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Thursday, March 31, 2011

Owerri 15



The jet lag has kicked me pretty bad this time.  Maybe I was still thinking about my Nigerian kin and my body just couldn’t make the transition.  Regardless of the cause, I still seem to be on Owerri time.

I think of all our family there.  I hated to leave them.  I think they felt the same way – unless I don’t know the Ibo translation of “Come back when you can’t stay so long!”
To say that we were greeted with love and respect everywhere we went seems a little inadequate.  There was a graciousness and patience with us as we fumbled through their culture at times.  Their cheery nature and appreciation of a good laugh was medicine to my soul.  They even laughed at a few of my jokes – the intended and the accidental.  My translator only threw me under the bus once – that I know of.  But I do enjoy a good laugh even when it’s at my expense – that just gives me the license I need.

For some of you who are wondering if Nigerians like Americans – the answer is yes.  They are importing our culture rapidly – cell phones and televisions.  You may see a lady carrying something in a basket on her head (very traditional) while she is talking on her cell phone.  There is no monthly cell service.  You buy a card with phone credit on it and install that on the phone.                                         

Owerri 14



We landed in Atlanta safely.  The flight was 12 ½ hours – a direct flight.  I installed my battery in my cell phone so I could call Audrey – a very welcome sound on the other end.

There was no trip to Germany and Chicago this time – praise God!  Getting through US customs was easier than ever.  They must be scanning a lot.  The first thing everyone went for was the coffee.  It tasted very good and the breakfast sandwich wasn’t bad either.  Jonathan and Zach left us: Zach to his parents in Atlanta and Jonathan to his aunt who was going to give him a ride to Knoxville.  By the way, we are very proud of Dr. Zach Cohen.  He begins his residency at Emory Hospital in Atlanta - a great honor and tops on his list.  A lot of people would like to do their residency there, but only a few get to.  “Many are called but few are chosen.”  I wonder how long he will keep his hair (you must see the pictures).

We boarded the last plane on this trip – or so we thought.  Then there was a mechanical problem.  People complained, but we didn’t.  James said “Yeah, that’s just God answering prayer to keep us safe.  I’ll gladly get on another plane.”  So, we did – then we were off to Savannah.  We landed and then began our walk into the terminal led by High Chief Dr. Kennedy Keleche Okere.  At the end of our walk was a crowd of family and Jesus kin waiting with open arms.  What a welcome sight!  God lets us experience a little bit of heaven just to keep us in anticipation. The celebration spilled over into the baggage claim.  A brief prayer meeting with last words from Dr. Okere and we left for home sweet home – real sleep in a real bed.

Owerri 13



It is Sunday and we are getting ready to leave.  We are giving gifts to the people who have helped us, taking pictures (snappy), and giving out good bye hugs.  We must get to the airport early because there is only one flight out of Owerri to Lagos.  A trip by land would be about nine hours and I am not sure we would make it.

We were slightly delayed by the police again this morning. Dr. Okere’s vehicle was stopped for having tinted glass – something for which he has a permit.  But soon we were on our way.  We checked in and the waited for the plane.  It was delayed, but finally we left Owerri.  Our Jesus kin was sad to see us go, but it is never really a final good bye is it?

Dr. Okere’s friend picked us up in Lagos at the local airport and took over to the international airport.  It was very smooth.  When we arrived, the air conditioning was not working.  The airport is designed to have air running.  So, you can imagine what we smell like.  Our wait was fairly uneventful.  Michael was able to negotiate an Internet connection for us, so I was able to get part of the blog out.

Lagos airport is an assortment of people.  It is interesting to watch all of them come and go.  Lagos is a very large city.  The governor of that state has done great things to bring improvements since our last trip.

Finally we are on the plane after having our baggage inspected at three places.  The air is working and the seats are comfortable.  I am writing this while people are sleeping all around me.  It is 2:15 am (your time in Georgia).  Three more hours and we’ll be on terra firma in Atlanta.  Then, a few more and we’ll be in Savannah.  I have more posts to record.

