Greetings from Kev in Kathmandu - Newsletter 1

Hello,

Well, I’ve been in Nepal for just over a week now and so much has happened – a lot to take in, to learn and to prepare for - a lot to give thanks for too!

After a relatively problem free journey, I received a great welcome and had my first experience of the sights and sounds of Kathmandu.  This was sadly marred when I realized that evening that I had lost my passport after arrival.  Being the sort of guy who likes to double check all the details, I was shocked that this could happen – but somehow I’d managed it!  Thank you to everyone who prayed about this – shortly after your meeting, I learnt that the passport had been found by a local man, who had notified the British Embassy!

The first task I have been asked to take on is the leading of the children’s devotionals.  These are held each evening for the orphanage children - I will give a bible talk and also pray with them for anything which is on their minds.  They do a brilliant job of leading the worship themselves.  Most are born again believers, and meeting the group for the first time, I was struck by the depth of faith in these young people - it was a moving experience.  This does necessitate, though, that the bible talks include meaning and application, rather than simply reading a children’s story.  The group know me as “Kevin Uncle” – it’s phrased that way in Nepal.  These particular children understand English, so no interpreter is needed.  They study English at school, so my giving the talks in English will help them in this area also.

Most churches meet on Saturdays, as Sunday is a working day in Nepal. The services are wonderful - even though I can’t understand what is being said.  My first preach will probably be on Saturday 31^st, when Pastor Min Raj will do the interpreting.

Next up, in February, is an outreach in the west of the country – about 500 miles from Kathmandu.  A similar one last year, in South Nepal, saw 1,000 people coming to faith and greater fruit is hoped for this year.  The details and the follow up are handled by the churches in the area, since strengthening the local church is seen as the key way forward in Nepal.  I will be involved – but don’t yet know how, yet!.  Please pray for protection over these plans.  The main danger is that a bund could be called.  A bund is a sort of general strike and although peaceful, it does mean that roads are closed, which would make it impossible for people to travel to the events.

In March, bible school reconvenes after it’s break.  The school takes students who have been recommended by churches from across Nepal.  Age range is 18-60, although the majority are at the younger end of the band.  I will be teaching in the bible school – a tremendous privilege which I am looking forward to.  I have to admit to feeling under-qualified for the responsibility this carries, so please pray that students will gain much benefit and for the Holy Spirit’s guidance to ensure that I teach biblical truth.

There will also be some practical work – in the tradition of Soapbox projects.  The ministry occupies two buildings which include church, orphanage, bible school and pastor’s accommodation.  These are in need of some maintenance and re-painting and thanks to generous support, it will be possible to at least start this work soon.  On the painting side, my role will be to help and support the professionals.  It is also hoped to build a prayer room on the roof of the bible school for local people to use on a 24hr basis.

Many, many thanks to everyone who has supported this work in different ways – your support means so much and has made a huge difference.

Please pray for God’s continued protection over the great working relationships which have already been established.  Not only are they a joy – they are also vital to my work here.

    

With best wishes from a clear, bright Kathmandu!

Kev Whitby