Saturday in Yabus

First night was restless for some. Though those not sleeping got to hear drum beats, barking dogs, crying babies, braying donkeys, and in the morning, rats scurrying around the tin roof and the roosters. Rick found that grass roofed huts are not good for hay fever, so he’s been moved to a tent, where he’s had to chase away an ant colony that had taken residence underneath.

Today we all split up. Phalice took Rick and Peter into town as she had some sorghum to be ground. Upon arrival, they found that the grinder had not been working for a few days. Peter was able to figure out what the problem was and helped them make the necessary repairs, using adhesive tape from the first aid kit found in the trunk, etc. Seems rats had chewed through the tubing used for chilling the grinder. When the grinder finally fired up, the sound must have been music to the town’s ears, as while the sorghum was being ground, many people started showing up with their own grains to grind. While in town, Rick broke bread with some Arab Muslim locals. What a special experience.

Meanwhile, back at the camp, Val tried to organize some men on a project, and as he puts it, they ended up organizing him. We arrived to find Val, gainfully employed in the sun, mixing concrete for a hut floor. Seems they had taken advantage of his helpful spirit. Some of the men asked Eli how much Val was getting paid, certain, I’m sure, that he was getting higher wages. They seemed disappointed to find out Val was volunteering. They said “no one works for free.” Val sure showed them.

And the ladies were taken by Bethany and Victoria (with their babies strapped to their backs) down the path to a small community where many of the students live. There we experienced an under the tree gathering. The locals all introduced themselves with an outstretched hand, a smile and a greeting. Men, women and children alike. When we arrived the littlest children were naked, but most were dressed in very ragged clothes by the time we left, about three hours later. In the trees overhead, racks of filleted fish from the river were drying in the sun. In front of one of the huts, an older woman squated (it’s hard to tell ages. She may have been in her fifties, but looked very old. Life here is hard). She was pounding on these things that look like dates, but are very hard and bitter. They have quinine qualities and are used for a cure for malaria. This woman was peeling them and getting the nuts ready to process for oil.

We were seated under a shade tree, and others slowly gathered around. They were all so happy to see Bethany. We shook hands and did our best to visit with all the ones who had brought stools to join us. There were men and women alike. Lots of children, also happy to meet us. After some visiting they wanted their pictures taken. A little girl was very busy holding an infant while the mother was busy with something in her hut. Then this enterprising young girl washed several small juice glasses, while another woman boiled water over a charcoal fire adjacent to where we were sitting. The small glasses were filled halfway with coarse sugar and passed out to us. Then hot tea was added to the glasses and we sat and sipped with the group. Then I looked over and the woman at the fire was sorting through a pan of green coffee beans which then went into a shell of some sort over the fire. Soon we smelled roasting coffee. As we visited, this woman transferred the roasted beans into a container and began pounding them. This time, small coffee cups, half filled with sugar were passed out. Next one of the men came around with a gourd filled with fresh roasted coffee. It was so delicious.

Behind the tree under which we were sitting, were new hut walls. Roofless though. Bethany explained that the home was being built by a woman with four children whose husband had left two years ago. Nobody was sure where he had gone. Apparently this happens quite often. Anyway, no more than fifteen minutes after Bethany told that story, I noticed a man in soldier uniform coming down the path behind. This caught my eye as we have heard about problems with the army in this area. A few minutes later the man came to join us under the tree, with a child in his arms. Turns out it was the husband of the woman building the hut. He had been in the army and told us he had built a home in a place about two days bike ride away. He was planning to move his family there. The wife had gone to gather grass for the roof and had not seen his return yet. We were all caught up in the romance of the moment, guessing we would see a joyous reunion. The man sat with us a while, with his child (photo at left), but eventually left. Shortly after that the wife returned and came to join us under the tree. Bethany asked if she was excited to see her husband. She was not. Said she didn’t want to see him. She’s probably a little angry about being left to raise the four children with no notice. It’s a bit of a pinch me moment to be there to witness all this. What are the chances of being there when the missing returned? However, it was not a Prodigal son moment! We visited a while later, then asked permission to leave. We were graciously excused and wandered back to the SIM camp. Here, we just had our first camp lunch: rice and a lentil stew, which I understand we will have every day. It was good, though will probably loose its charm after the sixth or seventh day in a row. Now we are in the hottest part of the day where we rest. Hanna is having her hair braided by Victoria. Tonight we will have a fire after dinner and discuss plans for church tomorrow.

Into Yabus

Yabus!

Thursday we had our last breakfast in the Free Pentecostal Guest House, following a great devotional by Dean. We did yet another sorting and repacking because we heard that we would be allowed less weight into Loki than we had originally thought. Then the team that was going to run out and pick up burgers from Wimpies (yes!) walked to the wrong shopping plaza, then got lost, a few times. They finally had to order a cab and drive around to familiar territory before they could find their way back, and so lunch arrived about the same time as the van did to drive us to the airport. However, nobody got hurt this time, and we made it to the airport. Stuart, a fine young Scottish gentleman who has been working with SIM, joined us as he is going into Doro for his next stint. He recently completed several months in Yabus so he was able to give us a preview of what to expect.

