Gambia 3 Days In

We arrived in Gambia to uncharacteristically cold weather, 26 degrees Celsius. Three of our staff came to meet us at the airport: Mike who is working in community development, Jennifer who is our pharmacist/team leader who works in healthcare development, and Martin our national staff. We had a nice drive in the landrover to our house about 30 minutes away from the airport. Before we got home though, we had to make a ritualistic stop at one of my favorite places in the world, McFadi’s. Not so long ago, a Lebanese man by the surname Fadi was given a great vision. He wanted to bridge two of the great food traditions of the world; he dared to ask the question, “What if Ronald McDonald was Lebanese?” So McFadi’s was born, a fusion of American fastfood and Lebanese haut-cuisine. Glen and David kinda chickened out and ordered pizza, unwilling to explore some of the more exotic choices on the menu. We will be back though, I guarantee it!

We have had the opportunity to have a couple of meetings with a few key church leaders in the last few days. Our task is not simple; we are trying to set up an ecumenical theological institution, in a diverse denominational landscape. We met with Bishop Johnson of the Anglican Church today. It was an encouraging meeting to see his heart for theological training, preaching the “undiluted gospel”, and balancing evangelism and social responsibility. He is excited to be a key partner in this future endeavor. We also met with pastor Tayo at New Creation Bible Church, who has initiated an in-house seminary DVD program. Also, Dr. Reed was able to meet with Pr. Chinedun, of Christian Missionary Fellowship, who will be hosting Dr. Reed in a healing service. Dr. Reed can be quoted around the house saying, “I am going to bring some Holy Ghost fire!” Well he really didn’t say that, but it would be kind of cool if he did. That is coming Sunday night.

Dr. Reed and Taylor have delivered some amazing lectures, of which Wycliffe can be proud. About 30 pastors and church leaders have come out to see the lectures. Glen gave a great talk on the messianic nature of the Psalms and David talked about Christian healing. Tomorrow will be the big conference. Keep it in your prayers.