Monday, March 28, 2011

Owerri 12



This is Saturday and Dr. Okere has dubbed this as our day of rest and preparation to return.  We slept in a little later.  My internal clock has adjusted very well to this new environment, so I am waking up at about the same time I wake in Savannah.  But it is nice to hear the birds singing each morning.  In fact we have spotted toucans in the trees next to the hotel.

The owner of the hotel is having the land cleared next to the hotel.  This is thick and jungle like.  They are doing it with a machete – one machete for three guys.  They even chopped  down several trees with the machete.  It was an amazing thing to watch as they chopped up the trunk into manageable pieces.  We watched them kill two snakes which they cleaned, cooked and ate on the spot.  One of the snakes was a cobra.

One of the young men who works for the hotel came by to see me this morning.  I have had several talks with him since we arrived.  Several of the team had talked to him about his relationship to God.  This morning he received Christ into his life.  It was a beautiful sound to hear his voice praying and asking our Lord to come into his life. He was ready.  I started him on the Arrival Kit.  He left and then the owner of the hotel brought his family by for prayer.  We talked and prayed for a long time.  It was affirming to me that we were in the right place.  Only God could bring trust this quickly for people to come and seek us out for prayer and spiritual help.
Several of us went out to the home of Leslie’s uncle.  He hosted us for a surprise meal.  He lives in New York, but also has a home in Owerri.  He is retired now and spends part of the year in Owerri.  His surprise meal for us was turkey and dressing, giblet gravy, rice, green beans, corn, and fruit cocktail. This is quite different than our meals before now – not very Nigerian, but very tasty.

Speaking of food – our Nigerian kin have enjoyed having us try all sorts of food.  Some have watched us intently to see how we would react to the food.  I have discovered some new dishes on this trip.  A Nigerian meal may include many things, but the first thing that comes on your plate is rice.  If you don’t eat rice, then you are culinary challenged in Nigeria.

As we traveled back to the hotel, I was reminded of the great disparity that exists in the nation of Nigeria.  Elections will happen here in a matter of weeks.  I am praying for these elections to bring to power men and women who will stand for freedom and against corruption.

After we got back to the hotel I left again to see Dr. Amadi one more time.  I had some gifts to give, some things for him to take care of for me, and some money give to him for the Community Baptist Church.  I thank God for all those who gave money for this trip.  We have invested it very wisely in the work that is going here.
Clement gathered us for prayer and prayed a beautiful prayer of blessing over me.  He then thanked me and sent a thank you to his family at The Sycamore.  His life and testimony is an honor to God and to all Christians everywhere.  Please pray that God will grant him long life to serve the Master for a long time.

A tearful departure came at sundown.  Stanley and I journeyed back to Ihiagwa.  A lot happens on a Saturday night.  There is much activity.  Downtown Ihiagwa looked like a flea market on steroids.  I am glad I was able to see it at night.
I had a surprise while I was away: the ladies had fixed Zach’s hair.  I wonder what his mom will say.  Dr. Cohen has a new look.

People visited us at our rooms the rest of the night as we prepared to leave the next day. It will be hard to leave these people.  Finally I can get to bed – I’m wound pretty tight tonight so it may take another minute to fall asleep – zzzzzz!

Owerri 11



We made our way back to the hotel late in the afternoon.  Nothing happens quickly here.  People take their time to enjoy the moment and spend time with people.  I must say that I have not missed the media overload of my western culture.  I have missed Audrey, Logan, my family and church family a lot.  I wish all of you could see this with your own eyes.  But I guess you will have to settle for seeing it all through the eyes of those who come back to the US.

Megan and Gary went down to the river with me to do a little experiment for my dad.  We encountered many people who were staring at us.  The river is a beautiful turquoise color.  There is lush vegetation on either bank.  You can see the fish swimming around. 
We also visited the “tree” in Ihiagwa.  It is one of the biggest trees I have ever seen.  It’s trunk is the size of a redwood.  The people of Ihiagwa  say that the tree was here before the Igbo  people.  It Is very old.  Our trip to the tree attracted a fair amount of attention.  The people there wanted to have their picture made – mugging for the camera just like in the US.

