,ambia MQSSQnqer

Volume 4
News from Dean, Judy, Jimmy and Cindy Davis
Zambia Christian Mission
P.O. Box 873
Mdola, Zambia
AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST" IN CENTRAL AFRICA. (ii Corinthians 5;20)
February 1970
2bea^ ui QiiAlii.
Number 1
Because this is our first letter since Christmas, we want to begin by thanking all of you for
the many cords and gifts you sent to make it one of the finest we have ever enjoyed. We could
never tell you how great is our appreciotion for the spirit of love which reached out across the
miles from you to us. May God bless you for your kindness and thoughtfulness.
The construction of the Lubuto church building was completed in time for the congregation to
have their first service there Christmas Eve. The joy of the people, as they sang about the birth
of God's "unspeakable gift," and at the same time contemplated the gift made possible by you
wonderful Christians, would have to be seen and shared to be fully appreciated. We are devoting
most of this issue to pictures of the new building and the people who worship there.
We just recently returned from a brief vacation in Rhodesia where we visited with several of
he missionaries. We are all well and very busy, Jim and Cindy in their school work and activities
while we are trying to get done all that needs doing before our departure time in August.
Please pray with us that this year, and this new decade, will be filled with opportunities and
activities which will carry the message
of salvation to lost multitudes around the
world. Make the winning of lost souls the
burning desire of your heart and God will
open the door to joys you have never
known.
Yours Because of Jesus
Dean, Judy, Jim and Cindy
Lubuto Church of Christ
The Labnto Chareh
IN THE BUILDING
In the school classroom for 18 months
I
U.
The happy day when the founda
tion was started.
..'f
Preaching the Word.
The choir singing
'A
*fThe letter below is an expression of
appreciation to all of you who support the
work of Christ here.)
Dear Christians in America:
We have great pleasure to thank you for
the good spirit you have done in helping us
build such a wonderful church here in Zambia,
Africa. The church is really beautifully made
and it is the first class of all. We think many
people will be very surprised at its style.
We hove said this because of the place to
baptize which was built within the church.
Other churches do not have this.
^ We the members of the Church of Christ
at Lubuto are the lucky ones, and we shall
always be praying to God for what you hove
done for the people of Zambia as a whole,
and other countries also.
We thank you again, and lastly we pass
a warm happy greeting to you and may the
Living God bless you all.
Yours faithfully,
Leaders of the
_ _ Lubuto Church of Christ
Confr/bufions for Luhufo Building
Over and above the regular monthly
contributions received for our work in Zambia
some individuals and churches sent contribu
tions designated for the Lubuto building.
Following is a listing of these along with the
^^mount received as of December. We want to
3y a special THANKS to these who hove
helped in a special way.
Mrs. E. M. Watts, Atlanta, Ga.
Woodland Christian Service Camp,
(Denver Sizemore, Dean)
Level Green Christian Church,
Paint Lick, Ky.
Mr. & Mrs. Clark Rowland, J.B.C,
Kimberlin Heights, Tenn.
Capella Church of Christ, King, N.C.
Cooperstown Christian Church,
Mt. Sterling, III.
Jefferson Church of Christ,
Rural Hall, N.C.
King Church of Christ, King, N.C.
$ 10.00
252.00
103.50
25.00
25.00
697.94
280.50
400.00
1,050.00
Poplar Springs Church of Christ,
King, N.C
Wildie Christian Church, Wi Idie, Ky.
Woodlown Christian Church,
Knoxville, Tenn.,
The Lubuto men
The Lubuto women
The Davises
Hi,
At Christmas time I wrote
some thoughts about Chri stmos
and I thought you would like
to read them.
Christmos
Christmas is a thrilling
time because Christ was
born for us.
His mother, Mary, was very
kind to him, just like our
mothers ore today.
Christmas is a thrilling
time. Just think of Christ
our King.
Just think of Christ our
Lord who saved us a
from sin.
Love,
Cindy Davis
Age 10
Cindy with Shanda and
Robin Delaney and Julianne
Bel).
The year of 1970 is just beginning, and the
^ doys ahead of us ore blank, waiting for us to
llltfltl every possible opportunity to serve. As
we look back to 1969 it is easy to see many
things vdiich were left undone. This next year
TQ brings many thoughts to our mind of things we
wish to do before we come home for our fur-
^ lough in August. 1hope to begin a Bible class
for the teen-age girls of the Lubuto congrega
tion. We hove many young girls, and they need help and guidance
the same as teenagers anywhere. Theyare outgoing and friendly,
and eager to learn. The problem of illegitimate children here is
appalling, and I hope through Christian teaching we maybe able
to help these young girls. Please remember this work in your
prayers. We are looking forward to seeing you in this year. May-
God guide and bless you as you work for Him in 1970.
FIELD ADDRESS:
P.O. Box 873
Ndola, Zambia, Africa
FORWARDING AGENTS:
Mr. and Mrs. Jack Patterson
Route 1
King, North Carolina 27021
MISSION SERVICES
BOX 368
JOLIET, ILLINOIS 60434
Address Correction Requested
^mbia MesgQnqer
News from Dean, Judy, Jimmy and Cindy Davis
Zambia Christian Mission
P.O. Box 873
Ndolo, Zambia
AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST" IN CENTRAL AFRICA. (tl Corinthians 5:20)
Volume 4 April 1970 Number 2
^n^iendi m Qh/uAi.
Last Lord's Day we had the wonderful experience of
attending the dedication service for the new building at
Lubuto. The part of the service that touched me most was the
sermon by Robinson Mumba. In the August 1968 Zambia
Niessenger Robinson was pictured with some other young men
who were baptized into Christ. At that time what he knew of
the Scriptures and the Christian way of life was next to
nothing, but from the first day he has been a determined stu
dent. I remember his first stammering attempts at preaching
and how I prayed that the Holy Spirit would fill him and bless
his efforts.
When Robinson was chosen by the others as Dedication
^^peaker, I admit I was a little apprehensive, as I had not considered him the best speaker among the group.
But the others, acting under the leadership of the Holy Spirit, knew far better than I who would do the best
job.
i can't express how I felt when he began his sermon on THE CHURCH, using Matt. 16:1318 as his
text. He forcefully and logically from the Scriptures portrayed Christ as the Head of the Church and the
Church as the body that receives its strength, instruction and guidance from the infallible Head who dwells,
not in Rome, but by the right hand of God. As he skillfully turned to I Cor. 12:1227, Col. 1:18, Eph.
