’ll write more about the day in a later blog. Right now, I’m beat!
10-23-09
TGIF! We administered our final exams today. So it’s a red letter day. We look forward--in a few hours--to the customary Friday evening dinner out with the other missionaries here in Bujumbura.
I want to add a few words about our trip to Kibuye.
Within a 10 minute drive from the campus, one leaves Bujumbura, and begins a long, steep climb into the mountains. The road is paved, and in quite good condition by African standards. But it is mountainous the entire four-hour trip to Kubuye, and the road is windy.
The views across the countryside range from “beautiful” to “spectacular.” Many of the hillsides are farmed. The many crops grown here include: rice, beans, coffee, tea, palm trees (for palm oil), bananas, papaya, mangoes, avocados, corn, as well as various garden vegetables and common fruits.
All along the roadside, one sees people of all ages walking, usually barefoot and carrying goods, usually on their heads. In addition to the crops I have named, their loads include: timbers, grass, water, and charcoal.
There are comparatively few cars and trucks on the road. The primary “vehicle” (and there are more pedestrians than vehicles, by far) is the bicycle. Occasionally one sees the bicycle used for transportation (often with two or more persons on board). But it is more often used as a “beast of burden.” The loaded bicycle is then pushed. Some of the loads must exceed 200# (and some of the hills are very steep).
A constant stream of people and bicycles line both sides of, and intrude onto, the roadway. Our driver uses the horn, as much or more than the gas and brake pedals, in negotiating passage of our Toyota van through “the (foot) traffic.”
What a fascinating experience!
Wednesday, January 21, 2009
One Day "Lost"!
Imagine that: I “lost” a whole day! Actually, that is good news, as I have now finished all the required preparations for my two courses.
Tomorrow is “exam prep” day and we have no classes. We are being taken “up country” to the FM mission station at Kibuye (which I described in an earlier blog). Barb has not been out of Bujumbura, and she is leaving for the USA on Sunday, so it was a good time to do this day trip.
Last evening, we were invited to Bishop Elie’s home. We watched, via satellite TV, the inauguration ceremonies on CNN. During the program (the swearing in took place at 7 pm local time here), we were served dinner, “TV-style.” It was a memorable occasion for us all.
Tomorrow is “exam prep” day and we have no classes. We are being taken “up country” to the FM mission station at Kibuye (which I described in an earlier blog). Barb has not been out of Bujumbura, and she is leaving for the USA on Sunday, so it was a good time to do this day trip.
Last evening, we were invited to Bishop Elie’s home. We watched, via satellite TV, the inauguration ceremonies on CNN. During the program (the swearing in took place at 7 pm local time here), we were served dinner, “TV-style.” It was a memorable occasion for us all.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Inauguration Day
1-20-09
It is 3:30 pm, and I have finished my classes for the day. Barb and Darlene have gone out this afternoon, to do some grocery shopping. This evening, we are going to Bishop Elie’s home for dinner and to watch the inauguration ceremonies on CNN via cable television. Darlene initiated these arrangements, and we are all looking forward to them.
I have been working almost non-stop over the weekend and through the day, preparing for my classes. It has been quite a challenge, just to keep one-half step ahead of my students in the Systematics Theology course. But now, I am nearly finished: I have only one more set of Group Discussion questions to write, which I plan to do this evening.
We continue to enjoy good health, and we are grateful. This weekend did present us with one challenge: we were without electricity for long periods of time. We went to bed in the dark last night, and although power came on for a brief time during the night, when we woke this morning it was off again. I was concerned that I might not be able to print off my lecture, nor two handouts I had prepared. But then, just before I had to head off to class, the power was restored…so all was well.
Just now, in the middle of the afternoon, it is only half-light, as the sky is covered with clouds and it is raining. Usually we get hard, brief rains here; this is soft, sustained rain (much like in the Pacific Northwest, where we grew up). We enjoy the weather, except “c’est tres chaud!” (it is too hot!). Although a little cooler right now (because of the clouds), probably ca. 80F, the humidity is very high, approaching 100% (that’s why it is raining).
