MAGAZINE & PRAYER DIARY

Africa Inland Mission’s APR-JUN 2015

18THE MWANI

GOD DOESN’T GIVE UP

16BUILDING CONFIDENCE

THE IMPACT ON JOYCE’S LIFE

04WHY BOTHER

WITH BIBLE &THEOLOGY?

Christ-centred churches among all African peoples

04 WHY BOTHER: WITH BIBLE & THEOLOGY?We look at the importance of theological education in creating disciple-making disciples.

06 NEWSNews from the Institute of Bible & Theology in Tanzania and opportunities to serve.

08 APRIL 1-4Learn more about our ministry to those affected by Aids in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

10 APRIL 5-11Hear an update from the team seeking to reach the Samburu of Kenya.

12 APRIL 12-18Mission partners working in a Creative Access Nation share their experiences.

14 APRIL 19-25Ruth Box shares about mobilising in Scotland.

16 APRIL 26 - 2 MAYLearn how women in Arua, Uganda are learning to be disciple-makers.

18 MAY 3-9This week we focus on the Mwani, an unreached people group in Mozambique.

20 MAY 10-16Family Focus and prayer points from Madagascar.

22 MAY 17-23We share news about a new team going to the Digo in Kenya.

24 MAY 24-30News from the Baker family as they head back to an Indian Ocean island.

26 MAY 31 - 6 JUNEStories and prayer points from the Rendille people of Northern Kenya.

28 JUNE 7-13Learn about the outreach and evangelism work happening on the Indian Ocean Islands.

30 JUNE 14-22This week we share stories and updates from Lesotho

32 JUNE 23-30Hear from our Short Termers serving in Africa.

Looking for more prayer resources? Visit our website:

www.aimint.org/eu/prayer

04 WHY BIBLE &THEOLOGY?

To continue our series examining the ministries of our mission partners, we asked Tony Swanson, why theological training is so important.

16 THE IMPACTON JOYCE’S LIFE

Joyce is a church teacher’s wife who has attended one of the workshops that Lyn Cooke helps run. She shares about the impact they have had on her life.

18 GOD DOESN’TGIVE UP

Tim & Bron Heaton live and work in northern Mozambique amongst the unreached Mwani people. They give an update on the struggles, privileges and activities of their day to day lives.

Most of the Rendille are concentrated in the Kaisut Desert and Mount Marsabit in the Marsabit District of Kenya’s northern Eastern Province. - www.aimint.org/eu/rendille | page 26

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“We hope that the stories shared will continue to demonstrate what God longs to do for those who’ve not yet received the good news”

Courtney Bissell is serving on the Samburu TIMO team. She has recently started studying the book of Matthew with her language helper, Karale.

by Lindsey Davies

BE PATIENTTHEREFORE

Patience maybe a virtue, but it’s not always easy to obtain. The world we’re living in increasingly caters to impatience. Fast food, even faster wifi, instant messaging and easy credit, we’re not used

to waiting, and frankly, we just don’t want to. While there’s nothing wrong with wanting efficiency, we often walk a fine line between wanting things to work better and wanting instant gratification. How often does impatience mean that everything becomes about us? ‘Respond to my email, because I’m the most important thing, and I am waiting…’ But the Bible teaches us a different way. James 5:7 states ‘Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains.’

The stories and prayer requests shared here demonstrate clearly the need for Biblical patience. The team working amongst the Samburu (page 10) have been there a year now, and have already witnessed signs of God at work. But they ask for our prayers for their patience as they continue to learn the language. We share stories from mission partners working in creative access areas, amongst unreached people groups. Some, like those whom Heather works amongst, who remain resistant to the gospel (page 28), some for whom we have been praying for years and yet see little fruit. James (page 32) shares news from Madagascar, of Christians who remain bound by ancestor worship. Discipleship is not instant, which can be hard to understand in our instant world.

Perhaps some of you reading Connect, will also feel those pangs of impatience, the frustration that you’ve prayed for a people group for years, and yet there is still no church amongst them. We hope that you’re not discouraged, that the stories shared of lives transformed by the gospel will continue to demonstrate what God longs to do for those who’ve not yet received the good news. Most of all, we hope that this issue of Connect will encourage you to keep praying, to keep supporting and to fervently long for the day when ‘at the name of Jesus, every knee should bow…’ Philippians 2:10

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AIM’s vision to see Christ-centred churches amongst all African peoples, is firmly based in our theological understanding of the God whom we seek to serve. He is a God who loves the world, so much that he sent his only son to seek and save the lost.

Theology therefore, is crucial to the health, survival and direction of church and mission.

RELEVANT TO THE CHANGING NEEDS

Like many others, my call to mission developed over many years and can’t be pinned to a particular date. I originally studied agricultural economics with the idea that it may be of use in countries where much of the population are involved in subsistence agriculture. I spent ten years pastoring churches in the UK (Fellowship of Independent Evangelical Churches) and then in Tanzania which, together with further studies at All Nations Christian College in Hertfordshire led me into a particular branch of theological education.

For the last ten years I have been coordinating an Africa Inland Church Tanzania (AICT) programme, grandly called ‘The Institute of Bible and Ministry’. It is a continuing education programme of around 140 pastors and their wives who are already involved in ministry and serving around 6000 church members. It is proudly practical, distinctly Biblical and hopefully relevant to the changing needs of the Tanzanian church in the 21st century. The strapline of the Institute is to ‘Enable, Mobilise and Inspire’ the pastors and evangelists of the AICT to a close vibrant relationship with God and greater effectiveness in ministry.

During three to five day retreats and seminars, the pastors are engaged in various curricula including: Biblical studies, spiritual formation, missiology and pastoral theology. Much time is given to prayer and discussion concerning on-going pastoral challenges. In this respect, the

by Tony Swanson

WHY BOTHER:WITH BIBLE &THEOLOGY?

TONY & CATHSWANSON

Tony & Cath live and work in Morogoro, Tanzania. Tony

coordinates the Institute of Bible & Ministry at the Sanga Sanga Retreat Centre, under the authority of the Africa Inland Church - ‘enabling, mobilising and inspiring’ church leadership. Cath is Child Safety Officer for AIM. Tony is also Unit leader for Tanzania East.

To continue our series examining the ministries of our mission partners, we asked Tony Swanson, why theological training is so important.

CRUCIALLY IMPORTANT

If we take it that theology concerns an enquiry into the very nature of God’s

revealed self, together with our subsequent questions, opinions and actions resulting from this revelation, then theology is at the heart of what it means to be a follower of Christ.

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Institute provides a forum for real-time theological discussion and debate, and has the potential of impacting the whole church body in the following week! The energy and enthusiasm ‘to do theology’ is demonstrated by excellent attendance and local commitment through financial programme support.

URGENT PRAYER FOR TANZANIA

Currently, urgent prayer is being sought for the whole country of Tanzania, as discussions are being tabled in parliament concerning the recognition and instigation of Sharia law courts. The Institute has over the last year run a number of courses raising awareness and understanding amongst the pastors concerning this growing threat. I believe the Institute has a strategic role to play in helping mobilise the local AICT to meet these challenges. In partnership with AIM the Institute acts as a catalyst to see an ever growing number of Christ-centred Tanzanian churches engaging with unreached Muslim Tanzanians.

“It is proudly practical, distinctly Biblical and hopefully relevant to the changing needs of the Tanzanian church in the 21st century.”

To find out more about opportunities to equip the African Church with good theological and biblical training, visit:

eu.aimint.org/go/theology

IT’S HELPED ME KNOW HOWTO EXPLAIN MY FAITH

Deborah Sweya & her husband John are both pastors in Tanzania. Deborah recently attended a seminar at the Institute of Bible & Ministry. Here she shares about how it has helped her.

‘These seminars have helped me by building up my ability in my area of work, especially when I am managing various matters in the office. They have

built up my self-confidence. In addition, these seminars have helped me to understand more about the different environments of servants of God, especially those who are in missionary areas on the coast in Tanzania.

‘It has been very beneficial to build our ability to explain our faith, so we can discuss God with people with different beliefs in the various societies where we are serving. It has been good to learn methods that we can use in reaching a society with different cultures and beliefs.

‘Through my time at the Institue, God has reminded me to pray without ceasing for the Lord’s work, to witness to people the news of Jesus Christ, to recognise and respect the traditions and cultures of people and to be careful when reaching them with the news of Jesus. The Word of God has reminded me and teaches me methods which I can use to reach Muslims. When I want to reach people with the gospel I should first understand them and where they are in their culture.’

“It has been very beneficial to build our ability to explain our faith, so we can discuss God with people with different beliefs…”

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AFRICA BASED SUPPORT

AIM’s original call was to go to the ‘Inlands’ of Africa; to the places that hadn’t been reached with the gospel and 120 years

later, that call remains the same. But one essential area of ministry that often gets overlooked in reaching the unreached is that of support.

Africa Based Support (ABS), located in Nairobi, Kenya, is a ministry of AIM. It exists to coordinate and provide essential support services to enhance the ministries of missionaries from

AIM and several other like-minded organisations. Some of the support services include Aviation, Counselling, Hospitality and Media & Technology services.

There are currently a number of urgent vacancies for pilots and mechanics, whose expertise allows mission partners to more easily reach people like the Lopit in South Sudan or the Rendille in Kenya. Please pray for these positions to be filled and think about whether you could go, or share with someone you think might be able to help.

In an area representing eight countries and over eight million square kilometres, spanning the homelands of over 250 million people, AIM AIR is a vehicle to help take the Great Commission to the ends of the earth.

If you want more information, contact Kathryn at personneladmin.eu@aimint.org

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The Institute of Bible & Ministry in Tanzania was originally a programme of seminars in rented rooms, but now has its home at the ever-growing site at Sanga Sanga.

A STRATEGIC PLATFORM

The development at Sanga Sanga is designed to provide a strategic

platform to encourage and support Tanzanian pastors and evangelists. The plan is that the facilities will provide a place where they can engage with indigenous theological, cultural and development issues that confront them.

