This will be a one-hour communion service that will replace our two morning services.  This service has come out of the CLC's belief that there is a need to give expression to and seek forgiveness for some of the actions and circumstances that have wounded our past and present congregations. 

This wil be a one-hour communion service that reflects on forgiveness and restoration. Invitations have gone out to many of those who have left our congregations to be present at this service. We believe this is a time to forgive and be forgiven and to allow God's healing spirit to do His work in and among us so that we are able to wlk freely into the future. The 6.00pm service will incorporate the time of apology and restoration within their service.

Brian Day, Chairman 

Fellow Aranians:

Greetings one and all!

I am back in Addis Ababa and that means I now have access to the internet again! Hurrah!

The time at Kamashi was wonderful. The people there are very friendly, even though the vast majority speak no English at all (not that I'm saying that's a prerequisite to being friendly!) I stayed at a hotel in the centre of town. Now delete the image that comes into your mind when you read that. Town is a collection of mostly painted mud walled houses, with only the government building having two storeys. The hotel has dirt floors, low doorways (for me!), and everything has a patina of dirt. I must add that my room was very clean, and had a lino floor, with a huge mosquito net strung over the double bed. The hotel staff were very hospitable and looked after me very well. Ah, I should also mention that there was no running water (cold showers only) and the toilet was the smelliest hole in the ground I have ever encountered! But I had a great stay and was sad to say good-bye to the people (but not the toilet!)

I spent constructive time with the leaders of the church. The church at Kamashi itself is only fairly small, with about 25 attending on the Sunday. But there are five other churches that have been planted, the largest being 40. We were able to visit two of them, and it was an eye-opening experience.

Let me assure you that the people are extremely encouraged by our desire to have a relationship with them, and it is already having a positive impact upon them. They are praying for Arana and want to communicate their love and appreciation.

I must go: my internet window of opportunity is about to expire. I will write more and send it soon.

With love,

Peter

(In Amharic I am called Petros!)