What's up? (May 28 edition)

Hey, folks!

We've been busy with visitors for the last few weeks.

First we had a large short-term missions team from Crossroads Church in Colorado visiting for a week. That was quite an experience. This team was well-organized, flexible, and with great hearts. They had a deep impact on the community of Philippi, both through the sheer impact of their presence, and in the ways they shared their lives with and taught the community. It was a delight to be alongside this team and the Philippians through that week.

On the heels of the Crossroads team was a 2 week potential staff trip which just ended Friday. 5 potential staff members came to visit Bridges SA and get a better sense of what this ministry looks like, and how they might fit with it.

Part of that visit was a four-day training of trainers (TOT) for CHE. The potential staff were joined for that part of their visit by 7 program facilitators from Philippi, a Korean couple learning English in the nearby community of Wellington, and an Aussie missionary working with his family in Lesotho.

Throughout it all, God's transforming work continues in Philippi. I am amazed at what is happening in this place! Look for more stories in this space.

Please pray for the following:

• That we won't succumb to burnout with so many visitors; we have another team coming next week, followed by a badly-needed 3 week break before Ocean Hills arrives for the OVC retreat
  
• For Muleki and Lulama Nkoloti as they wind up their visit to California (Pray especially this week that they will have the opportunity to really rest and relax before returning home)
  
• For Bridges SA potential staff, as they prayerfully consider joining with us,
  
• For Philippi staff, as they encourage, lead, and nurture God's transforming work within their community
• For the communities of Philippi and Lower Crossroads, as they continue to blossom and grow in health
• For the children in the OVC and ASP programs
  
• For Umthi We Sizwe, that they will continue to seek and receive God's grace and forgiveness, and to let their new lives shine boldly
  
• For our family's (and Linda's) search for a church home
• For our ability to connect with the needs around us, and wisdom to do so in the right way
• For the communities of Groendal, Matyotyombeni, and Mbekweni
  
• For Grace and Lucas, that they might continue to develop friendships, and to enjoy this still alien land

Thanks for your faithful prayers, and for your support.