AIM mission partner, Matt Dixon from St David’s, Moreton-in-Marsh, is the Construction

Manager and assists in the development of the Institute’s plans, including the construction of a conference hall, seminar room and library facilities, 100 bed accommodation, workshop, demonstration farm and gift and coffee shop.

WHAT’S HAPPENED SO FAR?The first task was to create

easy entry and provide access to water via water wells and a water storage tower. After that, a house for the caretaker, was constructed from shipping containers, then storage facilities, office, workshop and a temporary classroom were built. Then, work began in earnest on the retreat house which has been built from locally burnt brick. The house accommodates 13 in en-suite twin-bedded rooms. The surrounding area has also been developed into camping facilities, as a means of generating revenue for the Institute, as well as meeting the

needs of passing travellers.All of this, plus establishing

a reliable electricity source, was achieved by January 2015. The team at the Institute are now working on the next phase, the development of the conference hall and offices; this will be a single storey building with a separate canteen with car parking outside. In addition a gift and coffee shop and toilet facilities will be constructed near the entrance to the site.

MUCH TO DOThe Dixons share; ‘Matt has

much to do in way of brooding over plans and contractors’ tenders and ‘small’ matters like ensuring the foundations for the 20x40m conference centre are more than sufficient to last the years in African sun and torrential rains. The annual pastors seminar for the Institute of Bible and Ministry was hosted at Sanga Sanga recently, with a record of 80 delegates. The pump house could barely hold all these people highlighting the need for the conference centre.’

For updates on the progress of construction, visit the Dixons’ website: mattamytanzania.blogspot.co.uk

25 APRILSOUTH OF ENGLAND CONFERENCE

St Patrick’s, Wallington

30 MAYOAK HALL, LONDON

Local Church Global Vision Conference

19-21 JUNEBULSTRODE, BUCKS

GOFest mission focused festival

26 SEPTMANCHESTERAIM Into Africa? - exploring ministry in Africa

DATES FOR YOURDIARY

NEWS: SANGA SANGADEVELOPMENT

For the latest information on each of these events, see our weekly email, facebook or website: eu.aimint.org

Annemarie Boks from the Netherlands serves in Adi, Congo working with the local church to support those living with Aids.

THE PROGRAMME

The Aids Awareness Programme started in 1999 when

CECA(Communauté Evangélique au Centre de l’Afrique) leaders realised that Aids was prevalent in the church. Since then the programme has developed through sensitisation programmes, development of teaching materials, work with church leaders and the involvement of medical personnel. Now, medical aspects will be integrated into the medical ministry of CECA (for example, testing for HIV and the treatment of people living with HIV) and home based care, and care for orphans, will be handed over to the local churches.

A COMMUNITY OF ACCEPTANCE

Annemarie Boks started working with the programme in 2002 when it was facing multiple problems, lack of funding being one of them. However God was faithful and between 2007-2010 the programme made huge

leaps forward: staff members organised ‘Support and Action Groups’ in local churches where volunteers were taught how to care for people living with HIV and how to teach about HIV and Aids. People living with HIV encouraged each other in support groups, lessons about HIV were broadcast over the local radio, given through films, at teaching sessions in the community, in schools and in churches. Awareness about HIV grew and stigma lessened. Powerfully, when teaching about HIV and Aids the love of God was declared and a community of acceptance and of care grew in response.

In January 2014 the hospital in Adi started giving antiretroviral drug (ARV) treatment to people living with HIV, following a push by the Aids Awareness Programme that meant nationally accredited training. Now 41 people receive ARV at Adi hospital and more are examined and seen regularly.

RECENTLYARRIVED

Caroline Bell has recently arrived in Adi and is living with Annemarie. She will be working as a doctor in the local hospital. So how is it going so far?

I started in the hospital last week working alongside the other doctors.

The hospital is fairly small. It has a maternity department, paediatric, surgery and medicine wards, an outpatient department and small laboratory. There is an ultrasound machine but no X-ray. Some of the best things about life in Adi so far have been making new friends, Sunday mornings and French lessons with Onzi, my language helper.

MINISTRY FOCUS:HEALTHCARE

April 1-4

“…when teaching about HIV & Aids the love of God was declared…”

Read more about Caroline:

eu.aimint.org/carolineApril2015

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Margaret Badaru is HIV positive and works alongside Annemarie educating and teaching in the Aids Awareness Programme. She shares her story:

SEEN AS LIVING DEAD

I was born in a polygamous family, and have four sisters and two brothers; two have

died. In 2003 I started studying at the Nursing School in Adi, but my health deteriorated. It was I who asked for an HIV test, but the result came back negative twice. Because I kept being sick, one of my sisters, who lived in Arua (Uganda) suggested I went there to do the test. It turned out to be positive. Although it was I who wanted the test, it was difficult to accept the result and to have to start taking antiretrovirals (ARV). I was only 23 years old, and there was still a lot of stigma surrounding HIV. Being infected with HIV meant to be

‘living dead’ already. Even my brothers and sisters isolated me. In the end I moved back in with my mother in Adi. She received me with love and joy, but, although living only 30 metres from the church, I was isolated and stayed at home the whole time.

A CHANNEL OF HOPEEventually I joined a support

group for people living with Aids and decided try and make a difference for others in my situation. I finished my studies in ‘Information, Education and Communication’ at ISPASC (Superior Pan African Institute of Community Health) in 2012. This wasn’t easy; my family tried to discourage my mother from letting me study, saying that the money could better be kept for my funeral. I also had to go to Arua for my ARV, a long way away. When working on my dissertation I stopped taking ARV for four months. I was anxious a lot during that time, because I was struggling to pay the school fees. I expected to have to redo the year, but God provided. My health deteriorated though and during the graduation celebration I became sick and was hospitalised.

Now my health is slowly improving. I live with my mother in Adi and am accepted in the community. I participate in church activities and am working with Annemarie in the Aids Awareness Programme. We prepare workshops for church leaders and teach at church conferences. I am eager to do more training to enable me to be a channel of hope and to teach church leaders as well.

1 APRIL | WEDNESDAYPray for the integration of

the Aids Awareness Programme into hospitals; pray that the future assistance and financial support for the treatment programme will be given as already promised. Pray also that church leaders will accept their responsibilities to care for people living with HIV and for orphans.

2 APRIL | THURSDAYGive thanks for the video

being produced by Laura Hickman (Short Term USA) about the Aids Awareness Programme. Pray for her editing work and subtitling skills as she translates it into English and Dutch. Pray for Laura as she adjusts back to life in USA.

3 APRIL | FRIDAYPray for Caroline Bell

(Short Term UK) in her work as a doctor at Adi hospital. Pray for her collaboration with the staff, and for her as she prepares a small booklet about the work of a hospital in Africa. Pray for Annemarie and her involvement in all these things.

4 APRIL | SATURDAYPray for Margaret Badaru

that her health will be stabilised on antiretroviral (ARV) drugs and that she can continue to be a powerful witness as part of the Aids Awareness Programme. Give thanks for the good working relationship between Margaret and Annemarie.

WEEKLYFOCUS

Pray for the preparation of workshops for

church leaders and their organisation in the church district of Adi. Pray that after the workshops take place that we will find the finances to organise them in the other church districts as well.

MEET MARGARET BADARU

See People & Places p15For the index of mission partners working in healthcare.

www.aimint.org/eu/pandp

PEOPLE FOCUS:THE SAMBURU

April 5-11

Frazer Mayhew is part of a multinational Training in Ministry Outreach (TIMO) team, working amongst the unreached Samburu people of Northern Kenya. They have been there a year now. So how has it gone?

WHO DO YOU SAY I AM?

Once Jesus asked his disciples who people said he was. If we were

to do a similar questionnaire with the Samburu people, we would usually get the answer, ‘The child of God.’ ‘Great,’ you’re thinking, ‘They’ve got it.’ But probe a little more, dig a little deeper and you realise that this is the only thing they know about him. They don’t know why he came to earth. They don’t know why he died and they really don’t know how they can have a restored relationship with the Living God. This is simultaneously tragic and exciting. Tragic, because, how can it be 2015 and people still have no idea about Jesus? Exciting, because God has put a hunger in their hearts for him and we have the privilege of sharing it with them.

SHARING SOMETHING OF CHRIST

It is very early days for us, despite being here nearly a year. We are still in the swampy mire known as language and culture learning, still trying to get to know our neighbours, listen to them and find out their struggles and hopes for life. But in the midst of all this we have also had many opportunities to share something of the life of Christ. We are blessed to have resources in Samburu, especially Luke’s gospel, which has enabled us to bring God’s Word to the people. We’ve shown the ‘Jesus’ film several times in our area to different people which has excited them and helped them to remember some of the events of Jesus’ life. On Sunday mornings, a group of women and children gather under a shady tree to sing songs, pray and hear one of our team read from the Bible and explain it to them. We’ve run a couple of Holiday Bible Clubs with the children. But often it is in the personal encounters that we can share Jesus. A

group of children sit on our porch and listen as we read a story. A woman asks her friend on the team what God thinks about certain practices. A man asks a question to one of us about the origin of evil. These are examples of countless opportunities to share little bits of good news to people who are hungry to know.

‘But what about you? Who do you say I am?’ Jesus asks his disciples. It is our hope and prayer that along with Peter, the Samburu will be able to say, ‘You are the Christ, the son of the Living God’ to understand it, embrace it and give their whole lives to him.

“…we have also had many opportunities to share something of the life of Christ.”

The team have run a couple of Holiday Bible Clubs for the Samburu children.

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WEEKLY FOCUS

How can we communicate

the good news about Jesus to the Samburu? Pray that God will work in us, making us more like him and that the testimony of our lives and the words of our mouth will bear fruit in God’s kingdom here in the Samburu district.

GOD HAS BEEN WORKING

Joshua Mok, from the Samburu TIMO team, shares how God has been working in the lives of their neighbours, the Lenkoyo family.

Over the past 10 months, we have seen how God has been working in the lives of our neighbours,

the Lenkoyo family. We have got to know them really well, especially the children who visit our home every day. Many of them attended our Holiday Bible Club in August.