We pray all is well with you. Thanks for remembering us.
It is 3:30 pm, and I have finished my classes for the day. Barb and Darlene have gone out this afternoon, to do some grocery shopping. This evening, we are going to Bishop Elie’s home for dinner and to watch the inauguration ceremonies on CNN via cable television. Darlene initiated these arrangements, and we are all looking forward to them.
I have been working almost non-stop over the weekend and through the day, preparing for my classes. It has been quite a challenge, just to keep one-half step ahead of my students in the Systematics Theology course. But now, I am nearly finished: I have only one more set of Group Discussion questions to write, which I plan to do this evening.
We continue to enjoy good health, and we are grateful. This weekend did present us with one challenge: we were without electricity for long periods of time. We went to bed in the dark last night, and although power came on for a brief time during the night, when we woke this morning it was off again. I was concerned that I might not be able to print off my lecture, nor two handouts I had prepared. But then, just before I had to head off to class, the power was restored…so all was well.
Just now, in the middle of the afternoon, it is only half-light, as the sky is covered with clouds and it is raining. Usually we get hard, brief rains here; this is soft, sustained rain (much like in the Pacific Northwest, where we grew up). We enjoy the weather, except “c’est tres chaud!” (it is too hot!). Although a little cooler right now (because of the clouds), probably ca. 80F, the humidity is very high, approaching 100% (that’s why it is raining).
We pray all is well with you. Thanks for remembering us.
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Our Connexion
1-18-09
The e-mail device I am using is a CDMA data modem made in China. It is simple to install and use, and works wonderfully well. The connection is via cell phone. We bought a card for $8 US two weeks ago, and we still have not run out of minutes.
I do have techniques for “saving” minutes. After initializing the device, I hit the Connect button, and then the Browser button. I have it set up to make use of MS Internet Explorer automatically and go all the way into my e-mail account at Northeastern Seminary (nes). All I have to do is enter my password, and voila! my e-mail begins loading. All of this takes about 1 minute!
I then pick out the e-mail I want to read, open each message and immediately minimize it; do the same for the others in the list, then minimize Internet Explorer and hit the Disconnect button.
I read all the e-mail messages off-line. Then I prepare in a Word document all my responses, as well as any messages I want to initiate. I also write this blog off-line in a Word document (as I am doing now). I minimize these docs, and have them “at the ready.”
Then I Connect again. Once connected, I restore in order each minimized e-mail to full screen from the bottom bar. Using the control keys, I copy my message from Word and paste it at the top of each e-mai1-18-09
The e-mail device I am using is a CDMA data modem made in China. It is simple to install and use, and works wonderfully well. The connection is via cell phone. We bought a card for $8 US two weeks ago, and we still have not run out of minutes.
I do have techniques for “saving” minutes. After initializing the device, I hit the Connect button, and then the Browser button. I have it set up to make use of MS Internet Explorer automatically and go all the way into my e-mail account at Northeastern Seminary (nes). All I have to do is enter my password, and voila! my e-mail begins loading. All of this takes about 1 minute!
I then pick out the e-mail I want to read, open each message and immediately minimize it; do the same for the others in the list, then minimize Internet Explorer and hit the Disconnect button.
I read all the e-mail messages off-line. Then I prepare in a Word document all my responses, as well as any messages I want to initiate. I also write this blog off-line in a Word document (as I am doing now). I minimize these docs, and have them “at the ready.”
Then I Connect again. Once connected, I restore in order each minimized e-mail to full screen from the bottom bar. Using the control keys, I copy my message from Word and paste it at the top of each e-mail. Then I Send off the first message, and open the next. When finished with my e-mail….
I open BlogSpot from my list of Favorites in Internet Explorer. Here the interface of BlogSpot is different than in the US. I have to go through a couple of layers to get to the New Post section. Once there, I copy and paste my blog, and post it. Once I quit BlogSpot, I again hit the Disconnect button.
So it all quite efficient, and does not use many minutes.
