FIELD ADDRESS: FORWARDING AGENTS:

P.O. Box 32184 Mr. and Mrs. Skip Allen

Lusaka, Zambia p.o. Box 611
Africa King, NC 27021
AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST" IN CENTRAL AFRICA. (II Corinthians 5:20)
Volume 16 February, 1982 Number 1
IF THE RAINS DON'T COME
"If the rains don't come this week there will
be much hunger in Zambia." In late
December this statement was repeated by
almost everyone we met. The force of its
meaning weighed heavily upon us as we
realized that one week's delay could make the
difference between food and hunger for
thousands of people. Almost two months late,
the rains finally began in early January.
There was laughter and smiles and dancing in
the villages because now there would be food --
Hhe gardens would grow, the maize (corn)
would cover the fields of farms both small and
large - the people of Zambia could breathe
easily again. The government of Zambia is
still concerned that due to the lateness of the
rains production may be down and serious
shortages may still occur later in 1982. There
are areas, as there are every year, where there
won't be enough rain or there will be too much
and the crops won't make it. In those areas of
Zambia there will be starvation in 1982. In
areas of Africa north of Zambia the droughts
that have taken the lives of thousands
continue and the extent of their devastation
covers a wider area every year, sweeping
farther and farther south. Already Zambia
has been affected as refugees from some of
these areas have moved into the northwestern
province, causing a strain on Zambia's food
supplies.
In spite of efforts by various world health
and food agencies the number of starving
people in the world grows year by year. As we
sit down to our heavily laden tables of deli
cious foods may be mindful of those who have
nothing. It might be well if we would make a
conscious effort to change our wasteful life
styles so some of what we have could be
shared with the hungry. It might also prepare
us for the time when our own pantries are not
so full. We as Christians should lead the way
in this concern.
Remember that
by doing so you 3^' ^
are also show- ] iygBr/'
ing love for
Christ. He said,
you the
whatever
you did for one
of the least of
these brothers of
mine, you did for
me." (Matthew
25:31-46) Village children
Because we know that it is difficult for you,
80 many miles away, to keep in mind the
extent and nature of our work, let us give you
an overview. We are also aware that when we
talk about churches it is difficult for you to
identify with them and their situations so we
take this opportunity to acquaint you with the
churches with which we are working. You
may want to keep this Messenger so you can
refer back to it as churches are mentioned in
future issues. The churches we talk about are
not the only churches in our area. There are
others with which Ron and Marti Baumann
are doing an excellent work. We, and all the
churches, work together in joint endeavors
such as conferences, leadership clinics and
ladies conferences. Also, our work is not the
only work being done in these churches.
Debbie Brown has helped tremendously with
Sunday Schools and youth classes in these
congregations.
OUR WORK -- The work we do can be
divided into three major areas all of which we
enjoy and consider the involvement therewith
a privilege. Of primary concern is (1) the
work among the churches. We normally
like to be involved in the planting of at least
one new church all the time. However, this
has not been possible so far this term because
of the added responsibility of the rural
Dean and David assembling lesson books.
OUR WORK >
churches. With established churches leader
ship training is high on the priority list. In the
three churches in the immediate Lusaka area
we have weekly leadership classes and ladies
classes. In the 13 rural churches Dean spends
two days each week of the dry season (April-
October) having three or four classes a day.
During this time one or two nights each week
is spent in the village. In order to have these
classes we must have lesson materials which
involves finding or writing materials as well
as having them translated and duplicaf^'
them. Every Lord's Day finds us in a different
assembly of Christians where Dean usually
preaches. Counseling church leaders and
advising them in dealing with problems is
done whenever the need arises. We assist in
the planning and conducting of conferences,
revivals, and special day services. From time
to time we are called upon to participate in
conferences, revivals, camps, etc. in other
areas. This may even involve traveling to a
neighboring country as was the case in 1981.
(2) Being a member of Zambia Chris
tian Mission also involves certain respon
sibilities. As a trustee of the mission Dean is
involved with most property transactions and
other legal matters having to do with the
mission. Being in Lusaka, the hub of all legal
activity in Zambia, we are often asked to
handle business for other missionaries who
live in outlying areas and who cannot always
come in to personally deal with work permits,
tax clearances, import permits, building
etc. We also serve as purchasing agent
their behalf when called upon to do so, since
some supplies are difficult to get in the rural
areas. When new missionaries come and are
locating in our area we do what is possible to
assist them in getting settled into their new
work. As it is with all missionaries, our home
is always open to other missionaries who are
in Lusaka on business or are passing through.
Judy does all of our bookkeeping and assists
some of the other missionaries with theirs
upon request. She also handles the major
portion of our correspondence. We attend
quarterly Z.C.M. meetings and work together
with other missionaries in the development
of programs that assist the overall
VT A GLANCE
evangelistic efforts in Zambia.
(3) Other involvements include working
with the Bible Society of Zambia, The
Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia,
Woodlands Fellowship (made up of
Americans from several mission groups) and
the American Women's Club (a service club of
which Judy is a member and presently the
treasurer).
/ /
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Judy with Simon Erik Burlington, newest addition to ZC.M.
MEET THE CHURCHES - Matero
Church of Christ, located in a new housing
development in one of Lusaka's oldest town
ships, was started in 1967 and met in homes
and school buildings the first 10 years of its
existence. During that time, due to various
reasons, the congregation faced many
difficulties and more than once was close to
ceasing to exist. However, a few faithful
Christians kept it alive. In 1978 they were
finally granted a building plot and Charles
Delaney led them in their building program.
Since that time Matero has continued to grow
and be a strong witness in Lusaka. The
leadership of the church is strong and they
now have 82 active members with attendance
averaging above 100. We have been working
with this church since August 1980.
Chawama Church of Christ, located on
the south side of Lusaka, was started in 1974
and died in 1975. When we moved to Lusaka
in 1976 we met with one remaining family and
revived the church. For the first year and a
half the church met in a home and a
community center. In 1978 we helped them
secure a plot and construct a church building.
This church had a series of leadership
problems in its early stages but during the
past year has been able to overcome this
difficulty and significant growth has been
attained. They now have 67 active members
with attendance running 80-90. These
Christians have exhibited remarkable faith in
the midst of some problems with thievery and
vandalism at their building. Their witness
continues to growin a township that began as
a "shanty compound" and was later upgraded
to one of the main townships of Lusaka.
Mungwi Church of Christ, located 12
miles west of Lusaka on the mission farm
where we lived from 1976 to 1978, was started
by us in 1977 among some of our workers.
Dean with sweet corn picked New Year's Day.
Their church building is an old house which
we renovated and made into a church
building. Growth in this congregation had
been slowdue to the lowdensity of population
in the area. However, the church has
maintained a strong witness and has 32
active members with attendance averaging
55. Their leadership has been strengthened
with the addition of several new men in the
past year.
Mumbwa District Kapyanga Area
has 13 churches located between 40 and 60
miles west of Lusaka. I'll not list all of these
churches separately due to limited space. The
oldest among them was started by Max Ward
Randall in 1962 and the newest was started in
September 1981. Whereas the three churches
mentioned above use the Nyanja language,
the 13 rural churches use Tonga. The
churches are scattered over a radius of 60
miles and vary in size from 13 to 73 members.
Charles Delaney and I began working with
these churches on a limited basis in 1978 and
then in 1981 I concentrated more effort to
assisting them. This area desperately needs
someone who could move there and spend full
time among these churches and start new
ones in vast untouched areas.
We ask you to continue to pray for laborers.
Also please pray for us and all these churches
with whom we labor, that God may greatly
extend His kingdom through His people.
Chawama men visiting after leadership training class.
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David ready for school.
tambia Magganq
FIELD ADDRESS;
P.O. Box 32184
Lusaka, Zambia
Africa
FORWARDING AGENTS:
Mr. and Mrs. Skip Allen
P.O. Box 611
King,NC 27021
-AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST" IN CENTRAL AFRICA. (II Corinthians 5:20)
Volume 16 July, 1982 Number 2
A TRIP TO THE BUSH
It is Tuesday morning and no time to waste.
Immediately following breakfast the truck
must be made ready for the trip. First I install
the plywood and mattress which will be my
bed and then under that I put two sleeping
bags (it's going to get very cold tonight), a
suitcase with a change of clothes, three boxes
with Bibles, lesson materials and my personal
lesson books and records. Don't forget the tool
box in case I have trouble. In the cab goes a
few cokes, a tupperware box ofbread buns and
a thermos of water, and I'm all ready to go.
NO TIME TO WASTE
A last minute check to make sure the oil and
water are okay in the truck and I'mon my way
at 8:15. Before leaving town I stop at a service
station to fill up with diesel fuel. Twenty miles
out of town I turn off of the tar road onto a
gravel road that is very rough and corrugated
due to heavy truck traffic from a sulfur mine
in the area near my destination. After twenty
miles of bumping along on this road I leave it
for a bush path. It's 5 miles of dodging holes,
tree stumps, cows and goats. That 5 miles
takes about 45 minutes and I finally arrive at
the Sharaulumba Church 10 minutes before
class which is to begin at 10:00. A group of
men and women are gathered and greet me
with enthusiasm. After all the greetings we
enter and the class begins with prayer. After
the roll is taken we have a test of four
questions over the material to be covered that
day. Then we spend one and a half to two
hours discussing two chapters in the book of
Mark. All the discussion has to be interpreted
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Class in front of church building
from English to Tonga sinceI don't speakthat
language. Both men and women (not to
mention all the kids) are in the class and the
discussion is lively with many questions.
