This was the second trip to southern Africa in the past 18 months to train disciples and connect them to the larger mission of the United Church of God. In Zambia we have more than a dozen churches and several hundred members scattered over a wide area—served by three elders. We were able to meet with 40 of them at our church-owned property near the nation’s capital, Lusaka.

I gave classes on the vision and mission of the Church and how to be a biblically based disciple in response to Christ’s teaching that those who will be greatest will be those who serve. Doctrinal integrity was covered, as well as a session on marriage and the family.

Debbie also conducted a session with a group of the women under the shade of a great tree on the grounds. The ladies had questions about the Bible and the women’s role in creating a warm and stable church environment. This group had previously held a Women’s Enrichment Weekend and desire to have another. As a result of this discussion, Debbie has been able to advise a group of ladies here in America to direct their funds to Zambia to help hold a future women’s weekend.

The Church-owned property has two wells and electricity to serve several buildings that include a caretaker’s house, a storehouse for food and supplies and bathhouses. Members camped on the grounds, and a cook was hired to provide meals during the conference.

God is calling new people into the Church in Zambia. There are member-initiated efforts to distribute Beyond Today magazines. A deacon has translated transcripts of Beyond Today television into a local dialect and placed them on the radio. Members called into the Church from these efforts attended our training sessions. It is clear that God is working in this remote area of the world. I was reminded of the scene from the book of Acts where the apostle Paul began his ministry in the city of Corinth. God appeared to him in a night vision saying, “Do not be afraid, but speak, and do not keep silent; for I am with you, and no one will attack you to hurt you; for I have many people in this city” (Acts 18:9-10).

The fields of southern Africa appear to be white for harvest at this moment. We are fortunate to be able to help advance the work of the Church in this area. Pray for God’s continued blessing on this part of His field.