There is one limitation: the connection can not handle large attachments or photos. Even smaller ones take “forever” to upload or download.
l. Then I Send off the first message, and open the next. When finished with my e-mail….
I open BlogSpot from my list of Favorites in Internet Explorer. Here the interface of BlogSpot is different than in the US. I have to go through a couple of layers to get to the New Post section. Once there, I copy and paste my blog, and post it. Once I quit BlogSpot, I again hit the Disconnect button.
So it all quite efficient, and does not use many minutes.
There is one limitation: the connection can not handle large attachments or photos. Even smaller ones take “forever” to upload or download.
The e-mail device I am using is a CDMA data modem made in China. It is simple to install and use, and works wonderfully well. The connection is via cell phone. We bought a card for $8 US two weeks ago, and we still have not run out of minutes.
I do have techniques for “saving” minutes. After initializing the device, I hit the Connect button, and then the Browser button. I have it set up to make use of MS Internet Explorer automatically and go all the way into my e-mail account at Northeastern Seminary (nes). All I have to do is enter my password, and voila! my e-mail begins loading. All of this takes about 1 minute!
I then pick out the e-mail I want to read, open each message and immediately minimize it; do the same for the others in the list, then minimize Internet Explorer and hit the Disconnect button.
I read all the e-mail messages off-line. Then I prepare in a Word document all my responses, as well as any messages I want to initiate. I also write this blog off-line in a Word document (as I am doing now). I minimize these docs, and have them “at the ready.”
Then I Connect again. Once connected, I restore in order each minimized e-mail to full screen from the bottom bar. Using the control keys, I copy my message from Word and paste it at the top of each e-mai1-18-09
The e-mail device I am using is a CDMA data modem made in China. It is simple to install and use, and works wonderfully well. The connection is via cell phone. We bought a card for $8 US two weeks ago, and we still have not run out of minutes.
I do have techniques for “saving” minutes. After initializing the device, I hit the Connect button, and then the Browser button. I have it set up to make use of MS Internet Explorer automatically and go all the way into my e-mail account at Northeastern Seminary (nes). All I have to do is enter my password, and voila! my e-mail begins loading. All of this takes about 1 minute!
I then pick out the e-mail I want to read, open each message and immediately minimize it; do the same for the others in the list, then minimize Internet Explorer and hit the Disconnect button.
I read all the e-mail messages off-line. Then I prepare in a Word document all my responses, as well as any messages I want to initiate. I also write this blog off-line in a Word document (as I am doing now). I minimize these docs, and have them “at the ready.”
Then I Connect again. Once connected, I restore in order each minimized e-mail to full screen from the bottom bar. Using the control keys, I copy my message from Word and paste it at the top of each e-mail. Then I Send off the first message, and open the next. When finished with my e-mail….
I open BlogSpot from my list of Favorites in Internet Explorer. Here the interface of BlogSpot is different than in the US. I have to go through a couple of layers to get to the New Post section. Once there, I copy and paste my blog, and post it. Once I quit BlogSpot, I again hit the Disconnect button.
So it all quite efficient, and does not use many minutes.
There is one limitation: the connection can not handle large attachments or photos. Even smaller ones take “forever” to upload or download.
l. Then I Send off the first message, and open the next. When finished with my e-mail….
I open BlogSpot from my list of Favorites in Internet Explorer. Here the interface of BlogSpot is different than in the US. I have to go through a couple of layers to get to the New Post section. Once there, I copy and paste my blog, and post it. Once I quit BlogSpot, I again hit the Disconnect button.
So it all quite efficient, and does not use many minutes.
There is one limitation: the connection can not handle large attachments or photos. Even smaller ones take “forever” to upload or download.
Saturday, January 17, 2009
Le Week-end
It’s Saturday noon, and we are glad for “le week-end.” All three of us have been busy this morning grading papers, writing quizzes, etc. Our 3-week courses end on Friday, and I have just finished writing the final exams for my two courses.
Last evening, we went out to dinner with Bob and Laurie Hughes and Randy and Alice Matthewson. It was Alice’s birthday, and Laurie had baked a cake; Alice said it was the first birthday cake she had had in more than 50 years. We all had a gala time.