(The classes were at first intended for the men
but the women felt cheated and wanted to
come so now all the classes are co-ed.) At 11:45
the class ends with prayer. After a few
minutes visiting I leave for the next class at
Shicumpalubanje. It's only 3 miles away, but
because we have to back-track to cross a river,
and because the road (path) is so bad it takes
me one hour to get there. On the way lunch is
served - a couple buns and a hot coke taste
good and give strength for the rest of the day.
When I arrive five minutes before class is to
begin at 1:00 no one is present.
WHERE IS EVERYONE?
Wonder where everyone is? I just as well
make use of the time while waiting so I get out
my correspondence and answer a letter. In a
few minutes two or three arrive and inform me
that there is a funeral in the villge so some of
the class won't be present. We begin about 30
minutes late and go over the same materials
as in the first class. After class there are four
people waiting outside whom I've never seen
before. I know immediately what they want -
a lift (ride) to a village somewhere en route to
my next class. After getting them and their
luggage, which includes everything from
their suitcases to a bag of maize and two
chickens, loaded we are offforChikaloma and
the last class of today. One hour and ten
minutes later we arrive, having dropped our
passengers along the way.
People are already gathered and are singing
hymns. When I enter they jokinglyinform me
that I am late. After greetings, the class
begins. There are about 30 people present, the
largest one of the day. It is a good class and
though tired, it is exhilarating to see their
eagerness to leam the Word of God. About
half way through the class the old (78) village
head-man walks in.
THE HEADMAN ATTENDS
The village headmain isn't a Christian. He
sits and listens attentively and even asks a
couple of questions. When the class is over it's
5:45 and almost dark. It's difficult to
distinguish who is who as their black faces
mingle with the darkness. The men say they
have an urgent matter to discuss so after
everyone else has gone the leaders inform me
that the government counselor wants to see
me in regards to their church registration. We
all pile in the truck and drive about two miles
to his house where we are told to sit under a
tree while he finishes a meeting with someone
else. When he arrives he invites us into his
house and wants to know about the church. It
is an opportunity to witness for Christ and
when he is satisfied that this "white man" is
not in his area to stir up trouble he wishes us
well and we leave.
Back at the center of the village at
Headman Chikaloma's hut we park the truck
and join several others around the fire. It is
now cold and the fire feels good and the
whirling smoke keeps the mosquitoes away.
In a few minutes a pan of warm water is set
beside me so I can wash my hands. Then a
huge galvanized bath tub is placed upside
down nearby. On it is placed a tray of food
covered by a beautifully hand-embroidered
cloth. Wonder what's for supper? After a
prayer of thanks the food is uncovered and we
eat a delicious meal ofnshima and chicken. In
spite of the small kerosene lamp by the food
Class in session.
it's too dark to see what we are eating, whichis
probably best. When we finish eating the old
headman amuses everyone with his stories
and joking. He becomes serious and begins
asking questions about Jesus Christ. It's an
opportunity again to witness to him and
several other non-Christians who have
gathered around the fire. At about 8:30 one by
one people begin to leave the fire to go to their
huts for rest. I go to the truck, unroll the
sleeping bags, one on top of the other, and
change into insulated pajamas. Bur-r-r is it
cold!! I crawl into the bottom sleeping bag,
say my prayers ofthanks to God for His mercy
through the day, and drift into sleep.
Five-thirty Wednesday morning, and it's
hard to get out of that warmsleeping bag. But
in a few minutes a large pan of hot water will
be beside the truck for me to "bath" and shave
801 jump out to face a new day. After washing
Class under the trees.
and shaving 1 join the others around last
night's fire which has been rebuilt. Hot tea
and porridge are served for breakfast and I'm
off for another day of classes. The big
difference today is that the road between
churches is much better, though bumpy and
dusty. Howevet, the churches are farther
apart so it still takes about one hour between
them.
MEETING UNDER THE
MANGO TREES
Nine o'clock I am at Pumongoma and we
meet outside under the trees as this church
doesn't have a building. Today's class doesn't
go very well because the interpreter doesn't
show up and the school boy who tries to help
speaks English about like I speak Tonga!!
Man is this frustrating! Following class a
child is brought to me with a terrible sore on
his foot. I get the first-aid kit and clean it, put
on some disinfectant salve and a bandage.
Then I'm told that several in the village are
suffering from malaria so I give them some
aspirin to help ease the pain.
At 12:00 I'm at Mulela, one of the older
churches. It's a good class with much
discussion. When class is over there's a
meeting with the leaders to discuss a problem
they are having with one of the men.
Christians greeting each other after church.
Scriptures pertaining to the situation are
read. They want me to make a decision to
discipline the man. I point again to the
Scriptures and advise them to make the
decision and enforce it. After prayer I'm on
the road again, already late for the class at
Shakumbila which is to begin at 3:00. I
haven't had lunch yet so I eat some buns and
have a hot coke on the way.
At Shakumbila people are waiting and we
begin the class immediately. The oldest class
member is 98 and because he has been
preaching for many years I feel like he should
be teaching me. It's a good class but not so
well attended today. I don't know where
everyone is.
A COUNSELING SESSION
After class I find they have set up a
counseling session for a couple who want to
marry. She's a member of the church but
already pregnant. He's an unbeliever but
interested. Can they be married? After about
45 minutes with them and another
appointment made I am ready to head home.
It's 83 miles but I'm only 15 miles from the tar
road so maybe it won't be too bad. At 7:30 I
pull into the driveway. Exhausted and
covered with a layer of dust, all I want is a nice
hot shower and to sit down to the delicious
meal Judy has waiting for me.
Next Tuesday morningI'll leave at the same
time, but headed for a different area and six
more churches. And Tuesday after next I'll be
back with these for their next class.
These churches need more help than I can
possibly give them with this schedule of
seeing them for two hours every other week.
Do you love people? Can you teach a Bible
class? Could you be used of God to help these
churches and establish many more in a vast
un-evangelized area? Pray with us for God to
send a laborer to this corner of His Vineyard.
David's first sermon children's night at Woodlands
Fellowship.
I
Dean and Jim In Mongu where Jim lives
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FIELD ADDRESS: FORWARDING AGENTS:
P.O. Box 32184
Lusaka, Zambia
Africa
Mr. and Mis. Skip Allen
P.O. Box 611
King,NC 27021
-AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST" IN CENTRAL AFRICA. (II Corinthians 5:20)
Volume 16 December 1982 Number 3
SEASON'S GREETINGS
FROM
Dean & Judy Jim. Cyndee & David
Beneath a crushing loadof troubles, almost fearfullya tense world
waits - Half expecting world destruction; half resigned to an
uncertain fate. But hoping that in the midst of man's misery, a
solution for peace will come. Never recognizing man's greatest
hope, the Prince of Peace, God's Son.
We find joy in being in Zambia andsharingGod'sgreat gift of love.
And daily for you who encourage us, we thank our Fatherabove.
May our efforts be united to tell people of every nation and race:
"Theword became fleshand dwelt amongus full of truth andfull
of grace."
ENGLISH SPEAKING CHURCH TO BEGIN
For several years we have recognized the
need for reaching a large segment ofthe city's
population which at present we are not
effectively reaching. Because of the many
different languages (72) in Zambia, when
independence was obtained English was
adopted as the national language. All offical
business is done in English. Highly trained
and educated Zambian people have left their
home areas and moved to the cities where they
fill almost every government and business
post. Because they are no longer in their
own language area, English becomes their
primary language and they no longer feel
comfortable in a vernacular-speaking church
(especially if the language spoken is not their
own).
We have prayed about this situation for a
long time. The pressure of the work with the
vernacular-speaking churches has prevented
us doing anything about it. We have now
reached the point where we do not feel we can
push the need aside any longer. We have been
gradually withdrawing from these churches
who are maturing and nowbetter able to be on
their own. At the same time, we have been
laying some groundwork for the beginning of
this new work.
This, of course, means that our work will
change. Tho' we will continue to lend
assistance to the vernacular churches, about
90% of our time will go into the establishment
of what will be called the Berean Church of
Christ. Our ministry will be much more like
that of a preacher in the States. Our primary
goal will be to reach the English speaking
Zambian people. However, by havin?^
English speaking services we hope to be able
to reach some of the large international
community that is present here in the Capital
City.
The Berean Church of Christ will begin
meeting in January 1983. The Garden Church
of Christ is assisting in this work by moving
their vernacular services to the afternoon and
allowing the Berean Church to use their
building. Thus there will be a double
utilization of the facilities. We are now
putting in new pews and doing some repair
work on the building in preparation for the
opening services. Please keep this work and
us on your prayer list.
Berean Church Building.
FORTY-THREE
RECEIVE CERTIFICATES
The rains have begun and classes have now
been completed in the twelve rural churches in
the Mumbwa district west of Lusaka. We were
pleased when 43 people completed all the book
work, attended the required number ofclasses
and passed their final examinations over the
book of Mark. Certificates of accomplishment
were awarded to each of the happy students.
