We had a great conference in Katesh. Most of the attending pastors were new to our ministry, since this location moved a bit beyond the edge of the Dareda valley and expanded the territory a bit. You can see the eagerness in their eyes as they received the teaching and came to understand the concepts of Covenant with God.
We put them to work a little bit, taking notes and filling out some information on their own sheets. While it was a challenge to some (not common in this culture), they worked hard at it. We were even asked to pause a few times, to allow pastors to “catch up,” not necessarily because they were so slow, but because they were writing down everything and didn’t want to miss even one concept! They were very thankful that we were able to provide them with such a thorough material packet, which they intended to take home and teach to their congregations. This was very much an equipping experience, and this conference really hit the mark! We are so thankful to the Holy Spirit for "leading them into all truth" and for helping to drive these truths home for all of us--teachers and "students" alike.
Susan really enjoyed working with our friend Polycarp. He stepped in to assist Bayo in the translating work and was very well received by this group of pastors. They loved the stories that Susan wove for them. As she shared insights from the Lord, at times Polycarp would exclaim “AHH!” (momentarily forgetting that he was supposed to be translating, and getting enveloped in the gripping teachings). He would pause slightly, quickly writing down his own notes before making the translations of what she had just said. He, too, was hanging on every word and eager to soak it all in. What wonderful gifts God gave us in Bayo and Polycarp. They each have influence among many pastors, and their passion for God and for the people of God are such an encouragement to all of us.