Vessel Of Mercy

World Relief

2007-06-18T20:30:00.000-04:00

I am currently volunteering at World Relief. World Relief works in many different nations meeting the physical and spiritual needs of people all over the world.

Here in Jacksonville, World Relief works with refugees providing "vital assistance during the 'early days' after a family's arrival - helping them find accommodation, employment and adjust to American life. Above all, our church-centered ministries show hurting refugees that Christians care."

The main job I've been doing since January is teaching an English class to the new refugees. I teach four mornings a week and am enjoying it very much. The classes are unique because there are people from different nations with different levels of English, ranging from no English at all to a basic understanding of grammar and pronunciation. Never a dull moment.

In the last few weeks my classes have consisted of people from Myanmar (formerly Burma), Sudan, Somalia, Cuba, Russia, Belarus, Afghanistan, and Ethiopia.

This past Saturday we had a picnic to celebrate the upcoming World Refugee Day (June 20th). Below are some photos from the picnic:

Fatuma (from Ethiopia), me, and Cadicha (from Somalia)

World Refugee Day

2007-06-14T19:58:00.000-04:00

June 20th is World Refugee Day.

In 2000, the United Nations General Assembly designated June 20th as World Refugee Day to recognize and celebrate the contribution of refugees throughout the world.

"Every year on June 20 the world honours the courage, resilience and strength of refugees. On this sixth anniversary of the United Nations-designated World Refugee Day, thousands of organisations in hundreds of countries will come together to focus global attention not only on the plight of refugees and the causes of their exile, but also on their determination and will to survive and on the contributions they make to their host communities."

Honeymoon in Canada

2006-08-26T11:19:00.000-04:00

Here's some photos of our honeymoon in Banff and Jasper, Canada:

Johnston Canyon, Banff National Park

Athabasca Falls, Jasper National Park

More to come soon.....

I'm Back

2006-08-21T17:36:00.000-04:00

Okay, I know it's been over 2 months since I blogged, I'm not even sure if anyone is still out there. The past months have been spent mainly in Tampa, Florida planning a wedding. It took more time than I anticipated and the big event happened August 5th.

I haven't gotten my official photos back yet but a friend posted a photo and video on his blog. He even posted the program! You can view it here.

Jim and I had a wonderful honeymoon in the Canadian Rockies (Banff, Jasper) and are now back in Jacksonville, Florida where we will live. Not sure what I will be doing yet in the way of work but hope to work with other cultures in some capacity. I hope to keep this blog updated but it will take a somewhat different look at times since I am not on the field right now.

Women Changing the World: Reform Takes Time

2006-06-07T00:36:00.000-04:00

The president of Liberia, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, on the Oprah Winfrey Show a couple of weeks ago.

Check it out here.

Re-entry

2006-05-12T13:51:00.000-04:00

I'm now living back in the States after 7 years of living on a ship mainly in West Africa. My last week on the ship was filled with busyness of getting rid of stuff and packing. It all came down to two suitcases, okay three suitcases since I sent some things home with Jim. I liked the idea of not having a lot of stuff, but now I'm back in the land of "stuff" and that's an adjustment, but best left for a future post.

I've been back almost a week and haven't gone through any major reversal culture shock yet. Maybe it's because I've kept busy with planning my wedding.

So, here's a few observations I've had while adjusting back to living in a developed country:

1- I have to carry a purse now. A backpack just doesn't work in this culture. So, I have my new "re-entry purse". Any woman returning to the States must have one, right Stephanie?

2- I need to buy shoes. I came home with the shoes on my feet, Reef flip-flops. Fortunately it's summer time in Florida so I can get away with it some of the time. In Africa I had my "on ship" flip-flops and my "off ship" flip-flops; didn't need more than that!

3- It's much easier being a vegetarian in the US. I can buy just about any fruit or vegetable I want but it comes at a price. The avocados half the size of those in Liberia are about $2 while the large Liberian ones are 50 cents. I haven't even checked the price of cucumbers and I won't since that was the staple on the ship.

Right now I'm still trying to adjust back to this time zone but hope to continue to post on what's going on in W. Africa and with Mercy Ships.

"We Are Trying"

2006-04-30T11:48:00.000-04:00

Many of you have been following the story of Promise and her 18 month old son, BK. I met them over a year ago at our medical screening in Liberia. Mercy Ships was unable to help the young boy and she was sent away. I was able to visit them in their home often over the last year. You can read more here .

Last September BK's father met a man from the States who paid for BK, his mother and father to go to South Africa to have the surgery he needed. A shunt was put in and BK was doing much better. Unfortunately, his doctors said that BK would not survive for long if he remained in Liberia, where the continuing medical care he needs is not accessible.

On my most recent visit to their home, Jim came with me and we were able to meet BK's father, BK Sr. This was the first time I met him. I found him to be a gentle man who cared for his son very much. He gave up going to computer school so the money could go to BK's care. He recently lost his job and when I asked him how he is able to get by h e replied with a common Liberian answer; "we aretrying." And he added, "if we don't keep trying we will go to an early grave." I have come to learn that this is the reality here and many "are trying" day by day.

Please pray for BK and his parents as they seek the best solution for them all. I will go to say goodbye tomorrow.

Royesville School

2006-04-29T18:54:00.000-04:00

Last year I posted on the school in Royesville that the rebels had destroyed during the war. A Mercy Ship's team, along with local workers, took this project on and now the children are back in school.
While Jim was here, we had the opportunity to visit the school. This is the first time I had seen it in a year, what a difference!

Bassa Man, Bassa Woman

2006-04-24T06:57:00.001-04:00

Jim and I had a great time together the past 2 weeks. He has returned to the States where I will follow in less than 2 weeks.

On Jim's first full day we traveled to the village of Joe Bar where I was starting a new class but also checking up on the class I started in February. I was eager to see them since it had been a few weeks since turning it over to the local teachers. And I wanted them to meet Jim.

We greeted the class and then went across the hall to start the new class. After about an hour, Jim and I were summoned to my old class. Esther, the participant who's the class leader, told Jim to sit down and then two of the students took me to another room. They had made a beautiful African outfit for me. When they finished dressing me, Jim was brought into the room. The two women pulled out a matching shirt for him. When we returned to the classroom in our new attire, there was a lot of cheering, "Bassa (a local tribe) woman and Bassa man". It was truly an honor that they went to all this trouble, not even knowing for sure that Jim would be there that day. The outfits were well made and of fine material, I was overwhelmed by their kindness and generosity. Last year I was given a Bassa name that I go by when I'm working, it's Janjay, meaning grace. The students decided Jim needed a Bassa name too. Garjay (not sure of the spelling) which means "Man business". Hmmm, I may need further clarification on that one.

Sunday

2006-04-05T11:07:00.000-04:00

In one month I leave Mercy Ships after 7 years of service to the poor and needy in West Africa. It has been a big part of my life, something that I'm unable to describe with words. Only those who have been here can begin to understand.

That's one of the reasons why this Sunday is important to me. It's this Sunday that Jim, my fiance, is coming to visit me here in Liberia. It's been almost 3 months since we've seen each other. I'm looking forward to spending time with him, showing him this important part of my life and making new memories.

Please pray for both of us during this time. Jim will be here until the 20th of April.

Literacy in Prison

2006-04-05T10:25:00.000-04:00

Our team has begun working in the prison now through the help of Prison Fellowship. One of the original facilitators we trained in January is teaching and training others to teach.

To read more about it go here.

Signs

2006-04-02T09:35:00.000-04:00

I've added quite a few interesting signs to my "Liberia: Culture, Signs and Scenes" photo set. Check it out here. To view, click on "View as slideshow" in the upper right hand side of the page.

Total eclipse of the Sun

2006-03-29T05:13:00.000-05:00

This morning many of us stood on the dock waiting for the eclipse of the sun. In nearby countries, such as Ghana, it was a total eclipse but here in Liberia it was about 85%. There were many discussions of the science behind this as we stared at the sun through x-ray film. Not all of us thought ahead for the fancy glasses, so x-ray film was used to protect our eyes. It was cloudy most of the time but we were able to see some of it. Most of all, it was just a nice break in the day.

Caught

2006-03-29T05:09:00.000-05:00

Charles Taylor, described as " as one of the three most important wanted war crimes suspects in the world" has been caught in Nigeria near the Cameroon border.

Taylor missing from Nigerian home

2006-03-28T07:48:00.000-05:00

What many were afraid of has happened. Charles Taylor, who is supposed to stand trial in Sierra Leone for war crimes, is missing from his Nigerian home.

Finally!!!

2006-03-26T05:26:00.000-05:00

Nigeria has agreed to hand over former warlord Charles Taylor, who faces war crime charges, to the Liberian government. Taylor faces 17 charges of war crimes and crimes against humanity for his part in the civil war in Sierra Leone. Read the full AP article here.

"An international tribunal indictment says Taylor is criminally responsible for the destruction of Liberia and Sierra Leone and for the murder, rape, maiming and mutilation of more than a half million Sierra Leoneans. An additional 2.5 million people were forced from their homes."

If all is successful, Mr. Taylor would be the first former African head of state to be tried for crimes against humanity. This has the potential to send a clear signal to other African leaders that they cannot destroy their people for their own gain.

Human Rights Watch has called for Nigeria to take Taylor into custody so he can't escape justice.

Lord, May justice be seen and may the people in Liberia be able to live in peace during this time.

World Water Day

2006-03-22T11:08:00.000-05:00

Today is World Water Day

More than 1 billion people around the world, mostly in Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, do not have access to clean water. That's 20% of the population. The United Nations estimates that the lack of clean water leads to the death of more than 4,500 children every day.

To find out how you can get involved and make a difference go here.

Promise and Prayer

2006-03-19T04:39:00.000-05:00

Many of you may remember last year when I wrote about a woman named Promise. She is a young woman who came to the medical screening to get help for her 6-month old boy. We were unable to help her baby but I visited her several times last year to pray with her and try to comfort her during this time. You can read more here and here.

When I returned to Liberia in January I had a lot of catching up to do and wasn't able to find the time to visit right away. A couple of weeks ago I returned to Promise's house to see how she was doing, I wasn't even sure if her baby, B.K., was still alive. Sadly, when I arrived to her house I was told she had moved and no one knew where. I wasn't sure what to do but to offer up a prayer that I would somehow find her.

I have begun a new literacy class this past week in an area called 'Patience Shop' and once again have so enjoyed these women and their eagerness to learn. Last Tuesday I was teaching from the 'classroom' which is someone's garage. As I teach, many people walk by and stop to check out what is going on. I noticed one lady that stopped kept staring at me and then I recognized that it was Promise! Here I am in a different area of Monrovia and God brings her right into my path. I have to honestly say that when I prayed that prayer of finding her I didn't really believe it would be so easy. I didn't have to find her, God found her and brought her to me!

I was only able to talk to Promise briefly but found out that B.K. is still alive and someone had paid for her and her son to go to South Africa to get the surgery he needed. He still appears to have some problems and I will try to meet with her next week to find out the full story.

Thank you to all who prayed for B.K., please continue to pray for him and his family. I will update more soon.

Embarrassed No More

2006-03-04T11:23:00.000-05:00

"I don't want to be embarrassed anymore", "I want to help my children with their homework", "I don't want to get cheated in the market", "I want to be able to read to my children", "I want to read the Bible".

The first day I began the literacy class in Joe Bar I asked the participants why they wanted to learn to read and write. The above statements are a sample of the answers I received and I sensed the urgency in their voices. They were tired of being called names and told they were stupid. They so desired simple things that can be taken for granted like the ability to read to their children.

This was a month ago and yesterday I said good-bye to the class in Joe Bar so I can help start another class. The national teachers we trained back in January have been doing most of the teaching the last two weeks and they are more than ready to take over completely; I need to get out of the way.

This last month I have seen many of them go from not being able to write the letter 'f' to begin reading words on their own. They have a long way to go but to see their excitement because they know they are learning is so encouraging.

Before I left I gave them each a Bible and prophetically declared over them that they will all be able to read it. One of the participants stood up and spoke on behalf of the class, thanking me for all I had done and then she said, "We now have confidence and we thank God for that. We will not be embarrassed anymore".

