Dear friends and readers, I am writing to wish you all a very lovely, meaningful Christmas with those around you. I will be in Northern Kenya with the other missionaries and co-workers for celebrating the Lord's birth. These days the weather is reaching 100.1 in my bedroom. No we don't have air-conditioning in the houses, but the Lord has provided constant wind which helps a great deal! No there will be no white stuff or harsh wind chill factors to consider before going outside today. Instead I have to consider which dress will be cooler and wear my hat and sunglasses at all times!! Thankfully we have a swimming pool which helps to make life a bit more manageable. Family recently told me that in Minnesota it was - 40 which made me like this weather all the more!!!!! For more information and interest in Kenya go to the blog address below from onward. Thanks for keeping in touch.
ALSO THIS WILL BE THE LAST BLOG on this blog site. Those interested in knowing more about living here at Kalacha, please go to the address given below.
gsmethers.aimsites.org
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Again it has been awhile since I posted a few paragraphs. I have been at Kalacha now since August 9th and for the most part the work has started well. It takes awhile to get back into the routine, culture, adjusting to the heat and living in the north. I am grateful to the Lord to tell you that the vehicle so many people gave towards is at Kalacha. Earlier in October we started doing our weekly mobile clinics. Due the people not wanting their pictures taken at this time, I can't show any pictures this time. Ever since watching how the Lord brought in the funds for the vehicle in such a short time, I believe that He will be starting something new with it.
Blessings thus far:
1)The Lord has allowed Ponisa, nurse friend, to return to Kalacha for an definite period of time to help in patient care at the clinic.
2)The Lord has started form a team to go out on the weekly clinic trips- the Clinic staff(3 of us), the Kenyan Pastor and a church member.
3)We have received in two small villages for medical and immunization clinics. Both villages have at present about 15 kids needing the various childhood vaccines. One village in particular we saw a very sick lady who need extra medical care. She was responsive to the medical care given. Two weeks later we went to her home again to follow up. She requested that we bring her to Kalacha for more medical care.
4)Pastor John has been able to preach in both places and ladies seemed to listen. Pray that those who attend will think about what they hear in their own language about the Lord and His love for them.
Thanks for your continued prayer support. I especially have appreciated those of you who have committed to praying for me daily. THANK MEANS SO MUCH TO ME!!!!
On a totally different note, We had a wonderful conference of about 50 people working northern Kenya at the end of October. October 20-25 was a AIM missionary mini-conference to brainstorm on how we can better reach the nomadic peoples around us. It was very good and challenging. We had times of prayer for each other and it was refreshing and uplifting to see fellow missionaries with the same goal- to reach more nomadic peoples!!
During that time volunteers found out that I was looking for a kitten. Their landlord had a set of kitten ready to leave the mother. So I brought a female, dusty brown colored about 6 weeks old back to Kalacha with me. She is so cute and great for company, as well as bug catcher, mouse snatcher, and hopefully when larger scorpion and snake alarm and killer. I have thought of some names but am taking a pole to see who responds.
Possible names: Cinnamon, Kurungu(place I got her), Duplicate(looks exactly the one I had last term) or what???? Let me know what you think.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
More than a month as passed since my last entry so here we go.... Aug 9th I returned with others back to Kalacha via mission plane. The flights were smooth and it was wonderful to everyone. There was a warm welcome by church members, and town people at the airstrip. About a week and half later I went to Marsabit, largest town in the district, for shopping, getting the vehicle, and veggies, and greeting medical officials in the district hospital and get a new supply of vaccines for Kalacha Clinic.Staying overnight with missionary friends was very helpful in many ways. I was able to visit with Kenyan friends whom I have not seen in a long time, get a good nights rest for the long trip and drive back to Kalacha, and yet not hold up the other missionaries who wanted to return to Kalacha the same day. Now the vehicle is back at Kalacha, and are already in use.
