There are too many events to highlight from this week, here is a selection;

1. I knocked over a donkey! Seriously. Fortunately both the donkey and me escaped injury as I had whacked on the breaks and managed to swerve thus just brushing its backside. The animal just kind of got up, looked at me as if to say "Idiot!" and ran off.

2. On Wednesday it was our wedding aniversary, so Heidie and I went for a slap-up meal at the local Chinese before taking in a show and finishing the night off at Starbucks in Chipanga. I WISH! Just as our meal was prepared the power went off so we had a candlelight dinner (candles are now functional rather than romantic) Then Heidie thrashed me at Backgammon. I returned the favour by beating her 3-0 at the far more intellectually challenging game of Guess Who! What exciting lives we lead but we did have time to refelct on our exciting and developing journey together and thank God for the many blessing and experiences he has given us together.

3. Yesterday, we went on a staff fellowship outing. Sixty people from Chikankata ventured to the banks of the Kafue River, where we enjoyed spending time with each other, games, meals, fishing and devotions. It was a blessed time. I was reliably informed that this was the first time in 9 years there has been any sort of fellowship outing. For those who have served at Chikankata, the event was organised by Mr. Chiyota, Clare Ntinda, Florence Muleya and Heidie and I believe it was a real beneficial experience to staff members and to the hospital. I am hoping to raise some money for a trip to Siavonga, as used to happen in the days of yore.

4. Now a tribute to Barbara, one of the many unsung but gracious supporters of Chikankata. 18 months ago a young student male nurse was doing extremely well at the Nursing Training School - he finished Term 1 with top marks. Unfortunately, immediately after Term 1 his father died and he had very little means to support himself. Barbara stepped in and sponsored him through all of his training. This week he found out he passed his exams and did extremely well too. He is now working at the Hospital, where he will stay for at least the next two years. This is sort of care and encouragement is one of the things that seperates a Salvation Army / Mission Hospital from a government hospital. This relatively small investment will mean this young man will now have a job for the rest of his life and he will also have an impact on the life of many others. Thanks Barbara and Well done Benson.

5. Finally, tomorrow (Monday 27th August 2007) sees a day of fasting and prayer across the Mission and the Division. Recently there have been a number of unfortunate and testing incidents that has caused some distress to the people in the communities and within the Mission. All these incidents are related to witchcraft. It seems people are extremely fearful of witchcraft and cause real dilemmas and anxities for people. It also brings out extreme behaviours that have placed a number of us in very dangerous situations. If you have a spare moment in your busy week, please pray for Chikankata and our ongoing spiritual war.