From the Superintendent's DESK

I arrived in Benin on Wednesday, August 31, with Isaac Adigun, the Western and Central Africa (WECA) District Superintendent, and delegates from France and Nigeria. Since then, our team has been joined by representatives of the Congo, Côte d'Ivoire, Liberia, Mali, Niger, and Togo.

That evening, we went to the headquarters church on Jericho Road in Cotonou for a brief reception. A group of fifty or sixty smiling saints greeted us by waving flags, including Marcellin Kploka, the pastor and Benin Country Leader. Then two young girls representing the Sunday school students presented us with flowers. Inside, the reception proceeded with congregational singing and prayer before introductions and greetings. After the concluding prayer, and time of prayer at the altars, we were given a tour of the church, which was impressive.

On Thursday morning, our team of delegates went to the Porto-Novo church for a service. Again, we were welcomed by a large crowd and presented with bouquets by two young girls. The service began with a beautiful children’s program, including a greeting, recitation, and energetic choir songs with hand motions. The service continued with congregational singing and prayer, introductions, and the message delivered by the pastor, Maurice Tanmakpi. After the closing prayer and the following prayer service, there was time for photos and a tour of the church.      

In the evening, we returned to the Jericho church for a meeting with the Benin Board of Trustees, management coordinators, and delegates from French-speaking countries. We enjoyed an informative hour with good fellowship.

We traveled to the Abomey-Calavi church on Friday morning. Once again, a warm welcome awaited us. To start the service, a large youth choir and orchestra presented several numbers, which sounded amazing. Then the congregation had an opportunity to sing “Revive Us Again” before the opening prayer. A welcome address was given by the pastor, Anatole Dacro, and followed by introductions. After the exhortation and closing prayer, we concluded this visit with prayer at the altars, a tour, and group photos.

In the evening, a youth workers' meeting was held at the Jericho church. It was well-attended and concluded with a question-and-answer session. There was much participation among this enthusiastic group of young people.        

We are scheduled to remain in Benin through Monday, with tomorrow set aside for meeting with Sunday school teachers. We have been very impressed with the work here, and pray the Lord continues to bless it.