THE MASTER’S MISSION

Dear Friends,
We spoke with Jerome yesterday morning and the situation there remains tense and uncertain. While there have been some "peace talks" between the presidents of Congo and Rwanda, there doesn't seem to be much substantive coming from them. If you've followed any of the on line news agencies, you will be aware that the Rebel general, Nkunda, has troops sitting about 6 miles to the north of Goma and about 15 miles to the west. The Center is to the west of Goma about 6 miles, so troops are about 9 miles from the Center.
He has taken more villages and there has been many murders and atrocities. Some of the people killed were members of the Nandi tribe (closely associated with the Hutu's - their sworn enemies). Jerome and his family are Nandi!

Jerome said that it is very tense. He is continuing to go to the Center every day where they are continuing with classes. He said the students are all feeling the stress so he tries to keep them busy with "constructive projects." They are currently planting trees on the property since they cut so many down to use for fire wood and must of necessity replant. They are also tending their gardens and caring for the goats.

Jeff Cole from The Master's Mission was able to send over $2000 to Jerome yesterday for food for all those at the Center. This is due to your great generosity for which we ask the Lord to repay you. As I said in an earlier email, the cost of food has skyrocketed and the supply is limited. Jerome was very grateful to know there would be monies coming and he asked that we pass along his great gratitude and that of those at the Center. In the most difficult of times, they are seeing God provide through brothers and sisters half a world away. It means more than you know.

If the situation worsens and Jerome and his family have to evacuate, we were able to send them monies for that eventuality. His plan is to drive into Rwanda (the border is only a few miles away) and then go north into Uganda and back west into northern Congo to a town called Beni where he has family.

John and I are leaving today for a short trip to Florida to see our granddaughters, my sister, and some dear friends. We had already arranged for coverage at work and the way was opened for us to go. Our hearts are somewhat divided - we should have been in Congo and feel sad about that but we surely will appreciate some time for R & R with family and friends.

We will continue to be in touch with Jerome by phone while we're away and if there is anything significant to report, we'll be in touch. Otherwise, you can track the situation yourself on the web. And please continue to PRAY. They are counting on it!!