Last Sunday held two distinctions for us here at the International Protestant Church of Kinshasa. First of all, the big news is that we were able to have the first church social picnic in many years. Secondly it was the hottest day of the year so far which didn't seem to affect the picnic too much. The weather reports said that it was 99 degrees in the shade. Although with the tropical humidity it felt much hotter than that. Fortunately Jill and the ladies that she worked with had 35 cases of sodas and water delivered and put on ice. We used most of their supply.

Judging by the number of sandwiches eaten (more than 300) we had at least 200 people there. It was a fun fellowship event. We set up benches in the quad of the church school buildings and people served themselves to sandwiches, drinks and other goodies. The kids had balloons. The youth had music. The adults had conversations. I think a good time was had by all.

It was fun to see people from many different nations sitting together and enjoying food and fellowship. Many of the people in the church are on diplomatic missions to Congo. Some work for the United Nations others work for various embassies. Some of our members are in the US military or aid groups from around the world. Others members come from various mission groups from around the world. There's even a contingent of local folk: African, Asian and European.

Our church is a sort of oasis for these folks who are away from their homes and their home churches. Jill and I understand the need for support and fellowship while you are away from home. At the church we hope to be an encouragement to those whose journies have them in Kinshasa for awhile. Our prayer is that God will use the activities of the International Protestant Church of Kinshasa to help keep them on the path of spiritual growth.

So, the church picnic was a great success! We were able to have a great event that hopefully helped to build the Body of Christ. And I'm sure that people experienced real fellowship and were encouraged in their faith.

To God be the glory,

Mike and Jill Lowery

Democratic Republic of Congo