1:22-23, I Cor. 1:10-13 and others, expounding each passage to make a point about our wonderful Lord and
His Church, I thought, "Who could possibly have improved upon this message which the Holy Spirit has led
him to preach?" When he had finished, all present knew what the Church that worshiped in the new building
at Lubuto believes and practices.
I said a prayer of thanks for Robinson and for the way God has been able to use him in the leadership of
this young congregation. I also asked God to help me in the future to see each man's potential, not by out
ward appearance, but through the power of the Holy Spirit working in the life.
The interest that you show by your prayers and support for the evangelization of Zambia makes victories
like this possible. May God continually reward you for your faithfulness to Him.
Robinson Mumba Preaching at Dedica
tion Service.
Yours Because of Jesus,
Dean
LUBUTO CHURCH DEDICATED
When the Lubuto congregation had the
Dedication and official opening of their new
building they invited the other Churches of
Christ on the Copperbelt to attend. Although
three of the congregations couldn't be repre
sented due to transportation difficulties, there
were still 224 people present. When we remem
ber that less than four years ago we had no
churches on the entire Copperbelt, this repre
sentation of Christians gives us great cause
for rejoicing.

224 Present lor DedicaLion

The entire program was planned by the
Lubuto leaders. Along with Robinson Mumba,
they asked Vernon Oakley, miss ionary in Kitwe,
to bring a dedication message, which was also
appreciated greatly by everyone present. There
was enthusiastic congregational singing as
well as messages in song presented by three
different choirs. Following the dedication mes
sages, three of the Lubuto leaders led in
prayers of dedication, setting the building
apart for God's use.
It was a thrilling and inspirational after
noon for all who attended. On several occa
sions during the service thanks was expressed
for the help that American Christians had given
to make possible the work here in Zambia.
nr" .
Fellowship Following the Service
Additional Contributions
For Lubuto Building
in the February issue of the Messenger a
listing was made ofthose who had sent special
offerings, over and above their regular monthly
giving, to help with the building of the Lubuto
building. Below is a list of additional funds
that have come in since that issue went to
Mrs. Jessie Falkenberry, King, N.C. $5
Capella Church of Christ, King, N.C. $302
Wildie Christian Church, Wildie, Ky. $70 '
The total amount that was given for the
building in this special woy was $6,026. Again
we express our thanks to all those who helped.
COMMUNION TRAYS RECEIVED
We want to thank the Pinedale Church of
Christ, Winston-Salem, N.C., and the Leaksville
Christian Church, Eden, N.C., for responding
to our request for used communion troys which
could be put bock into service for Christ in
Zambia. These congregations each sent a set
of beautiful trays and one was presented to the
Lubuto congregation and the other was pre
sented to the Chlfubu congregation. The Chris
tians in both these congregations have
expressed how happy they are to have such
(^^ice trays for their communion services.
Chifubu Men with "New" Communion Trays
REVIVAL
May 4-10 the Lubuto Church of Christ will
be havi ng their first REVIVAL. Brother Bruce
"^mmerman, missionary in Chidamoyo, Rhodesia,
nasbeen invited todo the preaching. Song lead
ing and messages in song will be provided by
members of the local congregation.
This will be a new experience for these
Christians because up to now they hove never
known anything about revivals or what they are
supposed to be.
We are praying that God will use this meet
ing to get many new people interested and won
by the saving power of Jesus Christ.
PLEASE MAKE A SPECIAL PRAYER
REQUEST TO YOUR CONGREGATION IN
BEHALF OF THIS REVIVAL, and we are ask
ing YOU to pray every day for its success.
I
.-ami
Dear Friends in America,
It was my birthday on 21 Feb. It was my
third birthday here and my last one this term.
I II be glad when we get back to America in
August of this year.
I am in the seventh grade and our subjects
are English, Arithmetic, Composition, Science,
Social Studies, General Knowledge, Mental
Arithmetic and Humanism. Humanism Is a phi
losophy being developed in Zambia by President
Kenneth David Kaunda. The purpose of Human
ism is to make the people understand that all
men are equal. We have tests that put us in a
higher group or a lower one. We also have
Physical Training and many sports.
I take part in many track meets and swim
ming galas. My last track meet will be on 25
July, just two days before we leave for America.
See You Soon,
J/M
FURLOUGH
August 1970 - July 1971
For Speaking Engagements
write us Airmail
P.O. Box 873
Ndola, Zambia, Africa ^ ^Ndolo
larg
August, 1970 draws nearer each day. As you
read this issue of the Zambia Messenger, it is just
four months until we arrive back in the States for
our first furlough. These months are already filled
with activities as we make preparations for our fur
lough year which is already filling rapidly with
speaking engagements.
Dean and I both have added extra teaching
classes for the next four months, which we hope
will strengthen the Christians here so they will be
able to maintain the work during our absence. I
began a class with the teen-age girls at Lubuto the
first of February. These girls are friendly, responsive and eager to learn. 1 teach
this class in English, as the girls all speak and understand English reasonably
well. It is so much easier for me, and I feel closer to them when we all speak the
same language. English has been adopted as the national language, and the
schools teach in English from the fifth grade. The other day I asked one girl if
she understood me and she answered, "Of course; I am in grade seven!".
Jim and Cindy are busy in their school and sports activities. This term Jim
is in grade seven and Cindy grade five, but they will not finish these grades
before we come home. They are anxious to go to an American school again.
If my picture looks a little strange It is because I have just started wearing
contact lenses. Everyone tells me I don't look like myself, but in time I hope
everyone will get used to me without glasses! In Zambia we sometimes have to
wait for things. These contacts are one example. They were my 1968 Christmas
present from Dean and I finally got them Feb. 16, 1970!
We are looking forward to seeing everyone again soon! Please pray for the
congregations at Chifubu and Lubuto that they may grow in Spirit and number.
