Oct 4th update

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It's a great day in Mbale - well, actually it is a bit humid and hot, but it's not pouring rain or anything like that right now. It was a good weekend. I was away for a short break Friday night and then back Saturday afternoon. Church was full of the life of God yesterday.
I taught the new believers class (or, as Rogers calls it, the 1st service) on finances - how use them wisely, and Rogers taught in church ("2nd service"). We had 63 adults in adult church and 84 kids plus 2 teachers in kids' church. One teacher who came for the first time last week, brought 20 of his students with him so they could enjoy our Sunday School. We are the only church in town that has a separate time for kids during church. I admire our teachers, who took these 84 kids (that's a 1:42 ratio!) in a small room for 3 hours! They are heroes. And, everyone had a good time.
The first picture is of our kids when they got an ice cream party, thanks to the kids at ECC. They totally LOVED it - some have never had ice cream before. Some wanted to save it to eat later. Others, when I handed them their ice cream cup yelped and dropped it - they have never felt anything so cold and it scared them!
The 2nd picture is of a tree in Mbale. It looks like a cactus at the top, but the bottom looks like the trunk of any 'ol tree (sorry, all you arborists, for my ignorance!). I would like to know what it is - anyone know? Last time I sent a question like this, several of you knew and let me know. Thanks.
The World Race Team arrives today in about 2 hours. The children are really excited to have visitors...as are the staff, the church, and of course ME. Americans - wow, what will it be like to speak English quickly and have everyone understand?? To talk about Starbucks, Oregon, Foursquare...and have people know what I'm talking about. Ah, the joy...
This Saturday is Saturday School. Please pray that many children will come to hear the Good News of the Kingdom of God. And that I can find games to play that can be played by 200+ children ;-).
Sure love you all. Thank you for continuing to pray for us. God is working here...and right where you live. I pray for His kingdom to come in your life even as you read this. God bless you.
Laurie