For our main entrée, Darlene and I had the “Mukeke avec garnié.” The Mukeke (a Kurundi name) is a local fish. It is cooked whole over an open fire. From head to tail, it stretches across a big platter. Although very tasty it is messy to eat, as one has to remove the head and tail and then lay open the fish to remove the bony spine. “Avec garnié” (which is French) means that an entrée comes with French fries (simply called frités here) and a little “salade” (sliced tomatoes and lettuce). Such a meal cost 7,000 francs (= $6 US).
During dinner, we laid plans for our last weekend in Africa to travel with the Matthewsons into the Congo (on the other side of Lake Tanganika) to visit the FM mission station at Nundu. There is a hospital and Nursing school at Nundi, as well as a school and church.
On Thursday of this coming week (which is a “study day” for students to prepare for their final exams on Friday), the three of us are traveling “upcountry” here in Burundi to the FM mission station at Kubuye. This will be Barb’s first visit to Kubuye. Darlene and I visited last year, so this will be a return trip, but we are very much looking forward to it. Like at Nundi, there is a hospital and clinic there, as well as a school and church. The FM church also has a significant feeding program at Kubuye.
Last evening, we went out to dinner with Bob and Laurie Hughes and Randy and Alice Matthewson. It was Alice’s birthday, and Laurie had baked a cake; Alice said it was the first birthday cake she had had in more than 50 years. We all had a gala time.
For our main entrée, Darlene and I had the “Mukeke avec garnié.” The Mukeke (a Kurundi name) is a local fish. It is cooked whole over an open fire. From head to tail, it stretches across a big platter. Although very tasty it is messy to eat, as one has to remove the head and tail and then lay open the fish to remove the bony spine. “Avec garnié” (which is French) means that an entrée comes with French fries (simply called frités here) and a little “salade” (sliced tomatoes and lettuce). Such a meal cost 7,000 francs (= $6 US).
During dinner, we laid plans for our last weekend in Africa to travel with the Matthewsons into the Congo (on the other side of Lake Tanganika) to visit the FM mission station at Nundu. There is a hospital and Nursing school at Nundi, as well as a school and church.
On Thursday of this coming week (which is a “study day” for students to prepare for their final exams on Friday), the three of us are traveling “upcountry” here in Burundi to the FM mission station at Kubuye. This will be Barb’s first visit to Kubuye. Darlene and I visited last year, so this will be a return trip, but we are very much looking forward to it. Like at Nundi, there is a hospital and clinic there, as well as a school and church. The FM church also has a significant feeding program at Kubuye.
Friday, January 16, 2009
TGIF!
1-16-09
We are grateful for the weekend, after a busy week of hard work.
I am taking a little time this Friday afternoon, to see if I can figure out how to upload pictures to this blog site. I have resized some of our photos in smaller pixels, to see if that will work. If you see photos, you will know that it has worked; if not, I have failed once again.
We are tired, but contented. The work here is very satisfying. Thanks for your continued prayers for us.
We are grateful for the weekend, after a busy week of hard work.
I am taking a little time this Friday afternoon, to see if I can figure out how to upload pictures to this blog site. I have resized some of our photos in smaller pixels, to see if that will work. If you see photos, you will know that it has worked; if not, I have failed once again.
We are tired, but contented. The work here is very satisfying. Thanks for your continued prayers for us.
Thursday, January 15, 2009
No New News
1-15-09
We have no new news to report. Our classes are going well. Darlene is making good progress on the Nursing lab. She now has some cabinets in place, and today got the medical equipment in order and put away.
I think we all are working too hard. We barely have a spare moment. I got up and worked for 3.5 hours in the middle of last night, to prepare for my classes today. I may have to do the same tonight.
We are looking forward to the week-end. VISA missionaries Randy and Alice Matthewson (from Warm Beach) are supposed to be arriving tomorrow from the Congo. It’s Alice’s birthday. So we are planning to go out to dinner and celebrate with them, Bob and Laurie Hughes, etc. Barb and Darlene are going downtown to the market on Saturday.