At the airport, God had our back: no complaints about our extra pounds. We took off on time, in about an 18 seater plane. A nice round of “Happy Birthday” was sung by all plane occupants for Rick. A little choppy going up and descending, but in between it was smooth. As we descended into Loki (Lokichoggio) it really felt like we had finally arrived in Africa. In other words, we were landing in a town in the middle of nowhere. Getting closer we saw small circles which were fences built around huts and compounds. Eventually, near a river, near a ridge, several buildings were spotted, and then the landing strip.

We were greeted by Debbie (the aforementioned SIMmer heading to Theangriol) and Leah, who is SIM logistics person in Loki. We unloaded all our things and headed to the storage crate where the boxes we had sent ahead had been kept. We had to weigh all our personal bags and declare our own personal body weight (mortifying…but not a good time to be dishonest). When all this weight was totaled Leah figured that we had to shed a certain amount of kilos, so we sorted and repacked again. More items were left in the crate and we think they will be arriving around the 10th.

Then we hopped a taxi (well, really three) and headed to the guest house. Driving through town, there was a mix of people (different tribes), business shacks, a very rutted main road. Just a typical day in town. Dean, Andrew and Stuart went off in another truck to change money and pick up food supplies for Doro. The taxis we were in turned off the main road, seemed to just go over the side of the road really, headed down a rutted creek bed and then arrived at a gate which was the guest house compound. We were greeted there and checked into our rooms. Deborah and Clair and a few other SIMers heading out to other posts were also there. Our rooms were simple, clean, two to a room, mosquito nets provided. Showers and squatty potties at one end of the compound. Settled in and then gathered up again for taxi rides to go out to a nice dinner at African Experience, fondly referred to as “Afex.” Had a lovely dinner outside. Addition to our group were about six other SIM missionaries and two families (wives and children) of missionaries (from Ethiopia) currently stationed in Abwong, where violence has broken out and so the fathers have sent the women there to live until safe to return (these are really long sentences and I know constructed poorly, but I am tired and have so much to catch you up on so please bare with. Spelling too!) Dinner was all you can eat buffet: the stew that seems to be served at all meals, some grilled meat, soups, cooked vegetables, watermelon, custard. One more round of “Happy Birthday” sung to our fearless leader by all around the table. When we got ready to leave one of the taxis had a flat tire (understandable, given the roads) so we waited around for the change. Back to the guesthouse, showers and a fitful night sleep. It was plenty hot.

We got up early and headed to Leah’s home at the SIM compound for a good breakfast and fellowship. We got word that the plane we were to catch was running behind so we stayed a little longer, played with the children. Dean and Val took a little walk and got stopped by the police for questioning. Police presence is heavy in Loki (we know of others who have had cameras taken, etc.). Fortunately, they were let go without too much trouble but Val was happy he didn’t have his camera on him.

From there we went to the airport. Got our passports checked for travel into Sudan, went out to the storage crate and went through things….again. Had to get rid of a few boxes for later delivery. However, we had a few bags that we put on the dolly to be added to the plane if it was ok with the pilot. The plane arrived, unloaded, we loaded. The few things that were “iffy” got on, and we were off. Flight was uneventful. Flying over Southern Sudan, we realized how remote we will be. No roads. Just brush, an occasional river bed, some huts here and there, and finally the landing strip at Yabus, which really was in the middle of nowhere. Eli Fader and a few of the locals with the school were waiting for us. Unloaded our gear into the Yabus truck, and then said our farewells to Andrew, Dean and Stuart. We rode on our stuff in the back of the truck. The roads were a mess. Cannot imagine what it would be like in the wet season. The ruts were wild. We went through a dry river bed: just like a roller coaster. Ducking the thorn trees stretching over the road. As we got closer to the town, we passed many women, carrying loads on their heads and babies on their backs. Everybody called out and waved. Children ran to get their hands touched. Big smiles all around. “Hello” and “How are you” rang out. Outside of the town we came to the river that separates the SIM compound from the main town. Water was low enough so we could drive over the bridge but all around women washing, boys fishing, kids swimming. Another roller coaster ride and we were through and entering the SIM compound. Phalice and the other missionary staff were all waiting our arrival. It’s always so nice to have people waiting to see you! All so friendly, beautiful. Hands to help unload.