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Owerri 10 Friday



Today was the day of the Chieftaincy Ceremony for Kennedy Kelechi and Leslie Okere.  I have looked forward to this ceremony with great anticipation.  We dressed for the occasion which was one of great pomp and circumstance.  As we arrived at the palace home of the King in Imerienwe, blasts rang out like cannon fire.  It signaled the arrival of the one who would be chief.  A band of young men who were singing, dancing and playing drums greeted Dr. and Mrs. Okere as they walked into open courtyard where the ceremony would be held.  There was a news reporter there with camera in hand.  The people crowded around.  It was a sight to behold.

Dr. and Mrs. Okere were dressed in matching costumes of beautiful material.  They greeted the King and Queen who were seated on their thrones in the center.  The King’s Council was gathered as well as many of the people from the village, friends and family.  Seated next to Dr. Okere was his mother and his uncle Dr. Clement Amadi.  

The ceremony began with the giving of the kola nut.  If you come to the home of the Igbo and you are not offered the kola nut, you should leave because you are not welcome.  We received the kola nut and were welcomed with open arms.  After some speeches, the King invited Dr. Okere to come forward.  He knelt and was presented multiple things symbolic of his title and office.  The most important, the king explained,  was the chief hat because it showed his identity and authority.  The Queen likewise conferred upon Leslie Okere her title and office.  It was a beautiful thing to watch.

Upon completion of the ceremony, the new chief and his bride made their way out the village with much fanfare.  We were able to see the High Chief shuffle.  I must say that Mrs. Okere is a better dancer.
We then made our way back to the home of Dr. Amadi for a reception and meal and a less formal gathering.  The village women danced and Mrs. Okere danced with them.  Blessings and thanksgivings were pronounced.  There was great joy.
Dr. Okere has been offered the chieftancy in other places.  He chose to accept this one because it was the home of his mother.  He has honored his mother greatly in doing this.

Owerri 9 – Thursday


Today the team was back together again.  We traveled out to Dr. Amadi’s home village of Imerienwe.  The First Baptist Church facility was the site of our clinic.  As we traveled down the road to this place, I can honestly say that a peace came over me – a peace that can only be from the Lord.  The feeling was palpable as we entered the village.  The people were waiting for us.  We were greeted with great honor and respect.

Our medical team treated many people.  There were cases of malaria, women with female issues, infections, a lot of arthritis, much high blood pressure, asthma and many other respiratory issues, infertility, fever, heart problems, cataracts, glaucoma, lung problems, dehydration and the list could go on and on.  Our doctors (Kennedy, Felix, and Zach) lovingly treated each of these people with the precision and grace that God gave them.  The task could be overwhelming – so much need and so little to throw at the need.  You must remember that our medical equipment consists of what these guys bring in their hands as well as the medicine we bring.  What we bring in the suitcases that must get through customs is very important.  That is why we ask you to pray for the safe arrival of all that we bring.  We can not afford to lose one bottle of medicine.  That might be the bottle of amoxicillin that kills an infection and changes a person’s life.

The pharmacy is a work of art.  The people bring the prescriptions that the doctors write and they are filled – if we have not run out of the medication.  I know that we ran out of malaria medication several times.  Somehow Dr. Okere and Ukpong (our pharmacist and prayer warrior) found and purchased more medication.  It takes many hands to make the pharmacy work.  It is intense because the people are waiting and sometimes they must wait a long time.  As the day draws to a close it becomes more challenging.  People will inevitably show up at the last minute and expect to get medication without being seen by a doctor.  It is very difficult to stop and close the clinic.  It hurts your heart, but it is necessary.  James, Jonathan and C.Y. are the assistants to Ukpong.  They worked very hard today.  In some ways this work could seem a little mundane until you remember that the delivery of medication may be the lifeline for some of these people. 

