Countdown to Congo

Looking at the calendar, it’s hard to believe that my mission trip to the Democratic Republic of Congo is but a month away. I want to thank all who have donated used pairs of eyeglasses for me to take to the people of Congo who have such need but do not have access to eyecare. We have collected plenty of glasses, and I have no more room for additional donations. Everything that has been donated must fit into my luggage, along with clothes for three weeks, Bibles to be distributed in churches, and donated clergy attire for pastors in the Congolese Church.
This trip will be unlike those I have made previously. My mission partner, Pastor Kalonji and I will travel to a region in the Congo where I have never been before. It is somewhat exciting to imagine seeing new places and experiencing new customs as we minister to the people of God. The congregations where we will accomplish the bulk of our mission work are unique in that they do not have any church buildings. These congregations gather outside all year round. No matter the weather, the gospel of Christ is preached to all who would hear it.
I am looking forward to seeing several of the friends that I have made over the years, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic prevented me from making my regularly scheduled trip last year. It has been three long years since my last visit and much has changed within the church. Still, the mission is the same. We will preach and teach the gospel of Jesus Christ, minister to men, women, and children, feed orphans, and free mothers with their newborn babies from hospitals where they cannot afford to pay their out-standing balance due.
Pastor Kalonji and I ask for your prayers as we travel to this far off place. We ask your prayers for safety in travel and for success in our mission work. More than that, we ask that we would bring glory to God’s name as we share this important mission work with you and so many others who have supported us through the years.