FIELD ADDRESS:
P.O. Box 873
Ndola, Zambio, Africa
MISSION SERVICES
BOX 368
JOLIET, ILLINOIS 60434
Address Correction Requested
Dean and Cindy
FORWARDING AGENTS:
Mr. and Mrs. Jack Patterson
Route 1
King, North Carolina 27021
^mbla Maggenqer
News from Dean, Judy, Jimmy and Cindy Davis
Zambia Christian Mission
P.O. Box 873
Ndoia, Zambia
AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST" IN CENTRAL AFRICA, (ii Corinthians 5:20)
Volume 4 June 1970 Number 3
^eoA m Qh/uAi:
Baptizing into
Jesus Christ
We have just concluded the first revival meeting of the Lubuto Church of
Christ, and the Inspiration and joy received will be felt by the Church for a
long time to come. We had the pleasure of having the Bruce Ammerman family
from Chidamoyo Mission in Rhodesia with us for the week and Bruce did an
outstanding job of preaching. The fellowship we enjoyed with this family of
faithful workers was tremendous.
As is true anywhere, there Is no way to measure the total success and good
that comes from a revival meeting, but already we have seen some very encour
aging results at Lubuto. The members have gained enthusiasm and were greatly
strengthened spiritually and doctrinally by the preaching of God's Word.
Average attendance for the week was 81 and there were six decisions for
Christ. One of the primary reasons for the meeting was to interest and attract
new people to the Church. We were thrilled with the large number of first
timers who attended, most of whom are promising prospects for the near future.
We want to thank you for your prayers for the revival and the work in Zambia
as a whole, and we want to encourage you to pray for world evangelism every
where. Without the presence and power of God, all the money, time and work
expended would be in vain. Your prayers for God's guidance may make the dif
ference between failure and success in the life of some Christian worker
endeavoring to win lost souls.
May God bless your labors for Him in the corner of the vineyard where you
work.
Yours Because of Jesus,
Dean
Chifubu Congregation Growing
The Chifubu Church
On different occasions we have asked for
special prayer for the Chifubu congregation
which had had a struggle since its beginning
a little over a year ago. For some reason the
vitality and growth witnessed in other areas
has eluded the work at Chifubu.
We are grateful for your prayers, and are
witnessing the answer to them as the congre-
Chifubu leader, J. Kalabala and his lamily
gation hos gained new enthusiasm and deter
mination. The church has slowly begun to
grow and the men ore accepting more respon
sibility. They have assured us that they can
and will carry on the work in our absence and
say they will have grown sufficiently by our
return in 1971 to merit the starting of a build
ing (at present they continue to meet in a
school room).
Please continue to pray for these Chris
tians, that their witness will be felt in an^^
even greater way in the months ond years
to come.
TESTIMONY
by Robinson Mumba
For many years I spent most of my time
just drinking beer. I would work hard and
then spend all my pay for drinking. After my
money was finished, I would find that I h
no food in my house and I would be very
hungry. Because I had no money I would go
to my friends and get them to buy me more
beer so I would not be hungry. Then my work
would be bad and 1 would be sacked and have
to look for another job. But 1 continued drink
ing daily. I had no clothes to put on. Some
times I would just buy one pair of trousers
and one shirt a year. Because of my drinking,
Iwas always facing many troubles.
In 1968 I was going from the beer hall
with some friends. We were all drunk. On the
way home some enemies from the beer hall
attacked me. The ones I thought were my
friends ran and left me. I wos beaten very
badly and cut on the head with a sharp knife
and left for dead. Someone found me and took
me to the hospital where I nearlydied because
of the trouble beer caused me.
I then began thinking and realizing that
without God I should have already died. I
wanted to change my life so these troubles
would leave me. When I left the hospital I
began attending church services being held
in Mr. Dovis' yard. There I learned about
Jesus Christ and how He could save me from
^y sins. I believed in Jesus Christ and was
baptized into Him. Since that time I have
never been drinking any more beer and all the
troubles that came from drinking came to an
end. Since that time 1 have taken a wife and
have a very happy home. We hove enough food
every day and I can buy clothes for myself
and my family. I am very happy that now I am
in the right way. I want to tell everyone what
Jesus can do for them so they can find the
happiness that I have.
Personal Evangelism
Dear Friends,
months till we come
be very happy to come
back, but I will be sad "'"'tw X
to leave here. I want |
to see all my friends
there, and yet I don't
want to leave my ;
friends here. ^
I can't wait to go bock to on American
school. I like the school here but I think
I prefer the schools in America. It is fun
thinking about coming bock and making
plans for the trip.
I like it here in Zambia and have lots
of fun here. Ndolo is very nice and so is
all of the Copperbelt were we live.
Bye for now,
Cindy
'U
FURLOUGH
August 1970 - July 1971
After July 20
Address All Correspondence
to
R. R. n
King, North Corolino 27021
Recently we had o leadership conference at Lubuto
^ which lasted all day. Church leaders from the congregations
T' I ^ in the Copperbelt came early in the morning for the day of
S* singing, teaching, fellowship and food! Yes, the ladies pre-
^ pared the noon meal, just os you ladies in America prepare
the food for men's meetings. But our Christian women in
Africa have no shiny, stainless steel kitchens in the church
basement or hall - our cooking was done over an open fire
^ under a canvas shelter in the church yard. The ladies
decided a chicken and tomato dish would be the best for the
V... number of men expected and the week before gave me the
list of required supplies: tenchickens, two pounds of onions,
three cans of tomatoes, salt, cooking oil, and of course 50 pounds of mealie meal for the nshima.
We were expecting around 50 men, end there would be at least 15 women, for they all wanted to come.
On Friday I cut up the chickens so that Soturday morning they would be ready to cook. I wo"^
anxious to see this chicken prepared as I had heard so much about it. 1 expected it to be a stew,
but it was more like our barbequed chicken. I had one very large pot and they cooked the chicken
in this, browning it first in oil then adding onions and tomatoes and letting it cook about one hour.
Then about an hour before lunchtime they began boiling water for the nsh/mo. Whenthe water boils
they add the mealie (corn) meol until it makes a stiff paste-like meal. This is turned out on a plate
and is eaten with the fingers. The Africans breok off a piece and dip it into whatever meat or
vegetable they happened to be having. On this day we hod a big plate of nshima for each mon and a
piece of chicken with the tomato sauce was dipped on top. Everyone, including we Americans,
enjoyed it very much.