August was consumed mainly in getting settled in the house and clinic again. Ware was there continuing to do help those she could. The house hold supplies, my clothes, books and food items needed to be unpacked and put into their proper place. The solar battery and system I left was in working order. The kerosene fridge started up well, and for that two major expensive items to be working well after not being use for a while was wonderful.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Time in Nairobi
The month of July has passed rather fast. Not that it is behind me I can look back in the events and thank the Lord for His guidance and provision. The main reason for staying longer in Nairobi was to begin studying the Boran language. Along with that it was possible to get legal documents submitted for living and working in Kenya for the next couple of years. Besides that it has been possible to reconnect with other AIM and missionary friends, cousins working in Kenya, and prepare for the return to Kalacha. Thanks for you interest and prayers for the time here.
What are the upcoming plans? The flight to Kalacha is set for August 8th in the morning for a two and half hour flight from Nairobi to Kalacha. Most likely the following Monday I will start to work at the clinic and begin the process of unpacking my household item. I know that Ware is still there, and have heard that Barako is also there. I will be glad to start working with them again.
What about the vehicle purchase?The Lord has given clear guidance to purchase a Land Rover Defender, station wagon 1996, from missionaries returning to the States. The prices is good and they did not need the money immediately. The fact that this missionary was the sole owner and cared for it so well impressed me. They have been so gracious to me as we have talked about the specifics of transfer of ownership. This last we were able to care for details related to insurance and ownership in Kenya together in a smooth fashion. THE Exciting thing was that the missionary needed to use it one more time for a his own trip in northern Kenya Aug.2-12th. He was willing to leave the vehicle in northern Kenya in a central town where another missionary couple work. So it means that we can save some on ware and tear on the vehicle and diesel prices. At some point later in August or early September I will be able to make arrangements for traveling up to Marsabit(where it will be left) in order to get the vehicle along with the many supplies for living in Kalacha again. THE LORD IS GOOD IN WORKING THIS OUT.
How has the language learning gone? The Lord has also given us a good 4 weeks of language learning. Boru and I started meeting on July 7th for two hours daily for 4 days per week. He has been helpful in explaining to me grammatical questions that I had. He has been patient in my many questions and having to repeat many details to me frequently !! It has shown me how much I need to learn and realize that I need to really concentrate on further language learning! Please don't stop praying for me.
What are the upcoming plans? The flight to Kalacha is set for August 8th in the morning for a two and half hour flight from Nairobi to Kalacha. Most likely the following Monday I will start to work at the clinic and begin the process of unpacking my household item. I know that Ware is still there, and have heard that Barako is also there. I will be glad to start working with them again.
What about the vehicle purchase?The Lord has given clear guidance to purchase a Land Rover Defender, station wagon 1996, from missionaries returning to the States. The prices is good and they did not need the money immediately. The fact that this missionary was the sole owner and cared for it so well impressed me. They have been so gracious to me as we have talked about the specifics of transfer of ownership. This last we were able to care for details related to insurance and ownership in Kenya together in a smooth fashion. THE Exciting thing was that the missionary needed to use it one more time for a his own trip in northern Kenya Aug.2-12th. He was willing to leave the vehicle in northern Kenya in a central town where another missionary couple work. So it means that we can save some on ware and tear on the vehicle and diesel prices. At some point later in August or early September I will be able to make arrangements for traveling up to Marsabit(where it will be left) in order to get the vehicle along with the many supplies for living in Kalacha again. THE LORD IS GOOD IN WORKING THIS OUT.
How has the language learning gone? The Lord has also given us a good 4 weeks of language learning. Boru and I started meeting on July 7th for two hours daily for 4 days per week. He has been helpful in explaining to me grammatical questions that I had. He has been patient in my many questions and having to repeat many details to me frequently !! It has shown me how much I need to learn and realize that I need to really concentrate on further language learning! Please don't stop praying for me.
Friday, June 27, 2008
Praise the Lord for answered prayer!
