Excerpts from Mark's e-mail:

The first week only got better as it moved along - with students coming for
questions more and more and even two men who want all my notes who are not
in any of my classes. All the classes are fun and we have lots of
interaction. I sat in on a meeting of the student council and heard about
all sorts of simple needs so I gave John some of the extra money early to
assist the students. It will be a great blessing to see their smiles when
some needed things come.(Fire extinguishers, a good used computer, more
mattresses so that each man can have a good used one). Their equipment is
old and outdated and often breaks down.

Today it rained so hard that we had to move out of the chapel (tin roof)
into the library so I could be heard, What a great class - eager men -
wonderful hearts to understand God's word and ready to obey God. Yesterday
we talked about suffering from Joseph's life and a first year student came
and talked to me about suffering in his life - he has suffered - his eyes
were filled with tears as he thanked me for the teaching which helped him
understand the ways of God in suffering. I was humbled by his grace.

This weekend I hope to help Johnny, their oldest son, find some lumber and
make a shelf for his room - nice diversion from lectures and bad lighting.

After my last class today a man asked for all the notes I have ever made on
the synoptic gospels - I told him that I only had stuff on Matthew and part
way into Luke - he insisted on getting all of it. He asked me to consider
coming permanently and working at the school - he was sweet, and very
passionate. Many are like him but much more shy. All of them are thin to
the bone, have high cheekbones, very large eyes and huge friendly smiles.
They love to greet each other and make the environment so pleasant.

Leaving here will be very difficult. Before our Biblical Characters class I
had one of the men lead in a song and it was so glorious to see this brother
shout with pure joy, move with grace and lead the men in traditional African
ballad praising God. A few men play homemade drums and they always clap and
move with rhythm that is a joy to watch. They love that I love it!

Anyway - let the church know that these men are truly grateful to them for
sending me and for the funds that we have given for the improved truck,
which we hope to get before I leave, and for the added funds
for scholarships and much needed things in the dormitories. You would love
the way they communicate gratefulness and joy - it is contagious and makes
me ashamed of myself every time I see it or hear anyone express thanks.

It is Friday and the lady who helps with the house is making homemade wheat
thins - time to go.

Love to all,
Mark