The same question was asked at the
-^poncluding class at each of the churches.
'What are we going to study next year"? How
I wish I had a good answer for that question!
Unless someone responds to the need there
won't be a class "next year". Please continue
to "ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to
send out workers into His harvest field".
CHURCHES SELECT
ELDERS
The churches at Matero, Chawama and
Mungwi here in the Lusaka area have reached
the time in their growth which calls for the
selection of elders. Up to now various men of
the congregations have served as leaders.
Recently these congregations expressed the
desire to choose firom among them those men
who have proven themselves to be capable
^^ervants and possess the qualifications of
elders. As the missionary-evangelist working
with them I have assisted in this selection by
preaching a series of messages which was
concluded in each congregation with the
selection of those men whom they felt led by
God to choose.
From our knowledge of the men who were
selected we felt that God had certainly led and
we were happy with the maturity that was
evident among the churches. We feel that God
will bless them in an even greater way as they
follow His plan for church government.
Before the ordination service in each church,
all of those men selected will come together for
one or two days of intensive instruction
concerning their Biblical responsibilities.
DAVID'S CORNER
I am now 11 years old and weigh 90 pounds.
I am four feet ten inches tall.
My class went on a field trip to a cookie
factory. The people who run the factory
needed a new slogan so they held a contest for
the whole town. I won first prize in the contest
and got K25.00 (about $28.00). My name was
printed in our school paper. My slogan was
"Crunchy Goodness In Every Bite". Our trip
was very interesting and nice. All of us had
fun.
Last week Vice President Bush came to
Zambia. All the streets were lined with
American flags. At the airport they gave us
flags to wave when he got off the plane. The
soldiers shot big cannons and the band played
the American National Anthem three times.
We could not shake his hand because of
security, but he came very, very close to us. We
all waved and shouted to him.
Well that's all for now.
David
David waving hie American Flags.
X t chapter one
'lIltn'M' verse three of the
(2/ ^ book of Revelation
we read that "blessed
is he that reads and
i :| Y Y^Yt hears the
y word of this proph-
^ ^ ecy". II Timothy
2:15 tells us to study
to show ourselves approved unto God and
understanding His word. Here in Zambia this
has been a real problem for the women
because so many of them have not been to
school and cannot read. It's all very well to tell
them to check the scripture references when I
teach, or when someone preaches, but if they
can't read, most of them will never take the
time to find someone to read the scriptures to
them. It's all very well to design lessons with
workbook type questions but if they can't read
the questions or write the answers such
material is rendered useless.
In Feb. of this year, I was able to attend a
literacy course designed by a former mis
sionary which combines teaching people to
read and leading them to Christ ifthey are not
Christians. This two day seminar, which was
held in Lusaka, was to train literacy teachers.
The methods used to teach adults to read has
been proved effective all over the world. This
course consists of three primers and has
already been translated into four of the major
languages of Zambia, one of them being
Cinyanja which we use here in Lusaka. I was
excited about it at the time and decided to put
it to the test with one of my women's groups.
The largest number of non-readers is at
Mungwi so that is where I began. The women
each paid 50 ngwee (about 55 cents) for a
primer, small notebook and pencil. The course
also teaches writing and gives opportunity for
learning to write the same words you read.
They were all anxious to learn to read though
some doubted their ability to learn.
Teaching these women to read has been a
highlight of my work here in Zambia. Maybe
it's because I can see and hear the results.
We've completed the first book and the women
have a reading vocabulary of approximately
50 words using 16 letters. In the twelth lesson
of book one, Jesus is introduced and used in
each lesson after that. A sample sentence in
lesson 16 says "Yesu ndi muuni weniweni"
which translated into English means "Jesus
is the true (or real) light." This is comparing
rarg
Jesus to the sun which is the new word in that
lesson. In books 2 and 3 the lessons all include
teaching about Jesus.
Can you imagine the joy on a woman's face
when she learns to read a whole page? Or
when her husband says, "I've tried for years
to teach her to read but I failed. Now I hear her
reading". These women laughed and laughed
when they picked up a song book and read the
words they knew. For just one hour try doing
what you do at home without reading, and
then imagine
what it would be
in teaching the
remaining two Judy preparinK for class,
primers.
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CONTENTS
Faces and Places 1
A Village For Jesus 2
Don Mechem Family 3
Starting Over 4
Dean Davis Family 5
Things Are Different Now 6
Charlie Delaney Family 7
And His Gifts Were That Some Should Be
"Teachers" 8
Gary Burlington Family 9
Counting The Cost 10
Cecil Byrd Family 11
Lift Up Your Eyes .12
Kathryn Watts 13
A Message For All 14
Jim Conley Family 15
Those Who Have Never Heard!? 16
John Douglas Family 17
They Keep Smoking My Tracts! 18
Larry Niemeyer Family 19
Town Work In Kasama 20
Bob Weaver Family 21
What Can i Do? 22
Tom Fort Family 23
The Unfolding of Thy Words Gives Light 24
Lee Albaugh Family 25
Those Who Serve With Us 26
Furloughs 28
Church Growth In Zambia 29
Directory Back Cover
MISSION DIMENSIONS IN ZAMBIA presents
an overview of (he work of Zambia Christian
Mission missionaries. Each article is written out
of the life and experiences of the missionary.
The magazine is intended to acquaint the reader
with our progress in establishing indigenous chur
ches after the New Testament pattern.
Printed by Mission Services Press
Box 177
Kempton, Indiana 46049
The Zambia Christian Mission Family
FACES ANI^ FILACES
F lAMillA
Zambia has many faces, from the Indian merchant to the farmer tribes
man in the bush. Many of these faces are young as nearly 75% of the pop
ulation is under 25 years of age. The school children in their brown uniforms
running several miles to school, the school leavers wander in crowded town
ships unable to find employment, the village children climbing over each other
to feel the hairy arm of the "umusungu" (white man). These are the faces we
Some of the faces are emaciated with disease or lined with the leathery
marks of hard work under a hot sun. Young and old, each with new ways and
old existing together. Sickness and death are living realities, health and
vigor are cherished.
Seventy-two different tribal groups make up the nearly 5 million people
spread over an area about the size of Texas, the place where Livingstone
fought to end slavery and bring the gospel to a land filled with fear.
This is the place we have been called to work, these are the faces we see
every day. We are thirteen families spread out in five different provinces of
Zambia, meeting the faces around us and trying tosee intothe heart to present
the Gospel that has gripped our lives.
As you read these pages, do not hold us up as special believers or some
thing above normal. We are people, Christians with personalities of our own
and problems that sometimes trouble us. Our task is no greater than your
task of winning the neighbor next door for Christ, or being open to the cries
of those in need and acting upon it.
If the following pages speak to your heart about world evangelism, the
purpose of this booklet will be complete. We hope you will see in it the
faces and places that we see, faces that are more than images, but souls
who need Christ or brothers that are precious to us. Pray for them and for us
and examine your place in winning the world for Christ.
A VILLAGE FOR JESUS
by Don Meohem
"Coming to Christ in unity" would be a way of describing just what
happened at Pumangoma village, located about sixty five miles West of
Lusaka on the Sala Road.
The Mulela Church, about three miles away, through the bush from
Pumangoma, made the initial contact with Pumangoma village. They were
invited by the Headman to conduct preaching services. The leaders of the
Mulela church, Mr. Ngungu Mwanapika and Mr. Rice Mbavwe, contacted me
and told me of their interest, thus a date was set for the first preaching
service. The first Sunday I arrived with three men from the Mulela church
and we were enthusiastically greeted by Headman Pumangoma, his two wives,
and several other adults. Since they had known of the date, preparations
had been made for seating under a clump of mango (sweet fruit) trees beside
the Headman's house. One thing I noticed immediately was the large number
of adults. This indicated a strong interest as leadership stems from adults,
not children. In some villages I have experienced gatherings of a few women
and a large number of children and as a result the church has remained small
and weak.
As I stood under the mango trees preaching the Word I noticed two men's
eyes nearly jump out of their heads. The one shouted, "nzoka" (snake) and
began to run.. .you don't suppose they planned it that way, do you - just to
cut the preacher short? Well, it did. But once the snake disappeared and
the people gained their composure, I continued. Never have I seen such
interest in the gospel by so many village adults. At the close of the service
the Headman stated that he believed in the Lord and wished to follow Him, as
did his two wives. During successive services other adults followed in
similar decisions until nearly forty men and women were baptized. Within
a two month period, they became a "village for Jesus".
This type of unified decision has strongly shown me that there are villages
waiting to hearthe gospel and willing to follow the Lord. Although I am only
able to visit the church occasionally, I am always impressed with the fact
that the church has taken root in the "heart of the village". I believe this
kind of church planting is important because it is the most natural. They
have come to the Lord in cultural - family relationships. They are a body
in a physical sense and a body spiritually as members of the church. Chris
tians can face problems not alone or isolated from fellow villagers but together
with mutual interest and concern of the Saints.
In rural Zambia there are yet many such open doors to the gospel for which
we praise Him. MayHe give us the guidance and the grace to avail ourselves
to these blessed opportunities of seeing "villages for Jesus".