We’ve now settled in. We are definitely in a village but it’s impressive how all have made this a home. Beds and mosquito nets waiting for us. The men are in their own tukil (grass roof, mud walled hut). We are all with Phalice. Quite a palace: a nice screened in front porch, two beds in two rooms. A shower at one end of the building (which is basically a bucket with a spout that you climb up and turn on and refill when done. Sun warmed. And further down the path, the potty. Not a flusher but has a seat! (Hope this isn’t TMI, but only helpful for you to imagine). We’ve already held babies, sat and visited with the missionaries and women, ate a communal dinner: ugali (the staple that is like very thick cream of wheat), fish stew and fried fish.

I am having a very had time uploading pictures so will keep trying, but in the meantime, words will have to suffice. It’s actually miraculous to me that we are even able to keep in contact with the internet. Tomorrow, Saturday, some will walk into town with Phalice to get some sorghum ground, a few of us are walking with Bethany Fader to visit with the women and children, wives of the students of the BELC. I’ve been promised a cooking lesson over charcoal. Maybe on Sunday.

Well, the internet is out for the night. Hopefully we can post this in the morning.

Wednesday in Nairobi

This was a day of extremes. From the Kibera slum to dinner at a fine restaurant, our day was plentiful. Breakfast at the guest house was followed by our group devotional, led by Andrew. 1 Corinthians 4: 14…++. This was followed by a very moving and special witness by Debbie, currently serving SIM in Theangreol. We have been awed and inspired by the people whom we’ve met who are willingly and graciously doing God’s work in the Sudan and Kenya.

We then walked to the SIM offices to take care of some business. Unfortunately we had another team member go down on the walk to the office. We lost one to the sewer yesterday and one to a pothole today. An Ace bandage and Neosporin was procured and we are hopeful of a full recovery. At the SIM office, our team members who are going to Doro (Dean and Andrew) met with the medical director and found out more about their assignments. Perhaps it may have been better if one of their major assignments was kept as a surprise. Apparently the latrine in Doro is nearing capacity and a new one is badly in need of digging. They have a (word I’ve been asked not to use) job ahead!

Then we arranged for a driver to take us to a small shopping center. There, at a sort of international food court, we settled on Indian fare, which was quite good. Next we went to procure the last necessitites needed for our flight into Sudan: toilet paper, mosquito nets and rat poison. What a telling combination!

Next, we had the special experience of going into the Kibera slum. If you’ve seen the movie “The Constant Gardner” this is the place. We were taken in by Raul, who has a ministry that focuses on bringing the gospel to the Muslims in Kabari. Kibera is home to approximately 1-million, the second largest slum in the world (I’m assuming the first is in India). Our preconceived ideas of being swarmed by aggressive, pick-pocketing beggars were not what we experienced. Adults humbly went about their business, running shops selling things you would never expect to be sold in shops, many hairdressers, frightening butcher shops, linens. Several churches. Stores were mostly mud or tin faced, with corrugated tin roofs. The outer layers of the slum were relatively garbage free, but the further we got in, the more trash we encountered. All in all though, not too bad. The ground was rough with water running randomly across and beside. But the most remarkable thing were the children. “How are you” (imagine in a pinched English accent) ringing out wherever we went. Little hands reaching out for a shake. Enormous smiles and shy grins. All they wanted was to be acknowledged. School was just getting out and we crossed paths with so many happy little children. Though some were accompanied by mothers, most were seemingly on their own, happily holding hands and laughing. Some running ahead and alongside our group. Just wanting to greet us. We did not take so many pictures, as it seemed more genuine to relate than to snap and the we tried to be sensitive to the conditions and the adults around. This is something that we will have to remember more in our hearts than on film. The conditions are so very rough. The children so happy. The adults so tired. In one area there was a great deal of activity. Near the edge of the railroad track. Great big panels of corrugated tin were being fastened over the side of the hill. As we looked over the expanse, huge plastic prints of eyes were strewn over the roofs of slum huts below. We found out a French NGO was preparing to shoot a film. The tin on the side of the hill would be covered with these large banner prints of eyes too and a helicopter was to fly over to do the film. A strange thing to happen upon.

We shook many hands through the slum, left hands even as the children put out whatever wasn’t being used to carry backpacks. We met our driver at the other side and when out of sight disinfected (just want our families to know we are being careful). And then returned to the guest house to rest for a few hours before being picked up for dinner. Dinner tonight was at the Carnivore, the best known restaurant in Nairobi. We experienced a multi-course meal. Since we expect to have not much more than beans and rice for the next few weeks this was probably the ultimate opposite. Here, many gracious waiters, in safari get up, were attentively serving this multi-course all you can eat meal. Hang on. Here is the list of what we were offered (the meat being served from large skewers, carved right at the table): cornmeal sticks with tomato chutney; bread rolls and butter; a green salad with vinaigrette; salad; small side dishes of corn, rice, collard green like vegetable; baked potatoes; barbequed pork rib; ostarich meatballs; pork loin; turkey; sausages; chicken livers; chicken; crocodile; alligator (note, not served in this order, just trying to remember); beef; lamb (fortunately all meat pieces were small so you could try everything you wanted and not leave much on the plate uneaten); choice of dessert (the fruit sorbet was the winner); coffee or tea.