The women enjoyed their day of cooking and fellowship as much as the men, and nearly every
one had a baby tied on her back all day. Their "stove" was a few concrete blocks with a charcoal
fire, but this is how they cook every day. In the afternoon we all gathered under the shelter and
sang hymns until the men had finished their classes.
Needless to say, we were all hot, tired and dirty at the close of the service, but it was an
experience I wish everyone could share.
NATIONAL MISSIONARY CONVENTION
NOVEMBER 24-27
CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, ILL.
^mbia MessQnqer
News from Dean, Judy, Jim and Cindy Davis
IZ
Zambia Christian Mission
P.O. Box 873
Ndola, Zambia
'AMBASSADORS FOR CHRIST" IN CENTRAL AFRICA. (II Corinthians 5:20)
Volume 4 Septemper 1970 Number 4
NOW ON FURLOUGH
/
r
Jim, Dean, Cindy, Judy
AUGUST 1970 - JULY 1971
ra 7
Some of the Chifubu men.
After services at Chifubu
.*
Elders and deacons at Lubuto with Dean.
After church at Lubuto.
1 Wh
Ordaininp Elders at Lubuto.
Chifubu Church at worship.
Baptism at Chifubu.
P
Dean preaching at Lubuto.
Saying "good-bye" to some Christians at
the airport.
NEWS IN BRIEF
Just before leaving Zambia Charlie Delaney,
Jim and Dean made a two-week survey of the
Northern Province, probably Zambia's largest
unevangelized area. Theytraveled over 1,500 miles
by truck and motorcycle and found on open door to
evongelistic opportunities. While on furlough Dean
will be seeking recruits for this area.
The lastservice we attended in Zambiawas the
ordination of elders and deacons at the Lubuto
church. The church has been doing well under local
leadership but continues to need your prayers as
they combat the forces of Satan which are constantly
at work.
On our lost Sunday with the Chifubu congrega
tion they had the lorgestattendance in their hi story.
A prominent man with great leadership potential
was baptized into Christ, and the congregation
surprised us with a farewell party at which they
presented us with a giftand served cokes and cake.
Please continue to pray for the Chifubu church.
V/hile on furlough we will be raising funds to help
them build a much-needed building of their own.
We were very pleased that 15 or 20 Christians
from Lubuto and Chifubu, as well as fellow workers,
came to the airport to bid us good-bye when we left
for the States. We had Scripture and prayer with
them just before boarding the plane.
Charlie and Betty Delaney, our dear friends and
capable workers for Christ, will be giving oversite
to the work that we hove left behind. Don't forget
to pray for them and all of God's servants around
the world.
All of us were happy to get back to the good
ole U.S.A. We had an enjoyable time visiting with
our parents and relatives before beginning our
speaking schedule, it has also been a blessing to
meet again withChristians who have made possible
our work in Zambia.
FURLOUGH ADDRESS
King, NC 27021
f
V" -^.1,
Women preparing inshimaaX Leader- Dinner with the Delaneys the day we Judy with some women from Lubuto
ship Conference. left Zambia.
NATIONAL MISSIONARY CONVENTION
NOVEMBER 24-27
CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, ILL.
'"To., '"-'l
^aid
ZAMBI
CHRISTIAN
ISSION
M
Dear Friend of Zambia Missions:
This is the second time the Zambia Christian Church-
Church of Christ missionaries hove presented an overall
picture of their mission work. Although each missionary
reports to his own sponsoring churches, we thought you would
enjoy a complete view of the evangelistic work in Zambia.
That is the purpose of the 1970 ANNUAL.
In Zambia our purpose, plainly stated, is to establish
churches after the New Testament pattern, to educate and
train a qualified leadership. This little magazine will help
to show you how we are accomplishing this task.
Thank you for your keen interest in missions in Zambia.
Happy reading.
Yours for Christ in Zambia,
Missionaries of the Zambia
Christian Mission
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Annual Committee Outside Back Cover
Building A Place to Worship by Dean Davis ....Pages 10 and 11
Christian Literature by Bill Brant Pages 2 and 3
Directory of Missionaries Outside Back Cover
Furlough by Don Mechem Pages 4 and 5
History of Zambia by Sandy Sinclair Page 14
I Was Blind . . . Now I Can See by Vernon Oakley Page 1
Missionaries on Furlough in 1970 Page 5
Mission Family Picture Album Page 16
New Mission Field Survey by Leroy Randall Page 15
Strong Churches, Trained Leaders
by Charles Delaney Pages 12 and 13
Village Church by Leroy Randall Page 11
Youth in Zambia by Charles Bell Pages 6 and 7
Zambia Missions in Pictures Pages 8 and 9
I
life-.. I
^ ^icwC , . . ^ See/
to^ ^e ^Uitet
*
9 ,|
5
v'-C'-l
>r,- - - -
Blind Christians Read the Braille Bible
The late afternoon was wearing toward
evening, and sitting along the way, con
spicuous among the moving crowds, was a
blind beggar. Jesus was looking compas
sionately on the blind beggar and his love
and mercy radiated toward the one in need.
Jesus proved on this occasion and many
others that he was the light of the world,
the light sent to lighten the darkness.
No, Jesus did not pass physically through
the Masaiti Blind Village near Luanshya,
Zambia, but spiritually the blind in that
place can now see. Physically they are the
same but the Gospel of Christ has rescued
many from a deeper spiritual blindness and
let a more glorious light shine into their
souls.
Missionary work in a blind village
in Zambia
By Vernon Oakley
In February 1969 our family began a
work among the blind people. It has been
such an inspiration to see them grow and
enjoy God's manifold blessings.
The blind village is made up of about
thirty five families and no church what
soever in the village. Some were seeking
spiritual light but had to walk two or three
miles for a church service. God has blessed
His work among the blind and church
attendance will overage around fifty each
Lord's Day. The people are now meeting
in their own building which was finished
just before the rains in November 1969. We
have conducted leadership training classes
among the men and some show great po
tential as future church leaders. We have
placed the Braille New Testament in the
hands of the villagers. A ladies work has
started and around twenty ladies attend
each week. We do pray for an indigenous
work among the Zambian blind people.
I remember the words of the blind man in
John 9:25: "One thing I know, that, where
as I was blind, now I see." One of the vil
lagers said, "Before you came I was walk
ing in darkness, now I am walking in the
light." The blind have received spiritual
sight because of the LIGHT OF THE WORLD.
