Tears welled up in Edward’s eyes and I thought he was going to start crying. He was describing how his uncle had stolen 200 acres of land from his father. As a child, he had no idea at the time how this event would radically alter his future. Being landless in Africa is to be sentenced to a life of poverty. Edward and his family quickly fell from a middle-class status to one of impoverishment and this at the hand of a relative! The tension in the room was palpable as the other Kenyan pastors described their families' struggles to maintain their land or buy land.
Doug was conducting a trial course entitled 'Understanding Advocacy & Socio-Economic Justice: The Prophetic Literature'. The social justice issue focused on was land. Comparisons were made between land issues in the OT Prophets age and in Africa today. The similarities are astounding.
In a week, we will fly to South Africa where Doug will present his proposal for the Vineyard School of Ministry to a wide spectrum of Vineyards from around Africa. The last gathering of this type had 22 nations represented. This is an awesome opportunity to influence the future of the Vineyard in Africa and we desire to hear God's heart in all of this.
Sue continues to keep the Association of Vineyard Churches finances on track. Here she is seated with Noah Gitau, the National Coordinator, Graham Silcock, the secretary, and another committee member and pastor, Robinson. Noah commented that Sue's help has "revolutionized" the Vineyard's ability to plan for the future. With several church plants in process and the Vineyard in Kenya committed to continuing this priority, financial planning is critical.
Pray for us as we roll up our sleeves. This is a very busy season in the best sense – both rewarding, as we see God touch people, and expanding as we experience God’s favor.
Love,
Sue & Doug
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