Just wanted to let everyone know that the Lord answered prayer regarding the trip back to Kenya. It was uneventful, smooth, comfortable and all my luggage arrived on the same plane that I did. I was very relieved to see it in Nairobi. Now I am staying in the mission's guest house in Nairobi for all of July at this point. That is a great place to meet people in all sort of Christian ministries in Kenya and Africa. So thanks to all of you for praying during these recent days of travel. I appreciate your continued prayers regarding decisions connected to language study and steps towards purchasing the vehicle. More details in the email updates that I send out. Now to get over the jet lag, establish a routine, and get Boran language lessons started during the up coming week.
WHAT IS JET LAG? Jet lag is what happens to a person due to the travel over a number of time zones in a short period of time. As one looks over the world map they can see that from the USA to Europe there are at least 5-6 different time zones that the airplane travels through in a 7.5 hour trip. Coming towards Europe is the larger part of the change of which 5 hours difference is experienced. Then another 8 hour trip from Europe to Kenya another two hour time zones are passed through to make a total of about 7-8(depending on the year)time zones. The results are a feeling of "fuzzy mind" and body. It takes at least 5-7 days to feel back into the routine again -sleeping the night through completely, not feeling sleepy during the daylight, and not feeling as if one is in a "fog". It is normal and just takes time to get back into routine again.
WHAT IS BORAN? This is the language that the people where I live and work speak. You might think that I do know it since I have worked there since 1999. Well, there are some reasons for taking lessons now. I know Swahili and so can use that when communicating with some people where I work. Thus I don't use what Boran that I might know very often. My responsibilities have hindered allowing concentrated time on the language. Up until now I have not found someone there at the immediate area who knows enough about their own language to explain it to me. Many of the traditional people don't know another language so it seems prudent to take the time before returning to the area to work on it. I have made contact with someone who is willing to do that for me. So the plan is to be in Nairobi area for all of July at this point to put time into doing just that, language(cultural included)learning. More details in the next email update.
WHAT IS JET LAG? Jet lag is what happens to a person due to the travel over a number of time zones in a short period of time. As one looks over the world map they can see that from the USA to Europe there are at least 5-6 different time zones that the airplane travels through in a 7.5 hour trip. Coming towards Europe is the larger part of the change of which 5 hours difference is experienced. Then another 8 hour trip from Europe to Kenya another two hour time zones are passed through to make a total of about 7-8(depending on the year)time zones. The results are a feeling of "fuzzy mind" and body. It takes at least 5-7 days to feel back into the routine again -sleeping the night through completely, not feeling sleepy during the daylight, and not feeling as if one is in a "fog". It is normal and just takes time to get back into routine again.
WHAT IS BORAN? This is the language that the people where I live and work speak. You might think that I do know it since I have worked there since 1999. Well, there are some reasons for taking lessons now. I know Swahili and so can use that when communicating with some people where I work. Thus I don't use what Boran that I might know very often. My responsibilities have hindered allowing concentrated time on the language. Up until now I have not found someone there at the immediate area who knows enough about their own language to explain it to me. Many of the traditional people don't know another language so it seems prudent to take the time before returning to the area to work on it. I have made contact with someone who is willing to do that for me. So the plan is to be in Nairobi area for all of July at this point to put time into doing just that, language(cultural included)learning. More details in the next email update.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Saturday, June 7, 2008
WOW! June 20th is getting closer!
June 20 is fast drawing to closer. I can't believe that I have been in the States for an entire year. Being here for that time was very beneficial for me- time to see friends and family numerous times, visiting churches not in a rushed manner for most of the time, and yet having time to rejuvenate spiritually, physically and emotionally! Praise the Lord! I am so glad I have the two extra weeks to pack and sort belongings and make necessary preparations for returning to Kenya. Originally, I was leaving on June 5th from Pennsylvania, but instead I have two weeks here.
You might be asking how is the Vehicle Project coming along? It has been faith stretching experience watching how the Lord has opened door to speak to supporters and churches about this adventure. People have been asking good questions, and have been challenged to help so that a vehicle can be purchased in Kenya. May 08 there was $5000.00 at AIM HQ from the previous vehicle I had in Kenya. But the end of May 21, it was $7200.00 at AIM HQ. By the beginning of June, it was nearly $10,000.00 , and as of June 6, yesterday, we have nearly $14,000 promised or in hand at AIM HQ. THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO HAS HAD A PART IN IT. MUNGU ANAWEZA- GOD IS ABLE.
