So pleased to share with you that the Africa Mercy safely returned to Toamasina (East Coast) of Madagascar on Wednesday mid day 12 February.  Our Country Engagement Team members from the capital, Africa Mercy crew who didn’t sail but flew in, and guests were on the dock to welcome the ship and crew.  There was some traditional dancers, singing, flags flying, and shouts of joy and excitement.  Later in the afternoon, the Governor of the Antsinanana Region came to welcome the crew and take a short tour.  All the Arrival Formalities were completed in a timely manner.  I give thanks to God that all went well.  
In my role as Port Liaison, this is a big event with all the planning coming together.  I had a radio connecting me with the ship in one hand and in my other hand my mobile phone with our agent and other officials.  

I visited the port daily to ensure everything was being prepared for the return of the ship.  The below photo is from the dock at 04:15 to show that the Mole (Berth) A – East is open and available for the arrival.  I also had the time and peace of the morning to walk the dock and pray for all that would be happening on the day.    

On Sunday afternoons, there is the opportunity to partner with Mercy Ministries ONG in Toamasina with their gathering of young people and children coming from different corners of Toamasina for a Christian English Club.  At the same time of helping them to learn English and be more confident in speaking English, the leaders are commited to care for their spiritual and emotional life and that they may experience the love of God.

I continue living at the team apartment in Toamasina, I am at the ship daily representing the Country Engagement Team, attending meetings, assisting the leaders on board, connecting with the crew and enjoying the community life.  We are currently preparing to host a Partners Reception on board for the 6th of March.  This is an opportunity to provide hospitality, make introductions, listen to speeches and view presentations.  This is a time that I can take to introduce my contacts with those on the ship as we continue to build relationships. 

I will continue here in Madagascar with the Africa Mercy till mid April and then transfer to asist the team in Sierra Leone.     

Praise:  * Safe Return of the Africa Mercy  * Increase in the recruitment of volunteers to serve 

Prayers: * Surgical Patient Field Consultations in Madagascar
*  Life Changing Surgeries  * Continued safety for all  * Good health