tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77134229204296825332024-03-13T10:28:01.195-07:00Bridge To Rwanda...there's a bridge to Rwanda, built upon the cross. Held together by the nails that pierced through Jesus' hands...Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-48365953987426437492013-09-19T07:37:00.000-07:002013-09-19T07:38:20.993-07:00Starting over...PREVIOUS UNPOSTED ENTRY - 04/27/12<br />
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Dear Friends and Family,<br />
<br />
As I look at my last posting on January 2011, its been more than a year since my last posting. OMG, I apologize again as life just got ahold of me and Jean-Paul. We have had quite a time trying to get settled in America. We are finally here in Austin, Texas after spending almost a year in Los Angeles, CA struggling. We came to America October 2010 with only what we earned from selling EVERYTHING we owned in Rwanda, which wasn't alot. God really blessed us with enough to get JP's visa and our airplane tickets and a bit more to start off in an apartment.<br />
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It's been a mix of emotions returning to America. I was so happy to be back in the comforts of family and familiarity (however, my family still remained far), not to mention some American luxuries that we take for granted. However, one thing that I could not prepare for is that time has moved on, America has progressed, people have gone on with their lives while I was living in a less developed country. In order to survive in Rwanda, I (a master multi-tasker) had to teach myself to slow down and adjust to the less urgent pace of Africa. Returning to America, I've had to speed back up. I also lost some value in the job market as I was a volunteer humanitarian worker for 4 years. Coming back into the job market has been tough. Some people can value the time I've spent in Rwanda, but others cannot. I was a teacher and a marketing communications professional before I left for Rwanda. In those years, America leaped into an age obsessed with social networking (which is also invading Africa today). During my time in Rwanda, I used social networking to keep in touch with people, but the internet was so slow and I didn't have TV to keep me up on the latest industry norms.<br />
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Another challenge that I faced as a returning missionary was that I returned to another city and no longer had my church family support because apparently the mission ended as I crossed the international borders. In an instant I had to switch modes and go from a daily life with mission purpose - focused on bringing Christ and compassion to anyone around me, to a lost world of unemployment and struggling finances. Then, I had a new husband, who is also new to America, that I had to assist in getting adjusted to all the changes.<br />
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So, to make a long story short, its been a whirlwind year for us...almost 2 years back now.<br />
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However, we did successfully reach two anniversaries of marriage. We stood the newlywed test and are still madly and passionately in love and blessed. Don't get me wrong, its not perfect and we have our challenges, but its perfectly made and blessed by God. The love of God and the love we have for each other is truly the glue that keeps everything together for us. Marriage is alot of work, but a work of God. We praise the Lord for giving us strength and love. Many people have asked us about whether we have a baby yet. We have been working on it. Life in America is not easy. Financial strains and managing daily life is stressful on our physical, practical and spiritual existence. But we can and will do all things through Christ Jesus. We trust that God will bring things together and our family will be born from the grace of God. We want to make sure that when we bring a child into this world, that we are prepared to give the child the best of life. So, the answer to that question is that we and God are working on our future family. All prayers are welcome.<br />
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As I take on whatever jobs come my way to support us, I long for the wonderful days filled with purpose. I long for the days of being the vessel that God uses to bring hope and joy to the people of Africa. I long for days of sitting in my living room and sharing God's miracles with young people. We will return one day, strong and fully stocked with resources to change lives for Christ.<br />
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Life is short.Cherish the days you have. Whether you past was filled with joys or sorrows, they are days gone by. Look ahead at the things God has in mind for you.There are treasures stored up in Heaven and Earth waiting for you to surrender your path so that God can lead you towards the true path to retrieve your blessings. I thank you for reading my blogs for all these years. I will soon be putting up a new blog to start the new chapters of my journey with God. Please keep me in your prayers to seek God first and foremost. I have left the third world country for now, but my mission has not ended. In God's eyes, I am still a missionary, on special mission, on a new season, in a new place, fighting for the cause of Christ - that all may seek His face and rejoice. I pray for you all to find the joy of the Lord in your lives and to keep a tight grip on it.<br />
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With love and blessings to all,<br />
Linda (Huang) BigirindavyiUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-69851977265574008562011-01-01T10:55:00.000-08:002011-01-01T14:15:42.319-08:00The Bridge to Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Vol.17<style>@font-face { font-family: "Times New Roman"; }@font-face { font-family: "Courier New"; }@font-face { font-family: "Wingdings"; }@font-face { font-family: "Lucida Grande"; }p.MsoNormal, li.MsoNormal, div.MsoNormal { margin: 0in 0in 0.0001pt; font-size: 12pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }table.MsoNormalTable { font-size: 10pt; font-family: "Times New Roman"; }div.Section1 { page: Section1; }ol { margin-bottom: 0in; }ul { margin-bottom: 0in; }</style> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:78%;">[Click on photos to view larger. Click BACK to return to blog]</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:78%;"><i>In the name of Jesus, I cover this blog and all the information and incidents in the Blood of Christ, that the projects, contents and words would be unharmed. Amen</i></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b> </b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b>January 1, 2011, Los Angeles, CA, USA</b><span style="font-weight: normal;"> – Dear Friends & Family,</span> Please forgive me for not posting for so long. A lot has been going on at light speeds and truthfully we wanted to keep things confidential until they worked out. However, I have tried, so here is what I meant to post on Thanksgiving.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b> </b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i>November 25, 2010, Los Angeles, CA, USA – Happy Thanksgiving! This is a special thanksgiving posting because my husband and I are so thankful for our Lord God for His Grace and mercy. My husband and I have moved to Los Angeles, CA. We arrived about 3 weeks ago. It’s been a project in the works that we needed to keep confidential so as not to allow the enemy any ground to complicate matters. I had been praying for a long time since we returned from our wedding for God to show me the next step of this journey.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><br /></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style=""> </span>Our hearts were definitely ready to stay wherever God called us to serve. However, for some time, funding had been diminishing because I had not been home to fundraise or organize. For some time, I had been struggling to find work to “tentmake” in Rwanda. Yet, God began to close the doors. JP’s health with diabetes was not doing well with the stress of life in Rwanda and lack of food choices or proper medications. Even my health was questionable. We could barely pay rent or afford ministry travel needs. And, the organization I founded in Houston, Urukundo for the Children was lacking organization, leadership and direction. Communication from afar began to get more and more difficult. I felt it was time to consult with God about the direction of our future.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><br /></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style=""> </span>I asked God to show me clearly what to do. God reminded me that He came first and family came next. I asked God that if He wanted us to stay in Rwanda he’d open the doors by providing a stable longterm job. As I applied for jobs, each door closed so I began to think the time was right to leave. As we decided to try to return to USA to live, God began parting the “Red Seas” to make that possible, confirming each step miraculously. We applied for JP’s green card and let God take over the rest. As soon as the paperwork got to the right place, the processing went so quickly and smoothly. We took many trips to Kenya to finish the process.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><br /></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style=""> </span>Then, we prayed about where to go in the US. Do we return to my hometown of Houston or do we go to the east coast, Midwest or west coast? Do we go somewhere new or some place familiar to me? I felt God pointing me again towards “family.” I have been so far from my family for so long and I am also starting a new family with JP. Most of my family now resides in the west coast, so that is where we decided to go. Perhaps God had some Godly appointments for us because He pointed us to Los Angeles, California. After going through all the steps (and there were many), we booked our flight to Los Angeles. The clock was ticking and we needed a miracle. We had to find a job and a place to live on limited funds. Praise God! He answered our prayers faithfully. We found a place in a weeks time and got settled in minimally. Now, I have been applying for a job in teaching or graphics/marketing communications.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><br /></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><i><span style=""> </span>We said our farewells to our church, as Pastor Lydia and Apostle Masasu prayed over us to send us out as missionaries of Evangelical Restoration Church Remera. They advised us to always remember to be examples of Christ wherever we go and to stay in unity and love. They also told us to keep in touch always with our church family in Rwanda as they will be praying for us. We sold all our possessions in miraculous timing to help us start out. JP visited his family for the last time and we bid farewell to local friends.</i></p><p class="MsoNormal"><i><br /><span style=""> </span></i></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b>Back to January 1, 2011, Los Angeles, CA, USA</b><span style="font-weight: normal;"> – Happy New Years! Praise God Almighty because He is alive and faithful! When I was in Rwanda, struggling to make ends meet and missing my family and friends in America, I prayed that God would allow us to get back by Christmas. Hallelujah! We spent our first Thanksgiving in America. JP had his first turkey dinner, just the two of us. Then, we just flew back from a few days with my family for Christmas. This was JP’s first quality time with my family and it was wonderful. I had missed 4 years of their lives.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>Being back in America is great. Living in Rwanda for so long really makes me appreciate my own country. It’s truly the LAND OF THE FREE! Even JP feels a true cultural freedom here. It’s nice to be able to speak and be yourself without fear of blatant persecution. Of course, there are still issues in America, but ultimately we are very FREE! In other countries, there are so many cultural taboos that you are constantly conscious of.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>We’ve been here in Los Angeles for 2 months now and all is well. However, getting a job when you have become a bit outdated is not so easy. But I have faith that God has a plan. Please pray for a job to come soon. Our finances will last us only until the end of January.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>Praise God! We thought we were out of JP’s diabetes meds and we don’t have medical insurance yet because of being unemployed, but God miraculously did His things and we found out his prescription still had months of refills left. God bless Dr. Su from HFBC.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>We don’t have a car yet, so we’ve been on foot or bus. The transportation system here is wonderful. It takes three times to time to get places, but we get there safely. And it totally beats the ragged minibuses and motos of Africa.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>We’ve been exploring churches, but haven’t really found a home church yet. This is not exactly the Bible belt of America. It’s actually the New Age and showbiz belt of America. So, churches are very different and far. But we have faith that God has a place for us, to grow us and use us.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>Mostly, I’ve been really busy applying for jobs. That’s one reason I get so tired of the computer that I fail to blog. For some reason, God got us back after the beginning of the school year so it complicates things in the teaching jobs area. And things in America have moved on technologically so my graphics and marketing experiences are a bit behind. I am able to do new media marketing, but don’t have the experience in my resume. I know the job market is tough all around in America, so I try to be patient.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>JP has been so in love with America and the ocean. His health is improving, although he’s caught a cold from the extraordinary cold front that has come to LA. I am also dealing with re-adapting to culture as America has changed in many ways.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>JP has begun Advanced English – Adult classes and will be progressing towards passing his GED so he can have a more promising job future. He’s enjoying the teaching methods of America.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>Overall, we are great because God is faithful. Our greatest need right now is for me to get a job. I am praying not just for a job to make money to live, but a safe place where I can serve God and work for long term in peace. In going to Rwanda, I sacrificed a lot of my career in both teaching and graphics/marketing communications. Getting back into the swing of things is not easy. And being in CA instead of TX…I have get certified in CA so tracking down records and letters is a task. BUT I KNOW GOD IS FAITHFUL, He has answered all prayers so far, so we continue to pray for a future for the Huang Bigirindavyi family.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>For all our faithful prayer warriors, we want to thank you so much for all your support. I know you are there. JP and I love you so much and miss you all. I will try to keep you posted as things progress. This is a brief update. Please pray for all the emotional and spiritual stuff within us that is adjusting to change. It’s not easy. There have been both support and judgments about our staying in Rwanda and leaving Rwanda, but we stand strong by the feet of Jesus. I know that God’s calling was real. He sustained me through much in Rwanda and brought me back safely, with a wonderful husband. We have not folded our mission for Rwanda, but have moved onto the next phase. Only God knows who or how anything is going to happen. We just go forward according to His direction and His favor.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""> </span>When I get more time, I will post some photos of JP’s experiencing LA. Love Yall!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"> </p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Love in Christ Jesus,</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Linda & Jean-Paul</b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">PRAISE GOD!!!</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;">For our marriage</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;">For our safe transition to America</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;">For our apartment</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;">For great Thanksgiving & Christmas</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;">For answers to prayers<br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;">For all our supporters and prayer warriors</span></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"> </span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">PRAYER REQUESTS</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;color:black;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;">Favor for Linda to get the right job soon</span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:85%;color:black;" ></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;color:black;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;">A church in LA where JP and I can grow and serve</span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:85%;color:black;" ></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;color:black;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;">Continued health and healing for JP</span><span style=";font-family:";font-size:85%;color:black;" ></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;color:black;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;">Linda’s physical and spiritual health</span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;color:black;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><span style="font-size:85%;">Overall getting settled and getting some direction for our future</span><span style=";font-family:";color:black;" ></span></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-83263624319948207462010-04-18T17:19:00.000-07:002010-10-28T01:31:25.842-07:00The Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Volume 16<span style="font-size:10pt;"><span style="font-size:85%;">[Click on photos to view larger. Click BACK to return to blog]<o:p></o:p></span><i><span style="font-size:85%;"> In the name of Jesus, I cover this blog and all the information and incidents in the Blood of Christ, that the projects, contents and words would be unharmed. Amen</span><o:p></o:p></i></span><div class="Section1"> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" spt="75" preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"> </v:formulas> <v:path extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" connecttype="rect"> <o:lock ext="edit" aspectratio="t"></v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_s1077" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'position:absolute;" wrapcoords="-194 0 -194 21460 21600 21460 21600 0 -194 0"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image001.jpg" title="830027184_P5mGf-L"> <w:wrap type="tight"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6LRwfN1s9zDKQiOzAcBRTf_w9fGsTHcxNfEEH8eTBwHXHGgpazAuFKwj3HXq6sRJWsZD-Eu6IchANAF1_NZGY7sL4xLLNi7Pkw0KQgxWfZ-nzhUQviGJeeaNgF-5GVuEsAMe91hvHHq8/s1600/image001.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 93px; height: 130px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6LRwfN1s9zDKQiOzAcBRTf_w9fGsTHcxNfEEH8eTBwHXHGgpazAuFKwj3HXq6sRJWsZD-Eu6IchANAF1_NZGY7sL4xLLNi7Pkw0KQgxWfZ-nzhUQviGJeeaNgF-5GVuEsAMe91hvHHq8/s200/image001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461637371787346898" border="0" /></a><b>April 20, 2010, KIGALI, RWANDA</b><span style="font-weight: normal;"> – Praise God! This is a </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">quick blog to share with you briefly how wonderful and faithful God is and just share a few photos from the wedding trip. <o:p></o:p></span>We have been back in Kigali for a week now (since April 12) and I have been busy cramming deadlines for a class as well as dealing with survival issues so please forgive me for taking so long to get this out. I want you to know that God worked out every little detail of this wedding so perfectly in His own timing.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">HOLDING ON FOR GOD’S MIRACLE</span><o:p></o:p>. Why do we call this a Miracle Wedding? Well, not only was our meeting and coming together a miracle, but the planning and implementation of the wedding event was beyond human hands. We began this wedding project several months before the wedding with literally zero in the bank. Even a few weeks before the wedding, that balance had not increased and we were worried. We held on with the strength of our love and faith in the Lord, persevering through fleshly temptations to take out a loan or to change the wedding plans. And God came through faithfully.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">GOD MOVES MOUNTAINS</span><o:p style="font-weight: bold;"></o:p><span style="font-weight: bold;">. </span>Three weeks before the wedding, things began to move. God miraculously granted us favor with God’s people. Faithful people from both the US and Rwanda began donating funds and services to make this wedding not only happen but glorify God with its magnificence. We were still tight on funds, but we had our airplane tickets and we were packed and ready to go. As long as we got to Houston we knew we could always continue to downsize the wedding. JP got his visa in two days and on March 11<sup>th</sup> our loving church family in Rwanda picked us up and sent us off at the airport with love and prayers.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZEzcoUT57TNq5NdUPZvNzuKbY8Hl9N6IL9wnLeczJXAZP3Pd2UC1fC_Bmzmz21VzpNMCJUweFxZBgOhTdA9ynD9DyA7CCGpmoI0IglsO4shAyfyFhpm7_oHoouIUsfG7I29qCdRIjGY/s1600/image003.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 92px; height: 69px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZEzcoUT57TNq5NdUPZvNzuKbY8Hl9N6IL9wnLeczJXAZP3Pd2UC1fC_Bmzmz21VzpNMCJUweFxZBgOhTdA9ynD9DyA7CCGpmoI0IglsO4shAyfyFhpm7_oHoouIUsfG7I29qCdRIjGY/s200/image003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461638409905759650" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic7OcXhpdLH-jQIJcgd2ya0lKsBxS-Kd1r1axs2Od5qmphvfAMCUAmT1bl_L0QJ8F2v550Km3Ic3ZbJYnNynTJrRIKEqJDPdmklSoWglUhVbReHqehCCR4zlo0SjfAXkvwUGyk-b_T4CY/s1600/image005.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 96px; height: 72px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic7OcXhpdLH-jQIJcgd2ya0lKsBxS-Kd1r1axs2Od5qmphvfAMCUAmT1bl_L0QJ8F2v550Km3Ic3ZbJYnNynTJrRIKEqJDPdmklSoWglUhVbReHqehCCR4zlo0SjfAXkvwUGyk-b_T4CY/s200/image005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461638420058970498" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">A NEW EXPERIENCE</span><o:p style="font-weight: bold;"></o:p><span style="font-weight: bold;">. </span>This was Jean-Paul’s first trip in an airplane and out of East Africa so I got to experience the trip through new eyes. Jean-Paul was full of mixed feelings of excitement, nervousness, and awe. <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_s1079" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'position:absolute;margin-left:121.05pt;margin-top:12.8pt;width:64.8pt;" wrapcoords="-251 0 -251 21412 21600 21412 21600 0 -251 0"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image009.jpg" title="IMG_0557"> <w:wrap type="tight"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">It was a long journey on three airplanes (flying through Uganda, Ethiopia, London, to Houston), 21 hours of flying, and two 8-12 hour airport layovers. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4ogIwqetXQ1Fo0mazLKjRBS1Uy3O_cb7SLMQ5WGk-4kIP2sRyyVAYtpvMZMIQSS8gtoqRicsEDFhghmLB5dt4ZLOD87GeHvyha6ck3SIgknVxQFfQmWpIWWA-fee8xaZTx67dRQ3ans/s1600/image011.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 81px; height: 60px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC4ogIwqetXQ1Fo0mazLKjRBS1Uy3O_cb7SLMQ5WGk-4kIP2sRyyVAYtpvMZMIQSS8gtoqRicsEDFhghmLB5dt4ZLOD87GeHvyha6ck3SIgknVxQFfQmWpIWWA-fee8xaZTx67dRQ3ans/s200/image011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461639560692052146" border="0" /></a>We watched a few movies and tried to get some sleep, but Jean-Paul was glued to the map screen that showed our continuous flight path. He loved to see where we were flying over. He was amazed at the Atlantic ocean and the snowcapped mountains as we flew over east Canada and the American northeast. <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_s1076" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'position:absolute;margin-left:4.05pt;margin-top:2.5pt;width:138.95pt;" wrapcoords="-116 0 -116 21398 21600 21398 21600 0 -116 0"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image013.png" title="Houston copy"> <w:wrap type="tight"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVk9YZ64iWD-2YeHPhlmiv7wPD0M5d8-nZOaVAWOza9DaA4YI7R4HSRh7-Fnc3iYxNNyaq5wFYeW6ONKr4-7CKG851Q95JcMIx-S5LPO-a3QmVvOUeUK-LC3sr1HLwFxD2u74U-7Tg4M/s1600/image014.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 139px; height: 79px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEVk9YZ64iWD-2YeHPhlmiv7wPD0M5d8-nZOaVAWOza9DaA4YI7R4HSRh7-Fnc3iYxNNyaq5wFYeW6ONKr4-7CKG851Q95JcMIx-S5LPO-a3QmVvOUeUK-LC3sr1HLwFxD2u74U-7Tg4M/s200/image014.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461640045873587026" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]-->As we finally flew over Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston, Texas, JP was amazed at how huge the airport was and how far it was to the centre of Houston. We arrived on the evening of Friday, March 12<sup>th</sup> and my friend Amy picked us up at the airport. For me it was refreshing to be on highway roads without loud horns and people shouting and jumping out at you. I was home indeed. <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_s1075" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'position:absolute;margin-left:.1pt;margin-top:21.1pt;width:120.95pt;" wrapcoords="-134 0 -134 21421 21599 21421 21599 0 -134 0"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image015.jpg" title="IMG_0625"> <w:wrap type="tight"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnErzRsNsQU1K_HtWfGzIp6as1v0aAx9WFLWe7eyUYGWfx9BEQ591-t5rtW6EObdgZ-5N8VRoKwIRPGc7KAI7OxnziLSn3fbRMKJ9I5hQ2FdnYYPaPyE7knKQpPz9NcB3tRQwuGWeoJ_0/s1600/image015.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 94px; height: 70px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnErzRsNsQU1K_HtWfGzIp6as1v0aAx9WFLWe7eyUYGWfx9BEQ591-t5rtW6EObdgZ-5N8VRoKwIRPGc7KAI7OxnziLSn3fbRMKJ9I5hQ2FdnYYPaPyE7knKQpPz9NcB3tRQwuGWeoJ_0/s200/image015.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461640697609408450" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]-->We stayed at the house of a church family who offered to let us stay in two of their rooms during our month long stay in Houston, minus the wedding week when the church graciously offered to put us in a hotel. We took our first hot shower and picked up a missionary loaner truck the next morning (Saturday) at Houston’s First Baptist Church. <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">We spent the first two weeks driving all over Houston organizing low-cost decorations for the wedding reception and visiting a few friends. This was a long and difficult process, but it allowed JP to see quite a bit of Houston.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1028" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:85pt;height:64pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image017.jpg" title="IMG_0620"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ85Kq8c8gxojs_klXQnhmEU509k55T00P3u3N4xpGsc2T_B-GpQ4QdkIWxExm_2X0iVsKTEP6_bjUkddO3OqHywZ5KvyukpKptFpMKUqDJ9IT-WR7Mxbq0cuKsEBUxk2wjsx1ixqkREM/s1600/image017.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 96px; height: 73px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQ85Kq8c8gxojs_klXQnhmEU509k55T00P3u3N4xpGsc2T_B-GpQ4QdkIWxExm_2X0iVsKTEP6_bjUkddO3OqHywZ5KvyukpKptFpMKUqDJ9IT-WR7Mxbq0cuKsEBUxk2wjsx1ixqkREM/s200/image017.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461642476833164002" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1029" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:87pt;height:65pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image019.jpg" title="IMG_0650"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-GQ7QQvDnGtD03-r1MJPJA72ismr7bbMY1QJJWzTenHsZW_SehO1_X0ZAQbWVqbr3eFRCdcI2bAjNKGNFOgONVYJbE8OVcDW5mzFfvlGoNBpeos8R2tPIZLBE5zOgxFs3jJl2ETE5UmU/s1600/image019.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 91px; height: 72px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-GQ7QQvDnGtD03-r1MJPJA72ismr7bbMY1QJJWzTenHsZW_SehO1_X0ZAQbWVqbr3eFRCdcI2bAjNKGNFOgONVYJbE8OVcDW5mzFfvlGoNBpeos8R2tPIZLBE5zOgxFs3jJl2ETE5UmU/s200/image019.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461642487257790402" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1030" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:114pt;height:66pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image021.jpg" title="IMG_0655"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The next <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYokBOTpsVbPOJGmo7oKpyFo5fbHOjW6j-DKPugT_2DDh8xxIKX79VqGGR9EdIaJE4_97vc051ATujmMx_ozlGFz7sYKUTVvxX86A9inLAjEXBiUrAbe3pu-8tGP17A0UKtVX9GGSPujg/s1600/image021.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 131px; height: 74px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYokBOTpsVbPOJGmo7oKpyFo5fbHOjW6j-DKPugT_2DDh8xxIKX79VqGGR9EdIaJE4_97vc051ATujmMx_ozlGFz7sYKUTVvxX86A9inLAjEXBiUrAbe3pu-8tGP17A0UKtVX9GGSPujg/s200/image021.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461642493386820802" border="0" /></a>morning we went to service and Bible Study class at Houston’s First Baptist Church. The size of my megachurch of over 10,000 members excited JP. We enjoyed Pastor Gregg Matte’s pre-Easter message, the excellent choir and orchestra, and the wonderful hospitality of the Bible Study class. <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1031" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:85pt;height:64pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image023.jpg" title="IMG_0607"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWu95nGPeU5h4eIMU7f2-0n7IGgxhzJuANYbAzVdSZKYSJRDdtc-dv6Zzs7QqzxbyF4n6MmETFg8FwcFmSVtuaK_q_Y8CuKaiOkS7XfeEbpCDjjPiApOruwdutpyYHRVLxa6_PQlV34gk/s1600/image023.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 69px; height: 52px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWu95nGPeU5h4eIMU7f2-0n7IGgxhzJuANYbAzVdSZKYSJRDdtc-dv6Zzs7QqzxbyF4n6MmETFg8FwcFmSVtuaK_q_Y8CuKaiOkS7XfeEbpCDjjPiApOruwdutpyYHRVLxa6_PQlV34gk/s200/image023.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461645678263471858" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1032" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:114pt;height:65pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image025.jpg" title="IMG_0667"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDicCG5mm1fFu2lJsC1CDzslp60o01L_dSL4vJ0f-tdZnKpoGHpZOE6rEATMVCjI6YphsooJFL-2OplrB60qfdbjHNPA8rgbvv8DL4pdalZv4NR0kBEIjKnIqpdyz-VNSATRgqwRX_sNU/s1600/image025.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 98px; height: 55px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDicCG5mm1fFu2lJsC1CDzslp60o01L_dSL4vJ0f-tdZnKpoGHpZOE6rEATMVCjI6YphsooJFL-2OplrB60qfdbjHNPA8rgbvv8DL4pdalZv4NR0kBEIjKnIqpdyz-VNSATRgqwRX_sNU/s200/image025.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461645692041760722" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1033" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:114pt;height:65pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image027.jpg" title="IMG_0615"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1OJvKqvpmbBlVUB7U6rwQKvsU3wbRAdSckxcgCPXC-UZorxfM5F_truJDiE3PC5wEVgHx8Sds_y070AIGCRd2NCat9A8JPVKxVNo8tFAWS5WnXdn6nsvOKDnhXjvzPQBJgWS0gaM-IY/s1600/image027.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 97px; height: 54px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS1OJvKqvpmbBlVUB7U6rwQKvsU3wbRAdSckxcgCPXC-UZorxfM5F_truJDiE3PC5wEVgHx8Sds_y070AIGCRd2NCat9A8JPVKxVNo8tFAWS5WnXdn6nsvOKDnhXjvzPQBJgWS0gaM-IY/s200/image027.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461645704243114930" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">After class we enjoyed Mexican fajitas and chili con queso at Pappasita’s Cantina. JP loved it. He said it was like African food.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_s1071" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'position:absolute;margin-left:4.05pt;margin-top:6.25pt;width:71.8pt;" wrapcoords="-186 0 -186 21460 21600 21460 21600 0 -186 0"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image029.jpg" title="IMG_0582"> <w:wrap type="tight"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxI_cPLYDIRqf-C1LIdraKqBut0pAm0bRzBw8JDRKRbFxFuF4UVhGbIO-mFKF7Zwehq0YcpfalNHnSkMAYLhKj7Groy3RPLrc83kuQ8JTBZrAxsM9wYmTT8Q2327w3873a7LIUUN5WovU/s1600/image029.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 69px; height: 92px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxI_cPLYDIRqf-C1LIdraKqBut0pAm0bRzBw8JDRKRbFxFuF4UVhGbIO-mFKF7Zwehq0YcpfalNHnSkMAYLhKj7Groy3RPLrc83kuQ8JTBZrAxsM9wYmTT8Q2327w3873a7LIUUN5WovU/s200/image029.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461646227810135906" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">DENTIST</span><o:p></o:p>. Jean-Paul had acquired a sore jaw joint that prevented him from eating. The pain was so excruciating. I didn’t know what to do because we didn’t have health insurance or funds for dental care so we asked around the church for a referral to an affordable dentist. Praise God! We got one. This would be JP’s first dental visit ever. The dentist turned out to be a sweet Christian. He told us JP had some muscular strain from stress so he needed to take some muscle relaxers and sleep with a mouth guard. When we told him we were missionaries from Africa he didn’t charge us for the visit. We were so blessed. PTL!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">MEETING WITH THE MINISTER.</span> The next two days we met with Don Munton, our marriage minister, who coached us through the whole wedding process and writing vows. Don is the Singles Director at the church and I've known him since I joined HFBC. He is a sweet and humble soul. He had some time each of us. We had no clue what to do since we'd never been the star players of a wedding, but Don made us feel very at ease. He simply told both of us not to worry because he was in charge and would direct us throughout the ceremony, the minute we walk into the chapel. Don is quite the pro at this. Thanks, Don, for making JP feel so loved and cared for. We both love you so much! Thanks, Denise (his wife), for letting Don spend time on this.<br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1034" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:103pt;height:77pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image031.jpg" title="IMG_0566"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiamaSlrC7hhDj7YKKnYuOEj1v-wQFskS3-WGJE_GmetAbpAKkKf1oYie3f0cdR2dsfqfQpaqLYnqzYVNCzHMxY8Mp04xRIPeeJs2WT1UeV_2ZWPcFMd0BGoRIAFDJ1s4a8JHHW-Fc7Fhw/s1600/image031.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 99px; height: 74px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiamaSlrC7hhDj7YKKnYuOEj1v-wQFskS3-WGJE_GmetAbpAKkKf1oYie3f0cdR2dsfqfQpaqLYnqzYVNCzHMxY8Mp04xRIPeeJs2WT1UeV_2ZWPcFMd0BGoRIAFDJ1s4a8JHHW-Fc7Fhw/s200/image031.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461646931498765474" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1035" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:105pt;height:79pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image033.jpg" title="IMG_0569"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSss8LGzZu2U_HXfCWeluRHY1b-8bqO6w5QHypu2QTVOoGlmIUNJJHqLIvSqc983ZYplhQS0VHM_3tbkINfLgEYXT1j9GTb8orIkEGrNLiCR2qVR1Yd5XmAN5x7PcJM51EJHXHPsl5Aw8/s1600/image035.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 96px; height: 72px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSss8LGzZu2U_HXfCWeluRHY1b-8bqO6w5QHypu2QTVOoGlmIUNJJHqLIvSqc983ZYplhQS0VHM_3tbkINfLgEYXT1j9GTb8orIkEGrNLiCR2qVR1Yd5XmAN5x7PcJM51EJHXHPsl5Aw8/s200/image035.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461646947652432130" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1036" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:103pt;height:77pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image035.jpg" title="IMG_0570"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rFbS2wxT4L9mKpql7-Ut02fyWp5fOC8uOXyFux3RSPzy14mqq7ZAYCinO8NR457pXNz0cyuEqUkcedeMYB5kLInQdHoNetf5U0H7x1E3qPdZBa7tNbOmztXb1sRpG3YPB3HTBR5QBJ4/s1600/image033.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 94px; height: 69px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2rFbS2wxT4L9mKpql7-Ut02fyWp5fOC8uOXyFux3RSPzy14mqq7ZAYCinO8NR457pXNz0cyuEqUkcedeMYB5kLInQdHoNetf5U0H7x1E3qPdZBa7tNbOmztXb1sRpG3YPB3HTBR5QBJ4/s200/image033.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461646940334402290" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]--></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">THE GUITAR CENTER</span><o:p></o:p>. I took Jean-Paul, a professional lead guitarist who has never owned his own guitar, to his first real guitar store. The look on his face was priceless as we entered the huge warehouse of guitars. The walls and ceilings were covered in a forest of electric and acoustic guitars, basses, effects, amps and other musical instruments and devices. For JP it was like being in a playground because he was free to test out any equipment. I think we spent four or five hours in the store our first time. He was so happy as he played like an angel. I was so proud that my fiancé was obviously the best guitarist around in the store.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1037" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:76pt;height:57pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image037.jpg" title="IMG_0638"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfHHYF0fHANcW_E1nBs9lAlIDWRoNw8gNT9h7feCN9BuZ9t3UY8Rq5Y9Y1aiCOum_zGX3EfBgm802Od6VbpHy4JSZ3-IIJRdt1B4nufRrcQFXz3X2oi9v6hdHPMaWBnxnEDRwDCzGVUdk/s1600/image037.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 67px; height: 50px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfHHYF0fHANcW_E1nBs9lAlIDWRoNw8gNT9h7feCN9BuZ9t3UY8Rq5Y9Y1aiCOum_zGX3EfBgm802Od6VbpHy4JSZ3-IIJRdt1B4nufRrcQFXz3X2oi9v6hdHPMaWBnxnEDRwDCzGVUdk/s200/image037.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461648265589936834" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1038" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:78pt;height:59pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image039.jpg" title="IMG_0642"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJ-qLpLWUZdClDCrqdLljzWllzso9RztBLSHBt-A_lnOcU03OJtVcEuDj2F1Sw2BrnuZ6xH9c6LNVY5I2YpUZpqkhqSXIc1uRASOgabA1YUMNvS_xYFigzqJd3_FmnMgoCVq4L3-QxBM/s1600/image039.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 64px; height: 48px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyJ-qLpLWUZdClDCrqdLljzWllzso9RztBLSHBt-A_lnOcU03OJtVcEuDj2F1Sw2BrnuZ6xH9c6LNVY5I2YpUZpqkhqSXIc1uRASOgabA1YUMNvS_xYFigzqJd3_FmnMgoCVq4L3-QxBM/s200/image039.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461648277837818450" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1039" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:78pt;height:59pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image041.jpg" title="IMG_0645"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVrMJTAlxmfJNyCtEfW88kbtJefiJ2v5C2QPWZB4tv3rdOgYfP3GE-K9_hP1ztaLZT4UnhxLb7ECs2HA_XGzcBZ6MN9NPixh4B50JCxMZKRzWZMK18M_suojueEtLH5ZJv0p0aGbGXJpc/s1600/image041.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 75px; height: 56px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVrMJTAlxmfJNyCtEfW88kbtJefiJ2v5C2QPWZB4tv3rdOgYfP3GE-K9_hP1ztaLZT4UnhxLb7ECs2HA_XGzcBZ6MN9NPixh4B50JCxMZKRzWZMK18M_suojueEtLH5ZJv0p0aGbGXJpc/s200/image041.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461648285349145202" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1040" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:79pt;height:59pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image043.jpg" title="IMG_0647"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit49PfW3qcdu97rNJNUykBCQNPXwPdkV_TNmDrYVluKzJaEbTFOrUcKUwOhC8FzokKSrHSZvdyXwTdiJyC1O5kJouBWQ_3w4ZzfVFxcV0N-GfmQ6jdu47HOnq-v7SW393kih-eVJRze-0/s1600/image043.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 71px; height: 53px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEit49PfW3qcdu97rNJNUykBCQNPXwPdkV_TNmDrYVluKzJaEbTFOrUcKUwOhC8FzokKSrHSZvdyXwTdiJyC1O5kJouBWQ_3w4ZzfVFxcV0N-GfmQ6jdu47HOnq-v7SW393kih-eVJRze-0/s200/image043.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461648294946106242" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">WEDDING SHOWER</span><o:p style="font-weight: bold;"></o:p><span style="font-weight: bold;">.</span> The next Sunday afternoon my friends gave us a small wedding shower (pre-wedding party) so they could all meet JP prior to the wedding. We had cupcakes (my first in 3 years) and punch and opened gifts. They bought us lovely corsages to wear. It was wonderful to see friends I hadn’t seen in a long time and share with them the blessing of God.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK9SYSG1puKZHRfuAO1ZeNVYWcbbz1cS7XCbXkkwRmDc5vMUSk7rj1JwuSuqpLE_jeRuit1R5RkWNCaaGBe690DFMoHJzk3q4yqLd7Id9cEXoWUru6ITUAz5y3jLvEzmfuE7rcfzdb6VA/s1600/image045.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 49px; height: 66px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK9SYSG1puKZHRfuAO1ZeNVYWcbbz1cS7XCbXkkwRmDc5vMUSk7rj1JwuSuqpLE_jeRuit1R5RkWNCaaGBe690DFMoHJzk3q4yqLd7Id9cEXoWUru6ITUAz5y3jLvEzmfuE7rcfzdb6VA/s200/image045.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461648303299490738" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTFezcU-GP2NhGWjXBPyu97dhykckoF1O4A6WyiTpg5v9nLBXszyjEKDoD-rGwV466xMfsfu_xutLaHHsPnu3Lv7QvOyyldnXorFFfR5ehsa8RYMi2LjbO7TMdPeo8W_gS8P00dbx5MdU/s1600/image047.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 49px; height: 63px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTFezcU-GP2NhGWjXBPyu97dhykckoF1O4A6WyiTpg5v9nLBXszyjEKDoD-rGwV466xMfsfu_xutLaHHsPnu3Lv7QvOyyldnXorFFfR5ehsa8RYMi2LjbO7TMdPeo8W_gS8P00dbx5MdU/s200/image047.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461649433327553858" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeQdbQcy9CdEILVqvPbeYPWt8QuWFe-fnslvb7C0WBMEso3Jd40YT7jZ5qvHgzXJE3T2QmNxyhjbc91bK_3mjLMnUaBY3GYgtaiC7oB1dBv6dSHEhdlYgf8uAnAc7Djdnn9mNkD_6GTsg/s1600/image049.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 81px; height: 63px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeQdbQcy9CdEILVqvPbeYPWt8QuWFe-fnslvb7C0WBMEso3Jd40YT7jZ5qvHgzXJE3T2QmNxyhjbc91bK_3mjLMnUaBY3GYgtaiC7oB1dBv6dSHEhdlYgf8uAnAc7Djdnn9mNkD_6GTsg/s200/image049.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461649442686068930" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5hFssCdr159-fKT7f7OwbHY7wPrNugpJgOqqjX8ewZ52BWql5GtzTIAj_Ce3cxTbJA_k9PtHQ8KB-BstoRzkBbRjzv4UAZWINJbvM51Kw1U3mvAaFEd-n51eZFOhQC-zSm69EFP7YQBU/s1600/image051.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 92px; height: 69px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5hFssCdr159-fKT7f7OwbHY7wPrNugpJgOqqjX8ewZ52BWql5GtzTIAj_Ce3cxTbJA_k9PtHQ8KB-BstoRzkBbRjzv4UAZWINJbvM51Kw1U3mvAaFEd-n51eZFOhQC-zSm69EFP7YQBU/s200/image051.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461649451132196930" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">MEETING THE FAMILY. </span>We got through the first week of organizing, running from store to store getting prices, returning things and purchasing others for the reception. I got my dress and shoes fitted, reserved a tuxedo for JP, and made my wedding day hair appointment.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiB11Fe1rve_2SUt2ngF-st20GVxn8xoDK7Rs2qZdcCszFIcFZfY6ecUrkTwpkEnL2zfj5V1QH8DJT8FYJOOJKb0ym2OolwY5NCV2VI_1ymuNmss45QSOne50dC6jXdi3-yrixljMiepY/s1600/image053.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 42px; height: 60px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiB11Fe1rve_2SUt2ngF-st20GVxn8xoDK7Rs2qZdcCszFIcFZfY6ecUrkTwpkEnL2zfj5V1QH8DJT8FYJOOJKb0ym2OolwY5NCV2VI_1ymuNmss45QSOne50dC6jXdi3-yrixljMiepY/s200/image053.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461649461471468066" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Af60oMqLZFhhd0HXxeAKot_IGdWP2KQX7Cal5rTC6JPmyeNm0Mz_HFapYbQle9zQpU_LhORAYr61IZ0UV1LovOCHC1v4TCdirLykicjKrY_zAidAz7EtsaKjEo0shsUsE6R8NljApzo/s1600/image055.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 76px; height: 56px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_Af60oMqLZFhhd0HXxeAKot_IGdWP2KQX7Cal5rTC6JPmyeNm0Mz_HFapYbQle9zQpU_LhORAYr61IZ0UV1LovOCHC1v4TCdirLykicjKrY_zAidAz7EtsaKjEo0shsUsE6R8NljApzo/s200/image055.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461650828757250210" border="0" /></a> <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQYbFgIhVjsF_PM8qk4MOnHWI58xw-xh-L9um6AalwFhKCynieiC_2w3A4IZTzypqJc0urWPkjKIgPYnaTJf4_LNrBfG8WtzbKRd6VNv4BC88kphPCxJQS571nd9EnPBJ9L9GGvt7LUBM/s1600/image059.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 71px; height: 52px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQYbFgIhVjsF_PM8qk4MOnHWI58xw-xh-L9um6AalwFhKCynieiC_2w3A4IZTzypqJc0urWPkjKIgPYnaTJf4_LNrBfG8WtzbKRd6VNv4BC88kphPCxJQS571nd9EnPBJ9L9GGvt7LUBM/s200/image059.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461650835358961314" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw34DUWRMn1Cxuv6xK23fpcTXgPZSqu7Ek9ltb6PvZ1MRtr-0hayEF8t0z6H2xcIS8TXPh5UVQprqTaeKgyFMbgyNIUObFhVDSxTUnrWTdh_j4Cns1o5nJGbQsd7T5qUSw9naRI_lmL2o/s1600/image057.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 79px; height: 58px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgw34DUWRMn1Cxuv6xK23fpcTXgPZSqu7Ek9ltb6PvZ1MRtr-0hayEF8t0z6H2xcIS8TXPh5UVQprqTaeKgyFMbgyNIUObFhVDSxTUnrWTdh_j4Cns1o5nJGbQsd7T5qUSw9naRI_lmL2o/s200/image057.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461650831390149122" border="0" /></a> Five days before the wedding, we checked into the Drury Hotel Galleria for our wedding week, courtesy of Houston’s First Baptist Church. A few days before the wedding my sisters arrived from San Francisco and Oregon. It would be Jean-Paul’s first meeting with my family.<br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p><p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKbUU5i3cpvpgAjLvkZCIgfQvsNSI2LcfJbYYeHFQDf9fqFCEJjy4IV9rAj4b_7tkUuustdaR5_RuT7DGPp80LPoQ5bcxNZ24pGTHl2Kw_32wnIJACr6PCKXpaUvB7hvijEYsd3lfInDw/s1600/image063.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 69px; height: 52px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKbUU5i3cpvpgAjLvkZCIgfQvsNSI2LcfJbYYeHFQDf9fqFCEJjy4IV9rAj4b_7tkUuustdaR5_RuT7DGPp80LPoQ5bcxNZ24pGTHl2Kw_32wnIJACr6PCKXpaUvB7hvijEYsd3lfInDw/s200/image063.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461650844881985378" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPbv8Klg-HjPSXc69JiitMudpXCUh84Zx9NNV5kUG_jkKA6Vz8i3CVpMhtyCH4FgZQmLt0BFFVwZty59vPI-FmWaN2-EE2UBnZGDZSgjZAfAwYg9pPBJ1swTvNWjDasG2IJw9HwpdHrLQ/s1600/image061.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 73px; height: 56px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPbv8Klg-HjPSXc69JiitMudpXCUh84Zx9NNV5kUG_jkKA6Vz8i3CVpMhtyCH4FgZQmLt0BFFVwZty59vPI-FmWaN2-EE2UBnZGDZSgjZAfAwYg9pPBJ1swTvNWjDasG2IJw9HwpdHrLQ/s200/image061.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461650840463128082" border="0" /></a> We arranged to take my nephews to the downtown Aquarium,<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMGs6pUp_XCDr0A_zpGy4IWabh-kPcC6X9SLHtKq93ErUZnn6HiPGMQXeoriVlqte5yDmmnbyOpzyWIKDXsMQjc5NZpX9PB24ks8e6xzFbZFJfNqsB6jKdLa7ZnCPLCO44an_KLPshcNM/s1600/image067.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 81px; height: 60px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMGs6pUp_XCDr0A_zpGy4IWabh-kPcC6X9SLHtKq93ErUZnn6HiPGMQXeoriVlqte5yDmmnbyOpzyWIKDXsMQjc5NZpX9PB24ks8e6xzFbZFJfNqsB6jKdLa7ZnCPLCO44an_KLPshcNM/s200/image067.