Along with that someone an AIM prayer meeting put me in contact with a Christian donor organization in Philadelphia. They asked for a formal application to be filled out by myself and AIM which we have now sent to them asking for assistance in the purchase of the vehicle. Lord willing, their board will be meeting at the end of July to decide if and how much they can help.
Please pray that the Lord would show them how much they can send towards the purchase of the vehicle.
So what is the next step? Since the funds have passed the amount that AIM has required to return to Kenya, AIM has purchased tickets for me to leave Pa. on June 20 from Harrisburg. I fly down to Florida in order to spend some days in with AIM retiree's near Clermont, before leaving for Kenya on June 25th from Orlando. The KLM flight has a stopover of a few hours in Amsterdam , Lord willing to arrive in the evening in Nairobi, Kenya on June 26th.
How long will you be in Nairobi? The exact time in Nairobi is unsure at this point. I will be in Nairobi for at least July on account of wanted to learn more Boran. BORAN is the local language spoken at Kalacha. It has been possible to contact a Christian Boran man who is willing to take time in his schedule to help me learn. He has helped other missionaries who were thrilled with his explanations and assistance in learning Boran.
What can we pray for? 1)for decisions related to the vehicle purchase-which type of vehicle, when is the right time to purchase it, from whom, how much is a fare price, what needs to be added to the vehicle to make it easier to use in northern Kenya. 2)That the language helper, Boru Galgallo. and I will be able to comes up with a lesson schedule that is agreeable to both of us. (He teaches at a Bible school and has Church responsibilities) That we would find a good place for meeting for the lessons. That I'd have wisdom in knowing exactly how much he should be paid. 3)For me as I re-adjust back into living in Africa where matters are cared for at a slower pace, where life is not always so prodictable as in the States, and where relationships are more important than tasks!
You might be asking how is the Vehicle Project coming along? It has been faith stretching experience watching how the Lord has opened door to speak to supporters and churches about this adventure. People have been asking good questions, and have been challenged to help so that a vehicle can be purchased in Kenya. May 08 there was $5000.00 at AIM HQ from the previous vehicle I had in Kenya. But the end of May 21, it was $7200.00 at AIM HQ. By the beginning of June, it was nearly $10,000.00 , and as of June 6, yesterday, we have nearly $14,000 promised or in hand at AIM HQ. THANKS TO EVERYONE WHO HAS HAD A PART IN IT. MUNGU ANAWEZA- GOD IS ABLE.
Along with that someone an AIM prayer meeting put me in contact with a Christian donor organization in Philadelphia. They asked for a formal application to be filled out by myself and AIM which we have now sent to them asking for assistance in the purchase of the vehicle. Lord willing, their board will be meeting at the end of July to decide if and how much they can help.
Please pray that the Lord would show them how much they can send towards the purchase of the vehicle.
So what is the next step? Since the funds have passed the amount that AIM has required to return to Kenya, AIM has purchased tickets for me to leave Pa. on June 20 from Harrisburg. I fly down to Florida in order to spend some days in with AIM retiree's near Clermont, before leaving for Kenya on June 25th from Orlando. The KLM flight has a stopover of a few hours in Amsterdam , Lord willing to arrive in the evening in Nairobi, Kenya on June 26th.
How long will you be in Nairobi? The exact time in Nairobi is unsure at this point. I will be in Nairobi for at least July on account of wanted to learn more Boran. BORAN is the local language spoken at Kalacha. It has been possible to contact a Christian Boran man who is willing to take time in his schedule to help me learn. He has helped other missionaries who were thrilled with his explanations and assistance in learning Boran.
