Greetings from Malawi Africa

Pastor Philip, first I would like to apologize for the delay in writing to you. We have been kept very busy and on the move ever since we arrived. Although we have access to the Internet on the ELCM campus, we are on the road soon after the first rooster crows. Today we are preparing for a four day journey to the south where we plan to visit many sites and meet some of the people on the ground doing God's work. Some of the sites include two nights at the ELCM Cottage, a visit at the ELCM Schools at Monkey Bay, traveling to Zomba, spending a night at a Masongola hotel, a worship service in Lake Chilwa, a day at Camp Mvuu and many more special events.

On Monday and Tuesday (2 days ago) we met with the Bishop here in our guest house and at his office. This was my first time meeting with him and I was very impressed with his knowledge and passion for the people of Malawi. We were able to give him the medicines, toiletries and many other things we brought with us. His wife, Maria, also accepted the girl's panties we brought with us. At this point, we have been able to meet most of the people on the ELCM staff and we have a much better understanding of the functions of each department. I am taking many pictures and plenty of notes and will give a full report upon our arrival back in the United States.

We also spent a full day with the ELDS and met with their staff. They prepared a power point presentation (I have a copy) that helped us understand the functions of the Non Governmental Organizations (NGOs). The next day we went out into the field to visit some of the villages and see first hand the work they are doing. We learned about the sewing project for the women who are infected with HIV/AIDS. This project allows them to earn money for themselves and for their village. We visited a pig and poultry farm that was being used for income generation. I got hands on experience with a foot pump that is
being used for irrigation and more.

We were most impressed with the Community Based Child Care Center (CBCC). This is a village of women who care for orphan children and more importantly take care of the mothers who are infected with HIV/AIDS. This village was special in many ways, but what stood out the most was the appreciation of the support coming from the ELDS and the leadership of the women in charge. They had goats and most notably were taught how to earn money by beekeeping. We were welcomed with song and dance at every stop. These are beautiful people and we fully understand why you are so passionate about the mission you created here.

Suzyo, the young man you met in North Carolina who planted the seed in your heart to come here five years ago, sends his warm regards. We spent a lot of time with him during dinner and he has given us a clear insight of Malawian culture while sharing with us stories about the ELCM. Chikosa (driver) says hello. Christopher, or host, sends hugs. Hudson sends a big hug and kiss to you. In two weeks he will return to Tanzania to finish his seminary and be ordained as pastor. He has spent the last year in Madisi for his internship. I have many pictures and videos to share with you and anyone who will want to see them.

Yesterday we were invited to Madisi for the grand opening of a feeding center that was built by the people there with guidance from the women's group of the ELCM. We were able to take many pictures and I’m attaching a few of the kitchen and dinning hall you were directly responsible for building. The roof has been paid for and will be attached very soon in preparation for the October 1st school year. The Madisi campus was very clean, crisp and ready to make a difference. We were able to personally inspect the boy's and girl's dormitory, the medical clinic, the teacher's quarters, the feeding center, the school house and most inspiring, the Church. Great stuff!

Well it's time to say goodbye for now. Please share this letter with Zion and with anyone who is interested in knowing about Malawi and what we are doing. Tell everyone at Zion that we love them and that we are truly doing God's work here. Remind them that we are all brother and sisters in Christ. Let them know that God has a plan for the poor people around the world and Americans, especially Christians have the responsibility to act on God's plan. Tell everyone that the people here fill us with the love of Christ and teach us how to become good stewards of humanity. I can speak for all five of us and say that we have taken our spirituality to another level.

Your brothers and sisters in Christ,

Luis, Jack, Kamala, Rita and Zelma.

Luis Garcia  (August 21st, 2007)