DON
MECHEM
.^1 I I Shelley, Don, Linda and Tim
es{
Don grew up in Clarion, Iowa, and is a "Timothy" of the
Church of Christ. In 1963, he graduated from Minnesota Bible
College with a Bachelor of Theology degree. He has served
as Youth Minister with the First Christian Church; Stilwell,
Oklahoma, two years before raising support to enter mission
ary work in Zambia where he has ministered the past twelve
years.
Linda is a native of Faribault, Minnesota, and a graduate
of high school in the same town. She attended one and a half
years at Minnesota Bible College. Don and Linda have two
children: Shelley, 15 years and Timothy, 10 years.
The Mechems returned to the States in May of 1978 for a
year furlough and live at Stilwell, Oklahoma. Their future
ministry is now threatened due to Don's continued throat prob
lems. They would like to stay in foreign missions if such is
medically possible.
We of Zambia Christian Mission are proud of the 12 years
of unselfish service Don and Linda have rendered to the Church
in Zambia. We ask for your prayers on their behalf as to di
rection for future service in foreign missions.
Dedication day at the Kafue Church.
Leadership Training Class
hy Dean Davis
It was Sunday morning. Our family had just finished a short worship
service, alone, in the living room of our temporary accomodations. I was
pacing the floor,frustrated and confused, saying "I can't imagine the apostle
Paul being in a city of 100, 000 people who are lost and doingnothing but pace
the floor". That was our first Sunday in Ndola in 1967, and it wasn't the
last day of frustration we had while trying to get settled and get a work
started there, but before we knew it there was more work to do than we could
handle. There were doors open to witness to individuals, leadership classes
to be conducted, church buildings to build, new areas asking for churches to
be started, problems to be dealt with, and Christian fellowship with strong
men and women whom we had seen come to Christ and grow in the faith, and
who were a source of real joy and encouragement to us. It was difficult nine
years later to move from these friends, this established situation, and the
place which had truly become our home. However, we felt the Lord was
leading us to the capital city of Lusaka with its 500,000 people and a tre
mendous need for the establishment of New Testament churches.
September 1, 1976, not long after returning from our second furlough, we
moved to Lusaka to START OVER. There were no well established churches
for us to begin with. We started working in areas where we knew no one
and many of the same frustrations we knew when we first started in Ndola
were with us again in Lusaka. But we were constantly encouraged by knowing
what would happen if we were faithful to our Lord and His calling.
Today we are again involved in personal evangelism, leadership classes,
helping construct church buildings, dealing with problems and developing
Christian friendships that will last for eternity. Along with two churches that
we have started, we are assisting in some of the churches in outlying areas
with which the Don Mechems labored before leaving Zambia. We praise God
for the ministry the Mechems had in the area surrounding Lusaka and for the
fellowship we enjoyed with them before their departure.
We are grateful for the continued fellowship of the Charles Delaney family
who work along side us, also establishing churches in Lusaka. Together we
are praying that in the near future there will be several new congregations
meeting and providing a strong witness in Lusaka.
We "started over" and we are happy that we did because, as always, God
opens the doors and goes before us to prepare for the victory. Today there
is a desperate need in Zambia for more workers. Maybe you would consider
"starting over" in a new field. We would like for you to consider Zambia as
a place God could use you to bring people to Himself.
Dean, Jud/ and David
DEAN DAVIS
FAMILY
Dean was bom at Mendon, Illinois , and became a Christian
at the Loraine Christian Church in 1953. Soon thereafter, he
entered Johnson Bible College. In 1955, Dean was married to
Judy Mitchell who became a Christian in 1951 at the First Chris
tian Church in Mt. Sterling, Illinois . Following their marriage
Judy also attended Johnson Bible College .
They have three children. Jim and Cyndee both attended
and graduated from Rift Valley Academy, a boarding school for
missionary children near Nairobi, Kenya. They are both pre
sently attending Johnson Bible College. David, bom in 1971,
is an adopted Zambian and a naturalized U.S. citizen.
After graduation from Bible College and ministries in
Kentucky, Tennessee and North Carolina, the Davises entered
Zambia in 1967. They were 9 yearsin Ndola, 6 months in
Kasama, where they opened the work in theNorthem Province,
and are presently in the capital city of Lusaka. In Lusaka,
they are involved with evangelism and church planting in the
urban areas and villages.
Sharing the confident assurance that what they hope for is wailing up
ahead. Dean preaching at Kafue Church
THINGS ARE
DIFFERENT
by Charles Delaney
Charlie working on teaching material.
All of US remember that chorus, "Things are different now, something
happened to me since I gave my heart to Jesus." The life and activity of the
church in Zambia is different compared to the States . It is true, the people
are saved through the precious blood of the Lord Jesus just like people in
America. The Christians here are striving to walk in the light so the blood
can continue to cleanse them of sin just like Christians in America. There
are many similarities, but differences are very visible. There are different
customs, languages, and trials. All these affect the church life in Zambia
and makes it different.
For example let's look at the Shichuumpalumbanji Church. During this
rainy season they are worshipping in their new church building constructed
of dried mud bricks and metal roof. This is different. The pews are made of
dried uncushioned mud bricks left over from the construction of the building.
This is different. The carpet is made of a texture that will not wear out. . . .
dirt. This is different. If the people forget to close the door, the cows
sleep in it at night. This is different. Their new building has only one door
but upon entering, the men sit on the right side and the women on the left.
One door, but separation inside. This is different. Recently while I was
preaching a big lizard fell from the rafter and landed upon my right shoulder.
This is different. And now the church at Shichuumpalumbanji is different
from all the other church buildings here because they are now privileged to
have two entrances.
The Cinyanja tribe in Zambia does not have a word for PLAN in their lan
guage. Whatever happens , happens . Good or bad. This is different. Since
coming to Zambia the Delaneys are different. We have changed, but we still
have enough of our own culture in us that we like to plan for progress. The
coming year is to be a year of Decision and Dedication for the Delaneys in
Zambia. We are laboring in the capital city of Lusaka. At present, we do
not have any church buildings within the city limits. Applications have been
submittedto the City Council fortwochurch sites . If ourPLANS go as PRAYED,
within a year we will have two new church buildings within the city limits of
Lusaka. This will make a difference in our witness to the thousands living
here.
Would you join with us in prayer to help us make this a year of Decision
and Dedication for the Delaneys in Zambia.
Robin. Betty. Charlie and Shanda Shanda and Robin Delaney
CHARLIE DELANEY FAMILY
Charlie, Betty, Shanda, and Robin Delaney of Johnson
City, Tennessee, have been with Zambia Christian Mission
since 1967. The first two terms were spent in the city of
Ndola establishing churches, helping these groups build per
manent buildings and strengthening them through weekly lead
ership training classes, and youth clubs.
The Delaneys moved to Lusaka in 1976 so the girls could
attend the International School. After completing a 4 month
Nyanja language course, they began work with the Matero,
Shichuumpalumbanji, and Shamlumba churches.
Plans for the remainder of the third term include starting
a new congregation in the Mwaziona township and building
permanent buildings for this group and the Matero congrega
tion .
Charlie with Shamlumba Church Belly and class
/ . V
.X .
"And His gifts were that some should be . . .
TEACHERS
by Gary Burlington
Ephesians 4:11, 12 lists five gifts of the ascended Christ to His Church.
Among these is the teacher. Along with apostles, prophets, evangelists,
ad pastors (the latter may be one and the same with the teacher, in
Ephesians 4:12 the two words simply emphasizing twofunctions of one man),
the teacher is to equip the saints for the ministry of building the church into
the fulness of Christ.
In Ndola we are trying to take the teacher and his ministry seriously.
This involves three things:
1. Teachers are not only Christ's gift to His Church, but they are gifted
men. Since every gift comes of the will of the Spirit it is impossible to man-
ufacture pastor/teachers . No program or method will make a teacher. God
must choose and then we can train . Our first problem is finding those whom
Christ has gifted as teachers of the Word.
2. Next we must write materials in the local language. These materials
must be simple, direct. Biblical, and teachable. Simple means free from
abstractions. Rather than systematic theology for discussing we need Bible
study for living. Direct means straight-forward to the people in their lan
guage, related to their culture. Biblical means bringing the message of God
to bear upon their culture. Teachable means that the Zambians will be able
to use these materials to effectively communicate to others.
3. The final aspect of this work is training. Even a gifted man such as
a teacher is not above or beyond instruction. There is instruction in method;
how to teach; and instruction in content; what to teach. There must be time
spent in preparation, devotion, and prayer.
Teaching the Word is essential to the growth and development of the body
of Christ into the fulness of Christ. We are praying for God's leading,
blessing, and help in this work.
Teacher Training Class
Gary and Meta
GARY BURLINGTON FAMILY
Gary was bom and raised in Galifomia. Since grade
school, he has been Interested in Missions in Africa. After
graduation from high school, he went one year to Ventura
College, then completed a two-year degree in Bible at Florida
College.
He held ministries in North Dakota, Minnesota, Montana
andTennessee. Gary began to studyat Johnson Bible College,
Knoxville, Tennessee, in 1974. There he met Dean Davis,
who encouraged him toward mission work in Zambia. He also
met his wife, Meta, then a Junior at Johnson Bible College
from Paoli, Indiana. Gary graduated in 1976. They were
married in the fall of 1976. After working a few months with
their main supporting church, Gardenside Christian Church in
Lexington, Kentucky, they set out for Zambia, arriving in Jan
uary of 1977.