What can we pray for? 1)for decisions related to the vehicle purchase-which type of vehicle, when is the right time to purchase it, from whom, how much is a fare price, what needs to be added to the vehicle to make it easier to use in northern Kenya. 2)That the language helper, Boru Galgallo. and I will be able to comes up with a lesson schedule that is agreeable to both of us. (He teaches at a Bible school and has Church responsibilities) That we would find a good place for meeting for the lessons. That I'd have wisdom in knowing exactly how much he should be paid. 3)For me as I re-adjust back into living in Africa where matters are cared for at a slower pace, where life is not always so prodictable as in the States, and where relationships are more important than tasks!
Saturday, May 24, 2008
The Lord is continuing to work!
Yes, the Lord is definitely continuing to work out HIS will concerning the need of a vehicle. It has been a faith stretching process these last two months as I see how the Lord is working in regards the news of a need for a vehicle. I praise HIM for what He is teaching me about leaning on HIM, about being willing to turn over my WILL to the Lord so that He can work.
It was disappointing at first that my departure date for returning to Kenya would likely be postponed and to realize that so much was need in a short period of time. Was my faith in the Almighty God large enough? Was I willing to release my control over this decision that I thought I should be making upon returning to Kenya? What would I do regarding place to stay and vehicle if I needed to stay longer into the summer? These are some questions that I have posed to trusty friends in recent weeks. They have been so supportive. Thanks!
Thanks to many of you who have been praying for me and this new needs. Thanks to others who have called to ask concerning questions as you are as surprised as I am about the need of the vehicle. Thanks to the Lord for what He is teaching about waiting on HIM.
What is the reason for the late notice of a need of a vehicle? 1)is the change in mission leadership in Kenya as of September 2007. 2)As a result of insecurity in Kenya from Dec. to March necessitated AIM leadership concentrating on current events, safety issues and care of missionaries in Kenya. That left little time for concentration on matter relating to AIM missionaries outside of Kenya, but planning to return.
Where should funds be sent? They can be sent either to AIM or GMC offices.(See my May newsletter) But if funds are sent to AIM there is one less set of hands the funds to be funnels through. Also it will be easier to keep track of the running total if they are sent to AIM with an attached note specifically mentioning "Smethers' vehicle project".
Will the vehicle be purchased in the USA? IF not, why? No the vehicle will be purchased in Kenya. If it was purchased in the USA it would likely be extra expense above the $30,000 for customs, transport and fees to get into Kenya. Also it would be an extra expense to keep an American vehicle repaired as parts for American cars are not easily accessiable in Kenya. It will be more economical, less hassles, and import fees for parts in the years to come if the vehicle is purchase in Kenya. There are 4WD dealors in Nairobi, and mechanic garages where repairs can be done. Added to that often missionaries are leaving and selling their well kept vehicles which give another option for purchasing a well cared for second-hand vehicle.
It was disappointing at first that my departure date for returning to Kenya would likely be postponed and to realize that so much was need in a short period of time. Was my faith in the Almighty God large enough? Was I willing to release my control over this decision that I thought I should be making upon returning to Kenya? What would I do regarding place to stay and vehicle if I needed to stay longer into the summer? These are some questions that I have posed to trusty friends in recent weeks. They have been so supportive. Thanks!
Thanks to many of you who have been praying for me and this new needs. Thanks to others who have called to ask concerning questions as you are as surprised as I am about the need of the vehicle. Thanks to the Lord for what He is teaching about waiting on HIM.
What is the reason for the late notice of a need of a vehicle? 1)is the change in mission leadership in Kenya as of September 2007. 2)As a result of insecurity in Kenya from Dec. to March necessitated AIM leadership concentrating on current events, safety issues and care of missionaries in Kenya. That left little time for concentration on matter relating to AIM missionaries outside of Kenya, but planning to return.
Where should funds be sent? They can be sent either to AIM or GMC offices.(See my May newsletter) But if funds are sent to AIM there is one less set of hands the funds to be funnels through. Also it will be easier to keep track of the running total if they are sent to AIM with an attached note specifically mentioning "Smethers' vehicle project".
