Journey For The One

Fun Culture Lesson - Mozambique Jan 17, 2010

2010-01-18T11:22:00.000-08:00

Hello!

It has been a good start to another good year! This past year was a year of restoration to me. I saw some of the promises and dreams God put into my heart come to reality. I can hardly believe that 2009 is over and we are already into 2010. Many blessings happened in 2009 and I am excited about the next steps I take into 2010. I have so many things to be thankful for. In January 2009 Samuel and I met for the first time. This last year was the year that I finally was able to start discipling our boys according to the vision that God had put into my heart and see them fly in their giftings and grow in their love for Jesus. 2009 was also the year that great healing came to my heart after having a difficult 2008. It was this last year that I feel I have really been able to start to fly into some dreams and promises that God had given me. Though some very difficult things occurred this past year I learned a lot through them and my heart is full of gratitude to God and so many of you who prayed with me through these difficult situations. Our God is faithful and He is the giver of Joy!!

Christmas

We had a great Christmas here in Dondo. On Christmas morning all of the boys, missionaries and many visitors got together and read the birth of Jesus and had communion together. As usual we had our normal lunch of chicken with rice, salad, fries, and pop. Afterwards the boys opened their gifts which is always so fun to watch and then we ate Jesus’ birthday cake that Samuel and I had made.

Culture Lesson For today: Field Mice Story Continued

In talking with my Mom a while back she mentioned how much people enjoyed the pictures and story that I sent out with children in the field in Tica chasing after field mice when the tractor was tilling the ground. I had mentioned that the children where chasing after the mice to catch them and eat them. After going to the field again I thought that it would be fun to share with you the rest of the story about the field mice. Please keep in mind that I am sure there are things about our culture which Mozambiquens would find strange….such as putting clothes on our dogs.

Now for the rest of the story on the mice…..

Before Christmas Samuel and I took a group of around 35 youth to the field in Tica to till the ground and plant corn. During our time there we worked hard and got really dirty. The sun was very intense. So along with the dirt we were sweaty and red from getting burnt (even after putting on 50 spf). We were all busily working away at tilling the ground and planting seed when all of a sudden we hear shouting arise out of the laughing and chattering that was taking place. It was one of the older boys. He was yelling “mouse, mouse!” in Sena as a group of them scattered after a brown field mouse. After killing it with their hoe they found another one, and then another one. It happened that they had apparently come across the hole of a family of 5 mice. So after seeing this (for the first time for Samuel) we asked what they were going to do with them in which they happily replied cook them and eat them. I had never had the opportunity to see how they cook mouse here until this day. What they do is take the freshly killed mouse and put it on a bed of hot charcoal to singe the hair. After this is finished they rub the hair off and take the insides of the mouse out so they can put it back on the fire to cook a bit more before eating it. They said that they actually don’t have to go through all of that and could eat it without taking the insides out or hair off, but it wasn’t as good apparently. It was a fun experience for Samuel and I. So now you know how they cook and eat “rat” here. Remember this is not to knock them down, but to have fun sharing with you a piece of life here.

Things are going very well here. This past month we got 4 more long term missionaries who will be working here on the base and a couple who will be here for 5 months to help out. God is good and He is doing good things.

The boys are getting ready to start school again after being on their summer break. We have 6 of our older boys who will be starting at a vocational school as they continue in their high school education. These 6 boys will be moving off of the base to live closer to the school. We have been in the process of preparing them for this transition. I’m excited for them and feel almost like a mom who is seeing her child go off to college (but it’s a bit different).

God’s blessings upon you and abundant love to cover you today!!

Ashlee

Blessed Generation - Tica trip - November 2009

2009-11-29T13:53:00.000-08:00

Happy belated Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving day was a busy day of work for me here so I celebrated it yesterday (Saturday) with the other missionaries on base. Samuel and I cooked the turkey with stuffing and pumpkin pie. It turned out yummy.

Last week the rains finally came which began the planting season here in Central Mozambique. On Friday Samuel and I left early in the morning and headed to Tica with about 45 youth to plant and work in the field that is for the group Blessed Generation (a group of kids at a near by church that are orphaned or in at risk situations that I have worked with). It was a long day of hard work, but the joy of completion feels good. Many other youth came just to help including one girl from another church.

After tilling the ground and planting corn we had a great feast of beans, rice and juice. I bought tons of veggies to cook in the beans because I wanted the meal to be full of nutrition. Most of the kids from Blessed Generation don't get that good of a meal. There was even enough for them to have seconds on beans.....

Esau, who has been helping with the organization of this project, said that we will need to go back to Tica sometime in December to clean the field of weeds.

Thank you so much to those who have been contributing financially and in prayer.

God is good all of the time!!!

Ashlee

Fun on the swings Oct 1, 2009

2009-11-22T15:18:00.001-08:00

Miracles and Fun in Mozambique - Sept 21, 2009

2009-09-23T06:34:00.000-07:00

Hello.

Here is a quick update on the happenings of life here. But before I get into that I want to let you know that the finances for Samuel to come to Mozambique still have not come in. Please keep this in prayer and thought.

Outreach with boys & miracles:

I just finished with a full, but good weekend. On Saturday I took 15 of the boys on outreach to Mafambisse which is about a 20 minute drive away. We had a great time. The people of that community were very encouraged. They tasted and saw God’s Kingdom touch earth. The boys presented two dramas that were very powerful. I could feel God’s power in that place as we ministered. I felt such a joy as I watched our boys step out and minister. I felt a fire as I ministered God’s truth. I believe many lives were touched by Jesus’ presence. There was one lady who I spoke with when we arrived who had been experiencing problems with her eyes. At the end of our time there this same woman came to me and told me that something happened with her eyes…they felt better. Another woman said the back pain that she was experiencing had left. The greatest miracle was the many men, women and children who wanted to know Jesus. The pastor of the area along with many people asked when we were going to come back. It was great as we did not minister inside of a church, but we were outside in the front yard of a man named Peter’s house who God had touched to allow us to use his land.

Children’s Church:

For the past two Sundays I have been doing a special children’s church for the kids of the community and our kids. I have felt that I wanted to do this for quite a long time, but never felt the release to start until a couple of weeks ago. The first Sunday I had about 100 kids. The second Sunday I had around 50 children (it was raining so the numbers were down). The kids are very responsive and I feel like they are eating up everything that I give to them. The first Sunday I taught them that God is in a good mood, which led into salvation. At the end I asked who wanted to know Jesus as their best friend and almost every child raised their hand. What was neat about this was that I felt it was very sincere. You see, sometimes here in Africa they raise their hand or answer a call to repentance just because of the person who is giving the message (a white person). But these kids know me and on this day their hearts where open and prepared. I can see in their eyes that they are hungry and that the Holy Spirit is working in their hearts. Some of the boys who are part of my discipleship class have been helping me on Sundays. It has been great seeing them step out.

Boy’s Birthday Party:

Once again this year we celebrated the boy’s birthdays. This year we did something different….we took them to a pool. They had a blast. I made chocolate cake for them, Janet (another long term missionary and friend that is at our base right now with her husband Jeff) brought bananas, we bought sodas and brought lots of balloons for them to inflate and play with. They had such a great time. To make the celebration a bit smaller and more intimate, Janet and I took two different groups on different weekends. It was so great seeing them all laugh so much and having so much fun. One visitor made a comment that he had not seen one of our boys (Domingos Costa) smile so much. It was great!

Thank you again for your loving support financially, in prayer and encouragement. Please remember to keep Samuel and I in prayer as we continue to seek God’s plan for our lives and the steps to come.

With gratitude,
Ashlee

Some Good News! - September 1, 2009

2009-09-03T09:06:00.000-07:00

Hello.

I hope this email finds you full of abundant life and joy today because Father God is in love with you. What a great Heavenly Father we have.

Some good news is that Joanel is doing very well with his recent transition of living here with us. It filled my heart with warmth as I saw him running through my front yard today smiling and laughing as he chased after Nando (one of our other boys). He is adjusting to life here and fitting in really well.

I was told that his dad was let out of prison on Saturday and had already come to the base to try and take him back home, but our guards and pastor told him that he could not and needed to talk to the police about the situation. We now need to find out what we can do to help keep Joanel safe. He has not left the center yet since he came except to go to a funeral and cut his hair. We are looking into the possibility of reintegrating him back to a family member who lives in Maputo (Mozambique's capitol city in the South).

Thank you for all of your prayers and support during this difficult time.

God bless you abundantly.

Jesus wins!!
Ashlee

Adventures in Africa - August 15

2009-08-27T16:49:00.000-07:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PmxBPXUhd8M

Joanel's Story - Aug 26, 2009

2009-08-27T08:05:00.000-07:00

Hello.

First I want to extend my gratitude to so many of you for your prayers and emails of care about the recent death of Domingos. I'm having a hard time processing through this, but I know God is going to walk me through it. Thank you so much for your prayers for all of us here.

I’m emailing to make you aware of another situation that has been taking place here. I'm asking for prayer for a 13 year old boy named Joanel who came to us for help this past Sunday. Joanel was afraid to go home because of his father's violent temper. His father would go home each night drunk and beat him horribly. Saturday night he had a knife in his hand and threatened to kill Joanel if he came back home. One of workers went to the father’s house to see if what the young boy was saying was true. Upon his arrival at the father’s house he witnessed the violent rage of this man towards his son and heard his threats to kill him. The police were contacted and the father was taken to prison. After going through Social Services we have received Joanel with open arms. He is now living here with us on our base. He is a precious young boy who needs lots of unconditional love and a place of security.

Our hearts are to see him be completely made whole again and hopefully be able to reconnect him with family that lives in Maputo.

Thank you for your care and love for me and for the people here in Africa.

With love and a heart of gratitude,
Ashlee

ONE HARD DAY - PLEASE PRAY - AUG 25-2009

2009-08-27T08:03:00.000-07:00

Hello from Mozambique.
At about 5:45 this morning we lost one of our children. Domingos Fernando died of cerebral malaria. It has been a rough day and one that I am still processing through. I've never had to deal with death like this head on. Our boys, along with the whole base, are grieving greatly, but one comfort is that we know Domingos is having a great time with Jesus.
Please keep us in prayer. I really need it.
Ashlee

Busy with changes - August 22, 2009

2009-08-22T08:32:00.000-07:00

Hello from Mozambique!

So much has been happening since my return in May. It has been a time of great change with a change in leadership and new long-term missionaries here to help us as well as some short-term help for the summer months. The dynamics of our expanding team has been great. We have had many visiting teams come and bless us with their talents and hearts of service. Each one has been a joy and blessing to us and to the people we work with.

Busy with Changes….
I have been very busy in the area of our children’s department. We have a team of three of us, Joseph, Carla and myself, which consist of the leadership team for our children’s department. We have been working a lot on restructuring this area of great need. We have been working a lot on laying out policies and procedures and bringing greatly needed organization to many areas with our children. One of these areas has been the process of reintegration. According to the Mozambiquen government (we have been working much closer with Social Services as well) our children are not allowed to stay on the base after 18 years old. In order to see a successful transition for our older boys when they turn 18 we have been working a lot on researching the possibilities of further education, on the job training, work opportunities etc. that they can get involved with before they are 18. It has been a good awakening to many of our older boys. They are beginning to think more seriously about their futures and what they want to do.

