Family, Friends, and Jon,

Can you believe it? We made it all the way to South Africa!! At some points in the trip, it really didn’t feel like we would ever get here! Traveling was long, but we had so many fun experiences-walking around Madrid, Hannah and I “getting separated from the group” (not lost) in Lisbon, and almost having to get vaccinated for yellow fever in Angola.

South Africa is beautiful and amazing. We went directly to the Zak’s church from the airport since we had some delays at the airport because of our lost luggage. The singing at the service by the African nationals was beautiful and all of us tried our best to sing or clap along. They were kind enough to translate the songs which they sang in different languages for us.

Today was more relaxing in the morning, since we were all exhausted from the days of travel earlier. We spent most of the day getting to know the Zak family a little better. I played with several of the kids throughout the day and most of the team played “Balderzak” – a Zak family original, I will have to teach you it, Joe.

The Zak family was in need of a car after a recent accident which left one of their cars was totaled. Today a woman called and offered them one of her cars, to borrow and eventually buy for a very reasonable price. That was a huge answer to prayer!

Please keep praying for our team! I miss you all and am looking forward to seeing you all in a few weeks!

-Rebecca Manion