^ IM'
Church Group
in the Blind Village
/I;---
Communlcafion
A Means of CommunicafJon Communicafion
Mission Printer
BILL BRANT
Prepares Bible
School Lessons
for Distribution
By William M. Brani
Perhaps the most difficult aspect of the missionaries'
endeavor is the task itself "TO COMMUNICATE." If
we are to do the work of teaching all nations, and
teaching them to observe all things whatsoever Christ
has commanded us, which was included in The Great
Commission, we must be able to communicate.
With the rare exception, preaching is still the way
of communication which brings people to Christ. Here
at Zambia Christian Press, we are not trying to replace
the Gospel preacher with Christian literature. Our
aim is to provide materials which will help the mis
sionary, evangelist, minister, Bible school teacher and
Christian worker do his task in a more effective way.
The materials we produce vary depending on the
need. Some are designed to help the people come
to know Jesus, others help the Christian in living the
Christian life, and others are of a nature to teach
Bible knowledge. Along with Christian literature, we
also do general mission printing such as stationery,
forms, certificates, newsletters and advertising leaflets.
Apart from the general mission print
ing, we ore constantly aware of the
importance of communicating. This
task is much more difficult than most
people would suppose. Although a
knowledge of six main languages and
English makes it possible to converse
with nearly every Zombian, there are
actually 73 tribes and 30 different
dialects.
The language is only one of the
hurdles which we must cross in suc
cessful communication. There is the
hurdle of customs which makes it dif
ficult to illustrate the literature. An
other hurdle which will be with us for
some time is the vast degrees of liter
acy, from the illiterate to the university
graduate. Although there are others,
these are the predominate handicaps
which we are striving daily to over
come.
We thank God for this task and op
portunity to help increase His Kingdom.
We also thank God for you who have
helped to make it possible for our be
ing here. To help us further, please
pray for this ministry. Pray with us
that God will bless us with wisdom and
guidance in producing these materials
and that the Spirit will accompany
these materials as they are received
by the Zambions.
A Family waits as "Amai" (Mother) pre
pares a meal.
Communicafion Communicafion Communicafion Communicafi
1. Japheth Kalombo translating into a Zambian
language.
2. After final typing, Bill Brant lays out the copy.
Here he gets special advice from daughter
Leslie Ruth.
3. Copy is then photographed and negative is
used in burning offset plates.
4. The actual printing is just 1 of 7 steps in pro
ducing Christian literature.
5. Hot from the press, materials are then folded,
assembled, packaged and dispatched to anxious
missionaries and Bible School teachers.
6. Children are proud of their Bible School take-
home papers,
7. Mrs. Mildred Pace hands out tracts printed by
the Zambia Christian Press.
,.Vr
mil- I
. . . By Don Mechem
frl
1
-1
What does a missionary do on furlough? What all
is involved? We will attempt to answer these ques
tions and more in the next few paragraphs.
Plans for a furlough begin months previous to the
departure date. These plans will vary according to
the circumstances of each missionary. There is, how
ever, a basic pattern.
DON MECHEM
1. Prepcsrations for departure: This means
everything from making sure passport and
immigration papers are in order, to moun
tains of correspondence arranging speaking
dates and informing various publications
that the missionary is coming home. Ser
mons for Faith - Promise meetings must be
written, displays must be prepared, slide
picture programs must be organized, per
sonal effects must be packed for storage
or packed for shipment to the U.S., plus a
multitude of last minute details . . . most
important of which is bringing the mis
sion work to a satisfactory close.
Drying fish for future consumption.
2. The trip home: The Zambia mission
ary may travel by sea or by air. The
choice is his. The reservations must be
made early and paid in advance. Inter
national travel, whether by sea or by air
is expensive and often exhausts mission
funds. Never-the-less, international travel is
always exciting.
3. Home in the U.S.A.: Setting foot on
American soil after a considerable absence
is a real thrill. Upon arrival in the U.S.,
the missionary must set about making a
home for a brief 12 month stay. The chil
dren must be enrolled in school, the wife
must learn the secrets of using a different
oven, and the husband must see to a myriad
of details concerning an already full itiner
ary. Getting settled in is no easy task, but
the busy missionary, used to making adjust
ments, soon gets used to the strangely
familiar American way of life.
4. Travel in the U.S.: This consists of
thousands of miles of travel, visiting and re
porting to the churches and individuals who
have so faithfully supported the mission
work during the past term. Other events will
fit into the schedule. Youth camps, conven
tions, church retreats, missionary rallies,
Bible Colleges, Faith- Promise meetings and
others. During these travels the missionary
will visit relatives, renew old friendships,
cmd meet many new Christian brothers and
sisters. He will travel anywhere from
10,000 to 25,000 miles in a short 12 months.
Whether traveling the exhausting miles, or
staying home praying, the faithful wife and
children of the missionary will be behind
him 100%. And by the time the year of
furlough is complete all will be ready to
return to the mission field.
5. Preparing to leave America: The de
tails of packing, shipping, getting immigra
tion and immunization papers in order, con
firming travel plans take much time. All of
this must be done while drawing the speak
ing itinerary to a close.
6. The trip back to Zambia: Having re
viewed his calling as a missionary, and
having counted the cost, the anxious mis
sionary bids goodbye to family and friends
and returns to the fields white unto harvest.
7. Back to work in Zambia: Of course
there will be anxious missionaries awaiting
the returning family at the airport. How
ever, the greatest thing that awaits the mis
sionary is the tremendous need. The need
for the Gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ. The
missionary, as quickly as he gets his family
settled in, must return to the streets of the
city, the villages of the bush, the people of
the land with the good news that Jesus
Christ, the Son of God has died for their sin.
Christian
Mission Centers
in Zambia
Zambia Christian
Missionaries on
Furlough In 1970
BRANT, William
Departing Zambia January 1970
Contact by writing:
Mr. and Mrs. Don Sherer
5358 Marsailles-Galion Road East
Marion, Ohio 43302
DAVIS, Dean
Departing Zambia August 1970
Contact by writing:
Mr. and Mrs. Jack Patterson
R.R. 1
King, North Carolina
MECHEM, Don
Returning to Zambia June 1970
Contact by writing:
Mr. Don Mechem
1104 N.W. 5th St.
Faribault, Minnesota 55021
RANDALL, Leroy
Departing Zambia April 1970
Contact by writing:
Mrs. Leonard Hopfe
P. O. Box 134
Austin, Minnesota 55912
RHODES I A
nganyika
MA LAW I
IN ZAMBIA
WHAT ARE THEY REALLY LIKE?
