Harbick September 2021

“May he be like rain that falls on the mown grass, like showers that water the earth” (Psalm 72:6).

Greetings from Nigeria!

God has been gracious and merciful to us here in Plateau State.

In Pateau State there is approximately seven months of no rain followed by five to six months of rain. The rains have come and have turned the brown of dry season into lush green grass and vegetation.

Lush vegetation on south side of campus planted last year and nourished with the rains

We have been able to employ many widows from the community to plant new grass and to do the tending of the old by removing the unwanted grasses. They are so appreciative for the opportunity to earn funds to help support their families.

Newly planted grasses on the north side around the RICE complex as well as those planted last year

We also have ten of our Rafiki School students (nine of our orphans) in the midst of their national exit exams and the test for entry into university. They are studying diligently, and we trust will have the results God has for them. We are praying for a graduation ceremony on September 4 (photos will be in the next newsletter).

We had an application day for parents of new students to register intent for their children. We have places for two new three-year-old class of forty total children, and a sprinkling of openings in the other grades. Over 250 names were submitted. We invited them to come for a screening to match their abilities with our openings and have been able to fill many of the lower grades and a few in the upper level.

The RICE Teachers College Program continues to produce new teachers as we graduated seven on July 29. They have ended well as they have endured the many delays and closures that we have had over the past four years for them.

Graduates Chun, Yossy, Blessing, Joseph, Angela, Na’omi, and Aben Hegen

We were also able to admit eighteen new RICE students at the beginning of the term. It is amazing to watch them adapt to new standards and procedures and expectations. Their maturing process as young adults, growing in God’s Word and becoming classically trained teachers, is a privilege to watch knowing that we have played a part in that wonderful process.

Praises:

God’s protection and provision as the unrest surrounds us and cost of living skyrockets.

Wonderful staff and students who love learning and helping around the Village.

Prayer:

Wisdom for Nigeria’s leaders as costs for everything continue to rise.

Discernment of God’s plan for all of our students/graduates and for us to follow what He reveals to us.

Your prayers have been felt and so appreciated. Safety here is found in the center of His will.

Thank you!

Please click here for a printer friendly version of this newsletter.