In April of 1977, they entered language school in Northem
Zambia to study the Bemba language. Following their four
months of study, they went to Ndola.
Meta's kitchen at a church gathering. Tea time during class.
L;0; 1
MUNKULUNQWE
^ CHURCH OF
CHRIST
f t
"rmm
^
COUNTING
by Ceait Byrd
Munkulungwe Church
Cue often quoted phrase from the New Testament is "counting the cost."
(Luk' 14:28) In Zambia today, as in many parts of the world, there are tre
mendous costs. The cost of living seems ever to be on the rise. People
scramble in stores to buy food. Patience grows thin as long lines of people
que for bread, milk, or cooking oil. Most schools come up very short of the
high standards we may desire.
Vehicles are in great demand, but the supply is small. Petrol and lubri
cants for the vehicles are terribly expensive. Sometimes these vehicles
become deadly, unguided missiles as drunken, Inexperienced drivers take
to the wheel. Hospitals are short of specialists, drugs, and medicines.
Also, there is a big ugly monster in our world called "crime". It robs
those who are rich, and steals from the poor. Cars, homes, businesses,
foods, and all kinds of personal effects find themselves trapped in its power
ful jaws . This untrustworthy, hypocritical fiend is forever popping up all
over the world. It kills, maims, and destroys its victims just to satisfy its
devilish lusts.
Yet, as enormous as these costs are, the supreme costs in Zambia lie in
the Church. Accurate communication is essential. This requires language
learning, which in itself involves regular study, some frustration, and num
erous failures when reading, writing, or speaking the language. Under
standing the Christians, and being understood by them is a mammoth feat.
Customs and cultural traditions clash with Scripture. Personal desires and
"want tos" overrule Bible principles. Non-Christian family pressure forces
decisions which are not in keeping with the Word of God.
Disappointments come when an elder leaves the Church to return to a life
of drunkenness; or a deacon marries a second wife. A church may decide to
vork in the field to earn money for the treasury rather than attend Bible
Uudy that day. Discouragements mount when the teachers do not show up
ir Bible study. Church leaders vie for power and positions. There is a
fdiik of "senior elder", and "vice elder" practiced in some of the churches.
A church service may suddenly become a scene of disruption and confusion
as members shout their disapproval at something said, or something done.
Yet, we are here to build church buildings, to teach preachers, teachers,
and leaders, that they may in turn teach and equip the church. These things
must be done regardless of the cost. Now, the remainder of Luke 14:28
suggests that one ought to have sufficient means to finish his undertakings.
Admittedly, a tremendous need to meet the cost in Zambia is perseverance.
Where is such perseverance found? Once found, how is it maintained?
It must be remembered that Jesus Christ Is the Head of the Church. It is
His Church. He loved the Church so much that He died for her. Therefore,
His love. His endurance, His perseverance for the Church is the source where
in we find abundant means today to finish that which we have begun. He is
the foundation of the Church. We -are building on that foundation. We pray
our work in Zambia to remain--to survive its test by fire. (1 Cor. 3:11-15)
Jesus has a mighty wonderful event set for the Church. He is going to
present the Church to Himself glorious, without spot, without wrinkle, or any
such thing. He himself paid the cost to ensure this climactic event for the
Church. That cost was His life's blood which indeed flowed freely from His
heart of love for the Church. His eternal love for the church provides an un
faltering perseverance for His brethren on earth as they labor with Him for
the glory of the Church.
Surely counting the cost in Zambia means allowing Jesus to help us per
severe in all things. It means being faithful unto death. May God's will be
done in Zambia as it is in Heaven at all costs. Amen.
CECIL BYRD FAMILY
Cecil and Betty Byrd graduated from Johnson Bible College
in Knoxville, Tennessee, in May of 1972. After completing a
2 j yearministry with theWoodlawn Christian Church in Camp-
bellsville, Kentucky, they undertook linguistics studies at the
Summer Institute of Linguistics inNorman, Oklahoma, and the
International Linguistics Center in Dallas, Texas . Cecil and
Betty have been blessed with three children - Benjamin, age 6,
Miriam, age 3 , tand Kathryn, born April 16, 1978.
Since arriving in Zambia in September, 1976, the Byrd
family has been serving the churches in the Ndola area . Cecil
and Betty studied the Lamba language in 1977 and have been
active in church planting, leadership training and evangelistic
efforts in both urban and village areas.
mm
Betty, Cecil, Miriam, Kathy and Benjamin
The "kitchen" at a conference
LIFT UF
YOUR
EYES'
by Kathvyn \-Jatts
Teaching a group of high school seniors.
You might say they are an unwilling field because many of them have no
choice about whether they listen to the Gospel or not. "They" are the thou
sands of school children in Zambia who come weekly or daily for classes in
religious education in Zambia's primary and secondary school systems.
Religious instruction is included in almost every school in Zambia where
teachers can be secured.
Although some of them may not willingly choose the subject, we are still
given the opportunity to present the good news to them, to pray for the Spirit
to move in their lives, and to claim God's promise that His word will not
come back to Him void.
And theformal classroom scene pavestheway for closer personal contacts
at other times - during morning break, at lunch, after school - during which
time young students reveal a hunger to have people show personal interest
in them and to ask questions that class time does not allow for. They ask
questions such as, "Do you mean I can really pray about this? Does God
care about things like my examination fees for school?" "What can I do if
I have sinned?" "How do you know if you have the Holy Spirit?" "Do you
think it is all right if I was baptized as a baby?" And when a student comes
up to say, "One of yourformer students asked me totell you that he accepted
Christ at National Service Gamp. And you know, I've never seen such a
change in a person. I've never seen anything like it," it gives the opportun
ity to reply that what Jesus has done in that life can be done in his own.
Of course there are frustrations; there are papers to grade, lectures to
prepare, reports to file, and all of the routine work that goes with any job.
There is the disappointment and hurt of students who obviously don't care
and seemingly don't listen. But in a world in which we seek for ways to
reach the millions whom God still wants for His own, teaching young people
inZambian schools seems a God-given opportunity to touch lives that already
established churches may never have an opportunity to reach.
We need to lift up our eyes to look at the young people around us, lift
up our eyes to the Savior who loves them and reach out to share that love
while the opportunity is ours.
i -t' ^
-M. ..1^.
y"i c i,
Kay teaching a youth class.
11
vT'- \Y'
I.- ''. *< ^
r'. 11 u\
li; t f / ]ft*)l 1
There are so many young people in Zambia who need to be reached for
Christ.
KATHRYN WATTS
Kay Watts is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs . Russell Morgan,
members of the staff at Johnson Bible College, Knoxville ,
Tennessee. Kay was bom in Atchison, Kansas and lived with
her family in both Kansas and Indiana before her parents
accepted their present positions at JBG . After graduation
from Johnson Bible College and the University of Tennessee,
Kay taught school in Illinois for one year and served as sec
retary to the Business Manager at Johnson Bible College for
two years before coming to Zambia in January 1972.
Kay's work in Zambia involves teaching secondary school
students, in Religious Knowledge, as well as youth work in
the Ndola churches. Her work in this area is a much needed
witness among the literate population of the towns. There
are many opportunities to serve in this type of ministry in
Zambia.
i (
R MESSAGE FDR ALL"
by Jim Conley
In the English speaking work we meet people from all walks of life. Most
missionaries work with a certain tribe or culture. We work with many tribes
and many cultures. In the cities of Zambia, english is the language that the
people leam in order to work. There are 72 tribes in Zambia. I suppose
during our work here we have met or we will meet someone from most of these
tribes.
In addition to this, we work with many people who are not African who
come here to work. On Christmas Day, it was my privilege to baptize a man
from Scotland and his wife who is from Burma. The wife was a Buddhist and
the first Buddhist I ever baptized. I have baptized a "colored" lady who
is married to a Greek. (Goloreds here are people of mixed race. This lady's
mother is Zambian and her father is Indian from India). We meet lots of
Indians from India and have them in the congregation regularly. It is good
to know that our message is for all of them.
Through Christ it is possible and is happening that these people from
different tribes, cultures, backgrounds and countries can be of one blood,
calling each other brother and sister. It is Christ who makes the difference
(Galatians 3:26 - 28). Praise the Lord.
'''
Kitwe Church of Christ
Christie, Jim. April and Ginger
JIM CONLEY FAMILY
Jim and Ginger come from Bland, Virginia. They attended
Bluefield College of Evangelism in Bluefield, West Virginia.
Christie and April, their two children, were bom in Bluefield
during the Conley's time in college. Jim graduated from BCE
in 1975. While in college, the Conley's helped to start two
new congregations. One in Valdosta, Georgia, and one in
Bland, Virginia. Before coming to Zambia, Jim was assistant
Chaplin at the Bland Correctional Prison for two years. The
Conleys came to Zambia in March 1976 to start an English
speakingwork in the city of Kitwe. This is their present loca-
Zamblan Family
"SENT TO THOSE WHO HAVE NEVER HEARD!?"
