Missionary Retreat - August 25-27

Shown here are some of the missionaries who gathered last weekend for a retreat at Namwianga. Front row: Brian and Sondra Davis from Solwezi, Kathi and Roy Merritt from Namwianga, Michelle Drew, visiting from Nashville. Back row next to us are Sheri Sears from Namwianga, Lauren Hickmon, living with us, Rita and Don Boyd from Solwezi, and Rod Calder who with his wife, Sue, runs an orphanage on land adjoining Namwianga. In front of Rita Boyd is Ruhtt Mbomwae from Namwianga. Not pictured are Bart and Staci Bruington.


This weekend’s Missionary Retreat at Namwianga provided times of fellowship, inspiration, and sharing for those of us on the mission field in Zambia. Here are some of the highlights.

The total attendance was 34, although we never quite managed to have everyone here at the same time. We had 10 family units represented, including 18 children who ranged in age from 2 – 18 years.

We gathered at our house for our meeting times and most of the meals. David presented messages on the theme of “Defining Moments.” We had wonderful sessions of singing and sharing. Perhaps my favorite was when we all shared what we have learned about God during our time in Zambia. Most of us agreed that serving in Zambia has led us to realize that we are totally insufficient on our own strength. We have learned to rely on God fully and trust him completely.

The MKs (Missionary Kids) enjoyed being together. Our veranda became their hangout where they created works of art on long sheets of butcher paper, played marathon card games, and even presented puppet shows for the adults to enjoy. On Saturday morning we loaded up the Missionary Kids and traveled to Rod and Sue Calder’s farm where we did a Vacation Bible School program for the children of the farm workers. The MKs read flip charts, acted out stories, did puppets, handed out crafts, and had a great time together.

We were blessed to have food leftover from the medical mission to serve at some of our meal times. Brentwood Oaks, our sponsoring congregation, had also sent some special treats this summer. Many in our group were thrilled to enjoy tortilla chips, saltine crackers, chocolate chip cookies, Crystal Lite, and other American delights that aren’t available here in Zambia. (You know you've been on the mission field a while when saltine crackers are a thrill!) Lauren proved to be a great help in the kitchen. She and I have decided we could do well with a catering business someday.

In addition to our official gatherings, we also had times to just talk, relax, gaze at the stars, and enjoy each other’s company. Fellowshipping with those who share the same goals and dreams for the Lord’s work in Zambia is indeed a great blessing.