Over the years we have experienced many times with limited rain and conserving water. The last true El Nino we experienced was in 1997 – when Benjamin was 1 year old. We remember it clearly because we were washing his diapers and any non-white clothes in river water. (No, Jan did not take the clothes to the river. 🙂 There was a tap in the washroom that was for river water.) This past trip July – September was definitely another El Nino. The fresh water supply (especially for students) became so low that the college was considering sending them home. BUT after weeks of absolutely no rain the college spent a prayer day praying for rain. God sent it!
The pictures above with what looks like smoke IS SMOKE. People in villages light fires thinking that the smoke will bring rain. Plus, it makes it easier to clear the fields for planting crops.
One more weather note… Without cloud cover at night the temperature really dropped. There were several mornings that the temperature INSIDE was in the 50’s. (We don’t have central air or heat.:)) Our students from the coasts especially find this difficult. Here you see students trying to keep warm in the faculty building during a break time.
As usual, Patrick really enjoyed teaching his classes both of which were about the End Times – one on the book of Revelation and one on Eschatology (pictured above). Both classes are challenging to the students. In eschatology students learn the different views of the Millenium and have to support their church’s view from Scripture. It makes for interesting discussion and is an eye opener for many of the students as they learn of views of different denominations. (If you want to know the RIGHT answer just email Patrick and he will let you know! Just kidding! Is anybody reading this????)
Monthly Village Outreach
John Kingal Wamp was one of Patrick’s student’s 20 years ago. He is now a lecturer at the University of Goroka. He and Patrick took a walk around the campus and John reminisced about walking with Patrick 20 years before when Patrick was his faculty mentor. It was so encouraging to see John walking with the Lord and making an impact for God’s Kingdom in Goroka.
Students waiting for work parade to start and kids playing “Jacks” with small stones. 🙂
A generous gift from an Australian supporter – two new vans! Simon, who is in charge of vehicles, is especially grateful for the new wheels. 🙂
Patrick is grateful for other CLTC missionary families whom he has meals and fellowship with.