Adult Literacy Update

2006-02-19T18:20:00.000-05:00

When I returned to Liberia in mid January I jumped right back into my job of working with Adult Literacy. The team I'm working with from the ship was in week 2 of a 3 week training of 21 facilitators who were being trained to teach adult literacy to people in their community and beyond.

What our team does is train the facilitators and then help them open up classes. We opened up 3 classes in February and plan 6 more in the next 2 months. The class I'm assisting with is in an area called Joe's Bar (seriously) a little over an hours drive from the ship. I have taught in and modeled the class for 2 weeks and then starting next week the facilitators we trained will teach as I observe. After 2 weeks of observing I will do the same thing in a new class during the month of March.

I really enjoy the teaching and find life and joy in it. In some ways it is difficult to hand the class over to the facilitators but I'm so impressed with their abilities and the compassion they've displayed that I feel good about turning it over to them. It is their class and they are the ones who will remain after I'm long gone.

Please pray for the classes we opened in January. That the participants will be able to learn well and the facilitators will be able to sustain the class and continue to teach with compassion.

I've posted a few new photos from the training here.

Bono's Sermon

2006-02-04T08:42:00.000-05:00

This week rock star Bono spoke at the National Prayer Breakfast in Washington D.C. Regardless of your opinion of him, he makes a challenging point about what our responsibilities are to the poor in this world, specifically Africa.

To read the text go here, it may require a free registration.

All Hail, Liberia, Hail!

2006-01-28T11:12:00.000-05:00

Two weeks ago I left the States to return to Liberia, with mixed emotions, after a 3+ month visit home. After being home for a long period of time I wondered how quickly I would adjust back to life in W. Africa and on the ship. My return to the ship began with a tearful good-bye in Tampa, Florida. I flew to Washington D.C and ran to my connection that would take me to Brussels, Belgium. In Brussels I would have a long layover before getting on a flight to Monrovia, the capital of Liberia.

While sitting on the plane in D.C., I felt a familiarity and soon realized that many of the people sitting around me were Liberians, living in the USA, returning to their homeland for the inauguration of the newly elected president. There was a festive mood and I immediately felt a connection to my fellow travellers. I was able to chat with them and felt included in their group of about 15. They asked about the ship and wanted to know more. One gentleman sitting behind was a doctor and wanted to see the ship. I told him I'd be happy to show him around while he was in Monrovia and he gave me his card. When I looked at the card his name was very familiar, I asked him, "any relation?" And he said quietly, "I'm her son". It seems I was sitting with Dr. James Sirleaf, the son of the new president of Liberia.

The flight from Brussels to Monrovia was full with many people planning on attending the inauguration of the first elected president since the end of a brutal civil war. Again, there was such a sense of excitement for what this means to their beloved country.

After over 30 hours of travelling, the wheels touched down on the runway of Roberts International airport and the majority of the passengers broke out in song, loudly singing the Liberian national anthem. All Hail, Liberia, Hail! It was very moving and brought a tear to my eye.

At that point I felt a reassurance that this is where God has me for this time.

What's Happening?

2006-01-12T15:11:00.000-05:00

As some of you may have noticed, it's been a while since I've updated my blog. I guess you can say I've been a little "distracted" with other things. So for those of you who don't know yet, on January 1st, 2006 I said yes to spending the rest of my life with a wonderful man!!

Yes, I'm ENGAGED!

Jim and I have been spending a lot of time together recently but that will come to an end this Saturday because I will be heading back to the ship in Liberia (Jim lives in Jacksonville, FL). I will finish my time with Mercy Ships and return to the States in May. We plan to be married in August.

I've been home for 3 1/2 months and obviously have enjoyed my time here. Along with spending time with Jim, I was home for the first time in 6 years for the holidays. I do look forward to getting back to W. Africa though and finishing well. I also hope to get back into the swing of updating my blog more frequently. I arrive in Liberia on Sunday, the day before the presidential inauguration. Stay tuned for more.............

For Peace and Reconciliation

2005-12-21T16:20:00.000-05:00

George Weah has finally dropped his claim to have won last month's Liberian presidential race. In the midst of claims of election fraud, Weah's supporters (many ex-combatants) have been protesting and threatening much more in a fragile country.

The BBC reports:

The move will allow the inauguration of Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf as Africa's first elected woman head of state.
"Our decision is based on our desire to see the Liberian people achieve durable and genuine peace," Weah told reporters.

Mr Weah said his decision to drop his allegations of electoral fraud would give Liberians " the opportunity to carry on the business of national recovery and redemption in an atmosphere of tranquility", Reuters reports.

The inauguration will take place in January and hopefully Liberians will be able to continue to move ahead in "redemption and national recovery".

To read BBC's full report go here.

Coast to Coast

2005-12-06T15:30:00.000-05:00

Riding across the state of Florida, 205 miles in 3 days.
I'm the second one in the group, I could always be found in a crowd because of my glow-in-the-dark handle bar!

Hawa

2005-11-18T08:20:00.000-05:00

The crew on the Anastasis may not be able to leave the ship due to some unrest in Monrovia, but that doesn't keep them from doing what they are there to do. The surgeries began last week and here is a before and after photo of seven year old Hawa.

Note to the squeamish: the before photo is difficult to look at, but unfortunately it was a reality to this beautiful 7 year old girl.

Scott is back on the ship as a photographer. If you want to read Scott's up to date stories about what is going on with Mercy Ship's go here.

Liberia's still waiting

2005-11-16T09:49:00.000-05:00

The presidential elections took place last week but the people of Liberia will have to wait for the results.

It appears that the first ever elected African female president, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, has won, defeating opponent George Weah. The elections were peaceful and well monitored. It seems Mr. Weah is not happy with the results and has called for an investigation into the process. He has asked his supporters, many ex-combatants, to remain peaceful while the investigation is going on.

Last Friday there were clashes with his supporters and the UN soldiers near the American Embassy.

The BBC reports :

In light of the persistent street protests, which are causing panic among citizens... resulting in intermittent closures of schools and business houses, government can no longer allow this situation to continue," interim leader Gyude Bryant said in an address to the nation.

"Government will not under any circumstances accept a situation where some citizens decide to hold the rest of the country hostage because they do not agree with a particular issue or course of action," he said.

Mr Weah has urged his supporters - who include many former combatants - to remain calm. But a CDC party official warned that if Mrs Johnson-Sirleaf is declared the winner, there will be "resistance".

Please continue to pray for peace in Liberia. The ship is there now and the crew have limited shore leave while the investigation is happening.

Liberia's 'Iron lady' claims win

2005-11-10T15:10:00.000-05:00

Results from Tuesday's election in Liberia are coming in and it appears that Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf has won. Her opponent, George Weah, is claiming that the election was fraudulent. Please continue to pray for peace in Liberia as the results become final.

Link: BBC NEWS Africa Liberia's 'Iron lady' claims win

Liberia is ready

2005-11-07T04:55:00.000-05:00

Link: Liberia 'ready' for post-war poll

This Tuesday is Liberia's presidential run-off, the first after the end of 14 years of war. So far the process has been peaceful and orderly. Please pray that will continue and that the right person will be elected to lead this country in a critical time.

Ex-football star George Weah is facing Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf - seeking to be Africa's first elected female leader.

Some 15,000 UN troops are in Liberia to ensure the election goes smoothly. They say they will deal swiftly with any trouble-makers.

But correspondents say the past few months of campaigning have been remarkably peaceful.

These elections are designed to cement the transformation of Liberia to a democratic state.

Correspondents say whoever wins will have the enormous task of rebuilding a country shattered by the long war. Many buildings in Monrovia were destroyed and there is no mains electricity supply or running water.

Only 20% of the population can read and write.

Update

2005-11-02T17:33:00.000-05:00

The ship arrived in Liberia last Friday. There is much anticipation as we return to this land ravaged by war but populated with beautiful people. It's hard not to be on board as the ship returns, but I know God has me here at this time.

I've posted on the elections in Liberia and the process was peaceful. There will now be a run-off between the top two vote getters later this month.

I've been in Van Texas the last couple of weeks visiting friends and Mercy Ship's International Operations Center. I'm back in Tampa now and just completed a 200+ mile bike ride across the state of Florida. I went with about 70 other riders mostly from my church from one coast to the other over a 3 day period. This is an event I've done several times in the past, but it's been almost 9 years and I haven't been able to do a lot of riding in W. Africa. I was surprised at how well I did considering I wasn't able to do much training, but I'm not sure if I would have been able to prepare for sitting on a bike for almost 20 hours!

Another kind of terrorism

2005-10-24T09:10:00.000-04:00

I saw this Photo journal on the BBC today about a Sierra Leone woman's struggle after rebels cut off her hand.

Lord, help the people that are still being affected by this horrible war. And may I hear your voice in what part I might play in that help.

Trailer parks and Truck stops

2005-10-14T04:23:00.000-04:00

For the past 6 years I've lived on a ship and traveled by sea to many different nations. I'm in the US for holiday and this week I'm traveling by land, but not by car. In my parent's retirement years, their mode of transportation is an RV (recreational vehicle). My Mom has a difficult time flying so an RV works out better for their mission trips.

I've seen a lot traveling all over Europe and Africa with the ship and have adapted to many different cultures but I'm learning there's always more as I sit this morning in a RV park in Tallahassee, Florida. We are on our way to East Texas to Mercy Ship's International Operations Center. I'm going to visit friends, my parents are going to volunteer for 3 weeks.

On the road again....

Peaceful process

2005-10-12T04:11:00.000-04:00

The elections in Liberia went well yesterday and now it's time to wait. The counting began at midnight last night in the capital, Monrovia, where there is no electricity, ballots were checked by battery powered lights.

"Turnout was huge with long queues of voters. Observers praised the conduct of and lack of violence on Tuesday."

Even though people had to wait in the heat for over five hours in some places, the process was peaceful.

"The head of the United Nations mission in Liberia, Alan Doss, said Liberians had "voted for peace".

"At all polling places I visited, I was struck by the patience, the determination and the friendliness displayed by all Liberians as they set about exercising this most precious right and responsibility," he said. With so many candidates, a second round is being predicted in four weeks time between the top two presidential candidates, unless someone secures more than 50% of the vote."

"The people of Liberia can be proud that they have successfully participated in this important step for the future of their country".

Liberians queue for historic vote

2005-10-11T08:21:00.000-04:00

Liberians ready to vote. So far the process has been without any major incidents, please continue to pray.

Election

2005-10-10T17:09:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow, October 11th, will be the first presidential election in Liberia since the end of more than a decade of civil war. Please pray that the process will peaceful and fair.

You can read more about it here and here.

Good-bye Cape Town

2005-10-04T05:11:00.000-04:00

The ship will remain in Cape Town until October 18th before sailing back to Liberia, but I'm taking my holiday and heading to the States.

I leave today and have a night in London. I will arrive in Florida on Thursday. I'm excited about seeing family and friends and spending the first Christmas in six years with them.

I've so enjoyed Cape Town and East London and the friends I've made here over the past three months. May God continue to have His hand on this country.

Tours and Bloggers

2005-09-26T03:43:00.000-04:00

I'm still in Cape Town where we have just finished our Public Relations phase with tours and receptions and our now moving into loading all the cargo necessary for our time in Liberia.

This past weekend has been the busiest time for tours in the 25+ years of the Anastasis. On Saturday there were approximately 3,500 people coming to see our home and hear what God has been doing. The numbers aren't in for Sunday yet but in all estimations in beat Saturday's. It is humbling to see people wait for over 2 hours in line to tour our ship.

On another note, I'm relatively new to the blogsphere, beginning in January, but have come to appreciate many of you. Some of the blogs I read, I know the people. While others I don't know personally but feel like I do. I am drawn to the blogs about Africa and the issues pertaining to the poor and the needy.

This past Thursday Steve and Amy from the blog two and two makes five came to the ship to tour and say hello. It was fun meeting them and chatting about our ministries and Africa. They have recently moved to Cape Town to work with ServLife. Steve and Amy, thanks for stopping by and may God bless you as you move into this next phase of your lives.