There was a large group of children for Megan to work with.  Some of the children were out of school, but most of them were in school which was next door.  Some of them would sneak out of their school to come over and be with Megan.  A ball and a Frisbee are universal in drawing a crowd of children.  Gary took an occasional break from pictures and video to play a little music and do some illusions for the kids.
The prayer and counseling room was busy today.  Many diseases were prayed over.  People came to faith in Christ.  Spiritual bondage was broken and demons cast out.  The power of God was evident in many instances.  People received prayers of restoration and blessing.  The pastor of the church, Rev. R.O.  Alozie, was with me for most of the day.  He is a very kind and compassionate man who walks in the love of Jesus.  He knows the people of his village very well.  He is man of prayer.  Once you are in his presence, you can feel the anointing of God upon his life.  Dr. Amadi also assisted us today as did C.Y.  Each of these men adds his own Godly flavor to the prayer room.  I enjoyed spending this time with God and these men as we prayed.  My cup was full.  At the same time, the Lord let me see a little bit of the great need of these people.  The whole thing would be too much.  Please pray for our Lord to continue to work in the lives of these people.

Today was the last day of the clinics.  When I originally looked at the list while still in the US, I thought it would be an easy schedule, but several times it became a little overwhelming to the team.  I underestimated the depth and breadth of the need.  Even though I have been here and to other third world countries, I fell victim to looking at the situation only through the eyes of a westerner.  How soon we forget!  This is not the West.

Owerri 8 Wednesday



Our team went to two places today.  The medical team went to a village about an hour away.  They officially treated about 124 people.  There were not quite as many cases of malaria.  They met in an open community building in the middle of the village.  The people had never seen free medical care.  They thought we were going to be there for two days, so some of them were waiting until the next day. I know this was very disappointing when they found out they were mistaken.  In the US we take for granted many of the services that are easily available to us.  Medical care and medicine are like gold in Nigeria.

 The King of the village was very helpful and grateful that we came.  He seemed to be a very kind man who had the interests of his people at heart.  Megan had a good group of kids.  They love her.  This clinic was the most organized of the clinics so far.  This was a reflection of the attitude of the King.  

The other part of our team went to the Baptist Theological School.  This was a highlight for me.  The school is located outside of Owerri.  It is an old school by Nigerian standards – it is 49 years old.  Dr. Amadi was a student there as well as a professor.  We were greeted with open arms and great love.  Gary played a beautiful version of Amazing Grace on his pocket trumpet.  Music is the universal language.  You could just feel any perceived differences melt away as he played.  I gave an address to the assembled student body and faculty on “Hearing the Voice of God.”  I was warmly and enthusiastically received. 

We then met with the Rector of the school and the faculty.  We presented gifts we had brought for them: Greek and Hebrew lexicons, commentaries, original language grammars, Greek New Testaments, a laptop computer and several other devices for teaching.  All of this was very graciously received.  The president of the Nigerian Baptist Convention was there.  Both he and his wife are professors at the school.  He is a man of great wisdom and keen insight.  His personal words to us were very encouraging.  He said “I know you did not plan all of this on the way to the airport.  You must have carefully planned all of this in order to bring all these things to us.  This makes me happy because I know that you have been thinking of us since you left here two years ago.  It would be easy to forget about us since we are so out of the way.  We thank God for you.”  I have not been able to forget his face or his words.  They struck me deep in my heart.
We were able to get to the internet café at the hotel in Owerri.  I apologize that we have not been able to be more regular with the posts.  It is difficult.  But, with as much progress as Nigeria is making, I am sure that easier internet access is just around the corner.

Last night several of the ladies at the hotel braided Megan’s hair for her.  They had been wanting to do this for several days. They wanted her to have an African look to take back home.  Zach brought out his guitar and we sang and laughed and had a good time together.  The wife of the hotel manager told me “You seem to feel free here – you can be yourselves.” That was a great compliment.

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Owerri 7


Today we split into two groups.  Our medical team went to Ihiagwa Baptist’s facility to set up the clinic.  They were there until very late.  They treated 192 people officially.  They also did several surgical procedures today.  Jonathan Barnes (James and Bethany’s older brother) handled the prayer and counseling today.  He prayed for 43 people.  The team was very satisfied and very tired.

Gary, Megan and I went with Dr. Amadi to the Baptist High School.  We were greeted like visiting royalty.  The entire school assembled for a program.  Dr. Amadi is the founder of the school.  Many of them remembered Gary and his trumpet.  He put on a wonderful and very entertaining performance.  He is definitely in his element with children.  We laughed and had a great time.

