This month I have the privelage of serving at Kedesh boys orphange. The orphange is located just outside of Beira, the second largest city in Mozambique, on the central coast of the country, and I must say, it’s pretty unreal. This is the Africa I had been waiting for. Bustling markets, women walking with baskets on their heads, and as an added bonus we also get to experience the sparkling beaches of Mozambique.
Before we left South Africa I researched our ministry and location a little bit. I saw pictures from past volunteers, one of which had a caption saying the boys had water fights everyday, instigated by the homes founder, John. I instantly knew I was going to love this place!
When we arrived at Kedesh after 23 hours if straight bus travel capping off a 3 day bus journey we were greeted by smiling, waving boys while Regina Spektor music blasted from speakers in the house. After we were all unloaded and the bus had rolled away, John, gave us a briefing on what to expect for the month.
First, and most important, Beira is in the middle of a severe drought. The rains are almost two months late. Crops are failing and people are walking miles and miles to get water.
Here at Kedesh we are pretty blessed to have two wells, but soon even those will dry up. Right now our water usage is relegated to cooking, drinking and toilet flushing. We can take one bucket shower a week, and frankly I would feel guilty to take any more.
Every now and again we’ll see storm clouds on the horizon but when they reach us we’re either left dry or we’re given a small sprinkle. Just enough to dust the grass, but not nearly enough to soak in.
According to John we need a real downpour. Rain so strong we wouldn’t even be able to see the water tower 50 feet away. So we pray everyday for God to bring rain. Without it the situation in Beira will only become more dire.
So I send out this prayer request to you. Pray for heavy rain to come to Beira. Pray that the crops won’t fail, and that people will have enough to drink.
