Mozambique
Ministering in Maputo and Pemba, Mozambique
At the base of Iris Ministries in Pemba, Mozambique a tangible peace and serenity prevails. While the giant old Baobab trees stand guard against the African sky next to miles of unspoilt beaches as a symbol of God’s steadfastness and faithfulness, countless young orphans play around, while missionaries from all over the world fellowship, learn, teach, worship and minister.
After showering (cold water only and if you are lucky, running water, otherwise you have to fetch your own bucket of water from the well) you eat a light breakfast while breaking Bread with other missionaries staying at the base. Seeing that the Heavenly Bread is so fulfilling and satisfying, physical needs pale in comparison.
Believers from South Africa, Mozambique and Australia praying together.
Then everybody gathers at the main “Worship Facility”, a roof of tent and dirt floors, some chairs, some wooden benches, a few grass mats and a small stage - but an open heaven and a depth of worship and jubilation and joy unparalleled! Children, youth, adults, old people, of every colour and various countries seek God’s face in Spirit and in truth, and minister freely.
We attended some of the sessions where African pastors are taught - with little earthly possessions, some even barefoot, they come with an eager and open heart to learn and to take the message of hope and salvation to their people.
Sometimes the teaching had to be translated twice - from English to Portuguese, and then again from Portuguese to Macua ( a local dialect).
A number of children at the base can speak English - from the day we arrived a young boy, Solomon, won my heart. He has such a sweet and gentle spirit and whenever he saw me, he came running to “mama Maria” for his hug and chat. When we left I gave him my shoes as his were about 3 sizes too big and barely holding together. One day during the meeting a little girl danced with me and I had the privilege to shower God’s love on her - she was fascinated by my straight hair and kept touching and feeling it - these children are so open and eager to receive; they have so little but they give so much love and joy!
The first weekend there we attended the wedding of Teisa, a full-time missionary at Pemba to Jean. It was held on the beach and everyone was invited.
They used their wedding ceremony as an opportunity to reach people and Teisa did an altar call.
It was special and anointed and a privilege to attend it. Afterwards we fed nearly 3000 people with chicken, rice and a soft drink - a real feast for the local people as they have meat only twice a year!
The outreaches to villages in the bush again highlighted how easy it actually is to share God’s love and message of salvation with people - He prepares the way, and as soon as the first miracle happens, they open their hearts to Him.
May we never neglect to let God’s signs, wonders and miracles flow through our hands because it is that power that opens the doors!
After our stay in the one village, two pastors were also released to stay in the village and begin a church there, thereby continuing the good work that was started among these people.
The people of Pemba and Mozambique are written on our hearts forever and when the Lord prepares the way, we will definitely go back to Pemba.
Perhaps you will go with us?