Church in Assahoun at Gabriel’s House

Pastor Gabriel is a former day volunteer with the Anastasis back in the early 90’s. God has used him to plant churches in and around Togo in cooperation with the Pentecostal Church of Togo. He invited me to visit some of his churches which I did today. The photo is of the newest group who are meeting in his home. Gabriel is in the middle with the yellow shirt.

Church at Djegbakondji Group Photo

Mercy Ships first time in Africa was in the nation of Togo in 1990. A former crew member and friend was involved with agriculture training and construction of a school. This community had no Christian church – only idol worship. My friend and his translator were able to plant a Christian church there. I had the opportunity to visit and share with them this morning at Sunday service. This is a photo of the congregation.

World Cup Final Match at Northside Church

Last night for the Final Match of the first World Cup on the continent of Africa, we went to church and enjoyed a braai between the Closing Ceremony and the start of the match. There was a mixture of people – some for The Netherlands and others for Espana. I chose to cheer for Espana for the many different times I have been with the ship in Tenerife and more recently when I was in hospital in Spain in January and February plus we speak the same language. Many fouls and penalties but it was fun to watch and this brings a close to the most professional football/soccer I have watched on TV in my life!

Braai before World Cup Final Match at Northside

Last night before the World Cup – Espana vs The Netherlands – we enjoyed a braai (barbeque) at the church here in the same community of the Advance Team. They have been very hospitable to our team. Though since I don’t cook myself that often, I sought the advise of Phillip and Marcel who helped with the meat we brought for dinner.

Durban Harbour


Durban Harbor
Originally uploaded by keith.brinkman

A view of the harbour in Durban, South Africa – the days are normally sunny, but it was hazy on this day – but I love the reflection of the buildings in the water of the bay. Durban has a population of over 3.5 million people. As an advance team we are staying just north of the downtown / central business district of Durban.

Watching World Cup on Television

What can I say… we have joined millions around the world in watching the evening World Cup matches on television (8:30pm our time). There are eight matches played here in Durban in a beautiful new stadium just south of where we are staying. After the World Cup, we hope to visit the stadium and take the grand tour including a walk on the upper arc.