Blessings.
We have no new news to report. Our classes are going well. Darlene is making good progress on the Nursing lab. She now has some cabinets in place, and today got the medical equipment in order and put away.
I think we all are working too hard. We barely have a spare moment. I got up and worked for 3.5 hours in the middle of last night, to prepare for my classes today. I may have to do the same tonight.
We are looking forward to the week-end. VISA missionaries Randy and Alice Matthewson (from Warm Beach) are supposed to be arriving tomorrow from the Congo. It’s Alice’s birthday. So we are planning to go out to dinner and celebrate with them, Bob and Laurie Hughes, etc. Barb and Darlene are going downtown to the market on Saturday.
Blessings.
Tuesday, January 13, 2009
Monday, 1-12-09
After classes today, we were taken downtown…to care for several items. Darlene and I had “passport photos” taken, to submit with the applications for extending our visas into February. We also exchanged our empty propane tank for a full tank. (Our stovetop burns propane fuel.)
We also stopped by a small grocery called Au Bon Prix (“At a Good Price”) for few groceries. Overall, food costs here are about the same, or a little less, than at home. However, the prices of individual items differ greatly from those in the US. For example, today we bought a large loaf of good bread for US $1, but the 250 grams of cheese we got cost US $8. To give another example: While a small jar of peanut butter costs ca. US $8 here, we can buy four large avocados for US $1.
We have been eating well. Tonight we had rice and beans (with some spinach) for our main entrée, along with pineapple and papaya for fruit.
Darlene called the US embassy today, to make contact with the ambassador: we expect to have an audience with her before we leave.
Tuesday, 1-13-09
I had a very full, busy day! In the breaks between my two classes, I went into both Darlene’s and Barb’s classrooms and took photos. During one session of small group work in my own classroom, I took photos of my own students as well. Then after classes this afternoon, after returning to our apartment, I met with several of my students in personal conferences. Darlene finally put a stop to it, and forced me to stop and rest!
While resting(!), I downloaded the photos from my camera as well as Darlene’s. Then all three of us looked through today’s set of pics. Now the ladies are preparing dinner (we’re having rice and beans again!). After dinner, this evening I have to finish a lecture on which I am working for tomorrow afternoon. (As they say, there is no rest for the wicked!)
Yesterday I tried to upload some photos to this blog site. But I did not succeed. I think the “problem” may be that I am taking photos on my (relatively new) camera using the maximum pixel density, and the web site has to scale down the pixel density, and so the program gets stalled mid-way through the process. I will try it with photos from Darlene’s older (i.e., very old) camera, which does not have the capacity for the same pixel density.
In preparing this blog, I have just been interrupted for dinner and then another task. The last container shipped here from the US contained ca. 10 old bicycles. I was asked to inspect them: most need some repair. I also examined a set of old cabinets (base and upper) that someone donated to HAU. The base is 90 inches, with a set of matching upper cabinets; there is also another set of upper cabinets, ca. 80 inches in length. Darlene is thinking that these might be useable in the Nursing lab.
Well, I do need to rest this evening, so I’ll sign off for now
After classes today, we were taken downtown…to care for several items. Darlene and I had “passport photos” taken, to submit with the applications for extending our visas into February. We also exchanged our empty propane tank for a full tank. (Our stovetop burns propane fuel.)
We also stopped by a small grocery called Au Bon Prix (“At a Good Price”) for few groceries. Overall, food costs here are about the same, or a little less, than at home. However, the prices of individual items differ greatly from those in the US. For example, today we bought a large loaf of good bread for US $1, but the 250 grams of cheese we got cost US $8. To give another example: While a small jar of peanut butter costs ca. US $8 here, we can buy four large avocados for US $1.
We have been eating well. Tonight we had rice and beans (with some spinach) for our main entrée, along with pineapple and papaya for fruit.
Darlene called the US embassy today, to make contact with the ambassador: we expect to have an audience with her before we leave.