African penguin

2005-09-19T13:25:00.000-04:00

Justice?

2005-09-15T20:57:00.000-04:00

As I continue to enjoy the "divine"city of Cape Town I am keeping my eye on what is going on in W. Africa.

From 2001-2004 the Anastasis worked in Sierra Leone. Like Liberia, this was a nation that endured a brutal civil war at the hands of rebels who chopped people's hands and legs off just for fun. Now that the war is over much of the focus has been on integrating the soldiers back into society through vocational training and cash for disarming.

I do see the need for re-integrating the soldiers but, as I saw in Liberia, sometimes the victims are ignored or don't seem to be getting anywhere near the same benefits as the ones that mutilated them. The BBC addresses this issue in this article.

"Since the war's end in 2002, the amputees said ex-fighters have received training and cash for disarming.

But the many people mutilated by both sides in 10-year war have to make their living by begging, they said. "

"Sahr Momodu, whose left leg was chopped by rebel forces in 1994, said he felt cheated as those who mutilated him have been compensated for disarming."

I'm not sure what the answer is but I do know it was difficult to talk with people in Liberia who were victims of the war and are barley getting by day to day. And those that victimized them were being paid to get training.

Cape Town

2005-09-12T16:02:00.000-04:00

We arrived safely in Cape Town on Friday afternoon. It has already been a blessing to be here and I haven't even left the port.

We've begun our Public Relations phase with a good weekend of tours of the ship open to the public and receptions. We will be in this phase for 3 weeks and then begin to load supplies during our remaining time here before heading to Liberia in mid-October.

Sailing

2005-09-07T09:25:00.000-04:00

After a couple days delay, the Anastasis has set sail from East London, South Africa to Cape Town. We should arrive in Cape Town sometime on Friday.

mercy.

2005-09-02T07:04:00.000-04:00

The mercy. exhibit began this week in New York and I know Scott and the rest of his team would appreciate your prayers. The exhibit has gotten some good press like this interview and this story.

May people that come to this exhibit and gala see Jesus Christ and God receive all the glory!

Good-Bye Again

2005-08-24T10:26:00.000-04:00

Do you ever say good-bye to someone and think you'll never see them again? This happens quite a bit with me as I travel to many different countries and live on a ship with constant turn-over. I recently had a pleasant surprise in catching up with 2 special people I worked alongside with for two months of my life in the year 2000. And when I said good-bye to them over 5 years ago, I thought I wouldn't see them again this side of heaven .

This past weekend I went with a friend to Port Elizabeth(PE) about 3 hours from East London here in South Africa. Five years ago I did a ministry related outreach with a team of 15 for 2 months in PE. We lived in a home and worked with a wonderful ministry called Jerusalem Ministries. The couple that runs this ministry are 2 incredible people.

For the past 10 years Derrick and Diane have opened up their home to drug addicts, alcoholics, criminals under house arrest and destitute/homeless men. They provide full board and lodging and a biblically based rehabilitative program to these men as well as helping them integrate back into society with job skills.

In 10 years they have helped over 1200 men. When we stayed with them there were 19 men living in their home. I was amazed how this family has opened up their home to these men. But not only do they open up their home, they become their friend and to some, their family. They live in the same house, eat dinner together, and fellowship together. As I watched them I saw the love of Jesus for these men, sometimes tough love, but love. This is not just a project for them; it's been their way of life over the last 10 years. What an example of Jesus this was for me as well as a challenge in how I "do" ministry.

By the way, they also oversee a children's center for children who are orphaned through Aids, a training program for adults to help them run their own business, many feeding schemes in Walmer Township where 32,000 meals are provided each month through local creches (pre-schools), a poultry project and are starting some new ministries.

May God bless you and sustain you Derrick and Diane! Good-bye for now or until we meet again!

May the Best Man Win

2005-08-15T10:43:00.000-04:00

Campaigning has started for Liberia's first general elections since the end of a 14-year civil war. Please pray for this time leading up to the election on October 11th, that God's man would win and He would receive glory.

Read more here.

Call to Surrender and Justice

2005-08-12T10:06:00.000-04:00

Charles Taylor is the former president of Liberia who 2 years ago yesterday fled Liberia to exile in Nigeria in order that peace could come to Liberia. Liberia had been in a 14 year civil war and the year 2003 is when many in the US heard about this war for the first time. I remember being home on leave and reading about the war in Liberia on the front page of the paper. There was a call from international leaders for Taylor to step down so peace could finally come to Liberia. He finally agreed and has been living in Nigeria ever since.

Besides being a large part of the instability in Liberia, Charles Taylor has been accused of crimes against humanity and war crimes committed during Sierra Leone's civil war. He also claims that he is misunderstood and says, "Jesus Christ was also accused of being a murderer in his time."

Yesterday there was yet another call for Nigeria to surrender Taylor to the Special Court for Sierra Leone:

The Campaign Against Impunity, a coalition made up of some 300 African and international civil society groups was formed to ensure Nigeria's surrender of Charles Taylor to the Special Court for Sierra Leone. Taylor has been accused of 17 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity against the people of Sierra Leone by the Special Court. The crimes include killings, mutilations, rape and other forms of sexual violence, sexual slavery, the recruitment and use of child soldiers, abduction, and the use of forced labor by Sierra Leonean armed opposition groups.

But Nigeria has refused to turn over Taylor.

Despite mounting international pressure from African countries, the United Nations, the European Union and the United States, Nigeria continues to resist surrendering indicted war criminal Charles Taylor to the Special Court for Sierra Leone.

Surrendering Taylor to the Special Court is crucial not only to ensure justice is done for crimes committed during the Sierra Leone conflict, but also to ensure stability in West Africa, the Campaign Against Impunity said. There are consistent reports of Taylor's interference in Liberian politics, despite the terms of the agreement granting him asylum, which prohibits any such meddling.

U.N. Secretary-General Kofi Annan stated that Taylor is reportedly in regular contact with former business, military and political associates in Liberia and is suspected of supporting candidates in Liberia's October presidential election.

The official presedential election campaign in Liberia begins Monday. If Taylor is involved in the elections (which according to his exile agreement he is forbidden to have anything to do with the election or have contact with any potential canidates) it could cause great instability in an already fragile nation.

"The moment for Taylor's surrender to the Special Court is now," said James Paul Allen, a Sierra Leonean human rights activist involved in the campaign. "The indictment for Charles Taylor on war crimes and crimes against humanity must be honored. The victims in Sierra Leone who suffered grave crimes under international law should not be forced to wait any longer."

My $.02: Taylor needs to stand trial. I worked in Sierra Leone over a period of 3 years and just recently in Liberia, I have heard a few of the thousands of horrific stories from innocent people. We serve a God of justice. May justice be realized.

More Background: CNN-Turmoil in Liberia 2003, Timeline: Liberia, Douglas Farah Blog

Updates

2005-08-05T05:57:00.000-04:00

The Anastasis is out of dry dock (yipee!) but the work continues in renovations of this old vessel. The ship will be in shipyard until September 5th here in East London.

I am currently hosting a team of 21 people from a church in California who arrived Wednesday. This is the second time this church has sent a team to help with shipyard projects. I've been in communication and planning with them since December 2004 so it's been good to put some faces with the names and get to know them. They will be here for 2 weeks and have already started full force in renovations.

Scott, our ship's photographer and journalist is back in New York planning a 10 day show and gala event for Mercy Ships. If you are around the Metropolitan Pavilion from August 29th-September 8th, be sure to check it out.

I had an opportunity to visit a game reserve and had a wonderful time with friends. I've posted a few photos on Flickr.

"The Hunger that is Silent"

2005-07-27T05:50:00.000-04:00

I've been following the food crisis in Niger and as I read the articles I'm in a state of disbelief.

According to this timeline the crisis was predicted long ago.

"As lots of children start to starve, the top United Nations aid official says the crisis could have been averted if action had been taken earlier. "

"We have made an appeal since November and told the international community... We did not have any response."

"The world wakes up when we see images on the TV and when we see children dying. We have received more pledges in the past week than we have in six months. But it is too late for some of these children."

150,000 children could die unless they get help soon. And according to Oxfam, "Families are feeding their children grass and leaves from the trees to keep them alive."

Can we as followers of Jesus allow this to continue without responding in some way?

Another BBC news article says, "We came across one child, five months into this world and barely clinging on to life."

"Our harvest failed and we have no food. It is the choice of God," said his mother.

How sad to have the belief that this is the choice of God, to have a hopelessness like this mother.

"It all shows quite clearly that Africa is easily forgotten until, yet again, it is too late."

One way to help is to donate through World Vision or other reputable organizations working in West Africa.

Please continue to pray for the people of Niger.

Contentment

2005-07-18T15:21:00.000-04:00

I've just recently returned from an incredible 4 days at Morgan Bay near the Transkei in South Africa. I am so grateful for this time away and am in awe of the beauty of God's creation.

Ever since I've left Liberia in June, I feel like I haven't been at peace and it reflects somewhat in my posts. I've noticed that I tend to complain about things that I wouldn't so easily complain about while in Liberia. While the ship was in Liberia, I was grateful for the abundance I have. While in South Africa I tend to want because so many others have. The apostle Paul said he was content in all situations.

"I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want." Phil. 4:12

Lord, may I continue to learn the secret of being content in need and in plenty.

Very Dry Dock

2005-07-13T17:13:00.000-04:00

We are in East London for an extended ship yard time. During shipyard each year the ship has to go into dry dock for a week to 10 days. While many are off the ship on holiday, some of us are still here and deal with the inconveniences; no toilets, showers, running water and no usage of the drains. A good thing for me is the present situation has compelled me to join a local gym so I can get a hot shower every day. And yes, I do workout while I'm there!

Tomorrow I'm out of here for a four day vacation at Morgan Bay.

Faith and Perseverance

2005-07-06T23:20:00.000-04:00

The following is from our Communications Department. It shows a story of perseverance and how the body of Christ can come together to help each other help the poor and needy:

Victoria Thomas has borne five children, but she’s known as ’Mama Victoria’ by hundreds more. With her broad, gap-toothed smile and ever-present cell phone, she’s mother to 127 orphans in a family profoundly extended by 14 years of civil war in Liberia.

War claimed the life of Mama Victoria’s husband in 1990. As part of the special security services to then President Samuel K. Doe, he was one of 72 men captured and killed with Doe by rebel leader Prince Johnson. After her husband’s death, Mama Victoria fled with her children to Gbarnga, her home town 100 miles northeast of Monrovia. Despite the tragedy of her loss, she responded with love to the needs of families torn apart like her own.

"When I saw a lot of children whose parents were killed and there was nobody to care for them, I began to take care of the children small small," she explained.

Six years later, Mama Victoria returned to Monrovia and brought her growing family with her. She officially established an orphanage in the Sinkor area of the city with 25 registered children. As war continued to rage, so Mama Victoria’s flock of orphans grew.

"When you hear fire, everybody scatter," she said. "You don’t know the destination of your parents."

Mama Victoria’s reputation for taking in lost or orphaned children spread, and people came to her with children they found or looking for their own lost child. Even the Red Cross brought children to Mama Victoria, some wounded by stray bullets and bombs. But keeping safe from the crossfire wasn’t the only challenge she faced. She had no reliable income and the war meant basic supplies were scarce - at this time, Liberians renamed rice ’gold’ in recognition of its rarity. The orphanage didn’t have enough mattresses, cooking pots, or clothing; sometimes the children ate only one meal of bulgur wheat a day.

"But, by the help of God, people started coming in with little food and things like that," said Mama Victoria. Local families shared food with the orphanage. A Liberian charity brought blankets. After an order of Catholic sisters in Monrovia supplied Mama Victoria with bags of cornmeal, people came to her to beg for one cup of the food. Willy Thomas, Mama Victoria’s fourth child, tells how she put every available resource into the orphanage. Her brother, a doctor in South Africa, sent US$500 to pay for school fees for her five biological children, but Mama Victoria spent the money on food and administrative costs.

"It got us very angry, my brothers and myself," explained Willy. "But it’s what she feels God wants her to do, to take care of less fortunate children. I said to her, ’If this is really from God, then I will join you and see that your dream becomes reality.’"

