July 2011

Kathmandu, Nepal

A former kings’ palace was the venue of our July training in Children’s Ministry. Situated in a suburb of Kathmandu with views of the Himalayas on a fine day, Miriam and Margaret were hosted like royalty at this Nepal Theological Seminary.  

The trip was a miracle as a result of divine connections.  Gwen from Full Gospel Caboolture, Australia had visited our team when training in Kakuma, Northern Kenya and connected us with her friends Puran and Beulah in Kathmandu.  Puran is the Academic Dean at NTS who hosted us. God enabled Gwen to underwrite the airfares for Miriam and Margaret to fly.  God had already been preparing us, speaking to us of 'doing a new thing... making a way.. a path through the mighty waters..' and asking 'Who are these who fly like a cloud?'

28 second and third year undergraduates undertook the 3 week course.  Most students had their hearts and minds changed in regard to children. The mixed religious and class community surrounding the school were targeted for the afternoon practical sessions and good friendships were built between the students, the children and their parents.

For the third week, the students willingly walked an extra half hour each way to reach out to the community of a new church plant started by the Academic Dean, Puran and his wife, Beulah.  The children and their parents were invited for a special afternoon at the church. One highlight was the parenting seminar with 11 parents consisting mostly Hindu women.  Over 40 children attended the children’s program and the following week’s Children’s Ministry hosted 36 children when they normally have 3.  Students have committed to continuing the kids clubs in the community on a weekly basis.  Please pray that the enthusiasm of the students will continue.