Tuesday, 1-13-09
I had a very full, busy day! In the breaks between my two classes, I went into both Darlene’s and Barb’s classrooms and took photos. During one session of small group work in my own classroom, I took photos of my own students as well. Then after classes this afternoon, after returning to our apartment, I met with several of my students in personal conferences. Darlene finally put a stop to it, and forced me to stop and rest!
While resting(!), I downloaded the photos from my camera as well as Darlene’s. Then all three of us looked through today’s set of pics. Now the ladies are preparing dinner (we’re having rice and beans again!). After dinner, this evening I have to finish a lecture on which I am working for tomorrow afternoon. (As they say, there is no rest for the wicked!)
Yesterday I tried to upload some photos to this blog site. But I did not succeed. I think the “problem” may be that I am taking photos on my (relatively new) camera using the maximum pixel density, and the web site has to scale down the pixel density, and so the program gets stalled mid-way through the process. I will try it with photos from Darlene’s older (i.e., very old) camera, which does not have the capacity for the same pixel density.
In preparing this blog, I have just been interrupted for dinner and then another task. The last container shipped here from the US contained ca. 10 old bicycles. I was asked to inspect them: most need some repair. I also examined a set of old cabinets (base and upper) that someone donated to HAU. The base is 90 inches, with a set of matching upper cabinets; there is also another set of upper cabinets, ca. 80 inches in length. Darlene is thinking that these might be useable in the Nursing lab.
Well, I do need to rest this evening, so I’ll sign off for now
Sunday, January 11, 2009
It's Monday Morning in Burundi!
Sunday (1/11/09) was a good, but busy day. I arose before sunup to work (yes, on the Sabbath) on my Tuesday class session and lectures in Systematic Theology. (This is the course I came unprepared to teach, and which I have never taught previously in my entire life. So it is requiring considerable work on my part.)
I finished just in time to go to church with Darlene and Barb, at 10:30 am. As planned, we went to the FM church located on the edge of the HAU campus; it’s a short walk on a dirt road/path. We stayed for 1.5 hours, arriving late but also leaving early. (The service began ca. 9 am and concluded ca. 1 pm.) I spent much of my time taking photographs.
After church, we brought some of our food and went to Bob and Hughes’ house (here on the campus), where we had lunch together. Our main entrée was hamburgers, American-style: what a treat!
Then, for me, it was back to our study for several hours of work on my Monday class session and lectures for Systematic Theology. I worked on that task, from ca. 1:30-3:30 pm. Then, Bob and Laurie came by to take us to an international English-speaking service they attend on Sunday afternoons. As it turned out, that service lasted more than 2 hours: much too long. On our return home, I resumed my work on Monday’s class, finishing ca. 8:30 pm.
It’s Monday Morning in Burundi!
Sunday (1/11/09) was a good, but busy day. I arose before sunup to work (yes, on the Sabbath) on my Tuesday class session and lectures in Systematic Theology. (This is the course I came unprepared to teach, and which I have never taught previously in my entire life. So it is requiring considerable work on my part.)
I finished just in time to go to church with Darlene and Barb, at 10:30 am. As planned, we went to the FM church located on the edge of the HAU campus; it’s a short walk on a dirt road/path. We stayed for 1.5 hours, arriving late but also leaving early. (The service began ca. 9 am and concluded ca. 1 pm.) I spent much of my time taking photographs.
After church, we brought some of our food and went to Bob and Hughes’ house (here on the campus), where we had lunch together. Our main entrée was hamburgers, American-style: what a treat!
Then, for me, it was back to our study for several hours of work on my Monday class session and lectures for Systematic Theology. I worked on that task, from ca. 1:30-3:30 pm. Then, Bob and Laurie came by to take us to an international English-speaking service they attend on Sunday afternoons. As it turned out, that service lasted more than 2 hours: much too long. On our return home, I resumed my work on Monday’s class, finishing ca. 8:30 pm.
Then, I downloaded the cameras onto the laptop, and Darlene and I went through our new photos together. We were pleased with some of them, and wished we had done better on others! But we are beginning to develop a collection of half-way decent pics, with a few really good ones here and there.
