Annual Conference this year was one of the best we have ever attended. The speakers were inspiring and there were wonderful learning moments. The focus on reaching out to the community for the sake of the kingdom of God was a needed reminder, and we could go on about this for a long time. But one moment really stands out for us: Drew met a bishop.
The first woman bishop of Mozambique was there speaking at a workshop I (Angie) attended. After her talk, I went up to visit with her about our team of missionaries currently in her country. While we talked, Curtis and the boys arrived to take me to lunch. Drew burst through the back of the room, ran with the exuberance only a 2- (almost 3) year-old can have to me. He ran smiling and yelling, "Mommy." He does not hesitate and says to the bishop, "I Drew, and I a big boy." Then he proceeded to introduce her to Zachy, daddy, and his mommy. Then he says, "You name." By this point the bishop is down on his level smiling and you instantly see her love for children. Drew did not know most people are impressed by bishops and wait their turn. He just wanted to meet her. There was just pure joy in meeting a new person.
I am so excited to have had this opportunity to meet Bishop Joaquina Filipe Nhanala. In conversation with her she instantly knew Chris Sams and her love for his work at the Carolyn Belsche Orphanage was obvious. She happily told me she was part of starting this orphanage and was happy to report children who have grown up in the orphanage are now pastors, doctors and teachers in the community.
If you have ever wondered if the money you gave to the orphans in Mozambique make a difference: it does. Right now Chris and Becky Sams, Colleen and Alaina Barclay, and Mary and Christopher Barth are representing us to Mozambique. Be in prayer for them. I know they are being a blessing. Right now they are meeting someone out there who is now going to know their brothers and sisters in Christ in Missouri love them, because Christ loves them. Happily, I believe they are meeting these new people with just as much joy as our Drew.
