This year-end report from former FGBC pastor Bob Belohlavek, now working with Jim Hocking’s ICDI ministry in Central African Republic, gives encouraging updates on a variety of items, including the development of a new shortwave radio station.
Over 16 wells have been completed. More than 40,000 people are benefiting every day from fresh, clean water that is close to where they live.
Teaching has been huge. With every well has come hygiene &/or AIDS prevention training. True Love Waits Seminars have challenged married and single people to think carefully about their lifestyle.
A sidebar opportunity of Bibles came up. Years of civil insecurity in the country has led to a depletion of Bibles. ICDI was able to see thousands of Bibles delivered to four different missions groups for distribution in both French & Sango.
Our well-drilling headquarters in Berberati is now a great center of loving assistance. Ron and Janet Ziegelbaur are selfless and tireless in their efforts to see this ministry be a base of service to other missionaries. They are helping distribute funds to other missions groups through bank transfers in that location.
Getting funds to and from Africa is not an easy task as it involves many delays. Ron has been willing to work on any mission truck that finds its way to the garage. Finding a mechanic you can trust in CAR is just about impossible; so this service alone is worth its price in gold.
Three different work teams made completion of our first Orphan Care Center possible. It will officially open in the second week in January. Health helps, educational encouragement, and trade-specific endeavors will all happen through the Center.
A Sewing Center will be launched. Three treadle sewing machines and all the other necessary trimmings will serve orphans not able to attend school. Our vision is to give orphans the opportunity for an honest way to care for themselves. Prostitution and thievery are the common patterns. We believe Jesus can do better than that!
World Food Program has been gracious to move forward with another quarter of food for orphans and hospitals. ICDI was able to see an AIDS orphanage in Berberati added to the list of places helped. Nutrition programs operated through hospitals in Boguila and Yaloke appreciate the boost of encouragement through this assistance.
Approval has come to launch our radio station from all the top leaders in the government. This initiative represents the first of its kind in the history of the country. We are the first ever private shortwave radio station.
A transmitter from HCJB is being built. Two containers for the installation of the radio station and electrical equipment will be next on the list in 2006 to be secured. Over $75,000 will be needed to realize this endeavor. Radio will be our means to touch Pygmies and Fulani people.
We will be able to get into the hearts of young people on a regular basis giving them courage of heart to stick to commitments they make to stay sexually pure. We can come alongside of widows willing to raise orphans by helping them learn how to provide quality health assistance in practical ways.
The greatest gift this year to me has been your relentless faithfulness to storm heaven’s halls with specific requests. Things have happened in our lives and in ICDI because you have prayed. No greater gift of love could you have given than constantly being willing to pray for Lois, me, and the ministry. How GRATEFUL we are to God for every one of you!