Boys Outreach Team….
On Wednesday mornings and afternoons I have a time of discipleship and training for our boys who want to be involved with outreach. From the very beginning I told them that it did not matter to me if there were 20 or if there were 5. I wanted it to be something they are doing because they want to and are hungry. From this group we have developed a drama team, a sound system team and soon a worship team. Since we have been having serious problems with our vehicles here (none of them work except one large flatbed truck) I have not been able to take them on an outreach far away like I would like to do. But this Saturday (August 15) we will be going to a pastor’s house to minister to 50 or more children. We are looking forward to this time.

Big Changes Ahead….
So as many of you know while I was in America this last time I met the most amazing man, Samuel Swartz, in Redding, California while visiting Bethel Church. God knows how to write the best romance stories ever. J Since my arrival back in Mozambique our relationship has grown even closer. It has been very difficult for me not having Samuel here to share in my life and to see what God is doing. We have spent many hours on the phone together during these past 3 months growing in deeper intimacy together. We both know the Lord is in our relationship and know He is good at divine setups. We are both looking forward to the future together and what it all holds. Samuel is making plans to come and spend at least three months here in Mozambique with me starting in October. We are both greatly looking forward to this time of working together on the mission field where we know God has called us both. Please keep Samuel in your prayers as he prepares to come. Please pray for finances to be poured out in abundance as he plans this journey because as of right now he doesn’t have them. There are a lot of unknowns that lay in front of Samuel and I, but we trust the Lord and know that He is guiding us in every step that we are taking.

Thank you for your continued prayers and financial support. I wish you could see personally what the Lord is doing here and what He is doing in my life. I know that I am in a season of preparation. He is teaching me a lot and I am trying to be a good student. J

With great love.
Ashlee

Blessed Generation - Mozambique - July 7, 2004

2009-07-06T15:53:00.000-07:00

Greetings!

I hope this finds you well and full of hope.

As usual things have been very busy here. It has been difficult finding a way to rest amongst the constant demands. When I am home I always have people at my door, which include the constant flow of our boys coming for various reasons. Some simply need one-on-one time while others have medical or school issues. I’m finding it difficult to find spaces where I can just hide away and have some alone time. When I try to hide away it seems that the calls at the door seem to inhibit me from doing so. I am learning better what it is to delegate which has helped with the workload. Samuel has been a great support to me in this area. Thankfully we have been able to talk almost every day since I have been here in Mozambique. He is such a blessing to my life. Being so far apart has not been fun, but we are growing and drawing close.

June 7 was an amazing day that I will remember for a long time. It was a special day that was set aside to gather with the group of kids that I am working with from the community. This is the group from Rainha’s church who take part in the agriculture project. The kids wanted to have a time with me to welcome me back so we got together to have lunch and lots of fun. I really wanted it to be a time of freedom for them. A time where they could forget about the hardships of life and just be kids again. J And that is exactly what happened! Since June 7 was a Sunday the group invited me to their church because they had a surprise for me. I went there not knowing what to expect, but felt so honored just by their invitation. After the service had gone on for quite a while and the air full of song Rainha walked up front with many of the smallest children from the group. They sang some songs, which were very cute to hear as they sung with all of their hearts. When they finished Rainha spoke a bit about the group and talked about me a bit. She then invited me up front and said that the children wanted to present me with something. The next thing that I realize is that there are 4 little ones (around 4 – 5 years old) walking from the back of the church towards me with two capulanas in their hands. All of the children sang along with Rainha as they presented me with the capulanas. Rainha took one of the capulanas and wrapped it around me as a skirt and the other one was placed on my head as the Mozambiquen women wear them here. This was deeply touching to me. Here I hardly ever hear thank you or see such an act of gratitude. It always seems to be the opposite of asking for more or what is given is not enough because the need is so great. The pulls and needs are many. As I stood in front of that church on that Sunday morning I expressed my gratitude for their act of kindness and told them that without the help of people who have given financially I could not help like I have. I told them that is was because of Jesus’ love and glorified Him for His faithfulness and goodness.

After the service we (Rainha, the kids and myself) hoped into a big flatbed truck and went to a house that Rainha and her husband are in the process of building. We had an awesome time. After having lunch together I spent some time pouring words of life into them by encouraging them to remember God’s promises over their lives. We spoke about the dreams they have in their hearts and to seek God for his guidance. I also spoke to them about the power of life and death that they have in their words by challenging them to step up to a higher standard in their communication to others and to themselves. During this time we chose a name for our group as the kids had expressed how much they wanted to erase the image of orphans off of themselves. One of the boys (Domingos) gave the idea of the group being called “Geracao Abencoado” (Blessed Generation) because blessings from heaven are showing upon them now. I knew that this was to be the name when I first heard it, but we talked about it as a group and the vote was unanimous in favor of this name. We are officially called “Blessed Generation”! What a great proclamation!!

We ended our time with lots of fun by playing with balloons and bobbing for apples. I had never seen a group of kids have so much fun with 3 simple balloons as they raced and laughed together trying to hit them up into the air. Sometimes one of them would grab it and run as the rest ran after with excitement trying to catch them. Bobbing for apples was definitely a first for them. It was so fun watching them with joy trying to grab the apples with their teeth as the others gathered around to cheer them on and give them advice on how to go about this tricky task. It was great. They told me afterwards that they don’t remember the last time they have had an apple. It was a huge treat. Here in Dondo apples are an expensive fruit that are a special commodity. Instead of using money to buy one apple most families would prefer to purchase fish to make a meal. Many of these kids in this group miss meals each day or eat very simply so to have something like an apple was very special. I had also made them pumpkin bread and oatmeal cookies, which they absolutely loved. I like making things that they have never eaten before to bless them. Their expressions are always so much fun to hear and see.

Our return to the church that night on the back of the flatbed truck was one of joyous singing. When we arrived at the church for the kids to participate in the evening service people were looking on in wonder as they saw them so full of freedom and joy. It was absolutely wonderful to see this group able to play and be free again like children as youth should be. It was a special time that we will always remember. I believe that God has other plans for this group in the months ahead. I would really like to take them on outreaches into other churches where we can minister together to bless other places. This will depend on finances. I’m praying for ideas for this group on how to invest into their lives in a significant way. I believe in August we will start preparing the field again to plant for next season, but outside this project Rainha and myself would like to do other things with them.

God is so faithful. Please continue to hold me in prayer as I really need his guidance and wisdom. Since my arrival back He has been revealing even more about the culture here and I have been confronting these things in love and truth.

Thank you again for your support financially and in prayer as I could not be here without you. We are truly together in the harvest.

With His Love and Grace,
Ashlee

P.S. When I was in Washington a first grade teacher invited me to speak to her class about Mozambique. Upon my departure from America they sent about 40 friendship bracelets with me to bless the children here in Mozambique. These bracelets went to this group of children that Rainha and I work with. Thank you again to that first grade class and the teacher who had a vision and heart of love to bless the children here.

A GIFT FROM THE CHILDREN OF THE AGRICULTURE PROJECT - JUNE 6, 2009

2009-06-07T14:01:00.000-07:00

Here is a picture of a blessing that I received today. The children's gift - the capulana and head wrap on me.

The picture with me inside of the church with the head wrap on and the capulana wrapped around me was when I was talking to the church - sharing my gratitude and praising Jesus for what He is doing.

They had blessed me. Yep, they said I looked like a real Mozambiquen women. They said that I looked very pretty.

This was a gift from the children of agriculture project. We now have an official name for our group - Blessed Generation.

Ashlee

HELLO TO MY FAMILY AND FRIENDS - MAY 27, 2009

2009-06-07T13:50:00.000-07:00

Hello to my family and friends!

It feels great to be writing you once again from Mozambique. To be here once again with this people whom God has given me such a love for brings joy to my heart. Upon my arrival it took me a bit to get back on the Mozambique time schedule, but I am doing well now. I’m once again used to going to sleep with the loud sound of crickets and frogs outside my window. Thankfully the drums from the witchdoctor’s ceremonies have not been a normal thing as they are sometimes. Coming back to the smell of Mozambique and the humidity in the air is a nice change from the cold. The reminder of the roughness of Africa still has not ceased as the effects of it are all around me from the many deaths that I heard about within the first week I was back to the women laboring in their fields so they can have food for their families. It is the end of the rice season and we are going into the potato season.

So many transitions have taken place here on the base since my absence, but they have been for the good. The team that I am working with now has changed. Two of the women that I worked with in the years past have left, but we have two couples that have joined our team. I am enjoying getting to know them. It has been neat to see the different callings, giftings and personalities that God has placed in each of us and how they complement one another for the better of the whole. God is rewriting history here.

Our boys are growing and maturing into young men. Nelson and Domingos (two of our older boys) and I were looking at a picture of us all together about 2 years ago and we had a good laugh as they saw how “boyish” their faces were.

We have 4 new boys who are now with us. Three of them are brothers and one is an only son who is a complete orphan. His mother passed away while I was in America. His mother Rebecca was one of the first people that I started helping when I took the responsibility of the clinic on our base in 2006. Tuesday through Friday they have devotions in the morning which three of us missionaries take turns leading. Right now the older boys are doing a step-by-step study of the new birth that we have in Jesus. The little boys, who are mostly led by Julie, are learning a variety of lessons from not being fearful because God is their protector to knowing that God still does miracles today. She has been doing a great job with them and has been having fun making up songs to go with the lessons to help them remember. I love seeing Julie soar with this.

June 1st is Children’s Day here in Mozambique so I am helping organize activities for this day. It’s always fun coming up with things that our boys have never experienced before and then seeing their faces when we introduce them to it. So for this Children’s Day I am making a piñata! Anything with food is always a lot of fun. J Right now we are planning on doing fun games on Saturday because all of our boys will be here and they don’t have school commitments. On Monday, the actually date of Children’s Day; we will have a big soccer game between our boys versus our staff. The last time they played together our staff lost so they want a rematch. It will be fun to watch. We are also going to have the famous chicken, french fries and salad lunch that is always the special meal for any celebration. Let the celebration of the children begin!

As I have said so many times in the past there is no way that I could be here without your support. Thank you so, so very much to those who have supported me financial this past year. You have no idea how much you have helped me to be able to stay here and do what God has called me to do. Thank you so much! Thank you for believing in the vision that God has placed in me. Thank you for believing in me!!

Thank you for your prayer support and every note of encouragement to those who have sent them to me. It is always such a joy to here from people that I care about.

Richest blessings to each one of you!

With Love,

Ashlee

HEADING BACK TO DONDO - April 30, 2009

2009-06-07T13:36:00.000-07:00

A big hello to you!!

Wow, it has been a while since I have sent anything out. I have had a wonderful time being back in America. So much has taken place since my arrival, but once again the time has come to head back to Mozambique. I fly out of Seattle on May 13 and will arrive in Dondo, Mozambique on May 15 to glowing faces of joy for my long awaited return.

I spoke with the boys a couple of weeks ago and they are very excited about my return and told me that we have 5 new boys who have been added to our family. I am looking forward to meeting and loving on these 5 new little ones. I know Papa has big plans for them and has given us the privilege to be a part of what He is doing in their lives.

I’m also looking forward to reconnecting with the people in the community which I have connections with. Many changes have taken place in Dondo since I have been in the States so I will be going back to a lot of new things. So much change has taken place at the base that I do not know the fullness of it until I actually get there and sit down with our missionary and Mozambiquen team. Father is good and He knows only good and has only good things in store for His kids.

