Penny Fair is finally over! Much to our amazement, when Saturday finally arrived, we were ready. When starting time rolled around, and parents, students and visitors came to call, we were prepared to show them a good time. I must say that Bob and I were surprised at the turnout. People had told us that the campus would be packed – everyone shows up – and they were right. It gave us a really warm feeling, and made us feel that all our efforts were not only to raise money for the Class of 2005, but to provide a wholesome fun time for the families of ICA. Although we could hardly drag ourselves home after the cleanup on Saturday, we felt that we would do it all over again if we had to. (And that’s a good thing, since next year, the Class of 2005 puts on the Food Court.) I’ve attached a picture of our class before the big event.
This next weekend is ‘Long Weekend’ – no Friday afternoon classes. Most students will either leave the campus for home or for a friend’s house. Some parents will come and take their kids away for the weekend. Very few stay on campus; those kids who are here actually enjoy the special attention they receive from the dorm parents, including special meals and outings. Please pray for all the traveling that we will do this weekend, keeping in mind the road conditions and the unrest in Cote d’Ivoire.
Speaking of the unrest, there have again been robberies and attacks in Bouake, some in the neighborhood where our Baptist Mid-Missions missionaries live and minister. At least one of these was rather violent. We have been encouraged to be very cautious when we go out (no jewelry, etc.). It has been suggested that we not to go out in the evening, go out only in groups, and not eat in local restaurants. Please pray for our safety; these robberies are being done by the same small group of thugs. Most of our friends in Bouake would protect us if given the opportunity; some of them are even being robbed.
Also, continue to pray for staff for next year. Specifically, we need more grade school and middle school teachers, as well as high school English, French, Math and Music. A building and maintenance supervisor is also needed. Do you know anyone who fits those categories and could come for even 1 year? Give them our e-mail address; we’d love to talk to them about needs.
Thanks again for taking us before the throne.