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461653075020820002" border="0" /></a> a mini-amusement park and aquarium museum. So, it was a double treat for JP as he meets my family and sees his first aquarium, shark tank, and amusement park. It was always my dream to see JP and my favorite nephews meet and get along. Oh, what a joy to see my dream come true. Jean-Paul rode his first mini-train through a shark tank tunnel, rode a ferris <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupkqozq23fk7QnaUvK28H5uONKCi51w9d83exieIh0yrgD6F-KkjxFGz3S_T7hy6giuZnioIOySoLSw6R4GcrDgTS22RHmG8xoJG-D7lyZWbshPMYLV7MbVcL8vhShN-_oertqd30lTs/s1600/image065.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 79px; height: 59px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjupkqozq23fk7QnaUvK28H5uONKCi51w9d83exieIh0yrgD6F-KkjxFGz3S_T7hy6giuZnioIOySoLSw6R4GcrDgTS22RHmG8xoJG-D7lyZWbshPMYLV7MbVcL8vhShN-_oertqd30lTs/s200/image065.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461653067923174642" border="0" /></a>wheel in the middle of downtown Houston, won my nephew a toy in a shooting game, saw and touched live fish, and saw his first captive white tiger. What a treat and dream come true for me! My sisters loved him too! <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1053" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:85pt;height:63pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image069.jpg" title="IMG_0720"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1054" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:87pt;height:65pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image071.jpg" title="IMG_0721"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1055" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:85pt;height:64pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image073.jpg" title="IMG_0761"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidta9pNOjDAMAKCdRydwC0AGqI38RgBDdLO11R-egjQGJGAFlX5d7-a3tOsLj_wE4-qz6mAUWpP4d1jI2XGFBRbO42eX3HQfhbEVwAtjAJCfV0261UUBmlN4WbCvoRj44nYK7eLVm5f3o/s1600/image069.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 77px; height: 57px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidta9pNOjDAMAKCdRydwC0AGqI38RgBDdLO11R-egjQGJGAFlX5d7-a3tOsLj_wE4-qz6mAUWpP4d1jI2XGFBRbO42eX3HQfhbEVwAtjAJCfV0261UUBmlN4WbCvoRj44nYK7eLVm5f3o/s200/image069.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461653078899586034" border="0" /></a><!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a style="font-weight: bold;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqt-Y_GYc3lWjUqfotKPsSM2HZFQu4qfCVzDZ7pdyP2x0z1jBZwWxARMivqlNZLtiSYvn-Ri8HY3DYYhS_UItlSG-hD9MNx323-rlW15Xr5H4m2BvqHWiTqNu6iq8Z7-A-x5jq7HIylOc/s1600/image071.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 71px; height: 54px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqt-Y_GYc3lWjUqfotKPsSM2HZFQu4qfCVzDZ7pdyP2x0z1jBZwWxARMivqlNZLtiSYvn-Ri8HY3DYYhS_UItlSG-hD9MNx323-rlW15Xr5H4m2BvqHWiTqNu6iq8Z7-A-x5jq7HIylOc/s200/image071.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461653083726034322" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS9bZ035OYngN193NAQBycOLRxxEpxSZ0e1e_Uel-OiysSR1qsA84zpABxU9BXPWSFtXGOa7oZd9oKhHZ54e8Zcp9b9mglsUjhvdrOffUrA__8NHRvzKemtD5uNTin4XMTdQECh5p_MZo/s1600/image073.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 78px; height: 59px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS9bZ035OYngN193NAQBycOLRxxEpxSZ0e1e_Uel-OiysSR1qsA84zpABxU9BXPWSFtXGOa7oZd9oKhHZ54e8Zcp9b9mglsUjhvdrOffUrA__8NHRvzKemtD5uNTin4XMTdQECh5p_MZo/s200/image073.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461653087743218306" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">JP GETS SICK</span><o:p style="font-weight: bold;"></o:p><span style="font-weight: bold;">. </span>Two days before the wedding, JP’s diabetes starts up again and got progressively worse. My church’s Missions Pastor sent us to a local Christian doctor and covered the expense. JP’s blood glucose level was extremely high so the doctor gave him insulin injections, a glucose meter, and medication. That night JP’s migraines became intolerably explosive to the point of nausea and tears. I called the doctor and he recommended that I take him to the hospital emergency. First we quickly called the church in Rwanda to ask for prayers. After a few hours of sleep, JP began to feel better so we avoided the hospital. The next day he continued to get better so we continued the treatments as the doctor prescribed. Thank God almighty! Thanks Dr. Su and William. Later on we heard that the entire church got down on their knees and were praying for Jean-Paul to get better. Thank you ERC family!<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcBgVUYmmw_YdHayBLNw1UEHwHtEzge8hwzjsSfsWkarPuXGCuHuEZFS453IDvG-lbMGaboftA8Yf7LBwAaLtNdDh9fhMTV7kBGA2ooRrQfDuT8Lfj9DA3TookZXZUr6msDX0uyWI7TLQ/s1600/image075.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 78px; height: 47px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcBgVUYmmw_YdHayBLNw1UEHwHtEzge8hwzjsSfsWkarPuXGCuHuEZFS453IDvG-lbMGaboftA8Yf7LBwAaLtNdDh9fhMTV7kBGA2ooRrQfDuT8Lfj9DA3TookZXZUr6msDX0uyWI7TLQ/s200/image075.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461655173075646914" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">REHEARSAL & DINNER</span><o:p></o:p>. Friday evening we meet at the church for rehearsal. We did a quick run down of the wedding. Afterwards, we had a nice rehearsal dinner with my family and bridesmaids at my sisters restaurant Hunan Downtown. It was a nice reunion of my family members.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8jC9RPoehKkbw0pCmEL8qYkcxwkkq5O9k8CkMyTWqmUGmOI876NvC581z7orUrOxG2vMtiwc0h9642Z3XXpX9ZeY9LJaj5Csz_tNr_NE3WBKLQwD1kcPd3NFP1U006zTIPUFN-sOXMmQ/s1600/image083.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 46px; height: 72px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8jC9RPoehKkbw0pCmEL8qYkcxwkkq5O9k8CkMyTWqmUGmOI876NvC581z7orUrOxG2vMtiwc0h9642Z3XXpX9ZeY9LJaj5Csz_tNr_NE3WBKLQwD1kcPd3NFP1U006zTIPUFN-sOXMmQ/s200/image083.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461655186882464178" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">WED</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3i6rqPLknHxMkjBW0JPzn4t_puybGn5qpoF2evvqg5DLmjflFLc3rEJygWwziqpdPkedX7s47MynpHJzZJi34inGSeKA-_NLU33fQfME4gcPag6Fp-aES2S5iXSBUXW6LWWFu2NO2dMY/s1600/image077.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 44px; height: 68px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3i6rqPLknHxMkjBW0JPzn4t_puybGn5qpoF2evvqg5DLmjflFLc3rEJygWwziqpdPkedX7s47MynpHJzZJi34inGSeKA-_NLU33fQfME4gcPag6Fp-aES2S5iXSBUXW6LWWFu2NO2dMY/s200/image077.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461655178756045906" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">DING DAY</span><o:p></o:p>. It's Saturday, March 27th and it’s my wedding day. I get up early to go for my hair appointment. Farida, my favorite hairdresser at Visible Changes, puts me in curls for a sweet soft look since I wasn’t using a veil and wanted to just put flowers in my hair.</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsk-Ct0gdv3dnpAgdMCiqCxlnwS2zoMq36CpLjEGd8lK6raPXmBVFHIuNKSFSO4oLR8KQOHWEKN-6AxJylBDQZu0UbBMlDJ2KPbyrWCV6bxDHXf1Pqh5_IBTGFV6UrRvl2Fujh-lWGpA/s1600/image081.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 42px; height: 64px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHsk-Ct0gdv3dnpAgdMCiqCxlnwS2zoMq36CpLjEGd8lK6raPXmBVFHIuNKSFSO4oLR8KQOHWEKN-6AxJylBDQZu0UbBMlDJ2KPbyrWCV6bxDHXf1Pqh5_IBTGFV6UrRvl2Fujh-lWGpA/s200/image081.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461655785263031506" border="0" /></a>We g<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie56iuEeEm1oAfCdd_kKElRxIskXTY57hmGVz-wC1FNApF1c4KTaNibiHXzs8gnUswng_LNLxyTlEI657uvenlVaHncJL0D8UExriyBeJUpEIkG41KukjHm_YcJob9jAyMeNtAUmHX4b8/s1600/image079.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 45px; height: 68px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEie56iuEeEm1oAfCdd_kKElRxIskXTY57hmGVz-wC1FNApF1c4KTaNibiHXzs8gnUswng_LNLxyTlEI657uvenlVaHncJL0D8UExriyBeJUpEIkG41KukjHm_YcJob9jAyMeNtAUmHX4b8/s200/image079.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461655181923418562" border="0" /></a>et to the church and I begin to take a look at the table settings. Thank God for my friends Saba and Ben who volunteered to go pick up coffee. Karen was also a lifesaver with the table decorations. The wedding coordinator Debbie was fabulous. She took over everything and told me not to worry and to go just get myself ready. I went to the bride’s room to put on my makeup and dress, and do my hair. The next thing I knew it was time to enter the chapel for the wedding.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">MIRACLE PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEO</span><o:p></o:p>. We had no funds for professional photography, but I wanted nice photos to testify of this blessed moment. My friend Stan had another engagement, but a few days before the wedding he found two fabulous Christian photographers, Topher and Marlo, who donated their services so graciously to capture this miraculous event. They really bent over backwards to take wonderful photos and get us a few to take home before we leave. God bless their hearts! This is God’s extraordinary favor.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">A filmmaker friend from Rwanda was supposed to come take professional video and edit a wonderful video for us, but he canceled the last minute and couldn’t make it to America so we were strapped for a videographer the day before the wedding<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Rcp7NZtrwP9sEIguQ825H0G3GL_w1cOBXGbq5bxTSShuMP7ab0Iueyzde3-wThyoSpXos4jnkE7OJgsokp_OediFg2ivdgMWTngl5MXBNctfauAFlbzs-aA-d67eYdllU56o-5wfBDs/s1600/image095.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 114px; height: 76px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Rcp7NZtrwP9sEIguQ825H0G3GL_w1cOBXGbq5bxTSShuMP7ab0Iueyzde3-wThyoSpXos4jnkE7OJgsokp_OediFg2ivdgMWTngl5MXBNctfauAFlbzs-aA-d67eYdllU56o-5wfBDs/s200/image095.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461659637725786354" border="0" /></a>. W<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQvW2kyZ9BJSe2vBQx2cB18nLjq0tbCxgDvmj_dUaoJWY5ajXM7AF8St6oGmgwXJUZF3T3vINCl9ahjuMeCbreBbQ4mqoH8Qp-SgaIUJnxDWTIYeFwBH8HW1-qJeXlTxKbsiZoYE5swU/s1600/image089.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 116px; height: 77px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQvW2kyZ9BJSe2vBQx2cB18nLjq0tbCxgDvmj_dUaoJWY5ajXM7AF8St6oGmgwXJUZF3T3vINCl9ahjuMeCbreBbQ4mqoH8Qp-SgaIUJnxDWTIYeFwBH8HW1-qJeXlTxKbsiZoYE5swU/s200/image089.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461657101625748706" border="0" /></a>e were down to the wire in our funds so I got desperate and reached out on facebook. My good friend Kelly came to the rescue and answered my facebook call, volunteering to shoot the video with my camera. Praise God!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1061" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:64pt;height:96pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image085.jpg" title="825842854_6UcoZ-L"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1062" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:66pt;height:98pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image087.jpg" title="825939748_iNUrM-L"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1063" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:148pt;height:98pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image089.jpg" title="825666965_RdBH9-L"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1064" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:66pt;height:98pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image091.jpg" title="825660505_kzJeC-L"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1065" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:66pt;height:98pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image093.jpg" title="825662825_bMASK-L"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1066" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:146pt;height:96pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image095.jpg" title="825675470_H8gvE-L"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></p> <p style="font-weight: bold;" class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1070" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:94pt;height:63pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image103.jpg" title="830012285_eGhiL-L"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1071" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:42pt;height:63pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image105.jpg" title="825665238_DXbqE-L"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1072" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:94pt;height:63pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image107.jpg" title="830028601_mp3jz-L"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1073" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:44pt;height:67pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image109.jpg" title="IMG_8384"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsT9CmTdnkJ-vw21ZQDBsZDo-qKoqqOAumhkmaBUmo6LaMNb32KboRowxhptul2p8B652ksrWlxnBRh4m9gaFtTMVkMtntLFQufvZjNtECjClyq0GgGyLsqRgLL9k9Bv93UMeBFs2TRM/s1600/image091.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 51px; height: 76px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPsT9CmTdnkJ-vw21ZQDBsZDo-qKoqqOAumhkmaBUmo6LaMNb32KboRowxhptul2p8B652ksrWlxnBRh4m9gaFtTMVkMtntLFQufvZjNtECjClyq0GgGyLsqRgLL9k9Bv93UMeBFs2TRM/s200/image091.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461657108379650546" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">W</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9npppu2rtNYrHjwSP224fZdncOYWgabMNBy8ebwo0JqoRZADRtW5g2lXLungNN1bajXxztXrRnPTVySLUyQChXnZpASzgrTnegmGduCtckf4KSKF82Ksk139U8y1VfkN40HAkCp8KERc/s1600/image093.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 50px; height: 77px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9npppu2rtNYrHjwSP224fZdncOYWgabMNBy8ebwo0JqoRZADRtW5g2lXLungNN1bajXxztXrRnPTVySLUyQChXnZpASzgrTnegmGduCtckf4KSKF82Ksk139U8y1VfkN40HAkCp8KERc/s200/image093.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461657110246128162" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">EDDING SURPRISES</span><o:p></o:p>. I knew my sister was getting me a cake and some bouquets and boutonnières for the wedding, but when I saw the beautiful three tiered cake covered with sugar flowers and the chocolate covered groom’s cake surrounded by chocolate dipped strawberries, it was an awesome sight. Then, Debbie came to ask me what to do with the huge altar vases. Should she put them on the floor becauser they are so huge? I didn’t know what she was talking about because I had ordered some simple flower arrangements for t<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSEbj_1hLJPyqhxQUvTvh5L-aKKGC9nk5JkEAdWmOAdHbSpn0xISkcCkQnxK5qJ02kG0OHDM69rEDOLXtPteMggOb3oWziRk-O5nrOoBP7A_fR4MzWk3oiozUp3dypHczn-8zZKq_sHeA/s1600/image087.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 48px; height: 71px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSEbj_1hLJPyqhxQUvTvh5L-aKKGC9nk5JkEAdWmOAdHbSpn0xISkcCkQnxK5qJ02kG0OHDM69rEDOLXtPteMggOb3oWziRk-O5nrOoBP7A_fR4MzWk3oiozUp3dypHczn-8zZKq_sHeA/s200/image087.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461657096969900482" border="0" /></a>h<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCC_6ppszyApYeoWei9lwK-9jAOs6Hj29jV5959P7LyQImI5jPhyF0QmkoOaiAzhW3Ik-3TyBFM_Aorl93Jd7daa0AJaNc5Qn4Zj3u13ldhSfEKcG7IQ2CK3ji4bO0wQ9ASNuvr9Nch7I/s1600/image085.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 48px; height: 72px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCC_6ppszyApYeoWei9lwK-9jAOs6Hj29jV5959P7LyQImI5jPhyF0QmkoOaiAzhW3Ik-3TyBFM_Aorl93Jd7daa0AJaNc5Qn4Zj3u13ldhSfEKcG7IQ2CK3ji4bO0wQ9ASNuvr9Nch7I/s200/image085.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461657095587424578" border="0" /></a>e altar. My eyes were amazed when I went to see. In the chapel were two of the largest red rose arrangements I had ever seen. Each rose was gigantically the size of my stretched hand. They were the most beautiful rose arrangements I had ever seen in my life. Everyone was in total awe of the flowers. I was not expecting such a beautiful thing for my humble wedding. This doesn’t end. Then came the bouquets and boutonnières. They were also huge and beautiful. My sister Gigi had surprised me with the flowers and cakes and really spiced up my wedding. I was so happy because I knew God was so glorified by this act of beauty and kindness provided by my sister. Now everyone could see truly what God had done by this wedding.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU8opOJ_jMAL2w4LDNa9S_fHc6fcV3XYzaL1AoNJZ30PV9N9-Thn8Ac2OMGL_HNe4ktIZLuxj9Wng8a8LzMsjCl2VQtbXEM_NxXCZ1upPJB4b06u4h00fmBHKG_mpPlzcLGnnPbS1Pbl8/s1600/image097.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 96px; height: 65px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU8opOJ_jMAL2w4LDNa9S_fHc6fcV3XYzaL1AoNJZ30PV9N9-Thn8Ac2OMGL_HNe4ktIZLuxj9Wng8a8LzMsjCl2VQtbXEM_NxXCZ1upPJB4b06u4h00fmBHKG_mpPlzcLGnnPbS1Pbl8/s200/image097.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461659638394633122" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">THE</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfGNtU5XAZ76dm2a9J0WTKJR0aNYujgd12LNREx2PhkwTNkCF0ts-0spsHDoF75dTKZ2lVsyTmtICmDUo3e1fV2LuRq2Ev6_84nDmT8rcdAQPoYFXHxOo2sIcxSTE7hcwIRmAXyd163jY/s1600/image101.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 42px; height: 64px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfGNtU5XAZ76dm2a9J0WTKJR0aNYujgd12LNREx2PhkwTNkCF0ts-0spsHDoF75dTKZ2lVsyTmtICmDUo3e1fV2LuRq2Ev6_84nDmT8rcdAQPoYFXHxOo2sIcxSTE7hcwIRmAXyd163jY/s200/image101.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461659647639575922" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;"> WEDDING PARTY</span><o:p></o:p>. Oh, the wedding party was an entourage of loved ones. My nephews Cody and Tyler were flower boy and ring bearer. My precious brother Andrew walked me down the aisle and gave me away, in place of my father who could not attend. My mom was there with my brother Justin who was the best man. My baby sister Christine was my maid of honor. My best friends Beth and Amy were beautiful bridesmaids. My niece Ella was the photo beautifier. My sisters Nancy, Shirley, Gigi, and nephew Beckett were also present to <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiilNToQReXCwp3rgxxcVBVHcj03G6zdSXKARxySMltK_z4qDHzlotGK8bjZ99kq1RkJ9RmjTt4FhgW0guhql-58yE6-Tz7M4FVJuXGVNjBXagjYXx-9go0NphHMsJMMUDWCGO_MA3LcC0/s1600/image099.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 99px; height: 66px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiilNToQReXCwp3rgxxcVBVHcj03G6zdSXKARxySMltK_z4qDHzlotGK8bjZ99kq1RkJ9RmjTt4FhgW0guhql-58yE6-Tz7M4FVJuXGVNjBXagjYXx-9go0NphHMsJMMUDWCGO_MA3LcC0/s200/image099.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461659642779055410" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOoQm-831d1ChFaP-AXe6J0_gHqu83poOIUL8aI8tQDZ-qWEDho7ITerZhW9xmW3Nsghg9ySpyaDLMUQU2SvsLV6hoCG1Ilon_cB2sU3Uh10nWd_tqqC2q1cMtBsortZ3GFNqi1i_ZHLM/s1600/image103.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 97px; height: 65px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOoQm-831d1ChFaP-AXe6J0_gHqu83poOIUL8aI8tQDZ-qWEDho7ITerZhW9xmW3Nsghg9ySpyaDLMUQU2SvsLV6hoCG1Ilon_cB2sU3Uh10nWd_tqqC2q1cMtBsortZ3GFNqi1i_ZHLM/s200/image103.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461672957959100706" border="0" /></a>represent my family. My friend Fred and his wife Josephine (pastors of Victory Mission Church Rwanda) read opening verses in English and Kinyarwanda. All these people flew or drove many hours to partake in our wedding. Don Munton kindly donated his time as the wedding minister. And many wonderful friends from all over the globe came to bless us. This was the second happiest day of my life (the first was when I found Christ). Oh, there was absolutely no nervousness in me after I put on the dress, but complete peace when I walked down the aisle and saw Jean-Paul waiting for me at the altar. It was thrilling to see the sweet faces of family and friends in the chapel witnessing this union of love.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgICI3DroyO7CKXTe6Th1CIOXANCjn6sw0DkvJqkDinB9itvyRpuur67BM3XQidYJEFySbcdu8s_D5CAyHboKIeqwbUQjUO5hjZBaGNLi0FituJXQsDnp74awExOA5fnGKb1Ruqy9oOfQ/s1600/image113.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 91px; height: 60px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgICI3DroyO7CKXTe6Th1CIOXANCjn6sw0DkvJqkDinB9itvyRpuur67BM3XQidYJEFySbcdu8s_D5CAyHboKIeqwbUQjUO5hjZBaGNLi0FituJXQsDnp74awExOA5fnGKb1Ruqy9oOfQ/s200/image113.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461672972723521842" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsGefGlu0chnr8JXT4kF4EgZ0bi8oyUy12NkXdQqzbEtXrVU9zoIon3D336MJGjtEfa_YiPew72zq1hQ2tYQqnQCiW-3FwRtctAkSa2R3b8cUk9atTMrg_WcUXphMDVUV-rzbq2zv2aGo/s1600/image107.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 88px; height: 60px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsGefGlu0chnr8JXT4kF4EgZ0bi8oyUy12NkXdQqzbEtXrVU9zoIon3D336MJGjtEfa_YiPew72zq1hQ2tYQqnQCiW-3FwRtctAkSa2R3b8cUk9atTMrg_WcUXphMDVUV-rzbq2zv2aGo/s200/image107.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5461672965626021602" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">WEDDING PHOTOS</span><o:p></o:p>. I don’t want to add more words so we can get to the photos. I’m going to end this blog with a few more wedding photos. You can view more by clicking this link to <a href="http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8QcNHLFuxaPxA">Our Miracle Wedding</a>. Just uploading a few photos onto the blog took centuries and then it just reached its limit. We had a truly blessed trip and a superblessed wedding. I believe God was glorified at all the presence of love and compassion. I will come back later to describe the aftermath of our wedding trip. Love ya! Enjoy!<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1078" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:103pt;height:69pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image119.jpg" title="IMG_7833"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1079" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:105pt;height:70pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image121.jpg" title="830031516_ur2Fr-L"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><span style=""> </span><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1080" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:103pt;height:68pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image123.jpg" title="825809507_oWR5E-L"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--></p><!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_i1081" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'width:94pt;height:62pt'"> <v:imagedata src="BTR16_041910_files/image125.jpg" title="825468982_Dx32n-L"></v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></b></p> <p style="font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>TO OUR LOVED ONES IN USA & RWANDA. THANK YOU ALL SOOOO MUCH!<o:p></o:p></b> I want to thank every single person who gave us their hearts to make this event so wonderful and such a miracle of God. Thank you Apostle Masasu, Mama Lydia, Michel and all of Evangelical Restoration Church Remera for your love and blessings. You may not have been there inn flesh, but you were with us in spirit and we felt it. Thanks to all my family for making the long trip to be there for me and for welcoming JP with such love and kindness. It meant so much to me to have my family there. Thanks to Beth and Amy for all their help and encouragement. Thanks to Karen, Ben, Saba and Barbara for helping with the reception. Thank you anonymous donors for the airplane tickets. We're so grateful. Thanks to Stan, Marlo and Topher for the beautiful photos and more to come. Thanks to Harvey & Bonnie for the car. Thanks to Fred and Josephine for coming such a long way to bless us and pray over us. Thanks to the Kovaly’s for opening their house to us. Thanks to William Taylor and HFBC Missions Department for the hotel and doctor. Thanks to Dr. Su and the dentist for caring for JP. Thanks to all our friends who came to bless us and all who sent us gifts. And we hope we have not forgotten anybody. Words can’t express the magnitude of our appreciation and love for you all! WE LOVE YOU ALL!!!!!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p style="font-style: italic;" class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-weight: bold;">MOST OF ALL, THANK YOU GOD!</span><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">Lord God, thank you for taking me from nowhere and showing me the love of Your Son and the love of the Family of Christ. Thanks for choosing me for this mission and taking care of me all these years. Thanks for saving Jean-Paul through hardship and war. Thanks for giving him to me now as my life partner. Thanks for taking care of our wedding. I know that you've been glorified by all the love that showed through our wedding. Bless our friends and family. JP and I love you so much and we are overwhelmed with love and gratitude. Please be with us in our marriage and family. We love each other sooo much. The road ahead is covered with strife and uncertainty, but Your Love strengthens us for the journey ahead. We know that you are with us and we are covered by the blood, the Love of Christ Jesus and destined for victory. Lord we follow you and forge ahead, focused on your Glory. Amen.<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Love in Christ Jesus,<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b><span style="font-size:100%;">Linda & Jean-Paul</span><o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>Bigirindavyi (pronounced "biggie-ring-daav-yee")<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">PRAISE GOD!!!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <ul><li><span style="font-size:85%;">For a wonderful wedding, trip and return<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">For all our loved ones in both USA and Rwanda<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">PRAYER REQUESTS<o:p></o:p></span></p> <ul><li><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:85%;">God’s plans and direction for our life together and for the ministry<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">Speedy 501c3 approval for Urukundo for the Children, Inc. (we need this in order to secure grants and greater funds needed to operate the ministry and begin programs and partnerships in Rwanda)<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >JP’s I-130 (US Spousal Green Card Petition) & K3 Visa<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">Jean-Paul continued health - diabetes<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><!--[if !supportLists]--><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">A job for Linda - "tentmaking" to survive in Rwanda<br /></span></li><li><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style="font-size:85%;">Peace & safety in Rwanda especially during this year of re-elections<o:p></o:p></span></li><li><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">Jean-Paul’s family in Burundi - health and welfare<o:p></o:p></span></li></ul> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:85%;" ><b>WEDDING GIFTS THANKS<o:p></o:p>: A great big thank you to all who contributed gifts to help make this Miracle Wedding such a testimony for God. The funds really made a huge difference. Thank you all from the bottom of our hearts.</b></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p></o:p></span> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><i>PLEASE SUBSCRIBE: If you have not already done so, please subscribe to “Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter” by entering your email address in the subscription field to the right. FeedBurner will send you a CONFIRMATION EMAIL that you must REPLY TO CONFIRM in order to activate your subscription. Please, pass the subscription and blog site on to others to share the testimony and raise support for the mission. God bless you!</i></span><span style=""><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style=""><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> </div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-32014012903507625282010-03-13T03:51:00.000-08:002010-03-13T03:52:31.241-08:00The Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Volume 15<span style="font-size:10pt;"><span style="font-size:85%;">[Click on photos to view larger. Click BACK to return to blog]<o:p></o:p></span><i><span style="font-size:85%;"> In the name of Jesus, I cover this blog and all the information and incidents in the Blood of Christ, that the projects, contents and words would be unharmed. Amen</span><o:p></o:p></i></span> <p class="MsoNormal"><b><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shapetype id="_x0000_t75" coordsize="21600,21600" spt="75" preferrelative="t" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" filled="f" stroked="f"> <v:stroke joinstyle="miter"> <v:formulas> <v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"> <v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"> <v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"> <v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"> <v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"> <v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"> <v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"> <v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"> <v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"> <v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"> </v:formulas> <v:path extrusionok="f" gradientshapeok="t" connecttype="rect"> <o:lock ext="edit" aspectratio="t"> </v:shapetype><v:shape id="_x0000_s1026" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'position:absolute;"> <v:imagedata src="file://localhost/Users/lindahuang/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip1/01/clip_image001.png" title="Houston"> <w:wrap type="square"> </v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_s1027" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'position:absolute;margin-left:211.05pt;"> <v:imagedata src="file://localhost/Users/lindahuang/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip1/01/clip_image003.jpg" title="IMG_0516"> <w:wrap type="square"> </v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6YywiHgXfPv3lV5OYxhLEsCBtnuZLehB-hkgWZijoOKjGQjNiVVGMT9tTtahsDLPwfV0He6chxxQWH4ruuN1ZMKhQpjiKfvw_SfI9J3fm1wb82fwgjus_ODtL1OHaLHA1n8Up_hRmKQ/s1600-h/image001.png"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 238px; height: 137px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu6YywiHgXfPv3lV5OYxhLEsCBtnuZLehB-hkgWZijoOKjGQjNiVVGMT9tTtahsDLPwfV0He6chxxQWH4ruuN1ZMKhQpjiKfvw_SfI9J3fm1wb82fwgjus_ODtL1OHaLHA1n8Up_hRmKQ/s200/image001.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448075433921945074" border="0" /></a><b>March 11, 2010, KIGALI, RWANDA</b><span style="font-weight: normal;"> – HOUSTON, HERE WE COME! Today we left for my hometown of Houston, Texas in America for my miracle wedding to my miracle fiancé. The last few months have been quite the faith trip and I have seen God continue to show me His faithfulness in </span><span style="font-weight: normal;">all my challenges. My mind reflects back at all I’ve been through and where I am now and the mysterious unknown ahead.<br /></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="font-weight: normal;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_s1029" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'position:absolute;margin-left:0;margin-top:151.4pt;width:112.05pt;"> <v:imagedata src="file://localhost/Users/lindahuang/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip1/01/clip_image005.jpg" title="IMG_0526"> <w:wrap type="square"> </v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_s1028" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'position:absolute;margin-left:4.05pt;"> <v:imagedata src="file://localhost/Users/lindahuang/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip1/01/clip_image007.jpg" title="IMG_0524"> <w:wrap type="square"> </v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]-->As we headed off to Kigali airport, our church family and friends sent us off with warmth and love. We are so touched by their love, all of us un<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyTbz0C109szy3NuD4luNrYIsIEmqAOvsHCsJInlkLPb2HaBa6Pw9bHdfHnbJ_yCLJsCgxqLcG6jo3mWJvdIe39UhIBNhFSYcf_UAT4aBzB6jrUz8YbkzTgq0NFkxPv0K-nRmsmU5_ek/s1600-h/image003.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 124px; height: 93px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidyTbz0C109szy3NuD4luNrYIsIEmqAOvsHCsJInlkLPb2HaBa6Pw9bHdfHnbJ_yCLJsCgxqLcG6jo3mWJvdIe39UhIBNhFSYcf_UAT4aBzB6jrUz8YbkzTgq0NFkxPv0K-nRmsmU5_ek/s200/image003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448076092174105298" border="0" /></a>ited by the love of God. I look at Jean-Paul and I think how wonderful it is to do this with my best friend in the whole world. God has always been with me, but now I am even more so covered in His blood with my partner on earth and both our church families. And we weather through life’s challenges together, in faith, sharing also in God’s blessings. Thank you, Lord!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuFVKBpJllwiyfM-SGDRaj68elvV6pkdlgeKIFwMLS5wpdIhqQl0GZKcUjXLjdz_E-M7ElhvP3td9KcUYhuupt7xwGUzqOo66Co4L6Qxk037U15TpQBTiVSn67M-TGlVIlK_J-5xmFgs/s1600-h/image005.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 141px; height: 105px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXuFVKBpJllwiyfM-SGDRaj68elvV6pkdlgeKIFwMLS5wpdIhqQl0GZKcUjXLjdz_E-M7ElhvP3td9KcUYhuupt7xwGUzqOo66Co4L6Qxk037U15TpQBTiVSn67M-TGlVIlK_J-5xmFgs/s200/image005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448076356529672642" border="0" /></a></p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGjVb4-CcXqn4QJyanvaXHWd2eSxZuBrTWjkp2iRKwpUXht2Xxr0_YGhQ8b7hCHAQjskLSB4pRAoXD3T3Em3IO4FqfVU6ICd2Qo9a3btTcA05t7Ma7uNgIzLe6W5tgKx7PinVpWyaFWig/s1600-h/image007.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 101px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGjVb4-CcXqn4QJyanvaXHWd2eSxZuBrTWjkp2iRKwpUXht2Xxr0_YGhQ8b7hCHAQjskLSB4pRAoXD3T3Em3IO4FqfVU6ICd2Qo9a3btTcA05t7Ma7uNgIzLe6W5tgKx7PinVpWyaFWig/s200/image007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448076606114269570" border="0" /></a><br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]-->PRINCE CHARMING & MILESTONES<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">My friend Anita said “I can’t wait to meet your prince charming.” The truth is I had my wishes, but never dreamed I’d be normal enough to have a prince charming or a dream wedding. I went through most of my life telling myself to face up to my abnormal life and be strong. Then, I found Christ Jesus and He changed my life, called me to Rwanda to serve Him and sustains me through everything. If you’ve read my previous blogs introducing my fiancé, you know that I prayed for a husband in these last few years. Before I came to Rwanda, God put me in my place and told me not to underestimate what He can do for me if I desired it with all my heart. So, I desired a partner to walk with me in serving God. I prayed for an earthly protector and a family. I desired to start a new generation in my family of servants unto God, at our utmost – a generation founded on LOVE, the love of God and close love for each other.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_s1030" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'position:absolute;margin-left:4.05pt;margin-top:2pt;width:90.8pt;"> <v:imagedata src="file://localhost/Users/lindahuang/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip1/01/clip_image009.jpg" title="IMG_0008"> <w:wrap type="square"> </v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1G0nsBbeBsgekfGLZCBckLh6G6TCJdh3fR8jgXDAbP2bu3kCnhHZfuTzVGwIP_Sy6C7eDaX8_skOWBLsXWuaamMT-bj-24Ocbtb8fvqUkk7L9eoXRfmu4kAmCRIP86RUBV_YYnfOgyE/s1600-h/image009.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 99px; height: 132px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx1G0nsBbeBsgekfGLZCBckLh6G6TCJdh3fR8jgXDAbP2bu3kCnhHZfuTzVGwIP_Sy6C7eDaX8_skOWBLsXWuaamMT-bj-24Ocbtb8fvqUkk7L9eoXRfmu4kAmCRIP86RUBV_YYnfOgyE/s200/image009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448077026211815970" border="0" /></a>Bigirindavy…Mrs. Bigirindavy…In a few weeks I trade my one-syllable surname of Chinese origin meaning “yellow” or “emperor” for a five-syllable name meaning “God watches over you.” In Africa some people don’t take the family name of their father so this will be the first generation of Bigirindavyi’s. But most wonderful is carrying on the meaning of the namesake. We are missionaries in God’s watch. And the name has already proven its truth in the testimonies of both Jean-Paul’s and my life. And JP’s first name takes on the names of the two greatest missionaries for Christ, John and Paul. What more can I ask for? Let’s not forget the miracle of how God put us together. It’s like our prayers came from two different directions at the same time and found each other. Mrs. Linda Huang Bigirindavyi can now mean “Christ the everlasting King who watches over us.”<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if gte vml 1]><v:shape id="_x0000_s1031" type="#_x0000_t75" style="'position:absolute;margin-left:193.05pt;margin-top:5.65pt;width:139.5pt;"> <v:imagedata src="file://localhost/Users/lindahuang/Library/Caches/TemporaryItems/msoclip1/01/clip_image011.jpg" title="IMG_0200"> <w:wrap type="square"> </v:shape><![endif]--><!--[if !vml]--><!--[endif]--><br /></p><p class="MsoNormal">However, my true prince charming doesn’t come from a fairy tale, but from truth. Christ Jesus is my prince charming and He swept me off my feet, pulling me from a life of endless search for significance and “looking for love in all the wrong places.” Jesus is the knight in shining armor of my life. But Jean-Paul is my desire, my earthly joy, my partner, reward and blessing. And he’s a part of the plan that God knitted for my life and purpose as he knitted me in my mother’s womb. As I grow in my faithwalk and review the milestones of my journey, the obstacles I’ve faced and how God has brought me th<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo035C1lJKOYVcudEhbQSvyMGo3RlBRc3AfQz5KOzM-oflAubENKs8G9NTBDg6JAOW-Dpij6v8_g7mcfVshzfr6DXDdRcAHCyaAmgsr9XZWGy1uTOkMWnfE8fP08SOtp60dR147jWKwas/s1600-h/image011.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 144px; height: 109px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo035C1lJKOYVcudEhbQSvyMGo3RlBRc3AfQz5KOzM-oflAubENKs8G9NTBDg6JAOW-Dpij6v8_g7mcfVshzfr6DXDdRcAHCyaAmgsr9XZWGy1uTOkMWnfE8fP08SOtp60dR147jWKwas/s200/image011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448077450624769042" border="0" /></a>rough again and again, I see how God marks my life with these milestones that he predetermined. And as I reach each milestone, its not a sense of nostalgia (which is an emotional feeling of looking back), but more a sense of reaching the right places in my life, finally getting closer to somewhere that I’ve been trying to reach. Each time you hit a milestone, it’s like a sense of peace and relief, but you know you have another milestone to get to. The Bible says we are to build memorials to God at our milestones.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">A LIST OF MIRACLES<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">The list just keeps growing. We began this engagement with zero funds. As of a few weeks ago we still had zero funds, but by faith we had organized a miracle wedding in Houston, Texas to share God’s miracle with all who’ve walked with me through this mission. Because time had ticked away we were debating getting into debt to make this wedding happen, but I told Jean-Paul that I didn’t feel right about starting this marriage in debt. And my spirit and experience told me that debt is the tool of the enemy, not of Christian faith. I heard a voice inside me remind me of Abraham and Sarah and how they had faith, but got weary and created a Hagar and Ishmael whose lineage now is doomed to toil in hardship and dispute. This is what happens when we act upon our weariness and impatient moments of fear and doubt. God reminded me to wait. I knew He’d come through just as He did for Abraham when He was about to sacrifice Isaac in obedience to God. So, we waited and did not take debt. We waited and prayed. <o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Just a few weeks ago I was informed by my church in Houston that some donors from the church had given money to the church designated to buying us the airplane tickets to attend our own wedding. We were ecstatic and overwhelmed with joy at God’s faithfulness. Even in all our fleshly worry, we knew He’d come through, that He wouldn’t forsake us, nor would He leave His blessing incomplete.<br /></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Another true miracle is that JP has also completely healed of diabetes after almost dying (he has been off medication and eating normally, but carefully, for months now). Last May he was almost on his death bed. I found him losing 20 pounds in one week, constantly sleeping, thirsting and going to the bathroom. No matter how much I fed him, he got thinner and thinner. We finally got him on some medication and he started stabilizing gradually and putting on some weight. We also changed his diet to cut out sugars and starches, a devastating experience for him. Even on the meds, he was weak. My mother sent us a glucose meter and we had to measure his blood frequently. We prayed and prayed for complete recovery because it’s very difficult to have a starch free diet and sustain on costly medication. A few months ago funds got tight and we just didn’t have much money for his meds so he skipped a few days. Miraculously he seemed fine so we kept him off it. It’s been almost 3 months now and he’s fine without the meds. He gets a little weak periodically so we still watch his diet, but he’s pretty much completely healed. It’s a miracle indeed!<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">This was another of a long list of miracles paving a pathway to this marriage. Starting with little funds for our wedding made us pray hard for God’s confirmation of this marriage. He definitely confirmed that it is His will for us to unite. Most of the wedding came from in-kind donations of places to stay, loaner car, etc.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">When we first got engaged, I told JP that my dream would be to see him play with my favorite nephew Tyler and have them both at the wedding. Now, this dream is coming true. My two favorite people on earth shall be with me on my wedding day. Praise God!!!!</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguwbcCSGV-v89Jr3XQWKv7IMAKiC3F92wVgti8nXxK_KQ0ebMzMEW87BCXWUU2AV5-uCw2-mMuz1nKobMoIUk8ZF7Sf6rjO503zj4V4b4Ff_fHwhGRYZQ7EG76_tRYJ_evbf2DHya29uI/s1600-h/Picture+1.png"><br /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal">GOD SHOWS US THE CHURCH INDEED!<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">God has shown us The Church indeed! The unity of two church families as proof of the One </p><p class="MsoNormal"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguwbcCSGV-v89Jr3XQWKv7IMAKiC3F92wVgti8nXxK_KQ0ebMzMEW87BCXWUU2AV5-uCw2-mMuz1nKobMoIUk8ZF7Sf6rjO503zj4V4b4Ff_fHwhGRYZQ7EG76_tRYJ_evbf2DHya29uI/s1600-h/Picture+1.png"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 40px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguwbcCSGV-v89Jr3XQWKv7IMAKiC3F92wVgti8nXxK_KQ0ebMzMEW87BCXWUU2AV5-uCw2-mMuz1nKobMoIUk8ZF7Sf6rjO503zj4V4b4Ff_fHwhGRYZQ7EG76_tRYJ_evbf2DHya29uI/s200/Picture+1.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448080386579029202" border="0" /></a></p> <p class="MsoNormal">Body <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeUZWf8oSe6TOonyWPipMKcSCY9w_EUj1xgkotgPJSNXshfVlq3-1vakJE_S-6_06t5ORKNpu-qmQEPR78wY9Qzjh6W2ruMtdNGRmUtCnPvHxI-f1UV6kcjMqEt_Hx1Ef3zou5e55Sfw4/s1600-h/n81364893496_9551.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 46px; height: 47px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeUZWf8oSe6TOonyWPipMKcSCY9w_EUj1xgkotgPJSNXshfVlq3-1vakJE_S-6_06t5ORKNpu-qmQEPR78wY9Qzjh6W2ruMtdNGRmUtCnPvHxI-f1UV6kcjMqEt_Hx1Ef3zou5e55Sfw4/s200/n81364893496_9551.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448082805022649906" border="0" /></a>of Christ. My church, Houston' First Baptist, and Jean-Paul's church, Evangelican Restoration Church Remera Rwanda, has joined in faith to support us. Like I had said, this wedding is not just about JP and I. It’s a testimony of God’s Glory that we happily and obediently share with everyone. It's not the incorporated church budget, but the PEOPLE of the church that showed their hearts to us.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /></p> <p class="MsoNormal">HFBC has come through with many in-kind contributions of airplane tickets, accommodations, loaner car, etc. And my church family will be joining us as Pastor Don Munton marries us on March 27th. On New Years day, we were surprisingly introduced as an engaged couple to the church in the Petit Stade (The Little Stadium) by Pastor Lydia Masasu. Hundreds of church members applauded with tears and joy as they shared in the blessing God has bestowed on their beloved church servants. People were touched to see the true hands of God Almighty upon Jean-Paul and my life. They had known JP and seen him humbly serve the church for about 5 years now. They now see how God blesses His servants abundantly. Several came together to donate from their pockets to support God's miracle wedding. It’s been such a miracle to see how loved JP is by his church. Apostle Masasu and Mama Lydia are wonderfully annointed parents of ERC. We thank God for Mama, Papa and the church family! God's people are good indeed! Kabisa!!! And God is so faithful!!!!</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">BUTTERFLIES IN MY STOMACH<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">In America we say we have “butterflies in our stomachs” just before doing something major. I am strong and brave, but who can ever imagine the things that go through your head as you make such big movements in life such as marriage. You can never know a person entirely, nor do they know themselves entirely. People change. I’ve seen it and experienced it with my own eyes. Only God knows who we are or will be. So, stepping into a spiritual and earthly legal covenant of marriage is quite a leap of faith. I didn’t think I’d be nervous about this, but the butterflies are fluttering about in my stomach, not many but a few. I have experienced so many failed marriages in my life through friends and family that began so promising. It’s easier to see others do it and to criticize what they should have done differently. But to enter into this yourself is quite a step. I have always taken marriage seriously. Being a child of divorce, I don’t condone it or wish it upon any family. It’s a complicated blemish that creates a huge stain upon many lives. But Jesus washes away all the stains. And as I face this new commitment, I surrender all the unknown and all the butterflies to God. My faith in my husband comes through my faith in Christ Jesus. And I know the Bible says the key to all conflicts and misunderstandings lies in remembering “first love.” So, as I choose a ring to symbolize Jean-Paul and my covenant marriage, I pray for it to remind me of my “first love” for Christ and for Jean-Paul.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">A NEW SEASON TO BE DETERMINED<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">As we wed in Houston and return to Rwanda, we ask for prayers for the direction of our new season together as husband-wife missionaries. Whether God has us remain in Rwanda or return to America or go off to some other country, we will always serve him to our utmost, making sure we use his gifts to give and bless others and bless His Kingdom. The fate of Rwanda is mapped out in Kagame's Vision 2020, but only God knows. Rwanda, especially the capital city of Kigali, is growing like wildfire. Pray with us about the future of Rwanda and what God wants us to do.