September 2013 Newsletter
Dear Friends and Family,
Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ! We thank our God through Jesus Christ for all of you, because your faithful prayers and support are sustaining us as we seek to build God’s kingdom in Zambia.
News from the Theological College of Central Africa
The new term at TCCA begins next week. Over the break I’ve interviewed a number of potential lecturers. It’s interesting to hear how God is working in their lives to bring them to TCCA. We have been short-staffed over the past few terms, but despite some recent departures our numbers will increase this term. I’ve also been involved in interviewing prospective students for the upcoming school year beginning in January. Please pray for wisdom as we seek to guide these candidates through the application process and make decisions regarding admission.
Meanwhile, I am preparing to teach courses on Romans and Ezra-Nehemiah. These are not easy courses! Please pray that God will give me much wisdom as I lead my students through the study of two key sections of Scripture.
In addition, I am working on upgrading TCCA’s computer infrastructure. Technology remains one of TCCA’s greatest needs. I have given a proposal for new computer equipment to one of our supporting agencies. This new hardware would provide a platform for offering online courses, automating administrative tasks, and many other services.
Please pray that I will be able to manage my time wisely, since as you can see the needs are great.
News from Home
Things have been equally busy at home. For the past few weeks we were blessed with a visit from Robert Forsey, a long-time friend, and his son Will. In showing them around Ndola we ended up on national TV several times, first at a football match and later during a visit to the snake house in Nsobe. Now when we meet friends they often comment that they saw us on TV!
More recently, we shared the joy of a missionary friend who adopted a little boy from the orphanage we often visit.
Support Update
Last month we reported a shortfall of $12,500. This has been reduced to about $6,000 thanks to the generosity of our supporters as well as the correction of an accounting error. Our ongoing support needs have also been reduced from $500 to $250 per month, despite the fact that our budget has increased by about 2% for the new fiscal year. We rejoice in seeing God’s goodness displayed through your generosity! Please pray that God will meet our remaining needs.
Prayer Requests
Here are a few more prayer items:
- for wisdom as I navigate through several difficult situations at TCCA
- for Kristina, Anna, Sarah, and Katie as they begin the new school year at home
- for spiritual growth in John’s life as he starts his third year at Memorial University
Blessings in Christ,
Tim & Kristina Churchill