The Village of Jeremiah 29:11, on it's way!

In the last 2 months, amazing progress has been made as we continue building the children's village! As you can see above, the boys home is near completion, the girls home - walls up, the police hut - should be finished soon as we welcome to police to the land for security (provided by the local government), and finially - the storage building for materials, walls up! It's exciting to see Isai at work, with about 30 + men depending on the day. They work, they learn new skills, developing good morals and character, they come together with one mind and one purpose. Isai, has learned so many things building in a 3rd world country, most importantly how to work with people or rather different approaches - for different people, retraining the mind at times to think beyond culture and what the've known but to build in sustainable ways using the same materials they have available. Patience, love and understanding - with a forgiving yet firm heart is vital at the start of each day. I say this in the most litteral sence :o) The fruit of the Holy Spirit, much needed.

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We just celebrated Eric's birthday (pictured above) last week and brought him to the land to see the progress. Eric turned 15 and imagine what he asked us for his birthday... one of my broken phones that Malaki dropped into a water container to play with. A phone that will never in it's life work again, but would be fun to "play phone" with or be seen with. The difference in 15 year olds all around the world; I tell you! He has been weaving simple circled wall pieces and we have been selling them, he sold his first two just days ago and now has started a savings for his future. Also, Isai told the kids that when they turn 15, they can work a little at the land during school breaks and summers to save up some money for their futures; Eric for one, is anticipating this opportunity! He loves to be the big brother at home... Desire who our youngest turning 2 this month loves him, and clings to him - always! We are honored to have Eric with us, and know God will use Him in a mighty way to transform the nation of Burundi in it's timing. He's a special one, and not one would disagree! Until next time... from Burundi!