In 2000, Mama Victoria moved some of her children to a rented house in rural Kingsville, 90 minutes drive from Monrovia. At first, the landlord charged 400 Liberian Dollars (LD)each month, but in time he almost doubled the cost to 750 LD, which Mama Victoria struggled to pay. Finally, after ten months’ unpaid rent, the landlord asked Mama Victoria to leave during the rainy season in 2002.

In a matter of days, Mama Victoria, her family, and the orphans built a temporary shelter out of sticks, mud, and Red Cross tarpaulin. Once settled, they began work on a more permanent home. "The children themselves started making mud bricks," remembered Willy. "We were just praying for God’s favor - there was no budget set aside for such a building." Using dirt collected from two miles away with one wheelbarrow, they successfully laid a foundation. But mud bricks are no match for tropical storms and, when the rains came, all their hard work was washed away. The following year, the children started again, hoping to somehow complete the foundation before the rains returned.

In March 2005, the Mercy Ship Anastasis arrived in Monrovia. The Mercy Ship carries an international volunteer crew bringing free surgical and dental care, educational projects, and development programs to the world’s poorest nations. As these services got underway, the ship’s deck department - the deckhands and officers responsible for managing the ship as a working vessel - began looking for an opportunity to make a difference in addition to their regular work duties.

"During the ship’s time in Sierra Leone last year, the deck department helped plaster the homes of polio-disabled people," said Tony van Alstine, a deckhand onboard the Mercy Ship. "We wanted to serve in a similar way here in Liberia."

A non-governmental organization working in Monrovia put Tony in touch with Mama Victoria. When he visited the orphanage in Kingsville and saw the second foundation built by the children after rains washed the first away, he knew he’d found the deck department’s project.

The department arranged for cement to seal the foundation before the rainy season and sent teams from the ship to the orphanage each week to work with local builders. Encouraged by the work on the foundation, Mama Victoria hired a cavity brick mold and all the boys in the orphanage started vigorously making bricks for the rest of the building.

"The crew looked at each other and thought, ’Could we really build a huge 12-room building in two and a half months?’" said Craig Rogers, Chief Officer. "Where were we going to get the US$600 for the next load of cement and sand? But Victoria and Willy’s shining faith in God’s provision inspired us to step forward and try."

The deck department began telling family and friends both onboard the Mercy Ship and around the world about Mama Victoria’s orphanage. Money started rolling in. By the time the ship left in June, the department collected more than US$20,000 for building materials and labor. The Lebanese business community in Monrovia donated roofing sheets worth US$2,600. The project didn’t stop there. A further US$1,500 paid for a new well, saving the children from walking long distances to get water. Jerome, a teacher at the orphanage school blinded by cataracts, received free surgery onboard the ship and can now see for the first time in ten years. A latrine and a hand-washing area were installed and Mercy Ship nurses taught basic health practices and provided wound care for two girls with infected sores. And, just as importantly, crewmembers came every week to jump rope, draw pictures, and play games with the children.
The help of the Mercy Ship’s deck department completes another chapter in the remarkable story of Mama Victoria’s orphanage. The construction work, healthcare, fun and friendships not only touched the lives of many orphaned children, but also honored Mama Victoria’s long years of perseverance.

"My heart’s desire is to help the Liberian children, especially the orphaned children that don’t have parents," said Mama Victoria. "I bless God, I don’t even know what to say. God brought Mercy Ships for us - God answered my prayer."

James 1:27 Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

Happy New Year

2005-07-04T17:08:00.000-04:00

We have finally made it to our destination! On Friday at 1600 the Anastasis finished a 15 day sail and arrived to East London, South Africa. I am thankful to be on solid ground especially in East London. When I joined Mercy Ships in 1999 I flew from Miami to East London to begin this so far 6 year adventure with the Anastasis.

And what an adventure with God it has been. I tend to look at June as the beginning of my year, as we transition from one phase of our mission to another, so I'm in a reflective mood right now.

A year ago we had just left a 7 month outreach in Sierra Leone and were beginning our Public Relations and Procurement Phase(from June to October) to get supplies to go back to W. Africa. I worked in our gift shop on board during this time. Our first port of call was Liverpool, England. I remember the 4th of July weekend last year traveling by car with a friend throughout Wales and taking in the beautiful country side.

After a few weeks in Liverpool, we sailed to the breath-taking Faroe Islands. These islands are full of the most hospitable people I've met this side of Africa. From the Faroe Islands we sailed to the Netherlands for shipyard and our yearly dry dock. At this point I went to the States to visit family and friends for a month. I returned in Rotterdam and then sailed to Dundee, Scotland. From there I met my parents and a friend from home to stay in a cottage on the grounds of a castle that a friend of Mercy Ships has lent for the crew to use for holidays. It was so nice to drive around Scotland and see the sites with people from home.

From Scotland we sailed to Germany, our main loading port. There we were able to load all the supplies that we procured throughout Europe. It is such a blessing to be able to take so much back to W. Africa because of the generosity of many people.

Finally in late October we made our way to Cotonou, Benin where I started my new job teaching Adult Literacy. And then in February we sailed to Liberia where I continued teaching and training teachers in adult literacy. We left Liberia on June 17th. Those 3 sentences do not do justice to what God has done over the 7+ months, if you want to read more, you can go to my archives located on the sidebar.

That takes me to now. Once again I have a new position on the ship for this phase (we always have to be flexible). I am the interim manager of the Outreach department. My main job will be contacting already established contacts for donations and overseeing the donations coming in for our department. I think it also involves a lot of little things, whatever God has in store.
We are in East London to do much needed repairs on the ship. I am just happy to be back here and look forward to meeting up with old friends made from my 6 month stay in 1999.

I will go to the States in October. I leave Cape Town on October 4th, have an overnight stay in London and then will be in Tampa October 6th.

What a great experience this past year has been; to see old friends and make many new ones, to see people come to the kingdom of God, to help the poor and needy, to be about my Father's business. I am so happy to be on this adventure with God and I know many of you reading this have been a part of this adventure. Thank you for standing by me, I am truly blessed.

I wonder what's in store for this next year????

Day 12

2005-06-29T05:35:00.000-04:00

Heading into the 12th day of the sail we've had to make an unscheduled stop in Cape Town to take on fuel. I'm happy to just be sitting still. The last few days of the sail have been rough, specifically Monday night. I began to question God's calling on my life. :) "Have you really called me to a ship?" I began to ask Him as I lay flat on my back. Sea sickness is a horrible feeling, especially when you know there's no end in sight. Oh, the cost of being a missionary!

But then I'm reminded of all the benefits of being a missionary on a ship. Besides this wonderful community I live in with over 35 different nations working on board, I get to see scenes like below and travel to places that otherwise I would never have an opportunity to go. More importantly, knowing I'm in God's will for this time in my life and sharing His love with people outweighs any of the struggles.

As I enjoy the scenery of Table Mountain with friends and the beauty of the sunrise, I am thankful for God's creation. We should be underway in a few hours and arrive in East London Friday morning.

Day 10

2005-06-26T19:53:00.000-04:00

Day 10 into the sail and I woke up this morning knowing something was different. The past few days at sea the water has been like glass but today I have to hold onto my desk as I type this since my office chair has wheels on it. People are moving all over the office!

As we approach the southern tip of the continent the seas are definitely rougher and the anticipation of arrival on Thursday night has just increased tremendously.

We have been able to see some beautiful wildlife on this sail. Dolphin, whales, flying fish, and today before it got really rough these 2 guys were playing off port side:

I need to get off the computer now. I don't do well in waters like this.

Liberia: Scenes and Signs

2005-06-24T08:22:00.000-04:00

I've made a set of photos that show some of my favorite and not so favorite scenes from Liberia here. This was a country rich in resources and beauty, fourteen years of civil war has changed some of that.

Many of the photos were taken by Scott, our ship's photographer. Thanks Scott for all your work you did this year, you are missed.

Crossing the Equator

2005-06-22T09:47:00.000-04:00

I'm still sailing and early this morning we sailed over the Equator. Yes, at 1:00am we passed into the southern hemisphere. I was sleeping but I don't think anything monumental happened. I did wake up at about 1:00 but I think that had more to do with all the water I drank last night before going to bed.

Sorry, there's nothing more exciting to report about this event but I have included a Fun Fact about the equator and a cross the equator traveling riddle.

And I have a riddle of my own: how can someone experience three seasons (Spring, Summer, and Winter) in three days without ever leaving their home?

Answer: I just did it. June 20th was Spring, the 21st Summer, and on the 22nd it is Winter because I am now in the southern hemisphere and I never left my home.

We're Sailing!

2005-06-18T09:37:00.000-04:00

Yesterday at 1330 the Anastasis left Liberia to head south to South Africa. As we embark on this 13 day sail please pray for safety, smooth seas, and an anointing on all the technical crew.

Beginning the Goodbyes

2005-06-15T11:37:00.000-04:00

After driving through Monrovia traffic for 45 minutes, I pulled off the main road to the familiar rocky dirt road and arrived at the Victory Outreach Church. This has been my classroom for the past 2 months where I've been teaching an adult literacy class and at the same time training local teachers to take over the class.

When I turned off the engine to my Land Rover I heard loud voices saying, "Janjay, Janjay." Janjay is my Bassa name that I've warmly recieved and answer to it as easy as I answer to my American name. I am told it means mercy or one who does good. I'm honored they have given me this name.

This day was the day of the official good-bye party. I was unable to attend the previous class due to some tranportation problems and I could tell that they had missed me. I started the class with review and was thrilled in what they had learned. I'll never forget their faces when they read their first word without my help or when they sounded out and read a sentence for the first time, "this oil is hot".

After about an hour of teaching, we began the the good-bye party. I was told to sit down as they had a program already planned. There were testimonies from students about what I meant to them, songs about God's faithfulness sung and then they presented me with a beautiful dress. We ate and I gave each of them some gifts along with a Bible. I told them my prayer and God's desire is that one day they will be able to read God's word for themselves.

As the ship prepares to leave this Friday I have begun saying goodbye. Cecilia, Martha, Mary, Neta, Sarah, Martha Y, Jacob, Josephine, Hannah, Eric, Emma, John, Doris, Maime, Princess, Teta, and Johnetta, I won't forget you and I know our Father in heaven will never forget you. May He continue to increase your capacity to learn.

Promise Update

2005-06-13T09:35:00.000-04:00

A couple of months ago I wrote about Promise and her son BK. I have gone back to visit them and they appear to be doing well. When I go I'm never sure what to expect, what condition BK will be in if he's still alive. It was good to see them both and BK seems to be getting stronger. The swelling in his head has gone down some. When I asked Promise about it she said that she takes him to the church every week to have people pray for him. She is encouraged that the swelling has gone down. I am encouraged too but am worried because he is not responsive like I see other 8-month old babies; it seems that there is some neurological damage. After talking to some medical professionals, they say that the swelling can go down but he still may not have long to live.

This is where faith and what some may say 'reality' clash. I am encouraged that she is going to the church for prayer. I have seen miraculous healing take place and know it can happen, but is that's what is going on here? Do I want to get Promise's hopes up when the the medical professionals say there is a good chance her baby will die?

Mark 9:23-24 "....Everything is possible for him who believes." .... "I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!"

A Room with a View

2005-06-05T06:55:00.000-04:00

Through my porthole in my cabin I have seen some breathtaking scenes. From sunsets and sunrises (well not so many sunrises, I'm not a morning person) on the open sea to the beautiful mountains of the Faroe Islands to dolphins playing alongside the ship.

For the last few months this has been my view. It seems this ship has been docked in the port of Monrovia for over 3 years. It's a cargo ship and while unloading, the weight distribution was not done correctly. All the cargo shifted to one side and fell into the harbor. You can see the effect it had on the ship!

Day of Prayer for Children at Risk

2005-06-02T14:22:00.000-04:00

Tomorrow, June 4th, is the Day of prayer for children at risk.