Now we are back and most have retired. Internet is VERY slow and not very stable. Things taking forever to load and mostly disconnecting so I will post for tonight (Inshallah) first without pictures, and then, if possible add those in later.

Oh, and thank you to those leaving messages on the blog. We've gotten them all and it's so nice to hear from home!

WE MADE IT!

After a nice send off from our families, we checked in all the boxes and luggage. The special arrangements for additional weight and pieces were honored and we all cleared security quickly. The North West flight from Seattle to Amsterdam was not full so we could spread out for a more comfortable ride. The second leg was on KLM, and again, no problems. We arrived in Nairobi and had to go through the exercise of getting our Visas to enter. This is done rather archaically, taking several minutes to clear each person. They only work in us $$ and one poor couple ahead only had Euros, so we were able to accommodate them, as Euros will be needed later on by a team member going to Europe in the future. We were able to get a limited Visa, which allowed us entry for $20, instead of the $50 we were expecting. By the time the last of us got our Visas the first had retrieved all of our luggage…yes all of it! All pieces arrived untampered. Then, as a group, we headed through Kenya customs. Rick explained to the fellow there our mission and he waved us all through, no questions asked. We were greeted by Clair, SIM personnel, who showed us to a large bus. All boxes and luggage were lifted to the racks on top of the bus and we were off.

First we had to adjust to riding on the “wrong” side of the road, as here it’s opposite than what we are used to. Just as soon as we were convinced we were not going to be in a head-on, the driver slammed on his brakes as a zebra darted across the road! A herd of about 8 were standing by the side to welcome us into Africa. The road from the airport runs through Nairobi Animal Park.

We headed to the SIM office to drop off the large boxes which are being flown out to Lokichoggio before us. We had to do a bit of baggage repacking and the backpacks that had been donated were put to good use as we loaded them up with some of our extra gear (weight limitations on our next flights are less than what we were allowed for our international flight from the states). After that we were taken to our local housing: the First Pentecostal Free Church Guest House. This is a nice little compound, with maybe about 20 rooms (?). Accommodations, though not the Hyatt, are nice (clean and safe) and most rooms have their own bath and shower. As soon as we dropped off our suitcases we were shown to the dining room where we were served a lovely dinner that they had been holding for our arrival. We had a delicious spread of creamy yellow mashed potatoes, a corn meal cake/porridge, a stew and local greens (much like collards). Also enjoyed were the large bottles of water that we were so happy to have. Ending the evening, we all headed to our respective rooms and collapsed!

In the morning, our light breakfast was followed by a team devotional, which Rick led. This was followed by an orientation meeting, facilitated by Clair. We were fed another wonderful meal at the Guest House (this time fries from those same wonderful yellow potatoes), a cabbage and carrot salad and fresh fried tilapia. I am not sure how my plan for losing weight in Sudan is going to go with such good food (so far) offered at every meal. Up to this point, our exposure had been pretty limited, just a night drive and being well taken care of at the Guest House. However, we walked, as a group to the SIM offices, guessing about a half mile away. Here we got to see a little of the locals, small little shops set up on corners, beggars with mangled feet with their hands out, and some rather aggressive urchins looking for a hand out. But mostly just everyday people going about their every day business, walking to and from the market. The weather was very pleasant though enough sun to darken our skin a little bit. One of the team learned a lesson about watching your step as she stepped off the curb to cross the street and right into a drainage hole in the curb. God was good and only plopped her down on her seat, letting her keep her ankle intact and she didn’t even loose her shoe to the sewer below. Close call.

There was a buzz of activity at the SIM office compound. We were just a handful of the many visitors. One gets the feeling that people come and go in great numbers through the offices and they are quite adept at welcoming hospitality and conducting important business at the same time. We met several missionaries stationed at several Cities. We got an orientation from Jimmy Cox and also took care of some financial business. From here we were driven to the house of Chris and Beverly Crowder where we were given a brief presentation on health (like how to protect it while in Southern Sudan) and local custom and culture. An awesome Ethiopian meal, prepared by Beverly, was served and we were joined by several impressive young adults who live in the compound. Jet lag was catching up with several members (not naming names!) and so we returned to our quarters at the guest house, where some have retired to bed, and others are busy corresponding with loved ones or, in this case, catching the blog up. We have taken some pictures but the camera is across the compound so for now will just try to paint the picture for you with words. We will see more of Nairobi tomorrow and use one more day to rest up before we make the next leg of our journey. Oosiquila (which I think is the phonetic spelling of what the guys in the kitchen just told me to say, signing off in Swahili). “Oosiquila”

Comments to leave?

