Joseph, Francesca (Joseph's wife), and I left the capitol of Lome' hours after I arrived in Togo. We drove 2½ hours northwest to an interior city called Kpalime. Well, we weren’t really in the city, but that’s the closest thing you could find on a map. The drive was encouraging as Joseph pointed out many churches led by national pastors; men who preach the word of God. I also noticed many other churches from different mission organizations – some faithful to the Word, some not known for sound doctrine. It was so different from the former part of my trip to a different African country. In that country, our 2½ hour flight into the village covered hundreds of miles; hundreds of miles where there is no light from God’s Word.
ABWE has focused on southern Togo until recently. They have now penetrated the north, which can be a day to a day and a half drive depending on road and weather conditions.
During the early years of ministry, ABWE established a hospital in the interior in the south. This facility offers significant medical care. I believe I heard that an average of 10,000 people use the facility annually. While there is nothing routine, the doctors offer office visits, education, and many types of surgery also. The gospel is proclaimed to those using the facility. Many from different parts of the country and even other African countries use the facility and many have come to know the Lord over the years.
ABWE also trains some for ministry in one of the three Bible institutes. As a result, churches have been planted and are now led by national leadership.
Yesterday, after the completion of a mission’s meeting, we had dinner and then a reception for a retiring missionary couple. They left a legacy of years of faithful service for missionary kids, Togo nationals, and fellow missionaries. While we always have more work to do, the gospel has effectively penetrated Togo, Africa. But, we always have another generation to reach, unsaved family and friends, and the potential for Togo church missions to reach out in other areas as well.
During the send off for the retiring missionary last night, the doctor on call received a phone call. Three men left – four hours later they had completed five surgeries. Babies were delivered and lives were saved.
My internet connection requires me to quit in a hurry.
God's best,
Jerry
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