Before I left Mozambique at the end of November I knew that God had a treasure chest full of treasures that He wanted to give me, but He was waiting for my arrival in America. Since my arrival here I have been so blessed by the many things He has done. His treasures are great. One of those treasures is meeting a man that I truly adore. His name is Samuel. I met Samuel in January when I went to Redding, California to visit Bethel Church (which God had told me to do when I was in Mozambique). As many of you know I have never dated before or allowed anyone to pursue me so this is a very new experience, but I’m convinced that it’s God. Samuel is an amazing person with a heart of pure gold who feels called to missions. There is so much that I can say about him and about our journey, but this is good for now. It has been a very fun few months hanging out with him as he has come to Washington a couple of times and I have gone to Redding, California to visit him. He is originally from Ohio, but is at Bethel church as a Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry 3rd year intern with the evangelism pastor there. This summer Samuel will be going to a remote island in Alaska to work. Our communication is going to be extremely limited during this time because where he is going they don’t have good Internet or cell reception. I don’t like this part as it is going to be difficult not having much communication, but God’s grace is sufficient. After Alaska he is not sure if he will be coming to Mozambique to visit me or if a door will open up for him to get his pilot’s license. Please keep him in your prayers regarding this and the decisions that lay ahead of us both. I have attached two pictures of us both. One is of us on my birthday and the other is us after we went skydiving.

Thank you again for all of your prayers and support. Please keep my family also in prayer as this is a difficult time for us as we spend our last days and hours together until we see each other again.

You are very loved and highly favored!

Because I love Jesus!
Ashlee

Happy New Years and an update on the Farm - 12-31-2008

2009-02-09T16:41:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year Everyone and Belated Merry Christmas!!
I have been in contact with many people in Mozambique since my arrival in America. The rains have finally arrived so the people can finally seed their fields. I am very glad to let you know that the youth, with the help of men and women from the Igreja de Paz (Church of Peace), went to Tica and seeded the field with corn a little over a week ago. Esau and Junito (two people who are helping Pastor Jacinto, Rainha and myself with the agriculture project) said that it was a success planting the seed and that the youth/children did a great job. One of the pastors that is helping with this project in Tica was there to help instruct the people on how things needed to be done properly. Esau went back to Tica a few days ago to check on the field and he said that some of the plants have already sprouted. Praise Jesus!
Thank you so much for your support during 2008. I could not have been in Mozambique without you. It's with great appreciation and a heart of gratitude that I lift you up in thanksgiving to God for your love and support.
I'm full of hope and expectation for this coming year.
With Love,
Ashlee

Happy Thanksgiving - November 27, 2008

2009-02-09T16:26:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!!! We have so much to be thankful for!! I’m very thankful for this gift to be able to spend the holidays with my family this year. What a blessing.

As I write this letter to you I am sitting on the airplane heading from Jo’burg to Washington DC. It’s about an 18 hour flight so I thought I should take advantage of the time and do something productive. As I write this I am realizing that it has been a bit over a month since I last sent out any communication about what has been going on in Mozambique. The month of October was basically just a month of conferences. We had a women’s conference where Trafina (Pastor Supresa Sithole’s wife) came from South Africa with a large group to minister to the women of Central Mozambique. There was a lot of preparation that took place before this could happen. My part was to prepare accommodations for around 500 women. The conference went well, but it was very exhausting for all of us. The days were very long with early mornings and very late nights. My heart was to focus on serving the women as Jesus gave us the example of serving one another. I served them with all of my heart and strength. Unfortunately I was quite sick during this time so upon the exhaustion my health was not well, but God is good to have restored me. J I had one day to clean up after the women’s conference and prepare for another large team that came from Brazil to do a seminar for our Bible School students and pastors.

Farm Project

We are waiting for the rains to come so that the kids that are part of this project can go and seed the field. We have already bought the seed (corn, tomatoes and I believe they will buy pumpkin also) and the tools. I have attached some pictures of these so you can see a piece of the fruit of your giving. The kids are doing well. They are eager for the rains to come so that they can go to the field. They are really beginning to draw close to me. A few times that I was able to I went to a couple of their houses to visit them and see how they were doing. This past week on Wednesday I spent the whole afternoon with a handful of them. I wanted to do something special with them before I left (and they did too) J so we had lunch together at Esau and Cade’s house. About 5 girls stayed up really late the night before preparing cakes. The next morning when I went to the house they had it decorated and were cooking the lunch. We had a great time of fellowship, dancing, and just having fun.

In my last letter to you I told you about the three children who are siblings that were separated after their parent’s death. I told you about the youngest boy who lived in Beira and the two older siblings had to pay for him to be cared for. Last month the younger brother fled the house he was living in and came to Dondo. There are very strong signs that he was being abused. He walked from Beira, which is about a 40-45 minute drive…he is 9 years old. Rainha and I went and visited with him when we found out what had happened. Before I met this little guy I had such a big compassion and love in my heart for him. To see him for the first time and see such sadness in his eyes was difficult. When I looked at him I looked at him with hope knowing that Jesus has an awesome destiny for this little treasure and Satan is trying hard to destroy it, but He has lost the war! On this day he wouldn’t speak and couldn’t look at anyone – he was very downcast and scared. After some adjustments and getting the correct paperwork Rainha took Armandinho (the little boy) to stay at their ministry location. They are not set up to have kids in the physical and financial sense, but we know this is God. Armandinho is staying with Junito (who works with Rainha and her husband – he is a man of God). Junito is pouring out love on him. When we had our lunch and celebration on Wednesday I told Junito to bring Armandihno. I spent the afternoon gently pouring out love and acceptance upon him. For the very first time I saw him smile – not once, but three times! I even got him to give a little laugh at one point. The day after our special lunch I went to the mission where he is staying and spent more time with him. I gave him a picture that I had taken of him and the joy that filled his face brought tears to my eyes. It was great seeing his beautiful smile as Junito and I played with him. The pain is slowly falling from him and I see that it truly is Jesus’ pure love that is doing the miracle…..I’m seeing a little life being transformed by love in front of my face. It is about the one! I have said many times if I had my own house I would take him in as a son, but right now I know he is where he is supposed to be. He has never been able to go to school, but this January (when they start school again) Armandihno will be going! I attached a picture of him with me so you can see his face and pray for him....God is healing this little boy's heart.

It’s About The One

My heart is so passionate to stop for the one. Incarnational ministry – loving people where they are at and seeing them being transformed by the power of Jesus’ love and truth. This past Sunday I took, David and Naza, two really good friends of mine to a church in Beira where Jesus is exalted and His presence and power is more than evident. I wanted them to see real Jesus and a healthy church. Naza is a friend who did not know Jesus – she knew about Him, but she did not know Him. I want her to know Him. When I invited her to go to the church she was very ready and excited to go. So last Sunday morning David, Naza and myself hoped on a chapa (Mozambiquen transport – like a mini bus) and headed to Beira. It was a powerful time. Naza gave her heart to Jesus. She told me later that that was her church now. Afterwards we went to a restaurant on the beach and had lunch together. It was such a good time. After lunch we played in freedom on the beach. It was so good to see Naza so free. She is the same age as myself, but already a widow with two children. On this day it was like the stress of life was lifted off of her shoulders and she was free to have fun. All three of us played and had great conversations – I didn’t want the day to end – I didn’t want to go back home.

Yesterday (Thursday), I went to Naza’s house to spend time with her and her family before leaving for America. It really touched me as I was with her. I know she loves me deeply. She said, “Ashlee, I believe God brought you here just for me.” She told me to always remember that I am a part of many people’s lives here and to come back to Mozambique quickly. She placed her hands on each side of my face and gave me a big kiss on the forehead. This was symbolic to me as I know that it is a symbol of acceptance as intimate family.

Sometimes we don’t even realize the deepness of how Father uses our lives to touch and draw others to Himself. It’s through true intimate relationship that I am seeing people truly coming to Jesus in Mozambique. Rainha told me something one day that really hit me. She said, “Ashlee, as a missionary you can come to Mozambique and work for years, but if you never go and be a part of the people and their lives you will leave after years without anyone knowing you or making a deep impact because Mozambiquens will not come and open to you unless you embrace them first….but when you open to them they will not let you go.”

I love the people of Mozambique more than I can express. They truly have become my people and this has become my home. They tease me sometimes and say that I have become more Mozambiquen than American – to me this is a compliment because what they are saying is that I understand them and the culture.

During this time that I am in America I have a lot to think and pray about. I really need direction from the Father in some decisions that I must make. I would be so grateful for your prayers in this regard.

Thank you for your continued support because without you I could not be in Mozambique. Thank you so much for believing in what God is doing in Mozambique and what He is doing through my life. You each are such a precious gift to me.

“That I may proclaim with the voice of thanksgiving, and tell of all Your wondrous works. Lord I have loved the habitation of Your house.” Psalm 26:7-8

Because He Is My Everything!!!

Ashlee

Vist to the Field - Mozambique - October 12, 2008

2009-02-09T16:20:00.000-08:00

I just got back from Tica with the youth/children that are part of the farm project. We had a great time. It was wonderful sitting in the back of the open cameo (flat bed truck) talking with them and getting to know them better. We walked around the perimeter of the field and then gathered to pray and thank the Lord for all that He is doing. After allowing them to run around and enjoy their time there playing and eating mangos from the mango trees, Rainha and myself gathered them together to speak some things that were on our hearts and pray over them. It was a special time. We arrived back in Dondo in time for them to join their evening service, but not before eating the cookies I made for them. :) They always love it here when I bake things for them because it is different than what they make here in Mozambique. They always say how good it tastes.....what a nice compliment huh?! :)

Jesus is so good and I am glorying in what He is doing. As we are faithful in the little I know He will entrust us with the more. Thank you Father for Your goodness!!!

Passionate for Him!
Ashlee

Bush Ministry / Farm Project - 10/10/08

2008-10-10T12:58:00.000-07:00

Hello to my precious family and friends!

It is with great love and care that I send you this email. In the first place I want to give glory to my Heavenly Father who is continuously looking after me and never allows me to carry more than I can handle. To speak openly with you these past few months have been very difficult, but without going into great detail I can say that we serve a great God who cares. When my church heard that I was walking through some very difficult times they came together and prayed fervently for me along with my family who knew as well. I give great glory to God as I can testify that response was felt immediately as the heaviness lifted and I began to see God’s hand at work. There seems to always be battles that rage here from one extent to the other, but through each I am learning more and more to rest in the Lord and know what it means to strengthen myself in Him.

As I write this letter my heart is very full of gratitude for all that I am seeing Father do here and for the open doors He has given me. My heart is so full of love and gratitude. On September 17, 18 and 19 I took a team of 6 people to visit three of our churches in the District of Beira. They were three very full days and very fruitful. Our goal was to go and encourage the churches and see how they were doing. Upon our arrival we had a service at each place where I shared a message that I felt the Father had given to me. Each time I was blown away by the closeness of Jesus. Each place was very different, yet very special. After our time of ministering to the Lord and to the people I met with the leaders of the church. During each of these meetings my eyes were opened more to the struggles that they face here not only physically but spiritually. I learned so many valuable things. There is such a huge need for discipleship and training in these churches. I know this is true, but I got to hear it from the leadership’s mouth themselves. They struggle so much with people being deceived by other false religions.