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">STAY TUNED TO BLOG UPDATES<o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal">We are off to America. Stay tuned to these blogs. Subscribe (see below) as I share the month of our miraculous wedding. We are so excited to see family and friends. God be with you. We love you all sooooo much. Thanks for all your prayers and support.</p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:100%;"><b>Love in Christ Jesus,<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:14pt;"><b><span style="font-size:100%;">Linda & Jean-Paul</span><o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">PRAISE GOD!!!<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">For all the provisions for our wedding<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style=""> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">Jean-Paul’s continued health and healing from diabetes<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style=""> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">For all the supporters in Rwanda and Houston<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">PRAYER REQUESTS<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">speedy 501c3 approval for Urukundo for the Children, Inc.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">the remainder of funds needed for our stay in Houston for the wedding<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style=""> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">Jean-Paul’s continued health<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style=""> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">safe return to Rwanda<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style=""> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">Our job stability and sustainability in Rwanda and/or USA<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">Continued peace and safety, especially in the new house<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style="font: 7pt "Times New Roman";"> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">The actual wedding March 27, 2010<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: 0.25in; text-indent: -0.25in;"><!--[if !supportLists]--><span style=";font-family:Symbol;font-size:85%;" >·<span style=""> </span></span><!--[endif]--><span style="font-size:85%;">Jean-Paul’s family in Burundi – brothers’ health<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>WEDDING GIFTS<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><b><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:85%;" ><b>Online Gift Registry: </b></span><span style=";font-family:Times;font-size:85%;" >If you’d like to bless us with a gift, we have set up a cash gift at: <b><a href="http://www.myregistry.com/">www.myregistry.com</a> . SEARCH: Linda Huang<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style=";font-family:Helvetica-Bold;font-size:85%;" ><b><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>Wedding Basket (at reception)<o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style=""><span style="font-size:85%;">You may also choose to drop a check (payable to Linda Huang) in the gift basket at the wedding. Thank you so much for your blessing.<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">PLEASE ADVOCATE FOR THE CHRIST & FOR THE CHILDREN<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">I need your help to raise funds to build what God has called me here to build for Him. Gather friends to sponsor lunches, bike rides, run/walks, picnics, bake sales, lemonade stands or concerts for the cause of God’s ministry in Rwanda, to build <b>Christ Is Our Hope School Community Rwanda (and wherever else he desires), </b></span><span style="font-size:85%;">a center of hope and God’s blessings, to raise new leaders. There are children who need your help. There are nations that need hope. Help me to raise funds to develop a better education system for them and a future hope in Christ. 501c3 is pending very soon.</span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>TO DONATE TO URUKUNDO (LOVE) FOR THE CHIDLREN, INC.<o:p></o:p><br /></b></span></p><p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><b>PLEASE SEND CHECKS PAYABLE TO: <o:p></o:p></b></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">Urukundo for the Children<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">4020 Blue Bonnet Blvd., Unit G<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">Houston, Texas 77025<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">Attn: Beth Richards<o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;"><!--[if !supportEmptyParas]--> <!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:85%;">---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<o:p></o:p></span></p> <span style="font-size:85%;"><i>PLEASE SUBSCRIBE: If you have not already done so, please subscribe to “Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter” by entering your email address in the subscription field to the right. FeedBurner will send you a CONFIRMATION EMAIL that you must REPLY TO CONFIRM in order to activate your subscription. Please, pass the subscription and blog site on to others to share the testimony and raise support for the mission. God bless you!</i></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-74494846110444598612009-12-26T02:33:00.001-08:002009-12-26T06:42:54.697-08:00Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Volume 14<span style="font-style: italic;font-size:78%;" >PRAYER FOR THE BLOG: In the name of Jesus, I cover this blog and all the information and incidents in the Blood of Christ, that the projects, contents and words would be unharmed. Amen [Click on photos to view larger. Click BACK to return to blog]</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrAyZVBNWlPMLmHPmZaS7H1Gv0m9iVZj2xhfTDiU5LwU4wtKX7zYPNyadkVYxPcHvFfz4bVYJbnaMR7Kuev6gzNhE8Y11hvnayI91UhV6im19fUTQwFMTzjOu8MHNF1IcYUADRrltLrqg/s1600-h/image001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 128px; height: 96px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrAyZVBNWlPMLmHPmZaS7H1Gv0m9iVZj2xhfTDiU5LwU4wtKX7zYPNyadkVYxPcHvFfz4bVYJbnaMR7Kuev6gzNhE8Y11hvnayI91UhV6im19fUTQwFMTzjOu8MHNF1IcYUADRrltLrqg/s200/image001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419493968993356386" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">December 25, 2009, KIGALI, RWANDA</span> – Merry Christmas! I pray that God is bringing you such joy and love this time of year. It’s my third Christmas in Rwanda, away from my family and friends, but this year God and Santa gave me a most wonderful gift, a husband-to-be, to spend it with. 2010 looks to be a year of unity as God joins me to my partner for life and for this mission. I am so grateful for God’s answers to all my prayers. And I know he’s working on more.<br /><br />Rwanda doesn’t really celebrate Christmas. They prefer New Years. Oh, how I miss Christmas and remembering what its all about – the birth of our Savior Christ Jesus and the fulfillment of the promise…unity and family, celebration, children and mercy.<br /><br />It’s again time to recap on my time in Rwanda. I have been here since June 2007 with only one brief month home in American since then. I came here with a mission from God and have not wavered since. The environment has changed and I have changed, but the mission is still on and growing – to affect the educational climate for underprivileged children in Rwanda in order to pave way for future strong peaceful leadership. God has protected me from what could have been great disasters. He allowed me just enough strife to keep me humble and to teach me lessons about myself and about the climate in which I am working.<br /><br />I came here green-eyed and innocent, with big ideas and the utmost of faith. My faith has remained and grown stronger, but my flesh is so tired. Nevertheless, my utmost for His highest is still the goal of my heart. I have worked in various ways with NGOs, individuals, churches, pastors, business people and other missionaries. I have taught children and adults Bible and other skills. I have prayed with orphans and the sick. I have explored the depths of the Rwandan people. I have heard many stories of many people who came here with millions of dollars that get stolen from trusting the wrong person. I praise God that he has withheld the funds from me while I was green, and I trust that He will release all the provisions when I am ready to handle it. I don’t know if I could bare the guilt of losing millions of dollars of donor funds like many I have heard about.<br /><br />I have worked voluntarily with minimal support, having to pick up odd paying jobs to make ends meet. I have lived days on end with little in my pocket for food or transport. I have walked for miles with my equipment and guitar on my back. I have been duped and deceived, befriended and used, slandered and mocked. Yet all that under His wings and covering because I am still here and alive. Now God has given me work to start making me self-supportive so all ministry funds can go straight to ministry. However, its not a highly stable job market so please continue to pray about my job. And this year God has founded <span style="font-weight: bold;">Urukundo for the Children</span> and given us the papers to file 501c3 so we can start raising the funds to do the meat of the work. Here's a recap of my three years in Rwanda on mission for Christ.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Highlights of my past 2 years’ work:</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">2007 arrived in Rwanda<br />2007-present: consulted numerous individuals on life and business planning<br />2007 taught primary and secondary school at Kigali International Community School<br />2007 taught worship, Bible, and production at Victory Mission Church<br />2007 taught Bible, English and music to FESO kids at Ndera<br />2007 visited Nyabugogo orphanage with a church mission team for Christmas with The Christmas Story movie and gifts<br />2007 organized Victory Mission Church special Christmas and New Years worship<br /><br />2008 organized and promoted ministry concert for Enric Sifa at Christian Life Assembly<br />2008 taught Bible, English, and worship music at taught at Kisugu Christian Fellowship on two trips to Uganda<br />2008 taught Bible at prisons in Uganda<br />2008 visited families of Hope Prison Ministry in Uganda<br />2008 taught at Kihihi villages and churches in Uganda<br />2008 prayed at orphanages and hospitals in Gisenyi<br />2008 prayed at hospitals in Congo<br />2008 visited animals and villages of Akagera<br />2008 taught guitar classes at KICS<br />2008 taught computers and adult English at World Relief; consulted WR on volunteer training<br />2008 registered and incorporated Urukundo (Love) for the Children, Inc.<br />2008 went on furlough for first time in November for Inspire Women Luncheon and Conference, and to visit family and friends<br /><br />2009 taught English, music, and art at Ecole Belge<br />2009 trained teachers at EA School for orphans<br />2009 helped to plan medical clinic for Hope Kigali Festival (Andrew Palau evangelical festival)<br />2009 organized Enric Sifa’s backup team at Hope Kigali festival<br />2009 taught Bible and fellowshipped with orphans of Narrow Road Ministries<br />2009 joined Rwanda for Jesus church and worship team<br />2009 began recording self-composed Christian songs for a testimonial album<br />2009 began registration process for Urukundo for the Children, Inc.<br />2009 began working part-time to earn my living ¬– as Creative Director/Art Director/Studio Manager for Creaxion/Ogilvy Africa advertising agency<br />2009 researched the educational front, especially in the area of disabilities<br />2009 engaged to Burundian missionary<br />2009 visited family in Burundi; sang at President’s house<br />2009 applying for 501c3 for Urukundo for the Children</span><br /><br />I am looking forward to seeing God work big things into the mission next year with a new husband on the way and a new organization to develop. I have confidence in His plans.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7JlZB3piktgTEOvewkuv_hlozRBYzSAFAC-kNbDPrItT49KA4Ym1rbRFL1z83WGmh4xhyPSTbjiZCooG7T5yCqEFNQeh42IWuY-cNkMNlIgxZA81OpKJsVF7wL-k5vCinwqU_sd67D8/s1600-h/image003.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 102px; height: 126px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiu7JlZB3piktgTEOvewkuv_hlozRBYzSAFAC-kNbDPrItT49KA4Ym1rbRFL1z83WGmh4xhyPSTbjiZCooG7T5yCqEFNQeh42IWuY-cNkMNlIgxZA81OpKJsVF7wL-k5vCinwqU_sd67D8/s200/image003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419496022290707522" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">THE BLESSING OF BURUNDI</span><br />In November Jean-Paul and I took a week long trip to meet Jean-Paul’s family in <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bujumbura, Burundi</span> and take care of some passport issues. It was my first time to go to Burundi. We were crunched for time and money, but God performed miracles to get all our business completed in a miraculous seven days.<br /><br />As we rode into Burundi by way of an almost 8 hour bus ride, I saw roads that were organized and paved, storefronts that made sense. The country was clean and the people were pleasant and hospitable, not only with visitors but towards each other.<br /><br />It was wonderful to see where JP grew up, meet his family and friends, and hear more stories about his life in a war-torn Burundi. Burundi faced the same genocidal ethnic conflicts as Rwanda, but did not get the Hollywood fame that Rwanda received. And JP’s family suffered through a lot of persecution and life threats during that time. JP has come a long way from his mountain village upbringing. We literally went door-to door to visit his family, who were so happy for our marriage “project” (as they say here).<br /><br />In town, the streets of Bujumbura are nicely paved and lined with mango-selling ladies. The mangos, the national export, are deliciously sweet, just like the people. Burundians are serious relationship people. They enjoy visiting friends old and new, helping each other, praying for each other and congratulating each other for life successes. I find them quite genuine as they each came one by one to visit Jean-Paul and meet me, his fiancé. They were all so happy for him.<br /><br />Walking through the main marketplace, JP is greeted warmly by many vendors who are his distant relative or childhood village neighbor. I was truly in awe of all the people who stepped up to help JP ge<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmn-lJNe6kU-cntZYbqJKr_rYYS5G-NgsedwkDcsiHrHxQw0jOy-WG6Hb-Etop_ZoLnH0_snCcePBMPGAJrwe5CSY0ad79Z3KqtUPVHB4zTgaDuC823uVAe_Kk7w0yXsDCkDGQGJHTlrk/s1600-h/image005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 127px; height: 72px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmn-lJNe6kU-cntZYbqJKr_rYYS5G-NgsedwkDcsiHrHxQw0jOy-WG6Hb-Etop_ZoLnH0_snCcePBMPGAJrwe5CSY0ad79Z3KqtUPVHB4zTgaDuC823uVAe_Kk7w0yXsDCkDGQGJHTlrk/s200/image005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419500253815597202" border="0" /></a>t a copy of his<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEF46OACeW0PGcKhkx0JC5p-KY8aWVij3nobd5Tn0ht3wOjE6E9NkI7FxTzbpFO7GrcIjJANiAOXEZAXn8_I3SMaXIVL51HWHTqY5Kb0V3bdyEEm_KQh3HIlU4BJ_EBuA9_D1p66lbw7w/s1600-h/image009.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 99px; height: 74px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEF46OACeW0PGcKhkx0JC5p-KY8aWVij3nobd5Tn0ht3wOjE6E9NkI7FxTzbpFO7GrcIjJANiAOXEZAXn8_I3SMaXIVL51HWHTqY5Kb0V3bdyEEm_KQh3HIlU4BJ_EBuA9_D1p66lbw7w/s200/image009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419509837397318098" border="0" /></a> birth certificate and renew his passport to prepare for wedding travel.<br /><br />We also visited the church of JPs dear friend and international worship leader Apollinaire. Apollinaire leads the church and the worship team alongside his wife.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Nkurunziza: Burundi’s Renaissance</span><br />It was quite an honor to witness and hear the testimony of Burundi’s new renaissance. Just a few years ago Burundi was still under rebel conflicts. The people were taken out of their homes and placed in refugee camps.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58k_sSatmMXpgA-B0gbx0YqpnDZ9E2a3-Hbt74_rlsF0TF_ZU0A2dLJVNU-VUgKbVwtJjxjTPbNH3uodIYV9TZGZNjUbePIeCfruxf3_80W_o5qP6Sw5EdZBqtTaQmO9hFZmXjBnrz_0/s1600-h/image017.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 169px; height: 126px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg58k_sSatmMXpgA-B0gbx0YqpnDZ9E2a3-Hbt74_rlsF0TF_ZU0A2dLJVNU-VUgKbVwtJjxjTPbNH3uodIYV9TZGZNjUbePIeCfruxf3_80W_o5qP6Sw5EdZBqtTaQmO9hFZmXjBnrz_0/s200/image017.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419503329262469762" border="0" /></a>The current <span style="font-weight: bold;">President Pierre Nkurunziza</span> is outwardly Christian and a testimony of a godly leader. He is a leader of the people, working from the grassroots to know their needs. Next to the Burundian presidential office is a tent where people wait to meet with the President to personally share their concerns or just greet him. They say he is a man of the people, being the only President who literally gets his hands dirty and does manual work with the people of his country. He is more than a political machine, but truly in touch with the people. He is a model of humility and integrity. And he gives all the credit to God. Every Sunday evening he holds a private worship service in his home, inviting staff, foreign dignitaries and guest pastors. He supports his choir made up of soldiers who fought alongside him during conflicting times. They all love him so much. It was humbling and awesome to hear of such a leader.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNnjHAGFpwXz55XpfeXj-M40rzxZoa2JHtuaPu0pYpxiC4wibzjk5V9HMA36YOWK53TbCIhcxO_KqUG5upYaecbLbpFoIUZEVhK4h_xTh4cLtxia3GIQh-zd2V-pNXjdUY0U1gmOfjq4c/s1600-h/image013.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 107px; height: 81px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNnjHAGFpwXz55XpfeXj-M40rzxZoa2JHtuaPu0pYpxiC4wibzjk5V9HMA36YOWK53TbCIhcxO_KqUG5upYaecbLbpFoIUZEVhK4h_xTh4cLtxia3GIQh-zd2V-pNXjdUY0U1gmOfjq4c/s200/image013.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419501982232074770" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6M_IXmJpupdnZS2xs6J0n5iUn-Tbxeh5JHIAlTBSR2bpvBXRmZZ7N3NQNfDlpherlwWa0m2frtUJJQQQTv0SJQsfu6wIY3eY68P9fnXv-tG4TSRbB6xC14BRFWGW-arljXEbsS9P8w2c/s1600-h/image011.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 107px; height: 80px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6M_IXmJpupdnZS2xs6J0n5iUn-Tbxeh5JHIAlTBSR2bpvBXRmZZ7N3NQNfDlpherlwWa0m2frtUJJQQQTv0SJQsfu6wIY3eY68P9fnXv-tG4TSRbB6xC14BRFWGW-arljXEbsS9P8w2c/s200/image011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419505114402000642" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Jean-Paul’s favor in Burundi</span><br />It was a treat to discover that my fiancé is quite special in Burundi and well-known amongst local people and the political front. The president is quite the worship music connoisseur so Jean-Paul is favored in Burundi. We went to Tanganyika Studio for JP to record lead guitar for a special compilation CD for the President. JP’s second family is the presidential soldiers’ choir. He is frequently summoned form Rwanda to play for the president.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9D-Z3Pn0uIG75VV1v3jowPdJs56wz27SmjW_hDRL9Y4ekBbjrMGWcHucs3jvjn5ucXPFuATwnFF6yu8LaeAF3gEvI2CfIkTZy6U5N-Q4JFzdP-azJQS1EVT8MsrFKlrMpIF5cqpgg0cM/s1600-h/image019.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 114px; height: 86px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9D-Z3Pn0uIG75VV1v3jowPdJs56wz27SmjW_hDRL9Y4ekBbjrMGWcHucs3jvjn5ucXPFuATwnFF6yu8LaeAF3gEvI2CfIkTZy6U5N-Q4JFzdP-azJQS1EVT8MsrFKlrMpIF5cqpgg0cM/s200/image019.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419504134731753362" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Dinner at the Burundian President’s Residence</span><br />We were invited for Sunday dinner and service at the President’s private residence, a weekly event. The President was not present because he was at the Vatican in Rome receiving a Peace Prize. However, I was asked to sing a Kinyarwanda translation of Chris Tomlin’s <span style="font-style: italic;">We Fall Down</span> to the First Lady and special guests as Jean-Paul accompanied me on guitar. We had a wonderful meal that included sweet potatoes personally planted by the President in his personal garden. JP showed me that the stray children wondering around the premises included several orphans that the President had adopted into his family. It was an honorable night to remember. I took a few photos but it was dark and I had to be very discreet in front of VIPs.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ko_F1z9BhPlZw0Y2HLRDfCV0rHOGHc7Gu5Zjsa8wjRWsoLWxWeoJAQR6c1cAV2SXaqDQ39Z8vrxbAKZ5EHt0vbKUofe919CRIxUYT9oOpM-gMaht0ooX4g13slyGCGiww1BQzuWYx0o/s1600-h/image021.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 136px; height: 102px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2ko_F1z9BhPlZw0Y2HLRDfCV0rHOGHc7Gu5Zjsa8wjRWsoLWxWeoJAQR6c1cAV2SXaqDQ39Z8vrxbAKZ5EHt0vbKUofe919CRIxUYT9oOpM-gMaht0ooX4g13slyGCGiww1BQzuWYx0o/s200/image021.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419506061374343362" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlhIjXVHJaGCkdVVV3st3EDcpIAvyWyNxu2dJAcSDwYong-tn66SQRBeSB9OFlWubwvKhWtUju9EniXtT-k8aZE8gCd8CEJvWVUJ1D8D6ZsoCeIZ0tb7pbCaMxr-Fj8Z8gnH-Wba2fo-8/s1600-h/image023.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 157px; height: 118px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlhIjXVHJaGCkdVVV3st3EDcpIAvyWyNxu2dJAcSDwYong-tn66SQRBeSB9OFlWubwvKhWtUju9EniXtT-k8aZE8gCd8CEJvWVUJ1D8D6ZsoCeIZ0tb7pbCaMxr-Fj8Z8gnH-Wba2fo-8/s200/image023.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419507058352002114" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">VISITING THE FAMILY</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> IN BURUNDI</span><br />We visited the village where Jean-Paul had grown up and where his family still resides. JP has climbed far from the small quaint and simple village where he was raised. He showed me that he actually used to live up the mountain where he walked for miles to get to school and back. The village was much like the villages in Cyangugu where I first came into Rwanda to evangelize. Who would have ever thought I’d be marrying someone from such a village?<br /><br />We literally went door-to-door visiting his uncles and aunts who are like his parents because his father had passed away (possibly form poisoning, a common thing in Africa). His immediate family consists of his brothers and sisters and their families and his mother. All the family was so happy about our engagement. They see it as a blessing.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheJXYtadijUNqtfwTGbksa0CY_Q1A4jcd6v3Js9SSqNfpq98kR9vaz2_gkhDNhxuYeiNAE7abRe4d9J5nO1lgjFk-9FJ6_Pb2K3jkVVTai6LtrXmSuL4kMBMzFpG6-W-NpwXPQ-DNOKsI/s1600-h/image023.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 67px; height: 90px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheJXYtadijUNqtfwTGbksa0CY_Q1A4jcd6v3Js9SSqNfpq98kR9vaz2_gkhDNhxuYeiNAE7abRe4d9J5nO1lgjFk-9FJ6_Pb2K3jkVVTai6LtrXmSuL4kMBMzFpG6-W-NpwXPQ-DNOKsI/s200/image023.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419517436013788498" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-4Rlwi8H0IvVw5Z5eZGTCVLEFljToL5x2JBhmwJXNbMdT_Pl20nNGB6KMzSdoltkvi7BmTPqVw0KDO-LhW9OF1f_uijO6PzlI7Nsphp3SjzQ3WH8iIp7DY3dFEuDPhcLdo37wu5d5OIE/s1600-h/image025.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 66px; height: 89px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-4Rlwi8H0IvVw5Z5eZGTCVLEFljToL5x2JBhmwJXNbMdT_Pl20nNGB6KMzSdoltkvi7BmTPqVw0KDO-LhW9OF1f_uijO6PzlI7Nsphp3SjzQ3WH8iIp7DY3dFEuDPhcLdo37wu5d5OIE/s200/image025.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419518905863133506" border="0" /></a>Meeting the family showed me the strong roots that still reside in Jean-Paul. He is truly a man faithful to God and family. Jean-Paul has a beautiful family who are honest and sincere. They are strong Christians who survived death threats and refugee camps during wartime. They know God’s grace saved them. His older brother Odifax is an Evangelist Pastor of the Evangelical Restoration Church in Bujumbura and his younger brother Jackson is a worship leader. Odifax is married and has beautiful children. Jean-Paul also has a little brother Samuel and a younger sister Pascasie. His mother is a widower.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh97S86on0lrm9PYiVxsEZ-QoC5FjBp3-ExmrK1RLmSdvJgP8mRFd1_6uQrgDW92HYrSyE5zVHmsSnWHHr-9lDb4nyZfdGQ25KsMc66uIlEO1-d9xZz2wgh8rdotkbMMB-YRD5Vu_z3PAA/s1600-h/image025.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 123px; height: 92px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh97S86on0lrm9PYiVxsEZ-QoC5FjBp3-ExmrK1RLmSdvJgP8mRFd1_6uQrgDW92HYrSyE5zVHmsSnWHHr-9lDb4nyZfdGQ25KsMc66uIlEO1-d9xZz2wgh8rdotkbMMB-YRD5Vu_z3PAA/s200/image025.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419507706376660130" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">PLANNING A MIRACLE WEDDING</span><br />The date is set. Jean-Paul Bigirindavyi and I are set to wed at <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">The Chapel of Houston’s First Baptist Church on March 27, 2010 at 4pm</span>. We are praying for all the funds needed to fly to Houston and return to Rwanda to finish out the mission. I am truly planning the wedding from around the globe on a dime. But God is good and has taken care of a lot of expenses through in-kind gifts. However, we are still praying for airplane tickets, more wedding expenses, and traveling expenses. Please pray for us. Nevertheless, I am so excited and blessed to go home to marry in my home church and with my close family and friends. I know God will come through and finish what He started.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">HOUSING FOR THE FUTURE</span><br />God continues to have favor on me even in my strife. JP and I started looking for a place where we may start our lives together after the wedding. We were limited in funds and an inflating real estate market in Kigali (comparable to living in Houston). Nevertheless, the Lord came through miraculously. Housing here is outrageous. Landlords ask for 6 months advances, don’t comply with contracts, and pry into your life. At first finding an affordable house was looking impossible, but God found us a wonderful place near JP’s church/job and not too far from town. The landlord is a sweet man who allowed us a 1 month advance with 1 month deposit. It was a miracle. Even that stretched us to live on nothing for the month of December, but we were happy to have the funds to secure the house. And the house is safe and near the main road, local stores, and the market. It’s a nice large compound that he newly renovated so it should be leak free. I am paying a little more than my current place, but not much more. Praise God!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4QGyXtHLcU3rYRLK4EnI7vgunCKbAZHbAlXrMKMbCT_x6QRww_fwl3WTT7JP8601Fm3Jtjj4lbwgu09SOhhP3WmnckXI4ok_PMKnZlmYs-RV4J9fTXnX2Z-y6c8sWT3b_prfyKYZ0Lo/s1600-h/image027.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 75px; height: 102px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU4QGyXtHLcU3rYRLK4EnI7vgunCKbAZHbAlXrMKMbCT_x6QRww_fwl3WTT7JP8601Fm3Jtjj4lbwgu09SOhhP3WmnckXI4ok_PMKnZlmYs-RV4J9fTXnX2Z-y6c8sWT3b_prfyKYZ0Lo/s200/image027.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419508536924760834" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">WHAT I’VE LEARNED: STEADFAST LOVE</span><br />In all the struggles of the flesh and spirit, I’ve learned what it means to love God with my utmost and press on. All these things that I struggle with are of my mortal flesh. All in all God keeps me well and safe. He keeps His promises. And when I cry out because I’m at my wit’s end, God answers swiftly. And He even gives me overflow in the love of Jean-Paul. I’ve learned to hold onto a steadfast love for God. Trust Him above all. And don’t dwell on the hardships because they are like passing ships in the night. The flame of God is eternal and prosperous.<br /><br />So, as I move on to a new season and a new chapter of my life, it all connects and God is making sense out of my life, day by day…or step by step (as JP likes to say). JP belongs to a strong church family at Evangelical Restoration Church as a “son” and I will be joining that family and partaking of the vision to spread the Gospel far and wide. The church has already welcomed me with open arms. Apostle Masasu and his wife Mama Lydia are humble overseers of the church. My wedding is truly going to be a miracle in a thousand ways.<br /><br />I pray that you have been blessed just for reading about my mission in Rwanda. All my life is a testimony of God’s glory and more glory to come. I may not be a big church or NGO with huge funds, people may be watching and wondering what I am doing, but God knows what He sent me here for and that I am still obedient to His calling. The same skeptical eyes followed Noah’s ark, Moses’ mission, Nehemiah’s wall of Jerusalem, David/Solomon’s temple and Paul’s mission…they were all thought of as crazy unfocused fantasizers…and they all had specific vision and mission from God…and they all pressed on, despite lack of funds and moral support…and in the end all the pieces came together just as God promised, and is now documented eternally in the Holy Bible. This is what I hang on to. I am not as great as any of these messengers of God, but my mission is just as important….<span style="font-weight: bold;">Christ Is Our Hope School Community Rwanda</span> is about what is in the heart of Jesus, his school…planting it in impoverished children…and watching His seeds grow into a new nation of godly leaders. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Urukundo for the Children</span> is about planting more seeds like Christ Is Our Hope School in various areas of the world. It’s also about taking ordinary people like the ones on our Board and having them plant extraordinary programs that make a difference for God in the world.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmVN-RGgwO0MsQW3PC46eH3DMyRvrsELlbK269Bp2ZsubfyufW5Ho7hIZ6KIwR5bEILFsiCPSyfvqu-9o7uaB_uy1K5hue5crp7bG5cqh6g1pcq2Z9_Wl3CoUwx9r5EOeF5lt35HEfZs/s1600-h/me5.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 86px; height: 89px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHmVN-RGgwO0MsQW3PC46eH3DMyRvrsELlbK269Bp2ZsubfyufW5Ho7hIZ6KIwR5bEILFsiCPSyfvqu-9o7uaB_uy1K5hue5crp7bG5cqh6g1pcq2Z9_Wl3CoUwx9r5EOeF5lt35HEfZs/s200/me5.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5419510679458670146" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">I LOVE YOU ALL</span><br />In this bittersweet time when I am missing home so much, I thank God for your health and welfare. Those who have blessed me with friendship, emails of encouragement, and support funds. I know God is blessing you abundantly for your kindness. Isn’t He a good and extravagant God! I pray that this is the true launching year for the mission of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Urukundo (Love) for the Children, Inc.</span> I pray you will continue on with me to read about the mission in these blogs and pray for us. It’s all about God’s glory. In my heart I see the condition of the world and I see God’s love and compassion that envisions a new generation of leaders who know Him and love each other. I love you all so much. Big kisses and hugs from me and Jean-Paul. I can’t wait to see you guys at my wedding in March. I will keep you posted as it comes near. May God be with you and bless you. <span style="font-weight: bold;">I want to wish you the best Christmas yet and a Happy New Year 2010. </span><br /><br />Love in Christ Jesus,<br />Linda<br />---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAISE GOD!!!</span><br />• affordable housing with nice landlord<br />• God’s protection<br />• My fiancé Jean-Paul and his improved health<br />• My family<br />• All the people who have come along to help me in all these years and particularly now with the wedding. God bless you all!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAYER REQUESTS</span><br />• speedy 501c3 approval for Urukundo for the Children, Inc.<br />• Wedding preparations & provisions for roundtrip tickets and all wedding/honeymoon expenses<br />• Jean-Paul’s continued health<br />• Our job and financial stability in Rwanda<br />• Continued peace and safety, especially in the new house<br />• The actual wedding March 27, 2010<br />• that all my family and friends are able to make it to the wedding<br />---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">WEDDING GIFT REGISTRY:</span><br />For those who have asked how they may bless us with a gift for our marriage or wedding, I have signed up with a cash registry at www.myregistry.com that works through paypal. Since we are returning to Rwanda after the wedding, we cannot bring large gifts with us so we prefer cash gifts to support the wedding expenses and to purchase things in Rwanda to start off our marriage. God bless you!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cash Gift Wedding Registry</span><br />You may use your credit card or bank transfer (through paypal) to contribute a cash gift at our registry at <a href="http://www.myregistry.com/"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">www.myregistry.com</span></a><br />SEARCH: Linda Huang or Jean-Paul Bigirindavyi<br />password: blessing<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Wedding Basket (at reception)</span><br />You may also choose to drop a check (payable to Linda Huang) in the gift basket at the wedding. Thank you so much for your blessing.<br /><br />---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PLEASE ADVOCATE FOR CHRIST & FOR THE CHILDREN</span><br />I need your help to raise funds to build what God has called me here to build for Him. Gather friends to sponsor lunches, bike rides, run/walks, picnics, bake sales, lemonade stands or concerts for the cause of God’s ministry in Rwanda, to build Christ Is Our Hope School Community Rwanda, a center of hope and God’s blessings, to raise new leaders. There are children who need your help. There’s a nation that needs hope. Help me to raise funds to develop a better education system for them and a future hope in Christ. 501c3 is pending very soon.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TO DONATE TO URUKUNDO (LOVE) FOR THE CHIDLREN, INC.</span><br />PLEASE SEND CHECKS PAYABLE TO:<br />Urukundo for the Children<br />4020 Blue Bonnet Blvd., Unit G<br />Houston, Texas 77025<br />Attn: Beth Richards<br /><br />---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:78%;" >PLEASE SUBSCRIBE: If you have not already done so, please subscribe to “Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter” by entering your email address in the subscription field to the right. FeedBurner will send you a CONFIRMATION EMAIL that you must REPLY TO CONFIRM in order to activate your subscription. Please, pass the subscription and blog site on to others to share the testimony and raise support for the mission. God bless you!</span><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-14647427573486676222009-10-29T08:59:00.004-07:002009-11-01T01:09:58.888-08:00Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter Vol. 13<span style="font-size:78%;">[Click on photos to view larger. Click BACK to return to blog] Lord God, I cover this blog in the Blood of Christ, that the projects, contents and words would be protected and unharmed in Jesus’ name. Amen</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2mYn4wlIX6NFChDUn3STldfdg0JEsc613m1vd6icnBrDcgt2ZW0ns6lcHRVWlGmnUbtDf0y0KPuWTSL1176MkFeCwHMveoQ9wVpliRRUjudLd_2jF02tWeWWNu4XOIw7JSQVnB77CY6Y/s1600-h/IMG_1323.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 167px; height: 126px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2mYn4wlIX6NFChDUn3STldfdg0JEsc613m1vd6icnBrDcgt2ZW0ns6lcHRVWlGmnUbtDf0y0KPuWTSL1176MkFeCwHMveoQ9wVpliRRUjudLd_2jF02tWeWWNu4XOIw7JSQVnB77CY6Y/s200/IMG_1323.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398057512464703922" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">October 29, 2009, KIGALI, RWANDA – A LOVE STORY…</span><br />When God called me to Rwanda, I was (and still am) so completely sold-out for Christ. I told God that I was complete and I live only to serve the purpose of Christ (To Live is Christ, To die is gain). I told God that I didn’t need a husband and family to complete me. I just want to serve Him all my life and then join Him in Heaven. I heard God’s voice in my heart say, <span style="font-style: italic;">“Child, don’t sell me short. Don’t you think I can give you what you want? If it’s the desire of your heart, then it shall be done. Believe me!”</span> So, I told God, <span style="font-style: italic;">“Yes, it’s the desire of my heart to have a husband and child.” </span>God said, <span style="font-style: italic;">“Then so it shall be. Trust me.”</span> So, I surrendered it all to God and told Him He would have to bring the right one to me and point him out because I was not good at choosing the right man.<br /><br />As I prepared for my mission in Rwanda, I knew my chances of finding a husband in the youth-oriented mission field of Rwanda was slim and the cultural differences made it seem more improbable. But I always knew God could do anything. So, I came to Rwanda not expecting anything, not looking for anything…just to serve God. I focused on my mission and served people of all ages and ethnicities.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PERSEVERING THE MISSION FIELD: 3rd Year</span><br />It’s been 2-1/2 years now and its been tough serving in a foreign country all alone where it’s not common for women to be independent and single. I’ve been taken advantage of and deceived by those thinking that a single “white” female must be wealthy. Most women here live with their parents until they are married, even if they’re beyond their 30’s. And they marry early because they are not expected to be able to take care of themselves. People have played on my missionary compassion and trust, using the cause of God to get favors from me. My heart has been duped and twisted. I came here pretty much on my own, with little organizational support. My heart has been disappointed. It’s been a long journey to persevere and a lot of daily eye-opening experiences. Every day is a prayer of re-affirming that I should stay. I came here by the calling of God to fulfill His vision. Many people don’t understand why I am here, including my family. In fact, my family is starting to think I have abandoned them for a life in Rwanda, not understanding that life here is not something I choose for myself, but for God. I press on for one purpose – Christ. Nevertheless, God keeps me holding on strong. He keeps providing in some way and affirming my stay here. Still, the more and more I was here in Rwanda, it felt less safe to be alone.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">THE PRAYER</span><br />After many disappointments and dwindling donations (down to about 5 small donors on and off), I didn’t want to run home just because things are difficult. I believe in God’s provision for my mission needs. So, I began to pray that if God truly wanted me to remain in Rwanda, He would bring me three things: cultural and financial stability and the protection of the husband he had planned for me all my life. I asked that my husband would be a mission partner as God is my life mission. Someone who would be faithful to Him and to me as my husband. I asked God for someone who loves family so we could raise children that I would carry on the mission and serve Him beyond my time and better. I asked to be like Hannah. And I waited patiently, with the strength of God holding me each day.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">T</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrZvIpQJ-48ent8c9ctQ1kT3kcrBs9hDr2VdQWAaZWqo0Zl_S4-ccryJ7w_N1qE7-MAA16Y1X9qVUd-vbKrk2zFEiQXvzmHS8XC5H4S9bJgyUfChBpf9Mw_r0vG6rkE9-jHEU9V9Bru6M/s1600-h/JPandMe.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 232px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrZvIpQJ-48ent8c9ctQ1kT3kcrBs9hDr2VdQWAaZWqo0Zl_S4-ccryJ7w_N1qE7-MAA16Y1X9qVUd-vbKrk2zFEiQXvzmHS8XC5H4S9bJgyUfChBpf9Mw_r0vG6rkE9-jHEU9V9Bru6M/s320/JPandMe.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398055757057606850" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">HE ANSWER TO PRAYERS</span><br />Well, God is ever faithful with His promises and the time has come…where I least expected…and so naturally. First, I have a few part-time jobs that allow me to “tentmake” and earn some funds for a modest living. Secondly, now I have a very special person in my life and <span style="font-weight: bold;">WE ARE ENGAGED</span>. His name is Jean-Paul and he is from Burundi, but has been living in Rwanda for about 8 years now, serving as a musician in the church. We’ve been friends for almost 2 years now, but this year we got deeper in the relationship and God started to point him out to me. I see God’s hands upon his life. JP loves me more than any man I’ve known on earth. Its like he was perfectly molded for me. He loves the things that are essentially me. We are so connected. He can’t bear to see me unhappy. He feels my every pains and joys. However, God has taught me well. I am not with JP because I need him. I am with him because he is my blessing. I am happier when I am with him. This is yet another answer to prayer and blessing from God. Please pray with us as we explore a future together. We need many many prayers to carry this miracle wedding through, as it is not an easy task for a missionary to afford all the logistics of marriage. My parents are retired so this wedding is on my own.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">MY FIANCE</span><br />Jean-Paul is a tremendously gifted guitarist and a four-years staff player in the large church family of Evangelical Restoration Church in Remera. He works diligently for the church alongside his brother who plays bass guitar. JP was born in Bujumbura, Burundi (south of Rwanda) to a family of means, but the plight of war (the same ethnic tribal conflicts as Rwanda) forced his family into poverty. His father took ill and died while he was in primary school. After his father’s death, his mother went into depression and abandoned the family, leaving JP, his older brother, 2 younger brothers and a baby sister to take care of themselves. JP quit secondary school and left Burundi to find work to support the family. JP journeyed to Rwanda alone, where he faced many challenges. However, God was watching over him and used the gift of music to help JP. He was eventually offered a job at Restoration church, a rare opportunity as most churches here do not have a paid staff, especially for music.<br /><br />JP has told me stories of the war in Burundi that would touch your heart. God has separated JP, having saved him from death by a firing squad, then in surviving Rwanda streets, and finally in placing him with me (another one He has separated). I can only think that God is creating something bigger in uniting us.<br /><br />JP’s talent on the guitar is truly a gift from God. I’ve known a lot of musicians in my days, but I have seen few guitarists pick up styles as fast and naturally as JP. He plays many styles, but we both are drawn to blues and jazz, which is his strongest. We are hoping to make a demo and get him a record contract one day with a record company in the USA to help support our family and ministry and to share this gift with the world.<br /><br />I met Jean-Paul February 2008 when I hired him for a concert that I was organizing and promoting for a local artist. He says I stood out in his heart immediately. Since then, he has been a good friend who comes to my house for dinners, movies, and music theory lessons. I didn’t know it, but something inside me wanted to be around JP. I invited him to minister with me at times to children and he was always willing and able. I didn’t know that he was already in love with me. As time went on, we talked more and more about family and marriage and finally he told me how he felt and the rest is history.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">GOD’S LESSONS</span><br />At first, the thought of marrying, and a foreigner at that, terrified me because I had been wrong many times before. How do I know this guy won’t turn around and stab me in the back, like I had experienced many times before? However, God has taught me two important things in this last year…first, you don’t choose who you love, but you can choose who you spend your life with. Making lists of the perfect man or woman is pointless. When it happens, it happens. Our hearts can love the wrong person, but when it’s the right one, everything will feel just right. You can choose who is the right one to spend your life with. Secondly, God has taught me that it’s not easy to trust anyone so you must ultimately trust Him, knowing that he knows when you are going to make a mistake and he makes all things work out in the end for your good. So, I laid everything at the altar with God and He told me to just be honest with JP and let him stand the test. So, I laid every fear and concern on the table and we discussed them all….and JP still loves me. He is not after anything except my love. He says “it’s true love” and “we are one.” And he means it. I have put him through a lot to get him to understand my complicated life in this mission field and even at home. He never lets me walk away if he senses things are not well. He has true concern for me. I can only believe that this is the man that God has picked out for me all my life. He’s not perfect, but he’s perfectly made for me.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">THE WEDDING DREAM</span><br />As the modest yet beautiful diamond ring sits on my finger, it reminds me not only of our promise to marry each other but also of God’s fulfilled promise to me. We are so much in love and eager to begin our lives together. My dream wedding is to go home to Houston to marry amongst my friends and family. We are hoping to marry in US early 2010 and afterwards return to Rwanda for 2-3 years to finish the mission. We have thought long and hard about this because my family and friends are in the US and JP’s family and friends are in Rwanda/Burundi. Since we are returning here to live for a few years it would be nice for my family and friends to witness this important rite of passage in my life. Plus, it would be a dream-come-true for me to have my family and friends witness the miraculous testimony of my life and rekindle the fire for the mission of <span style="font-weight: bold;">Urukundo for the Children, Inc.</span>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">WHAT ELSE IS GOING ON?</span><br />I continue to work my multiple jobs to keep up with living expenses.<br />I have a part-time job back in advertising. I spend half time Creative Directing and Studio Managing at Creaxion, an Ogilvy Worldwide affiliate. So, my mornings are spent coaching the creative team and meeting with clients to fulfill major advertising campaigns for print, billboards, TV, radio, etc. I am learning about how business works in Rwanda and how the consumer market thinks.<br /><br />Meanwhile, God is working on consolidating the work to even combine ministry with full time paid employment. Keep praying about this. I also try to find time to also share Christ with the youth by developing a children’s Bible Study program and training volunteer teachers. I also have some groups of young people that I visit with to worship, teach and fellowship in Christ. Funds are low so the means to travel out for ministry is limited right now, but I have faith this will change. Things in Rwanda stay very unpredictable. I just go day by day and pray for protection and grace.<br /><br />I am also juggling a distance learning class for my Dallas Theological Seminary Master Degree through a scholarship from Inspire Women. Right now I am studying church administrative leadership. Pray for me to finish my readings and papers.