Previously, our departure date was in May of this year. Then we made the decision to move it back to August. Now we have tickets. We leave on September 18th.
The date is flexible, and we will know more within a six or eight week period before then - it can move back if needed
When we land we hope to move into the Evangelical College of Theology, then begin learning Krio and travel to meet churches
Right now Global Ministries transfers funds via Western Union. It is expensive to do so, but the banking system takes a very long time to handle U.S. checks. (If they do it at all!)
Jesse is looking for an apartment in Springfield so he can finish his Associate's Degree at Clark State. David and Kristen will be in Columbus, and Katey is in Mozambique until July 26. She may join us in Sierra Leone after she leaves Mozambique.
Randy has a teaching job at the Evangelical College of Theology. In addition, he will be involved in agricultural/economic development projects to help the church.
This is still fairly 'up in the air' - Brother Billy Simbo has ideas about how to make use of Toni's construction experience to benefit the churches, schools, and hospitals. We are keeping a very open mind about what Toni will do, since she will not need to home school this time in Africa.
Sierra Leone did NOT make the list of the 10 worst countries to visit in 2007! That is a step in the right direction!
The normal United Brethren term is 30 months in the field, then six months stateside - that is our initial plan of action. However, we see this as a lifetime commitment. We are willing to be there as long as we can bless the church with the gifts the Lord has given us.