Megan was called on to give an impromptu address to the school.  She encouraged them in their studies and in the proper treatment of their teachers.  I gave my testimony to the group and called for them to receive Christ.  Many of the children received Jesus as Lord and Savior. 
We met with Principle Samson and the faculty of the school in order give gifts and encouragement to them.  One of the gifts we brought was a laptop computer.  On our last visit two years ago we discovered the need.  Please pray that God will take the seed we have planted and grow it according to His will.  

I just prayed over someone who was very oppressed by the evil one.  The demons do depart when we pray.  Please pray that the people we are ministering to will continue to cooperate with the Holy Spirit and not the invite the demons back to oppress them.

I am sitting here in my room at 10:30 on Tuesday night listening to the rain fall outside my open window.  It’s like air conditioning.  All is at rest.

D

Owerri 6 – Monday



Our clinic began this morning at about 9:00 am.  The assistant to the Director of Public health for the State officially opened the clinic.  Ladies from the village treated us to a ceremonial dance which was later joined by several team members.

Our doctors officially treated 149 patients today.  There were many cases of malaria.  But I’ll not attempt to describe what they did.  Suffice it to say – they treated all manner of illness.  We prayed for the healing of many people.  We saw God do instantaneous and miraculous things – as supported by immediate testimony.   Healing and deliverance were the norm and not the exception. I prayed for many people who were troubled by demonic attacks in the night.  God freed them and gave them peace.  Please pray that each of these people will maintain their freedom in Christ.

Two of the local evangelists joined me for part of the day along with my translator Imoh.  It was a joy ministering with these guys.  Their names are Pastor Life and Pastor Peace. We prayed most of the day.  What time spent not praying was spent in a mini Pastor’s Conference. The time spent encouraging and listening to the pastors and other men of God was one of the most enjoyable things I do.
Our medical team runs like a well-oiled machine.  An ant hill is less efficient: triage to doctors to pharmacy – with a stop somewhere in the mix for prayer.  It is hard work and rather intense.  Please pray for every team member to be sharp and at the top of their game.  We are treating the whole man.  Each night we rest and then go at it again.

 Dusty

Owerri 5 - Sunday



What a day we have had today!  We had a very good night’s rest.  We began our day with breakfast together as a team – boiled eggs, bread and coffee with a little honey thrown in. 

We were a little late leaving for the church service as our transportation was delayed.  When we arrived at the meeting place of The Owerri Community Baptist Church, I was amazed.  Where there was once just an open air building on dirt, now stands a building with windows and doors – very important in the rainy season.

The small building was packed.  By the time everyone arrived, the overflow seating on the side of the building had to be used.  This was a very special service.  Dr. Amadi called it “Marriage Memorial En Masse.”  He had invited couples who were married 40 years or more to celebrate their marriage and renew their vows.  There were several visiting dignitaries as well as a reporter and camera crew from the local TV station in Owerri.

Gary and Zach played and sang several songs with the help of James, Michael, and Jonathan.  They sounded almost angelic (keyword is “almost”).  They were very well received.  Our guys were in the zone – the Holy Spirit zone.

The preacher for the day was received very well also.  The message was one of encouragement to the celebrated couples.  The Gospel was preached.  People were saved and prayers for healing were offered to our Lord.  The Spirit of God was powerful in the place.

Immediately following the preaching part of the service I was interviewed by a local TV reporter.  She was very curious about our reason for coming and what we thought of Nigeria.  I hope I did will not scare them too much when they see it on TV.  I had a Holy Spirit glow and extreme perspiration glow.

Megan and I were honored with the gift of traditional Nigerian clothing which they proceeded to help us put on.  It was a very entertaining event.  I don’t know who enjoyed it more – them or us.  The love and joy that was in the room was very evident.  It seemed more like kin people from out of town swapping a few stories and exchanging some gifts.

We left promptly from the service and proceeded to the home of Dr. Amadi.  Mrs. Amadi had prepared a delicious meal for us.  The rest and relaxation was quite refreshing.  The service had lasted about three hours. 
This afternoon we traveled to Akpa Ibom to begin a clinic at Ukpong’s village (Ukpong is our pharmacist).  Ukpong’s brother did a wonderful job of hosting us.

