Message from Morgenster

Dear all,

We are here, Morgenster Mission, Zimbabwe. Eight days ago we have had a blessed commission service in Leiden and then a good trip from The Netherlands to Zimbabwe. God blessed us in many ways. You can read about it below.

It is what we expected, yet different. We arrived in a house that was left by our predecessors in December. They left some important first things and as I, Mark, was able to bring stuff along in the past months, it is quite livable. After two days we even had a filled fridge, a nice bed, hot water and internet! But what makes it strange is that you cannot start working (no permits) and have to deal with new situations like personnel, power cuts, responding to new names (MaiLennard for Annemarie), no transport (the nice 4wheel drive is in the garage, but some paperwork needs to be done first). It is good, but also feels strange that you don't know how the processes are. Along the way, we find out what we need to fill in and where. Situations change.

But what is very good is the attitude of the people. Neighbors come and welcome us, people show us the way etc. And the house is great, as is the garden and the environment.

Reading through the goodbye letters from the tutor group and college made me realize again how wonderful the time was. For those from All Nations, thanks for your prayers and lovely goodbye messages. We miss you.

Update on the application

After arriving in Zimbabwe, we found out that the approval of the first application was just a first step. Annemarie is now officially allowed to apply for a job in Zimbabwe. So the next steps are getting support letters from some parties and the immigration paperwork. We are happy being in the country, as it is a beautiful country. But is also feels weird to be at the mission, but not being able to work. We are learning patience, and meanwhile are enjoying our house and garden.

Lennard has his own swing.

more recent clips can be found on the Lennard section

Residence application approved

Yesterday we received a very short email with the following line:

"We have received communication from MDPC that your application was approved. You can visit MPDC offices for more information."

This of course is very good news. This Friday we will visit the MDPC office to find out what the next steps will be. Again we have experienced that the Lord provides.