It's "a call to pray for transformation in the lives of children at risk around the world. Nearly 30,000 children per day die before their fifth birthday, and those who survive face a host of threats as they grow up. Millions are denied education, are at risk of disease because of lack of access to safe water and adequate sanitation, and fall into exploitative work or worse forms of abuse. More than 16 per cent of children worldwide are severely malnourished. And the spread of HIV/AIDS has left around 15 million children under 18 orphaned - eight out of ten of them in sub-Saharan Africa."

Please remember to pray for the children in Liberia along with the rest of sub-Sharan Africa, like the children in West Darfur.

Lamentations 2:19 Arise, cry out in the night, as the watches of the night begin; pour out your heart like water in the presence of the Lord. Lift up your hands to him for the lives of your children, who faint from hunger at the head of every street.

Beatrice's Burden

2005-05-29T05:33:00.000-04:00

The following is from our Communication's department and comes at a time when I ask, "what am I doing here?" Thank you Lord for your answer.

The sun rose over Monrovia’s John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital chasing away the early-morning cool as a long line formed outside the hospital doors. People who usually hid their afflictions waited patiently, now seeking respite only from the hot sun. Tumours, cleft lips, bullet wounds and keloids marred the faces and bodies of those praying for a miracle.

A forty-year-old woman stepped out of the line and slumped onto the curb, head in hands. The weight of her face seemed to crush her already emaciated frame and she held it as though weary from carrying such a load for so long. She raised her head, exposing the huge tumour growing out of her mouth. It had forced its way through her teeth, into her left eye and bulged out from her cheek. She held a small green towel over it in a futile effort to hide her shame from the world. She dropped her head again and stared despondently at the cement.

Nurse Ann Giles, a veteran at picking out the ones who needed pushing up the line, could see this woman was too exhausted to wait much longer. It seemed as though she had almost given up.

Ann discovered that her name was Beatrice and her 20-year old son Alphonso had patiently and faithfully kept her place in line. She took them straight through to the waiting room. Even after jumping the line, it took four hours for Beatrice to make it from the waiting room to the scheduling desk. But finally, she held an orange card with a surgery date, marking the first triumph in her lengthy struggle to rid herself of deformity.

"She was in a room in darkness all the time," recalled Alphonso. The eldest of Beatrice’s four children, he struggled to remember his mother’s face without the tumour. "I was a petty trader, selling small things like cassava and pepper. I had been a seller since my youth. But when the tumour came, I was ashamed to go among people," Beatrice explained. As she sat up in her bed on the ship’s ward and retold the story of her suffering, her hands frequently moved to her face to touch the place her tumour used to be. She came to the Mercy Ship Anastasis at the beginning of April with very little hope but said her faith in God and a determination to see her affliction gone kept her going.

"Before I heard about the ship, I gave up and was looking to God for healing because I could not find my way through anywhere else. People were telling me to go this way and that and nothing worked. I was frustrated. It’s all I can remember. My only focus was to get healed." As she spoke her fingers absentmindedly touched her cheek and a small, shy smile spread across her lips.

When Beatrice came to the ship she was severely malnourished. With the tumour taking up much of her mouth, she was unable to push much food into her throat and it impeded her ability to chew. She weighed only 88lb and her haemoglobin levels were dangerously low, making her severely anaemic. Although the growth in Beatrice’s mouth was not malignant, it still threatened her life.

News that a tumour is benign spells relief for anxious patients in the developed world where such things are noticed small and taken care of in a timely fashion. For many West African people suffering with a benign growth like Beatrice’s, the tumour sentences the sufferer to a slow, painful death. In Liberia, a nation recently emerged from civil war, there is one doctor to every 50,000 people. For the vast majority of Liberians barely scraping past the poverty line, extras like basic healthcare are out of reach.

"Beatrice was very frail. She was on the cliff’s edge when she came to us. Maybe she had about three more months. It is difficult to say how she would have died. It could have been chronic malnutrition with final collapse, but she was also close to slow suffocation," explained Dr. Gary Parker, one of the surgeons who removed Beatrice’s 6lb tumour.

Beatrice underwent surgery onboard the Mercy Ship on April 1 Dr. Parker and Dr. Tony Giles took four hours to remove the tumour along with the upper jaw bone that had been destroyed by the tumour’s inexorable growth. He replaced the bone with muscle from the side of her skull in order to re-establish the functional barrier between the eye socket, nose,sinuses and mouth; otherwise a large hole would have remained between these features.

Dr. Parker plans to do a further surgery for Beatrice when the ship returns to Liberia later in the year.

"We will take some of the hip bone and use it to shape the left cheek where the tumour was removed. At the moment, the skin that has been stretched tight by the tumour is loose. Much of it will shrink back into place but what remains, we will cut back."

Beatrice took a little longer than most to recover because of the severity of her condition. In spite of this, the change in her emotional condition was as dramatic as her physical transformation. The nurses on the ship’s ward noticed the development as Beatrice passed her two-week stay onboard.

"Beatrice is healing well and I am so blessed to see this lady with such a sweet spirit on the ward dance and praise God for His healing and restoration in her life," said Lisa Scharf, a nurse.

The day Beatrice left the ship to return home, rain poured from the sky, soaking everything in minutes. Yet nothing could dampen her spirits as she waited inside for Alphonso to come and collect her. She fidgeted excitedly, taking pictures with her new Mercy Ships friends who had come to the ship’s gangway to see her off. Soaked to the skin and huddled under a coat borrowed from the ship’s security guard, Alphonso shook hands with the waiting crew members. "I see my mother now and I tell God ’thank you’. Now she will walk outside. Taxis will no longer pass her by." He gently took his mother’s arm, held an umbrella over her and led her down the gangway to a waiting car. The light from the headlights flashed against the rain as the car drove away from the ship, carrying Beatrice away to a new life.

Reading between the lines

2005-05-23T05:11:00.000-04:00

The following is a recent article written about the adult literacy class I work with in Liberia:

As the rain pours down outside, Grace B. Solo carefully writes the letter ‘s’ between painted white lines on a blackboard. The students in her adult literacy class practice drawing the shape in the air, raising their voices above loud rumbles of thunder to speak out the letter’s sound.

Grace is a participant in the Mercy Ships Adult Basic Education (ABE) program that provides training for those teaching adults to read and write. UNESCO estimates that only 38.3% Liberians aged over 15 are literate, a fact Grace believes contributed significantly to the country’s recent conflict.

“It is because of illiteracy that people continue to plunge into war,” she explains. “When you are not educated, your way of thinking is very narrow. An uneducated person is very easily fooled into doing the wrong thing.”

The ABE program supports nine local literacy facilitators selected and sent by three church organizations in Monrovia. During eleven days of workshops, ABE staff provides training in participatory learning methods using a unique curriculum combining ActionAid’s REFLECT method with a phonetic literary approach. ABE staff then model the new teaching techniques in three classes and support the literacy facilitators as they begin to put their training into practice.

“The churches have a vision to train literacy facilitators and send them upcountry to rural areas in Liberia,” said Veronique Biville, ABE coordinator. “They plan to translate the church liturgy and song books into local languages and teach people to read and write at the same time. The program is open to the whole community and we have found that people in Liberia are very eager to learn.”

In advancing the skills of adult literacy teachers, ABE not only helps to improve opportunities for individuals, but also contributes to a growing stability in Liberia. The country is preparing for elections in October, which will bring a new president to power at a crucial time in the nation’s recovery from years of war.

“There are a lot of presidential candidates – everybody wants to be president,” says Grace. “But if I’m not educated, I won’t know whether this man is the right man to be a president. But if I am educated, I will be able to know whether he is educated and knows politics to be able to rule me. So what Mercy Ships is doing is very important.”

To view more photos on the training of literacy teachers and of the literacy class click here.

Perspective

2005-05-14T04:40:00.000-04:00

Living here in Liberia I have many opportunities to think about my perspective on situations and try to see them in the light of other people's. Yesterday I was frustrated because of different situations, all seem so minor now I am embarrassed to even put them in writing. Even though I live in a developing world with poverty and sickness all around it is easy for me to get wrapped up in "me" and my problems. Gaining perspective is one way to get out of the selfishness I choose to live in at times.

For the past couple of weeks I have been teaching an adult literacy class and am really enjoying it. There are 17 participants in the class and it has been a pleasure teaching them. It's a great joy to see adults of all ages get excited when they can begin to read words and learn how to write letters of the alphabet. This past week I've received a bag of mangoes, a bag of oranges and dried plantains from different students who struggle to live on a $1 a day. This is their equivalent of giving the teacher an apple. They have a great desire to learn and wouldn't think of missing one of the classes that meets 3 days a week.

And then there's Neta.

I noticed Neta the first day and realized immediately that there was something different about this young lady (my guess she is around 16 years old). Neta was unresponsive whenever anyone talked with her. She struggled to write the letter 'i' and still does after 2 weeks of classes. She doesn't seem to want to be in the class. I knew mentally that there was something wrong with her and tried to give her attention without holding back the rest of the class.

Yesterday I heard Neta's story from one of the other teachers. She was like any other 8 year old trying to do her best during a bloody civil war. Then the rebels captured her father and made her watch as they cut off his head. From that point on she has been like she is today. There is no opportunity for counseling or therapy, she is coping the way her mind knows how.

I gave Neta a ride home yesterday and she lives very simply with her Mom. There is no electricity or running water anywhere in the capital city of Monrovia. Like others, they struggle to find their next meal.

I went back to my home and walked onto the air-conditioned ship, took a shower with soap and clean water, went into the dining room and got a warm meal already prepared for me, took it back to my cabin and cried.

Perspective...

"I have seen violence done to the helpless, and I have heard the groans of the poor. Now I will rise up to rescue them, as they have longed for me to do."
Psa 12:5

Transformation

2005-05-13T10:48:00.000-04:00

God is in the business of transforming lives. Here on the Mercy Ship we are privileged to see this on a daily basis.

Scott is the photographer on board and has posted a physical picture of transformation here.

Be sure to go over each picture with your mouse to see the before and after.

Transformation Africa & Global Day of Prayer

2005-05-11T03:01:00.000-04:00

Five years ago a successful businessman in South Africa, Graham Power, had a vision from God that Africa will become the "Hope of the world". It began with 45,00 Christians praying in a stadium in Cape Town, South Africa. Four years later in 2004 the Day of Prayer for Africa was held.

"More than 273 cities/towns in South Africa and all 56 countries in Africa (more than 1 200 towns/cities) committed themselves to the process of transforming Africa and participated in a Day of Prayer for Africa, raising a canopy of Prayer across the continent involving more than 22 million people.This was a day that changed the face of Africa forever."

You can read the full history on the Transformation Africa website.

This year on May 15, 2005 Africa invites the world to join hands in a Global Day of Prayer.

"The plan is to start praying as the sun comes up in the East (New Zealand) in different time slots until the Sun sets in the West (USA). This planning will involve leaders from all 6 continents and will include more than 240 countries."

Go here for more information on how you can get involved.

words from a wanderer in Sudan

2005-05-06T03:08:00.000-04:00

One of the the many things I enjoy about living in this community on board the Anastasis is the people I meet. They are from all over the world and some have become very close friends.

One of those friends is Stephanie. I met Stephanie over 5 years ago and have appreciated this wonderful woman as a friend and co-worker. This past October Stephanie left Mercy Ships, after serving for 5 years, because she felt God was calling her to something else. She wasn't sure where God was leading her but she was obedient. Steph eventually returned to the States waiting to hear from God.

Well, He spoke clearly and she has just arrived in Sudan. She accepted a job for 6 months with World Relief as a communications officer. Stephanie has also started a blog called words from a wanderer if you'd like to read more about what she is doing in Sudan. Knowing Stephanie this is sure to be a good read over the next 6 months.

So, You Want to be a Missionary?

2005-05-03T18:10:00.000-04:00

Often when I talk to people about Mercy Ships they are surprised to hear about all the jobs they can do and be considered a "missionary". Many people have in their minds that a missionary is only someone who preaches the gospel in the market or plants a church in a remote village or does medical work for the poor and the needy.

