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Sunday, July 15, 2007

Live From Africa..



810-686-6571 x231!!!! That the proper extension number to call forr team daily team updates.

WE are in Swaziland! Our second half of our team arrived on Saturday safely. Words cannot describe what I have experienced thus far. For example...a young mother came to us at Manzini (city in swaziland where our church is located.) She is dying of AIDS and her husband has already died...and so has all of her extended family. She has twin three year old daughters that have no where to go when she dies. She asked us to takje her children.

This is one ofmany stories..I would be here all day. Anyways, everything is going quite well. In fact, we have been quite productive, even short a few people for a day. WE have been amazingly accepted and loved by the Swazi people. HEre are 2 pictures.
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THe church that we helped build was dedicated on Sunday with 4 different nations represented. Many dignitaries including Bishops from South Africa and Mozambique. We also painted the church and did fencing. Also we played with the children of Africa. They taught us traditional dance and music from their country.

Watch for updates at my blogsite and NBC25 on Monday (july 16th) night at 6 and Friday night. Love you all.

Derek and Dale Woods

8 comments:

  1. Anonymous12:27 PM

    Hi Derek,

    The pictures are priceless! Thanks for sharing. I can see the joy in the children's eyes, and yours as well. God is Good! The first story is so hearbreaking, but how wonderful, that you and your team are there to bring that dying mother comfort in her last days. Give the kids a Huge Hug for me! God Bless you Each and Every Day!

    All the Best!
    Bill Pavlov

    P.s. I'll be tuned in to Monday's News cast @ 6PM. I'm calling in daily for the phone updates. They are Wonderful!!!

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  2. Anonymous5:34 PM

    Derek-

    Thanks for posting updates. My father (Eugene Dufour) is over there with you and we miss him. It is nice to get on your blog and find out what is going on. If you get this pass on to him that he is in our thoughts and prayers everyday, and that we love him. We are also praying for the rest of the team.

    thank you again,

    Beth Brown

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  3. Anonymous6:29 PM

    Hey Derek

    I have prayed hard that the rest of the group would arrive.....how good it is that finally occurred. Your pictures are so touching.....as are your reflections on the experience thus far. The number of AIDS stories in Africa is just overwhelming.....and so very sad. Yet, there are people who care...like you. You, my friend....are a true disciple of Christ. Lots of prayers for you and the entire group....I feel so much a part of your this mission. For that I am blessed...and by the way...I'm not sure who looks more joyful: the kids or you! Can't wait to hear you tomorrow night on the news. Bob

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  4. Anonymous7:25 PM

    Hello Derek,
    Thanks for sharing your journey with everyone back here in Michigan. With the updates we can all rest a little easier knowing that you and the rest of the group are safe and having a great time. May God keep you safe.

    Jennifer Schultz

    P.S. I have to say that the picture on news25 page with you and the few kids the one where you are hugging them is so priceless. You are a big kid at heart!!!

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  5. Anonymous8:02 PM

    Hey little brother!
    What a cool thing that i have a brother in Africa right now! We have been praying for you daily and can't wait to hear more stories and see pictures. We miss you here in MI but you are representing Jesus to the many people that you meet in Africa. We will pray for them too! Love the pictures and it must be so hard to say no to the cute little kids! i would want to bring them all home too! Sorry we missed your call yesterday. Would love to have heard your voice!
    Some news from the homefront. James is sailing in a regatta with a friend at Crystal Lake this week. Very fun for him. Kirsten has her horse show this Saturday. She is very excited and i will take lots of pictures. We did find out that Star does have cancer. She is home and comfortable and we are showering her with lots of love! Mac race was this weekend. First time in 8 years that we did not participate. Mindi's wedding was Saturday night and i quess family obligations come first. Crazy weather race. Blowing like crazy at the start then parked by the Manitou's.Lots of boats still not in to the island as of 11:00 tonight (Monday). We had mom and dad over for dinner tongiht and heard all about their awsoome trip to Ireland.
    Love you lots and remember that God can see both of us right now and is showering His blessings on us.
    Chris

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  6. Anonymous5:02 AM

    Hello my Derek,
    I just love seeing the pictures from Africa. It makes me feel that I am right there with you. I think those little children love you as much as I do. Prayers have been answered for safe journeys for everyone. The NC team to Africa, and us on our trip to Ireland. God keeps au all safe. We are so proud of what you are doing and know that the Lord will be with all your efforts. God bless you and keep you, every day! I love you, Mom

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  7. Anonymous9:12 AM

    Hello Derek,
    Just wanted to give you a heads up that as you send pics into the station, I'm posting them online in a gallery so they are all viewable by anyone who wants to see them.

    http://www.nbc25online.com/weather/content.aspx?id=40895

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  8. Anonymous8:06 AM

    Little Sophia on her birthday (4th) sends her love..and prayers that you continue your transition into a culture that needs your witness. Hey "coach" you've already got another church headed to the missions. Good work guy in a very short time! See ya soon. Bob

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