Will the vehicle be purchased in the USA? IF not, why? No the vehicle will be purchased in Kenya. If it was purchased in the USA it would likely be extra expense above the $30,000 for customs, transport and fees to get into Kenya. Also it would be an extra expense to keep an American vehicle repaired as parts for American cars are not easily accessiable in Kenya. It will be more economical, less hassles, and import fees for parts in the years to come if the vehicle is purchase in Kenya. There are 4WD dealors in Nairobi, and mechanic garages where repairs can be done. Added to that often missionaries are leaving and selling their well kept vehicles which give another option for purchasing a well cared for second-hand vehicle.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
God is working!
I am excited as to what the Lord is starting to do regarding the vehicle project. People are starting to hear the news of the need. Others are asking how they can be a part of the project. Others are inquiring as to the reason for the vehicle and why it seems like a late time in furlough to get the news out. Yet, others have been such a source of encouragement and prayer support! I feel so blessed in recent weeks. I am thrilled with the way that the Lord is showing HIS CONTROL and SOVEREIGN will in the entire matter.
We humans love to have control of our lives and living in "limbo" is not easy. We like to know what is going to happen in the near future. We like to have a say in what will be ahead of us. Yet, I am finding, slowly, that living a Christian life is living it the way the Lord desires and wills for me.
I have hopes of returning to Kenya in the near future, but it may not happen on the date expected. The mission leadership wants at least $12,000 raised before the departure date of June 10th from the USA. But if the Lord wants me to stay longer in the States that is fine. He has already shown me some possiblities of where to stay for a few months from now, about a vehicle and other matters related to the possible delay. Perhaps there is some future need for a vehicle that we (all of us involved in this matter) are not aware of. Perhaps we may not know until we reach Heaven ! That we will leave with the Lord! I do want to stay within His will for me, nevertheless.
I have been reading verses regarding wisdom and instruction. Here are a few that have caused me to think about. Proverbs 13:13; Proverb 3:5-7; Proverb 2:6-12 Thanks for your continued prayers on this entire matter. Blessings! Again"Munguanaweza" means "God is Able"!
We humans love to have control of our lives and living in "limbo" is not easy. We like to know what is going to happen in the near future. We like to have a say in what will be ahead of us. Yet, I am finding, slowly, that living a Christian life is living it the way the Lord desires and wills for me.
I have hopes of returning to Kenya in the near future, but it may not happen on the date expected. The mission leadership wants at least $12,000 raised before the departure date of June 10th from the USA. But if the Lord wants me to stay longer in the States that is fine. He has already shown me some possiblities of where to stay for a few months from now, about a vehicle and other matters related to the possible delay. Perhaps there is some future need for a vehicle that we (all of us involved in this matter) are not aware of. Perhaps we may not know until we reach Heaven ! That we will leave with the Lord! I do want to stay within His will for me, nevertheless.
I have been reading verses regarding wisdom and instruction. Here are a few that have caused me to think about. Proverbs 13:13; Proverb 3:5-7; Proverb 2:6-12 Thanks for your continued prayers on this entire matter. Blessings! Again"Munguanaweza" means "God is Able"!
Friday, April 25, 2008
New NEWS!
Recently I received an email from mission leader-
ship saying that I need to raise money for a 4WD
vehicle in order to start up mobile clinics again from Kalacha. I had hoped to return to Kenya and assess the situation, but the mission wants me to present the need before I leave in June 2008. So I am writing a prayer letter to everyone know and adding it to this months blog.
Two of the last 4 years in Kenya, I did have a land rover to use for the mobile clinics. But it became far to expensive for me to keep it running and repaired. So it was sold and with in 6
months the Lord answer the 3 reason for having
a vehicle-mobile clinics, travel between Nairobi
and Kalacha, and getting supplies. So I was hoping to return this time to see what the situation was at Kalacha with new missionaries and ministries starting up to see if really did need one.
