By Bryce Whiting, Africa/Europe Area Director

TANZANIA – When a church tries to affect its community with the gospel of Jesus Christ, it may be rewarded with seasons of great fruitfulness or dry seasons of great rejection. We are called to be faithful regardless of the season, but sometimes the rejections are overwhelming, putting a damper on our faithfulness. We need some encouragement. Our extended family in Tanzania has been regularly sending encouragement to churches who are struggling to make such an impact in their respective communities.

This Wednesday, Feb. 23, the council of the AC Conference in Tanzania will be meeting at the church pastored by Festus Tungaraza. The day is divided up into several segments:

• First the council will have its meeting, followed by
• A time of worship and the preaching of the Word to encourage the local church.
• A meal will be shared by all; concluded by
• An open-air evangelistic meeting in the heart of the community. New converts will be shepherded by the local church.

I asked, “Who will be the speaker at the open-air evangelistic meeting?” Secretary Johnson Odoyo replied, “We will pray, and select one to bring the message.”

My next question, “What will you eat for the community meal?” (Johnson) “Everyone brings something and we put it all together.”

I sensed quickly that it was my turn to bring the encouragement, “Brother Johnson, I want to buy the meal for everyone. I will send you the money so everyone can eat well.”

I wish you could have heard the gladness over the phone.

Let’s pray for a fruitful harvest of souls.