Silembe Update

An update from Mike in Zambia (edited):

Happy New Year!

Not much I can say concerning the work, with the holidays and the rain. We have never seen or heard of this much rain this early. One of our guys from Silembe came to our house on New Year's Eve to warn us of the bad roads. He had traveled in a public transport double cab pickup -four wheel drive, that morning. He had to push several times as the vehicle got stuck. We have gotten rain every day. Another four wheel drive pickup got washed away trying to cross one of the small rivers that passes through the road.

Currently we're in Lusaka -we were looking at a 15 passenger Toyota van the US Embassy had for sale. We should have it tomorrow. The timing couldn't have been better; we had a really great Christmas service, seeing practically every person get saved. The lorry (Truck) got us their, in spite of muddy conditions and very high water. I later discovered the bottom radiator hose busted. The heat gauge stayed in the cold range because the engine was often submerged. I saw a bit of smoke, but thought it was just from the water. The engine is pretty much ruined. The previous problems were caused by the mechanic that did the overhaul for the mission putting two pistons ever so slightly longer than the others. I had planned on spending a lot of money on the engine last time we were in Lusaka, but didn't due to time constraints. Good thing, or all would be lost! I'll put a new engine in as soon as I find the best deal. Hopefully within the next week, or two.

I expect January to be less wet, based on history from the 60's when rains were better. The work continues.

God Bless,
(Mike)

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Though we have continued our work on the 2nd home, we have been a bit slowed by the weather. Joanne, also on location in Zambia, has begun the tedious work of creating a manual -processes and procedures document for the Orphanage.

Continue to keep the Orphans of Zambia in your prayers.

Blessings to you all!