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">GOD’S LOVE</span><br />I just praise God for always hearing my cries and tending to my needs. I praise God for his wonderful rewards. This is a love story about God’s love for me. His love is so sufficient and abundant, but He loves me so much more that He even gives me the overflowing love of Jean-Paul in my life. God wants me to even be happy on earth, and then supremely happy with Him in Heaven. I have done nothing to deserve this. And I trust that He will bring all the provisions to make this marriage happen and finish the mission. And I trust that JP is not only my husband, but the next step in this mission on earth. Thank you, Lord!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">CHRISTIAN ALERT! [PLEASE READ]</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">On April 7, 2004 The New York Times reported, "When 800,000 of their countrymen were killed in massacres that began 10 years ago this week, many Rwandans lost faith not only in their government but in their religion as well. Today, in what is still a predominantly Catholic country,<span style="font-weight: bold;"> Islam is the fastest growing religion</span>. Roman Catholicism has been the dominant faith in Rwanda for more than a century. But many people, disgusted by the role that some priests and nuns played in the killing frenzy, have shunned organized religion altogether, and many more have turned to Islam..<span style="font-weight: bold;">.The Muslim community now boasts so many converts that it has had to embark on a crash campaign to build new mosques to accommodate all of the faithful. About 500 mosques are scattered throughout Rwanda, about double the number that existed a decade ago. </span>Although no accurate census has been done, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Muslims leaders in Rwanda estimate that they have about a million followers, or about 15 percent of the population. That, too, would represent a doubling of their numbers in the past 10 years.</span>"</span></span><br /><br />My fellow Christian friends, with all the missionaries here in this country, how can this be? I have to ask my self this. Is it true? Well, from what I see, it very well could be true. There are many more well developed and united mosques and Muslim schools around. I hear the chanting prayers from these mosques constantly. I hear many stories of Christian organizations dividing rather than uniting. Is it that we have less passion or power for our King than Islam has for theirs? From what I see, Christians are working separately, while Islam is united. Please share this and urge people to help me build the Kingdom of Christ by supporting <span style="font-weight: bold;">Urukundo for the Children </span>to build new Christian leaders in the children of Rwanda. I know my God is most powerful and there are Christians in the world with the utmost passion for spreading the Kingdom of Christ. Let’s wake up from our daily life comforts or challenges. Let’s get serious, just as Christ was serious for us on the cross.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">THANK YOU ALL!</span><br />I thank God for all your love and support over the years even before I came to Rwanda. My life has been quite a testimony to God’s complete Grace. I pray for you that you too are embracing all that God wants for you. Please continue to pray for this mission and for this marriage. I hope to see you all at the wedding. I will announce when it will be as soon as we have funds and arrangements made. God be with you and shine his face upon you.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Love in Christ Jesus,</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Linda</span><br />---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAISE GOD!!!</span><br />* For answered prayer<br />* For His provisions in “tentmaking”<br />* For Jean-Paul and his health<br />* Provisions to marry in the US<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAYER REQUESTS</span><br />* All my USA supporters<br />* Stability and peace in my housing and all situations in Rwanda<br />* Protection for me and Jean-Paul and our families/friends<br />* Jean-Paul’s health and healing from diabetes<br />* 501c3 for Urukundo for the Children<br />* Board Meeting for Urukundo for the Children<br /></span><span style="font-size:85%;">* my family in US</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">* Job/Tentmaking stability<br />* Provisions and arrangements to marry in the US soon<br />* Jean-Paul’s visa<br /><br />---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PLEASE ADVOCATE FOR THE CHRIST & FOR THE CHILDREN</span><br />I need your help to raise funds to build what God has called me here to build for Him. Gather friends to sponsor lunches, bike rides, run/walks, picnics, bake sales, lemonade stands or concerts for the cause of God’s ministry in Rwanda, to build Christ Is Our Hope School Community Rwanda, a center of hope and God’s blessings, to raise new leaders. There are children who need your help. There’s a nation that needs hope. Help me to stay so I can develop a better education system for them and a future hope in Christ.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TO DONATE TO THIS MISSION, </span><span style="font-weight: bold;">PLEASE SEND CHECKS PAYABLE TO: </span><br />Urukundo for the Children (501c3 pending)<br />4020 Blue Bonnet Blvd., Unit G<br />Houston, Texas 77025<br />Attn: Beth Richards<br />---------------------------------------------------------------------------------<br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:78%;" >PLEASE SUBSCRIBE: If you have not already done so, please subscribe to “Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter” by entering your email address in the subscription field to the right. FeedBurner will send you a CONFIRMATION EMAIL that you must REPLY TO CONFIRM in order to activate your subscription. Please, pass the subscription and blog site on to others to share the testimony and raise support for the mission. God bless you!<br /></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-76039439327889093232009-08-26T12:53:00.000-07:002009-11-01T01:11:59.956-08:00Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Vol.12<span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">[Click on photos to view larger. Click BACK to return to blog]</span></span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif0-KDBDFj9SMjlUgt1l_1YJ36bcMMX9UGGLDLbv4SpOotIbLkutHy-skmFsZpE519Gck1l1noGj6pAKqZakw3c77MkWZ2v6I4lpmwHImEkC2A08RNp_p4-9tNXGAS1qtDxZpfR8_kfOw/s1600-h/wheelchairman.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 106px; height: 142px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEif0-KDBDFj9SMjlUgt1l_1YJ36bcMMX9UGGLDLbv4SpOotIbLkutHy-skmFsZpE519Gck1l1noGj6pAKqZakw3c77MkWZ2v6I4lpmwHImEkC2A08RNp_p4-9tNXGAS1qtDxZpfR8_kfOw/s200/wheelchairman.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375276028857527938" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">August 29, 2009, KIGALI, RWANDA –</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Let me please first cover this blog entry in the Blood of Christ. My dear friends and family. I have missed you all so much. I pray for you and send you the Grace and Peace in my heart, looking forward to sharing all my adventures in Christ with you. Please forgive me for the length of time between blogs. God keeps me moving and busy.<br /><br />I've been busy on my knees and on my feet praying and serving.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">But the privilege and joy of serving a most powerful and loving God never dims. All I do is for His Glory. And along the way, my beautiful God shines His face upon me and grants me an affirming divine smile and reward to comfort me and keep me pressing on. The challenges are ever-present, but God (Jehovah Tsebaioth) is the captain of the Heavenly army that surrounds me and charges ahead of my battles to victory. I am ever-humbled by His pr</span><span style="font-style: italic;">esence and His provisions. I know my God loves me so much as I review daily the testimony of my salvation in Christ Jesus and the miraculous way He rebuilt my life to call me out to mission for Him in Rwanda. Seven years ago I was deep in the pits of depression, today I am entrusted by God with precious souls. He took a weak meek nothing person and made her a soldier in His Kingdom army. He empowered me and He sustains me. He makes me valid in a world of obseleteness. And in all this He shows me the beauty of His works in precious creatures that bless me with their presence in my life. Thank you, God!!!! No words can express my love for you. I can only give you all my life in servitude.<br /><br />What can I say? So much to tell and yet so little space and time. It has been a long and hard few months, as par for the course here in mission field Rwanda. So much has changed and progressed. I finally have a moment to reflect back and share them with you.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">OK. What have I been up to? As I am here, part of my mission is just to be a beacon of light (of Jesus) to those who are here to serve, to share knowledge and counsel to local and non-local servants of God, to bless people with my blessings. I have been here for 2-1/2 years now and my prayers have longed for financial stability, security, strength and direction from God.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">CHANGING OF SEASONS: Tentmaking Season</span><br />As the US Presidential Office changed, so has my season here in Rwanda. The economic downswing, my lengthened stay in Rwanda, and changing of the mission guards has caused donor funds to dwindle. God has now called me, like Apostle Paul, to support myself as a “tentmaker,” working in the mission field to earn my own living funds.<br /><br />As donor funds diminished, I prayed for God’s will and provisions. Do I stay and serve here in Rwanda? Do I go home? Is the mission over? But there is still so much ministering to do. As I prayed over solutions for my inability to pay expenses, God immediately answered by bringing me to the next step of stability in Rwanda. He opened doors to several part-time jobs that allow me to earn some funds while still ministering during off-hours. This was an amazing strategy of provision. Doors just opened up for me to use both my teaching and advertising skills and experiences to support myself and also bless the country as both a teacher of professionalism and an undercover evangelist in the marketplace/workforce. It’s not been easy juggling between jobs and ministry, but still God provides. By day I work in a local ad firm as a Creative Director/Studio Manager. By afternoon I either work on projects, research or assist in ministry areas, or take on private tutoring. By evening I teach Adult English to business professionals. 2009 is the year that Rwanda switched their national language from French to English so many are in desperate need to learn English to save their jobs and companies.<br /><br />At the advertising company my job is not only to manage but to coach and counsel on business ethics, management, administration, organization, professionalism, etc. This country much practical training and resources beyond theory strategies. I do what I can with the experiences and knowledge God has given me in my life. I do this in secular and Christian settings.<br /><br />It was tough balancing different jobs in the beginning, but I’ve gotten the hang of it now. However, I am still in need of funds for living and ministry work. Mostly, God has answered my cries regarding support funds. I still need donations, but now I can supplement with part-time employment. The rest of the time I serve and partner with the church and various ministries as well as research areas of need in educational development for the purpose of proposing a program to train teachers in regular and special education and even inclusive education. Please pray about this proposal. I am hoping to also initiate more concrete programs as soon as my 501c3 gets approved and funds are raised.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcbrvJFspBfrLSvY6VTmyRZUf6OPL6Di8QQ7ujt4-7aRvyhqLxeCSnanZIEcfRlZmNJO06HrY2I4ta2i6FH0e76svrumZgUYs9th03sV0hEhrBT6d0pjlSu-Uaa9e1iKcLaOGBC7RGeKY/s1600-h/image001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 182px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcbrvJFspBfrLSvY6VTmyRZUf6OPL6Di8QQ7ujt4-7aRvyhqLxeCSnanZIEcfRlZmNJO06HrY2I4ta2i6FH0e76svrumZgUYs9th03sV0hEhrBT6d0pjlSu-Uaa9e1iKcLaOGBC7RGeKY/s200/image001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375277426901482402" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">KIGALI HOPE FESTIVAL WITH ANDREW PALAU</span><br />Since January I had been corresponding via email with the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Luis Palau Organization</span> (<a href="http://www.palau.org/news/story/kigali_festival_with_andrew_palau_333">www.palau.org</a>) to offer some help with their evangelism festival coming to Rwanda. Knowing the challenges of the churches and different cultural perspectives on volunteerism, I knew it was not going to be easy to unite the city of Kigali, but all things are possible in Christ. Since then I was recruited for two main coordinating points, to help Palau’s partner <span style="font-weight: bold;">Compassion Connect</span> with a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Season of Service Project</span> – two medical clinics around and during the festival, and managing the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Enric Sifa </span>band for the festival.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ENRIC SIFA RETURNS TO RWANDA</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqg7MFom35WQt87D7DGyPN5c1fbA_aVf54HZPMfSVwoWXvi8BOUGdcl4XUkQ8wvjkmr9TRXfl255kcRCEFQNpAOLKcwo_FDwKBWjO-KYic7mmZncIBaYxL57NYs0z6QFtVMVQHnPGEdUk/s1600-h/image003.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 127px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqg7MFom35WQt87D7DGyPN5c1fbA_aVf54HZPMfSVwoWXvi8BOUGdcl4XUkQ8wvjkmr9TRXfl255kcRCEFQNpAOLKcwo_FDwKBWjO-KYic7mmZncIBaYxL57NYs0z6QFtVMVQHnPGEdUk/s200/image003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375278630712018194" border="0" /></a>Enric Sifa, the former street boy turned evangelist musician from <span style="font-weight: bold;">Africa New Life Ministries</span>, has been living and going to school in America. For the Palau Festival, he was invited to return home to Rwanda to represent his country and share his music and the Gospel to his people. I was honored to assist Enric in coordinating a local band, backup singers, needed equipment and rehearsal space and times. It was a joy to reunite the old Rwandan band about 2 years later for a spectacular event such as Palau festival. The result was very successful and Enric was able to reach many hometown people with his testimony of salvation and life change.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">MEDICAL CLINIC: Reaching Mind, Bodies, and Souls for Jesus</span><br />It was a long awaited festival with little planning time, but God had His way with it. Beyond all the challenges and moving around, the clinic successfully cared for 1,700 patients in 4 days between two locations. These people where not only cared for physically, but spiritually. I saw the most compassionate medical doctors I ever met share the gospel with even more passion. I was so moved!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">COMPASSION CONNECT…BEFORE THEY CAME</span><br />And even before the doctors reached Kigali, they were already saving the life of a friend my dear friend Jean-Paul who was diagnosed with diabetes and was withering away. As soon as I told Gary Tribbett, President of Compassion Direct, (<a href="http://www.compassionconnect.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=48&Itemid=51">www.compassionconnect.com</a>) he hooked me up with Dr. Pamela. She emailed <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB0py5f7YAlH71y4LVkrjRokmjpzneGjBAj1iRPNwndCU8bIyiiWvS7qLX4XLuBCZ8hmHLVwL-o_p7Klbp0i1DXCMgD9l-aFnaN3GMdQJmaooVw2xu78J697TWztMjDzHSzPyqZCUnqAg/s1600-h/image005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 203px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB0py5f7YAlH71y4LVkrjRokmjpzneGjBAj1iRPNwndCU8bIyiiWvS7qLX4XLuBCZ8hmHLVwL-o_p7Klbp0i1DXCMgD9l-aFnaN3GMdQJmaooVw2xu78J697TWztMjDzHSzPyqZCUnqAg/s320/image005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375279495295786674" border="0" /></a>me lab tests to get and examined him from email and then later in-person when she arrived. Diabetes is a very common and survivable condition in the world, but in third world areas such as Rwanda, the knowledge and ability to manage it is tough. There is no government health aid and JP’s insurance was not covering lab tests or medication. Pamela helped me to pay for the lab tests and brought some sample medication to keep JP going while we tried to find some kind of medical aid. Good news! She assured me this was Type 2 diabetes not Type 1. I don’t know how he would have gotten daily insulin injections if he needed it. All these medical expenses on his modest church employee salary. If Pam and I had not intervened, I believe my friend who lost 20 lbs in one week would have been dying in the hospital. It just makes you think about how lucky we are in the United States to have federal medical aid for the needy. I think most people in Rwanda with diabetes don’t get help and just die. Changing diet in a starchy carb-infested dietary culture is tough. There are not many choices besides rice, beans, plantains and potatoes. Its tough to watch people die of something that is manageable on another side of the world. JP and I still struggle to get him stable and manageable, but thanks to Pam’s help he’s looking better and starting to gain weight. Praise God for His connections and His Grace abounding!!! Thanks Dr. Pam from the bottom of our hearts.<br /><br />What Gary Tribbett says about Dr. Pam Pyle: <span style="font-style: italic;">“Pam has a heart of pure gold. Although obviously a skilled physician, her humble attitude and compassionate care led her to prayer over all her patients. Not only was she inspiring to work with, she caught a vision from God that is inspiring a greater work in Kigali . God has his hand on this precious saint.”</span><br /><br /><span>I have been praying for full recovery for JP and today we went to check his blood sugar levels and its miraculously reduced from a dangerous peak of 386 to 160 which is almost normal (116). Its truly a miracle. Praise God!!!!</span> <span>Please continue to pray for his full-recovery, that perhaps he would not need medication anymore. God is able!!!</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3deW0myYOTL0a2PgNwKCXxCjBy_XAM0uIwzhqHzmz5lIwLrUhLWXqyn6sel9IygffqnVUHrdl_PLFAEYpVsVAEgMDh6tR3I5_56FA9-RO_Uy-X3dvQAwgWZYjLYGtKnYMKAfRvVoMJ3U/s1600-h/image007.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 203px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3deW0myYOTL0a2PgNwKCXxCjBy_XAM0uIwzhqHzmz5lIwLrUhLWXqyn6sel9IygffqnVUHrdl_PLFAEYpVsVAEgMDh6tR3I5_56FA9-RO_Uy-X3dvQAwgWZYjLYGtKnYMKAfRvVoMJ3U/s320/image007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375280601540611026" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">GARY TRIBETT’S POST-FESTIVAL NOTES</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">“Among the highlights of the trip was our amazing team. God made us one. I could not be more proud of this group of people. I would gladly go anywhere in the world with them. They shined the love of Jesus through everything they did on this long mission. The work was hard, the hours long and the personal price was high, yet freely and generously they labored. This is truly the Spirit of God at work. We had a team of people ready to give themselves to Christ and the Kingdom of God. I want to just offer some words of praise to God for each one…Linda came through in a fantastic way. It was her dedication that landed many volunteer Doctors at the Stadium as well as translators. This was no easy task. There were hurdles throughout. She met each one in prayer and faith. She has a servant’s heart and is committed to serving Christ long-term in Kigali. We are in debt to her…The interpreters: There were over twenty-five volunteers that we worked with closely that have taken a piece of our hearts. We long for heaven all the more so we can serve the Lord in His sanctuary together. For a short week, there really was no color, only the most beautiful people you can imagine. I miss them…The Rwandan Volunteer Doctors: This has to be a highlight of our mission’s success. As one doctor told me, “This is my dream.” Here is what Rwanda, and the world need, the church to minister the gospel of Jesus to the people who need it so desperately. These men and women who came to serve their people were the most humble, gentle loving people you could ever ask for. It is our great privilege to serve alongside such beautiful people…God is present with the poor. From my perspective, I doubt it would it be possible for God to speak more clearly by words than He has through this demonstration of faith. God has chosen the poor, in the eyes of the world, to be rich in faith. Here was visible evidence that faith is greater than gold. What we could not buy—God freely gives. Isn’t this the message of the gospel? What we could not earn, or purchase, through all our good works and wealth, God gave through Jesus. We are richest when we are broken, broke and helpless; we are best when all we have is our faith in God.” (Gary Tribbett, Compassion Connect President)</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh54D_vMurfh2s8O87hMQsf22d5BzxZUjPWOCTo7mODDYv9m1asgKaXVtdvLpmcieuzAbxGJpN7Hf3Z50zIeQ4-rqaO2uAq13rJH5cDd6mePMT9Zff9SZczjKoG-Jw5MeMPwZhPuEniE0/s1600-h/image009.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 213px; height: 259px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh54D_vMurfh2s8O87hMQsf22d5BzxZUjPWOCTo7mODDYv9m1asgKaXVtdvLpmcieuzAbxGJpN7Hf3Z50zIeQ4-rqaO2uAq13rJH5cDd6mePMT9Zff9SZczjKoG-Jw5MeMPwZhPuEniE0/s320/image009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375281419225673010" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">A TOUCHING STORY FROM GARY</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">“…Douglas works in this field. If anyone would be calloused, it would be Douglas . He’s Rwandan. He lives in Kigali . He sees the hurt every day…He points to a lady in a yellow blouse. “You see that lady . . . she has traveled over four and a half hours to get here.” “She said she didn’t come for pills. She needs a miracle.” She had thought there was going to be a faith healer at the stadium. What she got was us.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Her daughter was nine years old. The previous year the little girl was second in her class in school. She was bright and alive. Now she was loosing her ability to hear or speak. She could barely walk—often falling down. Her memory was almost gone completely. She had been to several doctors; their diagnosis was her brain is atrophied. There is nothing they can do. Douglas turned away to avoid crying in front of me.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">The poverty and hurt was made very personal and individual. It was brought to our doorstep and left with us to address. It was not a plight of the masses. I could she her face and hear her cry. I could almost feel her hope fall to the floor and shatter. It was clearly impacting the heart of this precious servant, Douglas. There was nothing we could do. All week I had been going to the pharmacy to purchase medicine for one thing or another, no pharmacy in the world stocks miracles. We cannot spend our money and reverse this family’s pain. We are powerless to help.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">We have no resource except our faith in Christ. Could we be granted a miracle? Inside I was pleading with God. Grant us this one miracle. We can turn to none but you. Show yourself to this hurting family, Jesus. Heal the sick. Please!</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">We asked Douglas if we could pray for her. Douglas asked her. Her mom and I led her to Dr. Bailey’s exam room. On the way I took her hand to help her walk. She fell a couple of times. As I helped her get her feet under her and regain her balance, she would look up and grin. I wondered where she got all this joy.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">We gathered to pray. Up walked Pastor Peter from Uganda. He took charge of the prayer and prayed like a faithful Pentecostal could. He commanded Satan to leave. He spoke healing and called on the name of Jesus. Others prayed. At the end of the prayer, this little girl turned her smiling face to Peter and spoke in very clear Kenya-Rwandan. “Good job Pastor. That was a good prayer.” You’ll recall that it was reported that she couldn’t speak, and hadn’t until that moment.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Douglas interpreted for us. Then she moved her arm in a sweeping motion catching our eyes and smiling from ear to ear. “Thank you for praying. Keep praying for me. I trust God that I will be okay.” This was from a hurting nine-year-old.”</span></span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjVe8-UyNNE7sc__Ww1UQ-BUYAdy93Knusv2cWv5Y9iS-lJNxZ0b1iKOyRIaumszc-QFwcTJn1k6xrIXfPseUXj9y4qXXNfob7sq-yDCfwrCowL5AuUbL0rF4WInr_cr1F6QoV-ZzHwNM/s1600-h/image011.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 229px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjVe8-UyNNE7sc__Ww1UQ-BUYAdy93Knusv2cWv5Y9iS-lJNxZ0b1iKOyRIaumszc-QFwcTJn1k6xrIXfPseUXj9y4qXXNfob7sq-yDCfwrCowL5AuUbL0rF4WInr_cr1F6QoV-ZzHwNM/s320/image011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375282743303547954" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">THE FESTIVAL</span><br />According to Palau, there were approximately 7,000 people at the two-day festival. Backstage, I saw all nations and churches come together to love Jesus. The American performers included <span style="font-weight: bold;">Nicole C. Mullins</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Building 429</span>. I saw these celebrity performers walk with such grace, wanting to just serve Christ through the people of Rwanda. They reflected such humility and eagerness to love on people. I am praying to re-connect with them to do further work in Rwanda in the future. Thanks Nicole and Building 429. Please keep in touch.<br /><br />Volunteerism in Rwanda is not what we think of in America. The NGOs have made volunteerism about getting compensation for time and transportation. So, from the beginning I foresaw problems. But God came through as I knew He would. Many of my friends volunteered from their hearts (however, I still gave them some transport and lunch funds because they spent all day and night volunteering for 5 days). And they told friends and so on. We were not in lack of Rwandan translators and helpful hearts. For me, to see the collaboration of locals and westerners really made my whole 2-1/2 years mean something. It was a miracle. This even was truly a first time historical event for Rwanda. The churches had never come together in such a way. It wasn’t perfect. Many didn’t come through as promised, but others did. It was tough to explain to the churches what we were trying to do. They only know the single church organized crusades, seminars, concerts, and revivals that are weekly and monthly events here in Rwanda. In fact, most go for music and spontaneous physical healings. To explain to them that western doctors and famous musicians are coming voluntarily to give love and service (not money) and just celebrate in a block party…was beyond them. They didn’t know what we were asking them to do when we asked for them to be a part of it.<br /><br />All in all, Jesus had His way with everyone, with the entire event. People got to see love without color or money. I was blessed and Rwanda was blessed. I hope Palau comes back to Rwanda some day. I know now the churches will be ready to volunteer this time. Or maybe some of the connections I made from the festival will birth similar efforts.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAY FOR 501c3</span><br />I am still in the process of filing 501c3. I have turned in plans and budget to an organization that specializes in registering nonprofits, whom I have hired and paid in full to handle the legal filing of the organization and to consult me on setup. However, it has taken them quite some time. I spent every last dime I had in the world on this from selling off whatever I owned in the US. Please help me pray that they get everything together and file with the IRS and get approval by the end of 2009. The trend in dealings with organizations since my mission began is one of lack of communication and response to my emails and requests. Its truly so difficult for me to be living in Rwanda and still have to turn things around in the US. I have prayed so much in depth about this (whether to go back to US to live and raise funds or to stay) and I feel that God has me living here 24/7 year-round for a purpose. I have become a part of the meat of this country. There are struggles, but I am immersed in every day of movement and development. People see me as local people and they trust me to tell me the insider truths. God has given me such favor with the people. He has allowed me the privilege of hearing their minds, hearts, and voices speak about each other, about foreigners, about everything. Of course, it’s been a challenge sorting out the lies from the truths, but nevertheless, God is with me. Many people are still suffering without help while others are profiting from corruption. I see this and I pray about what I can do and how I can be different. I pray about how to share the truths without slandering…. please, pray with me about this as well. For the most part, I need 501c3 so I can start raising money through donations and grants to initiate programs where I see much need. My major project is to build the Christ Is Our Hope School Community Rwanda (Jesus’ school to raise new leaders). I will be here to manage and train, to see where the money goes.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">CONTINUING MY STUDIES</span><br />I also thank God for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Inspire Women</span> in Houston who have been with me since the beginning of this all and continue to support me in various ways. Thank you IW for the scholarship to take a <span style="font-weight: bold;">DTS (Dallas Theological Seminary) </span>correspondence CD course from Rwanda this Fall so that I may continue to grow with the Word of God and develop my ministry skills. I am working on my <span style="font-style: italic;">Masters in Biblical Studies</span>. This Fall I am taking a course in <span style="font-weight: bold;">Church Leadership and Administration</span>. I will be studying how to run, develop, and maintain an organization according to practical and Biblical teachings. All this as I work with churches and build my own organization. I pray that God will reveal to me how to establish His vision and how to advise church leaders here in Rwanda. Thanks, Inspire Women! You are my family. I love you so much.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PASTORAL WEDDING BELLS!!!</span><br />The pastor of my former church Rwanda Victory Mission got married this month in Rwanda. She and her husband, my good dear friend, are residing in USA as she completes her studies at Victory Bible Institute in Oklahoma. I thank God that they have found each other and pray for their marriage and ministry union. I was privileged to attend the "Gusaba" ("The Introduction" - part 1 of the Rwandan customary wedding) here in Rwanda. Thye will be finalizing their wedding the the USA. I wish I could be there physically, but spiritually my thoughts and prayers are with them. I am so happy for them. Congratulations and many many blessings, Josephine and Fred.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">BABIES IN BIBLE STUDY</span><br />I am attempting to start an English Bible Study class during the English service at Rwanda For Jesus, my church. Please pray for this. God showed me that it was such a waste for the children to sit idle and restless during service. They should be learning the Word and growing into little Bible Leaders. Please pray for the organizing and coordinating of this. Getting things to follow-thru here is not easy.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbUI6lM8YfvS2bvC5BZbF2ZJtihXycWExvpdOANj5IusZ1NhHpiNJA-O68q9QvGylnwxGvjYytzO_LzpEHC7-ICcDyRc3xXWNcSC1HLEaZdp8UO09Bj6D-qsgVk7WZkWBakhft4AjibRA/s1600-h/IMG_0015.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 100px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbUI6lM8YfvS2bvC5BZbF2ZJtihXycWExvpdOANj5IusZ1NhHpiNJA-O68q9QvGylnwxGvjYytzO_LzpEHC7-ICcDyRc3xXWNcSC1HLEaZdp8UO09Bj6D-qsgVk7WZkWBakhft4AjibRA/s200/IMG_0015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5375283544927945362" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">MY LOVE FOR YOU</span><br />For all my readers and supporters, I love you sooo much. As you can see, there is so much stirring. Your prayers have been felt so much over here in Rwanda over the years as I surpassed the challenges. My family and friends, your belief in me and God humbles and sustains me. It pains me that I miss out on your lives in the US. I even miss out on the precious growing moments of my precious beloved nieces and nephews, brothers and sisters...having missed the births of two more beautiful babies in the family (all my love to Ella and Beckett). I pray for funds to be able to return soon to see these loved ones, to further organize <span style="font-weight: bold;">Urukundo for the Children</span>, and to see you all. I pray for all this and bless you all in the name of Jesus.<br /><br />Let me please just end this blog with the SERENITY PRAYER that has kept me going since the day I found Jesus in 2002.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"> <span style="font-style: italic;">God grant me the SERENITY<br />to </span> <span style="font-style: italic;">accept the things I cannot change;</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />COURAGE to change the things I can</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />and WISDOM to know the difference.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />LIVING one day at a time;</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />ENJOYING one moment at a time;</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">ACCEPTING hardships as the pathway to peace;</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />TAKING, as He did, this sinful world</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />As it is, not as I would have it;</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />TRUSTING that He will make all things right</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />if I surrender to His Will;</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />That I may be reasonably happy in this life</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />and supremely Happy with Him forever in the next.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br />Amen</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />"The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD's favor and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion -- to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, and a garment of praise instead of a spirit of despair. They will be called oaks of righteousness, a planting of the LORD for the display of his splendor." (Isaiah 61:1-3, NIV)</span></span><br /><br />Please continue to pray for me. There are more and more things stirring and changing. I see that God is concocting something tremendous soon. I will continue to keep you posted as you are a vital part of the mission. God bless you all truly!!!!!<br /><br />Love in Christ Jesus,<br />Linda<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><br />PRAISE GOD!!!<br />* For a great festival<br />* For His provisions in “tentmaking”<br />* For His answers<br />* For his undying abundant love<br />* For the special love He has brought to my life<br />* For the jobs and stability that is developing<br />* For the Inspire Women scholarship to take a DTS Masters course by correspondence<br /><br />PRAYER REQUESTS<br />* All my USA supporters<br />* 501c3 for Urukundo for the Children<br />* For my new season in Rwanda<br />* For health and safety<br />* For provision and direction<br />* For my jobs to work out well<br />* For a special new relationship in my life<br />* For funds to return to US to see family and friends and to develop Urukundo for the Children<br />* For finishing the recording of the Bridge To Rwanda CD album to benefit Urukundo for the Children<br />* For the DTS class I am taking from Rwanda by CD correspondence<br />* For discernment about my life and ministry<br />* For protection from deceit<br /></span><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">PLEASE SUBSCRIBE: If you have not already done so, please subscribe to “Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter” by entering your email address in the subscription field to the right. FeedBurner will send you a CONFIRMATION EMAIL that you must REPLY TO CONFIRM in order to activate your subscription. Please, pass the subscription and blog site on to others to share the testimony and raise support for the mission. God bless you!</span></span><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"> <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">PLEASE ADVOCATE FOR THE CHRIST & FOR THE CHILDREN</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">I need your help to raise funds to build what God has called me here to build for Him. Gather friends to sponsor lunches, bike rides, run/walks, picnics, bake sales, lemonade stands or concerts for the cause of God’s ministry in Rwanda, to build Christ Is Our Hope School Community Rwanda, a center of hope and God’s blessings, to raise new leaders. There are children who need your help. There’s a nation that needs hope. Help me to stay so I can develop a better education system for them and a future hope in Christ.</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">TO DONATE TO THIS MISSION </span><br />PLEASE SEND CHECKS PAYABLE TO:<br />Urukundo for the Children (501c3 pending)<br />4020 Blue Bonnet Blvd., Unit G<br />Houston, Texas 77025<br />Attn: Beth Richards<br /></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-56764534065067432592009-03-29T23:31:00.005-07:002009-11-01T01:14:21.731-08:00Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Vol. 11<span style="font-size:85%;">[Click on photos to view larger. Click Back to return to block]</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxF4luolZzdX_o-H3d7Y00uUg27Kb6zlGaGpr_Arx7OIwT6pvpD51TfUpHWQejRsfyd_KtJtMEHFY2naDpm-gUGOV2dq3bELslVPLh0ID6ZIXZ_6TK3_lGKLj5J1qw2t7FFFnnu-ceMgg/s1600-h/image001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 187px; height: 141px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxF4luolZzdX_o-H3d7Y00uUg27Kb6zlGaGpr_Arx7OIwT6pvpD51TfUpHWQejRsfyd_KtJtMEHFY2naDpm-gUGOV2dq3bELslVPLh0ID6ZIXZ_6TK3_lGKLj5J1qw2t7FFFnnu-ceMgg/s320/image001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318951192062394722" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">March 29, 2009, KIGALI, RWANDA</span> – <span style="font-style: italic;">Whew! I serve a powerful God who is able to do all things…and He is allowing me to be a conduit for His goodness. How blessed I am! I thank God every day for using me so fully that I am so busy. Truly, I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me. My friends and family, I thank you for your patience in awaiting my blog updates. I pray for your welfare and your growth in Christ. I pray that He opens your eyes, your mind, and your heart to join me in worshiping such an awesome God. I speak peace and love into your lives.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Each day I face challenges of this world coming at me from both US and Rwanda. Its difficult to serve from one side of the world, but get your support from the other side of the world. People forget you and get caught up with their own lives. This is quite a trip God has me tackling. I can’t even describe for you all the ways the enemy tries to stop me. Each day I face the limitations and persecutions of the world as well as my own flesh and I pray for God’s forgiveness and mercy. Each day He grants me the utmost forgiveness, fuels me for the journey ahead, and carries me through each obstacle. And with that I am rewarded greater faith in my Lord. I wish I had the Kinyarwanda language fully in my grasp so that I may directly share with the people of Rwanda the full passion I have for Jesus and the full love He has placed in my heart for the people of Rwanda. How He has truly rescued me from a life of darkness and continues to rescue me daily from the crevices of life. As I share with you the updated status of my mission in Rwanda, I hope it is not just news, but that you see Jesus moving throughout my life, loving me, growing me, blessing me, strengthening me. Daily I face accusations of faith, flesh, opinions, contradictory advice, discouragements, challenges of survival funds, and just time restraints…but I always fall back on the Truth of Jesus who saved me…who took on painful human flesh to crucify my sins and my pains on the cross. So, daily I press on knowing that my challenges, my pains, my struggles are nothing compared to what He took on for me and have already been won on the cross by my Lord Jesus.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">God continues to do a work in transitioning me to the next steps of the mission here in Rwanda. I am transitioning from World Relief project to many other projects as God directs me...</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A BETTER LEARNING ENVIRONMENT</span><br />As I transition from World Relief and process the startup of my own organization, God has graciously allowed me to serve briefly at another NGO as Education Program Director at a small school for needy children and to assess and grow the education program, train teachers, and help develop resources. I believe this is another learning and transitional step to building Urukundo for the Children.<br /><br />My first challenge was finding a new English speaking teacher for the primary school. I have been immersed in interviewing multitudes of candidates of questionable qualifications to train and trust with the future of the children. The primary school is currently P1-4 with about 200 students of whom many are HIV and orphans. Their education has been spotty so their knowledge and performance is also spotty. Some are illiterate, others are confused. This experience has been quite eye-awakening. This year the government abruptly changed the national language to English (from French and Kinyarwanda) so all subjects must now be taught in English. This is a challenge as even the teachers do not know English well, but now must teach all subjects in English. Finding a Rwandaise teacher who speaks correct English and can teach it on limited funds is a true challenge. Many people think they speak English, but they have learned spotty English laced with bad grammar taught by teachers who also have limited English capacity. I cannot allow the children to learn anything but correct English so it’s a task. Posting jobs here is not the same as the US. We went church to church asking them to announce the need and the word of a job opening spread like wildfire. And I have been getting all sorts of strange calls from people Please pray for good teachers<br /><br />Praise God! We were finally blessed with a new headmaster so I am excited about having someone to help me train and manage the staff and children. Please pray for our work together to be blessed for the sake of the children.<br /><br />We are also hoping to start English classes to support the community in the national transition to English which will effect many people's job qualifications.<br /><br />Please pray for us as we end the first of three terms and start our teacher training week. Pray for willingness in the current teachers. Also pray as I assess 200 students and re-plan a more effective system for their academic growth.<br /><br /><a style="font-weight: bold;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAhzzijFl3lAsFqq6HzwJ1XQVf9pG4zx8-5W_L0LMflNVn_T6GKwmZGwn_qJ-Yg03r_Qo3p7vJVEG6PeDiZXZU41kgfT8Z8wpx5JqUk-_ktHnLru64rXytdg4RzeOlo7VxHPMph0IB-oM/s1600-h/image005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 227px; height: 292px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAhzzijFl3lAsFqq6HzwJ1XQVf9pG4zx8-5W_L0LMflNVn_T6GKwmZGwn_qJ-Yg03r_Qo3p7vJVEG6PeDiZXZU41kgfT8Z8wpx5JqUk-_ktHnLru64rXytdg4RzeOlo7VxHPMph0IB-oM/s320/image005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318952437433739762" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">GOOD FRIENDS, GOOD MINISTRY</span><br />God has blessed me with a precious friend, Ezra, who is Ugandan/Rwandaise married to a Canadian nurse, Mona. They have a ministry of former mayibobo street boys (homeless children) that they took off the streets and support in a communal house. These boys have testimonies of living hungry on the streets, being beaten up, stealing and being put in jails or enslaved in child labor. I have befriended and been visiting these eight boys weekly and helping to fellowship in Christ-likeness and teach Bible. I have taken them on outings to play B-ball and shown them movies. On our B-ball outing we worshiped under a straw canopy and the neighborhood kids joined us. We played and shared cookies. There must have been about 20 kids in addition to the 8.<br /><br />These boys are hungry for Jesus and precious as can be. They range from about age 10-17. Just a few weeks ago they ran out of food while Ezra was out of town, so I took your donated funds and bought them a few days worth of food. They had been praying for it becaus<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOeZq4JV9fa1KJRmFRnF-RWhdOHlBF-Jm_kedSkNOh6JEEM6UUkBIRytqdY8mR-61nRurujedHoO2qUBbxG5qOZk4kwj3e5TzJOy90cYwi-tMmLpGFjncvZu1KH5ET8BN3REGw9azg7Rw/s1600-h/image007a.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 215px; height: 169px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOeZq4JV9fa1KJRmFRnF-RWhdOHlBF-Jm_kedSkNOh6JEEM6UUkBIRytqdY8mR-61nRurujedHoO2qUBbxG5qOZk4kwj3e5TzJOy90cYwi-tMmLpGFjncvZu1KH5ET8BN3REGw9azg7Rw/s320/image007a.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318953148368878002" border="0" /></a>e they were just on their last meal. These boys are in my heart and sealed in Christ. They are precious. Please help me to help them more. I want to purchase them English Bibles and teach them English through Bible Studies. I hope to visit them weekly and be a light of Jesus in their lives. As I get to know them more, we share testimonies and they ask me questions about life, the Bible, and God. They are hungry. Pray for Ezra and Mona as they strive to raise funds to continue to support these and other boys who would otherwise perish on the streets. God has a plan for their future.<br /><br />Last week I went to worship with them and teach Bible, along with my friend Christian from church who graciously volunteers his time with me (and is the most awesome keyboardist in town). I opened the forum for questions and they were so attentive. They had a lot of questions. I shared my testimony with them and planted some seeds. Sometimes I show movies like Facing the Giants and Billy Graham’s Something to Sing About which blesses them with Christian lessons. These kids are now impressed in my heart.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">LISTEN TO MY SONGS</span><br />I met Ezra and Pastor P (the guy in blue leading worship on Bball day) when they produced my songs at Ezra’s studio. I have recorded two songs that God gave me and I am <span style="font-weight: bold;">hoping to raise more funds to record four more songs for an album</span> to benefit my organization Urukundo for the Children, spread hope and awareness, and help local vulnerable children. Please check on my<span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;"> facebook PAGE to hear the songs <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Linda-Huang/47848446434?nctrct=1238740675133#/pages/Linda-Huang/47848446434?v=box_3&viewas=1034294170">“Bridge to Rwanda” and “Urukundo for the Children.”