Hello All...
As for many of you, ministry in Egypt revolved around Easter in the month of April. Our primary ministry in Egypt is in service to the Cairo Christian Fellowship (CCF); the members of which are all still strongly
connected to their Orthodox Coptic or Catholic roots. This strong connection makes for some unique Easter and Christmas traditions. One of the Christmas traditions was interrupted last December due to some political events and strange weather that led to a long period of rain. So, the annual Christmas bazaar was postponed and offered as an Easter bazaar. The bazaar allows different CCF members to sell handicrafts or homemade food items, as well as inviting various organizations to sell items at booths in the garden; each booth contributes a donation, and CCF members make additional donations, to the various benevolent projects supported by the CCF. A catered lunch adds to the fellowship of the day. This year’s Easter bazaar was such a success, raising more than $1000 for benevolence, that the CCF are considering making this a new tradition.
As for many of you, ministry in Egypt revolved around Easter in the month of April. Our primary ministry in Egypt is in service to the Cairo Christian Fellowship (CCF); the members of which are all still strongly
connected to their Orthodox Coptic or Catholic roots. This strong connection makes for some unique Easter and Christmas traditions. One of the Christmas traditions was interrupted last December due to some political events and strange weather that led to a long period of rain. So, the annual Christmas bazaar was postponed and offered as an Easter bazaar. The bazaar allows different CCF members to sell handicrafts or homemade food items, as well as inviting various organizations to sell items at booths in the garden; each booth contributes a donation, and CCF members make additional donations, to the various benevolent projects supported by the CCF. A catered lunch adds to the fellowship of the day. This year’s Easter bazaar was such a success, raising more than $1000 for benevolence, that the CCF are considering making this a new tradition.
As we turn our attention to May, we begin to focus on several property issues. We are attempting to see several renovation projects completed; in fact, we are awaiting a new competing estimate this morning. We also have a month to make preparations and arrangements for our two-and-a-half month absence while we return to the States for our first, brief home assignment. Of course, these preparations also extend into our ministry responsibilities here; and, our kids have a busy 6 weeks left in the school year.
In the midst of all of that, we hope that Ken will make our first visit to Upper (southern) Egypt congregations. Though we have been able to meet with and encourage the pastors from this region of Egypt, difficult political and social conflicts have not allowed a trip there until now. Things are still contentious in the area, but they are actually experiencing the most stable conditions since our arrival a couple years ago. A few of these church buildings need renovation; two were damaged due to riotous events last summer, one very badly. Our hope is to encourage the pastors and believers there, as well as become equipped with a better understanding of the needs and challenges the Church faces in this region so that we can discover ways for better service and support.
So, it's been a busy month, with a busier month ahead, and a very busy home assignment after that! We are thankful for each of you; your continued interest, prayers, support, emails and even your Facebook "likes" all encourage us.
The Kihms
The Kihms