You might have lots of questions as do I when thinking about a vehicle. I still have questions, but have wanted to know the Lord's leading in this matter totally. I am not sure exactly how and when He will supply, but He will. Let me pose some questions that you mgiht be asking:
1)How much will a vehicle cost? I looked on the
internet and the 4WD in the States costs at least
$20,000US new. AIM leadership is proposing that
I raise $30,000 which would give me the remainder
to use for the running and repairs on the vehicle.
They want me to have at least $12,000 "in-hand"
or promised before leaving the USA on June 10th.
2)Will you purchase the vehicle in Kenya? The plan is to purchase the vehicle, second-hand, in Kenya as that will decrease matters related to importing and fees involved to get the vehicle into Kenya.
3)Why is a 4WD necessary for your work? The reason a 4WD is necessary is because in northern Kenya when I work roads are either dusty and rocky in the dry season(most of the year), or MUDDY and EVENTFUL in the rainy season(twice a year). Due to unpaved roads each trip takes its tole on the tires, shock absorbers, bushings, body of the vehicle, and regular maintenance along with the higher price of fuel in Kenya. At present $6.00 is the price of a gallon of diesel.
If you have more questions please contact AIM, myself, or Global Ministries Commission on the websites provided.
ship saying that I need to raise money for a 4WD
vehicle in order to start up mobile clinics again from Kalacha. I had hoped to return to Kenya and assess the situation, but the mission wants me to present the need before I leave in June 2008. So I am writing a prayer letter to everyone know and adding it to this months blog.
Two of the last 4 years in Kenya, I did have a land rover to use for the mobile clinics. But it became far to expensive for me to keep it running and repaired. So it was sold and with in 6
months the Lord answer the 3 reason for having
a vehicle-mobile clinics, travel between Nairobi
and Kalacha, and getting supplies. So I was hoping to return this time to see what the situation was at Kalacha with new missionaries and ministries starting up to see if really did need one.
You might have lots of questions as do I when thinking about a vehicle. I still have questions, but have wanted to know the Lord's leading in this matter totally. I am not sure exactly how and when He will supply, but He will. Let me pose some questions that you mgiht be asking:
1)How much will a vehicle cost? I looked on the
internet and the 4WD in the States costs at least
$20,000US new. AIM leadership is proposing that
I raise $30,000 which would give me the remainder
to use for the running and repairs on the vehicle.
They want me to have at least $12,000 "in-hand"
or promised before leaving the USA on June 10th.
2)Will you purchase the vehicle in Kenya? The plan is to purchase the vehicle, second-hand, in Kenya as that will decrease matters related to importing and fees involved to get the vehicle into Kenya.
3)Why is a 4WD necessary for your work? The reason a 4WD is necessary is because in northern Kenya when I work roads are either dusty and rocky in the dry season(most of the year), or MUDDY and EVENTFUL in the rainy season(twice a year). Due to unpaved roads each trip takes its tole on the tires, shock absorbers, bushings, body of the vehicle, and regular maintenance along with the higher price of fuel in Kenya. At present $6.00 is the price of a gallon of diesel.
If you have more questions please contact AIM, myself, or Global Ministries Commission on the websites provided.
Thursday, March 20, 2008
Spring Is HERE!
I am so excited about Spring coming to Pennsylvania. Recently a missionary friend and I went to Middle Creek to see all the birds that migrating north after the winter. It only happens once a year for about 3-4 weeks. With in an hour and half we saw a large number of birds! It was great to be outside(though chilly) to enjoy fresh air, the birds and interact with other bird watchers! We saw many tundra swans, Canadian geese, Snow Geese a BALD EAGLE(with binoculars), a Heron, and few other birds. The afternoon is the best time to visit!Have a wonderful Easter weekend. I am looking forward to the celebrations of the Lord Jesus' provision for us with friends in Reading. May this Sunday be extra special for each of you as you thank HIM and praise for His provision for you!
This time in the USA has been good and I have enjoyed a number of things. One particularly great time was with family in Yellowstone National Park. Any of you who have not gone should do it. The sites of animals, birds and natural surroundings are wonderful. The picture to the left is taken at HOT springs in the early morning. The shadows are family members as we were looking at the pool barely visiable due to the steam. We were reminded many times of the Lord's creation showing people(when they want to listen) who He is- It was awesome and beautiful all together!