</a></span> Pastor P even asked me to sing Urukundo for the Children at his concert, which got alot of response to the song subject. The songs may be downloaded through <span style="font-weight: bold;">SnoCap for 99cents </span>which goes to my living support to serve in Rwanda and to support and develop other projects to support the children. Both these songs were given to me from God. “Bridge to Rwanda” is God’s vision of hope in Rwanda and my original call to return to serve indefinitely here in Rwanda. “Urukundo for the Children” is the namesake of my organization and the song is about the “mayibobo” street boys. But the song is for all the kids in the world who have no parents or home. God remembers you and loves you. God inspired me to record this in Rwanda as they are birthed in Rwanda and about hope for Rwanda. <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Anyone interested in contributing funds or in-kind donations, please send checks to Urukundo for the Children at 4020 Blue Bonnet, Unit G, Houston, TX 77025, Attn: Beth Richards</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">URUKUNDO FOR THE CHILDREN</span><br />My organization Urukundo for the Children (501c3 pending) is finally incorporated in Houston, Texas. Praise God! Now, <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">please pray for the final step of making the Budget and submitting to the IRS for 501c3 status. </span>God led me to start this organization to fulfill the original calling and vision from God. The organization will initiate specific projects to help children around the world, starting in Rwanda. There are still many children who are discarded and thrown away by the world system, who have fallen through the cracks of rescue efforts. This includes countless homeless children and children with disabilities from all economic backgrounds that are hidden <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXbTb1lWL9Ff8r3s9eXjVoOYafzKH4Lfsy80E4TBUk6C9yIQIvfZW_nAKP9Pkg3s6wXMpajVLQgeNyvAgUVYTq-Zhjai6s4TgamHse65rWQqEish6C0FTDU9Nd_jeIeSbD6QamsPy3M8/s1600-h/UrukundoLogo3_cds.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 165px; height: 104px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTXbTb1lWL9Ff8r3s9eXjVoOYafzKH4Lfsy80E4TBUk6C9yIQIvfZW_nAKP9Pkg3s6wXMpajVLQgeNyvAgUVYTq-Zhjai6s4TgamHse65rWQqEish6C0FTDU9Nd_jeIeSbD6QamsPy3M8/s320/UrukundoLogo3_cds.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319013953095603170" border="0" /></a>in hopeless closets. God has called me to work directly with the people to find these hidden children and provide some hope in survival and a future. We will also support the education and efforts of existing and future leaders of churches and ministries to develop more capable resources to help train communities to care for their children, to walk in Jesus’ footsteps. The goal is to build knowledge and Christian integrity to take on responsibility. <span style="font-style: italic;">“Urukundo” </span>means<span style="font-style: italic;"> “love”</span> in Kinyarwanda, the native language of Rwanda. Urukundo for the Children is God’s love for the precious children. They are the hope of the future. We must take care of their mind, body and spirit to nurture and develop the future leaders of peace. Please join me in starting this grassroots effort.<br /><br />In my time here I have seen so much mismanagement of funds and visions gone unknowingly astray due to culture disconnects and lack of accountability. I praise God that He has given me favor with the people of Rwanda who share with me their perceptions of the state of affairs in Rwanda and share their hearts with me. Our goal is to always work directly with the people within the culture and always train for accountability and to multiply the effort. We strive not to get lost in the shuffle of corporate growth and bureaucracy. I will always personally follow the funds directly to the children. Our main project goal is to eventually build schools for Christ (owned and run by Christ, credited to Christ) to raise up his orphaned children His Way, the <span style="font-weight: bold;">Christ Is Our Hope School Community Rwanda</span>. This is the vision and answer that He gave me in 2006 in Cyangugu when I asked Him what He wants me to do. He said “build my schools.” I will write more later as the organization develops. Please join us and pray for us. Thank you! Pray for the 501c3 to clear quickly.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">KIGALI HOPE FESTIVAL (ANDREW PALAU)</span><br />I have taken on a side project of helping to consult with the Palau festival which is coming to Rwanda in July. I am assisting with <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Compassion Connect</span> who heads the <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Season of Service </span>project for Palau. We are organizing a four day free clinic of volunteer doctors and nurses from US and Rwanda to care for local sick people. We are also uniting leaders and volunteers from all the local churches to help organize this. Pray for this extraordinary task. Churches here do not usually work together except for musical purposes so it’s a challenge. People also don't volunteer without monetary compensation. Also pray for organization amidst a very laid back culture. I am helping Palau and Compassion Connect be an American liaison here in Rwanda to consult on cultural differences and to check on logistical accountability of the project. Please pray for the success of the community volunteer projects and the festival at Amahoro stadium in July. Their goal of unity will truly bless the country and bless God, so I am fully on board to contribute what I can to even an inch of their success.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">MY NEW CHURCH FAMILY: RWANDA FOR JESUS</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVd1YxUKEW7evqW4TeGHhgQqKRDwbLDPKL31BjZYQkxfVcB69l9pocxbORH1NBvsnPjvea31HunQUaRGs4Ken9aIyjVXQXwGDrJUbl798Vg74tD_BBNtFR-A_rldMHo3c7rA9rhOarSg0/s1600-h/image009.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 207px; height: 294px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVd1YxUKEW7evqW4TeGHhgQqKRDwbLDPKL31BjZYQkxfVcB69l9pocxbORH1NBvsnPjvea31HunQUaRGs4Ken9aIyjVXQXwGDrJUbl798Vg74tD_BBNtFR-A_rldMHo3c7rA9rhOarSg0/s320/image009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318953775074915506" border="0" /></a>I have joined a new church and I am just loving it so much. Rwanda For Jesus is headed by Pastor Steven Gashumba. He is a truly anointed pastor who teaches the people to change their attitude and ways, to follow in Jesus’ footsteps. And I have seen how extraordinary the people are. I am honored to serve them and help <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Pastor Gashumba</span> develop the church administration.<br /><br />I have been welcomed so graciously by the worship team. In fact, we just finished their first CD release concert. The album is called <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">“Sinzibagirana” </span>which means <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">“I will never be forgotten.”</span> I helped to design the album cover and I am designing the church website. I also teach English worship songs to the team and sometimes I lead a few songs in the English service. God has called me way out of my comfort zone, but He always gets me through.<br /><br />I have joined the international (English speaking) G12 cell group. This means Government of 12. Most of the people in my group are Kenyan missionaries or pastors. Its awesome. I have found so many new friends. Sometimes I host the meetings at my house.<br /><br />Please help me to help this pastor grow. I am seeking opportunities to scholarship and train him in short leadership programs like those at College of Biblical Studies in the US. I am also looking for opportunities and host accommodations in Houston for my Rwandan pastor to meet with my US pastor and other pastors and churches to learn about growing church communities. Pastor Gashumba has a unique and sincere vision to build a church of servant leaders for Christ in Rwanda. He thinks big and pro-actively. He wants to raise Rwandan missionaries for the world to glorify Christ. <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Anyone interested in hosting accommodations and transportation for my Pastor Gashumba and showing him around in August 2009 (OR better yet funding my air ticket to accompany him so I can host him and transport him around), please contact me at LHSATORI@yahoo.com.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">OTHER TEACHING AND GUEST APPEARANCES</span><br />I continue to be invited to lead worship or teach Bible at churches and conferences. When I appear I represent an international perspective of Christ. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Campus Crusades International </span>has asked me to lead worship at their <span style="font-weight: bold;">Leadership Conferences</span> and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bethsaida Ministries </span>(local unity of young leaders trained in Christ) invites me to teach.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SUPPORT STATUS</span><br />Friends, in order to remain in Rwanda to continue to serve God and model Christ, I need to be able to pay rent, bills, food, and my guard’s salary, not to mention gasoline, car insurance and maintenance. Right now I am stretching dwindling funds. Please advocate for me and the kids. It pains me when children need thinkgs and I cannot pull out funds to help because I don't have funds to even live. Please help me to have a pocket full of grace for the kids.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">TO DONATE TO THE STARTUP OF MY ORGANIZATION</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">URUKUNDO FOR THE CHILDREN (501c3 pending)</span><br />Make a check payable to “Urukundo for the Children” and send to:<br />Urukundo for the Children<br />4020 Blue Bonnet Blvd., Unit G<br />Houston, TX 77025<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PLEASE ADVOCATE FOR US, FOR THE CHILDREN</span><br />Please be my advocate of prayer and fundraising. I need your help. Gather friends to sponsor bike rides, run/walks, picnics, bake sales, or concerts for the cause of Esther’s Aid and all the ministry God has brought to me in Rwanda. There are children who need your help. There’s a nation that needs hope. Help me to stay so I can develop a better education system for them and a future hope in Christ.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PLEASE PRAY</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Pray the Word Ministries</span> has graciously offered to organize prayer periodical prayer support meetings. Please contact them if you want to join the Prayer Warrior Group for my mission Rwanda. Visit www.praytheword.org or contact Jerrel Altic at Houston's First Baptist Church.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAISE GOD!!!</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">* For new Headmaster<br />* For reduced visa fee<br />* Sustaining me through trials and challenges<br />* For my local and intl friends and family<br />* For my church Rwanda for Jesus</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAYER REQUESTS</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">* Fundraising for my support<br />* All my USA supporters<br />* Budget and 501c3 for Urukundo for the Children<br />* Teacher training week and working with new headmaster<br />* Communication and work relations<br />* Ezra's boys and the entire Narrow Road Ministries<br />* Organization of my support funds<br />* Rwanda For Jesus church and development<br />* All Palau festival oraganization and relationships<br />* Relationships new and old<br />* Means to financial stability so I can stay indefinitely to serve<br />* Renewal of my visa<br />* Funds to finish the Bridge to Rwanda album<br />* Funds to travel to Burundi and to return to Uganda to minister<br />* Spiritual and physical strength to persevere the challenges<br />* Time management, budgeting & safety</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">All in all, I am really blessed to serve. God takes care of everything. I have a few small jobs to make some ends meet. I teach after school programs at the Belgian School, and tutor a few kids. So, between full-time volunteer ministering, I also hop from job to job. It stretches me, but God makes me able. God is also building a diverse pool of friends and family in the Rwandans to stabilize my environment. He truly will not forsake me. I pray for further stabilization so that I may stay indefinitely to make a difference here for His Kingdom. As funds dwindle, I asked God if its time to go home, and as you see He has not packed my bags. There is so much ministry yet to do.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">There is a hunger to know God and His way of life. Many are deceitful out of hunger for the material because they don’t know any other way. I believe that everything I do here is God’s work, just shining of Jesus in all I do, modeling sincerity and integrity in Christ. People are perplexed and don’t really know why and how I serve as a volunteer. Some don’t believe me and think I have a pot of gold sustaining me somewhere. My pot of gold is in the Kingdom of Heaven. Right now I count on God’s grace to sustain me, and people like you who God inspires to invest in this mission to shine for Jesus in Rwanda. His vision of hope in Rwanda is true. He has not forsaken me or His Word. I believe in God with all my heart. Many will judge me or second guess me, but I stand by what my Lord has told and shown me. This is all my life, to belong to Jesus, to serve Him, to bring His brilliant light of Hope to others.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">This was a quick synopsis of what is in the works. Sorry, I am kept so busy that I hadn’t had time to sit and write and put photos together. Pray for time to blog. I am on facebook too if you want to get quick one line updates and prayer requests. I welcome emails or postcards just to say hello. It truly encourages me to hear from people. I love you all and miss you. Please find me on facebook and join my CAUSE to raise funds and spread awareness.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">God bless you all so much. I love you all. PRAY FOR ME & THE KIDS, PLEASE! Imana arabakunda (God loves you)! Ndagukunda cyane (I love you very much)!</span><br /><br />Love in Christ Jesus,<br />Linda<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:78%;"><span style="font-style: italic;">PLEASE SUBSCRIBE: If you have not already done so, please subscribe to “Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter” by entering your email address in the subscription field to the right. FeedBurner will send you a CONFIRMATION EMAIL that you must REPLY TO CONFIRM in order to activate your subscription. Please, pass the subscription and blog site on to others to share the testimony and raise support for the mission. God bless you!</span></span></span><span style="font-size:85%;"><br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-5077337266498229142009-02-05T10:02:00.000-08:002009-11-01T01:19:50.743-08:00Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Vol. 10<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2VIo4CSaGblN6Eq2wbliXsBJ-dSqGGYWeROAqb1LT8rnffEpalzvGeVUzdf0ii_dUbPyNmNUBf0Mqw4JSVE5-zY-RXJPHrkqYjnOwLwUBJuzpapXJ9FL0-K_x8kw_JzASTQaU0306Sk/s1600-h/mebaby.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 149px; height: 188px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEha2VIo4CSaGblN6Eq2wbliXsBJ-dSqGGYWeROAqb1LT8rnffEpalzvGeVUzdf0ii_dUbPyNmNUBf0Mqw4JSVE5-zY-RXJPHrkqYjnOwLwUBJuzpapXJ9FL0-K_x8kw_JzASTQaU0306Sk/s320/mebaby.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5299380486963297266" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">February 4, 2009, KIGALI, RWANDA – </span>Dear Friends & Family: No, I have not moved to China. That is my earliest photo. Since I don't have any photos to post and today is my birthday I am posting Baby Linda. God knew this little baby was going to be a missionary in Rwanda many years later. I miss you all so much. I pray for you always because of your love and commitment to Christ and to this mission.<br /><br />I apologize for the long silence, but my new year started quite tumultuously. I needed time to let God work things out. It was a difficult turning of seasons and changing of guards. Nevertheless, God has worked everything out for good. He’s so good like that.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">ESTHER’S AID</span><br />Praise God, He has answered my prayers for a new assignment within the scope of my calling to serve children of Rwanda under safe covering. He has confirmed that it is His will for me to stay in Rwanda another year. Between now and May I will be on double duty as I am transitioning from World Relief to serve with <span style="font-weight: bold;">EA for Needy and Abandoned Children</span>, a 501c3 nonprofit that has been doing awesome things for Jesus in Rwanda for 8 years. I will be working directly with the founder and director to develop the ministry, particularly EA School for orphans. From now until end of May I will continue to teach World Relief staff periodically at workshops upon their request, but most of my time is spent developing a primary level teacher training and evaluation program and overseeing activities of EA ministry, including skills training for impoverished and displaced youth. We currently have around 200 students of Primary 1-4 (who are entirely scholarshipped to EA School) and 80 older skills training students. I have seen lives turned from the streets and prostitution because of this skills program. Of course, all of this is founded on Biblical training as well. EA also supports hundreds of other children outside of its own school with school fees.<br /><br />We are also working on a somewhat confidential project to rehabilitate child prostitutes through Christ and skills training. Please pray for this very difficult but needed project. I will not be able to show you any photos of this project nor talk too much in detail, but will update you with progress and prayer requests. There are children starting from age 10 being entrapped and trafficked into child sex labor. Once you are in, it’s tough to get out. A lot of these children are orphans or have been exiled from their families so they have no means of food and shelter except to continue the only way they know how to earn money. We are working on plans and grants for funds to build a rehab house. Please, please pray for this.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NETWORKING & TEACHING</span><br />Praise God! I am also meeting new people and ministries to form a network of friends in Christ Jesus who support each other’s missions in prayer and service. I continue to get invited to teach young professionals about life in service to God.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NEW CHURCH</span><br />I have also joined a new church called <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rwanda for Jesus</span> that has stronger English service, great teaching, and sound leadership to help me grow. Please pray for this relationship. I will share more about it as it progresses. Of course I have joined the worship team.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">MY MUSIC</span><br />Since I have been in Rwanda God has been just showering me with the gift of writing and playing music. I have just completed my first recording of 2 songs that God inspired me to write about Rwanda: <span style="font-weight: bold;">Urukundo for the Children </span>and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bridge to Rwanda</span>. I will be trying to get this on facebook for you to hear. Please purchase and download the songs on Snocap, all proceeds will go to support me and the mission projects. <embed src="http://void.snocap.com/s/T3-31324-98G3P32NF2-C/" wmode="transparent" style="background: transparent url(http://void.snocap.com/b/T3-31324-98G3P32NF2-C/) repeat scroll 0% 0%; -moz-background-clip: -moz-initial; -moz-background-origin: -moz-initial; -moz-background-inline-policy: -moz-initial;" height="300" width="425"></embed> Please send this link to all your friends to also purchase these heart songs. Thanks!<br /><br />I am also negotiating and exploring many other Christian music promotions opportunities, ways to grow His musical servants.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">KIGALI HOPE FESTIVAL: Andrew Palau</span><br />Finally, I just had an awesome meeting with the Luis Palau Association and they are coming to produce Andrew Palau’s Kigali Hope Festival. I will be consulting and helping them. What an honor to be involved in trying to unite the city and churches of Kigali in Christ Jesus.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">RAISING SUPPORT FOR 2009-2010: BIRTHDAY REQUEST</span><br />Friends and Family, your support will allow me to continue serving in Rwanda. I must raise funds in order to sustain living here and serving here for another year. <span style="font-weight: bold;">This is what I wish for my birthday and all the birthdays to come</span>. My heart is so bonded to the hearts of Rwanda and so devoted to serving God.<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>This includes cost of visa, car insurance, travel for ministry, round trip furlough ticket, and funds for ministry aid. Right now I only have funds for rent or living up to the end of April. I am hoping to raise as much of this upfront as possible as it makes it easier to budget monthly when I know what my base amount is. Please ask God how you might help to support the cause. Your supporting my mission helps hundreds of orphans find new life in Christ, helps me to disciple Christians, and plants a perpetual seed for the peace and welfare of Rwanda.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PLEASE ADVOCATE</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">& FUNDRAISE</span><br />Please be my advocate of prayer and fundraising. I need your help. Gather friends to sponsor bike rides, run/walks, picnics, bake sales, or concerts for the cause and all the ministry God has brought to me in Rwanda. There are children who need your help. There’s a nation that needs hope. Help me to stay so I can develop a better education system for them and a future hope in Christ.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">THANK YOU</span><br />I love you all so much. Your support of my mission and ministry means so much to me and to Jesus. God bless you all. Thanks for all the prayers and emails of Happy Birthday. I am blessed because God is always with me. Please keep in touch and email me as often as you’d like or keep in touch on facebook. Just hearing from you encourages me for the good fight. I haven’t been able to take photos as much of what I have been doing has been confidential, but I will try to get some photos of the school next time. Meanwhile, you can see photos of the school, kids and the ministry founder at www.esthersaid.org. God bless you so much!!!!!<br /><br />Love in Christ Jesus, Linda<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">PLEASE SUBSCRIBE: If you have not already done so, please subscribe to “Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter” by entering your email address in the subscription field to the right. FeedBurner will send you a CONFIRMATION EMAIL that you must REPLY TO CONFIRM in order to activate your subscription. Please, pass the subscription and blog site on to others to share the testimony and raise support for the mission. God bless you!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">CURRENT PROJECTS & PRAYER REQUESTS</span><br />* Please pray for serving the church in Rwanda<br />* Please pray for serving the orphans in Rwanda through Esther’s Aid for Needy and Abandoned Children<br />* Please pray for hiring of local teachers and teachers from abroad<br />* Please pray for clarity and favor in the development of Urukundo for the Children to serve children worldwide<br />* Please pray for the rehab house project to progress<br />* Please pray for my keyboard to get fixed so I can learn how to play more and write more songs for Jesus<br />* Please pray for continued healing of my heart<br />* Please pray for old and new relationships. Discernment and protection.<br />* Please pray for fundraising to support my living here for another year.<br />* Please pray for my involvement with the Palau Festival<br />* Please continue to pray for time to study Kinyarwanda and ability to speak and comprehend<br />* Please pray for my internet connection & patience<br /><span style="font-size:85%;"></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-30046003099746701362008-12-23T22:00:00.000-08:002009-11-01T01:21:17.272-08:00Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Vol. 9<span style="font-weight: bold;">December 23, 2008, KIGALI, RWANDA</span> – Dear Friends & Family, I want to take this time of remembrance of our Lord's birth to thank God for you and your support, whether they were through prayers, funds, emails, supplies, or whatever.<br /><br />My mission for God in Rwanda has been quite an adventure mixed with hopes, joys, struggles, blessed miracles, and disappointments, but God has been with me all the way. I bear all for no other reason than to be obedient to my Lord and to please Him. You are my people in Christ and your prayers have touched me as God listens and brings me through trials. This Sold Out Single has gone through many seasons and learned so much. Being a lone missionary in a unfamiliar culture is something this child of God never imagined for herself. Some believe it wise, others don’t, but I serve a great God. Everyone has their own expectations, but only God knows for what purpose He sent me to Rwanda. In my time here in Rwanda, I have loved people who don't reciprocate to the point of heartache. And I have been blessed to experience those who love and hunger for God. I have been so blessed with friends in Rwanda that have touched and changed my life. And, finally, I have prayed for those whom I have not even met. I have seen suffering and experienced sufferings of my own in the name of Christ Jesus. All in all I have obeyed my God.<br /><br />As the year takes a turn, I am prayerfully assessing my next steps and seeking God’s will. I won't lie and tell you that it is easy or ready to go. This has been the toughest faith journey of my life and I thank God that he has brought me through much in my life. And in all this He has protected me and I remain pure in my heart for Christ. All I am and do is for Him and to glorify Him.<br /><br />As you may know, I just returned from a furlough in November to return home to Houston, Texas to establish the beginnings of an organization with a <span style="font-style: italic;">vision to change the lives of children that change the world</span>. I also went home to raise more funds for the new year of missions in Rwanda. I still await for God’s blessings upon this. Unfortunately, <span style="font-weight: bold;">my living support goal is below 50% and I do not have funds to remain in Rwanda beyond March, although there are so many open doors of need to serve Him in Rwanda. So, I will be prayerfully re-assessing to see if I can actually remain in good faith and safety in Rwanda to serve. I have faith in my Provider that He shall provide according to His will. </span>However, I seek to be a good stewart of the sacrifices made by existing supporters and any commitments that I make to the people of Rwanda. I also have to assess my strength as trials have taken its toll on me. Please be in prayer for me as I prayerfully seek God for his plans. My first priority is always to obey my Lord whether He calls me out or in to a mission field. Whatever happens, <span style="font-weight: bold;">Urukundo for the Children</span> belongs to God and it will continue to serve God in His timing and way wherever He directs it. As for me, I have given my entire life, every safety and comfort, to God and I will continue to do so all the days of my life and into eternity. Praise God that He entrusts me, even in all my unworthiness, to serve Him.<br /><br />Praise God! I thought I was going to spend this Christmas alone (long story), but I have some new friends that are such a tremendous blessing, especially during this lonesome holiday season. I was rescued by my friends at <span style="font-weight: bold;">EA</span>, a wonderful organization that is making a tremendous differnce in the lives of young people in Rwanda. We spent Christmas Eve feeding and entertaining impoverished school children and showing the Nativity Story to their Worship Center. It was a blessing from God to have the support of new friends in Rwanda. (Sorry, no photos. Didn't have my camera).<br /><br />Nevertheless, <span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">I thank God for you and pray for a very Merry Christmas and a Blessed New Year. </span>Pray for the generation of children that God has appointed to bring in the year of Christ Jesus. This was the vision of hope in Christ that He truly entrusted to me. Pray for those who suffer in silence daily. They need our prayers first and foremost. Please pray for my assessment and decisions, that I may always hear His call and follow. God bless you and your family abundantly in the new year.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus. Phil 3:13-14</span><br /><br /> Love in Christ Jesus, Linda<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">PLEASE SUBSCRIBE: If you have not already done so, please subscribe to “Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter” by entering your email address in the subscription field to the right. FeedBurner will send you a CONFIRMATION EMAIL that you must REPLY TO CONFIRM in order to activate your subscription. Please, pass the subscription and blog site on to others to share the testimony and raise support for the mission. God bless you!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">FUNDS NEEDED<br />To sustain just my living Jan 2009-2010, $24,000 per year, currently at 10% of goal<br /><br />CURRENT PROJECTS<br /></span><ul><li><span style="font-size:85%;">Staff Development (technology & child development) at World Relief through end of May</span></li><li><span style="font-size:85%;">Serving in partnership with other organizations (TBD) to train educators of children - Jan 2009-2010</span></li><li><span style="font-size:85%;">Possible position assisting with local coordination of Andrew Palau Festival with Hope Rwanda</span></li><li><span style="font-size:85%;">Developing Urukundo for the Children ministries in Rwanda<br /></span></li></ul><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-44673630015300772892008-11-04T03:25:00.000-08:002008-11-12T08:27:13.570-08:00Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Vol. 8<span style="font-weight: bold;">November 4, 2008, KIGALI, RWANDA</span> – Dear Friends & Family, God bless you all for your support of this mission for God. Praise God for His watch and His provision. This is a quick newsletter to update you on God’s mission in Rwanda. A lot has transpired since my last newsletter. I have battled many odds and prayed over the steps.<br /><br />I am leaving in a few hours to return to the USA, Houston for a visit. It’s been 1-1/2 years since I have been home. My trip is not only to visit family and friends, but mostly to register a nonprofit organization that will allow me to continue to serve children, starting here in Rwanda, where God has called me to serve at this time. I am spending my last dime in faith to go home and to register. I also will be fundraising for the year, for more in-depth ministry, and for the startup of my ministry.<br /><br />The organization is <span style="font-weight: bold;">Urukundo for the Children</span>. Urukundo means “love” in the native language of Rwanda. Our vision is that through love we bring hope to vulnerable children who suffer in silence. The vulnerable children we are currently targeting at the moment are homeless street children, school children, children of disabilities, and orphans.<br /><br />My time with World Relief is coming to a completion as of May 31st, but I have decided to remain in Rwanda as long as it takes to finish what God has called me to. However, I need to raise funds in order to remain living here and to conduct ministry that focuses on the who have fallen through the cracks of larger organizations.<br /><br />I will be speaking at various events in Houston. Please, come see me to hear about what God has been bringing me through in Rwanda and what God is creating. So far, I will be speaking at:<br /><br />• Sunday, Nov. 16th at 9:30am, Houston’s First Baptist Church at Toolz Bible Study class (formerly The Shed)<br />• Friday, Nov. 14th at Noon Inspire Women’s Luncheon<br />• Saturday, Nov. 15th at 5:30pm at Beth Richard’s house at 4020 Bluebonnet (off Stella Link at Bellaire), Unit G, 77024<br /><br />I will email more specifics as they are confirmed. My phone number is 713-385-3349 or email me if you have any questions. If you have a ministry group or church that you would like me to speak at or would like to just meet me to discuss involvement or support, please email me at LHSATORI@YAHOO.COM. Please pray for the registration and for the fundraising to do more.<br /><br />PRAYER REQUESTS<br />Please pray for my long flight home and for more opportunities to share God’s work in E. Central Africa.<br /><br />Please pray for all the provisions for registering Urukundo for the Children. Please help me to spread the news and the cause of Urukundo for the Children. We need funds and support to do more.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">I have a special request to anyone who may be able to help, I am in great need a car from Nov. 7-23 to get around for meetings so if anyone has a spare vehicle, rental discount ability, or can just provide rides, please email me. It would be such a blessing.</span><br /><br />Praise God for His love and mercy to us all. Please pray for the vision of Urukundo for the Children to reach many children in need. God bless you all, my friends!<br /><br />Love in Christ Jesus,<br />Linda<br /><br /><span style="font-size:78%;">PLEASE SUBSCRIBE: If you have not already done so, please subscribe to “Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter” by entering your email address in the subscription field to the right. FeedBurner will send you a CONFIRMATION EMAIL that you must REPLY TO CONFIRM in order to activate your subscription. Please, pass the subscription and blog site on to others to share the testimony and raise support for the mission. God bless you!<br /></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-5632820228211682342008-08-23T03:28:00.000-07:002008-10-07T10:23:10.895-07:00Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Vol. 7<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-olmRmpYOC2psngxCAnnCVONxuisULN7Npw9oEZDoHHBWUYOoes7c5S2skB5mG0Gx0WzgnltlHKRX_-S4bEBKO85pjLjdnH52UeoBpQ3PgT36nmh8f9K2PwkcTgAVZrk3Pt_nXIJU5xU/s1600-h/image001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 162px; height: 122px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-olmRmpYOC2psngxCAnnCVONxuisULN7Npw9oEZDoHHBWUYOoes7c5S2skB5mG0Gx0WzgnltlHKRX_-S4bEBKO85pjLjdnH52UeoBpQ3PgT36nmh8f9K2PwkcTgAVZrk3Pt_nXIJU5xU/s320/image001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237662914809924866" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">August 23, 2008 KIGALI, RWANDA – </span><span style="font-style: italic;">Oh, my goodness! Please forgive me again for this late new</span><span style="font-style: italic;">sletter that is supposed to go out monthly. God just has me hopping around with activities and ti</span><span style="font-style: italic;">me runs away from me. I keep adding to this newsletter without getting a chance to send it out. So, better late than never…Thank you for your patience. </span><br /><br />Imana ni nziza! (God is so good!) Much has happened since my last blog. God has shined His light upon me and shown me favor. I finished off a year at Kigali International Community School, started a guitar class, traveled back to Uganda for fruitful ministry, taught English and Computer classes at World Relief, moved to a new house, and am now starting a Bible school. My time here is like the thousand hills of Rwanda. There are peaks and valleys, but I press on for the prize of Christ.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPEZ3ywugU4nAV3ivQTG_39Ih98yxF2xruQ2egTCFXMA7PwSGNYjiy1n_clZ38-RtAfPj2BoNaaQ1jpZqGsB9SZinVPzHWa7E_5_a34XERd7pYIXUCaUbHsy2KUAFOuNCkSQnNSCOh_uk/s1600-h/image003.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 179px; height: 254px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPEZ3ywugU4nAV3ivQTG_39Ih98yxF2xruQ2egTCFXMA7PwSGNYjiy1n_clZ38-RtAfPj2BoNaaQ1jpZqGsB9SZinVPzHWa7E_5_a34XERd7pYIXUCaUbHsy2KUAFOuNCkSQnNSCOh_uk/s320/image003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237664842678340594" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">KICS, Kigali – </span>My time at KICS has been sweet. I taught both primary and secondary level classes, weathering through the challenges, crossing many cultural gaps and startup pains. As I read the journals of my Grade 4 and 5 students, I was amazed at their prayers and reflections on our daily devotionals. They are so deeply yearning a relationship with God and Christ. I was touched by their deep thoughts and attention to the lessons. And I did not water down my teachings. The beautiful evidence of their growth was amazing.<br /><br />Our final week of the school year was filled with special activities. My Grade 4 and 5 merged with Miss Lauren’s Grade 2-3 for a field trip to Peace International School, a local school for impoverished Rwandaise and Congolese refugees. The purpose was for the KICS students to exchange cultural experiences and have a chance to serve God. The tables were turned and our students played the role of teacher to the primary level students at Peace International, teaching English, Arts & Crafts, and Music. It was quite a challenge physically, mentally, and culturally, but we endured, being blessed and blessing others.<br /><br />Afterwards when our students reflected on their most memorable learning experience of the year, most of them responded that they learned first that God said despite their youth they had something important to contribute to others (1 Timothy 4:12). Secondly, they said the experience at Peace International School taught them that its difficult to be a teacher and that they should cherish and listen to their teachers because it was most difficult when students would not listen. They were also appreciative of being in a school where teachers listened and cared so much. I was so proud that they had learned such huge lessons on their own and grown closer to God for it.<br /><br />At our end-of-the-year program my students joined Grade 2 and 3 to present three songs devoted to Christ with sign language movements. This was my final year at KICS as I will go on to teach at World Relief and minister in the community, but I will miss the kids. Nevertheless, I will now be more available to work on World Relief projects and other ministry opportunities that directly benefit the Rwandaise community and the Great Lakes Region of Africa.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTDTSPi_0yhKnKD9Upxx0j3ZXfV7usMgRIyYl6oQNf6qPnmlfBXJQf9lc6OUt9pxZLVBCJ1pcfVDBZXAZ6CFc0W7NP5lCc2h34UbH2JQw1Tnj9QJRhdCrO4ppmPOFM-B_yRRPuvACbjc/s1600-h/image005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 185px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOTDTSPi_0yhKnKD9Upxx0j3ZXfV7usMgRIyYl6oQNf6qPnmlfBXJQf9lc6OUt9pxZLVBCJ1pcfVDBZXAZ6CFc0W7NP5lCc2h34UbH2JQw1Tnj9QJRhdCrO4ppmPOFM-B_yRRPuvACbjc/s320/image005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237665905179075186" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">GUITAR CLASSES, Kigali –</span> I was also privileged this year to start a guitar class with my friend Francis, enrolling 5 of my students from KICS. We helped some purchase their first guitars and completed 10 weeks of Beginning I level classes, ending in a recital of “God is so Good” in English, Kinyarwanda, French, and Spanish. I have hopes of continuing and expanding these classes. There are not many places here to learn music.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCCugGdaUSTts_96mipzESO40Hn1qXYyBIxT8ZFPiE1mEZroq5uW7XsaNgOGrPkq1prx0MMmSiPj6JXV1wuj-zfeA2-YvoRg9Z6zrQB2jjH1SE2sK_UI45_BtwtzvzRYwRUQsKx015W70/s1600-h/image007.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 197px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCCugGdaUSTts_96mipzESO40Hn1qXYyBIxT8ZFPiE1mEZroq5uW7XsaNgOGrPkq1prx0MMmSiPj6JXV1wuj-zfeA2-YvoRg9Z6zrQB2jjH1SE2sK_UI45_BtwtzvzRYwRUQsKx015W70/s320/image007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237666521594132834" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">UGANDA, Kampala – </span>Just as school ended I hopped onto a bus with my ministry partner Francis and set out to re-visit our Ugandan pastor and to minister in Uganda. We started off on a 10-hour ride to the slums of Kampala where we ministered at <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Pastor Bizimungu </span>and <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Pastor Shyaka’s Kisugu Christian Fellowship.</span> This time I requested small groups. The first night I met with the church leaders’ group and taught about servant leadership. The next day I met with the women’s group and discussed biblical love. The ladies were blooming with good questions. One lady asked me what kind of love does Satan have. I had to break the news that Satan does not love in any way.<br /><br />The third evening I taught the men about love languages and relationships. They sat on the edge of their chairs as I shared with them the secrets to their spouses’ hearts. Everyone was eager to go home and discover their spouse’s love language. Again, God knew just what they needed. Even the pastor was ready to go check out his wife.<br /><br />We were also privileged to visit and minister at a <span style="font-weight: bold;">men’s prison</span>. God led me to share my testimony of salvation and change in my life to serve God. The prison was definitely not like those of the USA. The men were lacking in shoes, food, and privileges. However, we brought them a supply of soaps. This was a working low-level prison farm. The men worked the maize (corn) fields.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNsdszyTnABWDnP6xO0d3GaJBI_loCQstsafzY232XLyPIVzi2F_6j0QNlAR2K4vCKtZstpPJ37CgTjEsPvqYgsnbVct8je29C0_QIVCX0nCuYbEsnvFw56XYkvi45nyxofn2vTFfwHvM/s1600-h/image009.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 183px; height: 164px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNsdszyTnABWDnP6xO0d3GaJBI_loCQstsafzY232XLyPIVzi2F_6j0QNlAR2K4vCKtZstpPJ37CgTjEsPvqYgsnbVct8je29C0_QIVCX0nCuYbEsnvFw56XYkvi45nyxofn2vTFfwHvM/s320/image009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237667111707327298" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">UGANDA, Kihihi </span>– The next day Pastor Bizimungu, Francis, and I got on another 10-hour bus to a small remote village southwest of Kampala, near the Congolese border, called Kihihi. It’s so remote that I am the first so-called muzungu (white person) ever to visit Kihihi and it showed. Everyone was starry eyed as I got off the bus. We got there and checked into the most modern hotel we could find. Thank God there was one in the town area with modern self-contained amenities. I’m afraid the village latrines are rather primitive. I still had to use the cornfields as they were safer from the ravaging chickens that surrounded the hut-like outhouses in this village. I learned very quickly on this trip to clear the bush, stoop down, and hide under my skirt.<br /><br />Pastor Bizimungu helped to build three churches in this area of Kihihi, Rusharoza, and Chabahanga. Since we were tight on time, we visited Kihihi and Rusharoza, but the leaders of Chabahanga were present at Rusharoza. The first evening I spoke with the leaders of Kihihi church in the pitch dark of the evening and then shared a meal with them. What a humbling experience! This must have been what Jesus and the disciples did many times in the olden days, preaching by a lantern. In the morning we continued on to Rusharoza whcre the leaders of all three churches convened to hear us speak.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSm9aAOtRQeHLzLfxh5XOpHDaZXsVUKzbSPCWGDi9nA9g3Lahn8akpeLL1Zox_oPjkBLq1fb5xqm-3b4_fFV8-DuE36_MqZaDfBqnyGZDvKXuJL9oFQ-qPYXqSQGNL0JUmyY9h-_IsdTg/s1600-h/image011.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 191px; height: 249px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSm9aAOtRQeHLzLfxh5XOpHDaZXsVUKzbSPCWGDi9nA9g3Lahn8akpeLL1Zox_oPjkBLq1fb5xqm-3b4_fFV8-DuE36_MqZaDfBqnyGZDvKXuJL9oFQ-qPYXqSQGNL0JUmyY9h-_IsdTg/s320/image011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5237670901965608946" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rusharoza </span>has a female pastor with a miraculous testimony. She wondered into the church one day with a dead son. She prayed and vowed to God that if He would bring her son back to life she would serve him tremendously all her life. God brought her son back to life and she now pastors the church. Her son, who is now about 6 years old, is alive and running around, but he still does not speak much. The pastor is a precious and meek woman, as most women in the Ugandan culture are required to be. I noticed that none of the women could look the men in the eye when they spoke. And in Uganda it is a customary act of respect and submission that a woman must get down on her knees and below a man to greet him. The men don’t really like it, but no one has dared to change the custom. I felt an oppressed spirit in the women that God called me to address in my teaching to the church.<br /><br />First I spoke with all the leaders. I shared my testimony and background and my experience with leadership in the secular and Christian world. I taught them about being a visionary leader with a mission or purpose for God. We discussed the difference between dream visions, false prophesy, and a vision from God. We talked about authority in your gifting and the importance of each role in leadership. It was a great discussion.<br /><br />Afterwards, we had lunch and then I taught the church. I talked about <span style="font-style: italic;">Future Hope: Life in the Spirit (Romans).</span> It was a miraculous experience. God impressed the plight of the submissive and oppressed women in my heart as I was teaching. I told them to be confident and proud that Jesus is in them. They must look up as they speak to all people to show the light of Jesus. As I spoke this, I saw their heads immediately rise and eyes glowing in the church.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF RWANDA, Butare </span>– When we returned to Kigali, it was time to drive to visit Butare where Francis attends the National University of Rwanda, the only university in Rwanda. I wanted to see what a real university campus was like in Rwanda. I was actually surprised at the size of the university. The university is spread out across this small college-town. There are so many departments and buildings. And the most impressive is their forestry department. They actually have a forest where they have planted all kinds of species of trees and plants from which to study. It’s like a huge forest park of which all the students get to take advantage. Many go there to jog or pray or other things. This college town however is only a fraction of Austin, but its more than I expected.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">WORLD RELIEF, Kigali –</span> When I returned to Kigali finally I was notified that I had to find a new house. At first I was worried, but I prayed and prayed and God found me a great house near the World Relief office in Kacyiru, behind the American embassy. This one is closer to town so it may save me some gas money. All in all, God always turns my disasters into blessings. He closes one door to open a better door. I developed a plan to teach 3 levels of English classes and 3 levels of Computer classes. There were actually 2 more classes, but we ended up combining them. It’s been both a pleasure and a challenge getting adapted to teaching adults English at varying levels. It’s not at all the same as teaching kids. I look forward to further developing curriculum to enhance the skills of the World Relief staff. Praise the Lord for his opportunities.