From the Superintendent's DESK

John Musgrave and his wife, Rodica, are in Southern Africa representing the Portland world headquarters at various locations.

They arrived in Botswana on Friday, September 23, and the next morning went to the headquarters campground in Gaborone for the dining hall dedication. The service was held in the tabernacle and began with a choir special followed by congregational singing and prayer. During the announcements, Lordick Motshidisi, the Botswana Country Leader, welcomed everyone, including Oniyas Gumbo, the Southern Africa District Superintendent, and his wife, Evelyn. Then a brief history was given of the dining hall project, which began on October 19, 2018.    

Before the dedication message, Brother John extended greetings on my behalf for the world headquarters and from Pastor Dave Lambert for the Portland congregation. Then he opened with text from Proverbs 24:3, “Through wisdom is an house builded; and by understanding it is established.” Following his remarks, everyone proceeded outdoors to the dining hall directly behind the tabernacle and a ribbon-cutting ceremony was held. It included a dedication prayer, the cutting of the ribbon, and a short message of thanksgiving delivered by Brother Oniyas. In addition, everyone received a tour of the new building, which was nicely done.

The events of the day continued with a Bible teaching held in the Children’s Hall. It began with an orchestra prelude, congregational singing, and opening prayer. The title of the teaching was “Entire Sanctification: The Hub of the Gospel.” A good altar service followed. 

In the afternoon, a water baptismal service was held for twenty-eight candidates. Then the ordinances of the Lord’s Supper and Foot Washing were observed. Brother John reported that the men had a wonderful time of fellowship and really enjoyed the singing afterward.

On Sunday, the morning worship service at the Gaborone headquarters began with a greeting presented by the Sunday school children to the Musgraves and Gumbos. The students marched into the tabernacle singing “This Little Light of Mine” and then “Praise Him, All Ye Little Children.” Several in the group recited greetings and they all sang “Happy Welcome” before marching out again.

The local president was in attendance, and he also gave a welcome to the guests. The service continued with an orchestra prelude followed by the choir singing beautifully “Crown Him.” Then the congregation sang “It Is Well with My Soul.” Brother Gumbo led in prayer and then after the announcements, three ministers were ordained.

The sermon was taken from 2 Kings 2:1-3 and focused on “Following God’s Instructions.” There was a good response at the altars when the invitation to pray was given. In addition, several went forward to be prayed for. Afterward, everyone gathered outside to take photos and enjoy a time of fellowship.

In the afternoon, the Musgraves, Gumbos, and Motshidisis spent time at the Chobe Wildlife Park before going to visit a newer branch location near Kasane, Botswana. Though there was no electricity, they held a short meeting with congregational singing, prayer, and an exhortation. Brother John said there was a sweet spirit on the service.     

The Musgraves and Gumbos are now on their way to Mozambique where they will spend a few days before continuing to South Africa for the camp meeting which begins Sunday, October 2.