Here is an update of the friends who have been hosting us during this incredible journey.
June 21st through June 27th -- Lillian Barnard and Family, in Sandton, South Africa
Lillian Barnard was one of the young people hired into the new IBM South Africa during our stay in the 90's. She, along with her son Caleb, her mother and sisters have become close friends that we have maintained contact with over the past 15 years of her IBM career in South Africa. We have watched her professional and family growth over the years we have known her. Joyce visited her in Paris when she was there on a professional development assignment with IBM. She recently returned to South Africa after 7 years abroad, and is now the Director of Business Partner Programs for all of Africa, based in South Africa. We are so very proud of her growth, and feel like we are a part of her family. We really enjoyed the week with her mother, son, and younger sister Memory, renewing our acquaintance and enjoying their fellowship.
June 27th with the Church of Christ in Soshanguve, South Africa
One of first congregations that we established a relationship with was the congregation at Soshanguve. We spent the day with the congregation on June 27th, and had a wonderful time seeing old friends. Many of the children who were a part of our exchange program that brought 30 teenagers to the USA in 2000 are now young adults with families. We had a wonderful time revisiting our memories and meeting their children and learning about their progress as working professionals and members of the church.
I had the privilege of speaking at the morning worship service, and we spent the entire afternoon and evening with the church leaders. The church has continued to serve the community while facing the challenges of a developing country. They too included time for a World Cup soccer match in the course of the day. Throughout our day, the love of God and the fellowship of the saints made us feel right at home again.
June 29th -- Hanging Out with Young Folks from the USA and South Africa
Traveling out of the country is always made more comfortable when you can connect with others from the USA. It is good to compare notes and share insights to make our visit more enjoyable.
Before leaving the USA, we had the privilege of meeting some young men in Columbus who wanted a few pointers about traveling in South Africa. They are avid soccer fans, and packed more activity into one week than you can imagine. They arrived on the 24th, attended 2 soccer matches, including the USA loss to Ghana, visited a Game Park for a Safari, and traveled to Cape Town. We were able to catch up with them for an evening at Monte Casino, an entertainment center in Four Ways, near Sandton, South Africa. No gambling, just good food and fellowship. We were happy to help them with their itinerary, and Memory Barnard provided the entertainment segment of the agenda.
We are looking forward to the remaining days of our journey. It is hard to believe that we have ben here for a month. We have 2 weeks remaining. These 2 weeks will include the Finals of the World Cup, and more fellowship with friends. We are truly blessed!
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