The second church that we went to, Nhanguro, I felt the pastor was in a state of discouragement. In 2004 the pastor bought and built the church with his own finances and hard labor. He feels that his people in his congregation are becoming weak, but he will not give up because it was built to glorify Jesus. A while back I was given a special offering to use for Bibles so I took 3 Bibles with me and gave them to this pastor. Two of the Bibles are in Sena (the local tribal language) and the other in Portuguese. When I gave them to the pastor it was like I had given him gold. He, along with the leadership, were so thankful. We also took a church sign to this church as they did not have one and we saw the same response of great joy. The pastor was so thrilled. He said now people will know that it is a church and not a movie house or discotec. My heart was flooded with gratitude to the Lord for allowing me to be a vessel He was using to bring His good news and encourage this pastor and his church. As I met with the leadership, Lino who was part of my team, went out into the village to evangelize. It was a great three days. Upon our arrival home on the last day each of the people that went with me wanted to know when we were going again! They loved it!! And so did I!! I feel so alive when I am out in the bush and ministering to the people there. Father’s love is always so strong and the Holy Spirit is always so present working in the hearts of the people as we are obedient to follow His leading. Since we have two conferences in October I will not be able to go this month, but I hope that I will be released to go in November.

The Farm Project

A couple of months ago I was given a specific amount of money from an individual who is a dear friend of the family. She asked that I use the money to feed the children in Mozambique. The money came as a result of her not giving up in the midst of many trials as she pursues the vision God has given her. I did not know exactly what the Lord wanted me to do with the money she gave to me, but knew He had a plan. The first thing I knew was that I was to plant the first seed into a family where the mother is struggling desperately to care for her three boys. I feel as though I am like a big sister or aunt to the oldest boy who has drawn close to me and looks to me a lot for counsel as he tries to help his family. I took the three boys to the market and we bought food that would last them three months at least, plus some extra goodies that they never get. It was great. I did not know what I was to do with the rest of the money until about a month ago while I was over at a friend’s house eating lunch. She and her husband are pastors of a local church here in Dondo. They are people that I have grown to love and respect very much. While we sat eating lunch I felt the Lord nudge me and say to open the door to her. So I began to tell her that I was given a bit of money to help the children of Mozambique and heard the Lord say to open the door to her. Happy is not a sufficient word to describe the gratitude that I felt flow from her. She has a tremendous heart for children and is the one who is responsible for them in their church. To make a long story short, I found out that in total the church has about 66 youth/children that are orphaned (Dad and Mom died) or partial orphan (only Mom or only Dad living, but the situation is bad). Rainha, the women’s name, has been praying for help and intervention for these children for at least 5 years. On many occasions she uses the little she has to help them. Since that day until now we have watched how the Lord is exploding the little bit of money that I had into a vision coming true. After speaking with Rainha and hearing what was on her heart I took the report back to my family and the original women (whom I love very much – you know who you are) who gave the money and great investment of prayer and sacrifice. The dream is to have a farm where these children can benefit not only physically, but where there can be emotional and spiritual healing and growth. When I sent the report other people began to get wind of it and are beginning to invest into the vision. As of two weeks ago we (Pastor Jacinto (Rainha’s husband), Rainha and myself) went to Tica (which is about a 40 minute drive from Dondo) and we bought land!!! What an exciting day. The land is 3 hectares – which is supposed to be about 6 or 7 acres. One of their new church plants is located on the corner of the land so it is an amazing place to have a field. This past week we hired a man to plow the land with a tractor. They say that the land had not been plowed with a tractor for at least 9 years and we should get a really good crop. The vision of Pastor Jacinto and Rainha is that the youth, most importantly, grow to know and love Jesus with all of their hearts; secondly they must study (go to school) to prepare for their future; and thirdly they must work for that which they receive. They believe very strongly that if you give a person a fish they will eat for one day, but if you teach them to fish they will eat for a lifetime. This farm project is being built with these goals at its base.

Right now we have a group of children/youth that are more of a priority according to their situation. These ones are our focus group. There are 36 youth/children that will benefit from this project as they will be the ones who go to the field and work the land and will benefit from the harvest that the field yields. At least twice a month we/they will take the older girls and boys of this group to work the field. During this time it is my hearts desire that there will be times of ministry and healing of hearts. God is very creative so I believe even the simple fact that they can get away from Dondo and away from the burden they carry here that Father is going to work on their hearts. Perhaps they can win back a bit of the childhood some of them have lost because they have had to grow up so quickly to care for their siblings after their parent’s death. We think it would be great to even take these times to allow this group to minister to the church there. There are so many things stirring within me regarding this project and I feel the love of Jesus for these children/youth so strongly. I wish I could take them in my arms and tell them that it all will be ok. Since the land is next to the church the pastor of the church has agreed to watch over and take care of the crop during the week when we cannot be there. We will bless him with a monthly amount for his work so it is a two-way blessing.

The youth/children that are in this project are true orphans (physically). There is one situation where the Dad and Mom died leaving 3 children ages 15, 12 and 6. These three children had no where to go so they were separated to live in the houses of people they do not know working as hired servants. The 15 and 12 year old get 250 mets (about $10.50) per month. From this money they have to take 150 mets each to send it to a family who is caring for their younger brother who is in Beira. If they don’t send the money the family sends the younger brother of 6 years old to get it. If they don’t pay the money their younger brother cannot stay with the family and would end up on the streets. When I spoke to the 15 year old (girl) and 12 year old (boy) neither of them are studying, but would love to. They both only studied until 3rd grade and then had to drop out because of their situation. If I had my own house I would take these three to live with me and see Jesus do a work in them. Each of the children/youth have stories that really do tug at the heart and are stories of reality which they are living. Through this project, Rainha and myself, are glorifying God as we believe that healing and restoration has begun. This Sunday, October 12, we are taking the group of youth to see and pray over the field. I am greatly looking forward to this. J

There is so much that has taken place with this project and things are moving quickly. If you have questions or would like to help financially or in any other way please contact me. I would love to hear from you. In speaking with Rainha yesterday (October 8) she said that this is a project that they have wanted to do for a long time and suddenly God is bringing it to the forefront. She has knocked on so many doors, but nothing has ever opened, but now God is surprising her with His goodness. She says they don’t have words to say how thankful they are to the Lord. She says not many people have this heart. So many people have promised things, but never kept their word. She feels so encouraged.

“Oh, how great is Your goodness, which you have laid up for those who fear, revere, and worship You, goodness which You have wrought for those who trust and take refuge in You before the sons of men!” Psalm 31:19

Thank you for continuing to stand with me. Thank you for loving Jesus and for loving His people!!

May all the glory be to Jesus!
With His Love,
Ashlee

Greetings from Mozambique 3-16-2008

2008-03-16T13:00:00.000-07:00

Querida Familia e Amigos
(Dear family and friends)!

March is my two year anniversary of when I came to Dondo , Mozambique as a full-time missionary in 2006. What a full two years it has been of learning what it is to walk in the joys and sufferings of the cross. I am thankful to God for every moment whether difficult or easy. I’m so thankful for how He has worked through my life to glorify His name and I am looking forward to what He has in store for the future.

TB Free Zone in Jesus’ Name

Since my last update I had two more of our boys tested for TB as their health was deteriorating and I recognized the signs. Their results came back positive so they have begun treatment. Thankfully they have not reached the level of being contagious so they do not have to be isolated like Tony was.

Tony has finished the two month intensive treatment phase and is back living in the boy’s house. The second phase of treatment for TB is four months. He has made quick recovery and I exalt the Lord for this as it was not an easy first two months.

Prison Ministry

Something very special has been taking place at the prison the last three weeks I have gone to minister there. A little over a month ago I felt the Lord say strongly to me to begin to be more sensitive and expecting during our times of worship in the prison because the Holy Spirit wanted to come in a more powerful way. I began to fervently pray and welcome the Holy Spirit to do this. I told this to Lino (the barber) who I minister with in the prison and he became very happy. Now for the past three weeks God’s presence has come in such a strong way during worship. The first week it happened during worship a break of silence came after one song of adoration to the Lord. When one of the prisoners began to sing again his voice was crackly as though he was holding back tears. Each week since that time there has been much more sincerity coming from the prisoners. As they worship there is passion in your faces as a handful kneel down on their knees in reverence. There is a small group that I have been watching for the past month or so being transformed. I have seen the hardness fall off and I see Jesus’ glow in their faces. This past Thursday two of them came to me saying “Mana Ashlee when we get out we want to come to your church”. One gets out at the end of April and the other in June. I pray they do come and continue to feel the embrace of the Father’s love for them. My heart is that when they get out there is someone with them who can walk with them and help disciple them in the truth. This brings me to Agnaldo.

In my last newsletter I introduced you to Agnaldo who I met while ministering in the jail. Since that time I have been in contact with him by phone as he lives in another town/village. A couple of weeks had passed without hearing anything from Agnaldo. All I could do was pray as I felt a deep concern for him within my spirit. Last weekend he called me to say he wanted to come visit me, but he had hurt his foot so was not able to make it. Within my spirit the Holy Spirit told me to go visit him, so this last Thursday morning I caught a 25 minute bus ride to Mafambisse to visit Agnaldo. This trip was very good and very much of God. It touched me very deeply and has left me with a heart of intercession for this young man named Agnaldo who Jesus loves so passionately. From the first time I met him I saw God has a special plan for his life and now He is allowing me to see the struggles he faces each day. Agnaldo was put in jail because he started to like a girl who lived in his area, but the father disapproved of this because Agnaldo is orphaned and poor. First he beat him up and then paid the police to put him in jail and keep him there. He was supposed to have been there for one year, but God showed mercy upon him and he was released after one month. Since he got out of jail he has been staying with distant cousins who he did not grow up knowing. I found out when I visited him on Thursday that his cousins do not want him to live with them and are not kind to him. There are four in all that he lives with and only one continues to show him mercy by defending him and allowing him to stay with them. Agnaldo is living like a servant in the house of his cousins. Each day he washes their clothes, cooks the meals, gets the water from the well (which is not close), cleans the house and whatever else needs to be done. He does this so that he can have a place to live and food to eat. If he has anything nice it is stolen from him and if he says anything about it they tell him he can leave. Since he was put in prison it is as though a label has been placed on him by individuals so any type of work is difficult to find. While spending time with Agnaldo he told me he has no joy and sometimes wonders if he even has a right to live. Thankfully he does have another friend who also loves Jesus and has a big heart for Agnaldo. Agnaldo is pursuing the Lord and hungry for God’s Word. Before I came back home on Thursday I gave him a few Scriptures that he can declare and hold onto knowing that God is faithful and caring for him. I also had a wonderful opportunity to pray for him and his friend. There is something within me that wants to fight for Agnaldo. I want to see him one day have a family and continue the family line that Satan has tried and is trying to destroy….to see him be a man like David – a man after God’s own heart. The enemy has tried to squish the joy of the Lord out of him by the cares of this world, but my Heavenly Father is greater than that….my Heavenly Daddy always wins!!!

There is such a roar of kingdom life that is burning within me to see salvation come…..I am tired of the suffering, tired of seeing lives being destroyed…..Satan has lost and I am determined to continue reminding him of that and seeing Jesus totally, completely, and utterly glorified!!!

On April 22nd I leave Mozambique to head back to America . I am looking greatly forward to seeing my amazing family, my friends and church family. I will be home for about 2 ½ months before coming back to Mozambique .

Thank you again to each and every one of you who has sowed into my life in prayer and financially during this past year. Thank you for those who have sent packages and letters in the mail…what joy these gifts have brought to me and those you sent them to (the boys etc.). Without you I could not be here seeing God’s Kingdom expand into all the earth. Thank you from me and from Jesus!