By Charles Bell
WHAT ARE THEY?
The youth of today occupy the news
media, the thoughts of most adults and on
occasion the administration building of the
local college. They are vocal and some
times vociferous. They are impatient. They
are idealistic (but according to a wide va
riety of idealisms). They comprise almost
half the population in most countries. Those
who are in the news usually represent a
small segment of youthdom, but they reflect
the obvious changes in the majority. Are
they good or bad? Right or wrong?
IN ZAMBIA, WHAT ARE YOUTH
REALLY LIKE?
In 1970 we find that over 80% of the popu
lation are still rural dwellers. Their ways
are still very traditional, until they enter
high school. After this age they enter the
atmosphere which will change and prepare
them for work in the urban areas, or study
in colleges. Now they are in a new world
of change.
The new phase is rapid continuous
change, and it is the hallmark of Africa
in the 70's. To the casual eye or to the
newcomer the rural areas still look like
traditional Africa, and the cities are mere
islands of modernity in the traditional sea.
But there are forces changing the youth of
Zambia. Schools are the most obvious;
better communication by road and rail;
radio, literature and religion. Jobs in the
cities and commercial farming bring the host
of changes along with the money they earn.
There are two forces which direct the
changes for the Zambion young people. The
centripetal force of the cities which draws
so many of tliem into the new life. There
is plenty of evidence of this in each new
housing area being built, and in every
shanty town arising even faster outside the
city limits. Less obvious is the centrifugal
force coming from the cities. It throws out
new cultural patterns new way of dress,
new foods, modern rock music, all "brought
home" by magazines, radio, TV and per
sonal contact.
YOUTH IN THE MAINSTREAM
OF CHANGE
The youth are in the mainstream of this
change. They are often reminded that the
nation needs their education, skills and
work to build the new nation. Many of
them are conscious of this call and take it
seriously. To many hope of a high standard
of living and more money is a strong mo
tivating force. The young men and women
are experiencing the rocket thrust from the
traditional to the modern society. It's a
rough ride from one world to another. There
is confusion, inexperience of many new
factors. The generation gap is real. Mod-
1 'r
Ringing the church bell, calling the villagers
to worship.
ern ways emphasize individualism, private
initiative, private property, and private in
come. Traditional society emphasizes the
community and common ownership. Each
system has its merits, but in confrontations
there is friction.
T7|
9
V'
' M S"/,
*- -n m
Zcmbian young people lead in vernacular
Bible School classes at the Livingstone Chris
tian Church.
The present generation of young people
in Zambia must handle the traffic of time,
as the merging streams of cultures meet at
the intersection of change. A heavy burden
for such a young generation.
WHAT ARE CHRISTIAN YOUTH
REALLY LIKE?
Where does a better way begin? We
believe it begins at the New Birth. The
youth we have worked with, the Christians,
what ore they really like? Young people
like to joke, argue, socialize. The youth
of Matero church (in Lusaka) do these things.
One of their major topics is Christ and the
church. They want to see progress. This
has been their major topic for over a year
and a half now. They can be heard dis
cussing and arguing points related to the
church and preaching. Many lives have
iMSl
been changed in the process. After a bap
tismal service they are particularly joyous.
To them a Christian victory is the greatest
All their experiences are not joyful. They
live under crowded conditions. Their ability
to read English and to study on their own
has produced some fine preachers, who for
a year kept a young congregation meeting
faithfully. New ones were brought to Christ.
It was a heavy load for young men but
they performed well. (On one occasion they
withstood an older man who attempted to
lead while engaged in immorality). Today
these young men are highly respected by
their community.
In Zambia the young city people like cars,
mod clothes and noisy nightclubs . . . very
human. The Matero Church youth like wit
nessing, studying the scriptures and preach
ing . . . very Christian.
The old and the nev/. The human and the
spiritual. The youth in Zambia and around
the world are the big key to the change.
May God guide the youth of Zambia to a
truly great future.
Tv/o Zambian young people.
ZAMBIA
MISSION
IN PICTURES
i
1. Church leaders prepare their own food
at a leadership training conference.
2. Charles Delaney prays with a new con
vert.
3. Dean Davis receives a gift from, a village
lady. Tradition holds that visitors are
to be given gifts.
4. The last day at a church leaders clinic.
Everybody gets in the picture.
5. A ladies group studies the Bible.
6. Ronald Sapp helps in the construction of
a shelter for worship.
AFRICA
r-
7. Evangelist David Sibanda baptizes a
young mother.
8. A Bible School class at the Livingstone
Christian Church.
9. A church leader assists missionary Bill
Brant in counting the offering.
i I
i
^ 'Place la .
We know that man may worship God crt
any time in any place. From the begin-
ing men have had designated places where
they met and worshipped God. The places
hove varied from the simplest to the most
elaborate. It is the desire of man to hove
a place set aside where he can meet with
God's people to worship and pay respect to
the creator and sustainer of life.
Zambians are no different. They need
a place to gather for "fellowship, the break
ing of bread and prayers." The meeting
places in Zambia can be placed into three
groups as follows:
The new Lubufo Church of Christ, Dean
Davis began this congregation in 1968.
1. CHURCHES IN THE BUSH. The build
ings here are very simple structures built
from poles, mud and grass. The benches
ore logs and the pulpit a post. The bap
tistry is the nearest stream, or a large hole
dug near a well. Occasionally a church
in the bush vrill mold and burn bricks to
construct a more permanent structure. In
the bush there are no building codes or
regulations so the buildings are built ac
cording to the initiative and ability of the
Christians.
2. CHURCHES IN PERMANENT SETTLE
MENTS. Since permanent settlements ore
outside city limits there ore no specifica
tions. Since it is a permanent housing area
the buildings must be of quality building
materials and have some aesthetic quality.
Furnishings may be very simple or more
When no building is avail
able, Christians just worship
under the sky. This is the
Libala Church of Christ at wor
ship.