This ship has medical people doing surgeries, people teaching adult literacy, people building clinics and schools but what's unusual about Mercy Ships is the support staff we have on board. We are a floating community with over 350 people from more than 35 different nations. To support the people in the "Programs Department" we have missionaries on board who cook, some who clean public areas on the ship, others work in our bank, we have an IT department, a school for the children of the families on board, even a hairdresser for all of us that need haircuts.

A large need we have on this 52-year old ship is that of technical crew. We have a deck department, plumbers, welders, and carpenters who work on the upkeep of the ship. This is a constant job and every year the ship leaves W. Africa for a time and goes to shipyard to have work done. This year we are taking an extended time to get some much needed projects completed. These projects are imperative for us to continue to do the work we do.

Here's where we need your help. In mid-June we will leave Liberia and sail to South Africa. We need extra technical crew once we arrive to South Africa and so far we have had very few applications. We will be in shipyard from July 4th to September 2nd in East London, South Africa. We are looking for skilled welders, pipe fitters, plumbers, electricians, electronic technicians, carpenters, painters, refrigeration technicians, mechanics and skilled tradesman. Volunteer terms can range from 2 to 8 weeks. Volunteers are asked to raise their own airfare but room and board will be provided.

So, if you have one or more of the above skills and want to serve with us you may contact me through a comment or email me at: vesselofmercy2005@yahoo.com and I will put you in touch with the right people. Maybe I'll see you this Summer!

I've Been Tagged

2005-04-30T17:40:00.000-04:00

No, this has nothing to do with the UN takeover of the port here in Liberia (see previous post). And don't worry Mom and Dad, I don't need to seek immediate medical attention.

It seems there hasa been a little game going around the blogsphere the past few days and now I've been included. Thanks Michele, I always hated being left out. :)

Here's how it works: I pick 5 occupations from the list below and complete the statement. I then "tag" 3 other people to post their answers on their blog. If I tag you and you don't want to do it, that's fine. Let me know and I will tag someone else.

Here's the list to choose from:

If I could be a scientist...If I could be a farmer...If I could be a musician...If I could be a doctor...If I could be a painter...If I could be a gardener...If I could be a missionary...If I could be a chef...If I could be an architect...If I could be a linguist...If I could be a psychologist...If I could be a librarian...If I could be an athlete...If I could be a lawyer...If I could be an inn-keeper...If I could be a professor...If I could be a writer...If I could be a llama-rider...If I could be a bonnie pirate...If I could be an astronaut...If I could be a world famous blogger...If I could be a justice on any one court in the world...If I could be married to any current famous political figure...

My Answers:

1. If I could be an athlete... I would ride in the Tour de France and win it of course.

2. If I could be a lawyer... I would work for an organization like The International Justice Mission that fights for the rights of those that can't speak for themselves specifically in the area of injustice of the poor and oppressed.

3. If I could be a justice on any one court in the world... it would be the War Crimes Court in Sierra Leone to make sure the people responsible for the horrific wars in Sierra Leone and Liberia would be brought to justice.

4. If I could be a musician... I would learn to play the piano and play it well. I could sit and listen to the piano for hours.

5. If I could be a linguist... It would make my job right now easier! I would study languages and help people learn to read and write in their own language. I would also help the people at the Jesus Film translate the film into the most remote languages.

So there you have it. Whose idea was this anyway?

The last part. I need to tag 3 people to post their answers on their own blog. I don't know many people who blog that read mine consistently that haven't been tagged already. I think I will pick two now and if you read my blog and would like to be the third just go for it! My two: Sandra and Keith.

Poverty, Corruption and Hope

2005-04-29T02:33:00.000-04:00

My home life on the Mercy Ship Anastasis, docked in the port of Monrovia, was disrupted from its usual routine this past weekend. It seems some corrupt people at the port have not been playing nicely and the big guys with the guns had to take care of it. If you want a little more detail than that the BBC explains the UN takeover of the port better in this story.

How was I affected? Shore leave was cancelled from Saturday afternoon until Monday morning. Not only could we not go off the ship but we were asked to not go on the decks of the ship during this time. The white tents of a Nepalese UN camp appreared right outside our gate within days and the security around the ship and port is tighter. Other than that it has been business is usual. The UN takeover was relatively peaceful.

How has the nation of Liberia been affected? Hopefully the goods that come into this large port will go to the people they were intended for and not the few corrupt people of power. Hopefully it will be a warning sign to those who are acting injustly that it will not be tolerated. Hopefully this is just one time of many were injustice and corruption will be exposed.

Corruption is a huge problem in this country and is a contributing factor to the extreme poverty. But this is not the only factor. To read more about global poverty issues check out from the salmon's series on poverty.

The latest post The End of Poverty points out that it all comes back to us believing in the hope and proclaiming God's kingdom .

I Once Was Blind But....

2005-04-26T09:44:00.000-04:00

Meet two-year-old twins Assan and Alusan.

Due to being born with catatracts in both eyes about all they could do was detect light and dark but were unable to see. Their family fled neighboring Sierra Leone in 1999 and have been living in an IDP camp since then. They, like many people in Liberia, are unable to afford this simple surgery as they struggle to live on less than a $1 a day.

After hearing about the Mercy Ship docked in the port, Ellen, the boys' mother came to the ship on April 15th. Even though she didn't have an appointment, the staff examined the twins and scheduled them both for a free surgery the following week.

This past Thursday Assan and Alusan had their cataracts removed and on Friday the patches were removed. The improvement was apparent to all around. Their eyes were no longer sunken and unresponsive. Now both boys were able to follow the movements of hands and balloons. It will take a few weeks for their vision system to develop and soon they will be able to see their mother's smile.

Father, bless Assan and Alusan and may they come to know the One who causes the blind to see.

Are You a Doctor?

2005-04-25T09:49:00.000-04:00

That's a question I am asked often whenever I go into town. It's understandable since I work on a hospital ship. Truth be told, I've been known to feel faint at the sight of blood.

Lately I've been asked the medical question not just by Liberians but by people who are reading my blog. It occurred to me that I haven't written much about what my job is here in Liberia with Mercy Ships.

This past September I moved from the Chaplaincy (member care) department and began working with the Adult Basic Education team, teaching adult literacy. Our international team is currently made up of 3 women; from France, Lithuania, and myself from the US.

My first experience was in Benin where our team trained 18 local facilitators to teach literacy classes. I oversaw 6 classes, in a village called Hevie, that began in December and are still continuing even though the ship has left. A friend wrote about one of the classes in Hevie here.

Now in Liberia where statistics say the literacy rate is around 40%(the local people laugh at that statistic and say it is much lower) our team has been training 11 facilitators for the past 3 weeks. We are set to open up 3 classes this week. I will be overseeing and teaching for the next month and slowly handing the class over to the facilitators who will keep it going after we leave.

Here in Liberia we are focusing on equipping the churches. So, we are working closely with United Methodist Churches(UMC) and The Association of Evangelicals in Liberia(AEL). It has been a privilege to work alongside the churches in a country that desparately needs the healing work of Jesus Christ.

I would ask for prayer as we start up the classes. The location I will be working in is called Congo Town at the Victory Outreach Church. Directly across the street from the church is a large building that once was the Minstry of Health building before the war. This site was sacked and burned during the war and now has become a squatter camp for people who have no where else to go because their homes were destroyed by the rebels. I am praying for an opportunity to visit this site and invite any interested to come to the classes.

Stay tuned for more...

Dancing Again

2005-04-19T10:55:00.001-04:00

A couple of months ago I wrote about the VVF surgeries performed on board while the ship was in Benin. You can read that story here and here.

Now we're in Liberia and there's a whole new group of women receiving surgery during our 3 month period here, 32 in all. These surgeries not only help the women with their physical problem but for many it restores dignity to their life.

"On Tuesday morning, the ward onboard the Anastasis resounded with drumbeat, song, and dance. Five Liberian women in bright new dresses with matching headscarves, surrounded by nurses and newly-made friends from the ship’s crew, prepared to return home. They are among the 32 women receiving treatment onboard the Mercy Ship for vesicovaginal fistulas (VVF), a condition of incontinence caused by obstructed childbirth. "

"Mercy Ships is also partnering with a Liberian surgeon to help women living with VVF in northern Liberia. Dr. Willacor, surgeon at Ganta United Methodist Hospital near the border with Guinea, repairs fistulas but performs relatively few operations because many women cannot afford $150 US to pay for surgery. At the recent Mercy Ships screening at Ganta Hospital in March, HealthCare Services Administrator Norma Forrest promised to find funding for 15 women to receive surgery – a total of $2250 US."

"Each week, the crew of the Anastasis makes a donation to a specific cause and, on April 7, Forrest nominated the Ganta VVF surgeries. Crewmembers – despite being unpaid volunteers supported by the donations of others – gave $5,461."

"Visiting surgeons from around the world are completing six weeks of VVF surgery onboard the Mercy Ship during the present three-month field service phase. More surgeries will be scheduled when the ship returns to Liberia in November for seven months. "

You can read the whole story from our communications department here.

Perspective

2005-04-15T06:38:00.000-04:00

It's 11:30 on a Friday night and as I lay in my bed in my cabin on the ship, I see lightning outside. I can hear the rain pounding on my porthole. There's something comforting about being under the covers safe and dry and hearing the rain outside, I always sleep well to the sound of rainfall.

Then I remember where I am and my thoughts quickly turn to the people that live just a few hundred yards from the port, my home in Liberia. The people that live in shacks with roofs that leak or will fall from the weight of the water. The people that live by the river and the water comes rushing into their homes and they lose the little they have.

Lord, comfort those who are affected in a negative way from this pouring rain. May they feel safe from the lightning, may they know your protection and presence. And may they sleep well tonight.

The Story of Liberia

2005-04-14T11:38:00.000-04:00

I am presently serving in Liberia, W. Africa. Mercy Ships has committed to work here until early Summer 2006.

Liberia has a rich history and the only W. African country with such a strong connection to the United States. The flag of Liberia, pictured on the right, is a good indication.

"The present-day Republic of Liberia occupies 43,000 square miles (slightly more than Tennessee) in West Africa. It is bordered on the southwest by the Atlantic Ocean and surrounded by Guinea, Sierra Leone, and the Ivory Coast. From antiquity through the 1700s, many ethnic groups from the surrounding regions settled in the area, making Liberia one of Africa's most culturally rich and diverse countries. Settled in the early 1800s by freeborn Blacks and former slaves from America, Liberia, whose name means "land of freedom," has always struggled with its double cultural heritage: that of the settlers and of the indigenous Africans."

"In 1816, a group made up mostly of Quakers and slaveholders in Washington, D.C., formed the American Colonization Society (ACS). The Quakers opposed slavery, and the slaveholders opposed the freedom of Blacks, but they agreed on one thing: that Black Americans should be repatriated to Africa. The Quakers felt that freeborn Blacks and former slaves would face better chances for freedom in Africa than in the United States. They also saw repatriation as a way of spreading Christianity through Africa. The slaveholders' motives were less charitable: They viewed repatriation of Blacks as a way of avoiding a slave rebellion like the one that had taken place on the island of Santo Domingo, today's Haiti."

"Despite opposition from many Blacks and from white abolitonists, the repatriation program, funded by ACS member subscriptions and a number of state legislatures, moved forward. In 1822, the first 86 voluntary, Black emigrants landed on Cape Montserrado, on what was then known as the Grain Coast. They arrived with white agents of the ACS who would govern them for many years. Many others followed, settling on land sometimes purchased, sometimes obtained more forcefully, from indigenous chiefs."

"In 1824, the settlement was named Monrovia, after the American president (and ACS member) James Monroe, and the colony became the Republic of Liberia. Over the next 40 years, 19,000 African American repatriates, sometimes known as Americo-Liberians, settled in Liberia, along with some 5,000 Africans recaptured from slave ships, and a small number of West Indian immigrants."

To read the rest of the story of Liberia's history, click here.

Promise

2005-04-09T17:29:00.000-04:00

I recently posted on our medical screenings here and here .

Mercy Ships medical staff is able to help many people that don't have access to medical care. Unfortunately, we are unable to help everyone. It is heart-breaking when you have to tell that person, "I'm sorry but our doctors are unable to help in this situation". Some have spent all they have to travel to the city and I have heard more times than I care to count from those seeking help, "you were my last hope".

