The United Church of Christ of Mozambique Welcomes the Frees!

This year began with a wonderful visit of the Global Ministries Africa Executive, Rev. Sandra Gourdet, to Beira. During her stay, Rev. Gourdet visited the parish of Massange, where she was received with a parade, as well as other local churches. One of the main items discussed during her visit was the coming of mission personnel from Global Ministries to serve with the United Church of Christ in Mozambique.

This year began with a wonderful visit of the Global Ministries Africa Executive, Rev. Sandra Gourdet, to Beira.  During her stay, Rev. Gourdet visited the parish of Massange, where she was received with a parade, as well as other local churches.  One of the main items discussed during her visit was the coming of mission personnel from Global Ministries to serve with the United Church of Christ in Mozambique.  For a number of years, the United Church of Christ has worked with Global Ministries to secure mission personnel and this prayer request was answered when, on March 12, 2014, Erik and Kim Free landed in Beira.  Erik and Kim will be working with the Gogoi mission as well as assist with the Machemeje agriculture project in the district of Buzi. Due to upcoming elections, the Frees will live in Beira, making visits to Gogoi and Machemeje.  In addition, in Beira they will help with the education initiatives of the UCCM. During this initial time in Mozambique, the Frees will devote themselves to the study of Portuguese until the end of June. We welcome the Frees and are thankful to God for the gift of their presence among us.

We also would like to give thanks for the ministry of Rev. Gourdet.  She has informed us that she will be retiring in December of this year. We are grateful to the relationship we have with her and with Global Ministries and although we are sad to see her leave, we wish her blessings as she prepares to enter this new phase of life.