We praise God for the way he softened the heart of the husband. He knew that we owned a children’s Bible in the Samburu language and approached us with a genuine interest to hear these stories since he cannot read. Despite our broken Samburu proficiency, he was a great listener who repeated our sentences as an indication that he understood the stories. We thank God for the amazing privilege to read through the entire children’s Bible with him. Pray with us that this seed would bear fruit some day. Pray for us as we plan to engage in more storytelling within our community.

Read and see more pictures online from the Samburu TIMO team:

eu.aimint.org/samburuapril2015

5 APRIL | SUNDAYIt is a privilege to

live among the Samburu people in this area. We praise God for keeping the door open despite several problems. Pray that we as a united team will be a strong witness to the gospel of Jesus Christ.

6 APRIL | MONDAYIn Samburu

culture information is transmitted orally, and only a very few people are literate. Therefore speaking their language, hearing their stories and sharing our own is of utmost importance. Pray for continued progress and diligence in language learning.

7 APRIL | TUESDAYThe gospel of

Luke and the gospel of Matthew have been published in Samburu. Pray that as people hear God’s Words from Luke at our Sunday services, the Holy Spirit will enable them to understand. Pray for ways to reach out to the men and moran (warriors) who do not attend.

8 APRIL WEDNESDAY

The Samburu have a very limited concept of sin. Some old people may say that they have never sinned. Pray that many will understand that their sin separates them from God and that they are in need of a Saviour.

9 APRIL THURSDAY

We showed the Jesus Film in Lchakwai at Christmas, and have

since shown it in Raragon and Moru. Team Members have shared it in several homes as well. Pray that the Samburu will desire to know more about Jesus and commit to following him.

1O APRIL | FRIDAYWe have been

thinking of telling Bible stories in various homes. There are some oral and written resources and pictures. Pray that this way of communicating the good news may bear fruit.

11 APRIL SATURDAY

Pray that each of us will grow in our love for God. Pray that the Holy Spirit will enable us, with our limited vocabulary, to explain about the God we know and love. Pray for endurance and encouragement in the hard times.

The team have also been able to show the ‘Jesus’ film several times in their area.

Knowing that at any moment you could be asked to leave the country you’re working in, means that mission partners have to be creative in how they share Jesus. One AIM mission partner working in North Africa shares how they seek to always have Jesus Christ on their lips.

DARKNESS IN A COLOURFUL PLACE

Many think of this part of the world as a dark, hard place to be…

desert, camels and heat! In fact our country is colourful, bright, vibrant, warm and friendly. People here are incredibly hospitable, and it’s not unusual to be invited to someone’s home within the first week of arrival.

But to deny that there is a darkness would be false. People are blinded to the truth, bound by rituals that control their lives and culture in order to gain favour with Allah. Every day we hear the call to prayer and are reminded that they are lost – that’s why we are here!

GETTING CREATIVETo be here, well, we’ve had

to get creative! We use the skills and experience that the Father has given us and apply that to life here. Some workers run businesses, others are involved in charitable endeavours. Whatever you do for your ‘job’ at home, with a bit of modification you could probably do here.

Whatever role we have, we aim to be as intentional as possible – to have the name of Jesus Christ on our lips at all times. Whether it is buying bread for breakfast, meeting with a client to discuss business, dropping off children at school, or drinking tea with a friend, we want to be ready to share the truth.

It is very normal to talk to people about religion. We try to make a point very early on in our relationships with people to ensure they know we are God-fearing people. We don’t want there to be any surprises later on! So, talking about God can be quite easy – talking about Jesus however, is more difficult.

TALKING ABOUT JESUSAs such, we consciously

think about everyday situations and consider how we can introduce spiritual truths. For example: on a beautiful sunny day we might say: ‘Isn’t God good to have given us a beautiful day? It’s like a gift from him.’ When buying from a busy shop owner we could say: ‘I can see God is providing you with good business. Did you know that the Bible speaks of God being our provider?’ With anyone – even in a taxi: ‘I was reading in God’s Word this morning and God showed me…’ When someone shares a problem: ‘Could I pray for you right now?’

Conversations about Jesus though, are not without risk. We know that at any moment we could be asked to leave the country – with little or no opportunity to pack or say goodbye. We know that we are ‘observed’ and our activities are monitored. So we are careful with wording, who we meet with and use ‘common sense’, but at the end of the day we serve a sovereign God.

MINISTRY FOCUS: CREATIVE ACCESS

April 12-18

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12 APRIL | SUNDAY Please pray for the

multiplication of believers. We long to see new believers boldly proclaim the truth they have received so that others will join them and then also pass on the message.

13 APRIL | MONDAYThe local body of

the church is small, so please ask our Father to raise up bold, pastorally minded, outward looking leadership. Please pray for strong leadership across the church in our region.

14 APRIL | TUESDAY Most women are

undervalued in our region, many are marginalized through life circumstances. Ask that the Father would restore their honour and draw them to himself.

15 APRIL WEDNESDAY

God reveals himself through dreams and visions here. We often hear stories of visions of “a man dressed all in white”. Ask that Jesus would be recognised and glorified. Many workers in the region are reporting softening of hearts and encouraging conversations with friends, neighbours, and business colleagues indicating a genuine seeking for truth

16 APRIL THURSDAY

The main staple for many across the region is bread and yet, it does nothing to fill their hunger or satisfy their souls. As they strive to please God through rituals, ask that our Father alone would be known as the provider of the bread of life, the true giver and sustainer of life.

17 APRIL | FRIDAY Five times a day the

call to prayer rings out across cities and villages. Ask Father to touch hearts and minds as many literally kneel down.

18 APRIL | SATURDAY Ask that workers

would be guided to those whom the Father is leading to himself and that we would be granted wisdom as we seek to introduce them to our Saviour. Among the worker community, there is an increasing sense that we need to commit to earnest prayer, seeking guidance in every relationship and conversation.

WEEKLY FOCUS

There is a growing anticipation and

expectation this year as we wait upon the Lord and prayerfully ask him to move across North Africa. Would you join us and many around the world in praying specifically for the nations across North Africa?

Download a prayer sheet to help you pray for those in closed areas:

aimint.org/eu/creativeaccess

STRANGERS IN ASTRANGE LAND

People here are amazingly friendly and hospitable. They appreciate very much

when we make efforts to learn their language and are eager to help us learn about their culture. But no matter how much language we learn or cultural adaptation we do, we will always be foreigners. This is not necessarily a negative thing as being a foreigner allows us freedoms for sharing about Jesus that perhaps locals wouldn’t have. We are also able to capitalise on the ‘curiosity’ factor of those who want to meet us because we are from abroad. Even this can open doors for sharing the good news. Our status however, can put others at risk. There are a handful of believers here, and some workers try and meet with them periodically to encourage them to gather together. In doing this though, workers have to be so careful, our movements are monitored and we could unwittingly highlight the presence of believers to the government. There is already a fear of informants which discourages Christians from gathering together. Often the result of that though, is a lack of fellowship and feelings of isolation. Please pray for trust and boldness for them and for us.

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MOBILISING MISSION April 19-25

Ruth Box shares with us what it’s like being an AIM Mobiliser in Scotland and the role she plays in helping churches send mission partners to Africa.

SEASONS AND SHOWERS

It’s January, the snow is thick on the ground and I’m taking some time out

from a youth leaders’ training conference in Aviemore to write this article. By the time you read this, spring will have

sprung and I will be in the midst of preparing a group of Edinburgh students for their summer mission trip to Madagascar. Being a Mobiliser is very much an experience of seasons and showers. It is a role that involves lots of thinking and planning ahead, whilst fulfilling day to day commitments to speak at events, have conversations with enquirers and be available for the pastoral needs of missionaries on the field. There

are seasons of frenzied activity, such as in the run up to the Scottish Conference in March and (fewer!) seasons of quiet, like December, where one has the chance to think and

19 APRIL SUNDAY

Please uphold our entire mobilising region team as they seek to challenge Americans toward mission and to serve personnel on the field and on home-assignment. Praise God for the headquarters team and the many ways they support our goal of Christ-centred churches among all African peoples.

20 APRIL MONDAY

Pray for wisdom for U.S. Director Wade Ewing as he leads the U.S. team, and for the various departments as they serve AIM candidates, personnel serving in Africa, and prayer and financial partners. Pray that staff effectiveness, efficiency and unity would be blessing to all who pass through the office.

21 APRIL TUESDAY

Pray for mobilisers serving in different regions of the United States. Pray for safety over many miles travelled, for divine appointments as they visit churches and campuses, and for creativity as they seek out new ways to engage those seeking to serve cross-culturally in Africa.

22 APRIL WEDNESDAY

Praise God for the men and women from the United States who are stepping forward to serve him in Africa. Pray for them in this incredible journey, which often entails quitting jobs, selling homes, saying difficult goodbyes to family and friends, and gathering a team of prayer and financial supporters.

“I cannot stress enough the privilege it is to be doing this each day…”

HELPING SENDSHEONA

In the autumn of 2012, whilst on a short term mission trip in Kenya I felt

God leading me to AIM. So, when I got home I ‘googled’ AIM and filled in the contact form on the website. Very quickly I received a response letting me know that the Scottish mobiliser would contact me, “if that was ok with me?” “Help, what am I signing up for?” was my immediate reaction! Thankfully I said yes, and then got an email from Ruth asking if I would like to meet for a coffee and a chat. I was very busy (as is Ruth), and making every excuse not to meet up. Time wore on, Ruth was very patient, but then she had a trip to Africa, it was Christmas and still we hadn’t met!

Ruth then suggested I attend the Scottish Conference. I had just been on holiday,

so (as a shift worker), I felt I could only go if it fell on my day off, but surprise surprise, I was free. When the day came I was unwell, but felt I should go, went, and was pleasantly surprised. The Scottish conference is a very friendly, non-threatening day, I knew no-one, but went home encouraged, excited and scared, having made friends who have since been a huge encouragement.

After the conference Ruth encouraged me to go to AIM’s ‘Into Africa?’ conference in Glasgow. Again it was on a Saturday so I gave her the same reply... and again it fell on my day off.

