Bishop Emmanuel shared with us about some exciting developments in his diocese. He is responsible for 175 parishes and 400 church plants that are not yet able to support their own minister. It was deeply moving and challenging to hear of DWT’s passion for evangelism. Bishop Emmanuel’s goal is to see five new churches planted each year and in the context is very achievable. It was encouraging to hear that relationships between Muslims and Christians are very amicable.Training of new pastors is vital as the church grows. Here the role of the Lake Tanganyika Theological College (where we sponsor four students) is key. Plans are to move the college to a new site and to provide ongoing training for those already in ministry but who may have only had primary school education.Churches build their own church buildings mostly with local materials but roofing materials are costly as they are not available locally. Financial help from overseas towards buying roof materials is a great blessing. The cathedral in Kasulu at the centre of the diocese is being rebuilt and he hopes the new building will be dedicated in August 2024. Climate change is on the agenda too with plans to plant trees around the diocese. What a privilege it is for Hucclecote church to be involved in God's mission in DWT through prayer, sponsorship and our link church of Mwilanvya in Kasulu.'We pray that God will open a door for His message so that our brothers and sisters in Western Tanganyika may proclaim the mystery of Christ and proclaim it clearly, as they should.' (Col.4:3-4)
For the last few weeks, we have had some unwelcome visitors in the form of bears. Due to lack of food this year, more bears than ever are coming into towns and cities looking for something to eat. The problem has been particularly bad here in the north of Japan. There have been several sightings in Hanamaki and other nearby towns. In kindergarten the children learn all about bears and what to do if you encounter one. At the moment people are encouraged not to go outside unless they need to.When we came to Japan, we were prepared for the possibilities of natural disasters but we did not imagine that we would be endangered by bears.Obviously, compared to other things happening around the world we are doing well and are grateful to live in a safe country. But it also makes us aware that our lives are in God's hands. Which has become a good talking point with our friends when the discussion turns to the bearshttps://www.theguardian.com/world/2023/oct/29/japan-rise-bear-attacks-food-struggle