<br /><br />During my life in Rwanda, I hit a few small challenges daily and a few large ones periodically, but God pulls me through each mountain and valley. God has me covered and under control in all the changes. His plans are mysterious, but perfect. So, my time has been filled with life’s seasonal changes and just moving on to where God wants me. I am still very focused on His vision. I have weathered through false accusations, rejection, and viscous attacks of the enemy. Meanwhile, He works to teach me, grow me, and connect me to the people and places that work into His perfect plan. Each day I miss my homeland, my family, my friends, my church more and more, but each day I press on for Jesus. With many distractions that come my way, I ask God daily to refocus me and show me what I am here for and each time he tells me that its about the kids.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">GOD LISTENS–</span> Last Sunday, I was in turmoil, feeling like many things were overshadowing me and things were going in a different direction. The church and everyone I knew were partaking in ceremonial activities that disturbed and confused me. I felt that my life had been stripped bear and placed on the chopping block. I was missing home so very much and just feeling lost. I ran outside of the church to pray around the corner. I wept and pleaded with God to affirm my path, to tell me why I am here. If they worship these other people and things that come for a visit, and I can’t seem to get their attention for anything while living here, then why was I sent here to endure trials and be away from my family. As I was weeping and pleading with God, He sent me a sweet little girl who came along. First, she came as I was crying and praying, reached out her hand, and gave me a piece of candy. She, then, walked a few feet away and watched me continue to weep and plead with God. After a few minutes she came back to me and said in her sweet broken English, “Don’t cry…” I took her hand and hugged her. She walked away again and continued to watch me from a distance. I continued to weep and ask God, “Why me and what for?” She returned the third time and took my hand. I prayed with her and asked her what her name was. She told me it was Grace. I knew then that God had sent her as my answer. I was sent here not to be glorified as some great white preacher to be raised on a pedestal or someone with money or power, but in all humility to be entrusted with the children, the future of Christ’s Kingdom. Many will try to raise their flags to take power and credit, but I am to push for the flag of Christ – the Lord as our banner. No one will applaud me or raise me up high for the task, but the reward will be in the hearts and souls of the new generation. It’s not going to be glamorous. I may not be thanked, noticed, rolled out red carpet, or given awards or accolades. I will be neglected and persecuted by disbelief, but I will be pleasing to Jesus and the hearts of children. They will know who I am when they see what God provides. And God will bring me through every step of the way. So, I continue to press on for God’s will and for the children, to magnify God and de-magnify myself. The pain is just a shadow over the great joy that awaits me. My treasures are in Heaven. This mission is all about the Grace of God to save nations on earth.<br /><br />Friends and Family, I pray that my journey blesses you. I want to thank all of you who are supporting me financially and spiritually through all this. Your support is definitely appreciated and being used to bear fruit. I wish I could take each and every one of you on the journey with me, but this blog will have to suffice. I am blessed to be at the forefront of God’s movement in Africa. Please feel free to email me. I welcome encouragement, questions, suggestions, or even visitors. I cherish every word and contact from home. God be with you all. Please pray for Africa.<br /><br />Love in Christ Jesus,<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Linda</span> <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">lhsatori@yahoo.com</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAISES:</span><br />• Praise Him for finding me a new home in good timing and within affordability. The new house is a blessing.<br />• Praise Him for blessing this trip with my spiritual mentor<br />• Praise Him for the connections and relationships He has brought<br />• Praise Him for the health and safety of my family in the U.S.<br />• Praise Him for his wisdom and protection and honing me for the mission<br />• Praise Him for smooth transitions into my 2nd year and a half in Rwanda.<br />• Praise Him for his daily love<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAYER REQUESTS: Please help me pray for the following…</span><br />• God’s provision in securing more funds for serving in Rwanda and starting up the vision project (leadership school for orphans).<br />• God’s provision in releasing my tongue and mind for learning conversational Kinyarwanda,<br />• Please pray for funds and opportunity to visit US to register a nonprofit ministry<br />• Please pray for God’s Direction – for God to continue to show me where, what, and how to accomplish His will, His vision. God’s favor in my spiritual and leadership growth and strength to persevere<br />• Please pray for continued Protection in everything I do and everywhere I go, for my health, my new home, and for these blogs that I share.<br />• God’s wisdom and favor at World Relief<br />• God’s favor and direction with my local church<br />• God’s wisdom in my decision about seminary (DTS). Whether I am to withdraw or continue, and if I am to continue, how it may happen while I am still in Rwanda<br />• God’s protection and favor in relationships that are developing here in Rwanda<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">PLEASE SUBSCRIBE: </span> If you have not already done so, please enter your email address in the subscription field to the right to continue receiving THE BRIDGE TO RWANDA BLOG NEWSLETTER. FeedBurner will send you a CONFIRMATION EMAIL that you must REPLY TO CONFIRM in order to activate your subscription. Also, pass the subscription and blog site on to others to share the testimony and raise support. God bless you!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-2737715502245813732008-04-27T02:48:00.000-07:002008-12-10T00:59:09.499-08:00Mission Support 2008April 27, 2008<span style="font-weight: bold;"> • Dear Beloved Friends and Family,</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj6eHpSzIDaeiyfwjFmx5PogKrJ5gaXZnY7ytvHuOda-h6ufKVWCXz75vsAm44__w2PoJyn_PxK6RvK_pZ778KiwadTR6n8vTYgrZ47yKV_bbxr7Pc1S_M2TTEjRaEtDZMHI4-4iTTvT4/s1600-h/image007.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 169px; height: 132px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjj6eHpSzIDaeiyfwjFmx5PogKrJ5gaXZnY7ytvHuOda-h6ufKVWCXz75vsAm44__w2PoJyn_PxK6RvK_pZ778KiwadTR6n8vTYgrZ47yKV_bbxr7Pc1S_M2TTEjRaEtDZMHI4-4iTTvT4/s320/image007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5193867858990834450" border="0" /></a>Muraho (<span style="font-style: italic;">hello</span>) from Rwanda. I am writing this letter as an urgent appeal for support funds. I confess that I have allowed myself to get so busy with work and ministry activities that I have neglected to consistently fundraise from afar. So, here goes.<br /><br />In the past few months, I have incurred some large one-time expenses due to the blessing of acquiring a vehicle and a house that have drained much of my support funds. The car became a necessity for safety and reliability in and around the city, but also allows me to travel out to villages for ministry. The house allows me privacy to conduct ministry activities, build relationships, and room visiting ministers. These are truly an answer to prayer, but setup and fix-up costs have drained much of my funds (new tires, battery, clean engine, car insurance and registration, furniture and appliances, etc.). My monthly living expenses are now streamlined and I am preparing for my second year in Rwanda.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKmTAG8bhI489yF6uYpaCXow6baYEIKd6c75jZruPe7O66lNfoQPhO4JQU1VoLjD8RL06NRNGTAJx_Bo2Z7BBjiXTfnNsh2cviWfFFPhULePXwt9TnPfvvBTwE3Kh_Dr9mV5IvVmpuJE/s1600-h/image003.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 194px; height: 145px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwKmTAG8bhI489yF6uYpaCXow6baYEIKd6c75jZruPe7O66lNfoQPhO4JQU1VoLjD8RL06NRNGTAJx_Bo2Z7BBjiXTfnNsh2cviWfFFPhULePXwt9TnPfvvBTwE3Kh_Dr9mV5IvVmpuJE/s320/image003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5193863095872103154" border="0" /></a>My goal is to raise the <span style="font-weight: bold;">budgeted amount of $24,000 </span>to sustain my living and serving in Rwanda for another year so that I can focus on the ministry without having to worry about the fundraising. Anything over the budgeted living expenses will allow me to further the efforts of building the leadership school and child advocacy organization that God has called me to build. Also, as my school summer break approaches, God has called me to venture out into deep Rwanda and surrounding areas to build more relationships and begin implementing His vision plan. This will all add some unbudgeted expenses for travel and supplies to my needs. God has brought some wonderful trusted helpers and guides who will direct and guide me in my travels. Nevertheless, note that petroleum in Rwanda is double the cost that of the USA, but I must reach out in order to progress God’s ministry. My mission is to build something of perpetual peace for God. I trust God “will supply all my needs.” Please pray with me for obedience and guidance to do His will.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfQD73OE3RJiFAOhg4MZ6Q-WWUZ6lEFBn8xy6N7ayQs0rvYF7hqsW1VH2pIz5mmvkDb-7EEScch9X6C5S96p1f4ODgCqro8Fd80bHod3WL3tKOKgB56R1J9KdbK9SaLIEw3YhcvjDYssg/s1600-h/image005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 192px; height: 144px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfQD73OE3RJiFAOhg4MZ6Q-WWUZ6lEFBn8xy6N7ayQs0rvYF7hqsW1VH2pIz5mmvkDb-7EEScch9X6C5S96p1f4ODgCqro8Fd80bHod3WL3tKOKgB56R1J9KdbK9SaLIEw3YhcvjDYssg/s320/image005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5193865067262092034" border="0" /></a>Beloved Friends, it is my desire to share with you the blessings of partaking in this outreach endeavor. I appeal to you not only to ask you for your <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">continued or increased support</span>, but also <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">for you to be my advocate</span>. Please speak on my behalf about God’s mission in Rwanda to your friends, churches, and ministries. Use my blog. Hold collective fundraisers or ask for a special offering in church to collect funds for the mission. Every penny allows me to remain obedient to God and be His servant. I know that God will honor your efforts and place a burden into the hearts of those He calls to contribute. Refer them to my blog to contribute individually if they desire. It’s set up for a one-time or monthly giving. You can also sign people up to receive my newsletter. Help spread the news of God’s work to bless more people. The more I raise, the more I can do. Currently, the funds must still be counted as supporting an individual missionary, but eventually I plan to set up an official ministry or NGO to receive funds to build and operate the organization and school. But this can only happen if I stay in Rwanda and continue to seek out God’s will. As per my original agreement, I am also continuing a second year as a teacher at Kigali International Community School (KICS) to bless missionary children, local Rwandans, and children of other nationalities.<br /><br />My focus is foremost to follow God where He leads me, to plant a strong seed on fertile ground that will sustain peace in this country, and to establish a model that will inspire seeds in other war-torn areas of the world. For <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">“God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong.” (1 Cor. 1:27)</span><br /><br />Here are some of what my supporters have enabled me to do (and will continue to do) beyond my own basic cost of living:<br /><ul><li>Purchased clothes and treats for over <span style="font-weight: bold;">140 orphans in Nyabugogo </span>district of Rwanda for Christmas.</li><li>Purchased a <span style="font-weight: bold;">Projector</span> and accessories that serves many purposes at KICS and Victory Mission Church, and elsewhere including bringing the Gospel to the orphans of Nyabugogo at Christmas.</li><li>To serve and teach in <span style="font-weight: bold;">local Rwandan church</span> - Victory Mission Church.</li><li>Purchased many <span style="font-weight: bold;">DVDs to use as teaching aids </span>at KICS and for Gospel ministry.</li><li>Purchased a few <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bibles </span>for some godly servants God is raising up.</li><li>Purchased, repaired, and maintaining (buying petroleum) of a double cab <span style="font-weight: bold;">pickup truck</span> that allows me to travel around Kigali and to remote villages.</li><li>Purchased teaching supplies for my KICS classroom.</li><li>Purchase of an <span style="font-weight: bold;">internet connection </span>allowing me to communicate and seek curriculum for KICS and other classes.</li><li>Allowed me to help in a <span style="font-weight: bold;">music ministry</span> with Enric Sifa (former street boy).</li><li>Allowed me to minister to <span style="font-weight: bold;">19 orphans in Ndera </span>district of Rwanda (transporting them to music ministry events, teaching the Bible, teaching English, and leading them in professions of Salvation)</li><li>Purchased <span style="font-weight: bold;">language lessons</span> so I can learn the native language of Kinyarwanda to better communicate with the Rwandans.</li><li>Allowed us to contribute to some <span style="font-weight: bold;">local disaster relief</span> of a local Rwandan family of 5 children. House roof was torn off by storm leaving the family homeless for a few months.</li><li>Allowed me to <span style="font-weight: bold;">furnish and rent a house</span> that provides space for living and ministry.</li><li>Allowed me to <span style="font-weight: bold;">travel</span> to Kampala, Uganda to explore needs and build a relationship with <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kisugu Christian Fellowship </span>and <span style="font-weight: bold;">Hope Prison Ministry</span>. While there, we learned a lot and were given the privilege to minister to their congregation for a week.</li><li>And there are <span style="font-weight: bold;">many more ministry involvements developing…</span></li></ul>It seems like a lot, but I am very focused. Again, my focus is to <span style="font-weight: bold;">FOLLOW WHERE GOD LEADS ME. </span>And as God works through and leads me, He is teaching and developing me to implement His plan for <span style="font-style: italic;">Christ Is Our Hope International</span> child advocacy organization and <span style="font-style: italic;">Christ Is Our Hope School Rwanda</span>, a full scholarship Leadership School for orphans, with a specially tailored biblical leadership program that will shape and equip post-war children into future leaders of peace and progress in Rwanda.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhe0-YTtLyaq4ZQlMits6y1P6azMW6cnm9r-9Ot1D_uuB4NjUboRT8n9JDFYToVRwtCMgWp2O98pyE9ON14NNOkm4EdkKCrVrFg06mht6fEg7YimbqxONoeGGSAbtMS7cefxLR3Rz_GtU/s1600-h/image001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 158px; height: 119px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhe0-YTtLyaq4ZQlMits6y1P6azMW6cnm9r-9Ot1D_uuB4NjUboRT8n9JDFYToVRwtCMgWp2O98pyE9ON14NNOkm4EdkKCrVrFg06mht6fEg7YimbqxONoeGGSAbtMS7cefxLR3Rz_GtU/s320/image001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5193862309893087970" border="0" /></a>This is God’s ministry in which we are called to participate. I am just a servant-leader. I am what Nehemiah was to the wall of Jerusalem, what Moses was to the freedom of the Israelites, what Abraham was to the promise land, and what Paul was to the Gentiles. We are just empty vessels that God pours into and called to serve and carry out His plans.<br /><br />And besides funds, I always need prayer support. The enemy doesn’t like it that we are trying planting seeds on fertile ground here in Rwanda. I feel like Paul in that I am buffeted at every turn, but I also know that <span style="font-style: italic;">“greater is He that is me, then he that is in the world.” </span><br /><br />I asked God why he chose me to come to Rwanda alone, without the backing of large ministries and funding behind me. With all the NGOs that are here and have huge funding and organizational pools, what is it that he wants a small person like me to do? Why would He take me away from my family, my students, my income, and my employment to come here? This is what he told me. “I have chosen to send someone like you who can only depend on Me for everything.” Yes, I am alone, but God is with me. And He must be foremost <span style="font-weight: bold;">Above All that I Do</span>. The Bible tells us not to despise small beginnings.<br /><br />Please continue to support our efforts and ask the Lord if you can do more. If you are new to this mission, please join us on this journey to build something miraculous, to bring the impossible into being in the name of Jesus. The truth of the matter is that I am not sent here to share the Gospel, shake a few hands, and disappear in 2 years. I will be here to the end, or until God no longer wants me to serve here. I press on for the sake of those whom He has called me to serve.<br /><br />For all of you that will send cash donations, please note that my funds are now being managed through <span style="font-weight: bold;">my family until I can get a nonprofit ministry registered to receive funds</span>. This move was necessary because World Relief is not set up to manage funds for a full-time long-term totally immersed missionary. However, <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">I will still be a World Relief Ambassador </span>and a commissioned missionary of Houston’s First Baptist Church.<br /><br />Thank you for your love and support. God has called me to <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">be bold in the midst of unfamiliarity</span>. I am asking you to seek your heart for God and <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">be bold in your faith for Him.</span> I love you and keep you in my prayers.<br /><br />Amahoro ibane namwe. (<span style="font-style: italic;">Peace be with you</span>). Imana ibahe umugisha. (<span style="font-style: italic;">God bless you</span>). Murakose cyane. (<span style="font-style: italic;">Thank you very much</span>)<br /><br />Love in Christ Jesus,<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Linda Huang</span><br /><br />TO DONATE SEND A CHECK TO:<br />Payable: Linda Huang (World Relief Missionary)<br />c/o Shirley McMillan<br />2027 NW Langley Ct<br />Portland, OR 97229<br /><br />TO SIGN UP for my blogs and newsletters, visit: www.BridgeToRwanda.blogspot.com<br />TO WRITE ME, email me at: LHSATORI@YAHOO.COMUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-45644839323725774402008-04-12T05:09:00.001-07:002008-12-10T00:59:10.519-08:00Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Vol. 6<span style="font-weight: bold;"><br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3g1VmAJ1_lMa4YrWPUCBofkUTpAoEbvQ2mvcIAjoxjwq7DNvqAXQEPvxCckldHnkH1nqLfZGFc7_AcUNHsRt0L79tf3puj0ERnBwKnAulJDdTgNS5iOaVWgOiUnggK5NmC6Ys8gNzTXc/s1600-h/image001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 179px; height: 135px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3g1VmAJ1_lMa4YrWPUCBofkUTpAoEbvQ2mvcIAjoxjwq7DNvqAXQEPvxCckldHnkH1nqLfZGFc7_AcUNHsRt0L79tf3puj0ERnBwKnAulJDdTgNS5iOaVWgOiUnggK5NmC6Ys8gNzTXc/s200/image001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5188850869193616466" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">April 12, 2008 KIGALI, RWANDA </span>– God is good! He is forever faithful. I witness this every day in my walk here in Rwanda. He keeps me strong and hears my prayers. Forgive me if there are not as many photos of people in this bog, but we went to visit sensitive and dangerous places where taking photos were not appropriate. [NOTE: To see larger photos, Click on photos enlarged and Backspace to return to blog]<br /><br />As I enter another season of my mission in Rwanda, I asked God to refresh the vision and to stretch my understanding of the needs and solutions here in Africa. I asked God to show me the truth behind what seems. So, I decided to venture out of Kigali, to see more of Rwanda. I was on a week and a half mid-year holiday from KICS. I started out to places I have heard much about and had yet to see – <span style="font-weight: bold;">Gisenyi (west Rwanda) and Goma (the Republic of Congo)</span>. My good friend Francis was my guide and guard. He was an appropriate guide because he grew up in Congo and Gisenyi area as a child and knows much about the locations as well as their past history and current status.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQYy1gSpG0L4Bcot5QeOIrWImWR61FLnsbEFEQ7w4j8n7W0kj3Lq-tYtpSASQEhkvkkhywSN-DMh4Gzik2dAscej5bA8pKx6nslCRokkW5rffd8EfYBsqQhRFBKBUbkfKMkc2KD5m-aQ/s1600-h/image003.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQYy1gSpG0L4Bcot5QeOIrWImWR61FLnsbEFEQ7w4j8n7W0kj3Lq-tYtpSASQEhkvkkhywSN-DMh4Gzik2dAscej5bA8pKx6nslCRokkW5rffd8EfYBsqQhRFBKBUbkfKMkc2KD5m-aQ/s320/image003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189039907884182690" border="0" /></a>We drove about 3 hours out of Kigali, through beautiful rich green land covered with banana trees. We passed through Rhuengeri to Gisenyi. I had heard much about Gisenyi from many muzungus (white people) and Rwandans. Its been described as one of the most beautiful areas of Rwanda. Many muzungus travel to this area to visit the gorillas that Diane Fossey studied, but I did not go see the gorillas because it costs a huge fee to visit them ($500 for foreigners and $250 for residents) and I am on a modest missionary budget. Nevertheless, there was plenty for me to see as God led the way. I purposely did not make any specific plans because I wanted to allow God to lead me where He wanted me to go. I just asked Francis to take me out to see the land and visit the people.<br /><br />Oh, this entire week turned out to be Genocide Memorial week. So the first day everything was closed. The rest of the week places opened, but in the evenings people gathered to watch movies about the genocide. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to stop to see any of them.<br /><br />This border area of Rwanda (Gisenyi and Rhuengeri) faces many physical challenges (volcano eruptions and land erosions) as well as continued frequent attacks by Interhamwe rebels (those responsible for the genocide) who hide along the border and sneak in to kill innocent people. Rhuengeri is heavily guarded 24 hours by military forces because of these attacks. Apparently, these and other areas of Rwanda used to be separated into Hutu and Tutsi villages, but today the government has mixed them up so that there is no distinguishing between the two – all just one Rwandan peoples.<br /><br />We arrived in Gisenyi by early afternoon and after exploring several lodging options, which turned out to be very expensive, we checked into a quaint hotel called the Diane Fossey Lodge. Then we had just enough time to explore awhile before it got dark.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibP5nzchWvSjhQiPktmRPQfk4OO7KkDYOfhAho7uasZBrvRsMljaJT-_rGjDQZPTh-tyQSUGLIs35WNDDsHGOVBDuV0w1NCCfLApQNxiyoPf-iVpXJZ1rbc8c2eEd_HA-6CpQ0_cFgx0k/s1600-h/image005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibP5nzchWvSjhQiPktmRPQfk4OO7KkDYOfhAho7uasZBrvRsMljaJT-_rGjDQZPTh-tyQSUGLIs35WNDDsHGOVBDuV0w1NCCfLApQNxiyoPf-iVpXJZ1rbc8c2eEd_HA-6CpQ0_cFgx0k/s320/image005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189042725382728882" border="0" /></a>We visited the beach and then Francis showed me where he used to live with his brother, before his mom joined him from Congo. He truly lived less than modestly. Gisenyi is a beautiful place that is now growing into a resort-like area because of the beaches along Lake Kivu. But amidst all the wealth are areas of dire poverty. What would look to us like abandoned buildings with squatters is a normal home for them. The streets are unpaved rocky black volcanic rocks. Francis and his older brother literally squatted (claimed stake) on a small part of a building that was left after the genocide. He said after the genocide, many buildings and homes were left abandoned because owners were killed and some fled. So, everyone that came afterwards just staked a claim on the homes (rent-free). Francis and his brother came late so they didn't get any homes, but found a section of a building. They put doors and windows on it and called it home. He grew up selling candy and stuff at the taxi-park (bus park) kinda like a street boy, but Francis refuses to call himself an orphan or street boy because he always had hope and worked for his living. He said he lived in Gisenyi about 3 years. He did a few years primary school, which he showed me, then a year of secondary. Then, he had no school fees for a few years and had to sell candy on the streets for a few years without going to school.<br /><br />In Gisenyi, I just told Francis to take me to see places and to meet people and that God would show me the rest. I told him I didn't want to be a tourist. I wanted to see the real thing. I didn’t want anyone to expect this muzungu or to prepare any kind of special welcome. I told him he could show me hospitals, orphanages, handicapped people, street boys, and stuff. So, we did just that.<br /><br />On our second day in Gisenyi, we visited a hospital. I was a bit nervous because I didn't really know exactly what I was doing there. I had only ever gone where people planned and told me what to do. Here we were just walking into a hospital without any direction. But Francis gave me a bit of space and a moment to pray alone in the car and I just gave it to God.<br /><br />Francis led the way as we toured the hospital. We toured parts of the hospital where they treat lepers (no one allowed to enter) and new moms. We visited the pediatric room and then two other rooms. We prayed together with mothers for their babies - some suffering from meningitis, malaria, etc. The environment was minimally sterile (not really at all). It was mostly beds and doctors and nurses. People bring their own food. Its pretty open, kind of like army barracks. We prayed for one little girl about 7 years old who had HIV and was abandoned to die on the street. A humble man found her and took her to the hospital. She was wasting away. I told the man that he was a blessing and God would bless him for his goodness and mercy upon this child. He was a true Good Samaritan. <br /><br />We prayed for a woman whose stomach burst and she no longer has a working stomach. Her body literally looked like a deflated balloon. She's been in the hospital for a year. We prayed for an infant (1 year or less) who was suffering from malaria and had an oxygen tube in her nose because she couldn't breath on her own. We prayed with several elderly women who were paralyzed from unknown reasons (my guess is undiagnosed diabetes because its common here). One woman was paralyzed and could not hear nor speak for unknown reasons. There was a set of triplet newborns whose mother is mentally ill and keeps getting raped and impregnated. This is her second set of babies. The first was a set of twins. The triplets were being cared for without their mother. All these people I laid hands on and prayed for. Afterwards my spirit was very tired. I had to rest so we went to have lunch.<br /><br />We also visited a Catholic run orphanage. This one was much more hopeful than some of the orphanages I visited in Kigali. The Director said the orphanage dates back to 1954. I was able to ask her many questions about how she gets her kids and how she identifies them as orphans, what she provides them etc. They used to take just babies, but after the genocide they had to take older children. They work with the local government to affirm a child's need and orphan status. Some have parents, but were abandoned because of poverty. She was very helpful. Then, we went to meet the kids. They were very healthy and loved. She gets trained staff from a catholic organization. She encourages them to be like nurturing and loving parents to the children. The children learn social skills and language etc. I was very pleased. They sang songs about the love of God and being rescued. They were happy children. They care for about 400 kids and even have a trades training business where the older children are trained to make furniture to sell. They also have a clinic and hospital with a doctor and full-time nurse to care for the kids. They also have partnerships with other hospitals for more serious needs and socialize with other orphanages. They send the older ones out to school, but have a real nursery for the little ones. I shared a little of my vision and she welcomed me any time and wished me well. We were going to visit an orphanage for street boys, but it moved to another location because of growth.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNLyNlQGbOuVpcoHNqDgmZEre_VLK4CZL8kDVLsV10twbfNzFLGYnhMeRe2J2nDkjD03IYaH22dGmArGSklX5xelrqlEoQqlHiGnAL7Z-yebUsOCqPubqoB-wm89fZ1C_N82QWMM3ZQ5U/s1600-h/image007.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 180px; height: 162px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNLyNlQGbOuVpcoHNqDgmZEre_VLK4CZL8kDVLsV10twbfNzFLGYnhMeRe2J2nDkjD03IYaH22dGmArGSklX5xelrqlEoQqlHiGnAL7Z-yebUsOCqPubqoB-wm89fZ1C_N82QWMM3ZQ5U/s320/image007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189033418188598418" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Francis showed me one of the two very first Catholic churches ever built in Rwanda. This church was also a place where Interhamwe murdered many who sought refuge there during the genocide war. Now it has been rebuilt.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">OK, then there is Goma, Republic of Congo. </span>On our third day we ventured into Congo. This place was scary. I almost got arrested and taken by thieves for taking a photo. So, I didn’t take many photos. Oh, it was horrible. For the first time since I have been here in Africa, I was truly scared for my life. And Francis was so busy trying to get us out of it that he didn't translate much to me and I got even more scared.<br /><br />First, it took us four hours just to get across the border. We tried to go with the car, but it turned out impractical (you have to buy special insurance) so we walked. I believe the car would not have been safe there so God placed obstacles. Everything here in Africa takes multiple paper tracking and multiple fees. They also have separate visa fees for different colored visitors. The border patrol is unfriendly and intimidating to foreigners. They kept taking my passport and disappearing and then making me wait. Everything I touched or did was forbidden and I got screamed at a lot in a foreign language and looked at suspiciously. Thank goodness Francis was around. I realized that there was no way I could ever travel on my own in Africa, unless I did it the expensive luxury resort way.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ1of0YpK8zJoYIcVEzO79AiCrCG5L14WCjEFd1SaH8zz7XOR8WYnhyphenhyphenhFE6Ptiv0_AUljJfONSDCHoxOIGtIepTE2D0iQAOMwpT1dV0EKJkAeBs6T58jRrqT4tSw5p1acJrwH1XLO65BY/s1600-h/image009.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 228px; height: 195px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ1of0YpK8zJoYIcVEzO79AiCrCG5L14WCjEFd1SaH8zz7XOR8WYnhyphenhyphenhFE6Ptiv0_AUljJfONSDCHoxOIGtIepTE2D0iQAOMwpT1dV0EKJkAeBs6T58jRrqT4tSw5p1acJrwH1XLO65BY/s320/image009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189030295747374210" border="0" /></a>Now, Congo is a place plagued by about 5 volcanoes (one which erupted only a few years ago) and rebel wars. There were many soldiers in trucks all around because they were having a rebel convention or meeting. So, the city of Goma looks like a disaster and a ruin. It actually reminded me of Juarez, Mexico. There are a few signs of wealthy builders coming in, but most of it was huge black lava boulders and dirty sewage. There is little sign of organization or modernity. Few paved roads, no traffic lights. And it’s infested with corruption that includes the police. The main language is Swahili and French plus many other indigenous languages. Francis actually grew up in Goma before going to Gisenyi. But when he lived in Goma, he was with his father who was a wealthy coffee producer. It was when his father dies that this little rich boy was thrown into dire poverty.<br /><br />We began by visiting the hospital where Francis' father died. We met with the Director, who spoke French and Swahili, to ask permission to visit the pediatric ward. He was welcoming and commended me for my work and said that the need to care for street boys is tremendous in Congo. He said that he looked forward to seeing how i could help his country. I told him that I would do and go where God leads me and God has told me to start in Rwanda, but more will come out of it. We were escorted by a nurse into first the premie ward where all the premature babies are. They do not have incubators like US. The premie ward is a small room that is just kept very warm. Babies are bundled in multiple blankets and just placed on the beds, but kept in open air. Its sterility is very minimal. Many babies had their own mothers at their sides to care for them. Here, we joined hands with the mothers and prayed. Mind you, each time I prayed in English and Francis translated. We prayed special blessings upon each child and mother and families. The mothers had hope. We prayed over a few other babies in other areas and then we left.<br /><br />OK, now came the trouble. Francis started just showing me the city and landscape and I started taking photos. He took me to the port area, which is a tiny water area with one boat. Then 5 people, including one old lady in police uniform, but led by other non-uniformed men came and started questioning us and screaming. They asked to see my passport and I showed them. Then, the non-uniformed man wanted to write an infraction on my passport. I pled with Francis not to let him write on my passport. They started arguing in Swahili and took my camera. I kept asking Francis what was going on. They said it was forbidden to take photos of the seaport. I told them we didn't know. There were no signs. I told them we could show them the photo and delete it in front of them. They insisted on taking us across the water to the police station. I kept telling them we didn’t know. Francis argued with them. Then, we started walking. I was scared and angry. Who were these guys and what did they want? We walked up a steep hill and I was ready to call World Relief and the U.S. Embassy. Finally, we stopped and Francis finally told me to pay them $5 to let us go (saying that the police would charge us much more), but it took a while for me to get clear with Francis what they wanted. I took out $5 and they said it was too little. They wanted $5 for each person. We didn't even know for sure where they were taking us, but the guy had my camera. I kept telling them they were evil and I was a missionary with no money. Finally, one man told them to take the $5 and let us go. So, we went. I was so furious with this country. I was now scared to take any photos. I was a bit angry at Francis for not translating, but he said he couldn't. They kept him talking and arguing. He said he was afraid for me and my camera. He wasn't sure where they would have taken us either and the police are also corrupt in Congo. I was also a bit upset that he hadn’t warned me enough how corrupt this country was. I guess I got my harsh warning. I was so afraid that I wanted to leave, but didn’t.<br /><br />We got on a moto to ride to the market. As I was riding, I prayed. God reminded me that I was a bit spoiled by the safety and cleanliness of Rwanda. This Congo was actually what I expected Rwanda to be like, dirty and corrupt Africa. It was what most people imagine Africa to be. So, I was brought back down to the reality of whom I was. I have been protected from all this by God. I committed to live in a place like Congo, but God gave me Rwanda, much safer and more developed than Congo. So, now I was able to suck it up and continue to see Congo. I was no longer afraid and angry, just careful. Truly, this place is horrible. There are barely any muzungus around because no one will serve in a corrupt and unwelcoming place. The only muzungus I saw were riding around in UN trucks and one World Vision truck.<br /><br />Francis took me to where his some of his relatives live. Most of them were at work, bu the woman we met was nice. They lived in a very slummy area. Later Francis showed me an even more slummy area. Houses are piece-mealed spare rusty found metal parts nailed together. Children run around barefoot on the ground that was a mixture of black lava mud and rocks with sewage. It was worse than the slum areas of Uganda.<br /><br />Later we walked into the main area of town, which is a far cry from Kigali's town. There are no "gas stations". The gas stations were boys on street corners with large jugs and water bottles filled with petrol. This is their gas station. Besides cars and motos, the transportation included makeshift wooden bicycles which were wooden pieces held together by rags, tape, and pieces of tire treads. There are also old-fashioned wooden pushcarts used to carry supplies, but powered by human efforts, not animals. <br /><br />This city (which is only a small portion of huge Congo) is even more of a paradox than Rwanda because its markets have newer and more modern products than that of Rwanda, but the physical city and the moral culture is far below that of Rwanda. Rwanda has very little corruption because it is strictly forbidden by the government. The Rwandan culture also shuns theft. Strange to hear from a country where people just started killing each other. Hugh?<br /><br />So, as I returned from Congo and Gisenyi I got an alert from the US Embassy not to travel to Goma because of the ongoing rebel conflicts. Wow! Kinda late. And a good friend begged me not to go back because it was unsafe. Wow! I guess God allowed me to be ignorant because He wanted me to see the truth. Nevertheless, He covered me in His protection.<br /><br />So, this was my April adventure in Africa. God continues to teach me so much. He brought me a guide and a protector in my friend Francis. Please continue to pray for our safety and our relationship as we venture out into other areas of Rwanda. Pray for God to lead me where He wants me to be. Continue to pray for this country as the reality that there are still Interhamwe rebels coming into the country secretly to kill and influence people is a harsh awakening that things are still not as safe as it looks. God says that it takes just a little bit of yeast in the dough to spread and ruin the whole bread. These are the same rebels that once influenced the entire country into mass killings – genocide. Pray for Congo as they get very little hope and help due to the ongoing rebel conflicts. There are still children in that country that need rescuing. Pray for them. I thank God that He allowed me to enter this area unknowingly, and protected me.<br /><br />I am afraid that I returned with a fever, the chills, and other symptoms so I am going to the hospital to get checked for malaria. Pray that whatever enters my body shall disappear because it cannot live where Christ resides. [Praise the Lord! My blood test came out negative for Malaria and my fever is gone]<br /><br />Please pray for my blogs as I send them out because the enemy attacks everything as I report on them. Truly! I do not exaggerate. The enemy does not like that I share the mission. But I will not stop him from allowing me to share God’s truth and miracles. God bless you for your support and for not forgetting me. Thank you for reading my newsletters and for all your prayers. I love you and appreciate you all! Imana ibane namwe (God be with you)!<br /><br />Love in Christ Jesus,<br />Linda<br />------------------------------<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAISES: Yesu ashimwe! (Praise the Lord!)</span><br />• God is strengthening me and my relationships<br />• God’s protection in Congo<br />• God continues to grow me and enlighten me spiritually<br />• God continues to protect wherever I go and whatever I do<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAYER REQUESTS: Please help me pray for the following…</span><br />• Please pray for <span style="font-weight: bold;">God’s Protection</span> of my equipment (camera, instruments, appliances) as this is where the enemy likes to poke at me.<br />• Please pray for <span style="font-weight: bold;">God’s Provision </span>– for my Support Fundraising for my 2nd year so that I may continue to serve God here in Rwanda.<br />• Please pray for <span style="font-weight: bold;">God’s wisdom and direction</span> as to where to explore and how, where, and when to set up the child advocacy NGO and leadership school for orphans (Christ Is Our Hope School).<br />• Please pray for f<span style="font-weight: bold;">unds and opportunity to visit US </span>to see my family and to raise funds to start God’s vision for the kids. For 2 round-trip tickets so I may bring a Rwandan friend to testify.<br />• Please pray for the <span style="font-weight: bold;">spreading of God’s Word and maturing of saints</span> – for donations of NIV/NASB Bibles for Rwandans who can read English and thirst for the Word of God.<br />• Please pray for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Language & Communication</span> – for me to learn Kinyarwanda faster. It’s a tough language with many irregularities. And to get more fluent with my French.<br />• Please pray for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Help </span>– for strengthening of Rwandan friendships and confidantes.<br />• Please pray for the <span style="font-weight: bold;">remainder of the school year at KICS.</span><br />• Please pray for <span style="font-weight: bold;">smooth transitions into my 2nd year in Rwanda.</span><br />• Please pray for <span style="font-weight: bold;">God’s Direction </span>– for God to continue to show me where, what, and how to accomplish His will, His vision.<br />• <span style="font-weight: bold;">Please pray for continued Protection in everything I do and everywhere I go, for my health, and for these blogs that I share.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">PLEASE SUBSCRIBE: </span>I need your help to share the blessing. If you have not already done so, please click below and enter your email address in the subscription field to continue receiving THE BRIDGE TO RWANDA BLOG NEWSLETTER. FeedBurner will send you a CONFIRMATION EMAIL that you must REPLY TO CONFIRM in order to activate your subscription. Also, pass the subscription and bog site on to others to share the testimony and raise support. God bless you!</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-4703634126690627912008-04-05T23:10:00.000-07:002008-04-10T02:52:53.162-07:00Journal Blog: Friendship in A Foreign LandAs I immerse myself deeper into the culture of Rwanda I discover great hardships in discerning trust and friendships. These are the same challenges that I would find in my homeland, but with the added difficulty of differences in cultural meanings and language. I have many Rwandan friends whom I have become very close to and we've come to a place in our relationship where I am examining truths. There is alot here in Rwanda that is quite misleading and one can be fooled or blessed without knowing which. So, in my turmoil, I always seek God's Word and prayer for some answers.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">I began by examining friendship in the Bible and this is what I found in order to measure true friendship. JONATHON was a true friend to DAVID:</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">"After David had finished talking with Saul, Jonathan became one in spirit with David, and he </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">loved him as himself. </span><span style="font-style: italic;">From that day Saul kept David with him and did not let him return to his father's house. And Jonathan made a covenant with David because </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">he loved him as himself. </span><span style="font-style: italic;">Jonathan took off the robe he was wearing and gave it to David, along with his tunic, and even his sword, his bow and his belt." (1 Samuel 18)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"And Saul's son Jonathan went to David at Horesh and </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">helped him find strength in God.</span><span style="font-style: italic;">" (1 Samuel 23:16-18)</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"Saul and Jonathan—in life they were loved and gracious...I grieve for you, Jonathan my brother; you were very dear to me. </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Your love for me was wonderful, more wonderful than that of women. </span><span style="font-style: italic;">" (2 Samuel 1:23-27)</span><br /></span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">So, to summarize, </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">a true faithful friend 1) loves you as himself and gives everything to it </span><span style="font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">(Jonathan gave his robe, tunic, sword, and belt - literally the "shirt off his back" and his protection - to David) </span><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">2)helps you find strength in God, 3) is a love that is different and more wonderful than romantic love. </span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">With these I shall guage what I can.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Secondly, I was steered toward a faithful servant-friendship, that of Eleazar (the "faithful stewart") to Abraham. Eleazar was the most trusted servant of Abraham, whom He trusted to send out to find the right bride for his son Isaac. But there is more to this story. When Abram was barren, Eleazar was the first born male in the house of Abram, which in the Jewish law, makes him legal heir to his estate.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" ><span style="font-style: italic;">"And Abram said, ‘Lord God, what wilt thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house is this Eleazar [Lazarus] of Damascus and lo, one born in my house is mine heir.’" Genesis 15:2–3</span></span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">But Abraham sent Eleazar on an assignment which would disinherit him from the fortune and blessings of Abraham. Eleazar did this willingly and unquestioning. He was faithful and did not waver in his efforts. He trusted God and prayed for God to point him to the bride for Isaac. Later on in Luke 16, Jesus tells the parable of the Lazarus and the Rich Man. Lazarus is a transliteration of the Hebrew Eleazar which means "God has helped". Lazarus was the "beggar" who ate scraps from the Rich Man's table, while the Rich Man (Judah) inherits everything. In life, the Rich Man inherited "good things" while Lazarus received "bad things". But in Heaven, Lazarus ends up in the "bosom of Abraham" and is "comforted" while the Rich Man is in "agony".</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">So, from Eleazar I learn that a true faithful friend puts his own blessings aside for the sake of friendship, risks everything for his friend. And in the end, a true friend receives his treasures in Heaven.