October 6, 2008

Dear Special Friends,

We are back in the States for a Sabbatical. Our mission board felt that we needed to be here for a time to get away from the stress of the ministry in Kenya. We have been there for twelve years now, and have recently had some health problems related to the stress. During our recent furlough, we visited many churches and traveled constantly, so had no time to rest before returning to Kenya. Also, the mission board, as well as our pastor from our home church, felt that we needed some time for personal healing. So, we are here for a time of rest, and to refocus, before we return to the land and people that we love in Kenya. This was a very hard decision for us, as we love the ministry there, and our people that God has given to us. Roger and Julie Tate will be carrying on with the Lord's work there while we are here, and they will do a great job, we are sure. Please continue to pray for us during this time.

Pam went to see Nathan and Carrie and our newest granddaughter, McKenna, before they flew back to Kenya in September. She really enjoyed her time there with them.

Although we miss our people in Kenya terribly, I have gotten involved in a ministry with our home church, Calvary Baptist in Hurricane, WV. Our church has been helping the poor in our area for several years now by giving them food. No one has had the opportunity to visit in their homes, since those involved work full time. So, I am volunteering to visit those who have requested a visit, and am looking forward to starting this ministry for awhile while we are here.

We are hearing good reports from Kenya that the churches are doing well. Also, some of our church members have started to visit in the homes of those affected by AIDS, so we are praying that the Lord will richly bless this ministry. Pam had taught classes on home-based care for those suffering with AIDS for three months before we left, so we are excited to see how that God will bless this worthwhile ministry.

This is a short letter this month, as we have just recently returned to the U.S. Please do keep in touch with us, and pray for us during this time.

We desire to return to Kenya stronger in the Lord, and want to continue to develop a deeper relationship with Him. Thanks so much for your love, friendship, and prayers for us. May our Lord richly bless each of you. Let us all be diligent in working for our Lord as we see the troubles in our economy, and many other problems that are on the horizon as the Lord's coming for His people draws so much closer. We appreciate you.

Many Blessings,

Mike and Pam
Psalms 29:11