After that day, I applied for ‘long term’ service with AIM. Throughout Ruth has been extremely encouraging and helpful. She supported me through the lengthy application process, patiently answering my questions. Having her here on ‘home turf’ in Scotland is helpful both to sending churches and missionaries as we share the journey from enquiry to starting an assignment.

23 APRIL THURSDAY

Pray that God would use our Short Term programme to ignite a passion for mission in the hearts and minds of those who serve. Pray for life-changing experiences as they serve in a wide range of ministries – both as individuals and in teams. Pray that many will return to serve Long Term.

24 APRIL FRIDAY

As we seek to have a more strategic role in reaching African Diaspora, pray that God would open doors in the United States for teams to serve in communities with large African populations. Pray that God would be preparing hearts of Africans living in the U.S. to receive the good news.

25 APRIL SATURDAY

Praise God for the many donors and prayer supporters who uphold the ministries of U.S. personnel serving in Africa. Pray that God would bless them and give them insights into how their role as supporters impacts men and women for eternity.

plan a little for the year ahead. Then there are the showers –real showers of blessing, when new enquirers apply to serve long-term, or a flurry of students look for short-term opportunities. There are also occasional storms, when the volume of work feels like waves crashing relentlessly over my sea wall threatening to swamp me.

THE PRIVILEGE TO SERVEWhat do I think about this?

What springs to mind most often is to marvel that God has called, permitted and equipped me to serve in my role with AIM. I cannot stress enough the privilege it is to be doing this each day, and to have such an important part to play in the journey that God calls some of his people to travel. I so very much value your prayers as I serve God through AIM in Scotland, the financial support of those whom God calls to stand with me in this way and the practical help that so many volunteers, friends and family provide on a day to day basis. Thank you all so much!

WEEKLY FOCUS

This week we’re praying for the

U.S. mobilising region in Peachtree City, Georgia. There, about 30 men and women serve to mobilise new personnel and to provide vital administrative support to those serving in Africa. A team of seven mobilisers serve in different regions of the United States, working with prospective candidates as they seek their role in the Great Commission.

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Lyn Cooke lives in Arua, north west Uganda. She shares with us about her ministry amongst women, opportunities that have opened up and the positive impact of the workshops she helps run.

SECOND CLASS CITIZENS

I work with Alice, a Ugandan pastor at Madi West Nile diocese in the women’s

office. We travel around the diocese meeting and teaching the women. Many of the women feel like second class citizens and are unable to express themselves. Things are gradually changing in some areas but there is still the feeling that the girl child should be at home helping and the boy child should be the one educated.

One of the things we do is train church teachers and pastors’ wives. Many of them have been at home until they married and have not had any training at all. They see their role only as looking after their husband and children.

We seek to show them that God has called them to work in partnership with their husbands and that there are ways in which they can be used to help their congregation and community.

A WONDERFUL PRIVILEGEWe regularly arrange

workshops at the archdeaconries. Attendance is very positive and we often have around 100 ladies, many who have walked for many hours to get there. Some of the things we teach are how to lead a prayer meeting and Bible study with the ladies of their church, how to be a good leader, and parenting. We do a follow up later to see how things are going and to answer any question or deal with any problems they may have encountered.

The Ugandan Christian University runs a degree course for pastors. Alongside this they run a course for the wives. I teach Old and New Testament studies to the wives once a week. This has been a

April 26 - May 2

MINISTRY FOCUS:WOMEN’S MINISTRY

MEET JOYCEJoyce is a church teacher’s wife who has attended one of the workshops that Lyn helps run. Here she shares about the impact they have had on her life.

‘I wanted to share my appreciation of the workshops for church

teachers’ wives because they have opened our eyes to see how God can use us. The topic of counselling was new to us. We never thought that we were capable of doing anything like this. I now feel confident to chat and help people in need particularly when they come to the door and my husband is not around. This will enable me to help the people in my community and parish when needed particularly to prepare young people for marriage and girls for motherhood. Before attending these workshops I feared getting involved in ministry and I just saw myself as keeping home and caring for the children. I did not see myself in partnership with my husband or that God had called me as well. In my home I did not know about Christian parenting properly. I actually gambled a lot and this means that some of my children have not been able to attend school. I wish I had been challenged earlier about these things but I know God is able to change me now.’

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wonderful privilege for me as I see the ladies grow in confidence and have a better understanding of God’s Word. It is two way, as they are also teaching me a lot about culture and how they cope looking after the family while studying, which is a new experience for many of them.

About eighteen months ago God opened up an opportunity for us to do an Alpha course at the local ladies’ prison. Our visits have continued weekly and we now go and share with the ladies and pray with them.

26 APRIL | SUNDAYPlease pray for the

ladies at the prison that they will understand more that God wants to be their friend and draw close at this difficult time. Pray that they will understand that he can change their lives if they will look to him.

27 APRIL | MONDAYLearning, for many

of the ladies we work with at the university, is a new experience. Give thanks that they have responded so well and are now excited to learn more. Pray also that God will help them as they cope with a new environment.

28 APRIL | TUESDAYGive thanks that

Alice and I work well together and have become good friends. Pray for health and safety for both of us as we travel around the diocese often on unmade roads. Pray for wisdom as we chose the topics to teach.

29 APRIL WEDNESDAY

Pray for the ladies who attend the workshops that they will come with open hearts and ready to make changes in their lives and in the parishes. Pray that their homes will be a good witness to God’s love and care.

30 APRIL | THURSDAYThank God for

enabling me to build good relationships with the ladies and ask that he will continue to give me a love for each one of them. Above all may Christ be the centre of my ministry and life.

1 MAY | FRIDAYOnce a month I meet

with two Ugandan ladies for prayer and Bible study. Thank God that he brought these two ladies into my life when I was asking him to give me two Ugandan ladies whom I could build a deeper relationship with and pray openly with.

2 MAY | SATURDAYThere are many babies

and young children in the prison. This is not a good start for their young lives. They are in a confined space when they should be out running around in the open. Please pray that God will protect them from any harm and keep them healthy.

WEEKLYFOCUS

There is a high rate of teenage pregnancy

and defilement in the diocese. This year Alice and I are starting a new programme in schools for young girls dealing with relationships and incorporating a Bible Study. Please pray for wisdom and that it will be effective in making a change.

“…we often have around 100 ladies. many who have walked for many hours to get there.”

“This has been a wonderful privilege for me as I see the ladies grow in confidence…”

See People & Places p15For the index of mission partners working in women’s ministry.

www.aimint.org/eu/pandp

One of the things the workshops do is to help women lead Bible studies with the ladies of their church.

Tim & Bron Heaton live and work in northern Mozambique amongst the unreached Mwani people. They give this update on the struggles, privileges and activities of their day to day lives amongst the Mwani.

GOD DOESN’T GIVE UP

At night the whir of generators can be heard in one or two homes

but otherwise Pemba is silent and dark. The rains, while they bring the promise of new crops, can also cause havoc and devastation. Last year we experienced a four day cyclone and this year the floods brought

down four bridges and ten major electricity pylons cutting the electricity off from the north of the country. It is a reminder once again of the physical poverty and lack of decent infrastructure in this country but also of the lack of hope and light of God that the people around us have. Our family have been in northern Mozambique for ten years now learning the language and

May 3-9

“…there seems at times almost a stubborn refusal to come out of the darkness.”

Abdala is one of two strong Mwani believers in Pemba who meet regulary to pray.

PEOPLE FOCUS: THE MWANI

3 MAY | SUNDAYIn Pemba there are

currently two strong Mwani believers who meet regularly to pray (there have been others but they no longer join to meet). Neither their wives nor families have supported them in their decision to follow Jesus and it is sometimes a lonely road. Abdala and Shikito need prayer to remain steadfast in their faith and for courage to share the good news with others.

4 MAY | MONDAYPray for the Pemba

Mwani Team of six AIM missionaries who are reaching their neighbours through Bible storying, English lessons, computer classes and friendship. Pray for divine opportunities and that God leads us to people open to the gospel.

5 MAY | TUESDAYRadio Nuru, based

in Macomia, has been on air for five years now

allowing many Mwani in remote villages and towns along the coast to hear worship and Bible stories in their own language. Pray for the current radio presenters to grow in their faith and vision and for more missionaries to join them.

6 MAY WEDNESDAY

A Kenyan missionary couple in Mocimboa have been teaching a mission course to

believers from the local churches to encourage them to reach the unreached people groups around them including the Makwe and Mwani. A few have already been sent out; pray for more Mozambican missionaries.

7 MAY | THURSDAYDespite the

arrival of large gas companies the north of Mozambique still has some of the

culture of the Mwani who fish up and down the coast. The fruit among this people group has been slim and there seems at times almost a stubborn refusal to come out of the darkness. But God doesn’t give up!

HOLDING UP THE POTLast year we were joined in

Pemba by two AIM families, one couple from Canada and one American family with three kids. The Mwani have a riddle about a mother who has three children; if one leaves everyone goes hungry. It refers to the three large stones they use underneath their cooking pots – take one away and the pot falls over hence no food! We have come to appreciate the value of not being a single stone but of having teammates around us to also hold up the cooking pot and allow God’s fire to burn. This is the second Mwani team we have

had the privilege of being part of and it has been exciting, as leaders, to see them overcome the struggles and connect with the Mwani community.

EACH DAY’S AN ADVENTUREThere is no typical day but

language learning has been the main focus of the first year and now, as we start the second year, members have been involved in a variety of activities such as Bible-storying, teaching English and computer classes, helping neighbours erect canopies to prepare for weddings, attending funerals and generally being involved in the lives of the neighbourhood. Tim leads not only the Mwani team but also takes responsibility for the Unit here in Northern Mozambique and it has been a question of juggling balls to deal with all the finance, administration and pastoral support needed for the different members. Each day is an adventure here and it is only through the grace of him who is able that we make it through and we trust he will bring the work with the Mwani to completion in his time.

worst poverty and infrastructure in the country. The recent electricity crisis (ten major pylons were brought down by the floods) and the rise in food prices (four broken bridges meant less goods being transported up north) takes its toll on those already struggling. Pray for God’s mercy and help.

8 MAY | FRIDAYPray for Tim, as

Unit Leader for the

North, for wisdom and strength to encourage and support the AIM missionaries in Pemba, Macomia and Nampula.