The blog hosting program, blogger, is not the most friendly set up for leaving comments. At the end of each blog entry there's a place that says "0 comments" (or some other number if we've received any). You can click on that and you will see a box where you can type a comment. If you have a gmail account or are a blogger then you can answer under that option. But if you don't have that or any of the few options it also gives you, you can leave the comment under the "anonymous" option. Just don't forget to sign your name at the end of the comment if you want us to know who you are! You may also be prompted to type in a word that is shown. That's set up so that the site isn't overwhelmed with computer generated spam stuff. Sorry it's not easier to comment. We feel your frustration! But we sure would love to hear any thoughts or things you want to share. If there's a number showing you can click on that and see what comments others have left. Your comment, should you want to leave one, will appear there. Be aware that others reading the blog can see your comments as well. It's a great way for us to see who is following the journey. Just one more great way to support the team! Thanks so much....

It Takes a Village....

...to send our team to a village! Just one more day and then we are out of here. Getting us to the point where we board that plane...well it takes a village of families, friends, neighbors and co-workers. Our families support the funding of our trip, take care of each other and our personal business, support us emotionally, mentally and physically as we prepare. Family members hosted our team during our preparation meetings...fantastic meals were served and hospitality abounded. What love it took in accepting and supporting our decisions to go. This is not a quick trip to Vegas! We are going to a place that isn't easy to get to or to maintain communications from. There are concerns about health and safety. At home bills must be paid, houses maintained, children and pets cared for. We recognize the sacrifices you make leading up to and during our adventure. And I suppose you will have to put up with some adjustment factors when we return home to the nest. So thank you for all that.

Neighbors and friends have jumped in to help take care of our families, our homes, our pets. They have provided personal items for the trip and supplies for the village we are going to. Funds have come from friends that help make this trip possible. And knowing that we are in your thoughts and prayers makes it so much sweeter to get on that plane.

Co-workers take on the extra responsibility to make sure projects and clients are left in good hands. It gives us peace of mind to know that our professional commitments will be covered. It is so wonderful to work with people who support our journey. Your interest in the effort and willingness to do what it takes to get us out of town means so much. Financial support also came from co-workers. You are absolutely wonderful. Knowing you "have our back" makes the thought of returning to the job almost palatable! Thank you for all that and more.

None of us could make the commitment to take on this humanitarian effort without the support of our village. Thank you and bless you for your immeasurable support!

I Need You To Survive

At the MLK service at FPCB, we joined hands with our brothers and sisters from Mt. Calvary Christian Center, and closed with this song. This is a good song to go into our trip with. (Can be downloaded from I-Tunes and will definitely be playing on my I-pod as we head over the ocean)

I Need You to Survive (Hezekiah Walker) :

I need you, you need me. We're all a part of God's body. Stand with me, agree with me. We're all a part of God's body. It is his will that every need be supplied. You are important to me, I need you to survive. You are important to me, I need you to survive. I need you, you need me. We're all a part of God's body. Stand with me, agree with me. We're all a part of God's body. It is his will that every need be supplied.You are important to me, I need you to survive. You are important to me, I need you to survive. I pray for you , you pray for me. I love you, I need you to survive. I won't harm you with words from my mouth. I love you, I need you to survive. It is his will, that every need be supplied. You are important to me, I need you to survive.

All Our Bags Are Packed...We're Ready To Go...

Well almost. There are the final preparations: the last few things to gather up; the last few loose ends to tie up; the last few bases to cover. But, for the most part, all items have been gathered and the large boxes packed. The good news is that all the items that had been procured and donated were able to fit into the item number and weight limitations we had to work in. Part of this was possible due to special arrangements through relatives and airlines that allowed us to bring on the needed bridge parts without counting against either limit and some additional weight allowed on two boxes. What a God-send. Literally! It is good to have an ex military man on the team who has lived through the logistics of large group deployment to keep us all organized, inventoried, ordered and packed. Soon we can finish the title song...'cause we're leaving, on a jet plane....

Inshallah

in·shal·lah
Pronunciation:
\ˌin-shä-ˈlä\
Function:
foreign term
Etymology:
Arabic in shā' Allāh
: if Allah wills : God willing

Preparing to return to Sudan, the phrase "Inshallah" comes to the front of my mind, to the tip of my tongue. Inshallah = God willing. As I remember, in Sudan, nearly every statement is followed by this expression. It hints at the unpredictability of how things will go. It reminds us that planning is just that: planning and not necessarily how things will go. We say what we want: how we intend things to go. But in the end it is in God's hands. "The plane will leave at 2:00. God willing." "We will have rice for dinner. God willing." "We will meet with the elders in an hour. God willing." You know, that's not a bad approach. An audible, automatic recognition that we are in the hands of God.


While we have plans for this trip, God has his own. And it is good to remind ourselves, as things go according to plan, or not, that God's got our back. That things are going as He has willed. This week, as we finish up all the details of our preparations; as we struggle over decisions as to what fits in and what gets left behind; as we do our best to get our work lives buttoned up and projects covered; as we make leave of our families and friends and do our best to take care of their needs while we are gone: let's not forget that things will be OK, as God has willed, not necessarily as we have planned. Here's to our final week of preparation. May it go smoothly. Inshallah!

