November 2013: Consider it all Joy
November 2013 Bulletin Insert Format [PDF]
Consider it all joy, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing. James 1:2-4
So many individuals to be confirmed and baptized — increased numbers of children and a growing need for church school teachers –not enough communion trays and cups — issues with the tiling in the new church building –the need to hire a contractor to build a toilet.… Although these may be seen as problems by some, the congregation at Ramotswa UCC of Southern Africa (UCCSA) takes it as a wonderful challenge given by God. The congregation has been slowly but steadily growing over the last three years – from an average of 25 people in attendance to around 100 on Sunday mornings. The children and youth programs quadrupled in size. The church hosted regional events for the UCCSA Soldiers of Christ, the youth, as well as the Women’s Fellowship. It also continues to be involved in several outreach programs. The church has chosen not to leave “well enough alone” and forgo any kind of static worldview of what it means to be a congregation. At a recent church council meeting – there was discussion about how to better serve the youth. There followed a discussion on how to further strengthen the daughter church at Mogonye. The church’s members have shown by their actions that complacency is unworthy of a church’s calling. For both Jayanthi and me, the Ramotswa UCCSA has been a tremendous blessing in our lives – a constant source of encouragement and support. And our friends in US churches have sent such support – prayers, letters, and even financial assistance – which enabled the Ramotswa UCCSA congregation to build a new building.
Lord, each day is a brand new gift – unspoiled, unblotted. Help me to be inwardly open to what you have for me today. Amen
James & Jayanthi Wilson are missionaries with the Kgolagano Theological College in Gaborone, Botswana. Jim serves as an lecturer at Kgolagano Theological College. Jayanthi is seconded to the Botswana Synod and assigned to Kgolagano Theological College. She serves as librarian at Kgolagano College. Upon completion of home assignment in 2013 and board approval, they will work with the United Congregational Church in Southern Africa at Kuruman in South Africa.