9 MAY | SATURDAYPray for the fruit

from the Bible teaching ministries in Nampula both at the Bible school, INTENA, and informal teaching through TEE (Theological Education by Extension), that more leaders would be equipped and sent out to share the good news.

WEEKLY FOCUS

Pray for the Mwani people,

that their eyes would be opened to the wonderful joy of God’s grace through Jesus. Pray for growth among the many new believers in Quissanga and the few on Ibo island, that the hunger for God’s Spirit would spread up and down the coast.

ALONGTHE BEACH

The Mwani whose lives are tied to

fishing and the ocean, live along the coast of northern Mozambique. Although fiercely Islamic in name, the Mwani’s worldview is strongly influenced by the animistic world of ancestors and the use of mediums such as witchdoctors. Witchdoctors are often paid to protect the boundaries of the rice paddy with beads, bottles, cloths and bones.

Divorce is common and many women have been married several times, so family units are difficult to discern. There is so much distrust between husbands and wives and the culture does not encourage faithfulness or open communication. Our oldest Mwani believer, Shikito, is facing serious marriage difficulties and Tim has been counselling him. Please pray with us, that God may restore peace and love to them.

Download a prayer sheet:

aimint.org/eu/mwani

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VOICE OF THE GOODNEWS RADIO STATION

Stella is a presenter at the Voice of the Good News Radio station in Mandritsara, part of the Good News Hospital project.

Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world, with 90% of people living on less than £1.50 per

day. In addition, a recent cyclone has destroyed houses, roads and rice crops whilst huge swathes of forest are burnt down for grazing land, or to appeal to ancestral spirits. Sickness and diseases such as malaria and plague are on the increase, and swarms of locusts are eating up whole fields of crops. Many people are in desperate need.

These challenges are not new, which is why it’s so important that the country is governed by those who are committed to helping Madagascar grow and develop. Please pray that Madagascar’s politicians would not seek to serve themselves, but rather that they would seek to serve the people of Madagascar and do what is right for the nation. Pray also that Malagasy Christians would act, the churches are always full…but no-one does anything. The people may be in church, but their hearts are not; they are in church on Sunday, and off to see the diviners on Monday.

COUNTRYFOCUS:MADAGASCAR

May 10-16

MEET THE LINLEY CHILDREN

The Linley family live and work in Mandritsara, Madagascar. We asked Phoebe (9); Jonah (7) and Barnaby (3)

their thoughts on living in Madagascar.

WHERE DO YOU LIVE? CAN YOU DESCRIBE IT FOR US?

BARNEY: Here.PHOEBE: In Mandritsara, Madagascar. It is green in the wet season, brown in the dry season. It’s hot and often there is no water in the taps.JONAH: It’s hot and at the moment it is very muddy because there was a cyclone. I love taking my clothes off and playing in the rain! We drive in a Land Rover and the roads are very bumpy. I hope Mummy doesn’t crash into any more motorbikes!

WHAT IS THE FOOD LIKE?

P: Most people here eat rice all the time but we are able to buy other things too like pasta so we eat similar things to in England. We don’t eat the pork here because we might get worms. I like eating fried crickets, they are really nice!

©Photo: fandresena

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J: Nice. My favourite food is spaghetti bolognese. The mangoes and lychees here are awesome!B: I love the rice!

WHAT’S IT LIKE LIVING IN ANOTHER COUNTRY, TELLING PEOPLE ABOUT JESUS?

P: I think it is easier here for me as I go to a Christian school and my teachers are Christians.J: I love living in Madagascar. When I am in England I get homesick.

DO YOU GO TO CHURCH?

B: Yes.J: Yes. It is long and in Malagasy so I don’t understand it, but I am happy if I can sit next to my friends. At the end of church we shake hands with everyone there.P: Yes. It is in Malagasy. I like the singing. During the sermon I am allowed to read something. I often read a whole book! We also have ‘Kids Church’ in English on a Sunday afternoon with the other missionary families, and we all eat a big meal together afterwards.

WHERE DO YOU WANT TO LIVE IN THE FUTURE?

J: I would like to live in a whole new world called arakarauygj9hjP: I’m not sure yet.B: Antarctica (Barney is a big fan of penguins!)

DO YOU HAVE ANY FAVOURITE BIBLE VERSES OR STORIES?

P: ‘…do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself….’ (Matt. 6:34) I like this verse because it helps me when I’m worried about exams coming up at school.J: Moses before Pharaoh, and God saying ‘let my people go’, and the 10 plagues.

See People & Places p12-13For more information on mission partners working in Madagascar

10 MAY | SUNDAYPlease join us in

praying for our mission partners, from Diego Suarez in the north to Tulear in the south, and everyone in between. Pray for Daniel Zagami as Unit Leader, as he and his wife Sarah seek God’s will for their future; for the new Focus team working in Tulear, and the new TIMO team on Nosy Mitsio, a small island off the northeast coast.

11 MAY | MONDAYPray for Hannah

Coggins, Pierre-Alain & Emmanuelle Luder and all the Betroka Focus Team working amongst the Bara people of south-central Madagascar. Pray for their literacy work, that in being able to read the gospel in the own language, the Bara people would recognise their Lord.

12 MAY | TUESDAYPray for Katy Linley

working as a doctor at the Good News Hospital in Mandritsara: please pray for her and the other doctors, for strength to deal compassionately with the many patients they see each day, and for Malagasy Christian doctors to join the team.

13 MAY | WEDNESDAYGive thanks

for Karin Mende and the transformational development work she is doing in HIV/Aids ministry in Antsirabe. Pray too for the Hofmann family, raising support to join a Focus team in Antananarivo seeking

to help the Malagasy Christians reach the unreached in their own country.

14 MAY | THURSDAYPlease pray for

the Mallett family in Mahajanga. Pray for Graeme and Eli as they focus on learning Malagasy, for good relationships with pastors from the local Union of Evangelical Churches, and for the children at school.

15 MAY | FRIDAYPlease pray for

Mat Linley heading up the multi-agency Friends of Mandritsara team at the Good News Hospital: pray for vision, patience, and for God’s wisdom in management decisions; pray that he stays close to Jesus as he seeks to help others do the same.

16 MAY | SATURDAYPlease pray for the

missionary children in Mandritsara who have local French-speaking school each morning and English-speaking home school in the afternoons. Give thanks for the provision of a home school teacher from next academic year.

WEEKLY FOCUS

Pray for God-glorifying leadership

in Madagascar, for continued openness to the gospel and for peace. Pray for Christians, that those turning away from traditional religious practices would live differently, and that others would be changed as a result.

For the full interview visit:

eu.aimint.org/madagascarmay2015

Sharing the gospel with an unreached people group is not easy. Here the Raychards share something of a team’s preparation as they get ready to live amongst the Digo people of southern Kenya.

FOCUS TEAM

My wife Joyce and I have been in Digo ministry in Kenya and

Tanzania for 18 years; we left the U.S. on 15 January for a final two-year term before retiring from the field.

During the next two years we will lead a Focus Team made up of one couple (with six children) and four single women. The couple and two of the singles are American; one of the single ladies is Canadian, the other is Australian. We may yet have another single woman and another couple joining us if they are able to raise sufficient support.

To start with, Joyce and I will work to orient and equip the members of this team for long-term ministry among the

Digo people through various teaching sections. We will be studying language and culture, spiritual warfare and prayer, local religions (the Digo are Islamic and animistic), evangelism through storying, cross-cultural communication, and other topics as time allows.

SHARING CHRISTAdam & Heather are

hoping to begin an agricultural innovation called ‘Farming God’s Way’ (see page 30-31). Establishing a Farming God’s

“The goal of course is to cultivate not only maize but also meaningful relationships through which the gospel can be shared.”

THE DIGOPEOPLE

The Digo are a Muslim tribe living in northern Tanzania and southern

Kenya. More than 100,000 Digo are concentrated on the northern coastal strip of Tanzania from the town of Tanga to the border of Kenya. They inhabit the fertile plains of the Pangani River, between the Usambara Mountains and the Indian Ocean.

Islam is widely accepted among the Digo though only a few have studied it in depth. Ties with traditional practices such as animism (the belief that non-human objects have spirits) and ancestor worship (praying to ancestors for help and guidance) still have significant influence. Most are unreached with the gospel.

PEOPLE FOCUS: THE DIGO

May 17-23

Way project has great potential for the primarily agricultural Digo people. The goal of course is to cultivate not only maize but also meaningful relationships through which the gospel can be shared. The ladies have skills in nursing (Joanne), IT (Laura), teaching (Samantha), and evangelism (Kim). Through our various skills we are seeking to get alongside and support the Digo, and through this, to share the gospel of Christ.

Download a prayer sheet on the Digo people:

www.aimint.org/eu/digo

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WEEKLY FOCUS

Please pray for Joyce & Wayne

Raychard leading a Focus Team amongst the Digo of Kenya. The team started in January, so please pray for the new relationships built amongst them, that they may quickly establish team unity, fellowship and trust.

“They have come out passionate about sharing the gospel with the Digo…”

LEARNING PRIORITYFor the last few months,

learning has been the priority, and that has necessitated a fair bit of travelling for the team. We arrived in Nairobi on the 17th January and then the team left for Africa Based Orientation. Following that we all travelled to Mombasa where we spent some time learning about life on the coast before moving out to Kwale in the Digo tribal area. Before getting totally settled into our new homes, we were on the move again. At the end of February the team travelled to Tanga, Tanzania for a three-month Kiswahili language course. This is an important step; it’s possible to learn Kiswahili through a structured programme, an easier stepping stone for those used to Western teaching styles. With that as a basis, Chidigo (the Digo language) will be a bit more accessible because of the similarity in the structure of the verbs, noun classes, and grammar.

17 MAY | SUNDAYAt the moment the

team are undertaking a three-month Kiswahili language course in Tanga, Tanzania. They are learning Kiswahili before Chidigo (the Digo language) as this forms an important stepping stone into language acquisition. Pray that they wouldn’t be daunted but would have enthusiasm and perseverance as they learn.

