Author name: Lois Gillespie

This morning, around 10:00, one of our dorm dads (at the dorm where we often cover for days off) and closest friends, Dave Golding, went home to be with His Savior. He was jogging on the track when he collapsed. Even though CPR and other life-saving procedures were performed, we are told he died immediately.

We don’t grieve for Dave; we know where he is. But we grieve with his wife Denise, and his children, Josh (14), Mark (12), and Nicole (11). 

This comes as a shock to us all because Dave was only 42 and the picture of health. He was often held up as the most-physically fit man on campus. Because he had been experiencing some chest pains, he recently underwent all the heart tests and was given a clean bill of health and permission to exercise. I’ve heard some of our students say things like ‘Wow, if it could happen to him, it could happen to my dad.’ I must admit that I’ve thought the same thing.

Please pray for us again. We cherish your prayers. Pray for Denise and her family as they make decisions about their future without Dave.

Although the yellow flag of caution is flying outside our front office and the US Embassy has recommended delaying all unnecessary travel, we remain ‘safe’ here at ICA on this day when we are all praying for a peaceful anniversary of 9/11. We’ve shared with you by way of BBC and CNN some poignant moments of remembrance, and will continue to do so throughout the day. Our hearts are with you even if we are not, and we are holding special prayer vigils throughout the day.

Please know that we love you and WE are supporting YOU today in prayer.

Today we are celebrating our 26th wedding anniversary – something else to praise the Lord for. Also, one year ago at this time, our container arrived here at ICA – something for which you were all praying and something more for which to praise the Lord

Our fellow EBMer got word yesterday that his container arrived in the country, so he is in San Pedro trying to work through the details of getting it released and on its way to ICA. Please pray that he will be able to do so quickly and without additional unplanned expenses.

We are still short-handed with teachers for the elementary. Not only are some of our classes combined, but we are using qualified staff ladies who have pre-schoolers and would rather not be teaching. Please pray that the Lord will provide one more elementary teacher for this year – soon!

In my Bible study this week, I’ve been comparing the praise songs of Mary and Hannah. It occurred to me that all of the things they were praising the Lord for were part of events that weren’t so pleasant, but God brought beauty from ashes. Please pray with us that He will do so again, and bring about the salvation of our security guards who still do not know Him – as a result of loosing their friend Soro one month ago. 

Thanks for remembering us in your prayers.