Life feels like a huge tapestry, woven together with different textures and threads, colours and shades, with pictures and patterns emerging over time. RLBC became part of our weaving in 1999 when Eddie Larkman came to speak at our AIM Conference in Tanzania. Our hearts were gripped by the story of Jacob and his part in God’s big story – and our eyes were opened to the part that we - in all our weakness, failing, fears and possibilities – could play too. Eddie came back again and again and we were all thirsty for the freshness of his messages. RLBC has been a church we have loved coming to on Home Assignment, as you have embraced us with warmth and practical care.

So since that very first conference we have now been in Tanzania with Africa Inland Mission for over 10 years- life never stays the same and over the years we have continued to learn and grow. What are we doing? Who are we becoming? Well the longer we stay, the less we feel we really know and the more we have come to love this vast country; and the gracious, humble and hospitable people who live here. We strongly believe that the Church is God’s chosen vehicle of transformation- that the body of Christ has been charged with the responsibility of proclaiming and living the fullness of the gospel to a watching world.

Dr Chris Wright points out that ‘we need a holistic gospel because the world is in a holistic mess’. The church therefore needs to speak into all areas of life. We work with the Africa Inland Church, Tony mainly in ongoing theological and pastoral education. The essence of this is to help the pastors of our diocese to stay fresh and sharp, developing their leadership skills and imparting clear leadership with integrity and fervour to their congregations. He also works with Langham Preaching Partnerships to help pastors across a range of denominations to preach faithfully from scripture. The third ‘hat’ he wears is his role as Unit leader to around 40 AIM mission partners, which is a partly administrative/pastoral role.

Cath’s heart is to see ordinary Christians offer what they have to God, and like Gideon, ‘to go in the strength you have’, and for each one to make a difference in their own sphere of influence. Her primary role is as Coordinator of the HIV/AIDS department of the Africa Inland Church, trying to create a low key, low cost sustainable, grassroots ministry that does not require outside funding. She also works in various community projects and in advocacy.

Our ongoing prayer is ‘Lord let our lives tell the truth about who You are’. We stand in awe of our great and generous God who is abounding in love and compassion and in His mercy and mystery sustains all things. It is a privilege to be here in Tanzania and we covet your prayers as God continues to weave all of life’s ups and downs, pains and sorrows into a picture that reveals His glory.

Please pray for:

For safety on the hazardous roads here.
For rich meaningful relationships with local believers
For a ‘learning and humble ‘spirit as we grow into becoming more senior members of AIM!
Thanksgiving for strength, vitality and health.
The development of Sanga Sanga retreat centre- personnel, resources, protection.

Email:   tony.swanson@aimint.net