18 MAY | MONDAYPlease pray for

vehicles for the team. They need two vans, one for the family of eight and one for the others. Please join the Raychards and the team in asking God for reliable and reasonably priced vehicles that will serve the team over the course of the next two years.

19 MAY | TUESDAYPlease pray for safety

for the team as they travel Kenya’s highways. Rules exist but seem not to apply, at least in the minds of many drivers. Pray particularly for the family who will be driving their own vehicle but have no experience of driving in Africa.

20 MAY WEDNESDAY

Please pray for the team’s security. There has been a dramatic rise in the number of terrorist-related attacks in Kenya. Al-Shabaab is a Somali terrorist group carrying out some of the attacks in Kenya. Operatives are actively recruiting young Digo men in several mosques along the coast to go to Somalia for militia training.

21 MAY | THURSDAYThe MRC (Mombasa

Republican Council) is a Kenyan organisation intent

on forcing the secession of the entire Coast Province to form its own Islamic state. They have attacked churches in Kwale County and assassinated chiefs and others who dare to oppose them. Please pray for the team’s security and that they would be a support to Christians living alongside them.

22 MAY | FRIDAYPray for the Digo

people that the team will be living amongst in Kenya. Pray that their hearts and minds may be open to receive the gospel.

23 MAY | SATURDAYPray for the

community development projects that the team hope to engage in as a means of outreach to the Digo. Pray that there would be opportunities for all of the team to use their various skills and that through this work relationships would be built with the Digo and the gospel shared.

Digo team leaders, Wayne & Joyce Raychard deep in language study.

This is a difficult time for the team. They have come out passionate about sharing the gospel with the Digo, but now are becoming more aware of the ground work needed and the volume of learning required. Please pray for us all, that we may concentrate on the goal that is ahead, and run the race with perseverance.

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24 MAY SUNDAY

Please pray for us as we learn French. Pray we will get a place at a college in France this autumn. Pray that we will be able to find time, in between our jobs and looking after Anya, to learn even before we get there.

25 MAY MONDAY

Please pray for our daughter Anya. Pray that she will adjust well to all the changes. Pray that she will grow up to love the Lord and not to resent the lifestyle we have chosen for Jesus and his gospel. Pray that we would be good witnesses to her of Jesus’ love and grace.

26 MAY TUESDAY

Please pray for Alma as she juggles being a new Mum alongside all our preparations for leaving. Pray particularly for time for her to learn some French. Pray too for the extra things we need to think about on this return to Mayotte, now that we have Anya with us.

27 MAY WEDNESDAY

Please pray for John as he works four days a week as a primary school teacher and spends the rest of his time learning French, serving at church and being a Dad. Pray that he will be a good witness at school and lead the family wisely.

John & Alma Baker served on a TIMO (Training in Ministry Outreach) team in the Indian Ocean Islands from 2010-2012. They are now returning to Mayotte to continue sharing the gospel with the Kibuishi people. They share their story here:

A THIRD PLACE

Alma and I met at St Helen’s Bishopsgate studying Mark’s gospel.

At first we avoided each other on a weekend away as we were both tired of making small talk with other primary school teachers! But eventually we got to know each other and were married in 2008. Alma is

from beautiful Donegal, and I am from grimey East London. We love both Donegal and London and would happily spend our lives in one of those two places, but God has put a third place in our hearts.

Alma had an interest in Mayotte for a number of years after praying through Operation World. In 2009 we joined AIM and went on a two year TIMO team to Mayotte from January 2010-2012. We lived in a predominantly Kibushi speaking village; learnt their language; studied the TIMO curriculum; thought about and discussed what long term ministry there might look like; and sought to share the gospel whenever we could.

FUTURE PREPERATIONSSince returning to London

we have been members of Christchurch, Leyton. I have completed the Cornhill

May 24-30

NEW MEMBERS

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Training Programme (a training course for preachers) and Alma has been teaching at a women’s education centre. More recently we have become a Mum & Dad for the first time with the arrival of our daughter Anya in November.

Our time since TIMO has given us good opportunities to prepare for future service. Alma has been teaching Muslim women daily, furthering her understanding of what it is like to live as a woman in their religious culture. And I have had opportunities to study and to get experience of Christian ministry with people from diverse backgrounds.

HEADING BACKSince returning we have

been wrestling with if or when we would go back to Mayotte and over the past few months it has seemed increasingly obvious that the time is now! Sometimes decisions are not down to a purely rational application of logic, but are made with the heart and the head together, and our hearts are telling us to go back and continue what we started, to go back and continue based on the call we felt five years ago.

God willing, we will go back a bit older and a bit wiser; a bit clearer as to what day to day Christian ministry looks like; and a bit less naïve and idealistic, yet we hope not with any cynicism or lack of faith in the incredible things God can do. We hope to go back relying on him and not on ourselves.

As we think about heading to Mayotte, we are excited to go back to people we love and got on well with. I regularly have dreams where I’m chatting to people from the village and think I see them on the street sometimes! We are excited about the possible ministry opportunities working alongside other AIMers and expat Christians. But of course there is a degree of sacrifice involved and it will be very sad to say goodbye again to friends and especially to see family say goodbye to our gorgeous little girl.

28 MAY THURSDAY

Please pray that we are able to raise prayer support and financial support to enable us to study in France and then return to Mayotte.

29 MAY | FRIDAYPlease pray that

we would be led by God in making decisions about where to live

in Mayotte and what ministry opportunities to pursue. Pray that we would have good relationships with the international church before we arrive and when we get there.

30 MAY SATURDAY

Please pray for our families, especially our parents, who make a bigger sacrifice than we do in willingly and supportively letting us go. Pray that God would comfort them and support them, especially when the time comes for us to say goodbye for a while.

THE KIBUSHI

The Kibushi (also known as Shibushi or Bushi) speaking

people of Mayotte have their origins in the nearby island of Madagascar. Since the latter half of the 19th century Malagasy people have immigrated and settled on Mayotte, and it is these immigrants and plantation workers that are today known as the Kibushi. Mayotte is divided between speakers of Shimahore (the language of the majority; a Bantu based language closely related to Swahili) and Kibushi (the language of the minority; a Sakalava dialect of Malagasy). Speakers of both Shimahore and Kibushi identify themselves first as Muslims, and then as Mahore, that is, residents of Mayotte.

WEEKLY FOCUSPlease pray for us

as we prepare to go back to Mayotte in Autumn 2016. That seems a long way off but there’s lots of preparation to be done! Pray for our spiritual lives: that we would love God, each other, God’s people, and those who are currently outside his kingdom and lost.

“As we think about heading to Mayotte, we are excited to go back to people we love…”

See People & Places p10For more information on mission partners working on the Islands

aimint.org/eu/pandp

PEOPLE FOCUS:THE RENDILLE

May 31 - June 6

So why did short termer, Steve Titterton bother to go and live with the Rendille? He tells us about Chulayo. Chulayo is a teenager who is zealous for Jesus, but has never really been discipled. Thankfully, he was more than happy to read the Bible with Steve.

LEARNING AS I WENT

Keep in mind that I am far from being any kind of discipleship expert,

I was learning as I was going along. As we met every week to search the Scriptures and pray together, he began to grow in his faith and share his passion with others, in ways that I never expected. The fire began to spread.

THINKING OPPORTUNITYGreat ideas seemed to come

to Chulayo from nowhere. He joined with five other boys to meet before sunrise to listen to the Bible and to worship, and soon dozens were meeting together. These boys also go out to the villages to preach. Also, from Monday to Friday, during a 30 minute break in lessons, he would gather some of his classmates under a tree and teach them from the Scriptures. Chulayo even gets asked by the

Headteacher to lead assemblies for the whole school. In particular, I was struck by Chulayo’s willingness to share encouraging verses with his entire peer group, including many devout Muslims, before the biggest exam of their lives. Everyone else was thinking ‘exam’ and Chulayo was thinking ‘opportunity.’ Would we think ‘opportunity’?

JUST LIKE GIDEON Everyone always comments

on his smile; he has a face that can light up a whole room. But he has not had an easy start to life by any means. Born into the forgotten desert lands of northern Kenya, he belongs to one of the poorest tribes in the world, the Rendille. His own village does not really even have a name, but identifies itself with the nearby settlement of Nagan. It takes six hours to fetch water and another two for firewood. He is the fifth of seven children. He jokes that he is like Gideon, the weakest boy, from the poorest clan. ‘We have goats, sheep and camels, but they are very few in number.’ Chulayo has virtually no possessions, apart from a few clothes and items for school.

Chulayo wants to be a pastor, because: ‘People need to be saved!’ He may only be fifteen (and a three-year-old Christian), but it’s hard to question his heart for the Lord. I asked him what he liked about Jesus: ‘He died on the cross of Calvary because of my sins and he won the crown for me and you. He overcame death and he is alive.’

Photo © LuA

nne Cadd

Adult classes in literacy are run by the local church.

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THERENDILLE

The Rendille live in the desert of northern Kenya, and the biggest settlement

is called Korr. They are semi-nomadic; those in the north herd camels, and those further south herd cattle. They practise a traditional, animistic religion which includes prayer to the moon (which is considered a god), animal sacrifices and worship of ancestral spirits.

Within every village there is a place called ‘nahapo’. This is a place of prayer where a fire burns that is never allowed to go out. Every night the men of the village meet there at 8.00pm and one man is designated to lead them in prayer. The Rendille believed that they are descended from the Jews, and as such, also have traditional religious practices that resemble those of Judaism. However, the Jesus film has been having a great impact. There are now believers among the Rendille and even several churches.

Download a prayer sheet:

www.aimint.org/eu/rendille

31 MAY | SUNDAYGive thanks for

Nick and Lynne Swanepoel (South Africa). Since starting work amongst the Rendille in the 1980’s they have learnt their language and developed it into written form. Nick’s continuing work, alongside Rendille helpers, means that the Rendille have large sections of the New Testament in their own language.

1 JUNE | MONDAYGive thanks for Short

Termers who have gone out to support the Swanepoels’ work, to continue literacy and Bible teaching and to work in the schools in Korr. Pray for Steve Titterton recently returned from Short Term work amongst the Rendille as he considers God’s future call on his life.

