"Because of the LORD'S great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness." Lamentations 3:22-23

This is a very special report in the life of Kafue Reformed Baptist Church. The week culminated in an ordination service of the first elder of the church, Mr Seke L., on Sunday, the 5th of July. Mr Seke L. is among the three men that I have been working with in the past two years. A month ago the members voted that he be an elder of the church. This also marked the attainment of autonomy for the church, from it's mother church, Kabwata Baptist Church.

This particular Sunday will remain a memorable Sunday for the church, and particularly for me as the missionary pastor and my family. In September 2000 my family moved into Kafue to start this work, being sent and supported by Kabwata Baptist Church. Over the years this support has been very consistent and a source of encouragement for me and my family.

First, let me express my thanks to the elders of KBC for having taken me on as one of their earliest missionary pastors. I am grateful for your support and confidence in me. Together, the Lord has faithfully brought us this far. I have learnt a lot in the last eight years. These lessons I trust will be very helpful for years to come as the LORD lends us breath.

The Deacons have also made the work here move forward. At least my family has never gone hungry in all these years. This gave me the ability to concentrate on the core business of the church. To them I say thank you; that paper work you do is an absolute necessity. With these lessons learned I am now sure the mission work of KBC can move forward.

To the church (KBC) and the individual members who have practically shared in the labours of the work here, in various ways, may I please through the elders express my gratitude for the manner in which you have sacrificed your resources in support of this work. Now at least we can see the fruit of that support. Please express my thanks to the church. Theirs has been an inestimable support. I shudder to think how it would have been without that support. Kabwata is still supporting other mission fields, and I trust the same support and even more will be given to them as well. There is a lot that cell groups can do make the lonely work of the mission field a joy and a fruitful labour.

Let me also say thank you to the partners of Kabwata's mission work, particularly those from outside the country. I think particularly of Heart Cry Mission Society, whose faithful support I have enjoyed these past eight years. To them I say thank you. That support has kept me (and others) joyfully on the mission field. Together we have tried with our feeble efforts to obey the Great Commission.

To GOD alone be the glory. Continue to pray for us.

"...give me neither poverty nor riches, but give me only my daily bread. Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you and say, "Who is the LORD?" Or I may become poor and steal, and so dishonour the name of my God"

Kennedy S.