Helen and Alastair - some background

Helen and Alastair - some background : We have always hoped to return to Africa once more before we're too old (perhaps we already are!). Alastair first went to Africa in 1974 as a junior doctor, working for the Church of Scotland in a small hospital in Transkei, South Africa. I met Alastair there in 1982, were married in 1984 and continued in Transkei until 1988. From there we went to Kenya, as employees of the Church of Scotland, where Alastair ran Chogoria Hospital. We left in 1995, with Alec, Peter and Becky to establish the children's schooling and our work in Britain. Here Alastair found himself as consultant in Breast cancer surgery, and Helen initially trained and worked as a GP before "evolving" to full time ordained ministry. Alec is now married to Ruth, and they have baby Zach; Pete is in his final year of medicine in Edinburgh, and Becky half way through nurse training in Oxford.

The Diocese of Western Tanganyika is a partner of Gloucester diocese. The plan is for Helen to join the teaching staff of the Bible College, teaching those preparing for ministry. Alastair will teach English to the students at the college, as well as doing some surgery at the church-run hospitals, and helping with project management in the Diocese.
We will keep you updated on our plans over the next few months and will greatly value your prayer support. Our current prayer requests - and thanks to God of course - will be posted on the side bar.

Wednesday, 28 May 2014

and the Dean came to stay

Stephen Lake, the Dean of Gloucester, has just returned home after his first visit to the Partnership, and in fact his first time in Africa. He was welcomed in full African style, with  local tribal dancing, singing and giving of gifts - there is enormous respect here for 'important people'. Stephen entered into each new experience with enthusiasm - from preaching in the Cathedral at the ordination of priests, to a trip around the local vegetable market. (not to mention staying with us and quickly becoming an expert on the bucket shower system).  
This Sunday I have my last sermon here - at the ordination of Deacons. Our leaving parties and events are underway and will continue apace. Needless to say there's still no sign of us beginning to pack!  We hope to get to the beach at Kigoma for a couple of nights next week before we fly home.

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