Dusty

Owerri 4 – Saturday


It is 11:00 pm on Saturday.  I think everyone is in bed.  It has been a great day.  We arrived at the place we are staying in Ihiagwa at about 3:30 pm.  It was a great reunion with our Jesus kin in Nigeria.  To see the genuine smiles of joy and greeting along with the hugs was fantastic.  These folks have taken us into their hearts.  I bless them and thank God for the little bit of heaven this side of glory.

Tonight a spontaneous time of worship broke out in Gary’s room.  Guitars, trumpets, flutes – you know what I mean – just singing unto the Lord.  A brother and sister who sing in a reggae band were across the hall.  They joined in.  It was sweet!

We will be at the Owerri Community Baptist Church in the morning for the “Celebration of Marriage En Masse.”  Couples who have been married for 40 years or more will be in attendance.  I can’t wait.  Well I am going to bed now.  I hope to find a connection soon so I can send these posts.

Dusty

Owerri 3 – Saturday morning


It is Saturday morning.  We had a great night of sleep.  We are sitting at the local airport waiting on our flight to Owerri.  We had to pay more to get all our luggage through the airline.  Our flight will leave at about noon or when it fills whichever comes first.

I chatted this morning with a church planter/pastor at the hotel.  His church meets on Sundays at the hotel.  The name of the church is Redeemer Church of God.  He said that people in Lagos were open to the Gospel.  He was quite interested in what we were doing.

Megan attracted the most attention at the airport security.  We did not understand what they were asking her.  But all of us went through security quickly.

James is passing out Slim Jims right now – making sure we will have indigestion the rest of the day.  Gary is eating stuff out of his bag. The people have been very hospitable to us.  One of the security officers asked where I was from.  “Georgia” I said.  He replied “I’m going there one day.”  

I will attempt to get online again very soon.  I don’t know how difficult that will be in Ihiagwa.

Please pray for us to see things through the eyes of Jesus.

Monday, March 21, 2011

The team


To help pray specifically for the team here are the names of those who traveled to Nigeria:

Kennedy Okere,MD
Felix Acholonu,MD

Zachary Cohen- Senior Medical student
Owoidogho Ukpong- Pharmacy
James Barnes- Pharmacy
Leslie Okere-Mission Field coordinator along with the Okere's 3 children
Jonathan Barnes- Counselor
Gary Strickland- Videographer
Michael Bonifacio- Medical assistance
Rev.Dr Michael Reynolds- Head of Evangelism
Megan Reynolds- Pharmacy assistance

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Owerri 3- Latest news



Latest news via Dusty's phone call to Audrey:

After spending the night in Lagos, the team arrived in Owerri safely.  The Sunday morning service was wonderful - Dusty preached and our guys(James, Jonathan-James' brother, Michael, Zach-med. intern & Gary) sang for the service.  Dusty said there were many dignitaries and this was a very special service - there were five or six folks that were saved!!!  Also, they had a ceremony for couples that were married over 40 years.  The team had bought gifts for each couple and, to use Dusty's words, "they were blown away"!  Dusty was interview for a TV show they will have later in the week.  The couples were also interviewed for this program that will air on Thursday of this week.  At the service, they took Megan and dressed her in the African dress and honored her. 
Dusty was told this was because she was his daughter and was there representing his wife!!!! Hopefully, pictures will come later! 


From here, they traveled to Akpa Ibom state, Ukpong's hometown.  The accommodations there are a little nicer, more like a hotel with air conditioning.  On Monday, the team will do the medical missions in Akpa Ibom and then travel to Ihiagwa late that afternoon. 


Right now, there is no internet in Akpa Ibom so Dusty cannot blog - when the team gets to Ihiagwa, there is a better chance of getting an internet connection and he hopes to be available to blog then and, maybe, send some pictures.  Dusty said to please continue to pray for the team - they have felt the prayers and will need them throughout the week.  Thank you for all you do to make all this possible - what God is doing and is going to do in Nigeria is made possible because His people pray!