I want to leave you with a Scripture that has been very strong on my heart:

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony, and they did not love their lives to the death.” Revelation 12:11

Because He Loved Us First,
Ashlee

Dondo, Mozambique- February 19, 2008

2008-02-19T12:11:00.000-08:00

Hello once again!

I pray that this letter finds each of you well and abounding in grace. J It’s hard to believe that we are already in the middle of February. Time seems to be going so quickly as each day has been so full of activity. After I read an email from Elizabeth (a girl from my church) who is finishing up a missions trip it brought back realities of life here that I don’t necessarily think about anymore, but in reflection it gave me a chuckle and thought you might like to hear some of those thoughts. So let me take you into Ashlee’s world for a bit; let’s venture into some realities you might enjoy hearing. J I began to think of my time back in America - the times I go to visit family and friends. Because of Elizabeth’s email I began to think of things I don’t miss from Mozambique while I am in America, one of them being what my friend called the “bloody Satan bugs” of which I would have to add to the list cockroaches, mice and ants that are always on the march but never seem like they have a destination. I don’t miss the sound of fighting drunk people in the village at night or the yelping dogs because someone is abusing them. I don’t miss malaria and always having to wash my feet before going to bed or the constant sweat that strolls down my back everyday because it is so humid and hot. I don’t miss the drums of the witchdoctors or the silent cries of the suffering women and children. But there are so many more things that I do miss…..the faces of the Mozambiquens, the high spirited, full of joy dancing and singing; simplicity of life; no vanity; sound of the guard and students sweeping outside early in the morning; smell of the fires in the cold season; the greeting of the children as I walk through the villages; the yes of the people to salvation; the prisoners singing with such tenacity; …the list can go on.

Tony

I am sure many are wondering about Tony as I had sent out updates on his situation with TB. Well, I am very happy to tell you that he actually started school on Monday and is doing very well. He still will be sleeping in a different room then the other boys until March 9th and is not allowed to do any physically heavy work until his treatment is over. Other then that he is doing great and so happy to be out of the clinic and with his friends again. I too am so thankful that he is out of intensive care as it was not easy for me these past two months. It was a sacrifice of love caring for his needs each day, but it was worth it. This morning I woke up for the first time in a long time feeling rested. It felt so good.

New Boy Added to the Family - (Zito is on the left)

In January we received a new little guy to our family. His name is Zito. Zito is 9 years old and was being cared for by one of our pastors in Beira , but due to lack of resources he was brought to our center to stay with us. I have attached a picture of him so you can see his cute little face. He is fitting in nicely with the other children, but is a handful at times as he learns the ways of life here at our home.

More Prison News - Aginaldo

In one of my past letters I told about the story of Lazaro and some have asked about him since that time. I have not seen him since Christmas evening. I know that he came to the center a few times looking for me, but I was not here. I pray that he is still walking with Jesus. Since that time God has been doing beautiful things in the prison ministry. A couple of weeks ago another young man was released from prison when he was supposed to be sentenced to stay there for at least one year. His name is Aginaldo. It all started about four weeks ago when I went to the jail to ministry as usual, but this time I brought one of our visitors with me. There was one inmate who spoke English (Aginaldo) so as we were leaving he struck up a conversation with the visitor. In his words he was very oppressed at this time and had no hope. He had already been in prison for one month and found it to be very difficult. While he was talking with this visitor she encouraged him that he would get out as she had faith in this. Something in her words breathed life into his heart; it was something he could grab a hold of. The following Thursday when I returned to the jail he told me that in the morning he was given a clean slate and his case was being dropped; he was free to go after he paid some type of jail fee. This particular week the guards were not hurrying us out as usual so I was able to stay in the prison just talking with him and speaking life into his spirit for almost 10 or 15 minutes. It was such a neat time as each person on my team also had the opportunity to mingle with the other inmates spending time speaking life into them one-on-one. It was a God given time. Aginaldo said when he got out that he would come and visit me to show that he was free. That Saturday he showed up here at the base in a state of gratitude and awe that he was actually free. This day there was not much time to visit as it was getting late and he needed to get to his cousin’s house which was about a 10 minute chappa ride away. That following Monday morning when I came back from the hospital he had just arrived to visit. I felt in my spirit to introduce him to my friend’s Esau and Cade as they are pastors in Mafambisse which is where he is staying. So after taking him with me to visit a boy in the village who was very sick we went to Esau and Cade’s house. That day alone he spent four hours discussing Scripture with Esau and the only reason they stopped was because Esau had to get ready to go to school. He is really hungry and seeking truth. His first question was how do you know the true Church? Esau and I began to explain to him the beautiful reality that we believers are the Church. Jesus is not coming back for a building made of bricks, stone, bamboo and mud, but for us His bride. Before he left to go home we prayed over him and I gave him a Bible. Since that day he has been in contact with me. I am praying for the seeds that have been planted to have landed on pure, clean, and ready to receive soil. I really feel that there is something very special about Aginaldo and I am joyous about what God is going to do in his life.

Clinic

Wow, Wow! So much has been happening in the clinic. It has been actually a very intense time for me as I have felt as though these past two months I have lived many of my mornings at the hospital. One good thing about this is that I have been with people who are suffering and had opportunities to pray healing over them. It has been a time to be a light in people’s greatest times of need. I see the clinic as such a mercy ministry which Father has entrusted to me. Dr. Neves and I have been taking each of our boys through a check-up process. We feel it is very important to have a health history on each one of our children so these past two months I have been taking small groups of our boys to the hospital early in the mornings to have a blood test done. Thankfully I am finished with this process! Yeah Jesus.

Today was my last day working with Dr. Neves for a few weeks as he is on his way to America . He will be there for one month staying with a doctor that invited him to go study there. During this month he will be looking at the University and location ( Minnesota ) where he will be staying. He then plans on coming back to Mozambique for a few months until he leaves for a more permanent stay in America to continue his studies. Please keep him and his family in prayer as he has a wife and baby of two months old who will be staying here in Mozambique this month while he is in America . God has His hook in Dr. Neves and is working in his life. He has been such a great blessing to me and I will miss him during this month that he is away. I have attached a picture of us so you can put a face to the name.

Evangelism

As many of you have probably already heard that we are once again being hit with the yearly floods. Because of this flooding I have not been able to do any evangelism, but hope to be able to go in late March or early April. At this time Julie (another missionary who I work with here) has been working on flood relief to the places that have been hit the worst.

“Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end.”

Once again with a heart full of gratitude I say “thank you” to those who have been keeping me in prayer. Thank you to those who have given financially as I would not be able to stay here without your giving as it is a walk of faith. Thank you for loving sacrificially with me as we labor in the harvest together!

Because He Lives,
Ashlee

Update on Tony - January 23

2008-01-23T15:22:00.000-08:00

Hello Everyone,
Sending a quick update on Tony's condition. Today is day 15 of his isolation since he began treatment for TB. His improvement has been amazing up to this point. He has a big appetite of which I have been spoiling him with great food....so thankfully he has put back on the weight that he had lost and is now looking healthier. He is much stronger now; though he does seem to have his off days. Today I took a bicycle into the clinic (which is where he is staying on our base) so he could ride around a bit. He enjoyed that. He is looking forward to the day he can go out and play futbol with the other boys. I have attached two pictures of him which I took this morning when I brought him his breakfast.

Thank you so much for your prayers for both Tony and myself. He knows that you are praying and is grateful for your love. Please continue with us as we continue to trust God for Tony's complete healing. I personally have felt your prayers very strongly during this time and am forever grateful.

Much Love,
Ashlee

Mozambique Update on Tony - January 16th

2008-01-23T15:20:00.000-08:00

Since Tony's first day of isolation on January 9th until today, January 16 I have seen him come a long way. Yes, he has a ways to go, but his smile is back and so is his appetite. I now know what it feels like to have a teenager who is "eating you out of house and home". The meds he takes a very strong so he usually is in some pain and weaker after his first dosage in the morning, but by late afternoon to evening he is doing much better. Through this and other situations that I am facing in the clinic God is really pouring out his heart of passion and compassion within my spirit. As I go to the hospital and work with the people I see so much suffering which should not be because Jesus already paid for it....

Thank you for your prayers as I can sure feel them showing upon me. And I am seeing Tony become stronger. Thank you and please keep praying. :)

In His precious love,
Ashlee

p.s. Tomorrow (Thursday) I am going to the jail with my usual team that goes and we will be doing a special service where we are taking a snack for each prisoner. We were told today that there are 175 prisoners in the jail. Please pray for this time as we go to bless them with the Truth of God's Word and a snack. We bought bread and popsicles for them which are both big treats. We are reaching out to the guards too as known of them know Jesus. There are about 10 of them that will be there tomorrow. I am praying and contending for miracles to happen in the prison as we go back faithfully each week.

Hello Family and Friends - January 12, 2008

2008-01-13T07:24:00.000-08:00

Hello Family and Friends!
Once again I am emailing you from a humid, hot Mozambique . As I write this letter to you it is almost 10:00 pm my time and the temperature is 83 degrees with 75% humidity. My Dad likes these types of interesting facts so I like to give them to you once in awhile. Perhaps while reading this letter you will feel the humid air pressing against your sweaty face and be able to relate a bit more with life here as I tell of the wonders that God is doing. Or perhaps you will feel the mosquitoes nipping at your feet as you try to type up a letter to those you love (that’s a tease. I wouldn’t want that for you).

Prayer Request for Tony

My first objective to this letter is a prayer request for Tony; one of our boys that is very special to me. Many of you may remember in May of 2006 when I sent out the story of Tony and how he came to stay with us later in August. When I first came to Dondo in 2006 Jesus told me very clearly to love on Tony. From that first day until today God has done a great work in this young man’s life of 15 years old. But right now he really needs prayer. This past week I have been at the hospital everyday either with Tony or on behalf of him as he has been very sick. After a process of tests we found out that he has TB. Once I received the results on Wednesday that he has TB I felt as though I jumped on a rollercoaster ride of activity which has not stopped. For the next two months he is not allowed to be with any of the other boys or have contact with other people. He is staying in a room alone on our base and is not allowed to leave and no one is allowed to visit him. Right now I am the only one who is visiting him each day as I attend to his special needs do to TB. Honestly it has been hard seeing Tony so ill, but my heart is not faint as I know the God I serve is the Healer. Though he is very weak and tired Tony’s spirit is up. He told me the other day that he knows he is going to be back to normal and healthy as he was before. I am so thankful that Father has allowed me to be able to walk through this with Tony. It is amazing to see what He is even doing in my heart through this. Though I am tired as this week has been very full; my heart is strong with holy compassion. Before I came back to Mozambique this last time my Dad had encouraged me to bring back walkie talkies which I thought would be a great idea for evangelism as I travel far distances with my team, but these Cobra two-way radios are very useful now with Tony’s situation. The boys are really missing his presence amongst them so I got out the two-way radios so that they can talk with Tony. I have been bringing the radios out in the evening time so they can communicate. They really like the radios and the fact they can talk to their friend who is ill. Thank you Dad for the great idea! Please keep Tony in your prayers, as well as myself as I am in close contact with him.

Evangelism

In my last newsletter I told you about my preparation to go back to the District of Buzi to do another evangelism trip. Since the rains came early this year and Buzi is being hit pretty hard I have not been able to go on this trip yet. The area that I want to go to is blocked by water. I am in contact with Pastor Miquel about the situation there. We talked about the possibility of going in March if things are cleared up by then. He said that the people are waiting for us and greatly looking forward to our arrival. With the news of Tony and the responsibility I have with him (especially during these two months) this will actually be better timing.

