Greetings, ministry partners. I need to let you know how very thankful I am that my dissertation is completed and doctoral studies are concluded. My work schedule is packed full, and if I was also trying to do doctoral work, something would have to give.

Andrew and I traveled to beautiful San Diego this past weekend for a missions conference and many meetings at Riverview Church. The time was packed with church-related responsibilities and connections with wonderful ministry partners. What a joy to encourage the saints in their partnership not only with us but with about 25 other missionaries. The presentation I gave to the church on Pathways Bible training was well received as we opened our Bibles and began putting some of the Pathways principles into practice. Extensive Q & A sessions at numerous times, and other activities kept us hopping.

I’m home for just a few days before leaving day after tomorrow for Lusaka, Zambia. International travel is quite challenging these days, and I’m dreading the nearly 40 hours from my door to the pastors house I’ll be staying with. I needed to take two COVID tests before departing, a day apart, because I need to show proof of neg covid 72 hours before departure from US and again before transfer in Nairobi. Since the flight to Nairobi takes 24 hours, one covid test couldn’t cover both requirements. Upon arrival at about 3AM in Lusaka, I’ll get three hours sleep (hopefully) before jumping into training all day and the following three days. Another covid test along the way, then onto a plane and return home. Whew!

I would appreciate your prayers for negative results from all tests, for endurance through the challenging schedule, for a productive time with the pastors in Lusaka, and for God’s protection over the family while I’m away. Thank you. In His service, Eric.