Mwanza, Tanzania Thur. Sept. 8, 2006 AM (local)
Dear Friends & Family,Mwanza means the first or Beginning, appropriate enough seeing this is our first crusade in this part of the world. We are a small team of 3 and as with many firsts we have had to learn a few things as we go. The piece of sound equipment we brought with us was unexpectedly held up for "ransom" at the custom's office in Arusha. After a day of negotiating we were able to redeem it for a mere $180 about half the amount this certain official was asking for. Other logistical & permit problems caused us to miss our 1st 2 days of crusade times. A lost, misplaced or stolen wallet (I don't know which) of this certain crusade team member to the tune of approx. $800 USD also caused us grief (since most of $ were crusade funds.This person should be horse whipped for being so careless) But God is indeed good, the Jesus Film showings that we are sponsoring saw 50 adults come to Christ each of the two nights. Our first crusade night also saw 68 come to Christ, with one woman testifying of a healing of her legs. This more then makes up for our long tiring trip here, the inconveniences, hassles & loss of mere money, knowing that eternal destinies are being effected.
300 miles to the southwest of here is a little place called Ujiji. It was here that those famous words were uttered; "Dr. Livingston I presume" by the NY Tribune journalist Stanley about 150 years ago. It was David Livingston who first preached the Gospel all through this region as he explored & mapped central Africa. What a privilege to be able to lend our hand to the work he started so many years ago and possible be an answer to the prayers uttered by many "Give us Africa for Christ"
Our 2nd night of crusade saw another 70 come to Christ and several more testify of healings. One woman who had respiratory problems, which reg. doctors couldn't help so she had gone to the local witch doctor, (similar pattern to what we saw in Guaymas, Mexico) was marvelously delivered. The local church we are working with is diligently taking the names of the new converts for follow up & instruction. Since one of our team, Pastor Angel Cintron, had been here last year there is probably more going right then going wrong, seeing relationships & ground work was already established.
We are are expecting the next 2 days of the cusade to be even more powerful as momentum builds. Please be in prayer that God moves mightily confirming his word with signs and wonders. That a people are raised up here to testify of God's Goodness & Mercy. That God anoints Pastor Chris Ludwig as he brings forth the messages. That all of us remain in good health while ministering here.
I will go to a school today to minister to some of the many students here. So with guitar in hand & my friend "Saul" the puppet in tow it looks like another exciting day serving our Lord. As always we covet your prayers & intercessions & thank you in advance for your obedience.
God's Best & Blessings to you,In Christ Russ Rutler
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