"Jesus said to them, you are ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of men, but God knows your hearts." Luke 16.15 We have been back in Mbuji Mayi for four weeks now and as usual, there have been a lot of problems and difficulties. First of all, the good things. Rev. Isesomo did a fantastic job here and made a great impression with his teaching and his pastoral ministry. We pray that God will raise up many more Congolese like him to be future leaders of the Church. Stuart’s health is reasonably good although he is still troubled with constant allergic reactions and oedema that are very irritating. He is in the process of purchasing a motorcycle, kindly funded by St. Paul’s, Jersey. Even this isn’t straightforward and takes an inordinate amount of time. We have recommenced the English services and started a morning service in French. The English language students are pleased to see Kathryn back and are flocking to the classes. Stuart has an occasional slot on a local Christian radio station. We are beginning to see the fruits of our labours in the garden. We are eating our own tomatoes and seeing other seeds grow although the heat and lack of water is taking its toll. Although we purchased this property with water and electricity, through the dishonesty of the previous owner these are now in jeopardy. We have been without water for nearly two weeks, no joke in this heat. Now we discover that the electricity is also clandestine. Apart from the inconvenience and delay, it also means extra expense. By far the worst news though was the massacre of up to fifty street children and young people who had steadily being getting more aggressive and violent. The local diamond miners who had often been the victims of their raids and assaults finally lost patience and burnt or butchered them in cold blood throwing some of the bodies into the river and others into ravines where the dogs ate them. This was our first week back. Most people seem to be glad that the nuisance had gone away but in our eyes, it merely adds to the spiritual darkness that hangs over this town. From the 18th October, all Congolese bishops will be meeting to plan and discuss the future of the province. Three new bishops need to be appointed including one for Mbuji Mayi and the Kasai province. Please pray that the right men may be chosen. We make no apologies for reminding you of the financial needs of this huge country and the poverty and misery that exists. We find it very difficult to cope with the constant requests for food, money for medicines, schooling etc. We need much wisdom and a sense of balance. Few people in the West can imagine the complete material lack which over 85% of the population experience daily. Surely as Christians, we should be asking God what our response to these needs should be? It often feels that our contribution is not even a drop in the ocean but our prayer is that we may be faithful even in the little we can do. It was great seeing friends and family, we would have liked to see more of you. Several family members are ill at this time and we would value your prayers for them. Thank you all who send messages and emails. Sorry we cannot reply individually. Please remember the BBC web-page and also the Jersey Congo Trust Fund. Yours in his name, Kathryn & Stuart.
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