Update

It's been a while since I've posted and even longer since I've written an update about what's going on in my life. I found out a couple of weeks ago that I wasn't accepted into grad school. It was a shock and disappointing, but I decided not to dwell in that. Since then I have accepted a long-term sub job at the same school I taught at before. I'll have back to back long-term jobs and should be employed for the majority of the rest of the school year. I also moved back into my condo and am in the process of painting and unpacking. So lots of changes.... different than what I was hoping for, but I'm trusting.

From Reuben

Reuben passed this on today. I want to echo his thanks to the many that prayed for the situation in Chad just because you follow my blog.

In the book of Phillipians 4:10-14 it reads:

"But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked opportunity. Not that I speak from want; I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstances I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction."

A simple thank you does not seem enough to express the gratefulness that I have for the many prayers and financial support from so many. But I thank you very much for your prayers of protection and provision. I thank you for your financial support that was used to feed so many (at it peak there were more than 1,500 hundred people-mostly children-on the grounds of the church). I know I also speak for Pastor Christophe Hadama along with his family and also for the many Chadian refugees who were helped from your support. I hope that many of you have had an opportunity to see Sarah-Kay's blog (piecesofglass.blogspot.com) that Nate used to keep people updated on the situation in Chad. The blog is filled with accounts and pictures that I shared with Nate during our many conversations the week of February 3 – 9.

Life in Chad has gone back to its daily activities, though there still remains great uncertainty in what the future holds. The streets have been cleared of the dead bodies, destroyed vehicles are continued to be removed, and bullet marked buildings are being repaired. Many Chadians, especially those I work with have opted to keep their families in the south of the country or in neighboring Cameroon for a few months.

The rebels continue their activities in other parts of the country, contemplating their next move, while the Chadian president continues to remain unwilling to let go of power. So this situation makes for difficult and challenging times so I ask for your continued prayers.

I do rejoice in the Lord for the concern of those I do know and those I do not know directly for sharing in the Chadian "affliction" whether it was in prayer or/and in support. It is good to know that there is such concern for me from family and friends, but also such concern for the welfare of others.

Thank you and God Bless
Reuben

The Beauty of Technology

While I was checking my email this morning I was surprised to see Mamadou on-line, in N'djamena. I met Mamadou while I was in Chad, but had corresponded with him even before we met. He stayed in N'djamena throughout the rebel attack. I was glad to hear that he was fine, but saddened by what he had seen. He said that things were very bad, that people had been going for days without food. At work, the laptops and other supplies had been looted. Thankfully they didn't bother with an old computer which allowed him to chat with me. I love that technology allows me to be in touch with friends from all over the world. (Mamadou and I would frequently chat while I was in Jamaica.)



I used this picture last post because Mamadou has a great smile. And I'll use it again because I'm so happy to hear he's alright.

There Is More...

So often the only coverage Africa getting in the news is for fighting, sickness, and famine. When I say I lived in Africa, I can see these thoughts running through people's heads. And while fighting, sickness, and famine are prevalent, there are so many other riches to be found.

I've been thinking a lot about the wonderful friends I made while I was there. So my next few blog entries are going to share some of the side of Africa that gets ignored.

This morning is dedicated to beautiful smiles.








Reuben was able to send picture. They're small to see on Nate's blog, but you can check them out there.


*** The majority of my time was spent in Bangui (Central African Republic). I did also travel to Yaounde (Cameroon) and Ndjamena and Moundou (Chad) ***

Photos Coming Soon

I chatted with Reuben on-line yesterday for just a couple of seconds. He was trying to upload pictures, but the connection was too slow. He'll be in N'djamena today and will hopefully have a faster connection.

Is it really possible to make a difference?

Amid the destruction, fear, and loss in Chad, before humanitarian agencies were in the area, people joined together to meet the most basic immediate needs of our friends and global family. As of Friday, $5,771.00 (updated number received Saturday afternoon) has been raised to assist 786 (new head count) people!

Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful committed citizens can change the world. Indeed it's the only thing that ever has. -- Margaret Mead

Thank you for your prayers and financial support. Please continue to stay in touch families begin to assess the damage to their homes, businesses, and communities.

Reuben has been taking pictures of food distribution. As soon as he can he'll get them to Nate and I'll be sure to let you know.

