Observations After 3 Weeks

For my first blog post, I thought it was only appropriate that I share about what the Mozambique Initiative has been up to for my three weeks so far with the Annual Conference. I've got three main observations and thoughts to share.

1) The Mozambique Initiative (MI) is strong. I've already visited La Croix, Manchester, the Gathering, and I will schedule more as soon as I get back from Mozambique (look for a blog-post tomorrow). In three short weeks, here is a taste of what has been accomplished through your generosity: I've received and approved safe water well applications in the West Inhambane Province. Four wells have been completed (they were approved before I began) and I've shared pictures of these communities on Facebook. We're also working on approving 5 new microfinance projects varying from a banana agriculture project to refinishing a house for rental property. 

I've found our churches and supporters supportive of the MI mission, but our brothers and sisters in Mozambique are dedicated both individually and collectively to sharing the Gospel in partnership with us.

2) ​​​There are a lot of people who are interested in Mozambique in Missouri. I knew within our denomination that I would find advocates, but I'm learning of other organizations who are vested in seeing Mozambique grow in faith and community. Whether meeting with Jon Reinagel of the Equip Mozambique organization, being introduced to leaders of other mission organizations such as Future Leadership Foundation and the Global Leadership Summit or dreaming about future partnering opportunities with college students -- I'm learning it is a very small world -- and that is super cool.

3) ​My priorities in the coming year will be include relationship building, improving the capacity of sharing stories, connecting people, working on ways to ease the process of going on a VIM trip to Mozambique. MI is strong -- but there is always room for growth. Together with God, each of you, and our Mozambican friends I look forward to the opportunity in working to fulfill the Great Commission and transform our communities in Missouri and Mozambique toward the image of Christ.

Please feel free to contact me at cstevenson@moumethodist.org and I look forward to connecting with each of you and hearing your Mozambique stories.
In Christ,
Craig​​

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