Where to start? It seemed like an eternity before we FINALLY arrived in South Africa, but so far it has exceeded expectations. The Zaks have been wonderful hosts, and with 22 people staying here right now, it brings a whole new meaning to the term “full house!”

I’ll let the others describe some of the things we’ve done as a group, but one thing that has really impacted me so far is the people of Malas. Malas is a nearby compound where refugees from Zimbabwe have been living for several years. I went with Kevin Zak to pick up some things from a shopping mall (which was identical to an American mall) and on the way we stopped at Malas to visit with some of the people. It gave me a whole new understanding of what poverty means. I met some of the men there, and Kevin invited them to come to a showing of the USA vs. Italy soccer game at Central Baptist Church in Pretoria (which neighbors Onderstepoort where we are). 4 of the men came! I was able to watch the game with Raymond, Telmo, Richard, and Francis and get to know them a little bit. I’m looking forward to going to Malas again soon and ministering with the rest of the team.

We still don’t have our luggage—please pray it arrives soon!

- Eric Johnson