Settling into Abidjan

One view of Abidjan

Hello everyone,

It has been some time since I have done a blog. We have been trying to get into a regular routine (not really possible) and everything is going well. I was sick my first night in the city and spent most of the next day in the emergency room, the doctor ultimately treated me for malaria but they were not for sure the exact cause of my sickness. Many of you want to know what an emergency room visit is like in Africa but I will say they took good care of me and I was thankful in my distress that the hospital was here. You would not find this type of medical care in much of West Africa but Abidjan is very modern for the region.

The past couple of weeks, Teresa and I have been setting up house for the long term outlook. We are in a nice and spacious home and are using furniture, ect, from the mission board that they have allowed us to use. We will soon have everything replaced with our own stuff. Our teammates have been showing us around and teaching us all about Abidjan. Mike and Heather have two children and arrived one year ago, we will join them in what they are learning and doing in urban church planting. They have also just finished their one year of French learning and will soon start learning a second African language which we will also do after one year of learning French. As you can see, much of our first three year term is about learning the city, the people, the culture, and the language. That seems like alot to learn but all of this will be saturated with opportunities to share the gospel.

We hope and pray that all of you had a great Christmas fellowship with family and friends and again want you to know that we covet and appreciate your prayers on our behalf. I know many of you have given to the Lottie Moon offering this season which makes such an impact on our lives and ministry in Africa. We are able to live, drive, eat, set up our home, educate our daughter, and share Christ because of your giving. Thank you for this support that we see everyday and also for the spiritual support through your prayers that make so much difference.

I will blog again soon and give more insight into a typical day here in Abidjan. Have a great week.

Blessings,

Jon