2 JUNE | TUESDAYGive thanks for the local

church’s ‘Tirrim Project’. As part of the Tirrim Project, a team of local people run adult classes in literacy, basic health, numeracy and animal care in the go’obs (villages). The primary schools and the secondary school are all part of the local church’s ‘Tirrim Project’.

3 JUNE | WEDNESDAYLife for many of the

Rendille is extremely hard. Many have a six mile walk to water. Pray for development projects seeking to improve conditions for local people through the creation of boreholes. Pray that this community work will demonstrate the love of Christ.

4 JUNE | THURSDAYThere is no hospital or

doctor amongst the Rendille. This means that people die

from ailments, which we in the West would class as minor, such as tonsillitis. Pray that Christian workers would be raised up to live amongst the Rendille and to train them in medical care.

5 JUNE | FRIDAYGive thanks for the

Christian teachers at the Tirrim primary and secondary schools. Pray that as they teach the Rendille children from a Christian worldview, that the children would learn of Jesus and develop their own interest to explore and examine the Christian faith. Pray that many would turn to the Lord.

6 JUNE | SATURDAYPlease continue to pray

for the ongoing literacy work amongst the Rendille. Pray particularly for men seeking to learn to read. Pray that these men who have grown up with traditional beliefs would encounter Jesus through their reading and become disciple-making disciples.

WEEKLYFOCUS

Pray for the young church amongst the

Rendille. Pray for wise, servant hearted leaders to guide and disciple the new Rendille believers. Pray too that the Rendille Christians would be evangelists to their people group and in doing so, reach the unreached with the gospel.

Chulayo met with Steve Titterton every week to pray and study the Bible together.

June 7-13

MINISTRY FOCUS:OUTREACH & EVANGELISM

Heather works amongst the women on an Indian Ocean Island, seeking to share Jesus with them and the freedom there is in knowing him.

BEYOND EVERYDAY LIFE

What is the key to reaching the island women? What keeps

them from responding to the good news, or even showing an interest in it? These are questions we’ve pondered and prayed through many times.

We’ve developed deep relationships over many years, but it’s often hard to get beyond conversations about everyday life – children, work in the fields, physical needs. These are huge preoccupations for them, but there is a much deeper bondage through the influence of the spirit world. Their culture and families also discourage them from asking questions beyond what they know.

BEING VALUEDWith increasing technology,

there is greater access to the outside world, and many women are attracted by ‘soap operas’ dubbed into French, from Europe, the US, India and

South America. Is this their idea of a ‘better life’? Some women work outside the home as teachers or shopkeepers, and some want a greater say in political life too. But many are just seen as child-bearers, they are known as the ‘mother of… ’(their first child), and polygamy is common. A lot of the ministry among women has been through health and education, mother-tongue literacy and numeracy classes have been a great way to build relationships, as in the past many women didn’t have the opportunity to go to school. These ministries help women to grow in confidence, realise that they are valued, and can achieve. A lot of time is also invested in visiting women, and spending time with them and their children.

TRANSLATING GOD’S WORDA recent exciting

development has been to move into more language development, and translation of the Word. This comes with challenges, given the need for integrity in a creative access nation, but also in trying to find reliable and capable mother-tongue speakers as language helpers. I have a friend who has helped me with language projects over many years, but her husband won’t agree to her doing this translation. However, he seems happy for her to help with testing translated portions, which is also essential for ensuring a clear, accurate and natural translation.

We’re grateful for the favour shown us as our visas are renewed each year, but don’t want to take it for granted. We want to be wise in how we use the time we have here, discerning where the Lord is at work.

“…health, literacy and numeracy classes have been a great way to build relationships…”

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See People & Places p15For the index of mission partners working in outreach & evangelism.

www.aimint.org/eu/pandp

7 JUNE | SUNDAYPray that relationships

built through classes and clinics will lead to lasting friendships and deeper conversations. Give thanks for all the friendships developed in our neighbourhoods and village communities too.

8 JUNE | MONDAYPray for my language

helper, that she would reflect on all she has heard over many years. Give thanks for her little girl, born last year after many years of marriage, and ask that Yolande* and her husband would come to know the giver of all good gifts.

9 JUNE | TUESDAYGive thanks for the

resources which already exist in the heart languages of the Islanders, and pray that those already distributed will be read, watched and listened to, with understanding. Pray for those who have received them, that the truth would sink deep into their hearts.

10 JUNE | WEDNESDAYPray for materials

being prepared, and especially for the translation of the Word. Pray for reliable and capable mother-tongue translators who will be able to produce a clear, accurate and natural translation in their heart language, and that they themselves will understand and respond to what they are translating. Pray too as scripture is shared orally.

11 JUNE | THURSDAYPray for all the workers,

that our lives will be a testimony to those among whom we live and work. There is also a family from a neighbouring country, and an African couple here as tentmakers. Pray for wisdom and good language skills in conversations, and that our lives will point to the one who is the way, truth and life.

12 JUNE | FRIDAYOne local couple who

responded to the good news in France, and returned here a number of years ago, have recently had a lot of health issues. Pray for restoration, and a strong witness, even in difficult times.

13 JUNE | SATURDAYOne local man has

worked for different team members, working in their homes for about 30 years. He made a decision a number of years ago, but often struggles to understand, and his reading ability is limited. Pray that he would grow in his faith and share with his family.

SEEKINGTHE TRUTH

Amy who is also involved in outreach and evangelism on the Islands shares this story about Abdul*, a man seeking the truth...

Recently I went to visit my good friend Mama Alia and on arrival was

introduced to a family member about her age. We began chatting and on finding out that I was a Christian he started telling me how much he loved the Bible and that he had read it several times. In reality I think he had read Genesis, but his enthusiasm was genuine and he recounted the creation story and parts of the story of Abraham. He commented how the Quran has a summary of the stories but that the full stories are right there in the Bible! It turns out that he had read the Bible whilst studying abroad, when he had first met people of different faiths. Their questions made him realise that he wasn’t really a Muslim, and so he began learning about the different religions and made a decision to be a true Muslim. Please pray that his journey wouldn’t stop here, but that this would prove to be the first in a series of steps towards God. Pray that just as he realised that following God isn’t just a matter of going to the mosque on Friday so would he realise that his good works are not enough and that God wants to transform his heart.

*names changed

WEEKLYFOCUS

Pray for those on the Islands who

have heard the gospel. Response is sometimes seen among single young men, but they don’t always follow through consistently. Pray for heads of households, and family units to make commitments. Remember too the women in their spiritual bondage, asking that they will have a desire for truth and freedom.

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WEEKLYFOCUS

Agriculture & Farming God’s Way has the

potential of being a key tool in helping AIM’s mission partners reach the unreached across Africa. Pray for the team at Growing Nations as they look to develop a vision and strategy that will allow future teams to be trained in Lesotho before being sent out to the unreached.

June 14-22

14 JUNE SUNDAY

Praise God for the many stories of lives transformed through the work of the Growing Nations team. Pray that those trained by Growing Nations not only experience physical change through increased crop yields but a long lasting spiritual change too.

15 JUNE MONDAY

Chris Klompas & Tobias Reuff are part of the five strong

team ministering to the shepherds in the mountains of Lesotho. Praise God for the great team spirit they’ve shown and how they’re adapting to the extreme conditions. Pray for them in relationship building with the shepherds, language learning and health and safety.

16 JUNE TUESDAY

Praise God for the current peace in Lesotho. Please pray that all will accept the

results of the recent elections. Pray that the new government will be focused on taking the country forward and that there will be reduced tensions between the police and army.

17 JUNE WEDNESDAY

Pray for Barry & Heather Mann as they mentor and equip the Growing Nations team in Maphutseng and as they run the AIM Lesotho Unit, having taken over the role from August

Through the Farming God’s Way programme Growing Nations teaches and trains farmers in a Biblical worldview that leads them to see themselves as stewards of God’s creation.

Working on an agricultural project in Lesotho is hardly where you would expect to find a photographer and an accountant, but this is where the Lord called Barry & Heather Mann to serve.

GROWING NATIONS

We have been with AIM since 2012 and are working in

partnership with Growing Nations in Lesotho, having been supporters of their work, and that of August & Anita Basson, since 2005. Heather is the CEO of Growing Nations, responsible

for the overall running and strategy of the project whilst Barry is the communications and media specialist. Both of our roles are primarily focused on the mentoring and equipping of the Basotho staff at Growing Nations, including spiritual leadership and understanding, to empower them to run Growing Nations without outside help.

In addition to this Barry took over the Lesotho Unit Leader role in February, whilst Heather takes care of all the unit’s finance and administration.

COUNTRY FOCUS:LESOTHO

UNDERPINNED BY BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES

Growing Nations is teaching Farming God’s Way (Conservation Agriculture-CA) to farmers in Lesotho and in other African countries. Farming God’s Way not only teaches CA farming methods but more importantly is underpinned by key Biblical principles which bring spiritual transformation. The project works amongst pastors, evangelists, farmers and runs a two year resident student programme training up to 12 students each year. In addition a considerable effort goes into research and development work to establish best practices.

It is amazing to see the impact that the work of Growing Nations has had amongst individuals and whole communities. It is often a slow process getting people to adopt CA due to perceptions of increased time and effort needed. The results of a few are starting to influence those around them and gradually people change their mindsets and adopt CA practices.

REACHING THE UNREACHEDThere are so many stories

to tell about transformed lives in Lesotho through the work of Growing Nations, but AIM has started looking beyond the reached within Lesotho to establish whether Farming God’s Way can be used to reach the many Unreached People Groups (UPGs) across Africa who are dependent on subsistence agriculture. ‘Farming Quest’, an annual three week course, is designed to train missionaries in the principles of Farming God’s Way, allowing them to teach others in their own ministry areas. Beyond that AIM & Growing Nations are working on a vision and strategy that could see teams being trained in Farming God’s Way and church planting before being sent out to live & work alongside UPGs with the aim of bringing the gospel to them through agriculture.