Since Bible School is not in session right now (probably starting up on January 20th, but it depends on the presidential elections that are taking place) I have more time to spend in the village. Those who know me well know that I have a passion for the salvation of people…to see people come to know my beautiful Jesus. It has been a wonderful thing to be able to spend time with the people in their homes, praying for them when they are sick, telling them of the greatness of Jesus. Since Mozambiquens are a relationship oriented people this is one of the best ways to reach them with the Word of God. As I spend time with the “one” I have been able to meet many more. It is about stopping for the one and loving on the one. As I stop for the “one” Jesus always puts another in my path to love on and speak truth too. There are many stories I could tell, but that would make this email many pages long….

Prison Ministry

“Remember the prisoners as though in prison with them...” Hebrews 13:3

God is doing a great work at the prison. I go each week on Thursday with a few precious Mozambiquens. At times it is only Lino (the barber) who has an evangelist heart and myself. Though many people may be intimidated by going into a third world prison I feel such life there because I feel Jesus is there in such a great way. One testimony of God’s goodness through this ministry was revealed to me Christmas night while I was walking to Chico ’s family’s house to end the evening with them. As I passed over the train tracks in the dark of the evening and passed the few remaining vendors on the side of the path selling their goods, a gentleman approached me from behind on my left side. He began to relay to me the testimony of what God was doing in his life. He remembered me from two weeks prior when I had gone to the prison with a small team to preach the Word of God. To be sure he was telling the truth and to see if he really heard the message Father spoke that day I asked him if he remembered what I said. He began to tell me the Word that was preached in enthusiasm. He said that God did a miracle in his life that day. The Father had me speak on the prodigal son. He is calling His disobedient sons to come back to Himself. It was a very strong word. And at the end I felt the Holy Spirit speak to me words of encouragement He wanted me to speak to the prisoners in the jail on that day. This man repeated these words which I told them by saying, “you told us that when we get out of prison to remain firm in the faith.” On the following day at least 5 – 10 of them were let free from that prison. This particular man (I believe his name is Lazarus) had a sentence of 10 years with no option out. The judge ruling his case was very difficult and there was no way he was going to get out earlier than the determined sentence. But by God’s grace Lazarus found favor in the sight of the judge which was ready to send him to a larger prison facility that very day. One of our boys came to me the other day to tell me that a man named Lazarus was looking for me because he wanted to learn more about Jesus and he wanted a Bible. Lazarus had also told this boy about his testimony of what God had done. Now that he has tasted and seen God’s goodness my prayer is that he will never look back. I hope that Lazarus comes to church tomorrow so that I can encourage him and be in contact with him as I know Satan wants him back.

I am so thankful that the Father does not look at us with condemning eyes, but His eyes are full of love and acceptance towards us. He is such a loving Father and I desire so much that others can know His love…that they too may join us at the banqueting table of His amazing love and goodness.

Thank you once again from the deepest parts of my heart for all of your love and prayers. Thank you for all of your support. My words seem so empty compared to the gratitude which is in my heart. Please know that my prayers and love are with you also. We are partners in the harvest. The day Father takes me to be with Him I want to turn to Jesus and tell Him “look Jesus, here is the reward you are most worthy of” as I present Him with multitudes upon multitudes of saved lives which have been washed by the blood of the Lamb. It is all for His glory!!

Because He Is,
Ashlee

From a thankful heart - Mozambique - Dec 2, 2007

2007-12-02T12:48:00.000-08:00

Hello and Happy Belated Thanksgiving to all those in America who just celebrated this beautiful day of thanks in November. This was the first year being away from my family on Thanksgiving. Thankfully I got to at least spend it with a good missionary friend of mine Octavia who is in Pemba . Our special meal consisted of spaghetti, garlic bread, corn and cooked egg plant. For dessert I made chocolate chip cookies – yummy. From the time I woke up until I went to sleep that night I felt the smile of Jesus raining upon me. My heart was overflowing with a rhythm of joy to the Lord for all that He has done and will do. Octavia and I spent the whole evening glorying in His goodness and what He has done in our lives. We had a beautiful time together loving and bragging on Jesus!!!

As I reflected on God’s goodness and how thankful I am my heart was touched with such gratitude (as happens often) for each one of you who faithful support me while I am here in Mozambique . I know many of you pray for me; even some who have never met me face to face, and this touches my heart so much as I know my Father is caring for me. There are those of you who have financially supported me while I have been here in Mozambique . This always overwhelms me with awe as Father always seems to take care of my needs and you are surely part of that blessing. Without your support of love I could not be here.

With this said I would like to tell you where the finances go that I receive so that you can share in the blessing and have more clarity. Though I am here in Mozambique with Iris Ministries I do not get paid by the ministry. I am here on a volunteer basis. Iris provides me with a base to work out of, use of their vehicles and equipment, food which we all eat at the center daily, finances for the clinic and our boys. But some of the projects that I do are paid by the support I receive. In my last update I mentioned that I am going to start to do more evangelism into the bush area, but these trips are not financed by Iris as our base does not have money to help with this. I have been given permission to use our Iris vehicles and sound system for evangelism, but I have to pray for God to supply for these trips (diesel, food, offering to pastors we visit, needs for sound system such as oil etc.) The support I receive helps with all my personal needs, flights (within Mozambique and between America and Mozambique), all visa/DIRE issues, medical and travel insurance (which is required by Iris), communication (phone and internet) and other special projects such as building a home for widows, help pastors with orphans they care for and anything else the Father tells me to help with.

As I have said before, without your prayer and financial support I could not be here. Please know that every transformed life and every person who hears the Good News of Jesus Christ is part of the harvest that we are reaping together. In January I would like to return to the District of Buzi for another evangelism trip. Right now I am praying and planning on going to three places in this region. One place I want to go is named Bândua. The people of Bândua have never heard the Gospel message before. They are a people that are lost in ancestral worship and traditions of the witchdoctor. When I spoke with Pastor Miquel about this place my heart was lit with passion and fire to go to these people and bring them Jesus. The second place is named Estãquinha. In this place we have a church, but it is basically non-existent as the people are lost in sin and witchcraft so my heart is to go there and spend a day evangelizing house-to-house and doing discipleship in the church with a strong salvation message in the evening. The last place is in the Village of Buzi (which is within the District of Buzi) to visit and encourage a church that was just planted after our last visit there in October. Right now this is my heart and vision which I am praying about doing. Please join in prayer with me for this trip that it would happen in God’s timing and that the people’s hearts will be ready. Also for protection and that the rains would be held back as we are in the rainy season.

Another door has opened to me to go to a place near Buzi which is a sacred place for Muslims. There is no church there and no Christians that we know of. I heard there is a small group of about 5 or 10 people who want to live for Jesus, but are oppressed greatly by the Muslim tradition. I am praying for God’s timing when I can go to this place to preach the Gospel, but it must be in God’s timing as it is dangerous.

A Praise Report: On November 30th I went to the immigration office in Beira and picked up my DIRE. I am now officially a resident of Mozambique . This is a big blessing and the end of a long wait in prayer. As a resident I can freely come and go from Mozambique as I need without dealing with visas with the exception of renewing my DIRE each year.

May God’s continued blessings rest upon each of you and your families this beautiful season.

With a heart full of gratitude for what the Lord has done!
Ashlee

Mozambique - Heart of Joy - November 9, 2007

2007-11-27T13:31:00.000-08:00

November 9, 2007

Hello from a very hot and humid Mozambique . Yes, we are entering into our rainy season. Temperatures have been in the 90 degree range with humidity in the 70% range. We are only beginning summer. J A couple of days ago I was entertained by a small cyclone that whipped through the area knocking down many branches and mangos from the trees, as well as toppling over one of the mango trees in our mango grove. Last night, November 8, after our Bible School graduation, Father was lightening up the sky with His fantastic fireworks which we call thunder and lightening. It was spectacular.

Since the first of October I have been traveling a great deal. I spent two weeks in Pemba where I had an amazing time of rest, great fun and being loved on by precious friends. It was fantastic…exactly what I needed and had asked Father for. While in Pemba the Holy Spirit refreshed me and filled me with His great joy. He reminded me of the vision He had placed in my heart before coming to Mozambique …the heart of an evangelist and more specifically bush evangelism. Upon coming back to Dondo my heart was rekindled with His great joy and purpose. Also while in Pemba I had the wonderful opportunity to spend a lot of time with my precious Mozambiquen brother and friend Chico . The last time I saw Chico was 1 ½ years ago when I was in Pemba . The reunion was sweet. He really blew me away with thanksgiving to Jesus to see what God is doing in his life. I was really blessed and spoiled at times by Chico while there….it was great fun. During the last three days that I was in Pemba I went on an outreach into the bush with Chico , two other long term missionaries, Mozambique students from the Bible School and students from the Holy Given Missions School. Such joy was sparked in my heart as I lead a group of these people into the village to witness and pray for the sick. Words of knowledge were flowing and hearts were being touched and transformed with each person I encountered. There is so much I could say about this trip that it could fill a chapter in a book talking about the marvelous things that God did. It was really fun helping lead this team of Mozambiquen and international students into the bush to see God’s kingdom invade. To give a taste of what God was doing I will tell of our ride back to Pemba . The Sunday when we were on our way back to Pemba our trucks tire went flat so we had to stop on the side of the road to fix it. Well, to fix anything like a tire when you are away from home in Africa is not a small task and takes time. Thankfully where we ended up stopping was in front of a bar and across the road from a market. Knowing it would be no small task to fix the tire on the truck we went into the bar to drink sodas and rest while a few guys worked on the flat tire issue. The individual working in the bar was a boy of about 12 years of age. I asked to speak with the individual who worked there and they said this young boy was the owner. His Dad had died and left his son (this young boy) to take his place in running the bar. Nothing seems to surprise me anymore here in Mozambique . During these three days I felt like everywhere I went the Holy Spirit kept bringing me divine appointments, including in the bar. A man that was in the bar was trying to speak with one of the missions students, but since the student did not speak Portuguese he did not understand so I went to interpret for him. The man was asking for a job. As I looked into his eyes I saw that he was a very broken individual that was without hope. As he sat there with a glass of alcohol in front of him and a muslim hat on his head he began to tell me how both his parents had died during the war, he was without work and how he had no one to go to for help. He said, “You can ask anyone here. They all know I am suffering that is why I am here trying to bring some peace to all the thoughts.” From that point I stepped in with the love and power of the Holy Spirit guiding Him to Jesus. His eyes filled with tears as he gazed towards the ground as if wondering if what I was saying was truth, yet knowing it was. There was another gentleman who was sitting with him in the bar on that day who kept encouraging him to listen to what I was saying. The mission school student and myself prayed for him and when we were finished another man who was just passing through and heard what I was saying came up to him and told him to listen and follow what was just told to him because it was truth. This passer-bier told me how he used to go to church, but “had been away from God” for many years but he knew it was truth. Again, another divine appointment opened up to minister to this person who was ‘just passing by’. God knew why we had to stop at that bar on that cloudy Sunday afternoon.