4
'W\ t
Libala Church members begin a temporary
shelter for worship.
n'
mf'.
The completed shelter. Ronald Sapp is the
missionary in this area.
it AA
\
A church building in a permanent settle
ment. Vernon Oakley began this work in a
blind village near Luanshya. The building
is now complete.
own building. It is here where the mis
sionary can help tremendously. Most mis
sionaries who have congregations in the
cities have directed the church construc
tion, thereby saving the high expense of a
contractor. He also assists with the pur
chase of building supplies.
The design of the building is optional and
will vary according to needs and available
funds. Because of its location, a baptistry
and functional, but attractive furnishings
are necessary. Restroom and toilet facilities
A Village Church
By LEROY RANDALL
A Siory in Picfures .. ,
Poles for Walls . . .
Poles for Rafters . . .
Grass for a Roof , , .
Dedication day at a new church in Don
Mechem's area. Noiice the temporary plastic
roof.
mined by the type of building needed and
the ability of the congregation to help them
selves. Once completed, the maintenance
of the building is the responsibility of the
congregation.
The ultimate goal is the same in the bush
as in the city ... to hcnre a place dedicated
where born again Christians can meet and
praise God who has redeemed them through
His dear Son.
m
STRONG CHURCHES - TRAINED LEADERS - STRONG CHURCHES -
i
Charles Deianey teaches a "How To" Gloss
at an area Church Leadership Conlerence.
"The things that thou hast heard of me
among many witnesses, the same commit
thou to faithful men, who shall be able to
teach others also." 2 Timothy 2:2
Well trained leadership within each local
congregation is essential if a strong indigen
ous church is to be established. For too
many years the missionary has been behind
the wheel doing the driving and making
most of the decisions while the indigenous
leaders just go along for the ride.
This picture is rapidly changing in free
Africa. The nationals are now choosing
their own governments and throwing off the
chains of colonialism and the feeling of
racial inferiority. Because of this change,
the missionaries of the Zambia Mission have
changed their approach to mission work.
The present theory in practice in Zambia
ri j
Church leaders on the Copperbelt listen to
a lesson about the Lord's Supper.
PREaChnG The wO*D.
'I' ^
! 1
M.
After discussing ways to make a baptistry,
Leroy Randall teaches church leaders how to
Baptize.
is to put the responsibility of congregational
leadership into the hands of the nationals
as quickly as possible.
The indigenous leaders may not do every
thing in the same manner as the missionary,
but that is not always bad. Given enough
time and sufficient training a Zambian can
do as good if not better than the missionary.
The greatest tribute to a missionary is
given when he leaves the congregation on
its own, and the people, under the direction
of trained local leaders, continue to preach,
baptize and teach.
Strong churches mean trained leaders.
Trained leaders mean strong churches.
Much of the time of the Zambian missionary
is spent in leadership training. This takes
the form of conferences, clinics and classes
on various subjects. A lot of time is spent
in personal counseling of African leaders.
Training conferences, clinics and classes are
planned throughout the yea r. Subjects
TRAINED LEADERS - STRONG CHURCHES - TRAINED LEADERS -
By Charles Delaney
Church leaders line up out
side their temporary sleeping
quarters. At large conferences
host villages build temporary
sleeping houses for those who
come great distances.
5
'm
'r<J
Missionary Don Mechem and church leaders
at Chilundi village.
taught include "how to" classes on preach
ing, praying and conducting a worship
service. Classes on Stewardship, Bible
knowledge and others are also given.
Please pray for the missionary and the
local leaders. Please pray that the Holy
Spirit will guide the work of leadership train
ing in Zambia.
Church leader puts his good training to use
on a new convert.
;4 2.ciici^
Diverse forces have been molding and
influencing life in Zambia for over 70 years.
These include tribal influences, the coming
of the white man, and the new independent
African nationalism of the last few years.
rff
-5.0
v\
V \
.lid r
Ronald Sopp goes to his knees to greet
a respected village headman.
TRIBAL INFLUENCES
Zambia's present boundaries were drawn
on the map of Africa at the Berlin Confer
ence in 1885. The dignitaries attending that
for off convention did not consider the diver
sity of tribes and languages that was present
in what was then called Northern Rhodesia.
There ore 73 different tribes in Zambia rang
ing from large tribes of many thousands to
smaller tribes of only a few thousand. Many
of Zambia's tribes used to war with each
other. Tribalism is still felt, but one of the
By Sandy Sinclair
A can full of termites Delicious, so the
Africans soy.
goals of the present government is to play
down tribal differences. Zambia's national
motto: "One Zambia One Nation" re
flects this hope.
More than 90% of Zambia's people are
living in what can best be described as tra
ditional African living. Most of the people
yield strong allegiance to tribal leaders.
Many tribal traditions are kept by the vil
lagers. The government is even encourag
ing the people to maintain their old customs
and cultures.
THE INFLUENCE OF THE WHITE MAN
The Copper industry was the first to open
up present day Zambia. In the early 1900's
the v.rhite man came to mine copper. He
The village supermarket.
L'A- . ^
A village carpenter making what will be
a very acceptable folding chair.
employed thousands of Africans. By 1920
a large African population had become per
manently resident on the "copperbelt" and
their descendents became the first non-tradi
tional Africans whose life style became in
fluenced by the white man.
The railways and the copper mines ar
rived. So did the British. The British
brought their monetary system, their lan
guage and legal system, and their form of
government. V/ith them also came military
and police control over warring tribes.
With the British also came education
which was mostly the result of Christian mis
sionaries. About 1912 two Rhodesian Afri
cans came into Zambia to preach the Gos-
-Ir'
Basketweaving ... a village craft and
pastime.
An elevated chicken pen that keeps other
animals and snakes from the eggs.
pel. These men were the earliest preachers
of the Restoration movement. They were
preaching and baptizing in what is today
known as Kalomo district.
AFRICAN NATIONALISM
During the late 1950s a new phenomena
began to occur. The rise of African nation
alism. A young man named Kenneth D.
Kaunda began to rally the African people
as he bicycled across the country seeking
political support. Some died in the struggle
for independence. Today the United Na
tional Independence Party led by Dr.
