Hello Everyone:
As most of you know, Fred and I were unable to return to South Sudan on January 9 as we had planned due to some conflict in Juba and further north. After a very brief skirmish in Yei, things returned peaceful and are becoming normal once again. During this time our concern was for the children. We were able to stay in contact with the staff at Captain's House and GRACE Home so we had frequent updates. The head guard at GRACE instructed the children about procedures should they hear gunfire. They practiced that and then carried on with life as usual. It was good to know that the children felt safe enough to continue playing. Justus made sure there was plenty of food and made arrangements for evacuation with UN should that become necessary. As a child, Justus was on the run due to the war so he knew best what to do for the children. Once again, I saw God's hand in bringing Justus to GRACE Home.
On a lighter note, GRACE Home celebrated their first Christmas together. Through donations from some missionaries in Yei, the children got new clothes and some toys. They had a Christmas tree (from the same donors) and bought some decorations for the dining room. They enjoyed a big meal at church then another one with the family at GRACE. The children sang at church, played with their toys, and had a great time. They celebrated the New Year with another big meal and a church service.
This week Justus is registering the children for school. Several will start school for the first time and the others will be going to a new school. I would imagine that this would cause some angst, so please keep them in your prayers as they start this new phase. Also, keep in prayer the two young ones who will be left behind as the others go to school. I'm sure they will miss their siblings.
Fred and I tentatively plan to leave here on February 6 and return to Yei on the 8th. Please keep us in your prayers as we travel, South Sudan government, and the children as they start school.
GRACE to all,
Libby