This past screening I was outside with the people waiting in line to see the doctors. This is where I met Promise, a young mother, and her 6 month old baby, B.K. B.K has a condition called encephalocele, protrusion of brain tissue through a congenital fissure in the skull . I have seen this condition at many screenings and I hate telling these mothers that we can't perform this type of surgery.

Promise said that we were her last hope. What do you tell a mother when you know her first child will probably die within a few months? I still don't know the answer to that, all I knew to do was sit and cry with her. Promise is a believer and knows God can heal, and we prayed for that but it doesn't take away the pain that a mother must feel.

I went to visit Promise in her home last week. She was surprised to see me and even more surprised that I was able to find her house when I just knew the area she lived in and her name. God divinely put people in my path to ask and help.

B.K looks strong but his head is getting bigger from the fluid on the skull. Promise knows that B.K doesn't have much longer to live. I plan on visiting her more often. I once heard someone speak on the "Ministry of Presence" and I feel that's what God has called me to do at this time, just be there. Your prayers for Promise, her husband, and B.K would be appreciated.

A Taste for the Unlikely

2005-04-02T09:45:00.000-05:00

A couple of weeks ago I posted on the medical screening that Mercy Ships held here in Monrovia, Liberia. The following story was written by Claire who works in our Communications department. It gives another side of the screening and reminds me how privileged I am to work with this incredible group of people.

In the early hours of a Saturday morning, Monrovia saw the mobilization of a different force. Not the rag-tag bands of flip-flopped rebel soldiers; nor the motley militias loyal to the government; not even the United Nations peacekeepers in their blue caps and white tanks. A force bringing neither war and conflict, nor peace and negotiation. A much less likely force, bringing hope and healing. The more I work with Mercy Ships, the more I see that God has a penchant for the unlikely. It's unlikely that an ageing passenger and cargo ship, staffed by volunteers of different ages and cultures, would sail to serve in the world's poorest nations. It's unlikely that thousands of people would benefit from free healthcare, free development projects, and free educational programs in three short months. And it's unlikely that at a medical screening of hundreds of war-weary, poverty-stricken people, suffering conditions no developed nation will tolerate, you'd find joy,
peace, and love.

But that's what I saw at the screening in Monrovia's JFK Health Center on Saturday, March 19. Faced with deformed lips, cloudy eyes, and bulging bumps, the crew was ready with broad smiles, kind words, and gentle hands. From Craig, reveling in his first experience of screening as he managed the front of the line, to Deirdre, painstakingly scheduling patients at her thirtieth screening in 18 years. From Lauren, earnestly drawing out patient histories, to James, affably taking patient 'before' pictures. As I walked around the screening site, dropping in on different stations at different stages, I saw the fruits of the Spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. People working for hours, helping person after person after person, giving their time and energy again and again. Jenni talking with people waiting outside, Linda singing to those waiting inside, Ed testing samples, Sam smiling at the door, Lucy drawing blood, Kristine checking eyesight, Chuck manning the exit, Henry praying with and for those we can't help. All these crewmembers and so many more, and none doing this for money, for acclaim, for anyone they actually know personally. It's all so unlikely - yet this is the force God has mobilized.

Maybe lasting peace in Liberia is unlikely; maybe permanent stability and security in West Africa is unlikely. Then again, light is unlikely in the depths of darkness. Hope is unlikely in the midst of despair. Life is unlikely in a body hanging limp on a wooden cross. Thankfully, our God has a taste for the unlikely.

a voice for those who cannot speak...

2005-03-31T03:03:00.000-05:00

I have been keeping up with all the news on Terri Shiavo. Personally, I agree with the president's statement on this one, when there is so much doubt on what she wanted in regards to living in the state she is in then we should err on the side of human life. I think it's good that there is so much press and blog posts on this issue. Christians in the US and beyond are getting involved through writing, protesting, praying, and/or demanding that the government get involved. For me, it is good to see the church take a strong stand on this issue.

But my question is what about all the people starving to death in other parts of the world? Shouldn't the Christians be protesting, praying, writing on this too? Some do but not to the degree I see for Terri. Shouldn't we demand our government get involved by changing our trade policies that literally cause people to starve to death? Is it just the people in the US that we should be a voice for or is it for the whole world?

I am deeply moved about what is happening to Terri. I am outraged at the injustice, I just wish that the passion and engagement I see (from the church) with this one person would carry over to the thousands of people that starve to death every day because of the decisions of man.

Goodwill?

2005-03-29T04:37:00.000-05:00

Over at Mission Safari there is a thought-provoking post about what happens to the old clothes we donate to charities and the effects it has on the textile industries in developing nations.

To read more about where our Goodwill and Salvation Army donations can end up click here.

Liberia: Impressions, Thoughts and IDP Camps

2005-03-24T10:10:00.000-05:00

Currently I am in Liberia. This is the first time the ship has visited this country, a country that has been at war for 14 years. Think about that. Children who are under 16 years old only have lived life in the midst of a war, they know nothing else. This was not just any war but a bloody civil war where there are no rules. It doesn't matter if you were a woman, child, or non-combatant, they killed at random.

It is too difficult for me to write about all the things going on in my head right now about this country. So I will attempt to make short posts as I go along. So much of it seems unreal until I go out into the streets and see all the bullet holes in lightposts, signs, and buildings, until I meet people and hear their stories.

The war has ended but so much more needs to be done. There is no electricity or running water in the country, even in the capital of Monrovia. Because of the war many people had to flee their homes. Some go to other countries while others go to IDP (Internally Displaced Persons) camps. I have read estimates from 500,000 to 800,000 people were displaced due to the war. The aerial photo is of some IDP camps in Liberia.

Our photographer on the ship, Scott, has captured images of one place that people have made into a home to temporarily live out their daily lives. Check it out:
Monrovia's former luxury hotel Intercontinental. Now home to 1,500 displaced persons

Please pray for the efforts taking place now to assist people to get back to their homes or start new ones. You can read about what took place this week here and about other efforts on ReliefWeb.

Medical Screening Update

2005-03-22T08:37:00.000-05:00

The medical screening on Saturday went very well. It was peaceful and we were able to see everyone waiting. Over 250 people were scheduled for surgery during our 3 month stay here in Liberia. Thank you all for your prayers.

The surgeries began yesterday. Young Abraham (in the photo) was the first surgery(cleft lip) and is now recovering in the hospital ward on board the Anastasis. To view more photos of the screening you can click here.

Medical Screening

2005-03-18T17:39:00.000-05:00

This past Tuesday a medical team of 15 was flown up-country via a United Nations helicopter to Ganta. Ganta is near the Guinea border in Liberia. Upon arriving to Ganta hospital 200 people were in line to be screened by our team to assess if they are canidates for a surgery on board the Anastasis in Monrovia.

57 patients from Ganta were scheduled for surgery during our stay here in Liberia.

The bigger screening will take place tomorrow here in Monrovia. We hope to schedule the remaining slots for surgeries.

Please pray for all that will be involved in the screening tomorrow. That it will be peaceful and that God's plan for each person there will prevail. This is a country that has just been through a 14 year war, may God's peace and hope be evident even to the ones that we will not be able to help physically.

School in Royesville, Liberia

2005-03-18T06:34:00.000-05:00

A Mercy Ships team will help rehabilitate Royesville School, a long one-storey building in need of a new roof and refurbishment before teachers and students can return. It has been out of commission since the rebels sacked it during the war, now in anticipation of the building project, 200 children are registered to return to school.

"Friday's" Story

2005-03-11T11:11:00.000-05:00

The ship and Anastasis crew have arrived to Liberia safely. More to come.....

In the mean time I'd like to share the story of "Friday". One of several types of surgery that is done on the Anastasis is Maxillo-Facial. During our 4 months in Benin, 369 Max-fax surgeries were completed. "Friday" is just one story of a life changed.

Scott Harrison is our ship's photographer and he writes about "Friday" here. A word of warning to the squeamish, this contains some graphic medical photos. If you do watch be sure to click on morph at the end.

Other Statistics from our 4 months in Benin:

Total OR Procedures: 691
Eye Procedures 332
Maxillo-Facial/Plastics 369
Ob-Gyn/VVF 31

Dental:
2,575 Total Patients
5,381 Total Procedures

HIV/Aids Awareness:
Individual Lessons:558
Training of Trainers:192

Nurse Mentorship Training: 44

Literacy Training:
Classes Taught: 153
Teachers Trained: 28

Jesus Film Viewings: 82

Community Development:
Fresh Water Wells: 3
Latrines constructed: 14
Basic Hygiene Participants: 59

Building Projects(done alongside local people):
Maternity Clinic
Residential Building

This is what man can report, only God knows how many lives were changed by proclaiming and demonstrating His love. What a privilege it is to be able to be involved in what God is doing.

Looking Back, Sailing Ahead

2005-03-09T17:18:00.000-05:00

This past Monday we left the country of Benin. The departure was delayed a week due to technical problems but we are underway now heading towards Liberia. Late into the first night of sailing, somwhere off the coast of Togo, a fire alarm went off on the ship. As the group I' m with mustered outside it was very quiet and pitch black. We do drills at least once a month and every time we set sail, but this was the real thing. There was a fire in the engine room, which can be a little scary when you are out in the middle of the ocean. Praise God it was contained quickly and we were able to return to our cabins around midnight. And as I was writing this another alarm went off. There was another fire in the engine room but it was quickly contained. We would appreciate your prayers for the technical crew on board and for protection.

As the ship departed from the dock in Benin, I had bittersweet emotions. This is the third time I have been to Benin with the Anastasis so I had made close friends that I said good-bye to, but I also felt it was time to move on. I know God is calling us to the war-torn country of Liberia. I will give an update soon on the final statistics from our 4 months in Benin.

Right now the ship is off the Ivory Coast. We stopped this afternoon and anchored as we waited for a ship to come and refuel(photo) and are back underway. Our expected arrival into Monrovia, Liberia is Friday morning.

The Least of These

2005-03-06T16:30:00.000-05:00

This post is in response to this week's Vox Apologia "The Least of These" over on Amy's Humble Musings Check it out if you get a chance it should spark some interesting thoughts.

Matt. 25:31-46; The Sheep and the Goats

This passage begins with all the nations gathered before the Son of Man in His glory(v.32). All the nations are there, that includes those in far off lands. It's easy to see the needs right in front of us and not go beyond what is in our scope. I believe Jesus understands our tendency to do so but probably longs for us to reach out beyond our carnal limitations, prejudices, and convenient stereotypes(e.g. "the poor are that way because they don't know Christ"). Statements like this give us an easy out to actually respond to the need.

He commands His followers throughout scripture to come to the aid of the "least of these". In the passage of Matt. 25, I find it interesting what the criteria are to separate the sheep and the goats. It was how they responded to "the least of these". Not how many souls they have won to Christ. I am not saying telling people about our Savior isn't important. In fact, I believe it does no good to just feed someone without explaining where this love comes from and the hope that is available to them. What I am saying is the scriptures are full of what our responsibility is to the poor and needy and I don't see it given as much emphasis in the church as say, evangelism. It's another program that you can get involved in if it is a program offered at all. But scripture shows us that it should be a part of who we are as followers of Christ, it is not optional or just the missionaries job.

Why is there not an emphasis on it? One reason I can think of is the cost. Not a monetary cost. A cost of time, convenience, preference. We are called to be actively involved in the least of these lives. Not just sending money, though that has its place, but to "look after the sick, invite the stranger in, visit the prisoner". This costs more than just money.

Some have interpreted Matt. 25:36-44 as a faith + works passage. I read some of the arguments and these have valid points but in my opinion that's not what this is about. Jesus made it clear that if we are his followers we are to respond to nakedness with clothes, imprisonment with visitation, hunger with food, thirst with drink. It doesn't matter if it's what gets us saved or not. In fact, if that is our motivation then we should question it or pray for a heart that goes beyond a motivation of conditional love(1Cor13:3). "I will do this for you because it will get me saved." This is not the kind of love that Jesus modeled for us. In the passage of Matt 25, the sheep didn't even realize that they did something special. They had to ask, "When did we see you hungry and feed you?" They were humble in their service. Their motivation obviously wasn't to make sure they were saved.