Travel Itinerary

For those who are keeping track of our travel, the following schedule gives the calendar details. You will note once we are in Sudan the calendar is fairly open. We do know that we will be there during (and to help with) a major celebration for the school. We understand local officials, dignitaries and SIM officers will be in attendance. We think the celebration will take place around February 11, near the end of our stay. There are lots of things we plan to accomplish while in Yabus and Doro, but those will be on God’s time. That’s a good attitude to adopt when in Sudan. Social interaction takes precedence over agendas and schedules. It will take a mental adjustment for us “westerners” who are oft driven by our “to do” lists and rely on the clock and schedules in our everyday life. My hope is that we will be able to update the blog frequently to keep you posted on how that adjustment is going.

Calenberg Team Schedule:
Sunday, January 25: Southern team contingent flies to Seattle. Joins rest of team to depart to Amsterdam.
Monday, January 26: Arrive in Amsterdam, 2.5 hour layover, and then fly to Nairobi
Tuesday, January 27: Day in Nairobi at SIM guest house or other accommodations
Thursday, January 29: transport to Lokichoggio, Kenya (near Sudanese border) and stay night there or (see next day)
Friday, January 30: transfer to smaller plane and fly into Yabus. Part of team continues on to Doro.
Friday, January 30 through Wednesday, February 11, in Yabus and/or Doro
Wednesday, February 11, school Celebration (eat goat!)
Friday, February 13, leave Yabus for Lokichoggio, Kenya then transfer and fly to Nairobi
Saturday, February 14 (Valentine’s Day), Sunday, February 15, in Nairobi
Sunday, February 15, evening, leave Nairobi for Amsterdam
Monday, February 16, Amsterdam, 7.5 hour layover, leave for Seattle, arrive Seattle in afternoon. Southern team contingent flies to Portland after 2 hour layover.

Team Member: Kathy

I am a suburban housewife and among the least likely people to be going to Sudan. I have never been to the third world and I have never been on any sort of mission trip. I don’t even go camping. BUT… I have long had a mother’s heart toward the “Lost Boys” of Sudan, and upon meeting Phalice had an immediate heart connection with this woman who would be equipping these now young men to be teachers. When asked by my missions pastor if I would be interested in joining this team, my quick answer was “Yes!” It was a response that can only be described as a God thing! I did not have to ponder and take a long time to make a decision; I felt compelled by God to accept this opportunity. My intention is to help wherever I can, but I fully expect to learn and to gain more than I give. Perhaps 2 Corinthians 12:9 is a good summary: The Lord said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Amen!

Preparation

Our team members were all able to make the meeting. Prayers were answered! We met for nearly six hours, and time flew. So much to do. Lots to prepare. We leave in two weeks! Team members have assembled a variety of donations and purchases that we will bring, space and weight allowing. Supplies include parts for the bridge, materials for the school, medicines for the clinic, food and supplies for the missionary staff. The community has been generous, and team members have all contributed much to support the efforts in Yabus and Doro. Now prayers are needed that we can fit all materials within our weight and baggage limits, that we might be granted additional allowances or that we have the wisdom to determine which materials are most needed, and if is necessary, what to leave behind. We are also so blessed with many financial contributions to help fund the expenses for the mission trip. We thank our contributors and appreciate so much your participation in this effort to show the people in this area of Sudan that they are loved.

Waiting the Locusts

Please pray that our team might have a successful meeting tomorrow. We are scheduled for our last get together before we leave on the trip. Supplies are being assembled and weighed and final preparations are to be made. Our last meeting that was scheduled in December was impacted by the snow: we had to substitute face-to-face time with a conference call. We were grateful to at least have that. That meeting was rescheduled for tomorrow which is to be a day of preparation for the trip as supplies are assembled and weighed and final logistics made, lists checked and double checked and everyone to meet our last team member to join, Kathy. Unfortunately the main highway that connects Portland to Seattle has been shut down for several days due to flooding so it looked like the Portland team would not be able to make the meeting. Alternative plans were explored, including a plane flight (which would make it hard to bring the supplies needed) and not all would be able to make it. However, we just heard that the highway has opened up so perhaps it will all come together.

We know that while in Sudan we will have to be flexible and creative as planning often has to go out the window in these situations. As a team we are being tested on our flexibility and creativity. As much as we need to get together tomorrow, we really need no weather surprises to hinder the team to be able to make the flight on the 25th. I think once we hit Africa snow and flooding will not be issues to contend with. But wondering about those locusts and other various biblical plagues. Our creativity may be sorely stretched. Prayers appreciated!