Love to each of you,
Audrey

Friday, March 18, 2011

Itinerary


Here is the team's itinerary to help better pray for the group:
 

March 17 - Depart US
March 18 - Arrive Lagos and sleep over
March 19 - Arrive Owerri and rest for the day.
March 20 - After Pastor Dusty's message we will depart for Akpa Ibom state-
                    2 -3hrs drive- Home state of our Lovely Pharmacist Ukpong
March 21 - Medical mission at Akpa Ibom until 4 pm, we depart for Ihiagwa
March 22 - Medical mission at Ihiagwa Baptist Church
March 23 - Medical mission at Ogbenesii- Mbaise
March 24 - Medial mission at Umuoye imerienwe
March 25 - Cultural chieftaincy ceremony in which Dr Kennedy Okere and 
                        his wife Leslie will be honored by the King of Umuoye.
March 26 - Rest
March 27 - Depart for US.

Owerri 2


Well, we arrived safe and sound in Nigeria.  The flight was great.  There were no big problems.  Our luggage arrived safely.
We are now in Lagos, the largest city in Nigeria – about 8 million.  We will spend  the night before our journey to Owerri tomorrow.  It amazes me to see adjacent to the International airport a huge mosque and a huge church building side by side.  It is a reminder of the great division that exists here.
Lagos Airport

Arriving in the daylight hours was great.  There were also not as many people lined up just outside the barricade (many wanting to “help” you).  Dr. Okere did his usual excellent job of getting all his sheep and their equipment through the gauntlet of customs.
The hotel is very comfortable with the usual electricity outages about every 45 minutes.  A good flashlight is indispensable – not that having a flashlight or twelve is important.  We had a nice meal and now everyone else is probably asleep.  I will be too – very shortly.  But, I have an internet connection from a wireless nearby, so I am writing while I can.

I prayed over the hotel and asked God for protection for our team.  I feel at peace right now.  But I must ask you to pray with us about one important thing.  God has shown us that we must prepare for something different on this mission.  I’m not sure what that is.  Ask Him to speak clearly to us all.  You are part of the team.  Your prayers open and shut doors.  So, let’s be vigilant in our prayer. 
We love you and thank God for you!
D

Thursday, March 17, 2011

I Can't Wait....

This begins our Owerri Blog 2011.  We have waited two years to be reunited with our brothers and sisters in Nigeria.  Two years ago I joined Dr. Kennedy Okere in his annual mission adventure to Africa and his home in Imo State, Nigeria.  This was the first time that others from the Sycamore Church had joined with Dr. Okere and Horizon International Mission on the work in Nigeria.  Gary Strickland, Laura Armstrong (now Mrs. Howard Griffin), Dr. Lafayette Burks, and James Barnes were part of this team.  God blessed us in fabulous ways.  People received Jesus as Savior.  People were healed, set free, and delivered.  God used medicine.  He used treatment.  But under it all were the prayers of God’s people.  A link was established on this side of Heaven that cannot be severed. We are family!

Today we leave for Nigeria.  We depart at 7:30 pm and will arrive in Lagos, Nigeria on Friday afternoon.  We spend the night there and then travel on Saturday (a short flight) to Owerri – where I will kiss the ground and thank God that He has brought us through.

I can’t wait to see The Reverend Dr. Clement Amadi – my boss in Nigeria.  I can’t wait to see the look on Dr. Okere’s face as he stares at the throngs of people that will come out for treatment at the clinics.  I can’t wait to see all our friends and make new ones.

Please pray for us on Sunday.  Our team will be leading a Marriage Renewal service for those who have been married for 40 years or more.  Audrey and I almost qualify.
We need your prayers day and night.  If God wakes you, pray for us.  Hear His voice and pray.  We thank for your prayers and support that have made this possible by the hand of God. 
John will be monitoring the blog and the web site, so if you have questions – ask!  I will try to get to an internet café several times.  So, pray that will happen.
We especially thank God for our families.  None of us could do this without them.  I don’t know what I would do without Audrey.  So, please pray God’s protection over our families while we are gone.
Many blessings on you!  I love you.

Dusty