This morning, I arose before sunup again, to prepare for my other course in Biblical Hermeneutics. Now, it’s time to head off to class. My schedule today: 8:00-10:00, 10:30-12:00 am; 1:00-3:30 pm. Then we have to go downtown to have some passport-size photos taken, required on our application to extend our visas another month into February. (On entry into the country via the airport, you are given 30 days at $40 US each.)
As you can see, we are keeping busy. I pray you have a good day. God bless. downloaded the cameras onto the laptop, and Darlene and I went through our new photos together. We were pleased with some of them, and wished we had done better on others! But we are beginning to develop a collection of half-way decent pics, with a few really good ones here and there.
This morning, I arose before sunup again, to prepare for my other course in Biblical Hermeneutics. Now, it’s time to head off to class. My schedule today: 8:00-10:00, 10:30-12:00 am; 1:00-3:30 pm. Then we have to go downtown to have some passport-size photos taken, required on our application to extend our visas another month into February. (On entry into the country via the airport, you are given 30 days at $40 US each.)
As you can see, we are keeping busy. I pray you have a good day. God bless.
I finished just in time to go to church with Darlene and Barb, at 10:30 am. As planned, we went to the FM church located on the edge of the HAU campus; it’s a short walk on a dirt road/path. We stayed for 1.5 hours, arriving late but also leaving early. (The service began ca. 9 am and concluded ca. 1 pm.) I spent much of my time taking photographs.
After church, we brought some of our food and went to Bob and Hughes’ house (here on the campus), where we had lunch together. Our main entrée was hamburgers, American-style: what a treat!
Then, for me, it was back to our study for several hours of work on my Monday class session and lectures for Systematic Theology. I worked on that task, from ca. 1:30-3:30 pm. Then, Bob and Laurie came by to take us to an international English-speaking service they attend on Sunday afternoons. As it turned out, that service lasted more than 2 hours: much too long. On our return home, I resumed my work on Monday’s class, finishing ca. 8:30 pm.
It’s Monday Morning in Burundi!
Sunday (1/11/09) was a good, but busy day. I arose before sunup to work (yes, on the Sabbath) on my Tuesday class session and lectures in Systematic Theology. (This is the course I came unprepared to teach, and which I have never taught previously in my entire life. So it is requiring considerable work on my part.)
I finished just in time to go to church with Darlene and Barb, at 10:30 am. As planned, we went to the FM church located on the edge of the HAU campus; it’s a short walk on a dirt road/path. We stayed for 1.5 hours, arriving late but also leaving early. (The service began ca. 9 am and concluded ca. 1 pm.) I spent much of my time taking photographs.
After church, we brought some of our food and went to Bob and Hughes’ house (here on the campus), where we had lunch together. Our main entrée was hamburgers, American-style: what a treat!
Then, for me, it was back to our study for several hours of work on my Monday class session and lectures for Systematic Theology. I worked on that task, from ca. 1:30-3:30 pm. Then, Bob and Laurie came by to take us to an international English-speaking service they attend on Sunday afternoons. As it turned out, that service lasted more than 2 hours: much too long. On our return home, I resumed my work on Monday’s class, finishing ca. 8:30 pm.
Then, I downloaded the cameras onto the laptop, and Darlene and I went through our new photos together. We were pleased with some of them, and wished we had done better on others! But we are beginning to develop a collection of half-way decent pics, with a few really good ones here and there.
This morning, I arose before sunup again, to prepare for my other course in Biblical Hermeneutics. Now, it’s time to head off to class. My schedule today: 8:00-10:00, 10:30-12:00 am; 1:00-3:30 pm. Then we have to go downtown to have some passport-size photos taken, required on our application to extend our visas another month into February. (On entry into the country via the airport, you are given 30 days at $40 US each.)
As you can see, we are keeping busy. I pray you have a good day. God bless. downloaded the cameras onto the laptop, and Darlene and I went through our new photos together. We were pleased with some of them, and wished we had done better on others! But we are beginning to develop a collection of half-way decent pics, with a few really good ones here and there.