Team Member: Val

Hello, my name is Val Stewart. I am a Captain in the Vancouver, Washington Fire Department and have been for nearly 30 years. I have been happily married to my lovely wife Patti for 39 years. Two of our gifts from God are one daughter and one son. Heather has blessed us with 4 beautiful grandsons and lives on a cattle ranch in western Washington with her husband of ten years.
Brent is our son who lives in southern California with his wife and they have also blessed us with a grandson. They are both ex-marines and he is presently a police officer in the city of Riverside California.
We are most blessed with the fact they all believe in Jesus and are raising their boys in the ways of Him.
I was saved 43 years ago in my father-in-laws church. One Sunday I am convinced he prepared his sermon with me as the focal point. I am really excited about this mission to the Sudan. I am anxious to see what God has in store for me in this Christ-centered adventure.

God is Tapping...

If you look closely at Dean's picture, this is what you see. I see God tapping on our shoulders, trying to get our attention. He comes in the form of a small Rawandan child, a voice in the night, saying "Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth." (1 John 3:18)

Team Member and Leader: Rick Calenberg

I am the NW Regional Director for SIM and the Sudan Team Leader. I served in Nigeria with SIM for 10 years and have led short term teams in Mexico, Romania, Nigeria, Kenya, Paraguay, China and now Sudan.

The opportunity in Southern Sudan is a unique challenge and I am very grateful for the committed team which the Lord has raised up.

Team Member: Hanna

My name is Hanna Grove and I am so excited to be part of this team. I was born and raised in Dessi Ethiopia. When I was 9 years old, I was adopted by my family in Orange County California. I have a passion for missions and have been on trips to Mexico, Rwanda, Uganda, Barbados, France and Ethiopia. I had the privilege of working with the Uduks at a refugee camp in Bonga Ethiopia and am anxious to reconnect with this amazing tribe in their homeland.

In 2006 I received my degree in Intercultural Studies at Hope International University. I am currently working for the Global Missions Department at Westminster Chapel and am striving to lead a mission minded life.

While in Southern Sudan, I will be partnering with the women and children. I look forward to supporting the education project in Yabus and helping out wherever it’s needed. I have been collecting jerseys and sports equipment for the students at the secondary school and can’t wait to see them in action.

Projects

The two primary projects the team will be focused on are the Health Center in Doro and the Basic Education Learning Center (BELC) in Yabus. Information on these projects, provided here, are from the SIM web site. In addition, we will be assisting with the building of the Yabus Unity Bridge, and helping the school staff plan a big celebration for kicking off the school year.

Basic Education Learning Centers
The Rebuilding Southern Sudan: Basic Education Learning Centers (BELC) Project will bring back schooling for thousands of young people in South Sudan. Part of the Rebuilding Southern Sudan: Church and Nation initiative, this program aims to train up to 200 new teachers in the next five years. African missionaries sent and supported by SIM related churches in Nigeria and Ethiopia are the key players in this project. In April 2006, the first three missionary teams arrived in Sudan to establish the first BELCs. In August 2006, they began teaching accelerated learning programs for adults, laying the groundwork for future teacher training courses.

The BELC Programs will include:
-adult accelerated learning programs
-primary schools
-primary school teacher training
-life-skill training
-adult literacy
-evangelism
-discipleship
-church leadership training
Five Year Goals
Each year for the next five years, more African teacher trainers will be mobilized and sent out to establish BELCs in different communities of South Sudan. This program is designed to quickly place the educational infrastructure in the hands of the Sudanese. SIM will hand over the BELCs by 2011.
By 2011, the project will see:
-150-200 primary school teachers complete their training
-trained teachers establish 50-75 primary schools in different villages
-2,000-3,000 children attending primary school
-800-1000 students complete primary school
-400-500 adults become literate
South Sudan Education

Today The children of South Sudan are eager to learn. However, only 20% of boys and 15% of girls are currently in school. Adults are also pursuing education. Daniel Guda, is an evangelist and chairman of a Sudan Interior Church district. He is currently attending the accelerated learning program, and he wants to be a teacher.
Sudan Interior Church pastors are encouraging young church leaders to pursue teacher training. Equipping church leaders will ensure that the coming generation receives quality education from a Christian perspective.

Memorial Health Care Center and Training School

Restored health care facilities are vital to rebuilding a war-torn land. For this reason, reestablishing SIM medical ministry in the Doro area is a priority of the Rebuilding Southern Sudan: Church and Nation program.
The Memorial Primary Health Care (PHC) Center and Community Health Worker Training School will be named in honor of Dr. Bob Grieve and his wife Claire who were killed when the hospital was bombed during the Second World War.
Restored Medical Service
The Memorial facility will be a Primary Health Care Center, serving one of the most under-served regions in South Sudan.
The general health conditions are overwhelming:
-Immunizations are rarely available
-One in four children will not survive to age five
-A girl is more likely to die during pregnancy and delivery than to complete 8th grade
The Health Center will serve the mostly rural Mabaan population with basic health services, mother-and-child care, immunizations, and initiatives in water, sanitation, and nutrition. In this context, we will proclaim the truth of Christ's transforming love.
The Memorial PHC Center will include:
-30-bed wards for men, women and children
-lab
-pharmacy
-basic surgical capability (for obstetric emergencies)
-outpatient diagnosis and treatment center
Initially, the center will be staffed by three medical missionaries, Dr. Rob Congdon, and two nurses, along with qualified Sudanese staff. A full Sudanese staff will be equipped to run the facility by 2012. The first Sudanese doctor will be trained by Kijabe Hospital in Nairobi, Kenya.