When I arrived back in Dondo I was only here for about two days before I had to leave again for Zimpeto and then off to South Africa . I took one of our boys, Nelson, to our base in Zimpeto so that he could have some tests done on his brain as he has had a few episodes of seizures which have become more violent. Since they only could do the tests at the Maputo hospital I left him in the care of a precious friend and nurse, Iara, who is at our Zimpeto base while Lisa and myself went to South Africa to apply for our residency visas so we can get our DIREs. Well, God granted us great favor and we got our residency visas that we need to apply for our DIREs. Praise Jesus!!! All of Nelson’s tests came back clear. Another Praise Jesus!!! But the doctor has put him on epilepsy medicine which he has to take twice a day. I am declaring healing in Nelson. Nelson was our first boy to ever fly in an airplane or go anywhere as far as Zimpeto so it was a big adventure and excitement not only for him, but the rest of our boys. Of course they all want to go to Zimpeto to visit….especially since Zimpeto gets big loafs of bread for breakfast where we get small ones. J

When I arrived back in Dondo after my trip to Zimpeto and South Africa I was only home for two days before leaving again to Buzi to do outreach in the Bush. Pastor Miquel had asked me to preach at his church the first Sunday in November almost two months prior. He had wanted me to come to Buzi even before I went to the states last November so my heart was joyous that I was finally able to go and I knew in my spirit that it was God’s timing. Not knowing what lay ahead of the team and myself we took off Saturday afternoon, November 3. We were a team of 5 which the Holy Spirit had showed me to take with me on this journey. Saturday evening we ended up going to a refugee camp where there were victims from last years flooding still trying to put the pieces back together of life and materials lost in the masses of water. I had asked Joao (one of our team members who works with us here in the center and used to be one of my third year students) to preach on salvation. The word went forth in great clarity and conviction as the Holy Spirit touched those who stood around us that dark, starry evening. It was a night with bugs inundating our flood lights and dust filling the air, but these things did not bother me as Jesus was being made King in this refugee camp that night. The next morning we traveled at least two hours into the bush to a church where they had not had anyone visit them for almost 8 years. What a privilege it was to set foot in that place. When I entered the church I felt the peace of God residing there. It was at that church in the bush with those beautiful people that I preached my first message in Portuguese without having a translator. The only translator was from my Portuguese into the local dialect. I know God is telling me it is time to step over this hurdle as I have not felt confident enough to preach in Portuguese, though I always communicate in it. I have always felt it was a different level of language learning, but that day in that church the Holy Spirit anointed my mouth and filled it with His words in Portuguese. It was awesome and freeing. Upon our departure the church gave us two goats as an offering. They really blessed us. This was my first time getting goats as an offering and it made me remember the first time I received my first chicken offering last year. Now some may wonder what I did with the goats…well, one goat went to our provincial pastor and the other goat was used to feed everyone here at the center lunch and dinner today. After we left this church we headed to Pastor Miquel’s home to pack up and leave, but on our arrival we found that people had gathered in a nearby church and were waiting for us to come. They had been waiting since noon and it was already 4 o’clock. When I heard this information I knew we had to go and minister to these people. As we went I asked the Holy Spirit to do whatever He wanted because I was not going to be concerned about time or gas (as we did not know if we would make it back to Dondo…but He multiplied our diesel). When I entered that church I felt Jesus there. My heart was moved with compassion as I gazed upon these people and knew I had to come back to this church one day. Shortly after this Joao leaned to me and said “Mana Ashlee we have to come back to this church”. We shared a short word of encouragement and then felt like we were supposed to pray for whoever wanted prayer. Well, that was it…..the place lit up with such a strong presence of Jesus…..the power of God was there….deliverances and I am sure healings took place. It was a very powerful time. On the drive back to Dondo my heart was overflowing with joy though my body was tired as I was doing what I was made for…..The Lord did many other wonderful things on this trip not only with the people we ministered to, but also the members of the team I took. My God is a mighty God!!

Upon my arrival back to Dondo I had an opportunity to share my heart with Marcia (our base director). I have been given full release to take a team out to do outreach evangelism. Please pray for me in this area as these trips are not physically easy and are costly. I am asking for Father’s perspective as He knows where and when we should go. He has all the blueprints and is ready to give them as I surrender. I look forward to see all He has in store.

“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners….” Isaiah 61

May the Lord bless you. May the Lord keep you. May the Lord cause His face to shine on you! Through the joys and through the disappointments; in the scarcity and in the abundance He is still God!! Many blessings and love to each one of you. Thank you for sharing with me in the Harvest. Thank you for laboring with me as we work together to see Jesus ultimately glorified.

Much Love,
Ashlee

Chiquita is home - update September 24, 2007

2007-11-27T13:26:00.000-08:00

Hello,
Chiquita, the widow who was blind and just had cataract surgery, came home today. I am sending a picture so you can put some names to faces. In the picture from left to right is me, Mama Maria, Mama Catarina and Chiquita. After Mama Catarina and Chiquita's arrival from the hospital they called me to come see how Chiquita was doing. It was so marvelous to see her happy. She had to show me that she could now walk by herself and was able to do things for herself. Today she did not have to have anyone hold her hand to guide her from the hospital back to Dondo, she was able to walk by herself. Mama Maria, Mama Catarina and myself were getting a great laugh from the joy that Chiquita was displaying because "Jesus saved her" as she kept saying. She said that it would be better to die than to live like she was blind. Tears of joy weld up in my eyes many times as I sat with these beautiful ladies and shared in the joy of Chiquita being able to see out of one eye...so far. :) Even her family who rejected her is amazed. We are praying for a quick and smooth recovery of her eye.

Many blessings!
As you see this picture...enjoy their beautiful faces.....and when their names come to mind please keep them/us in prayer. :)
Ashlee

Touching the Father's heart - update September 21, 2007

2007-11-27T13:25:00.000-08:00

Greetings to Everyone!

It has been a while since I have sent an update so many may be wondering what has happened to Ashlee??? J I am still here and very alive. These past months have gone by like the wind as there is never a dull time here. Lisa and I are still here alone at the base, but Marcia is returning at the end of September. I can honestly say that I am ready for some Ashlee time. Because of this I am planning on going to Pemba and Nampula October 8th for about 11 days to rest and hang out with Jesus. I am looking forward to visiting some friends I have not seen in a very long time as well. I am ready to have some fun and relaxation.

CLINIC
I usually tell what God is doing in the Bible School and with our boys, but this time I want to tell you about what has been happening in the clinic. As many of you know upon my arrival back to Dondo at the end of April I picked up the responsibility of the clinic again. Nurse Amadi (Mozambiquen that I worked with before I left for the States) had just turned in his resignation and we had hired a new doctor to work in his place. The new doctor’s name is Dr. Neves (“Neves” means snow in English). It has been such a big blessing to work with him. He is a very well respected and well known individual here in Dondo. Though he only comes two days a week to check-up on anyone who is ill he is always available to me when I need to call him. He has been having fun teaching me things as well. My heart is to see him know Jesus with his whole heart and life. God has been using me to be salt and life to him.

Praise report! God has given me a good dentist to take the boys to!! Hallelujah!!! Before Marcia left she had given me a number to a dentist that she sees in Beira when she needs something done with her teeth. I had quite a few of our boys that were having severe problems with their teeth, but did not feel confident in the treatment that they would get at the Beira Central Hospital . I had tried to call this dentist many times, but his phone was always off. I figured he was out of the country and not sure if or when he would be back. It came to a point when I had to take the boys some place so I tried taking them to the hospital where there is a dental clinic, but after three trips there without success I was a bit frustrated. The whole time I was praying for God to show me what to do as I did not want to see their teeth end up in worse shape than when they started. So….I was going to try to make another appointment for our boys to go to the dentist again in Beira when the Holy Spirit spoke to me and said “try Clerysnan again”. Clerysnan is the dentist that Marcia had recommended. So I picked up the phone and tried his number…..this time it started ringing and on the other end a man’s voice said ‘hello’. It was Clerysnan and he had just arrived in Mozambique . He was still at the airport waiting for his bags!! The rest is history from there. J This last Saturday I took 9 of our boys to see him and his wife. Clerysnan and his wife are Christians and basically gave us dental care for the cost of the materials….what an amazing blessing. While each boy was being treated, Clerysnan’s wife was in another room teaching the others about dental care. It was a great lesson for each of them to hear. This Saturday I am taking 5 boys again to see him as they still need treatment. Jesus is faithful in all things….even our physically needs. J

WIDOWS
Here in Mozambique there are so many widows that are forsaken. Our church is filled with many of these women. With this comes responsibility on our part as the family of God. The sad thing is that the church has not been helping them so God has been allowing me to pour out His love on them in a very practical way. Right now one of these women just received cataract surgery. Over three months ago she completely lost her sight. Her family has neglected her and would not help her. There she sat at home with no one to help. When I was made aware of the situation I knew I had to help. When I said that we would help her she got a bit worried because she thought we would also abandon her and then who would she have….but Jesus does not abandon us….He loves us all the way through to wholeness!!! With the help of Mama Maria (who works with our boys and brought this lady to my attention) we found another woman; Catarina, in our church who offered to help this widow/grandma. Mama Catarina has treated her like her own mom who she lost years ago. She is the one who took this widow to the hospital and continues to visit and bring food to her. This widow had surgery on one of her eyes on Wednesday and will be able to come back home on Friday or Saturday. In about 2 months we will help her with the process of getting surgery on her other eye. Mama Maria, Mama Catarina and I are rejoicing and praying for quick recovery.

God has also given me the privilege to help others. Right now we are treating another widow. Her name is Queen in English (Reinha in Portuguese). Her hands, feet and knees are filled with mantikanhas (worms). She also has no one to help her, so we are. When I visited with her and Margarita (another widow who was very ill and we helped) both women were vibrant and full of life and joy. Jesus has really touched my heart for these precious ones that have been forgotten by society, but not by Him!!! J

BIBLE SCHOOL
Just a quick note about Bible School …we have started a new session and I have 9 students right now. Most of them are from the Zambezia and Tete Provinces . Since I will be away for a bit in October I am teaching more often each week so we do not get behind. It has been such a joy teaching. The interaction that I have with my students is fun and causes them to really think and apply the truths of the Word to their lives. So far these 9 students have been a joy to interact with as I challenge them to dig deeper. J

“This is pure and undefiled religion in the sight of our God and Father, to visit orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself unstained by the world.” James 1:27

Many thanks to all those who have been praying for me and supporting me financially. As I have said before, I could not be here if it were not for your sacrifices of love. Thank you!

Truly Together in the Harvest!
Ashlee

August 17, 2007 - Apples and Eggs

2007-11-27T13:00:00.000-08:00

Let’s have some fun!
So if you are looking to have some fun why not do an egg toss with 31 boys?! Not just any 31 boys, but 31 boys who live in Mozambique , Africa and value an egg completely different than a boy in a first world county. Well, guess what? I did just this. On Saturday, July 28 we had the 2nd anniversary of our boy’s birthday party here at our center in Dondo and it was a blast. The egg toss with the added bobbing for apples kick were enough to make anyone’s belly hurt from laughing so hard. The faces of our beautiful boys were full of tenaciousness as the object of the egg toss was not to be the first team finished, but was to be so careful with the egg as not to break it because they wanted to save it and eat it later. And in the event that the egg did go splat against one of their chests as their teammate threw it too hard or it was crushed in their hands the whole team would run to eat the raw egg quickly before continuing to the next egg. It was such a sight to see. I knew their reaction to the egg toss would be very different than children’s in the States, but I did not know what exactly to expect.

And then bobbing for apples came….it was a time to conquer as they had to walk on their hands with a friend helping them– wheel barrel style – and then grab the apple with their mouth…no hands allowed! This year our little boys did much better as they learned last year from our bigger boys to dunk their whole head in the bucket to grab the apple. Their faces of tenacious energy were absolutely great! You would have thought they had never had a maca (apple) before. J It was a blessed time.

