BSEP

With all our team members back to their healthy selves, a good three hours of rain (thanks so much for praying with us for rain… so crucial for the growth of the crops for the people here!), food in our bellies, and lots of laughs shared even just today, we have much to be thankful for!

Monday was the first day of the BSEP (Burkina Summer Enrichment Program) that Bethany and I are running for some of the children at the CAH (Center for the Advancement of the Handicapped). The program is not in full swing just yet because school is in session this year for most of Burkina until next week, including the CAH. The three girls that are in the program right now have finished school for the year due to their end-of-the-year exams to see if they could enter the next grade. 1 of them passed, the other 2 did not. Their ages are 11, 13, and 14. It has been such a joy getting to know them and their culture more, in addition to helping them improve on their math, literacy, and geography skills. Due to my lack of French-speaking and French-comprehending I have not done much teaching up front, but Bethany has done INCREDIBLY! She is so patient when she has to re-explain concepts to them, assesses during the lesson what should be adjusted, speaks tremendous French that all 3 girls understand, and shining Jesus’ light amazingly! It has been so great assisting her and being with the kids. We have been learning a lot about what they enjoy doing, what they struggle with, and what to work on in the classroom.



It has been so much fun introducing them to new math and literacy games and activities that they enjoy and even ask to do during their break time. Starting the middle or end of next week we will have around 10-15 children from the CAH in the program, many of whom will be deaf. It has been great practicing signing with some of the children and learning new signs from some of the teachers at the CAH.

The other night after dinner everyone on the compound got together at the Walsh's house (full-time missionaries here and Messiah Grads) for a time of worship through song (in French and English), Bible story for the 2 children, hearing Dr. Vader's testimony, and some more French and English singing. Such a great encouragement for everyone!!

Last night for dinner we had a picnic of French baguettes, peanut butter, jelly, and Nutella on top of the cliffs followed by star gazing on top of the water tower on the compound. The stars were wicked bright as there are no other major lights for miles and miles to compete with. Just spectacular!



It has been so great having local Burkinabe visitors in the afternoon and evenings stop by just to “bring greetings” and share a meal together. I am constantly amazed at the thoughtfulness and investment in relationships that is so prevalent in this culture.

Through our interactions with the local people and experiences with the culture, the furthering of God’s Kingdom is so evident here in Mahadaga! Thank you all so much for your prayers! They are so appreciated! Know that we are praying and thanking God for you all as well!!