Community Health Worker Training
The Community Health Worker Training School will expand health services further into rural areas. After completing the nine-month program, students will be equipped to start primary health care units. Twenty graduates each year could yield 50 -100 new PHC units by 2012, when the PHC Center and school will be handed over to Sudanese leadership.
In addition to training the workers in community health, the school will strengthen and equip them as Christian leaders. Classes in Bible, evangelism, and spiritual growth will prepare them to reach out to surrounding communities through village health care and evangelism.

Team Member: Peter

I am a child of SIM missionaries and grew up in West Africa. I am an engineer by trade and have been actively involved in missions programs at my local church. I accompanied my daughters on a few of their mission trips during their High School years and thoroughly enjoyed the experiences. Since they have left home, I have gone on several week long trips when my home church became a partner with World Relief in Malawi, Southern Africa. I have enjoyed honest, sincere Christians from other cultures who have far less than we do, who live far simpler than we do, and yet have so much more peace, joy and happiness in their lives and are so giving to others. It refreshes my soul and enables me to reset my attitudes and priorities.

In Sudan, I will be stationed in Yabus where SIM has established a BELC (Basic Educational Learning Center) and a Secondary School (High School). I plan to be working along side the SIM missionaries already there and could be; working as a teacher, teaching Bible classes or computer classes, jumping into a work/study agricultural project with the students, spending time with the students and conversing in English as they learn another language, or helping with the physical premises of the station. I look forward to learning first hand what God is doing in Sudan and plan to join Him in whatever capacity I am needed. I am an amateur photographer and plan to take pictures for our team.

Please pray that God will use my gifts, skills and abilities for His purposes.

Team Member: Andrew

This is my 4th overseas medical mission trip. In my prior trips, I went to a capital city in a Muslim country where I provided anesthesia for pediatric eye surgeries. We gave the blind children a chance to improve their vision through corrective surgeries. My eyes were opened to the mission field from the experiences of these trips! In working alongside the missionaries, I witnessed how they used their skills to heal physically, and at the same time heal spiritually through evangelism and discipleship making. Their humble sacrifice, love for the lost, and obedience to the Great Commission made a great impression on me. From these experiences I realized I could use my professional skills to impact others for God’s Kingdom. I now have a renewed purpose to my Christian life. These trips also inspired me to study what missions meant in the Bible, and I now serve on the Missions Committee at my church (Living Hope Bible).

When Rick Calenberg asked me if I wanted to join this team to go to Sudan, even though I didn’t know anything about the country, this opportunity was an answer to prayer. The country where I served had shut down the NGO, and I have been praying about an opportunity to serve elsewhere. By going on this trip, it will give me an opportunity to learn and serve alongside Rick, as he has been a mentor and a source of encouragement to me in missions.

In Sudan I will be stationed at Doro, where SIM has established a basic health clinic seeing patients with malnutrition, malaria, and various tropical infections. I look forward to seeing what God is doing there and what He will teach me through this trip. I also look forward to learning medicine from the local staff as I have limited knowledge and experience in tropical medicine.

Please pray that God will use my skills to help those in need, and I can be a source of blessing to bring the love of Christ to this war-torn land!

Team Member: Dean

This will be my first trip to Sudan – although I have spent considerable time working in Rwanda over the last 4 years on poverty reduction and reconciliation. I remember after my first time in Rwanda and seeing the results of the 1994 Genocide thinking – “never again”. I had seen so much hate the year before – having just returned from the war in Iraq as an Air Force Reserve casualty evacuation Officer - so the “never again” resonated for me. When I returned to the US a friend of mine who produced the documentaries “Darfur Diaries”
and. “Rebuilding Hope” – both about Sudan - reminded me that genocide was happening again – in Sudan – so much for “never again”. After a second tour in Iraq in 2006 followed by living and working for a Christian NGO for three months in Rwanda, I resolved that if there ever came a chance to do something to help with the “never again” – no matter how small the impact – I would do it. That is one reason why I am on this mission – “never again”.

I think of my role in Sudan as a utility player – helping out in any way the local missionaries or Sudanese need help. Not necessarily being in the spring of my life and having had a very varied career path – I plan on being open to what ever direction God sets for me!