Or Have They?
by John Douglas
If you headeast from Lusaka, the capital ofZambia, youwill runintoChipata
about three-hundred-and-fifty miles down the road. As you make the journey,
you get the feeling that you are entering one of Africa's out-back areas.
Excitement mounts as you anticipate finally encountering "Natives" who've
never heard the Gospel of Jesus Christ!
Upon arriving in Chipata, you are a bitpuzzled. What wasthat largebuilding
we passed just as we entered town? That's the Dutch Reformed Church. And
that ornately decorated building in the middle ofthe business section oftown?
Oh, that's the Muslim Mosque. Lookat that big, beautiful building up on that
hill. What's that? That's the Roman Catholic Church. And there, that looks like
another big church building. Yes, that's the Anglican Church. What was that
man doing in front of the Post Office? He is from the Seventh Day Adventist
Church and he's selling Bibles, song books and other literature.
This isn't quite what you expected. But wait, Chipata, with a population of
approximately 20,000, is the only major town in a district of over 250,000
people. That's it! Most of the peoplearound here live in villages. They'rethe
peopleyou've been looking for. As soon as youcan arrange ityou make atrip
to some villages. Certainly what you see is not like anything you've seen at
home. But there is just enough Western influence to take the edge off of the
special mystique you'vealways felt about Africa. Even morealarming, youare
positive you recognize some church buildings along the main road as you
came.
You soon find a young man who can speak English. After some discussion
you ask whether or not he is a Christian. He replies, "Ch, yes. Nearly all the
people in my village are Christians. Some are Romans, others are Dutch, and
we have others in the Watchtower, Zion, Spirit, African, Anglican and African
Methodist Episcopal Churches."
Much time is spent dwelling on the significance of these facts. It is obvious
you will not be sharing the Gospel with people who have never had any contact
with the Bible before. You are about to become hopelessly discouraged when
two questions come to mind.
What is Satan's influence in this area? Almost immediately God opens your
eyes to the multitudes of sin round about you.. .adultery, polygamy, divorce,
vicious fighting, drunkenness, stealing, etc., etc., etc. You realize your task is
still to seek and save the lost.
Even though there are already churches here, how many people have
regular opportunities to worship God and receive spiritual nurture.. .like we do
in the States? A small percentage!
Viewed from this perspective, you are certain God's call for you to serve in
Zambia is genuine. You can even see that truly the fields are ripe, and you goto
your knees asking God to supply fellow-laborers to help with a task that is
much bigger than you are capable of handling.
16
JOHN DOUGLAS
FAMILY
Gail and John
Born in Porterviile, California, John was raised in the Glovis,
California area. He attended Cal Poly in Pomonaforone year and while
there was converted to Christ by a friend. He then transferred to Pacific
Christian College, graduating in 1967.
Gail was born in Washington D.C. and grew up in Corona, California
where she (as a senior in high school) and her family became
Christians. She attended P.C.C. for 3 years, and she and John were
married in 1965.
John's ministries include a youth ministry with the Corona,
California Church of Christ for 1y2 years; an associate ministry with the
Anacortes, Washington Church of Christ, 1967-69; and a senior
ministry with the Township Street Church of Christ in Sedro Woolley,
Washington. 1969-71.
Following God's leading, John and Gail enrolled at Lincoln Christian
Seminary and College in 1972-73, to study missions under Max Ward
Randall. Encouraged to come to Zambia by Larry and Judy Niemeyer,
and undergirded with the financial means and prayer support of the
Corona, California Church of Christ primarily (also Anacortes,
Washington, Sedro Woolley, Washington, Bow, Washington, Kalispell,
Montana, and Ipava, Illinois) John and Gail arrived in Zambia in
February, 1974. They helped with the work in Kasama for 1 year and
then moved to Chipata in the Eastern Province to start a new work and
have been there for 3y2 years.
Women's Bible Study John bicycling to new vi
EVANGELISM:
THEY KEEP SMOKING
jWv ?V '
%
MY TRACTS!'
by Larry Niemeyer
Larry and Heath on bush transportation.
Tracts in thenaithex - tracts in the vestibule - tracts in the shirt pocket -
tracts in the pew. We place a lot of confidence in tracts. One of the first
things we missionaries do when we arrive in a country is to get a supply of
tracts. They communicate profound truths in perfectly logical ways, causing
deep meditation , conviction and belief. If they fail in any of these en
deavors - you can always smoke them.
That's what many people did when I started handing out my tracts - those
precious pieces of paper that explained everything. Of course, we didn ' t
know they were rolling their tobacco in them. We thought they really liked
them. We thought they were reading and meditating, we thought they were
sharing them with others . They were . But for different reasons .
What do you do? Well, you take the tracts out of the shirt >ocket and
leave them in the office. Then you go out and start telling ,eople about
Jesus - in ways they understand.
LARRY NIEMEYER
FAMILY
Judy, Heath and Larry
Larry and Judy Niemeyer first gave themselves to service
for Christ in Africa in 1967 when they began a two year term in
Rhodesia. Previous to this commitment, Larry had received
a B.A. from Pacific Christian College in Long Beach, Calif
ornia. He was ordained in 1964 by the Christian Church in
Beaverton, Oregon, and served two congregations in Southern
California as associate minister before going to the field.
Judy complemented Larry's preparation for this initial work
with that of her own preparation. She excelled in three years
of study and service at Pacific. A summer internship in south
ern Mexico with the Otomi Indians strengthened her mission
desire.
Two years in Rhodesia gave them invaluable experience in
the Lord's work, all theway from building and mechanics to
linguistics and leadership training . They returned to the U.S.
in 1969 and continued their education in order to develop
needed skills.
Judy received herB.S. from Pacific, graduating summa
cum laude and with recognition in Who's Who Among Students
in American Universities and Colleges. Larry received a B.A.
in anthropology from California State College and went on to
complete classwork for the M.A. in the same field of study.
He also completed one-half the required work for an M.A. in
missions from Fuller Theological Seminary's School of World
Missions.
They joinedZambia Christian Mission in 1972, arriving on
the field in May of that year. The first term was spent in
getting located in the Northern Province among the Bemba
people. A time of waiting allowed them to develop language
skills, evangelistic techniques, and leadership training ma
terials. They adopted Heath Erik on September 10, 1973. The
last nine months of their first term were spent in building their
home in Kasama and helping the Douglases to get that work
established.
After a brief furlough, the Niemeyers returned to Kasama
for their second term in Zambia. They have been engaged in
village evangelism, church planting, writing and translating
Christian education materials, and intensive efforts to com
municate the Gospel cross culturally.
Larry, Judy and Heath hope to return to the States in April
1979 for furlough and the completion of graduate work in anthro
pology and missions .
THE TOWN WORK IN KASAMA
by Bob Weaver
Kasama, with a population of 10,000 people, is the Provincial Head-
quartfe.o forthe Northern Province of Zambia. The newrailroad and industries
being developed are making Kasama a very important center in the develop
ment plans of the nation. Because of this, Bob felt the need for a strong
town church to minister to the needs of the growing urban population.
Bob has been concentrating his efforts at the English speaking level.
Much of the new urban population use English not only in their business
life, but in their personal life as well. The establishing of a Bible believing
church among this group of people is of great importance to the long-lasting
impact of the New Testament Church.
The new congregation is in the process of erecting a new church building
on a centrally located plot in the heart of Kasama. It is almost up to roof
level and should be completed by June of 19 78.
As Important as a building is, our main concern is to build a strong ,
mature group of believers that will be able to reach out to the community and
witness for our Lord.
We covet your prayers for this young group of believers, that they will
be a strong testimony here in Kasama.
Laying the foundations.
Bob, Frances. Lisa, David and Todd
BOB WEAVER FAMILY
Bob Weaver was a businessman in the Los Angeles area
when he felt God was callinghim to full-time Christian work.
He quit his job and went back to Pacific Christian College,
where he had gone before his marriage to his wife, Frances.
They have three children: Lisa, 15, David, 13, and Todd, 12.
In April 19 75, the Weavers met their friends, Larry and Judy
Niemeyer, who were home on furlough from their work in
Zambia. After much thought and prayer. Bob and Frances de
cided to serve the Lord as missionaries to Zambia. They ar
rived in the Northern Province in July 1976 to work with the
Niemeyer and Fort families.
. "* wi
i j/
The Kasama church building Bob completed.
Bob and Frances in a medical clinic.
"UJHRT CRn I DO?"
by Tom Fort
Often we do not know how to help our Zamblan brothers. One of the
Christians asked. If your child is very sick, and you take him to the hospital
and they fail to make him well, is it wrong for a Christian to go to the tradi
tional doctor?" (witchdoctor) The room became very quiet when the man
spoke, the other Christians waiting intently for my reply. The question was
not a casual question.
Though! sensed the import of the question, I was caught quite unprepared
for it. I asked him what the traditional doctor could do for the child. He
said that the doctor could apply some local medicines and could find a reason
for the illness. I asked, "Where does the traditional doctor (witchdoctor)
get his knowledge?" He answered, "From God." I then asked, "Why do you
have to know the reason for the illness?" He said, "Because the heart
pangs."
