Damascus Trust - Team Rwanda 2015

Wednesday evening and we have just come back from having dinner with Revd Placid and his wife Susannah and their two young boys. Placid is the Bishop's Chaplain and has taken over from Juvenal who has become the sub-dean of the cathedral and the Administrator for the diocese. Juvenal is still our SAP Coordinator working one day a week for us. Our time with Placid and Susannah was good fun with a lovely meal as well.

Earlier in the day we had met with the Bishop and Juvenal to talk about ways to develop our partnership and we have come up with some good plans which we feel are right to pursue. We also went to see the Hannah Ministry where they make baskets, to discuss our plans for the Ubushuti on-line shop. Since Vicky's death, they have missed her leadership and vision at the Hannah Ministry and we can pray that they will find the right person to carry on the work with those who have HIV+ .

Placid and his wife Susannah with Grace and Heather.

From there we had been invited to attend a brief service of thanksgiving for Vicky around the grave, which is just outside the diocesan centre. The diocesan staff attended and were joined by eight bishops from other dioceses, including the Archbishop, who came to show their support for Bishop Emmanuel and his children. We gathered around the grave, sang a couple of songs, had some prayers of thanksgiving and flowers were laid on the grave. In her shortened life, Vicky had influenced many lives and made an impact in the community for the good of God's kingdom. She is greatly missed. Please pray for Bp Emmanuel and the children who still struggle with their loss.

From the service we went down to town to sort out Andy's phone and after about an hour he had a new SIM card cut to the right size and a phone that works! PTL.

Back to the diocesan centre to meet with Verene who oversees the work amongst the Widows and then on to meet with ladies working with Byumba Greeting Cards. Both meetings were useful and we will be able to bring some cards back with us to sell as part of Ubushuti.

Not quite the day of rest that was in the programme, but a good day in so many ways and we thank the Lord for all he is allowing us to ba a part of here. Thank you too for your prayers and for your messages of encouragment on Facebook and by email. Much appreciated,

Ijoro giiza  (Have a good night)! G,H,A