Money Transfered

I learned this morning that the church courtyard where Reuben and his family are has 400-500 people that they are caring for. I can't imagine trying to feed 400-500 people... more over obtain the resources needed to make this happen.

Please contact me if you'd like to join me in providing food for friends in need.

*****************
This is the most recent update from Nate (Reuben's brother).

At 7:10 AM central US time, I received a call from Reuben letting me know that the initial funds that we transfered using Western Union had indeed arrived and that Pastor Christophe Hadama was able to get the money.

N'djamena is relatively quiet although there is still a lot of uncertainty. The local authorities in Chad are telling residents that they can head back into the city; however, we remain cautious as there are reports that the rebels are not that far off and could attack again. Only the next few days will tell.

Reuben says that there are some people who are moving further into Cameroon, others are venturing back into Chad and many are staying put. Even if people go back to Chad, the infrastructure has been so badly damaged that resources will be scarce for a while yet.

It's an encouragement knowing that money can be transfered to help meet their basic needs. Please continue to pray for wisdom for Reuben and safety for his Dad, Abel as he travels to his family.


Residents walk through the destroyed central market of N'Djamena, Chad, Wednesday Feb. 6, 2008 -- I walked through this market and am so sad to see the destruction.


People carrying their belongings are seen through a star-shaped cut as they cross Ngueli bridge over the Logone-Chari river into Cameroon fleeing fighting in N'Djamena February 4, 2008. The U.N. Security Council urged countries on Monday to support Chad's government against rebels, opening the way for foreign aid to help thousands who have fled a two-day assault on the capital.

Photos taken from
Yahoo Slideshow I'd encourage you to take a look at some of the pictures to get an idea of the reality facing civilians there.

Can You Imagine?

People fleeing the Chadian capital N'Djamena cross the bridge on the Chad and Cameroon border in Kousseri on February 4, 2008.
STR / AFP / Getty

Reuben Ndjerareou

A good friend from college, Reuben (whose family hosted me while I was in Bangui) moved back to Chad shortly after he graduated. Over the past weekend, Chad has been thrown into chaos as rebels have tried to overthrow the President. Reuben is now one of the many refugees in Kousseri on the Chad-Cameroon border. Thanks to the fellow body of Christ for opening its arms to him, his extended family and friends, finding safety in a local church.

Anyone looking to support the Ndjerareou family and the Chadian people can assist by sending cash donations to Reuben so that he can minister directly to the church officials who are absorbing the refugees filling up their compound. A paypal account is being set up, by Nate, specifically for this purpose and any resources are appreciated.

Thank you for your prayers and support as we try to help friends so far away. Please feel free to contact Nate (nathanael.ndjerareou@gmail.com) for details. He and his wife, Sarh Kay, have lots of current information on their blog.

Please pass this information on to anyone who may be interested in helping.

<>< michelle

Update: Chad

This is the most recent update I've gotten on the situation in Chad.

N'Djamena turned into hell for civilians. I just talked to my son and my brother who are now in Kousseri across from N'Djamena. I am still without news from some of my relatives. Thousands of people are trying to reach that city for their safety as rebels promise to launch another attack. Now, there will be many issues: shelter, food, health. I would appreciate your prayers.

In the News: MTI

LITTLETON — Two missionaries from Colorado Springs on their way to a church in the foothills west of Denver were killed this morning when the driver of another vehicle apparently had a medical emergency and collided with the minivan they were riding in.

The van's occupants were connected to Mission Training International, a Palmer Lake center that prepares missionaries for overseas duty, the organization confirmed Sunday night.

.... the whole story.

In 2006 I was blessed to be a part of training at Mission Training International. They provide an incredible ministry to people preparing and returning from the mission field. I can't begin to imagine the pain this unexpected accident has caused in the lives of so many.

Please keep all involved (families, staff, training participants, etc.) in your prayers.

Update: Chad

I got this today from a Chadian friend in the States.

I have not been able to talk to any one in N'Djamena. The situation is very bad. Some other troops are coming to rescue of Deby (the president) who is in his palace surrounded by the rebels. We are really worried about the civilians. They have nowhere to go as all the roads are blocked now. Please pray that a better solution is found.

Rebels Fight for Chad's Capital

Chad rebels fight troops in capital

Chadian rebels clash with gov't forces in capital; head toward presidential palace

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