The last few weeks have almost been like a whirlwind. I have been back in Rwanda for just over two weeks, but yet it feels like I never left. A few days after arriving, I jumped right in with ministry. It's so good to be back in Rwanda, to be around the people who have become so much like family, to be around familiar but yet many new things. So let me catch you up on my life.
1. I am so happy to be home in Rwanda! I was warmly greeted by my YWAM family, people from church and the few other random people I know here. It really was like coming home.
2. I LOVE the ministry that I'm a part of! Aprecom is a ministry that wants to serve and love. And we do whatever we can to show that love. From riding for 2 hours on a bus and then practically hiking just for a 30 minute meeting to visiting homes and support groups. When we have the money, we buy food, medicine, cover hosptial bills and whatever other needs the ladies might have. There are about 300 women that we work with. All are HIV+, many are widows, many have children that are also HIV+, most of have lost homes, family members, etc. These women have experienced more pain and tiral that I can ever imagine. Yet, they have joy because the know Jesus.
3. Although I love this ministry, it can be hard. HIV/AID's leads to death. Many of these women have mourned the death of husbands, children, brothers and sisters. I feel completely unprepared on how to deal with it.
4. Last Friday, we hosted the ladies for a womens conference. Full of worship, prayer, dancing and teaching. It was beautiful to worship with all the ladies!
5. On Thursday, I was asked if I wanted to go to Uganda for a conference, that starts this Monday. So after some prayer...I'm going to Uganda! From Monday to Friday, there is a Member Care conference for YWAM staff in East Africa. I am so excited to go and meet others and travel with a good friend of mine.
6. On a personal note - life is good! I am learning more Kinyrwanda (very slowly, but still) and will begin lessons soon. Aprecom keeps me busy but it's so worth it.
I feel so blessed and amazed that this is the life that God has given me. I love it and wouldn't choose anything else. Even when I'm tired or busy. Even when it's hot and we have to climb a steep hill. Even when home visits consist of listening to stories and crying. Even when there is now electricity to boil water for coffee. I wouldn't trade it for the world.
Joanna, I continue to be encouraged by what you're letting God use you for. It's all so touching and exciting! I learned a new verse today that suits you & your mission... "Your love has given me great joy and encouragement, because you, brother, have refreshed the hearts of the Lord's people." Philemon 1:7 I will continue to pray for God to protect and empower you as you laugh, cry and love with people who will be blessed by you through the Holy Spirit. :)
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