Wednesday, March 12, 2008
Mungu Anaweza
You might be asking yourself what does "Mungu Anaweza" mean? Good question! It means "GOD IS ABLE" in Swahili. Swahili is the trade language used in Kenya for tribes to communicate between each other. Kenya used to be a British colony, and in 1963 was given its independence from England. Thus official documents, education passed 3rd year in Primary school is in English. But because Kenya has about 52 languages belonging to the 52 tribal groups they need a language to communicate between tribes. Kenya is about the size of Texas in the USA, and USA mainland (square miles) can be fit into the continent of Africa TWICE. So Africa and Kenya are large expanses of land where many peoples live.
So back to the topic of "God is Able". That is so true, and that is what I am holding onto for this next 4 years, Lord willing, at Kalacha. It is will be the Lord enabling to bring about more Gabra people to Himself. The Lord is showing us slowly how He is doing it. There are more missionaries joining us there at Kalacha. We are hopeful that a Kenyan pastor will be stationed at Kalacha to teach the local believers who do attend church. We are asking Him to challenge people to help be a part of the new team's support financially and prayerfully so that the can go to Kalacha soon. The Lord is Able and we are praying that He will help us to trust Him for the great things yet to happen there.
Who am I?
Hello my name is Gloria Smethers working in Kenya since 1999 with Africa Inland Mission as a nurse. I used to work in DRC (formerly Zaire) until 1996. Presently, I have been in the USA for nearly a year of leave living in Pa. I plan to return to Kenya in early June, Lord willing. T
he picture taken of me was done in Florida, but where I work climate, terrain, follage and life and people are very different.
The place that I will be returning to is called Kalacha where the Gabra and Boran peoples lives in a semi-nomadic way of life. Right at Kalacha the people are becoming more seditary(opposite of nomadic) so they live close by the water source at Kalacha and send their animals(camels, goats and sheep) out to graze early in the morning and return as the sun is going down. Life is very much like what we can read about in the Old Testement.
I hope I have caught your attention and interest as I would like to use this mode of communication to share about what is happening in my life and show you a bit easier and faster what life is like at Kalacha. Will be glad to hear from friends and family, and church supporters if you have any questions. Have a great week
he picture taken of me was done in Florida, but where I work climate, terrain, follage and life and people are very different.The place that I will be returning to is called Kalacha where the Gabra and Boran peoples lives in a semi-nomadic way of life. Right at Kalacha the people are becoming more seditary(opposite of nomadic) so they live close by the water source at Kalacha and send their animals(camels, goats and sheep) out to graze early in the morning and return as the sun is going down. Life is very much like what we can read about in the Old Testement.
I hope I have caught your attention and interest as I would like to use this mode of communication to share about what is happening in my life and show you a bit easier and faster what life is like at Kalacha. Will be glad to hear from friends and family, and church supporters if you have any questions. Have a great week
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
Getting started-March 11,2008
Dear friends, I am stepping out and trying something new for me. I have see others who have used blogging as a way of communicating with friends, and family. So thought it could be a way to update people on what happening with me. I do have missionary friends who also use Blogging as a way of keepin in touch and communicating changes that are occuring.
Presently, I am in the USA but starting to make preparations for returning to Kenya where the Lord is leading me back to Kalacha. The Lord has answered prayers regarding the return. Kenya has experienced some heart ache and lost in recent months since end of December. Reports from the mission and are looking more hopeful and positive than it did in January and February. We are praising the Lord for His of mercy on many issues affecting the country of Kenya and its people.
Presently, I am in the USA but starting to make preparations for returning to Kenya where the Lord is leading me back to Kalacha. The Lord has answered prayers regarding the return. Kenya has experienced some heart ache and lost in recent months since end of December. Reports from the mission and are looking more hopeful and positive than it did in January and February. We are praising the Lord for His of mercy on many issues affecting the country of Kenya and its people.
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