Cur brother wanted help for his child from the traditional doctor. I was
going to object because the help he would receive would likely involve div
ination. The only thing I could think of was Deuteronomy 18:9-22 which I
proceeded to read to the whole group. In this passage, divination, an essen
tial method in the traditional doctor's practice, is expressly forbidden. The
passage seemed to make an impact upon the group, but I sensed that his
struggle was really unresolved.
The medical needs of the child were not the only needs . Among Zambian
people, there is a deep, abiding belief that everything has its cause. There
fore, something was behind the child's illness. That 'something' needed to
be discovered and dealt with. Cr, as he put it, "the heart pangs".
Let us appreciate the function of the traditional doctor in society. He is
the person who for centuries has answered the question of why and has helped
people deal with life's problems. The medicinal side of his practice - the
herbal medicines and the African medical techniques--was not my main con
cern. My concern was his reliance upon divination.
Divining is a method of ascertaining truth, knowledge, or even the will
of God. In divination, a power operates on the objects so as to manifest
truth. The practitioner possesses the power of interpreting and revealing the
message manifested through the objects. Divination is a demonic instru
ment .
It was simple to read Deuteronomy 18 to our brother; but it was not simple
to touch deep into his spirit, to really help him in his struggle. His child
was still sick. The hospital had failed. He wanted to consult the traditional
doctor and I was objecting because divination would likely be involved. What
could he do? What could I do?
Such is our ministry sometimes. We have to be patient, be firm, and
call on the Lord for healing and wait for Him to bear His fruit.
22
TOM FORT
FAMILY
Tom. Roberta and Joshua
Tomwas raised in Southern Idaho, the rural town of Jerome.
He graduated from high school in 1961 and attended Northwest
Christian College, Eugene, Oregon, graduating in 1967 with a
Bachelor of Theology degree.
For three years, he served as Associate Minister of the
UniversityStreet Church of Christ in Eugene. He did graduate
studies in speech at the University of Oregon in 1970 and cross
cultural studies at the School of World Missions , Fuller Sem
inary in 1971.
Roberta was raised in Yamhill, Oregon, where her father
pastoredthe Christian Church for 16 years. After high school,
she attended Northwest Christian College for 2 years, then the
University of Oregon for 2 ^ years where she graduated with
the Bachelor of Science degree in 1968. In 1969 she graduated
from Children's Hospital School of Los Angeles with a Cert
ificate in Physical Therapy. She is a Registered Physical
Therapist, licensed in California and Oregon and has had
various job experiences in that field.
Tom and Roberta were married in December 1969. They
joined the Zambian team in October 1973, working first in
Kitwe,then in Kasama from July 1975tothe present day. They
have one child, Joshua Urban, born the 13th of April, 19 78.
Completing a mission house.
,, ''(...ii'.J ; t;
V.*- A,
THE UNFOLDING OF THY
WORDS GIVES LIGHT
by Lee Alhaugh
Ba Charles came to our door, the sweat in beads on his face mingled with
the dust from the road.
"You are with health", he greeted. "Yes, my friend, and you also."
After quenching his thirst he handed me a piece of wrinkled paper, on
which was written this message In the Bemba language: "Please sir, come
quickly, I have no power to stand. I am suffering too much, Ba Slchlllma
(meaning of name, "father of the garden").
We set off for Malamba Village Immediately, on the way my friend explained
that Ba Slchlllma had been plowing with his oxen when the plow came up and
punctured his knee, causing water to flow out. We hurried the eighteen miles
on dirt roads, I with the fear that I would not know what to do when we
arrived.
When we reached the village, we found that a government Land Rover had
passed through the village and taken Slchlllma to the Rural Health Center at
Kawlmbe. Following the Land-Rover tracks we finally arrived at the Health
Center only to find that Slchlllma had been taken on to the hospital. My
friend set off by bicycle to return to Malamba and I kept trying to pacify the
thought that I had wasted the whole afternoon.
As I bumped and jarred my way back towards Mbala, I came upon a
middle aged man, waving me down to ask for a lift. "Why not?" I thought,
at least It would keep me from worrying about the lost time.
"Ingllenl" (come In), I Invited as he thanked me for my kindness. We
talked for awhile until he came to know who I was and why I had come to
Zambia. At that point his attitude changed and he told me of his five year
membership In the Watchtower Society.
"Then you do not believe that Jesus Is God?" I asked. "No, He Is only
the Witness of God", he explained.
Beginning with John 1:1, I began explaining In my faltering Bemba, God's
own testimony as to who Jesus really Is . For over an hour we talked, trying
to weed out the thinking of men from the Word and testimony of God as to
the nature of Jesus. Slowly his antagonistic attitude changed to one of quiet
study as we looked at many scriptures showing how Jesus Is truly the Lord
of the Universe.
As we stopped at his village, I encouraged him to make Jesus Lord of his
life and to throw his Watchtower books Into the fire. He assured me he would
do so and asked where we lived as he wanted to come and study with me.
"Stay well, BaMusonda", I said as we parted. "Arrive well, I praise
God for what I have learned today."
I left him conversing with two women at the side of the road, telling them
of our conversation . God only knows the degree of conviction In Ba Musonda,
but my heart was rejoicing.
A wasted day? No, not hardly. I had seen God's word speak to a heart,
and now I could go home with a glow In my own heart.
24
Cheryl. Brian and Lee
LEE ALBAUGH FAMILY
Lee was bom and raised in Portland, Oregon, where he
graduated from Wilson High School in 1967. In 1971, he re
ceived a B.A. degree from Northwest Christian College with
a major in Ministry-Missionary. In 1970-1971, he served as
Ad-Interim minister at First Christian Church in Grants Pass,
Oregon; followed by a one year associate ministry at Suburban
Christian Church in Corvallis, Oregon. In 1973, he studied
Aviation Technology for six months at Portland Community
College.
Cheryl attended Hillsboro High School and upon graduation
was voted "Secretary of the Year", and "Most Likely To
Succeed". She then went on to work as a professional secre
tary. Lee and Cheryl met and were married at the, Beaverton
Christian Church, which is now one of their main supporting
churches.
In 1975, they served as furlough replacements forthe Larry
Niemeyer family in Kasama, Zambia. Feeling called to full-
time service in Zambia, they returned in October 19 76 and have
begun a new work among the Lunguand Mambwe people of the
Mbala district in the Northern Province of Zambia. Their son,
Brian Joshua, was bom at Mbala in October of 19 77.
-Si-?!
Ba Sichilima. village evangelist. Mbala church
THOSE WHO SERVE WITH US
by Lee Albaugh
Behind any missionary's success is an army of
workers. Just as only a few men in an army seethe
actual battle, thousands of others make the
confrontation possible; and the victory assured.
We in Zambia Christian Mission have been
blessed with an army of support, ranging from
individual prayer battles to those who actually
come for a short time to see and help in the
conflict themselves.
. . .AS OUR HOME BOARD
In the past two years we have had two members
of our Home Board of advisers visit us on the field.
Their visits were not paid for by the mission; they
came on their own, personai sacrifice, in order to
be of some encouragement to us.
Denver and Helen Sizemore, then Chairman of
our board, visited us in July of 1977. He wrote of
their visit: "We went to Zambia to see the work
being done by the missionaries and Christians
there; to preach and teach; and to lead in a retreat
for all the missionaries. We had ample
opportunity to do all three. Denver spoke 39
times; Helen, 13, during the time we were in the
country." We in the mission family were truly
enriched by their visit.
The Secretary, and former missionary, of our
board, Vernon Oakley, and his wife Kathryncame
for a visit in August of 1978. Again, at their own
Denver and Helen Sizemore
expense and help of other Christians, they were a
great encouragement to the churches and
mission families. Vernon's dedicated work to the
mission through the years has been greatly
appreciated by the families on the field. He has
dedicated hours of unrewarded labor to the work
in Zambia, ail because of his love forthe Lord and
the people of Zambia.
Other members of board include: Dr. Max Ward
Randall, a former missionary in Zambia and now
teaching missions at Lincoln Christian College;
Dr. David Eubanks, President of Johnson Bible
College; and the newest member of the board
from the West coast, Tim Coop, minister of the
Corona Christian Church.
These stand with us here in Zambia. Our board
is not paid, but offer their advise and counsel from
home so that we missionaries can make the
necessary decisions on the field to improve our
effectiveness.
. . .AS SHORT TERM VOLUNTEERS
Although we do not have a formal short term
missionary program, we have been blessed with
those who have wished to give a few months of
their life to help here in Zambia.
Jeff Mayfieid, a student at Lincoln Christian
College, and Anne Wolske, a young school
teacher from Illinois, gave of their summer
Summer helpers Jeff and Anne.
Cyndee and Jim Oavis
vacation in 1978 to come to the field and help In
any way they could. Jeff did everything from
laying bricks for a house in Mbala, to chasing
elephants in Luangwa Game Park. Anne did
secretarial work and even a special Bible School
course in Lusaka. Although here for a short time,
they are a part of us, and are still serving us even at
home.
Jim and Cyndee Davis, children of Dean and
Judy Davis, have also been out several times and
have visited and helped out in most of the mission
homes in Zambia. We are happy that Jim may one
day join us as a full time missionary.
Others are making plans to serve with us. Two
families will be with us thiscalendaryear, 1979, to
serve as furlough replacements. Mike and
Brenda Dumler will becoming to serve the Lusaka
area while the Davis family is on leave. Ken and
Ruth Tyner will also be comingtoserveforayear,
tentatively in the Kitwe English speaking work
being carried on by Jim Conley.