PALAMANG & PHETHISANG RANKU

Four years ago, Palamang & Phethisang Ranku, brothers from

the village of Ha Lelinyane, were taught about Farming God’s Way by the Growing Nations extension team. Following the training, they implemented what they learnt and have continued to learn from follow up visits.

See People & Places p12For more information on mission partners working in Lesotho

www.aimint.org/eu/pandp

Basson in February. Pray too that they will have a time of spiritual refreshment and relaxation during their home assignment between May and September 2015.

18 JUNE THURSDAY

Please pray that Sam & Leanna Williamson, team leaders of the Extreme Shepherd TIMO team, would continue adjusting to life in Clarens, South Africa and that they would

be able to balance team responsibilities with family life. Pray for Sam’s safety as he travels weekly to visit the team in the mountains.

19 JUNE FRIDAY

Lesotho is a reached country with many different denominations; however missionaries have not been sent out from Lesotho for many years. Pray that the AIM members in Lesotho will be able to inspire and mobilise

a new generation of missionaries that will take the good news to more in Africa.

20 JUNE SATURDAY

Praise God for the amazing Basotho staff team members who have been called to work at Growing Nations. Please pray that they will be able to inspire others and bring about spiritual transformation through their Farming God’s Way teaching.

Watch a film about the project:

eu.aimint.org/growing-nations

They now work together with other farmers supporting each other and are proud of the yields that they are getting which equate to 2.2 & 3.7 tons/hectare respectively, significantly above the average maize yield in Lesotho of 0.5-0.8 t/ha.

Members of the community who commented that they were making work for themselves when they started with conservation agriculture (CA) have now seen the results and are coming to learn from them.

It is wonderful to see the community not only getting higher yields and having improved food security, but they are also giving the glory to God for the transformation that has taken place in their lives and are passing it on to others.

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SHORT TERMJune 23-30

FROM RAP TOTHEOLOGY

I have started teaching English at the Antsirabe Baptist Bible Seminary

to a group of very motivated individuals (of all ages) all of whom are studying theology. They love to ask about the Scottish culture and pick my brains to discover how different life is back home for me. It is truly amazing to see relationships forming in this way. In particular, there is a younger guy there, called Victorien, who I have connected with. He comes from a non-Christian family and used to be a semi-famous rap artist in Madagascar (and he showed me his videos on youtube). He told me that this took him down a lot of very dangerous paths, getting into trouble with the police and leaving school having failed his Baccalauréat exam. I found it amazing the way that God lifted him out of this dark period in his life as he became so curious by why things were going so badly for him and why God appeared not to help him that this actually brought him to faith. Thank God for tests and problems!

James Hookham is in Madagascar, helping at Creafor Center and Hosanna English Chapel.

James Hookham is a recent Mathematics with French graduate from Imperial College of London who is taking a year out to serve in Madagascar. Here he shares how he has been getting on so far:

EVERYTHING I’D HOPED

I’m writing this at the start of my fourth week of an seven month period here

in Madagascar as a Short Termer with AIM. It is already proving to be everything that I had hoped it would be and I can already feel God working in everything I am doing here to change both my life and the lives of the Malagasy people. As a recent Maths and French graduate, I felt God strongly calling me to spread his Word as a teacher here in Antsirabe.

Inevitably, the hopes that I had for this Short Term mission came with their own complementary set of fears. Firstly, the Malagasy culture has its own nuances which take time to discover and, furthermore, although French is widely spoken here in Antsirabe, Malagasy is by

far the dominant language. It is not an easy language to learn either (the longest word I have found has been the Malagasy President’s name which contains 37 syllables in total!) which, despite all of the language help given to us here by AIM, makes integration very hard.

SPREADING GOD’S LOVEIt is good that there are four

of us Short Termers teaching here in Antsirabe, as we can share experiences together. Matthaeus (Paraguay), Holly (USA), Susana (Colombia/USA) and I have witnessed our fair share of attention being the local “vasa” (foreigners) and also of bad weather during the cyclone season which has impacted the lives of many Malagasy people across the country. Following a political crisis here in 2009, poverty

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HA

PPY BIRTHD

AY♥

23 JUNE | SUNDAYJames Hookham

began a seven month assignment in Madagascar in January. He is helping at Creafor Center and Hosanna English Chapel where he will be facilitating language conversation classes and assisting with outreach. Pray that by God working through James he would be able to inspire and encourage the students he meets with.

24 JUNE | MONDAYAnna Wilmshurst

is out in Madagascar where she is assisting Malagasy teachers, developing relationships, and helping with ways to reach children’s hearts and their families at Madagascar Christian Academy. Pray for good relationships with the teachers, children and families allowing for opportunities to share the Word.

25 JUNE | TUESDAYJulia Howarth is

also out in Madagascar where she is involved at ALPHA school, which runs conversation classes where they seek to creatively speak about Christ during the classes. Please pray for Julia as she continues to share her knowledge and faith with the students.

26 JUNE | WEDNESDAY

Caroline Bell is working as a medical doctor in Adi, DR Congo. She is working in a hospital alongside two permanent doctors who treat those living with Aids. Pray that Caroline would be a good support to the doctors and for opportunities for her to share her faith with those she meets.

is very noticeable with the average person earning just $1 a day. There is also an apparent lack of passion for mission in Madagascar resulting in a sort of spiritual malnourishment alongside the physical malnourishment of the people. Please keep these thoughts in your prayers as we continue to spread God’s

love through a country that has desperate needs during these arduous times.

Please pray for a deepening faith amongst the Malagasy people. So far, it seems to me as though the Malagasy culture is largely driven by the superstition based on ancestor worship, all bad things that happen to them are seen as a sign of their ancestors being angry and sometimes people use going to church as a way ancestor appeasement and do not really have a heart for God or know what it means to be a Christian.

“Please keep these thoughts in your prayers as we continue to spread God’s love through a country that has desperate needs…”

AIM are seeking to place a Training in Ministry Outreach (TIMO) team amongst the unreached Ik people in an idyllic spot

along the north eastern corner of Uganda.The TIMO team will live amongst the Ik for

two years, seeking to share the glorious gospel of Christ with them.

For the team to do that, they need houses. And this is where Short Term can really help. We are looking for a team of people willing to work together with nationals and the TIMO team

leaders to build houses. These houses will not be plush and luxurious, they will be simple and appropriate to the community they are living in. We don’t need experts but servants with open hands and hearts. Alongside construction, there will also be opportunities to engage and build relationships with the Ik community. We pray that the impact of construction will be much deeper than houses built with mud and brick, leading to the development of spiritual houses in the hearts of the Ik, where Christ can dwell.

We’re looking for people to join this team from the beginning of 2016 and at various points throughout the year. So if you’ve got any time to give, get in touch with Tom at stc.eu@aimint.org

BUILD TIMOTEAM HOMES AMONGST THEUNREACHED IK PEOPLE

Opportunities to serve

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WEEKLY FOCUS

Please pray that all our Short Termers

would know the presence of our Lord and Saviour as they serve in Africa. For some of them, this is the first time they have been in Africa so pray for them as they learn to adapt to new cultures and new experiences.

Lydia Morrell had just graduated from the University of Ulster with a degree in Physiotherapy when she left Northern Ireland to go on Short Term mission to Uganda. Here she shares her experiences:

My typical week in Uganda was spent at Mbarara Regional

Hospital at the physiotherapy department working mainly with the inpatients, seeing lots of different conditions; strokes, HIV, TB, fractures and burns.

I also worked alongside the physiotherapy department at Mbarara University and built up relationships with the students, especially the third-years as they were on placement at the hospital while I was there. Getting to know them and spend time with them was probably one of the highlights of my time in Mbarara, as they are such great young people.

Now I’m back in the UK, I can see how much my confidence has grown with this experience, in treating patients, but also with communicating with people of a different culture, and with a

language barrier as well. I have learnt that you can never take for granted the use of actions in trying to explain to people what you mean.

I would definitely encourage anyone to go on a short-term mission trip. You will get to experience another culture, learn new things, and grow in your relationship with God as he challenges you to step out in your faith. At the beginning of my journey back home, on the bus trip to Kampala, I was asked to stand up and pray for the safety of our journey before the bus departed. I thought this was amazing …it really challenged me of what we take for granted back home.

27 JUNE THURSDAY

In July a team of students from Edinburgh University Christian Union are heading out to the island of Saint Marie in Madagascar to go and help, teach and train people in outreach. Pray that God would prepare each one of them for the challenges they will face.

28 JUNE | FRIDAYBethany, Sarah

and Gunter are about to return to the UK having taught English at the

University in Bunia, DR Congo since October 2014. Pray for their adjustment back to life in the UK and that the Lord would lead them on to their next steps.

29 JUNE SATURDAY

Paul and Di Allcock continue to faithfully serve in Mbarara, Uganda. Pray that the Lord would continue to strengthen them in the work that they do, particularly as they have taken on the duty of unit leaders. Pray for wisdom to support

and encourage team members.

30 JUNE SUNDAY

Please pray for Tom and Rosemary who work in our Nottingham office as they seek to support Short Termers, from initial enquiry to debrief on their return from Africa. Pray for wisdom and discernment as they seek the right placements for individuals. Pray too that they would be encouraged through the stories Short Termers share.

LEFT: Lydia with the third year Physiotherapy students .

See People & Places for the current short-termers in Africa:

aimint.org/eu/peopleandplaces

PHYSIOTHERAPYIN UGANDA

“…I can see how much my confidence has grown…”

TEACHINGAT WELLSPRINGACADEMY

MAGAZINE & PRAYER DIARY

Africa Inland Mission’s APR-JUN 2015

Christ-centred churches among all African peoples

Opportunities to serve

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© AIM Europe | April 2015Africa Inland Mission International, a company limited by guarantee (04598557), a registered charity in England and Wales (1096364) and a charity registered in Scotland (SC037594) Registered Office: Halifax Place Nottingham NG1 1QN.

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Get involved at Wellspring Academy, Chad and help reach the unreached…

Teachers play a vital role in helping mission partners reach the unreached. If you are a qualified teacher (including retirees) and know some French, or know someone who might be interested, email:

PERSONNELADMIN.EU@AIMINT.ORG