</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">This is what the Lord has taught me. Friends, I ask for prayers that God would show me how to use this knowledge to make decisions and discern who are my true trusted friends and who are not. I cannot exist in a foreign country without true friends. I need help to interpret the culture. I have to have someone to trust that will care to rescue me when there is danger, that will care about me despite what I can give them. I need some kind of safety. This is tough because my love language of receiving is giving time and actions. My love language of giving is things, time and actions. This is how I love people. So, I struggle and I focus my attention on Jesus, for if I keep my gaze upon Him I will be safe. I don't want my friends and family to be afraid for me, just pray for me. God will make a way for everything. He has shown me miracle upon miracle His great protection over me. Right now, my heart is being tested in strength, and perhaps I am being taught and taken further in my ability to discern.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);"><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);font-size:85%;" >You [God] will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, Because he trusts in You [God]. (Isaiah 26:3 NIV)</span><br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">I welcome any encouragement and prayer. I thank you for your trust and support. God will bring me through this. I love you all sincerely. Be blessed by His Word and cherish true friendships. Please pray for me for I am here to serve Him to the end. God bless you all, truly!</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Love in Christ Jesus,</span><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">Linda</span><br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">P.S. Pray for this blog as its packed with truth as I perceive it and the enemy does not like the truth. I pray protection over this blog in the name of Jesus, that it would only bring blessings.</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-34262091575179293512008-03-18T10:52:00.000-07:002008-12-10T00:59:12.384-08:00Bridge to Rwanda Newsletter, Vol.5<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_KM1zEMOyzWo6Xlx-OVgENKKM8LEQWjkGCe_9MtKWdI0kEPRw52nBEtFqvjatkjK2B_5ZBMUY-eCKIVGqH3Zy2WWvL3EqgpqZ3WRKogVyXCtol4tgVwaWXBppqszzYsR6ishYR0Ekmnk/s1600-h/image001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 175px; height: 132px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_KM1zEMOyzWo6Xlx-OVgENKKM8LEQWjkGCe_9MtKWdI0kEPRw52nBEtFqvjatkjK2B_5ZBMUY-eCKIVGqH3Zy2WWvL3EqgpqZ3WRKogVyXCtol4tgVwaWXBppqszzYsR6ishYR0Ekmnk/s200/image001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179142515187097570" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >March 18, 2008 KIGALI, RWANDA – This is an exten</span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >d</span><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;font-size:100%;" >e</span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" ><span style="font-weight: bold;">d issue</span> - reporting from December 2007 through March 2008. I apologize for the tard</span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >i</span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >ness. You will see that God continues to keep me so busy. I can barely stop to write and</span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" > sort</span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" > thr</span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >ough multitudes of photos. So, in this issue I will attempt to catch you up on </span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >the many activities that God has brought along my path. Again, God bless you all for your patience, for not forgetting me and for all your sup</span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" >port. [Note: Click on photos to enlarge]</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">February 23, 2008 KIGALI, RWANDA – </span>Praise the Lord Jesus Christ for His love and mercy! For me, the theme of the year 2007 was <span style="font-style: italic;">“I can do all things through Christ Jesus who strengthens me.” </span>God’s message of the year to me has been <span style="font-style: italic;">“I am with you.”</span> I got through both a tough year and a blessed year. 2007 will always be the year God sent me off on a new and climactic season of my life to start my mission journey in Rwanda (East Central Africa). I’ve only been here for 7 months, but it’s been quite a journey. I can’t imagine what else God has in store for me, but I know it is good. I thank Him for every battle and every victory for I have grown so much more in love with my Jesus and so much more stronger.<br /><br />First, I could never have imagined the welcome that I have received from Rwandan friends and the adopted family that God had prepared for me. From the moment I stepped off the airplane and saw the warm face of my friend Eddy, the Lord has shown me many more good people who help me transition into life in Rwanda. They have helped to ease the culture shocks, going out of their way to make sure I am not alone, and are a comfort to me when I miss my family and friends. It’s been a tremendous blessing. And I am deeply aware of the special privilege and honor that has been bestowed upon me.<br /><br />Secondly, there have been tremendous hardships to endure. There are many cultures that I have had to acclimate to and not all were easy or welcoming, but God stood by me all the way and has taught me to press on past the pain and towards the blessing. The longer I am here the more intricate the cultural adaptations are. There are ways that all people of all cultures are alike and ways that each culture is unique. There are ways that we are accepting and ways that cultures are exclusive. Then, there are the usual deceits of human flaw. But best of all, “God works all things for the good of those who love Him”. So, I am blessed.<br /><br />Let me now share the activities of my journey since my last blog. Again, please forgive me for the long duration in between blogs. God keeps me so busy with so many tasks and responsibilities, beyond my own capability to accomplish. Perhaps this is His way of keeping me humble and dependant on Him.<br /><br /><a style="font-weight: bold;" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTSlwZyIu5no_tBI_JSOoMwsnXXVeY-XHSmSzzKSeP8QWahp3zy26xe-U7reWsfb0Xb_YcI4_Dh4_EaFTSze4X_QALu2Ibur-uvEQu6_tqsuxHoC3ZUvncWn9w-S7zmcjDSi7hpcHSTDU/s1600-h/image003.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 136px; height: 278px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTSlwZyIu5no_tBI_JSOoMwsnXXVeY-XHSmSzzKSeP8QWahp3zy26xe-U7reWsfb0Xb_YcI4_Dh4_EaFTSze4X_QALu2Ibur-uvEQu6_tqsuxHoC3ZUvncWn9w-S7zmcjDSi7hpcHSTDU/s200/image003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179144460807282674" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">December 2007 KAMPALA, UGANDA ¬– UGANDA MISSION:</span> As the first term of school ended for the Winter Break, I was privileged to have been invited to visit the ministries of Pastor Everest Bizimungu in Kampala, Uganda. This was my first trip out of Kigali since I arrived in Rwanda and definitely my first venture in another country of Africa. <span style="font-style: italic;">[PHOTO 1: Pastors Bizimungu and Shyaka’s family and home welcoming]</span><br /><br />I took a 10 hour bumpy and rainy bus ride escorted by the pastor and my dear friend Francis. First, the enemy tried to thwart our plans by delaying Francis’ passport for 2 weeks and sending news of an ebola quarantine in Uganda. We prayed and prayed and nothing could stop us. After days of waiting in line, Francis finally got his passport and we crossed the border.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb61D4Rkqa6A3ksVX0-joyMVHYouQOxbPNaoaIDBcjSVAWNKw7JWc1ds8V2SlPLqMc2ssCo6a-pp23-QWjFuL1tfWeegigZyW4vTXWQwZ6yw31hYjdKLhQyWQHVzrEB-e8UObNVYQj3wA/s1600-h/image005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 141px; height: 282px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhb61D4Rkqa6A3ksVX0-joyMVHYouQOxbPNaoaIDBcjSVAWNKw7JWc1ds8V2SlPLqMc2ssCo6a-pp23-QWjFuL1tfWeegigZyW4vTXWQwZ6yw31hYjdKLhQyWQHVzrEB-e8UObNVYQj3wA/s200/image005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179145766477340674" border="0" /></a>My trip to Kampala, was such a blessed growth experience. I learned so much about God’s will and power. Pastor Bizimungu and Pastor Shyaka hosted Francis and I in their homes in the Kisugu slum district of Kampala. It was amazing! His wife, children and household were amazingly gracious. This is the most humble pastor I know as he surprised me by giving Francis and I his pulpit at Kisugu Christian Fellowship to teach every night and one Sunday for an entire week. We taught about the Heart of Praise and Worship. This is no small thing as it is not common for an African pastor to give the pulpit to lay people. I prayed for God to bring me the words and lessons and He did. We also taught the worship team English worship songs. And God had me share my life rescue testimony with the church. Now I am blessed with a Ugandan family and church. I love them so much!!! <span style="font-style: italic;">[PHOTO 2: Streets and children of Kisugu district, Kampala UGANDA]</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Z2E0LRX3LBbossN-x699WE2glOC61nNpXbgmjKhV1ySlibHAum4Ek1Rbp7wjYnOxu35o8OhCuJC1klOvg0RDlqxaJ411uAvK2i8RsOD14xK-ZK_MKCLbHTvyMMklcQkMLHEjTbpUTJg/s1600-h/image007.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 180px; height: 144px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7Z2E0LRX3LBbossN-x699WE2glOC61nNpXbgmjKhV1ySlibHAum4Ek1Rbp7wjYnOxu35o8OhCuJC1klOvg0RDlqxaJ411uAvK2i8RsOD14xK-ZK_MKCLbHTvyMMklcQkMLHEjTbpUTJg/s320/image007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179147982680465426" border="0" /></a>The pastor also took us around Kampala to visit families of his Hope Prison Ministry, which serves families of women whose husbands are doing time in prison and are left alone to support their children financially and spiritually. Some are suffering with HIV and struggling to feed their children or provide school fees. Their weathered faces told of their hardships, yet they yearned for hope from Jesus. I hope to help collaboratively with this ministry to find a sustainable future for these people. <span style="font-style: italic;">[PHOTO 3: Wives and families of Prisoners of Hope Prison Ministry]</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO2BxVoS-IjkOBDQ4nY2ymje8LmVf4bULslOC9UBMcgvk-9NNjUnCgATrl5jEmWpVTjBN3QKlTqOhNhowPCjh9yI_3DVtwvCkQ2KyyafbwZLW-JhI7pQDZhhoWm-6FC60mlaTko_ZvWVU/s1600-h/image009.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 151px; height: 302px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiO2BxVoS-IjkOBDQ4nY2ymje8LmVf4bULslOC9UBMcgvk-9NNjUnCgATrl5jEmWpVTjBN3QKlTqOhNhowPCjh9yI_3DVtwvCkQ2KyyafbwZLW-JhI7pQDZhhoWm-6FC60mlaTko_ZvWVU/s320/image009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179150151638949922" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">December 2007 KIGALI, RWANDA – CHRISTMAS NYABUGOGO MISSION: </span>When we returned from Uganda, it was time to prepare for my first Christmas in Rwanda with my church family. Spending the holidays with Victory Mission Church was a blessing, but not without challenges and lessons.<br /><br />First, God blessed me with a move to a miraculously affordable house of my own across from my church in Kanombe district. Now I am not only close to my appointed church, but can now have the privacy to fellowship and conduct ministry business. This would also now allow me to partake in more activities without fighting transportation challenges.<br /><br />My first task was to plan our first outreach mission activity as the officially elected Worship Team Missions Outreach Coordinator. My co-leaders and I went to the market to purchase food and clothes for 140 boys. Then, on Saturday, December 20, 2007 we visited the Nyabugogo Orphanage to bless the children with Christmas greetings from Jesus. We praised and worshiped with about 200 boys and girls, shared some treats with them, gave them the gift of clothes from Jesus, and showed they the movie The Nativity Story projected on the wall with a Kinyarwanda translator. They loved the movie. You could hear ooh’s and awh’s and the grand applause as Jesus was born. <span style="font-style: italic;">[PHOTO 4: Rwanda Victory Mission Worship Team Bring Christmas to Nyabugogo orphans]</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbP1yVg8zpf_l-tQEyphXFca_E7XcnUUfgB5Pq-o68zxlWFm0wgwIRYMqeM0k5bUwNaglFpF98mST4jL_G3lCTy83e-Mte5Q6Lg-H30iwyIbbemCCIGaeqF6cPhI3GfFXChnL1EKF1u_U/s1600-h/image011.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 173px; height: 287px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbP1yVg8zpf_l-tQEyphXFca_E7XcnUUfgB5Pq-o68zxlWFm0wgwIRYMqeM0k5bUwNaglFpF98mST4jL_G3lCTy83e-Mte5Q6Lg-H30iwyIbbemCCIGaeqF6cPhI3GfFXChnL1EKF1u_U/s320/image011.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179154725779120178" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">December 25, 2007 KIGALI, RWANDA – CHRISTMAS EVE AT RWANDA VICTORY MISSION CHURCH: Ne</span>xt, we prepared for a very special Christmas Eve Praise & Worship and Overnight Prayer program sponsored by the Worship Team. This was the first time the worship team would lead a special event. We planned both English and Kinyarwanda Christmas songs including a rendition of O, Holy Night which ended with a beautiful spontaneous churchwide candlelight vigil. We showed The Nativity Story to a huge turnout of church members and people off the street. Again, a grand applause from the crowd marked the climactic birth of Jesus. It was an amazing birthday celebration for Jesus. This was followed by a morning Christmas service. It was a long night, but blessed. Thank God I lived nearby. <span style="font-style: italic;">[PHOTO 5: Worship Team leads worship for New Years; Crowd watches “The Nativity Story”]</span><br /><br />The holidays in Kigali were peaceful and quiet, like a ghost town. All muzungus and tourists were out of town visiting resorts and family in Kenya, South Africa and the US. The city was peacefully barren and shut down.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">January 1, 2008 KIGALI, RWANDA</span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">– ROLLING IN THE NEW YEAR WITH RWANDA VICTORY MISSION CHURCH: </span>After a few days of rest, we were onto the New Years Eve overnight prayer service at church. An exhausted worship team again served in the service.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi39_KoS9fXwwrYM7mu3JzBlJ7WnssMJfjuN7H3q_MuvZenZwC9HiP4SNYbk_rl0eidh7qokNaly5xAkHz4cLw4v3dGVLsRVTE-6LmkpNowcEWG_v9Hrljfjg5j5IWJgVIRh5J-Z20SiCA/s1600-h/image013.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 169px; height: 158px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi39_KoS9fXwwrYM7mu3JzBlJ7WnssMJfjuN7H3q_MuvZenZwC9HiP4SNYbk_rl0eidh7qokNaly5xAkHz4cLw4v3dGVLsRVTE-6LmkpNowcEWG_v9Hrljfjg5j5IWJgVIRh5J-Z20SiCA/s320/image013.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179155713621598274" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">January 7, 2008 KIGALI, RWANDA – NEW SCHOOL TERM:</span> The holidays were finished and it was time to get back to work as the new school term began. KICS increased in student population to nearly 100 in the student body. My students shifted and increased. It was time to get busy again. <span style="font-style: italic;">[PHOTO 6: KICS Enric Sifa visits KICS students]</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLB2avfcYdqM29Mg8TOZm-1nJGRduIBgpw3fYhYn3vu5ikDYSdO-qSojHBodmGVccP8Cz5qg18nTylJPf99gkgcm6phTgqJSFdDsvUgJl2meVJIdTMs2iARXhJc8VrDHS4DifD7aGvSbk/s1600-h/image015.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 198px; height: 264px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLB2avfcYdqM29Mg8TOZm-1nJGRduIBgpw3fYhYn3vu5ikDYSdO-qSojHBodmGVccP8Cz5qg18nTylJPf99gkgcm6phTgqJSFdDsvUgJl2meVJIdTMs2iARXhJc8VrDHS4DifD7aGvSbk/s320/image015.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179156821723160658" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">March 2, 2008 KIGALI, RWANDA – ENRIC SIFA CONCERT:</span> As I started to write my next blog in February, God brought me a new challenge. I was connected with a local musician with US backing who was releasing his first US produced CD <span style="font-style: italic;">Just A Moment</span> and needed help with promotions and management. Since I have some experience in the music and entertainment industry in the US, I signed on to promote his album in Kigali and produce his first live concert. This was a full-time endeavor (while I was also working at the school), but a blessed learning experience. I partnered with my friend Francis who knew Enric as a friend and is involved with the local music scene. Promoting in Africa was an interesting learning experience that differs much from the US – different market and limited resources. We placed his CDs all over town, got radio promotions and spots, did a mall appearance, visited several churches, and booked a venue for his concert. We also gathered musicians for his band and booked rehearsal times. I organized the budget, scheduled the program, designed creative lighting and projection, hung posters, sold tickets and CDs, booked some live promotional appearances, organized VIPs, and chauffeured musicians and equipment around.<br /><br />Enric is not just an artist, but also a music ministry in that he shares his testimony rescue to give people hope. Enric became an orphan in his teens just after the genicide. He lived on the streets surviving off his music and eating trash. Africa New Life Ministries found Enric and sponsored him for school and living while he toured with the group the Hindurwas. Now, Enric and his US sponsor/agent produced his first solo album and were trying to build his own ministry. <span style="font-style: italic;">(Visit http://www.enricsifa.com)</span><br /><br />My students at KICS all got involved and were blessed. The middle school volunteered as ticket and CD sales people, stage door security, and VIP hosts. Many more students and their families attended the Enric Sifa <span style="font-style: italic;">Just A Moment Concert </span>hosted at Christian Life Assembly (CLA) on March 1, 2008. Even the mayor of Kigali joined the concert. It was a truly international event and testimony of God’s miracles. After the concert Enric set out for a 6 month US tour with the Hindurwas and Africa New Life Ministries. <span style="font-style: italic;">[PHOTO 7: Enric Sifa at rehearsals and in concert]</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_m4RVzbBf94WtmNUg1ZlaAUzq7gynyduDj2tpJP0k8Z6o_4ABbZa5Gh8aiearbEZ-_fPcTr0tIMycS8uO9FRtCZohd9AW7QrUXVIXnQj2HcbVuyh2QOqbvdzkuMy2ElD_gD7kM8EDoQ/s1600-h/image017.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhx_m4RVzbBf94WtmNUg1ZlaAUzq7gynyduDj2tpJP0k8Z6o_4ABbZa5Gh8aiearbEZ-_fPcTr0tIMycS8uO9FRtCZohd9AW7QrUXVIXnQj2HcbVuyh2QOqbvdzkuMy2ElD_gD7kM8EDoQ/s320/image017.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5179158509645308002" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">March 7, 2008 AKAGERA, RWANDA – AKEGERA WILDLIFE PARK: </span>After three months of non-stop work I needed a rest and to see more of Rwanda and refocus on God’s plans. I also wanted to get some African animal photos to show my niece and nephew in the US. So, Francis (the African Diego the Exploreer) and I (Jungle Linda) took off to see the animals of Africa at Akagera. It was amazing. Jungle Linda set out in her double cab pickup truck (an acquisition that was a miraculous answer to prayers) to explore the wilderness.<br /><br />We drove about three hours outside of Kigali to reach a reserve park where wild animals are contained and protected. With our park guide, we roamed the wilderness with antelopes, baboons, buffalos, elephants, deer, giraffes, and hippopotamuses. We actually got out of our car and roamed around near the animals (except for the buffalos). It was an amazing reminder of God’s wonderful creations. I also got to visit the villages in between where I was greeted by many children screaming “agachupa!” (water bottles they use to play games). And I got to see the lavish farmlands of Rwanda. <span style="font-style: italic;">[PHOTO 8: Animals at Akagera Wildlife Park]</span><br /><br />So, now I am back in school and finishing off the second term of my first year in Rwanda. I plan to venture out more to reach out in the heart of the land. So, keep an eye out for the next few issues as my special Rwandan friend Francis Kambale (the African Diego the Explorer) takes me to the heart of the Rwandan land and people. I still have many more projects that I am working on and will share with you as they come to fruition. Your prayers are always appreciated and felt. God bless you for caring and for reading this.<br /><br />I invite you to email and write to me any comments, questions, or concerns. Or, just to say hello. I miss my home country, friends and family very much. Please continue to pray for my support and ministry, safety and strength. Pray for me to continue to uncover and learn the true ways and needs of Africa. As you can see, your prayers have been heard as God has provided me with a car and house on what little funds I have. He gave me manna and I will use it to serve Him and the people. God bless you in whatever situation you face. Please know that I appreciate you. I too am a testimony of God’s rescue from darkness and now I serve with joy in hardship as well as abundant blessings.<br /><br />Love in Christ Jesus,<br />Linda<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAISES FOR PRAYERS ANSWERED:</span> Yesu ashimwe! (Praise the Lord!)<br />• God granted me a house near my church and an affordable vehicle<br />• God brought me special friends for help<br />• God got me through 1st and 2nd term of school<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PRAYERS NEEDED:</span> Still praying for the following…<br />• I’m praying for my<span style="font-weight: bold;"> keyboard and all electronics</span> that keep getting attacked and zapped by the unstable electricity here, even hooked up to stabilizers and adapters. I have spent a lot of money in repairs.<br />• I’m still praying for more <span style="font-weight: bold;">support funds </span>for my initial 2 years of service. Please note that new funds will be administered by Grace Deposits at Network for Good.<br />• I’m also praying for the <span style="font-weight: bold;">strategic plans, funds, and provisions </span>to start the child advocacy NGO Christ Is Our Hope International and the leadership school.<br />• I’m praying for a donation of <span style="font-weight: bold;">2 round trip tickets to US </span>for me and my Rwandan friend Francis (for this summer) so that we can share testimonies, the vision proposal, and begin raising support and foundations for the child advocacy NGO and leadership school. Also so I can visit my family that I miss soooo much!<br />• I’m praying for <span style="font-weight: bold;">Rwanda Victory Mission Church</span> and my <span style="font-weight: bold;">Worship Team</span>. To grow them in their walk of faith.<br />• I’m praying <span style="font-weight: bold;">curriculum/books </span>for KICS<br />• I am praying for donations of NIV and NASB <span style="font-weight: bold;">Bibles</span> to share with my precious English reading Rwandese friends and worship team who are hungry for God’s Word. The Kinyarwanda Bible does not translate well. I have given away all my spare ones and still have many thirsty friends.<br />• I’m praying to learn <span style="font-weight: bold;">Kinyarwanda</span> faster so I can communicate on my own. It’s a tough language.<br />• I’m praying for my <span style="font-weight: bold;">university friends</span> who are no longer getting full government scholarships, but must now (starting this term) pay partial tuition. For many in this country this is a huge change and hardship in their lives. Their free education is their only hope of elevating their lives and country. Most students are either orphans or one-parent families. A lot of their parents are elderly and no longer earning income.<br />• I’m just praying for <span style="font-weight: bold;">spiritual and emotional strength</span> as I persevere through life in Africa. I am blessed, but it’s not easy. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Cultural intricacies and financial strains</span> are starting to challenge me, not to mention that I am missing my family very much. My faith is strong, but I am still human. God takes care of me, but prayers are always appreciated.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">PLEASE SUBSCRIBE: </span><span style="font-style: italic;">I need your help to share the blessing. If you have not already done so, please click below and enter your email address in the subscription field to continue receiving THE BRIDGE TO RWANDA BLOG NEWSLETTER. FeedBurner will send you a CONFIRMATION EMAIL that you must REPLY TO CONFIRM in order to activate your subscription. Also, pass the subscription and bogsite on to others to share the testimony and raise support. God bless you!</span></span><br /><br />I LOVE YOU ALL DEARLY. May the Lord shine his face upon you.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-59924829388125692002007-11-25T10:04:00.000-08:002008-12-10T00:59:13.384-08:00Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Vol. 4November 23, 2007 KIGALI, RWANDA – Grace and peace to you from Rwanda. Time just runs away from me here as God keeps me so busy. His grace abounds and my cup runeth over. The Lord keeps growing me stronger and stronger with trials and blessings. He has me juggling multi-proje<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZSaSJY3Uu_LsAeiLPsgy8SmdwGlPDS5VdpStpqCpaN2mTQwrwAqMsDLO4f-wzuxBHFmgzw_0DWZXymLCsi1pY6vsxnatfuFXSbpCNtmrnbLljtg_GRKG7ARDs0YG5UhoAwTMDTir-Kc/s1600-h/image001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 162px; height: 122px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPZSaSJY3Uu_LsAeiLPsgy8SmdwGlPDS5VdpStpqCpaN2mTQwrwAqMsDLO4f-wzuxBHFmgzw_0DWZXymLCsi1pY6vsxnatfuFXSbpCNtmrnbLljtg_GRKG7ARDs0YG5UhoAwTMDTir-Kc/s320/image001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136841055965761442" border="0" /></a>cts, which I receive as a privilege and honor that He entrusts me to handle. But it is not I who handles anything, but God Himself who orchestrated and manages them. And His presence and covering is felt so strongly within me that I can hardly express it in words at times. There are many days when I cannot conceive of fitting all I have to do in the day, but God miraculously pulls me through. And the ongoing theme of bringing me people and resources continues…all to build God’s dream for Rwanda. Its all about the Worship of Christ Jesus.[PHOTO: Rwanda Victory Mission Worship Team]<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhXF1OB3KWisaHeN_7sGGvouq05J5n6BiALaA_nDErvmcyML-zHRFbzaSFNJIZsyIvokPQ3QQgmSdcrWhMHC_n_9NosuJcJmaBgdX5vdqQgCIXujC4R4ax6JHnSg7VXTIhIAdsbOhHGc/s1600-h/image003.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirhXF1OB3KWisaHeN_7sGGvouq05J5n6BiALaA_nDErvmcyML-zHRFbzaSFNJIZsyIvokPQ3QQgmSdcrWhMHC_n_9NosuJcJmaBgdX5vdqQgCIXujC4R4ax6JHnSg7VXTIhIAdsbOhHGc/s320/image003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136841674441052082" border="0" /></a>The end of the first term of school year 2007-8 at Kigali International Community School (KICS) is coming to a completion. This year I have a full load of classes and an array of students. We doubled the school population with an increase in Rwandese students. I mainly teach Grade 4 and 5 simultaneously. Our supplies and curriculum is still very limited for reasons of budget and shipping challenges, so I pull much from what I know of my life experience. It was a rocky start as the students have such diverse educational, language, and familial backgrounds and levels, but my feet are stable and the kids are growing and learning. Our favorite part of the day is morning devotionals when my class and I learn from God’s word and pray together. They are young, but thirsty for His word.[PHOTOS: My 4th and 5th Grade class at KICS]<br /><br />I also teach both the Middle School and High School computer classes, which have evolved into journalism classes because of a lack of software and internet access. The High School is assigned the first student-produced KICS yearbook. The Middle School is assigned the first student-produced newspaper called Top of the Hill. They are learning hands-on organizational, leadership, research, and reporting skills. Producing a yearbook and newspaper in Africa is no easy task, but God will bring it.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2x3IuRtwt8z1D250tzyhGvrEcAJLF_Frg9oaHr3ZKrJ5qTtydDnnZNcxO-nSnKdLSWDUOmLc6z8mNSOzXAc2PCUs63q1ftYNR5dZ_D2WXCeb2NsyZvvjGjqmITsmwjqIFtyB0vpcWM8/s1600-h/image009.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 136px; height: 262px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjc2x3IuRtwt8z1D250tzyhGvrEcAJLF_Frg9oaHr3ZKrJ5qTtydDnnZNcxO-nSnKdLSWDUOmLc6z8mNSOzXAc2PCUs63q1ftYNR5dZ_D2WXCeb2NsyZvvjGjqmITsmwjqIFtyB0vpcWM8/s320/image009.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136844479054696418" border="0" /></a>One of my most blessed assignments from God is integrating into Rwanda Victory Mission church. First, God has filled me with supernatural love for this church. I say supernatural because it’s beyond reason. I have yet to know each individual and the culture, yet I just felt the Holy Spirit place and bind my heart with the heart of the church. They are my family here in Rwanda. God has designated me the task of helping to grow the church, especially the youth, to stand up for their country as servant leaders. First, let me point out that in Rwanda “youth” is officially any unmarried person below age 45. Well, that counts me in as youth. Gotta love it! [PHOTOS: My beloved church Rwanda Victory Mission]<br /><br />God has designated RVM Worship Team as the doorway to my place in the church. In the beginning there was chaos and now God has breathed a new start for the Worship Team. I advise and help to revamp the management and growth of the Worship team. It has been both a tremendous challenge and a tremendous blessing. My friend Turambe is the Worship Team Director. Our enhanced vision and mission is to serve and honor God by modeling and teaching a lifestyle of true worship. We are now more than singers, but primarily commited followers of Christ. I have been voted into the leadership team as Outreach Missions Projects Coordinator, which I am very excited about. We will be growing together with Bible studies, skills training, and inreach/outreach mission projects. I will eventually help set up a blog for the worship team to use in ministry. I am also teaching Bible, technical sound and stage production, music theory, guitar, and English worship music to the team to enhance their <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglsPSqNANA5fRrT4tmyilFmz9HhGfhg_YnHf3dPoZaHdAuz4NUi2rN_DAwXY7BmKS1F_N7EP0AMklyZ5unkI_u-BoJcDL3E4dKoUjkyGKMHtJ26Uh1kvJYnP5Um0JZttLgHme8fEiGfOE/s1600-h/image005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 125px; height: 359px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglsPSqNANA5fRrT4tmyilFmz9HhGfhg_YnHf3dPoZaHdAuz4NUi2rN_DAwXY7BmKS1F_N7EP0AMklyZ5unkI_u-BoJcDL3E4dKoUjkyGKMHtJ26Uh1kvJYnP5Um0JZttLgHme8fEiGfOE/s320/image005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136842486189871042" border="0" /></a>ability to serve the Lord. I have also introduced Powerpoint projection of song verses into both the English and Kinyarwanda services, bringing a new level of focus on the meaning of the songs and a new level of congregational participation. It also allows me to participate as I can now read and sing the Kinyrarwanda songs. I have always desired to participate in worship and praise, but never imagined God would have me work with a worship team in Africa. Imana n’inziza! God is so good![PHOTOS: My Worship Team family]<br /><br />And when things are rough and I am weak, the Lord lifts me high above the clouds and refreshes me with His presence. I had been praying about being able to afford a keyboard to take on mission trips and for teaching the orphans. I only sought a safe way to transport it from the US (because mail is not safe), but God selected some wonderful godly friends (Bridge to Rwanda organization in the US) who donated and brought a keyboard to me for my ministry work. Praise the Lord!!!! Thanks Jean and Gary!!! It has been a strength and a joy. And the predicted challenges of transporting it here were paved in God’s provision. My precious friend Francis, who serves as Music Director of the Worship Team, is teaching me to play the keyboard and we are having wonderful times of exchanging God’s gifts. He teaches me to play and I teach him music theory. My mother and father would be happy to know that after years of piano lessons as a kid, I know can play accompaniment. I still have more lessons to go in order to play like Francis, but I know its God’s will and his gift. I shall use it to glorify Him. Imana n’inziza cayne cayne!!!! God is so so good!!!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvknjdZgBg8GfLmYAKZb7xkX10k7ruH6Zsgumb7rMO6Fi7xqDCJXD_Hw5Tes05RpZGFp1MeFl0zgceQPmEr6qZPS57Swp95I9bkHd4ZG8QmKMHlo3RH4BUA_bG5oz0k-KnpmtZ5NofUk/s1600-h/image007.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 143px; height: 431px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBvknjdZgBg8GfLmYAKZb7xkX10k7ruH6Zsgumb7rMO6Fi7xqDCJXD_Hw5Tes05RpZGFp1MeFl0zgceQPmEr6qZPS57Swp95I9bkHd4ZG8QmKMHlo3RH4BUA_bG5oz0k-KnpmtZ5NofUk/s320/image007.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5136843512687054802" border="0" /></a>On November 11th I had the privilege of attending the Robert Kayanja Miracle Crusade at Amahoro Stadium. The football stadium was flooded with people wanting to witness miraculous healings. Kayanja is an internationally known evangelist and miracle healer from Uganda. He has been featured on TBN and Benny Hinn crusades. Kayanja preached about sowing seeds for the country of Rwanda, about healing and forgiveness of the soul. Then, he led the multitudes in worship and prayer. The blind received sight and the deaf received their hearing. The crippled began to walk and the short of breath began to breathe. This is what I saw. I don’t judge, validate or invalidate it. It’s just what I saw. It was a wonderful time of seeing the people of Kigali joined in one stadium to worship God.[PHOTOS: From Kayanja Crusade]<br /><br />The day before, on November 10th, Jessica Kayanja, Pastor Kayanja’s wife, led the women with her Girl Power ministry at the Petit Stade. It was packed and overflowing with women. Mrs. Kayanja taught about God’s unique purpose for each woman with the illustration of Joseph’s dreamcoat. Her message is that God the Father has “made” a very special “coat” for each woman. It was a message of encouragement and empowerment.<br /><br />The time is also drawing near for me to spend my first Christmas in Rwanda, and my first Christmas away from my birth family. It will be hard, but God has already made blessed plans with my church family. First, I was invited to spend a week in December in Uganda, visiting the church and ministry of Pastor Everest Bizimungo. I will be bringing another RVM Worship Team Leader to join me in ministering and learning from the adventure that God has appointed. Please pray for safe travel all the way as the pastor is driving 10 hours to Kigali, just to drive us 10 hours back each way. What a precious man of God he is.<br /><br />We are also planning a very special Christmas Eve Church Overnight at the church where the Worship team will lead in worship, prayers, and devotional. Then, we will project the movie The Nativity Story with Kinyarwanda translation. I will miss my family soooo much, especially my nephew Tyler who has not spent a Christmas without me until now, but I am looking forward to celebrating the birth of Jesus with my church family. I wish Pastor Josephine could be here to join us, but I wish her a blessed Christmas in the US. Her church family misses her very much.<br /><br />I am also hoping to plan some Worship Team Christmas missions. I hope to have a Christmas gift drive (toys, clothing and food) at the church to gather gifts for the orphans of Nyabugogo and Ndera. I plan to bring the Worship team to celebrate Christ’s birth and deliver gifts.<br /><br />I thank you very much for being witnesses of God’s handiwork in Rwanda, and for your prayers and support. And to all those who have sent me packages of provisions, my heart is so thankful. God bless you truly and abundantly!!! I love you all and miss you all so much, but God has me right where he wants me and I give my all to Him. My every waking hour and every decision is focused on serving and pleasing my Lord. I will write again soon to share about my Christmas in Rwanda.<br /><br />Love in Christ Jesus,<br />Linda<br /><br />NEEDED PRAYERS: Still praying for the following…<br />• I’m urgently seeking an affordable house of my own, preferably near my church in Kanombe, to freely use in ministry small groups and for quiet peace time with God. There is little peace in my current living situation, but I bear it with the strength God grants me.<br />• I’m still praying for a large affordable vehicle (SUV or van) to transport equipment, supplies, orphans, and ministry teams. I have not been able to see my Ndera orphan kids because I don’t have transportation to facilitate tight schedules. I spend much time waiting for pick up rides.<br />• I’m still praying for more support funds for my initial 2 years of service.<br />• I’m also praying for funds and provisions to start the child advocacy NGO Christ Is Our Hope International and the leadership school. Also, praying to finish the strategic plan.<br />• I’m praying for my student class, all their projects, and peace.<br />• I’m praying for continued strength and covering to weather the storms and keep the faith.<br />• I’m praying for Rwanda Victory Mission Church and my Worship Team family. To grow them in their walk of faith.<br />• I’m praying for peace and joy this Christmas in Rwanda.<br />• I’ praying for my family in the US to know how much I love them and miss them. And that they would see Christ in me.<br />• I am praying for a digital camera because mine broke. I now use my video camera to take stills, but it is not good with stills. Praying to get one sent from US so I can continue to take photos for the blog.<br />• I am praying for donations of NIV and NASB Bibles to share with my precious English reading Rwandese friends and worship team who are hungry for God’s Word. The Kinyarwanda Bible does not translate well. I have given away all my spare ones and still have many thirsty friends.<br /><br />PLEASE SUBSCRIBE: I need your help. Only 20 of my list of 300 have subscribed to this newsletter through Feedburner. You mean so much to me and I don’t want to lose you. To continue receiving the BRIDGE TO RWANDA NEWSLETTERS, please click below and enter your email address in the subscription field. Feedburner will send you a CONFIRMATION EMAIL that you must REPLY TO CONFIRMA in order to activate your subscription.<br /><br />Please take just a few seconds to remain on this list and witness God’s hand in Rwanda. The old way of sending the blog through Yahoo takes me 3 days to process. Feedburner allows me to send you the blog at one click. Thanks so much!!!<br /><br />SUBSCRIBE and postings emailed to you. If you have already been getting these newsletters and wish to continue, please enter your email below. Thanks!<br /><form action="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/a/emailverify" style="padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://www.feedburner.com', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true"><p>Enter your email address:</p><p><input style="width: 140px;" name="email" type="text"></p><input value="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~e?ffid=1206991" name="url" type="hidden"><input value="Bridge To Rwanda" name="title" type="hidden"><input value="en_US" name="loc" type="hidden"><input value="Subscribe" type="submit"><p>Delivered by <a href="http://www.feedburner.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></p></form>I LOVE YOU ALL DEARLY. May the Lord shine his face upon you.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-86966380997088901642007-10-11T14:02:00.000-07:002008-12-10T00:59:14.221-08:00Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Vol. 3<span style="font-size:85%;">NOTE: Click on photos to view enlarged version. All photos are Copyright 2007 Linda Huang. All rights reserved. Photos and articles may only be used or duplicated with the expressed permission of Linda Huang. Please respect the privacy and rights of the children. All violations will be prosecuted.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1sZDXXKlkKJvplIEq50rh5uNDQ9OMmU6UtUReTLnYhwDK7JVoAOthgZhtX-i7vUuaPxuhv6cqdkT73EFEVT3ADDxCwbyIigDuImbVH6mMoG7G5AAL2tlHBaVdk7XG5xdH8DVbwSQj1ik/s1600-h/PIC_0094.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 149px; height: 199px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1sZDXXKlkKJvplIEq50rh5uNDQ9OMmU6UtUReTLnYhwDK7JVoAOthgZhtX-i7vUuaPxuhv6cqdkT73EFEVT3ADDxCwbyIigDuImbVH6mMoG7G5AAL2tlHBaVdk7XG5xdH8DVbwSQj1ik/s320/PIC_0094.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5120352751852707186" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">October 10, 2007 KIGALI, RWANDA – Muraho (Hello)! It’s been a huge stretch since my last newsletter. God has kept me tremendously busy and running around chasing time and tasks. This newsletter will be a little bit of news and a little bit of culture. God is working out different muscles in me, ones of ultimate patience and flexibility, stretching my creativity and resourcefulness to accomplish tasks in extraordinary ways. And, of course, comes the utmost humility. He is also re-working my independence. In this African climate, I have to depend on people or take risks on them in order to get information or translation. And even though the words can get translated, sometimes the meaning or cultural way has not been translated. Most everything is acquired by word-of-mouth and relationships. But the relationships are still a work in progress.</span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /></span><span style="font-style: italic;font-size:100%;" ><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrglBv6FB7L34BCBDPs-d7eAlsk_D02PbtPcs0lq5vIArttvIfIsp67aWwQHf8qs9-Yo0y5_s0IwBZ8PrPwyH_EOyKm3k1OBWbJNK7-Skiacg6Y4c7bUIqdkLWaQ_Lxa_ZSkEfrhRwp4g/s1600-h/image001.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrglBv6FB7L34BCBDPs-d7eAlsk_D02PbtPcs0lq5vIArttvIfIsp67aWwQHf8qs9-Yo0y5_s0IwBZ8PrPwyH_EOyKm3k1OBWbJNK7-Skiacg6Y4c7bUIqdkLWaQ_Lxa_ZSkEfrhRwp4g/s320/image001.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5120332647110794482" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;"> [PHOTOS: New e3 Partners church plant in Karangazi]</span><br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;">Although there are still many challenges, God has blessed me and I am acclimating well to the African culture. In fact, the Rwandese have initiated me as a fellow Rwandese. Everything here takes 10 more steps and 10 times more energy to accomplish than it would in the US, yet things start later and close earlier so you have a shorter timespan in which to accomplish things. Time management and multi-tasking is literally a foreign concept. And, with limited resources, your choices of equipment or tools are stumbling blocks. However, there is an open market for learning and they are hungry for knowledge and thirsting for hope.<br /><br />The electricity in Rwanda is very unstable and there are huge power surges, so it’s necessary to carry huge stabilizer boxes to protect expensive equipment. And even then it’s the risk you take with refurbished or low market equipment at high prices. So far, the school has fried two projectors and a several printers, all of which have to be sent in from the States. So, each teacher carries around her own self-purchased 15 lb. stabilizer to and from home to use for projectors, laptops, and home appliances. I spent the entire day running around town looking for a new stabilizer because my cheaply manufactured stabilizer is no longer stable. Stores are not regularly stocked so I had to go from store to store on foot looking for a certain brand that I was told was a more dependable brand. There are no addresses, maps or yellow pages here so it was a treasure hunt looking for stores. Nevertheless, God finally blessed it as I found one at a decent price, which is not at all cheap.<br /><br />School year 2007-2008 has resumed at Kigali International Community School (KICS) and our new school year started with many new changes and challenges. We finally have a headmaster from the US, Brian Dolinger and his wife Christy, who are a great blessing to the development of the school. In fact, Brian is one tiny step closer to registering the school officially. Praise the Lord! We have a full week and extended hours this year so there has been much to adjust to, but we have a leader to shape the school. We doubled our student population and increased it to 50% Rwandese and added some French, Swahili, Computers, Speech, Chemistry, Biology, and Weightlifting classes for the secondary school. This year I am teaching Grade 4 and 5 simultaneously as well as two secondary level Computer classes so I am swamped with planning and grading. The US Embassy donated 22 computers to us, yet it’s been a process getting the power in the building prepared to handle multiple machines. Then, we don’t have internet cards, software, or curriculum. Luckily I have over 16 years of digital graphic design knowledge and experience so I can pull curriculum from my experience. So, I began computer classes without hands-on equipment or software. We are limited in textbooks and curriculum so teachers have to improvise. We did not have a copier at first, but our new headmaster finally blessed us with one. Hallelujah! Then, keeping a steady supply of ink and paper is quite a task here. All in all we are blessed to have what we have and God is continually adding to His provision.<br /><br />The educational climate of Rwanda humbles me at frustrating times - to know that most Rwandan schools never open a book. From pre-school to university levels, students learn from notes and lectures of unpublished teachers from all sorts of foreign backgrounds. They are expected to "cram" or memorize these notes verbatim and be tested on theories without practicum or demonstration. Some schools may have small libraries, but students must use them at their own leisure if they have time to fit in a book after memorizing notes. It’s an educational climate that is underdeveloped and fails to prepare a student for practical work in real-life. There is no training in problem solving or project management. This is one area that I hope to be able to influence and help advance. It breaks my heart to see my friends study so hard, even missing Sunday church, and not gain any practicum or job assistance. In all of Kigali, there is no library. However, the government is trying to raise money to build their first public library. KICS is blessed because our headmaster’s wife is getting a Masters in Library Science from UNT and is developing a library from ministry-donated books that are arriving soon. So, even before the city’s public library, KICS will have a full-fledged library in due time.<br /><br />The Lord has also blessed me with many more connections and experiences that affirm the calling to one day start a child advocacy organization and a school to raise orphans as leaders of peace. My church had a week-long conference that I attended nightly and was blessed by. We had pastors from Uganda, Denmark and Rwanda. I had the privilege to meet many pastors from around the Great Lakes Region of Africa, some have invited me to visit. I will visit Uganda on my November or December holidays. I am hoping to explore firsthand the true and specific conditions of children’s lives and needs all around Africa.<br /><br />I continue with weekly Kinyarwanda lessons and they are going well. I love my teacher Felix. We share our love for the Lord and this country. Its a tough language to learn because there are so many rules to consider, but I am hanging in and will eventually be able to carry on a conversation. Felix is teaching me church words so I can understand my Sundays better. Learning the kinyarwanda songs will also help.