All of these have been, and will be, a part of the
The Oakleys fellowship wllh the mission family.
battle for souls here in Zambia.
. . .and YOU
Yes, YOU are a part of our army. Without the
base support of your prayer, life-line support and
active involvement; there would be no Zambia
Christian Mission. You are part of the growth that
has seen our churches increase from 5 in 1967 to
54 reported in 1977: and the outreach that is many
times that number as Christians bear the good
news in their homes and villages.
We look to you in the years to come for
continued support in the cause of the Good News
of Jesus Christ. It is a battle "not against flesh and
blood, but against the rulers, against the powers,
against the world-forces of this darkness, against
the spiritual forces of wickedness in the heavenly
places." Eph. 6:12.
Thank you for taking your place beside us; and
if you haven't, won't you?
FURLOUGHS
Having just returned from our fourth furlough in
what is now nearly 17 years of missionary service,
there are a few thoughts on furloughs I'd like to share.
What furloughs 'are and are not' has always been an
interesting subject among missionaries. I remember
reading in a book once, the words one missionary was
met with on his return to the states. "Gee, you
missionaries are really lucky all this time off! And travel
expenses paid at that!" Fortunately for most of us our
fellow Christians in America are much better informed
today and far more understanding.
Furloughs are a busy time for the missionary, but
they are also a complete change of routine, which is
good. While the missionary may or may not have a
holiday during that leave, they do have a time of
spiritual and emotional renewal of strength which is
badly needed. A three of four year term with few (if
any) breaks leaves the soul and mind drained and
parched in addition to a weary body. Coming home to
mingle with mature Christians in your open cultural
background, and gleaning fresh ideas from
inspirational messages and literature, Is like a spiritual
"shot in the arm" which revitalizes the soul. Meeting
other missionaries or fellow Christians with a real
interest in worldwide evangelism at Mission
conventions, fairs, faith promise meetings or other
mission programs are mountain top experiences with a
lasting after glow. The sharing of experiences, and
comparing successes and failures, (we have a few of
those too) on the field is another exhilerating
dimension of our time at home. The missionary (being
very human) needs to know that others have met with
obstacles and discouragements similar to his own and
how they have dealt with them. Often the testimonies
given in these exchanges of God's real presence and
help in those situations are thrilling, and it's a pity they
aren't recorded.
Perhaps we ought to say a word or two about the
"long winded" missionary. It's a problem that will never
be fully solved. But I'd liketo say a word in their behalf.
They come from countries where time means nothing.
They have three or four years of intensive living and
giving to share. And they must fit it into a time capsule
of 30 minutes very often. They react differently
according to their various personalities. Some become
so uptight, their message is stilted, but short. Others
become so flustered they have difficulty finding a
convenient place to stop and so. go on too long. Usually
towards the end of furlough they hit a happy medium.
The most rewarding experience I had, was when I
spoke to a large group of ladies at a church I had never
visited before. I was nervous about the time and hadn't
had an opportunity to find out much before the
program. But later one of the ladies told me that they
always let a missionary speaker have all the time they
needed. She and one or two others had visited a
mission field once and they understood how much
there was to tell. In some cases, if a church isn't willing
to given enough time to a missionary to tell his story, it
by Jackie Brant
would be better not to have him come.
Personally, I found our last furlough one of our very
best. In closing I'd like to share a few reasons why this
was so. First of all, we decided after much prayer, to
settle as close to our home (and living link) church as
possible. Some missionaries are fortunate enough to
have all their support from one or two churches in one
area so this is no problem. But our's covers many
churches over a wide area. Our children were of an age
(9 and 12) where we felt they needed roots in a home
church environment. This was a real blessing for us.
While Bill was away, we felt we had a church family to
turn to at any time. They were able to become involved
in youth activities such as choir, camps and youth
groups. They renewed old friendships, strengthening
them and made new ones. Now they keep in touch by
mail. For the first time they felt like they had a church
family that cared about them. Many of the older people
in the church took a special interest in them and they
came to love them as their spiritual grandparents. Iwas
able to become involved myself in the adult activities of
the church and felt I was really a member, under the
direction of some real spiritual leadership. It created a
satisfying feeling of spiritual well being that I sorely
needed. Whenever I was able to contribute to the
church program, I found real joy in doing so. And it
gave Bill a haven of refuge to return to whenever he
wasn't traveling. The feeling of being cherished by
other members of the body of Christ is a wonderfully
healing process. It also gave us the opportunity to
work closely with our forwarding agents. We became
more of a unit and we were able to return rejoicing in
the knowledge, they had our interests well in hand. We
are assured that whatever the futu re may bring they are
solidly behind us. These are the real blessings of a
furlough. And they make the hectic planning for
coming home (and returning to the field) worth it all. I
guess we can't get away from all the hard work and
necessary preparations such as innoculations, visas,
planned programs in advance forouryoung churches,
etc. But when that's all behind us, and we are at last "on
furlough" how rich and rewarding it is.
Vonnie. Jackie, Bill and Leslie Brant
4000
3500
3000
2500
2000
1500
1000
500
CHURCH GROWTH IN ZAMBIA
Compiled by Larry Niemeyer
MEMBERSHIP
1967- 1977
with projections to 1982
/
/
*
f
/
f
/
/
*
y
y
y
y
1967 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82
PROJECTED MEMBERSHIP (1978 - 1982)
YEAR MEMBERSHIP
1978 1782
1979 2160
1980 2619
1981 3186
1982 3861
The above graphs and data were compiled by Larry Niemeyer. The statistics reflect what was
reported to himbythe missionaries inZambia; and the projections made on the basis of past growth.
As new missionaries have been added recently, this growth pattern may be expected to accelerate.
We praise the Lord for the way He has added and we pray that He will multiply the number of
believers in the years to come.
29
FIELD ADDRESS
MISSIONARY
LEE & CHERYL ALBAUGH
Brian
P.O. Box 290
Mbala, Zambia
BILL i JACKIE BRANT
Vonni e, Leslie
P.O. Box 2280
Kitwe, Zambia
GARY & META BURLINGTON
p:0. Box 873
Ndola, Zambia
CECIL & BETTY. BYRD
Beniamin, Miriam, Kathryn
P.O. Box 178
Ndola, Zambia
JIM & GINGER CONLEY
Christie, April
P.O. Box 1349
Kitwe, Zambia
DEAN & JUDY DAVIS
Cyndee, Jim, David
P.O. Box 2184
Lusaka, Zambia
CHARLIE & BETTY DELANEY
Shanda, Robin
P.O. Box 2184
Lusaka, Zambia
JOHN & GAIL DOUGLAS
P.O. Box 399
Chioata, Zambia
TOM & ROBERTA FORT
Joshua Urban
P.O. Box 366
Kasama, Zambia
DON & LINDA MECHEM
She 11ey, Timothy
Ist Christian Church
Stilwell, Oklahoma 74960
LARRY & JUDY NIEMEYER
Heath
P.O. Box 326
Kasama, Zambia
KATHRYN WATTS
P.O. Box 873
Ndola, Zambia
BOB & FRANCES WEAVER
Lisa, David, Todd
P.O. Box 326
Kasama, Zambia
MEssien Sereict*
Box 177
Kempton, Indiana 46049
DIRECTORY FORWARDINr, AaENT
FORWARDING AGENT
MR. S MRS. PAUL BUDKE
Route 1, Box 888
Beaverton, Oregon 97005
MR. & MRS. FRANK MORBER
840 Chester Avenue
Akron, Ohio 44314
DR. & MRS. JERRY ROSE
945 Ce1ia Lane
Lexington, Kentucky 40504
MR. & MRS. CALVIN CHANEY
Route 4 Box 265
Campbel1svi11e, Kentucky 42711
MR. & MRS. GEORGE BALL
Route 2, Box 213 A
Bland, Virginia 24315
MR. S MRS. SKIP ALLEN
P.O. Box 611
King, North Carolina 27021
MR. & MRS. VERNON OAKLEY
P.O. Box 576
Heyworth, Illinois 61745
MR. & MRS. BILL PIERCE
Harbortown. Rt. 2
Box 727
Big Sandy. Tennessee 38221
MR, & MRS. ROY PATTON
730 W. nth
McMinnville, Oregon 97128
BERNICE SCHULTZ
P.O. Box 233
Faribault, Minnesota 55021
MR. & MRS. DEE SHAFFER
8511 E. Cambridge St.
Scottsdale, Arizona 85257
MR. & MRS. RUSSELL MORGAN
Johnson Bible College
Kimberlin Heights Station
Knoxville, Tennessee 37920
MR. & MRS. CARL DUPRAY
5201 Marview Drive
La Palma, California 90623
FURLOUGH DATES
Oct. 1979-July 1980
Dec. 1977-Jan. 1979
Jan. 1980-Jan. 1981
Sept. 1979-Sept. 1980
June 1979-June 1980
July 1979-June 1980
June 1979 - June 1980'^
December 1981
November 1981
May 1978
April 1979
Dec. 1978-Dec. 1979
August 1979
Non Profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Kempton. IN.
Permit #4
M