This morning, I arose before sunup again, to prepare for my other course in Biblical Hermeneutics. Now, it’s time to head off to class. My schedule today: 8:00-10:00, 10:30-12:00 am; 1:00-3:30 pm. Then we have to go downtown to have some passport-size photos taken, required on our application to extend our visas another month into February. (On entry into the country via the airport, you are given 30 days at $40 US each.)
As you can see, we are keeping busy. I pray you have a good day. God bless.
Saturday, January 10, 2009
At the End of Our First Week
Thanks for your patience with me. It’s Saturday, and I have had a bit more opportunity to figure out how to properly post to this BlogSpot. Here in Burundi, it has a completely different interface, and no “dashboard,” and the language is French. So—first writing this blog off-line—I will try to paste it as a New Post …not simply as a Comment on my own blog site (which is where you will find my blogs on the past week).
If new learning contributes to regeneration, I think we can report that we are now 10 years younger than when we arrived a week ago!
Last evening (Friday), we enjoyed a wonderful dinner in an outdoor veranda on Lake Tanganyika. Our dinner party consisted of the three of us, a missionary from England working for the Anglican church here as an assistant to the archbishop, and Bob and Laurie Hughes. Bob and Laurie are Free Methodists from Wenatchee, WA. They have served as VISA missionaries here since 2005 (prior to that, they were in Malawi for three years). They live here on campus. Bob is a retired school teacher, and directs the English language program at HAU. (Since all students at HAU are required to take two years of English, many courses have to be offered.) Laurie works in the library, primarily as a cataloger. She also serves as the campus “Mom,” and is particularly noted for her home-baked cookies! After dinner last evening, we went to the Hughes’ home and watched a movie together: The Ultimate Gift.
Unless we learn otherwise today, we will worship tomorrow morning at the FM church next door to the campus. It is a short walk, but on a dirt road with DEEP holes and ruts. When it rains, it gets VERY muddy. Although church begins ca. 9 am, we probably will not arrive until ca. 10:30, as sitting for 2-3 hours in a crowded room in sweltering heat and humidity is about all we can handle! Typically, in this church, at least two languages are used: French and/or Kirundi and/or Swahili. And then, they will graciously assign to each of us someone to sit alongside and translate into English! So, all of that is quite demanding too. But the services are wonderful, characterized by a sense of joy and celebration. The worship includes multiple choirs, prayers, testimonies and offerings, as well as Scripture readings, congregational singing and preaching.
If new learning contributes to regeneration, I think we can report that we are now 10 years younger than when we arrived a week ago!
Last evening (Friday), we enjoyed a wonderful dinner in an outdoor veranda on Lake Tanganyika. Our dinner party consisted of the three of us, a missionary from England working for the Anglican church here as an assistant to the archbishop, and Bob and Laurie Hughes. Bob and Laurie are Free Methodists from Wenatchee, WA. They have served as VISA missionaries here since 2005 (prior to that, they were in Malawi for three years). They live here on campus. Bob is a retired school teacher, and directs the English language program at HAU. (Since all students at HAU are required to take two years of English, many courses have to be offered.) Laurie works in the library, primarily as a cataloger. She also serves as the campus “Mom,” and is particularly noted for her home-baked cookies! After dinner last evening, we went to the Hughes’ home and watched a movie together: The Ultimate Gift.
Unless we learn otherwise today, we will worship tomorrow morning at the FM church next door to the campus. It is a short walk, but on a dirt road with DEEP holes and ruts. When it rains, it gets VERY muddy. Although church begins ca. 9 am, we probably will not arrive until ca. 10:30, as sitting for 2-3 hours in a crowded room in sweltering heat and humidity is about all we can handle! Typically, in this church, at least two languages are used: French and/or Kirundi and/or Swahili. And then, they will graciously assign to each of us someone to sit alongside and translate into English! So, all of that is quite demanding too. But the services are wonderful, characterized by a sense of joy and celebration. The worship includes multiple choirs, prayers, testimonies and offerings, as well as Scripture readings, congregational singing and preaching.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)