Report from Connie Young

Highlights of 75th anniversary trip to Burundi
By Connie Young

Fri pm, June 25, stands out to me as a holy experience. As we worshiped and shared together with the Saltshaker team, Chuck Mylander, David and Debby Thomas, Brad and Chelsea Carpenter, and the Rwanda church leaders, especially Bucura and Rachel, Sizeli, Augustine Simparinka, Jonathan and others, God's presence was so very real and precious. He bound our hearts together in love and adoration for what He has accomplished in Rwanda in the short time the mission has existed. Romans 1: 16a; 17b

For I am not ashamed of this Good News about Christ. It is the power of God at work, It is through faith that a righteous person has life. This very day the Lord has acted. May God's Name be praised.

The D for D and BAM talks on Sat and Sunday by David and Debby were evidence that God is using them as salt seasoning that brings out the God-flavors of this earth! May God's Name be praised!

In Burundi there were many special moments as I reconnected with friends that have become so very dear and precious to me over the years. We were able to visit with former workers, Pierre Claver, Kamwemubusa Aloys, and Bipfubusa David. Gode, the mid wife who sat by my side all the way to Bujumbura when our son, Rob, was born, still works faithfully at the hospital. Her husband Fidele was surprised that I recognized him and called him by name. The leaders of the Friends Women were a joy to see: Mariya, Tereza, Jacqueline, Carolina, Rusi, Rachel and others. Pastors Ndemera, Melchior, Josias, Niyonzima, Bahenda, Fidele, Mark; and others we have known: Sibomana, Loy, Jeredie, really, there are just too many to mention all by name. Jesus, I offer my prayers for all those with whom we share the journey!

I especially appreciated having Larry and Dee Choate there with their son and grandson. The 75th celebration would never have taken place without the vision and response to God's call of Larry's grandparents, Arthur and Edna Chilson. The power of God was at work in them and He is still at work in Burundi Yearly Meeting. The 2,000 plus people in attendance attest to His wonder working power! Philippians 1:6 And I am certain that God who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. May God's Name be praised!