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OxtljGXOJ_OrZqj9SSd7wGfSuky1AOk_qDU7zQ_cNX73PMFqWJ2T4l0eeI20_4DNZUnIvIlskIMIZOKFTaKACwwGhQqdrxoEIjzq6XATcrNJOK3Oe9cbp887xZPOXAvb5jxp6_CxN10/s1600-h/image003.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5OxtljGXOJ_OrZqj9SSd7wGfSuky1AOk_qDU7zQ_cNX73PMFqWJ2T4l0eeI20_4DNZUnIvIlskIMIZOKFTaKACwwGhQqdrxoEIjzq6XATcrNJOK3Oe9cbp887xZPOXAvb5jxp6_CxN10/s320/image003.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5120333527579090178" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">[PHOTO: Rwanda Victory Mission Conference with Pastor Josephine and guest pastors. Children’s Choir “Voice of Angels.” RVM watched “Facing the Giants” as Pastor Josephine translates.]</span><br /><br />God has implanted in me a deep love for my Rwandan church and I am beginning to get involved in serving and helping the church to grow as the Body of Christ. I started with the Worship team. We introduced projected song lyrics last week with the projector that God had instructed me to purchase before I left he US. It was a foreign addition to the Spirit-driven group who were used to singing random lyrics and improvising, but it was a hit. People were encouraged to participate more now that they know the real words and feel invited to interact with the worship team. Its brought a new meaning to the mysterious words. We project both English and Kinyarwanda translations. I hope to have some fellowship nights when I might project movies to teach cultural and Bible study movies. I am mentoring the team to be more than song leaders, but ministers and teachers of worship. It was difficult to grasp at first, but we are bonding. And as we bond and work together, God moves and they see. Praise the Lord! There is a work He does in me as well as I have had to step out of my shell and be bold, patient, persevering, and brave.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4vFXXHfBwdCV3VmUtDZlQnc68zW3IyHAZ_2aE55iNmGMS5E54pqYk4scrB3VQbNQ6NdqYxp4mw00gzjDJr79CJjd_FNeDzwGLOz973WQem_6L-PXRRs-JsxIuqbgttKRhJ_HrGCpcrw/s1600-h/image005.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR4vFXXHfBwdCV3VmUtDZlQnc68zW3IyHAZ_2aE55iNmGMS5E54pqYk4scrB3VQbNQ6NdqYxp4mw00gzjDJr79CJjd_FNeDzwGLOz973WQem_6L-PXRRs-JsxIuqbgttKRhJ_HrGCpcrw/s320/image005.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5120334257723530514" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">[PHOTO: Robert's Heart for Kids Rwanda] </span><br />My friend Robert who is the Country Director for e3Partners took me out into the countryside to visit some church plants in Nagatare and Karangazi. It was a blessing to meet new Believers who are hungry for Christ. Robert shared the Gospel and AIDs prevention using the evangecube. I had the pleasure of greeting and sharing God’s Word and special messages with two churches. Robert also took me to the beginnings and future home of Heart for Kids Rwanda, his personal kids rescue ministry. Everywhere I went children were worshiping and rejoicing in the Lord. Hallelujah!<br /><br />The orphans in Ndera are progressing in their faith and their studies. It’s a challenge balancing time and getting to them without a vehicle (which I am still praying about), but I do my best. The headmaster of the Ndera secondary school has allowed us to use one of his classrooms so we no longer have to sit on mats in Mamma Perin’s living room and I will have a chalkboard. I am praying for paper and pencils so I can teach them to write as well as read. Meanwhile, the chalkboard will have to suffice.<br /><br />We had the wonderful occasion to take another trip outside of Ndera to see a wonderful children’s music show presented by Jana Alayra, a musician from California who creates Christian children’s music with sign language movements. This trip was an accident, but a wonderful one at that. God uses everything. The children were blessed with a new experience outside of their impoverished surroundings and I gained some curriculum that I even use at KICS with my 4th and 5th graders. I am praying for an extraordinarily affordable mini-van so that I can take the children to more events like this. So far, we have had to rent vans for each excursion.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLCF98CU6EJ5t7L1Xj70KRXM3TIZ0glND7By14tfeUT8hqDiNIerS5Dt2pKKT7DTHXA54lims4T_Uu2UXofIvVqOrzZ56xaAWbNMUtgPrUQWknafTzoirtFJzKvFEblD25aLOn7ltO_jo/s1600-h/lorax2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLCF98CU6EJ5t7L1Xj70KRXM3TIZ0glND7By14tfeUT8hqDiNIerS5Dt2pKKT7DTHXA54lims4T_Uu2UXofIvVqOrzZ56xaAWbNMUtgPrUQWknafTzoirtFJzKvFEblD25aLOn7ltO_jo/s320/lorax2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5120338977892588850" border="0" /></a> Everywhere I go I share my passion for God and music, bonding with the Rwandese. Everywhere I go I grow to love these people more and more. However, it’s still a spiritual battle to educate and empower the people. There are so many kinds of influences changing the culture already. Like Dr. Seuss’s The Lorax, the Truffula Forest is lush and beautiful, just as is Rwanda, and many are coming to reap the beauty and profit from it. But like the story, we must beware not to strip the land of its innate gifts. We must nurture, enhance, and replant. This place of a thousand hills is very special to God and I will spend the rest of my life preserving God’s land and people for His glory. Yesu ashimwe!<br /><br />Please pray for me as I try to wrap up the proposal for the God’s vision for Rwanda to build peacekeeping leaders out of the rubbles of war. There are many obstacles that I am facing (which I won’t go into detail about), but I know absolutely that this is God’s will and plan, and his plan shall be accomplished by His power. I am merely a vessel for his works.<br /><br />The support fundraising for my mission is going well, yet I am still raising funds for my two-year initial term here as well as the orphan children’s ministry God has called me to build in Rwanda. Please see my blog for details on donating. As KICS gets registered I will be registering with the school and managing my funds more directly through Grace Deposits and Network for Good. Please direct new donations to Grace Deposits (see instruction on blog). Stay tuned for more information.<br /><br />All in all, God is so good to me. Your prayers are always felt and appreciated. They keep me safe on the street motos and in cultural trials. I love you all truly and pray for your life to be as filled with joy of the Lord. God bless you truly!!! Drop me a note every once in a while. I love to hear from friends and family at home.<br /><br />PLEASE NOTE: I need your help. I found a more efficient way to distribute this newsletter through Feedburner. <span style="font-weight: bold;">You mean so much to me and I don’t want to lose you. To continue receiving the BRIDGE TO RWANDA NEWSLETTERS and other blog postings about my mission, please <span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 0);">enter your email address in the subscription field</span><span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 0);"> below and click Subscribe</span>. Thanks so much!!!</span><br /><br />Love in Christ Jesus,<br />Linda</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">SUBSCRIBE</span><br />Subscribe and get updates of <span style="font-weight: bold;">The Bridge To Rwanda Newsletters </span>and postings emailed to you. If you have already been getting these newsletters and wish to continue, please enter your email below. Thanks!<br /><form action="http://www.feedburner.com/fb/a/emailverify" style="padding: 3px; text-align: center;" target="popupwindow" method="post" onsubmit="window.open('http://www.feedburner.com', 'popupwindow', 'scrollbars=yes,width=550,height=520');return true"><p>Enter your email address:</p><p><input style="width: 140px;" name="email" type="text"></p><input value="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~e?ffid=1206991" name="url" type="hidden"><input value="Bridge To Rwanda" name="title" type="hidden"><input value="en_US" name="loc" type="hidden"><input value="Subscribe" type="submit"><p>Delivered by <a href="http://www.feedburner.com/" target="_blank">FeedBurner</a></p></form></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-84742170133246666602007-08-14T17:49:00.001-07:002008-12-10T00:59:14.926-08:00Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Vol. 2<span style="font-style:italic;">NOTE: Click on photos to view enlarged version. All photos are Copyright 2007 Linda Huang. All rights reserved. Photos and articles may only be used or duplicated with the expressed permission of Linda Huang. Please respect the privacy and rights of the children. All violations will be prosecuted.</span><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjn9gGR-SwV_vvWj_FynDf9er31mgoSWP3bn-uFBl3AqAMFNUC1zKuyzPX0h4FnQhMK1CWhdziwGeKYZIqUWan7ZF5vNceWtA5TUr2PYcrHoblaCI2PW117zFHvDdRfYaGinB_jPlLNMQ/s1600-h/image007.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjn9gGR-SwV_vvWj_FynDf9er31mgoSWP3bn-uFBl3AqAMFNUC1zKuyzPX0h4FnQhMK1CWhdziwGeKYZIqUWan7ZF5vNceWtA5TUr2PYcrHoblaCI2PW117zFHvDdRfYaGinB_jPlLNMQ/s200/image007.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5099308472374845058" /></a>August 14, 2007 KIGALI, RWANDA – “Yesu Ashimwe!” (Praise the Lord!) </span>God has been everpresent and faithful, orchestrating my time here in Rwanda, bringing many players, helpers, projects, and learning experiences. Not one moment has been in vain and I am still exploring all the avenues that He has brought to me. Sweat and tears are accompanied by miracles and joys. I have been so blessed with such sweet precious Rwandese relationships and responsibilities. Since the moment I stepped off the airplane, it has been a nonstop journey of revealing the steps to building God’s dream of a school to raise orphans as leaders of peace. This country has experienced so much social, political, and economic division and poverty. However, there is definitely evidence of revival. Many refugees who had fled Rwanda before, during, and after the genocide have returned to the country they love. There is such a desire to raise their country as a godly example. The topic of genocide is not common because they see it as the past that shall never happen again. All talk is about building the future of Rwanda. <br /><br />The cultural climate here is an odd paradox of extreme poverty and wealth, a flood of foreign mission groups and new businesses co-existing with hole-in-the-wall shops and self-sustaining agriculture, a mix of cultural pride and insecurities. There are signs of developing higher education and industry yet still lacking competitively against the global landscape. People are thirsting for knowledge and opportunity, many thinking the answer is to leave the country. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">GOD'S VISION: SCHOOL FOR ORPHANS</span><br />Before I left the US, I knew that God wanted me to someday build a school for Him in Rwanda for 100 children whom He has promised shall come out of the school as great leaders for His country and whom shall influence the rest of the world for peace. God planted the goal of a leadership curriculum founded on biblical principals, a global family perspective, hi-tech, and the arts – Christ Is Our Hope School (CIOHS) Rwanda. This is a unique school and outreach organization that models compassion and leadership to the children it teaches. For this I left my family, my church, and my life in the US. With their blessings and the umbrella of World Relief, I came to this foreign country by God’s will to follow where He leads.<br /><br />By day, I teach and serve at Kigali International Community School (KICS), a new school of NGO and embassy children, where God grows me as a humble teacher contributing to the welfare of families who come to serve. The rest of my time, weekends and holidays, has been following and exploring God’s will and His call as He places me before people, places, and situations that affirm His vision. I do nothing but follow His steps and what he brings before me. Every step of the way has been one of hardship and learning as well as experiencing His miraculous presence.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">FRIENDS IN EFFORT TO SUPPORT ORPHANS</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPFiaasJRAIwIyTU8f5jMRo6h3W8L0Pyde2bbesZgmk47-rhrmzqXmDYtpKDqdUvwutvaGihWKCrmJ-JMUDJFMeOmPnYnhZGIbFhUJMjbuQdoMA-F2QEXvyK2eC3Pe0OZOzVWsTx90ah0/s1600-h/image001.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPFiaasJRAIwIyTU8f5jMRo6h3W8L0Pyde2bbesZgmk47-rhrmzqXmDYtpKDqdUvwutvaGihWKCrmJ-JMUDJFMeOmPnYnhZGIbFhUJMjbuQdoMA-F2QEXvyK2eC3Pe0OZOzVWsTx90ah0/s320/image001.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098723907260050130" /></a> <span style="font-style:italic;">[PHOTOS: Meeting FESO for the first time; Bebe's old home where he lived alone with his siblings and an absent drunkard father (no mother); FESOkids at concert performance]</span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">God has not wasted any time</span> as He has already begun bringing me specific children for the school and the founding of a Rwandese organization that will care for orphans beyond the school. A wonderful miracle happened when I met two young secondary school students from Ndera, Felix and Alpha. We met in a mud-brick house in the neighborhood of Ndera where they attend boarding school. They had presented their dream to me and the actions that they had initiated to rescue 19 orphan children in their neighborhood. As I heard their story, my heart felt God place us together in the palm of His hands and kneeding our vision for caring for orphans together for God. I have come to believe that these two young men are 2 of the 100 kids that God has promised and called me to raise. They are fresh and innocent, but they have God’s dream and the love of the children in their hearts. I shall be a mentor, guide, partner, friend, and teacher in the lives of these two as they grow into their place of leadership. Together we are FESO (Friends in Effort to Support Orphans). FESO will eventually develop into a registered local NGO that works to meet the needs of orphan children in crisis. We already have these 19 kids from Ndera (age 1-17) who have bonded with our hearts. We will be exploring the possibility of helping the 140 boys of the Nyabugogo Orphanage (from Newsletter Volume 1) as well as others that God will bring. Please visit <a href="http://www.fesokidsrwanda.blogspot.com">www.fesokidsrwanda.blogspot.com</a>.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">JOINHANDS & JOINHEARTS</span><br />God has also brought a group of godly Rwandese businessmen and their wives called Join Hands and Join Hearts, who are to come alongside FESO and myself to build this school and initiate projects that model godly principles to the Rwandese. We will partner on business ventures to develop the local economy and generate funds to support community projects. Our role will be unique and direct, one Rwandese generation bringing up another Rwandese generation with godly integrity.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">GOD’S SEEDS WITHOUT WALLS</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fJqbVkfaN4OS8FULMG727z9pNy_4fGnSwie0q6RQd-_4A2iTJE0Y8RHv_qOFVgjlK6NR43lMOnS8RccxJmM7M-reqXN8ppbnGF4Dpk5y6c4VIslinhRngYfUISclgAtOPRwJBpo2DZg/s1600-h/image003.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fJqbVkfaN4OS8FULMG727z9pNy_4fGnSwie0q6RQd-_4A2iTJE0Y8RHv_qOFVgjlK6NR43lMOnS8RccxJmM7M-reqXN8ppbnGF4Dpk5y6c4VIslinhRngYfUISclgAtOPRwJBpo2DZg/s320/image003.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098725320304290530" /></a><span style="font-style:italic;">[PHOTOS: FESOkids prepare for concert]</span><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">God does not have to wait for walls or funds. </span>His grace is sufficient and active immediately. God alerted me that the Ndera kids were not saved, so on Saturday, 4th August 2007 we went to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with the kids of Ndera using the evangecube whereby the children received Jesus Christ as their Savior. Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! Each child literally confessed their sins to our Lord Jesus and asked Him to indwell in them to change them. These kids are from broken families and accustomed to lives of survival on the streets. They were used to wicked ways of theft, promiscuity, deceit, fear, and desperation. They embraced the hope of the Gospel like their first drink of water since living in the barren desert. God could not wait for walls so He literally planted seeds for the school to begin without walls as we now visit weekly to teach them Bible Study, English, and Music, instilling and activating the Word of God upon their hearts and lives. God’s dream cannot wait for walls, but someday it shall have walls, tools, resources, partners, supporters, and many more kids. <br /><br />A few weeks ago we had the privilege of taking FESOkids out of their impoverished surroundings to rehearse and perform at a charity concert at the small stadium for Mizero Foundation of Atlanta. It was a treat for the kids who have never been out of their impoverished neighborhoods. They were blessed to venture out to see the city and to spend time with FESO Volunteers as they performed songs written by FESO’s Alpha. (I invite you to visit FESO's blogsite. I designed the logo and site. <a href="http://www.fesokidsrwanda.blogspot.com">www.fesokidsrwanda.blogspot.com</a>)<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">PRAY FOR MORE…</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">[PHOTOS: Me with FESO, the Ndera kids and Mama Perin]</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOrSUgD9D7PC-dd9IpBO03mAnZ6arm921MVjYdXu9dhuTl-cX2f9CXO7aYobLg_Nz0CtunU0Eeb4jtAFBbyDyGSopghgfqjTaOL-qvyDN0a13TBVh0AzsAE5pkzQbWY5gcQBrtVqTZHWk/s1600-h/image005.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOrSUgD9D7PC-dd9IpBO03mAnZ6arm921MVjYdXu9dhuTl-cX2f9CXO7aYobLg_Nz0CtunU0Eeb4jtAFBbyDyGSopghgfqjTaOL-qvyDN0a13TBVh0AzsAE5pkzQbWY5gcQBrtVqTZHWk/s320/image005.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5098725908714810098" /></a><br />There are many parts in place and many more I am exploring in order to build this school. Please join me in prayer for FESO, JoinHands, and Christ is Our Hope School Rwanda. And please pray for myself as I will be writing the proposals and plans for the school as well as continuing to research the educational and business climate of the country. Pray for the new school year at KICS which begins September 3rd. Pray for daily strength to overcome trials and reap joy in His work. Please also pray for my raising of funds to build the organization and the school. I will be providing information about opportunities to invest in God’s mission as they are established. Ask God what part you shall play, as financial supporter, advocate, or Prayer Warrior. All is needed, none is too small. I know that God has a plan for you and its no accident that you are in my life and reading this. I invite you to join the mission that God has planned for Rwanda. The table is set and the plans are accomplished. You are invited to sit at the table with your wedding garment and reap the fruit of God’s plans. God bless you for your interest and your heart. If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at LHSATORI@YAHOO.COM.<br /><br />Right now there are some specific needs that I am praying about and I invite you to join me in prayer and support as God has encouraged me to “cast the net in deep water.”<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">CASTING THE NET</span><br />First, I continue to raise support funds through World Relief for my 2 year term. I have most of the first year raised, but still need funds for the second year. Heartfelt thanks to all who have answered God's call to support my commission.<br /><br />Second, I am praying for God, Jehovah Jireh the Almighty Provider, to provide a vehicle. Taxis are expensive and motos are not very safe, nor can they carry children or supplies. The cost also adds up. A vehicle would be a great asset to building God’s ministry. An entire vehicle was not budgeted into my initial fundraising. I am praying for a vehicle that can carry volunteers and some orphan kids on trips. The cost of a small used vehicle runs from $4K (US) and up. The cost of a decent used van or SUV runs $10K-12K (US). Then, there is cost of insurance, gasoline, maintenance, and international permit. In praying for a vehicle, God told me to “Cast the net out into deep water.” The car would belong to myself and Christ Is Our Hope School (CIOHS) ministry. Whatever is donated shall go into the car fund and future endeavors of CIOHS, including its establishment, general startup and operational costs, and serving the children. So far I have been using my own support funds to rent vans to transport and feed the children for their concert performance. So, if God calls you to invest in this ministry, please...<br /><br />DONATE ONLINE through <span style="font-weight:bold;">Grace Deposits</span> at <span style="font-weight:bold;">Network for Good</span>.<br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">DESIGNATE the funds to "HUANG/RWANDA" by clicking below.</span><br /><a href=" http://www.guidestar.org/partners/networkforgood/donate.jsp?ein=73-1682860 "><br /><img src="donatenowlogo1.gif" alt="Donate Now Through Network for Good"><br /></a><br />Donations through Grace Deposits will receive tax-deductible receipt.<br /><br />OR<br />if you prefer, you may WIRE FUNDS DIRECTLY to my account in Rwanda with the following information:<br /><br />Correspondents Bank:Citibank USA/New York<br />399 Park Ave.<br />New York, New York 10022<br />Swift Code: CITIUS33 <br />Account Number: 36246707 USD<br /><br />Beneficiary's Bank (My bank):Campagnie Generale De Banque SA (COGEBANQUE)<br />Swift Code: CGBKRWRW<br />Boulevard l'muganda<br />Box 5230<br />Kigali, Rwanda<br />EAST CENTRAL AFRICA<br />(final account) Name: Linda Huang<br />Account Number: 130-0153165<br /><br />NOTE: Please email me your name, city and amount (lhsatori@yahoo.com) if you make a transfer so that I can check on its arrival and thank you.<br /><br />TO LEARN MORE ABOUT FESO, please visit <a href="http://www.fesokidsrwanda.blogspot.com">www.fesokidsrwanda.blogspot.com</a> to see and read more about FESO and the kids.<br /><br />I praise God for YOU and for entrusting me with His dream. As God is my witness and Savior, this is the real thing. We shall work directly with the kids to identify and provide for their needs. This is the beginning of a grassroots development, but God can move mountains. Please pray for His protection of the vision and good relationships with all parties that cross our path. I miss my homeland, my friends, my family, my churches very much (more than you can imagine), but God has given me a home in His purpose that carries each of you with me and embraces you close in my heart wherever I am in the world.<br /><br />Love in Christ Jesus,<br />Linda<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">"Ariko rero umbuto z'Umwuka ni urukundo, n'ibyishimo, n'amahoro, no kwihangana, no kugira neza, n'ingeso nziza, no gukiranuka, no kugwa neza, no kwirinda..." - Abalagatiya 5:22-23<br /><br />"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control..." - Galatians 5:22-23</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-52557270063310594612007-06-27T12:10:00.001-07:002008-12-10T00:59:16.105-08:00Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter, Vol. 1June 27, 2007 KIGALI, RWANDA – Hallelujah! God is good! I finally got Internet installed. Yes, this is the first installment of the Bridge To Rwanda Blog Newsletter. I apologize for the period of no communications. I now know what “African Time” means – it means wait and wait and wait…until it happens. This one will be long since I haven’t written in a while. Grace and peace to your from God our Father in the Land of A Thousand Hills!<br /><br />I have been in Kigali, Rwanda (Central East Africa) for 3-1/2 weeks now. It has been a while before I had any stable means of communications because I had a rocky start with no home, no internet, no classroom, no luggage. I finally got settled with most of these things, and now I can be a part of the rest of the world. Praise the Lord for answers to prayers.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNi-Umv_qqVChXfZfY0S5PuxOv7ZcdmrEIrYxzgmZ75SqfAgxNkKWj_1VVdt-g6p_k2k8Yc4cD4M5zvOK7NsApG6sU8pkmYvNCx_nO_YsIIHEPM16iPtjebm1sY9Sz8q7OprCp44Y0Hc/s1600-h/image001.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpNi-Umv_qqVChXfZfY0S5PuxOv7ZcdmrEIrYxzgmZ75SqfAgxNkKWj_1VVdt-g6p_k2k8Yc4cD4M5zvOK7NsApG6sU8pkmYvNCx_nO_YsIIHEPM16iPtjebm1sY9Sz8q7OprCp44Y0Hc/s320/image001.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5081823674278697010" /></a>[Photo 1: The teachers of KICS] I arrived on Friday, June 1st to a wonderful greeting of new and old friends. It has been a surreal whirlwind experience since I disembarked from the airplane. I got through customs and was greeted by the surprise presence of my Rwandan friend Eddy waiting for me at the luggage pick-up. We reported my missing luggage and went out to be greeted by the expatriate entourage of the Caisse Sociale KICS community. This is when things got racing away non-stop.<br /><br />My first task was to venture out with my roommies-to-be (Amy and Jenny) in a taxi into town to exchange money at the Forex, set up a mobile phone, and grab some coffee and lunch at the Bourbon Coffee, Rwanda’s only simulation of a modern Starbuck’s Café. It was nicely located in Rwanda’s first mall, The City Market, with grocery store, food court and boutiques. Of course, it was only a fraction of what US malls are, but it’s a nice comfort. We had egg croissant sandwiches and coffee drinks.<br /><br />Afterwards we headed to where we were to temporarily camp out as housesitters of USAID reps who are on furlough in the USA while our apartment was being fixed and negotiated. What started out to be a few days turned out to be 3 weeks of living out of a suitcase in someone’s huge home. There was minimal internet so I was able to send quick messages to my family and a few friends to let them know I was alright, but unable to sit and blog.<br /><br />My first night was spent sleepless with jetlag and mosquitos buzzing in my ear. I did not have a mosquito net. I was later told to sleep with the fan on to detract the mosquitos. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezF4m7f7acWaoqmGUsPL6jJhNJyI9tWpJ8VZTiHT1r-j8M7s3oGEEGv71piLXgYrUq-DXBBeCOONB6xDWDhjVO6ChuggEirg6acDMVIs33ZcHdd8GxZ6SUbfCCeGkYzMIhfsn1powF8k/s1600-h/image003.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhezF4m7f7acWaoqmGUsPL6jJhNJyI9tWpJ8VZTiHT1r-j8M7s3oGEEGv71piLXgYrUq-DXBBeCOONB6xDWDhjVO6ChuggEirg6acDMVIs33ZcHdd8GxZ6SUbfCCeGkYzMIhfsn1powF8k/s320/image003.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5081825542589470818" /></a>[Photos 2-3: Grace runs Amahoro – Amani Africa – for widows] My second day was spent with my friend Piper from World Relief Baltimore and the World Relief Rwanda Country Director and his wife. First, we headed out to Amahoro Amani Ja Ju, a sewing coop boutique run by genocide widows - http://www.amaniafrica.org/ - and Kimironko market to haggle for a mosquito net. <br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CPpsNIFoAf2Ymqiwgo-4wVoRPD638JaU032fKv80es1kxr4M3RliWBlBVk6ORVynQ4en_u1xDTyVbxFZpFFkVVjIhbWMWV5zmrmcIrWkAyyn16yXIrrS6QTK3cfoGlj4uFIH8ENgfis/s1600-h/image004.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9CPpsNIFoAf2Ymqiwgo-4wVoRPD638JaU032fKv80es1kxr4M3RliWBlBVk6ORVynQ4en_u1xDTyVbxFZpFFkVVjIhbWMWV5zmrmcIrWkAyyn16yXIrrS6QTK3cfoGlj4uFIH8ENgfis/s320/image004.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5081828488937035954" /></a>[Photos 4-15: Nyabugogo Orphanage: 150 boys sleep on dirty mattresses on dirt floors] We also visited the Nyabugogo Orphanage with 150 former street boys of all ages. Their living conditions were very minimal, but safe compared to the street where they used to get beat up and salvage garbage for food. We heard heartbreaking testimonies. They live in an abandoned warehouse without water, sleeping on dirt floors and a few torn up and bacteria infested mattresses.They get minimal education from volunteer teachers of the government Catch-Up program. The roofs are leaky, the ventilation is minimal, and there is barely any light past sundown. My heart was heavy for them. I felt God working so rapidly to connect me with a project. I will have further blogs about this project in the future.<br /><br />I also visited Mother Teresa Orphanage Rwanda, where infants and toddlers pile in like sheep. They are kept safe and fed, but they have very little opportunities for language or skills development or any mental stimulus. It was sad to see children being raised without language and therefore any hope of a future. (Photos are strictly not allowed so I could not take any for the blog.)<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3z3hCbJELWXDl1e0FdBKXfLgDMQmN8j_Z9uzOdcFL6PndgthYGy9E1A6sfV462Yu753IEFzIhKPhRfv1CvhUmdamDf9VJOSN9HFUPnzAG8wICmNMuHIlOytkbjvpIi65lseoZFnWYtbQ/s1600-h/image007.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3z3hCbJELWXDl1e0FdBKXfLgDMQmN8j_Z9uzOdcFL6PndgthYGy9E1A6sfV462Yu753IEFzIhKPhRfv1CvhUmdamDf9VJOSN9HFUPnzAG8wICmNMuHIlOytkbjvpIi65lseoZFnWYtbQ/s320/image007.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5081826165359728770" /></a>[Photos 16-19: KICS High School students journaling in the schoolyard] I started out at Kigali International Community School (KICS) observing on my third day in Rwanda and started teaching on my fourth day. I have High School and Middle School English for this trimester. My students are mostly children of NGO or embassy staff. There are so many students applying for next semester. I will be teaching 4th and 5th grade.<br /><br />I finally got to World Relief where we meet for chapel every Friday. I have yet to start teaching English because the field workers are so busy, but it should begin soon.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNx9pZ2leiyfXNNY7dDdB-t_ZkvL6wW-C-sG_mx0GcUoYxpQ1BnDyWmfQml32vqa851V25gcKiS5HBBrMmXBY0QkefOP9n9Z3GK1Bg1YqkBWRq2ndTkBwzzuDobXt3gQvBzmkQyw1DD9A/s1600-h/image009.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNx9pZ2leiyfXNNY7dDdB-t_ZkvL6wW-C-sG_mx0GcUoYxpQ1BnDyWmfQml32vqa851V25gcKiS5HBBrMmXBY0QkefOP9n9Z3GK1Bg1YqkBWRq2ndTkBwzzuDobXt3gQvBzmkQyw1DD9A/s320/image009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5081826440237635730" /></a>[Photos 20-23: Voices of Angels Children’s Choir at Victory Mission] I explored a few churches, all of which only made me so homesick for my church. Just last Sunday I joined my friend Eddy’s church, Victory Mission Church, a real authentic Rwandan church. I know many members who were translators on my e3 Partners mission trip last year. So, it’s the closest to family I have here. And I believe that the invitation to join was God’s will. I believe I will be partnering with the church on many projects including cross-cultural exchange of worship music, technical knowledge, conference marketing, and Women for Women program (of empowering women of the genocide to assimilate into the working world).<br /><br />Just last week I had the great privilege of being invited to dine and celebrate with the President of e3 Partners, Curtis Hail, and the Board Chairman, Gerald Prince, along with several local pastors of various denominations. The ministry partners led such a wonderful worship service with traditional song and dance as well as their rendition of North American worship songs. I wish I had my camera. Robert, the Country Director of e3 Partners Rwanda and I will be partnering on projects to help the orphans and train/disciple pastors/ministry leaders.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN0GSIg_Y_htfmhwMYxnwIuYQIcIocgJXf9TzQcr-QgZjRk3gt0pfKpNeQdBVjkv1nU-EWiSzsR1eevkO7aA6psE9r_upiUyuNIo71_i3PFyjyku96qEll0HCDAPPevctoST4uydeRto4/s1600-h/image011.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiN0GSIg_Y_htfmhwMYxnwIuYQIcIocgJXf9TzQcr-QgZjRk3gt0pfKpNeQdBVjkv1nU-EWiSzsR1eevkO7aA6psE9r_upiUyuNIo71_i3PFyjyku96qEll0HCDAPPevctoST4uydeRto4/s320/image011.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5081826685050771618" /></a>[Photo 24: View from my balcony] After 3 weeks, we finally moved into our permanent apartment and today they installed internet, a true answer to prayer. My room has a balcony overlooking the city, where my friend Turambe and I sit and share worship music and God’s vision for this land of milk and honey. Turambe has a dream of a traveling Worship Group Ministry.<br /><br />So far, I have bonded with so many people and seen such great need that I must stop and pray for God’s guidance as to where to start. First, I praise Him and thank Him for Hope and Salvation and for His plans – for setting up such a blessed table of godly helpers to build His dream for Rwanda. I am astounded at His plan and I eagerly await His direction. I shared God’s message from Jeremiah 29:11 with Victory Mission, that God has “plans to prosper [them], and not to harm [them], plans to give [them] hope and a future.”<br /><br />There is so much more that I’ve been blessed to experience and so much more to come. I promise to share more, more often. Please pray for steady internet and all other electronic devices. That’s another cultural surprise. I go around carrying large box stabilizers, adapters and converters to run my electronic devices so that they do not blow in a surge. Please pray for all my boxes of books and living supplies to arrive as they are traveling in various ways.<br /><br />I have skype set up so if anyone is on skype, you may email me the time you wish to call. My skype ID is LHSATORI. I miss everyone very much. You are in my prayers and never out of my mind. I will be communicating specific needs as I develop projects so that anyone that wants to contribute to them in some way (prayer, finances, or other) may do so.<br /><br />CURRENT PRAYER REQUESTS: Please pray for...<br />. safety and favor as the least expensive form of transport is moto (back of mopeds/motorcycles) which are driven very crazily, but I must be a good steward of God’s funding and trust that He will keep me safe<br />. a working inexpensive car that I may purchase and use for ministry. Its tough describing places you need to get to. They do not have addressses here - pure descriptive instructions to get to places<br />. processing of my residency and work visa<br />. clear communications and godly relationships with World Relief, KICS expatriates, and Rwandan friends<br />. favor for my students as they write their first complete research paper for their final<br />. God's voice and direction on starting projects to help orphans and widows in a sustainable way that brings them salvation and closeness to the Lord while empowering them to also be helpers of those in need<br />. protection from interference, distractions, or attacks of the enemy<br />. the gift of language to learn kinyarwanda rapidly<br />. strength and comfort to find my place or home here in Victory Mission Church and other relationships<br /><br />If you want to drop me a line or send me a package, I can receive AIR MAIL at (usually takes 1-2 weeks):<br />Linda Huang<br />c/o Kigali International Community School<br />B.P. 6558<br />Kigali, Rwanda<br />EAST CENTRAL AFRICA<br /><br />I’d love to hear from you and we could always use new DVDs for entertainment. Please keep me and the people of this country in your prayers – that I would clearly hear God’s word, to act upon it in His way for His kingdom. I thank everyone so much – murakose cayne - for believing in God’s Dream for Rwanda.<br /><br />Imana Iguhe Umugisha (God bless you)!<br />Murabeho (Goodbye)<br /><br />Love in Christ Jesus,<br />Linda<br />----------<br />SUBSCRIPTION: If you wish to be added or removed from this MONTHLY newsletter or blog posting alert, please email me at lhsatori@yahoo.com, just write SUBSCRIBE or REMOVE in the subject line. Thanks!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-24592556980843108842007-05-30T07:23:00.000-07:002007-05-30T07:30:08.047-07:00Here we go...In a few hours I will be on the airplane headed for Amsterdam, Nairobi and finally Rwanda. I did not get a chance to email everyone to say goodby, but I think I have pretty much said goodbye to everyone in my last two weeks. I pray that God will bring you all to my blogiste to read this. God bless you all. You are in my prayers.<br /><br />Please pray for my 3 day travel and my luggage in which I carry many valuable tools for teh Lord. Pray for health as I have a wee bit of (recovering from) brochitis/larengitis, which is common for me in the changing moist weather.<br /><br />I will be out of communication for a while as I settle in, but I look forward to my first newsletter report of God's bridge to Rwanda. God has already given me several rescue missions which I will tell you about in my newsletter.<br /><br />Truly, truly, from the depths of my heart I thank God for every body, mind and spirit that follows me along the way. Peace be with you.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-26791315887347610262007-05-29T07:45:00.001-07:002007-05-30T07:23:05.842-07:00Plans to prosper...The time has come. I leave for Rwanda tomorrow and this will be my last blog before I reach "the land of honey and milk." God has taken such good care of me and all is pretty much taken care of. I don't know exactly how much has been raise up to date, but I will report more when I get ot Rwanda. There are still some things I have to finish, but I will lose internet contact until I reach Rwanda. I want to thank all my donors, friends, and family who have supported me the entire way and who go on this journey with me in thought and spirit. Words cannot express what you mean to me. And God is so pleased. I don't have much time to write, but I wanted to express thanks and just share a few words from God. Three times in three different situations from three messengers God presented this verse to me in the past few months...<br /><br />"For I know the plans I have for you...plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." (Jeremiah 29:11)<br /><br />This was God's assurance to the Jews in their exile in Babylon. At a time of hopelessness and weatheredness, God spoke through the prophet Jeremiah to assure the of the hope of a Christ they had not met yet. I walk by faith with the same assurance. God's people are precious to Him. I have no fear for I know He has "plans" for me.<br /><br />I look forward to reporting back to you through my blogs on God's movements in Africa. It may be a while as I will need to have time to settle down and assimilate to the culture and life change, but I will not forget you. So many of you have asked me to email you, which I shall do, but it would be best for you to email me when you wish and I will respond because there are so many of you that it will be difficult for me to email each of you regularly. But I am pretty good at replying to emails. I will also be sending out an email about receiving monthly blog newsletters when I get a chance. Please do not think I will forget you.<br /><br />Thank you all from the depths of my heart for believing in me and believing in God - that He has a mission for me. You are all in my prayers and thoughts. God bless you!<br /><br />LindaUnknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-76803561843739797312007-05-06T00:24:00.000-07:002007-05-29T07:35:32.868-07:00Looking Straight ahead at JesusI have reached the 3 week mark until May 30th when I depart for Rwanda for a long time. I am so very excited, as the Lord has had me wait a year to leave. At the same time, I must say farewell to life as I know it. I sit here in my tiny apartment with everything pulled out of the closets waiting to be sorted through and put in a box to be dispersed between the Good Will and friends. I mean everything must go. Its like my own closeout sale. Just as my things, I see that God has also done the same with my life. He has taken everything out of the closet and set it before me to sort through and take to the Good Will. I am allowed only what fits into 2 suitcases of limited weight. I no longer have a salary, but must depend on the charity and faith of others to sustain my living and service. Its an entirely different muscle than I am used to - depending on others for sustanance. Don't get me wrong. I joyfully surrender every breath of life and every painful endurace to the Lord. So, entirely...my life belongs to Him, not myself. If I focus on each piece of "stuff" I get bogged down with emotion and confused logic "should I keep or take this." So, I focus straight ahead at Jesus who illuminates the pupils of my eyes and steers the logic of my thoughts. For only through Him may I have the sight that I cannot see with my eyes or make decisions toward the unknown. I count on Him to lead the path.<br /><br />My journey is locked into a country of people who have faced repeated civil wars. Finding the key to sustainable peace is the mission of my journey. I know that education with biblical foundations is one key. Love and modeling love is the second key. The third key sits somewhere in Africa waiting for me to find it. When I have the three keys, I will be able to unlock the door that keeps Africa in a boiling room. I know that God is with me all the way. He leads because I cannot.<br /><br />Please join me in praying in the next few weeks for the final preparation for His Grand Plan.<br />Peace be with you,<br />LUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-55714215065924869162007-03-12T14:32:00.000-07:002007-04-09T09:58:33.725-07:00The Voice of TruthI have had a whole year of waiting to leave for Rwanda and the Lord has used this time purposefully to call out all the things that could distract me on my journey. Since I've walked with Jesus, each day has been another flash from the past, pulling out scenes and people from the past. All has been to remind me of my mortality, my prone to sinfulness, how nice and pretty the past seemed, but how dark it really was, and to keep my focus on the Lord.<br /><br />Oh, how bittersweet the memories of old friends and old crushes, fun times and disastrous times, things I'd do over better and things I'd like to relive. Its so bittersweet. I have lived such a long life of disconnected experiences, wondering around looking for who I am and why I exist. Now, I know exactly who I am and why I exist. And its been right under my chin the entire time.<br /><br />The world has so many temptations that seem so harmless, but once you walk out of the light, it only leads into a deeper pit of darkness. I can still see the darkness from where I came and it just stands on the edge of the light. Plato the philosopher had this vision. There is always the other side and always the decision to cross over or not. But just as Plato proposed in question, Jesus revealed in answer. The voice of Truth says that we are called out to go into the darkness and bring people to Jesus. But we are not to stay or get enveloped in it. Its seductive, but when we are strong in Jesus and we keep our gaze upon Him, we have the power to come back out as if we never entered darkness. Its a very dangerous place, but if Jesus had not descended into our dark world , we would not have been saved. This is where Jesus has been leading me - to a place of strength where I can go into the darkenss to retrieve others, but never leave the light. Its having such faith that you are so certain that the power of Jesus is within you.<br /><br />I really do miss alot of old friends that I wish would come into the light and see the beauty of God's glory. Maybe some day God will present me with the opportunity to tell them of Jesus. I guess its my own choice, but I do believe in God's timing. I do miss them. Its tough to love people who don't understand the love you've found. My heart aches for them and I pray for them. It does not dim the love I still carry in my heart for them. In fact, I think I love them more because I long for their rescue and homecoming. You see, all my life I searched within reason for the truth of things, pure honesty and enlightenment, and everything fell short until I read His Word for myself.<br /><br />It grieves me that some old friends see me as "one of them" or a "Jesus freak." Yes, Jesus Freak indeed. If that means I am totally nuts for Jesus, then okay, but I don't ascribe to conform to any list of exclusion or hypocrisy that hurts or keeps people from the light. I follow Jesus Christ who was a friend and a hero to all who crossed His path. I might not have believed if He hadn't actually sent me miracles to show me who He is. Jesus is not about a comparison of people, but about love and peace - living in harmony because we have a leader who created us in the womb of His existance and therefore is tied to each of us, even those who do not believe...yet.<br /><br />There are people waiting and grieving in the darkness, as I did. Will you cross over and pull someone out so that Jesus can have His way with them and bring them into His strength?<br /><br />I pray for all my dear friends - that some day we will meet again and we will be totally in love with each other and...with the One who loved us first.<br /><strong></strong><br /><strong>From the Casting Crowns Song, "The Voice of Turth"<br /></strong><span style="font-size:85%;">Oh what I would do to have</span> t<span style="font-size:85%;">he kind of faith it takes t</span><span style="font-size:85%;">o climb out of this boat I'm in</span> <span style="font-size:85%;">onto the crashing waves<br />To step out of my comfort zone</span> i<span style="font-size:85%;">nto the realm of the unknown where Jesus is</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">And He's holding out His hand, b</span><span style="font-size:85%;">ut the waves are calling out my name </span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">And they laugh at me</span> r<span style="font-size:85%;">eminding me of all the times I've tried before and failed</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">The waves they keep on telling me</span> t<span style="font-size:85%;">ime and time again, "Boy, you'll never win!""You'll never win!"<br /><br />But the Voice of Truth tells me a different story</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">The Voice of Truth says, "Do not be afraid!"</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">And the Voice of Truth says, "This is for My glory"</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">Out of all the voices calling out to me</span>, <span style="font-size:85%;">I will choose to listen and believe the Voice of Truth</span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7713422920429682533.post-36761693944685093272007-03-04T20:51:00.000-08:002007-03-12T14:31:11.610-07:00Blessed to Partake in the GospelAs I approach my departure date, I am humbled by the Lord daily. Today, I just couldn't stop crying and I didn't know why. Nothing had happened. It was a good day. I realized as I left the church evening service that I was already grieving my life in the US in the sense that God had me realize how truly blessed I am and how much I love my church. I was really going to miss the church family He had built around me. See, this was not always a part of my life. Five years ago I was without church, hanging onto empty relationships, very messed up and hopeless. God has truly rescued me from the darkness and placed me high upon His rock. He has built around me a source of love, comfort and hope. I am going to miss my church and the friends that God has brought into my life. However, I rejoice that I still have a life to give to the Lord in all that He calls me to. He has set a table for me in Africa with a family of children who need the hope of Jesus. I am blessed to be able to tell them of my home church family and to partake in the Gospel.<br /><br />1 Corinthians 9:22-27, "To the weak I became weak, that I might win the weak; I have become all things to all men, so that I may by all means save some. I do all things for the sake of the gospel, so that I may become a fellow partaker of it. Do you know that those who run in a race all run, but only one receives the prize? Run in such a way that you may win...Therefore, I run in such a way, as not without aim...but I discipline my body and make it slave, so that, after I have preached to others, I myself may not be disqualified."Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0