Are we willing to count the cost and do what we are commanded to do? Let's not just talk about it but take action. "If anyone has material possessions and sees his brother in need but has no pity on him, how can the love of God be in him? Dear children, let us not love with words or tongue but with actions and in truth."(1John 3:17-18). This verse tells us how to tell if the love God is in someone. Take action in truth. I believe the founder of World Vision said the following: "For hope to be credible in the future, it needs to be tangible in the present." The world is literally dying to hear about and see a tangible love and hope to "the least of these".

Off to the Races

2005-03-05T10:40:00.000-05:00

Good news! We have received the parts for the generator and the engineers have been working hard. We're scheduled to sail this Monday, the 7th, at 1500 to arrive in Liberia on Friday.

Praise God! Thank you for your prayers.

In the mean time the rest of us seek to amuse ourselves while waiting. Our recent event was yesterday when we decided to have races with our life boats. I'm not sure what our neighboring ships and fishing boats thought about it but I believe we weren't the only people entertained yesterday.

After 2 races the boat I was racing in won (or tied for first place). I am just a little sore today!

P.S. I'm in the black shirt in the photo to the right.

Photo Finish

2005-03-05T10:37:00.001-05:00

photo finish
Originally uploaded by vothj.

2005-03-05T10:36:00.000-05:00

Baaaaack seat driver

2005-03-02T05:51:00.000-05:00

One of the many reasons why I love Africa!

2005-03-01T07:52:00.000-05:00

Anastasis

Delays

2005-02-28T14:58:00.000-05:00

"Waiting may seem in the way of us getting to where we want to go. But many times, it is through waiting that the sight of a truer destination appears." -Duke Rohe

If you haven't figured it out yet, I live on a ship. This former cruise ship is anything but that now. The Anastasis (Greek for resurrection) was built over 50 years ago. I have lived here almost 6 of those years and it has become my home. But my home has been showing its age for some time now. I am constantly amazed how God uses this broken down vessel (sounds like a good sermon illustration in there). From busted pipes to broken down engines, this ship always seems to have something leaking or not working.

The latest is one of the generators. This affects all 350 of us (no air conditioning). The generator has to be repaired before sailing, the part has to come from Asia and the biggest obstacle is yet to come, getting it through customs in French West Africa.

Change of plans.

We did not set sail Saturday as what was stated in our original itinerary. We were sailing to Ghana to have a break for a week before sailing to Liberia to begin our field service in the war-torn country.

We still are taking a break but staying here in Benin. Personally, I am happy to stay here longer but I do know if it is much longer it will affect many people in Liberia.

We have been delayed more times than I can remember and many times I find myself asking the Lord, "What does this mean?" "Are you trying to tell us something?". And other times I realize that maybe it doesn't have to have some deep, spiritual meaning except to know that the Lord is faithful in all circumstances.

So, I figure my responsibility in all of this is to wake up each morning and ask the Lord to help me to be faithful today with what He has given me and what His Spirit shows me, wherever I am.

I would appreciate your prayers that the parts would arrive in a timely manner and for the engineers who will have to work through the night for a week once the parts arrive.

More to come......

What Can You Do??

2005-02-22T16:10:00.000-05:00

Many times I look around me and think about all the things that I can't do to help people, it can be overwhelming. I try to re-focus and look at what I can do with God's help. And I realize that is the question I should be asking myself, "what can I do?". Am I being faithful with what God has given me?

I just received an email from a couple who are working in Punta Gorda, Florida helping the people who are still suffering from the active hurricane season last year. They have taken a camper down there for a few weeks to work with the North American Mission Board. What I find extraordinary is these two people. He just turned 69 today, his wife is in her late 60's too. She is an amputee(leg), who gets around in a wheelchair or on crutches, and has suffered from severe phantom pains for over 20 years until recently when she had a pain pump installed. The pain was so severe in the last few years it had kept her bed ridden at times.
"This is not like a toothache or a headache - it is real, excruciating, undescrible pain that she describes as feeling like being stabbed by hot knives or stung by millions of bees. "

He is helping rebuild a house for an elderly lady, she is doing counseling. They both are working in a food bank 2 days a week. I see them as being faithful with what God has given them and not focusing on what they can not do(because of their age and physical limitations) but on what they CAN do.

Mom and Dad, I'm proud of you!

Galatians 6:10 So then, while we have the opportunity, let us do good to all people, and especially those who are of the household of the faith.(empahsis mine)

A Time To Dance....

2005-02-16T16:30:00.000-05:00

There have been a variety of surgeries performed on board this floating hospital ship but none of them has caught my attention quite like the VVF, fistula repair, surgeries that began about 3 ½ years ago.

"According to United Nations statistics, an estimated two million women in Africa and South Asia suffer from vaginal fistulas. A fistula occurs during long or obstructed childbirth, when the baby's head presses against the bones of the pelvis for hours, sometimes days. The pressure destroys part of the birth canal tissue, leaving a hole through which urine or feces continuously leak. A woman might live with the unpleasant smell and unrelieved shame of this ostracizing condition for decades. In many cases, the baby dies during the difficult childbirth".

In January a team from the ship went 10 hours inland to screen potential women for this surgery. Several were selected and they boarded, along with some male relatives to help care for them, a small bus to make the trip to Cotonou for the surgery on board the ship. Because they were from various villages in the North they were from different tribes and spoke a variety of languages. Even though this had the potential to be a frightening experience, coming to the city and boarding a ship with a peculiar culture of its own, they seemed to adjust quickly.

One of these women was as young as 14 while another had lived with a fistula for 20 years. But they all had one thing in common, they had lived with shame. Many had husbands leave them because of the smell while others were unable to sell in the market for the same reason.

This is one of the things I love about doing what I do. Being a part of helping to restore dignity to these women and showing the love of Jesus. I am not able to frequent the hospital ward on the ship often but the few weeks of the year that we do VVF surgeries that is where I can be found in my free time. There's something about these women that captures my heart. Their recovery after the surgery is usually about 2 weeks so I am able to spend some great time with them. Whether it's painting their nails, watching the Jesus Film in their language, doing a puzzle, or explaining what the love of Jesus means to them, it is a precious time to me.

When it is time to go home we have a tradition on the ship (borrowed from a fistula hospital in Ethiopia). Each women is given a new dress, as most of their clothes are soiled from the leaking, and have a celebration in the ward with dancing, singing and many smiles. We celebrate their recovery and praise the One who made it possible. Over 30 women had a VVF surgery on board in January and are going home with not only a new dress but a new life.

Ecclesiastes 3:1-4
There is a time for everything,
and a season for every activity under heaven:
a time to be born and a time to die, .
a time to plant and a time to uproot,
a time to kill and a time to heal,
a time to tear down and a time to build,
a time to weep and a time to laugh,
a time to mourn and a time to dance.....

2005-02-16T16:09:00.000-05:00

From Shame to Dancing

2005-02-16T16:08:00.000-05:00

Fatmatou in her new dress

Saying Goodbye...

2005-02-14T04:27:00.000-05:00

I live on a ship with over 350 people. In this close community I have built life long, intimate friendships and through them have come to experience the true meaning of words like accountability, intimacy, confronting in love and just having a good time.

People are constantly coming and going on the ship. Some serve for as little as 2 weeks while others come for years. Weekly a list is read of new arrivals and departures for the week. In a way I've gotten used to it after almost 6 years.

But from time to time someone leaves and there is a noticeable void in my heart. I am thankful for this because it helps to realize that I haven't hardened my heart to relationships, but it is very difficult. Last night I drove two very dear friends to the airport and said goodbye. They need to return to the States for medical reasons. I am a better person for having known them and am thankful for the many hours of talking, crying, and laughing with them.

When I became a missionary I realized that I would have to say goodbye to friends and family at home and that was very difficult but I was prepared for that. This is not what I expected but the friendships I have made are not what I expected either, they have been beyond my expectations and for that I am thankful, but that makes saying goodbye all the more difficult.

Patrik and Diana, I will miss you!!!

Tozer

2005-02-14T03:41:00.000-05:00

Wanted to share this quote I came across the other day about motivation:

"It is not what a man does that determines whether his work is sacred or secular. It is why he does it." - A W Tozer

The One Motivation

2005-02-11T16:35:00.000-05:00

"What's your motivation?"

I get this question asked of me from time to time but I find it is a question I ask myself on a consistent, almost daily basis. Why do I question my motives so often? Am I over-analyzing? Probably. But I think one reason is because I don't always naturally do the things I do with the right motivation.

As a missionary, I can easily get into a rut of just "doing my job". I tell people about Christ because that is why I was sent here and that's what I'm supposed to do and I need to live up to what I think are other people's expectations of me.

Or my motivation can be to "win" people to Christ. Some of you might be thinking, "that sounds like the right motivation." I have to disagree.

I first want to say that I believe that I am here to let people know who Jesus Christ is. I don't want to just do humanitarian acts without ever mentioning the reason why I do what I do. I want what I do to have eternal value. But my main purpose is to show the love of God to a hurting world.

When I thought about writing on this subject I asked myself what was God's motivation. The famous scripture of John 3:16 came to mind. For (because) God so loved the world, He gave... There it is, God's motivation was love.

A few years ago I was challenged with the following statement;

"Do I love people so I can tell them about the Gospel? Or do I tell them about the Gospel because I love them?"

You see, the first statement is relationship with a catch. I will love you so that..... The second statement I see as the way of Jesus; unconditional love.

So my question is, "where does all of our techniques of evangelism fit in?" "Our expectations on short-term mission trips to see a lot of people saved?" "Our reporting of statistics?" There is nothing wrong with these things as long as our primary motivation is sincere love. The word of God even gives us statistics (Acts 2:41).

Many say that our acts of love, mercy, and justice should be a channel to lead people to Christ. This too can be love with a catch. I don't see it as two different acts or as a "channel". It is what God commanded us to do.

St Francis of Assisi is credited with saying, "Preach the Gospel at all times, if necessary use words." I don't totally agree with this because I believe words are important too but I like the point he is making. Our lives need to show Christ before our words do. How do we show Christ? We imitate him. And throughout the Gospels His acts of love stand out.

I will be the first to say that more times than I would care to admit my motivation has not been love in showing acts of mercy, justice and love. And I know God can and has used me in spite of that. But in my desire to become more like Jesus I will continue to ask myself, "what's my motivation?"

Parakou

2005-02-08T09:37:00.000-05:00

I arrived back to the ship last night after a adventurous 7 hour drive from the interior of Benin.The Pastor's conference took place Friday night and all day Saturday. Over 200 pastors and church leaders attended to hear from the speakers. We were also able to do a Bible distribution.

On Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, teams did 4 different workshops in various churches. The topics were training on: teaching Aids awareness from a Biblical perspective, creative teaching for children's Sunday school teachers, teaching Adult literacy, and Micro-finance.My colleague and I trained 10 facilitators from 7 different churches to teach Adult Literacy. In the future I will write in more detail about what I do. Please pray that they will start classes soon and the participants will be able to learn and be open to the Bible discussions that take place in every class.

The Jesus Film was to be shown Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night. The first two nights obstacles were faced and it was not shown. On Sunday night it was shown in an open field with pastors there to preach and do any follow up. Many responded and God was glorified. I am thankful for the opportunity that God has given me to preach His Good News. Thank you for your prayers.

New Literacy Facilitators in Parakou

Prayer Requests

2005-02-02T13:28:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow morning (Thursday) I am going with a team of 15 to Parakou about a 7 hour drive north of the ship's location. We are hosting a Pastor's conference for all the churches in the area. I am going to teach a workshop on facilitating adult literacy classes.

Please pray:

For the Pastors and church leaders attending the conference that they will be refreshed and challenged.
For our travel to and from Parakou, for safety and a good time with the team.
For the different workshops, that we will be able to teach the material well in the limited time we have.
For the showing of the Jesus Film on Friday and Saturday night in various villages that people will respond as we have local pastors there to follow up.

We will return late Monday night. Thanks for your prayers!