Tales of TanzaniaFebruary 2025

Tales of Tanzania

February 2025

“Miracles and Milestones”

Returning to Tanzania felt like coming home.  The warm temperatures were matched by the warmth of the smiles and hugs that greeted me.  Thomas, KKKT Lutheran Dispensary’s pharmacist, did a great job in handling my duties while absent with reports and business matters in order.  What a blessing he is.

This year, my focus will be on two key initiatives:  developing plans for the much-needed specialty hospital and marketing efforts to increase business at the dispensary.  This will be a tremendous challenge for me, so I ask for your prayers.   

On Sunday, February 2, Bishop Nzelu’s passion for sharing the gospel filled Tree of Life as choirs from Magonzo Lutheran and Mwadui Lutheran churches blessed the service with joyful and uplifting music.  The dedication of the new parsonage, held on the front steps of the new home,   brought thankful smiles to our members’ faces.

Bishop Nzelu introduced our first pastor at Tree of Life Lutheran Church, Wizunza Village Pastor George will be installed in the next few weeks and we are so thankful.   As I get to know him, I will share more of his background.  Emmanuel and Levocatus love to sit with me during the service, and it is my great joy!

Here are some highlights as we kick off 2025 with praise and thanksgiving:

* Parsonage is complete and ready for move-in.

* Electricity and water will soon be available!!!

* Pastor George will be installed as Tree of Life’s first pastor.

* Construction will soon begin for the children’s Bible Study area.

* A smooth concrete floor will be poured inside Tree of Life Church.

* The church will get a fresh coat of paint.

* The dispensary has paid off much of its debt and our goal is to be debt free at the end of this year.

* While the increase in patient volume is minimal, management of the funds, reduction in claims errors, and more efficient processes has improved our overall performance, and has allowed investments in laboratory equipment.

WE PRAY:

“O Lord, source of all good things, I thank you for your abundant blessings to the people here in Shinyanga, and especially for your beloved Tree of Life congregation.  We are so grateful, and look anxiously forward to realize what great wonders You will show us in this new year.  We especially pray for Your guidance in our plans for the specialty hospital, that these are not only our plans, but Your plans.  As we seek funding for this venture, turn hearts to share our dream of serving the medically needy in Shinyanga and the surrounding areas.  In the name of Jesus, we ask.” Amen

If you’d like to support the specialty hospital, please note this on your check or send an email to me or Richard designating that purpose. Thank you for your continued support of my basic needs as well.