Kaunda is in power. Political independence
was granted October 24, 1964. President
Kaunda has led the country since independ-
With the motto "One Zambia One
Nation" this new independent country be
gins a big task of developing a modern
African society. A philosophy of Human
ism has been developed to bridge the gap
between the traditional tribal culture and
modern society.
The missionaries' task in Zambia is to
place the Gospel in the hands of the people.
Then let the church of Jesus Christ under
the guidance of the Holy Spirit develop
to best suit the needs of the Zambian.
Travel by train . . . the cheapest way.
'picCel Scnv-eef
LEROY RANDALL
In September, 1968, Brother Charles Bell
and I made a missionary survey of the
African country of Malawi, on Zambia's
eastern border. The survey trip was under
taken for two main reasons: (1) We wished
to ascertain the possibility of on American
Church of Christ (Christian Church) mission
ary entering the country; (2) We wished
to gather information in Malawi that might
be useful iri the conduct of our Zambion mis
sionary program.
Almost as important as the actual survey
was the preparation for it before we left
Zambia. This involved establishment of
contact with men already in Malawi whom
we judged to be in position of influence or
possessors of information that might be use
ful to our cause. These men we would inter
view once we were in the country.
Another important port of the preparation
was the development of the interview out
line we would use with the men. Through
the outline we wished to answer such ques
tions as the Malawian government's attitude
toward new missions and missionaries, the
potential responsiveness of the country's
people to the gospel, the extent of Christian
Infiltration into the country already done,
and the location of likely fields of endeavor.
Out of such information we hoped to de
velop a "mission opportunity profile" for
Malawi, and to be in a position to help any
By Leroy Randall
one considering the country as a field for
his own missionary work.
The survey began on Wednesday, Sep
tember 11, with our arrival by air in Blon-
tyre, Malawi's largest city. The next nine
days were filled with some of the most hectic
and interesting activity I have ever partici
pated in. While it is impossible to give any
detail here to the events that occurred dur
ing that time, the following should be suffi
cient for the purpose of this article: In our
efforts to learn about Malawi we travelled
in excess of 800 miles within the country,
purchased and picked up (when it was free)
all the printed material we could carry, used
a considerable amount of film, and inter
viewed 8 men who were either missionaries
or well acquainted with Malawian mission
situation and opportunity. Five of the inter
views were taped.
Mr. Bell and I flew back to Zambia on
September 20. The material we had gath
ered would take several months to evaluate
and organize. The final report would fill 41
single spaced typewritten foolscap-size
pages. With the report, we were able to
send back to the States an informative slide
program, the taped interviews, public rela
tions materials, mops, visa forms, etc.
all highly useful to a man hoping to go to
Malawi as a missionary.
We were deeply gratified by the results
of the Malawi survey, and struck by the
potential of the survey principle as a tool
for opening new mission fields. As a matter
of fact, a man now planning to go to Malawi
as the first missionary of our churches to
that country has already been able to use
the material provided.
Future surveys, more extensive than the
work done in Malawi, are now being
planned. God willing, you may be hearing
about them soon.
'peuiUC^f 'Pcetttne /H^utti
BRANT
Bill Vonnie
Jackie Leslie
BELL
Charles Julianne
Todd Mary Frances
kitweo
ndolao
r y,
OAKLEY
Cynlhia Cheri
Vernon Douglas
Kathryn
LUSAKA
LIVINGSTONE
SAPP
David Mike
Amy Ronald Jenny
SINCLAIR
Charlotte Michelle
Sandy Wayne
Richard Michael
PACE
Mrs. Mildred
DAVIS
Judy Dean
Cindy Jimmy
RANDALL
Gayle Leroy
Max II Shannon
DELANEY
Betty Charles
Robin Shanda
MECHEM
Donald Linda
Shelly Tim
DIRECTORY OF MISSIONARIES
FIELD ADDRESS
BELL, CHARLES I.
Mrs. Mary Frances, Todd and lulianne
P. O. Box 2733
Lusaka, Zambio
BRANT, WILLIAM
Mrs. Jackie, Vonnie and Leslie
P. O. Box 2280
Kitwe, Zambia
DAVIS, L. DEAN
Mrs. Judy, Jim and Cindy
P. O. Box 873
Ndola, Zambia
DELANEY, CHARLES
Mrs. Betty, Shanda and Robin
P. O. Box 2191
Ndola, Zambia
MECHEM, E. E. (DON)
Mrs. Linda, Shelly and Tim
P. O. Box 1805
Lusaka, Zambia
OAKLEY, VERNON L
Mrs. Kathryn, Cheri, Cynthia and Doug
P. O. Box 2591
Kitwe, Zambia
PACE, MRS. MILDRED
P. O. Box 2280
Kitwe, Zambia
RANDALL, LEROY
Mrs. Gayle, Shannon and Max II
P. O. Box 2184
Lusaka, Zambia
SAPP, RONALD D.
Mrs. Amy, David, Jenny and Mike
P. O. Box 128
Livingstone, Zambia
SINCLAIR, A. G.
Mrs. Charlotte, Michael, Richard,
Wayne and Michelle
P. O. Box 160
Livingstone, Zambia
FORWARDING AGENT
LORNA GABHART
P. O. Box 1201
Cincinnati, Ohio 45201
MR. and MRS. DON SHERER
5358 Marsailles-Galion Road East
Marion, Ohio 43302
MR. and MRS. JACK PATTERSON
R.R. 1
King, North Carolina 27021
MR. and MRS. JERRY POLLARD
902 E. Rodney Dr.
Cape Girardeau, Missouri 63701
E. E. MECHEM
1104 N.W. 5th St.
Fariboult, Minnesota 55021
MR. and MRS. CHARLES D. WALTS
P. O. Box 145
Georgetown, Indiana 47122
MR. and MRS. RICHARD KEATTS
409 W. Memorial Drive
Muncie, Indiana 47302
MRS. LEONARD HOPFE
P. O. Box 134
Austin, Minnesota 55912
DR. and MRS. GEORGE ATKINSON
P. O. Box 328
Norton, Kansas 67654
MISS VIRGINIA BEDDOW
P. O. Box 9543
Lansing, Michigan 48909
1970 ANNUAL Commiffee . .
RONALD D. SAPP, Chairman-Editor
CHARLES DELANEY
BILL BRANT
Afrioa