So here we are, not only in South Africa, but actually in White River and more precisely and unexpectedly in the Hands village itself two days early! How's that for ahead of schedule! The flight was good, arrival OK, and onward journey by promptly arriving minibus reasonably smooth. On the way we noticed the contrasting housing close to the airport and then on the outskirts of Johannesburg, the huge areas of mining, logging, some horticulture with irrigation but generally a very parched landscape.
Stopping briefly by this oasis... actually a service station, we appreciated the (captive) wild-life and welcome food/drinks.
Our arrival about 13:00 at the African School of Mission was something of a surprise to them... so after some discussions and phone calls we discovered that, Hands could, after all manage to take us in early... Our briefing a few minutes ago just confirmed the hand of God in guiding those here to prepare our rooms yesterday instead of, as originally planned, tomorrow, so all was in place for us to be able to come straight here and avoid further packing and unpacking.
We were able to unpack, freshen up and do a walk round led by our experienced team members, culminating in a brief but moving prayer session in the chapel. We've had a wonderfully warm welcome from all the team members here who, as we proceeded rushed out of their homes to welcome us all. What a super start.
We were then (in my case only just!) able to walk down to ASM where we were treated to a delicious meal... then back here for the welcome and first orientation session... now early to bed for some and we'll follow soon.
Blogged by Vaughan
Safe in God's hands :-) Thanks for the blog, hope the walking gets easier :-)
ReplyDeleteSafe in God's hands :-) Thanks for the blog, hope the walking gets easier :-)
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