Cade is back home!
This past Sunday afternoon Esau and Cade had a special service to dedicate Princila to the Lord. The first thing they did during this time was thank God for his miracle of healing in Cade’s body. On Tuesday evening Esau and Cade, with their two children, moved back into their home. Hallelujah!!! I have attached a picture of myself with Cade and Princila on the day of the dedication. They are both happy and healthy!

New Library
We recently had a visitor come and bless our base with a library for our children and Bible School students. She brought one laptop computer with a typing program so that our children can begin to learn how to type and use the computer. The boys are enthusiastic to learn to type and are enjoying the library very much. It has been great to see what types of books each boy chooses to look through. Some enjoy books about space, others like things about the human body, and there are quite a few who are enjoying the English dictionaries. Our little boys in particular like the fact that they now have a good place to come and draw/color. Our older boys are really enjoying having a place to listen to the variety of praise and worship CDs/cassettes we have.

Trip to Caia
I just got back from a three day trip to the district of Caia which is about 6 hours drive from my home in Dondo. It was great to once again be in the home of Pastor Phombo and his family and see the work that God is doing in this district. On the very last night Pastor Phombo took us to Chirimadze. As he spoke about this place and told us that the chief of the village would be there he had fire in his eyes. He had such a fire of passion in his heart to see this chief come to know Jesus this very night. There was such unity amongst the team as we lead the people in praise and dance before Jesus. At first the people who were there were hesitant and just stood and watched, but as some time went by they began to join in and their faces brightened with joy. I still have the face of one woman who was close to me engraved in my mind. She was short in stature and wearing a capulana (African skirt) as usual with a green and blue head wrap. She kept looking up at me with hesitation masked with a smile. At first she just looked at me and then she began to move a bit. As she joined in the celebration of dance with us her face began to shine more. The whole night was absolutely beautiful under the starry sky. We showed the Passion of the Christ movie and explained it to the crowd in Cisena as it was playing. At the end of the movie Pastor Phombo got up and spoke with an invitation to come to Jesus. Many people came quickly to the front to surrender to Jesus. This night we would plant a new church in a place where there was none. We presented to the people the man who would pastor the church along with the secretary. We also honored and blessed the chief of the village as he accepted to fully work with us. My heart was so happy! I felt Jesus smile! The next step is that a physical “building” will be put in this village so they can have a place to meet for church. The next day the man put in place as pastor of the new church in Chirimadze went door to door through out the village to do follow-up.

The work is so great here, but the laborers are few. I am physically very tired after this trip, but it was well worth it and I am looking greatly forward to visiting Chirimadze hopefully in the near future. My heart has been really burning to go out into the surrounding areas again to preach and teach, but with only Lisa and myself here at the base right now it is not really possible. Please pray for God’s timing and guidance in this desire that He has placed so strongly within me.

Thank you again for your love and support. “For this reason I too, having heard of the faith in the Lord Jesus which exists among you, and your love for all the saints, do not cease giving thanks for you, while making mention of you in my prayers.” (Ephesians 1:15-16)

All glory to Him who is ultimately faithful!!
Ashlee

I serve a Mighty God! (update July 18, 2007)

2007-11-27T12:54:00.000-08:00

Greetings from the beautiful land of Mozambique !

My God is a mighty God…mighty to save, heal and deliver. He is full of mercy, love and grace! My absence in sending an update on my friend Cade and life here has been purely lack of time and I apologize for this. I have been preparing for the departure of Julie (a new missionary who came last November) and Marcia (the director of our base). As of Saturday, July 21 Lisa and I will be the only missionaries here on our base which leaves us with a lot of added responsibilities. Marcia (from Brazil ) and Julie (from Canada ) are going to be gone for about 2 or 3 months for a time of rest. Please keep us in your prayers.

Update on Cade

I mentioned in my last update that Cade’s husband took her out of the hospital and told the doctors that they were going to seek spiritual help from our great physician Jesus. Well, since that time Cade has been resting in a mission house that her church has built. Each time I have gone to visit Cade she has been surrounded by people who love her and worship music playing. I have felt very much that I have been fighting in this spiritual war with Cade and her family. Many nights I could hardly sleep. BUT….last week on Tuesday I got a phone call from Cade. She told me that she was doing much, much better. I began asking her questions to see how much better she was….She began to tell me that she could move her arm completely and her leg. She was even able to walk, but still was gaining strength in her leg. My heart was so ecstatic….I kept thanking Jesus and saying ‘hallelujah’! When I visited her the other day she was outside visiting some women that had come to visit her. She is now able to nurse Princila (I misspelled her name in the last email) and completely take care of her. She does not have anymore problems with pain in her head and no more problems with her heart!! She is able to walk by herself!!! The only thing that is left is that her left foot is quite swollen and does not have complete movement when she walks so we are still declaring the complete healing of this foot. Once she is fully back to full health she will be going back to her home. Right now her husband and children are staying with her at the mission so that they can be together. My God is a mighty God!!

Birthday Party

Next Saturday, July 28 we are going to have a birthday party for our boys like we did last year. This will be the second one they have ever had.

Women’s Conference in Amatonga

This past Saturday, July 14, I was invited to speak at a women’s conference in Amatonga which is about 2 hours from where I live in Dondo. Julie, Lisa and I left home in Dondo about 5:30 am to set out for a great time. Both Lisa and I preached during our time there. Before leaving Dondo the Holy Spirit so beautiful prepared both of our hearts with the words that he wanted to speak. It was amazing to see that where I left off in my message in the morning Lisa picked up in the afternoon. At the very end we had a time of washing the women’s feet. It was the very first time for these women to have their feet washed as Jesus had demonstrated to His disciples. The presence of God was very strong and women were spontaneously delivered. I felt that deep roots of prejudice and hurt were being uprooted and healed in some as we washed their feet. I’ll never forget this older women whose feet I began to wash. As I looked up into her face with a kind smile of love she looked down at me with tear filled eyes. I knew the Holy Spirit was healing deep hurts of slavery – I could feel it so strongly in my spirit. It was a really beautiful and powerful time. As a missionary ministering in a man’s world were women and children ‘are the least of these’ it was such a blessing to love on these women who many have had such harsh lives and been so trampled upon. I have attached a couple pictures of our time during this conference.

To each of you that has been praying for my friend Cade…a big thank you! For those that have been praying for me and have given financially….a huge thank you as well!! My prayer is that you will see the fruit of your labor of love in your daily lives. I have been gearing my heart to be prepared for this next season of time and praying for God’s continued wisdom and grace to cover it all. I want to leave you with one more thought from Scripture…”But be doers of the word, and not hearers only…” (James 1:22) Let’s go out in victory and see this world transformed by the love of Jesus!!!

Grace and peace to each one of you!
Together in the Harvest,
Ashlee

Update July 9, 2007

2007-07-25T00:00:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday I went to the hospital to visit Cade. Before I arrived Esau had told me that she had been moved to another section in the hospital. When I walked into the area where she was at I felt a very strong spirit of death which filled that place. There were people (all women as it was a place for women only) laying on mats on the floor. It looked as though they were only but a pile of bones laying underneath a thin sheet. It looked like a place where they put people to die.

At the end of the hallway in this section was my friend Cade sitting on a mattress. As I approached her so began to cry. Lisa, who came with me this time, hugged her as we loved on her together and encouraged her. We stayed as long as we could until we had to leave because visiting hours were over. Before leaving we prayed over Cade and her Mom (who was staying with her in the hospital).

That night Cade began to move her arm. Since Tuesday Esau has taken Cade out of the hospital as that was no place for his wife to be. On Thursday he signed a declaration for the hospital that he was going to seek spiritual help - Doctor Jesus. Cade is staying with her family in a missions house that he church has until she fully recovers.

As of today she has movement in her left arm, but very weak and some movement in her left leg. Her left foot is completely paralyzed still and she still has difficulties with her heart as it keeps beating very hard. She is still not able to nurse Pricilla.

When I visited her today she did not mention if she had any convulsions today, but I know that she did have them on Friday, but not Saturday. Each time I have gone to the house to visit her praise and worship has been playing and people who love and care for her surrounding her with love.

Esau and the rest of her family are very happy to have her back close to them again, but the battle is not over as there is still more to go until she is completely restored. Please continue to hold them up in prayer.

In His Peace and Joy,
Ashlee

Update July 3, 2007

2007-07-24T23:59:00.001-07:00

The following text is an update on my friend Cade. It is from a conversation I had with my Mom via SMS messaging.

"I just called Esau, Cade’s husband and spoke with him regarding Cade’s current situation. Yesterday she was not doing so well so today he was going to go to the hospital early in the morning, but when he woke up his mother-in-law called and said that Cade was doing a lot better so someone only needed to go to the hospital in the afternoon. But around 1:00ish she had another convulsion attack and was crying out ‘help me Jesus, help me Momma’. Esau said that when he heard the news this morning that she was better he was so happy, but when he heard this afternoon about the attack his heart was hurt until he was about crying.

Esau said that Joel is doing much better (remember this is their son who was ill). He is just a bit weak because of getting over the illness, but thanks to Jesus he is doing better. Tomorrow Esau has to look for someone to take care of Pricilla for them as she cannot stay in the hospital anymore. Cade is not able to nurse her because when she has tried her heart starts beating/racing really hard.

Esau knows it is an attack of the enemy and says he will not waver in his faith. He was very thankful that I sent out the prayer request to my family and friends. We are going to take Claudia out to eat tomorrow as a going away dinner, but I am going to see if we can stop at the hospital and visit Cade as I really miss her and want to see her. We will be in town so I don't see why we can't and I know it would really bless her. If I were to say that I had a best friend (Mozambiquen) here in Mozambique, it would be Cade. She has always been a delight to be with and a person who speaks forth truth.

Esau told me today that the doctor that is working with Cade now is looking for a doctor that knows more about her situation and works with people who are paralyzed. They took a urine test today for some reason, but the test results have not come back yet. He also told me that the doctors were telling him that he needed to take her to the witchdoctors as that was her only hope for an illness like this.

Dad and Momma says: we know that is a lie from the pit of hell. Our God is an awesome God who heals! This will be a testimony to that fact.

It is definitely a fight, but I told him that I was not giving up. I have felt that someone(s) needs to read Scripture to her which will encourage her spirit, as well as declare God's goodness over her life. All Cade keeps asking for is prayer. Esau really witnessed to this idea and so he is going to tell people to do this when they go and visit her in the hospital. Also, I told him that I wish we could surround her with worship and he said that he felt this very much too so today when he visited her he prayed with her and they worshiped together. What a beautiful thing. It is beautiful to see a Mozambiquen man who really loves and treasures his wife."

Thanks so much to each of you that are standing with us, unwavering in faith for Cade’s total restoration. She is young and has many years of good life in front of her. We need her here in Mozambique to declare God’s kingdom in this promise land. A big thank you from the deepest parts of my heart and from Cade’s family as they know you are praying. Remember God’s promise in Exodus 15:26 "...for I am the Lord who heals you.” Cade's healing/health has already been paid for through Jesus….His blood was and is enough!!

For His Glory!!!
Ashlee

Update addon

2007-07-24T23:58:00.001-07:00

Just talked with Ashlee. Cade's son has been taken to the hospital. They believe he may have Malaria. He has been given medicine but has not improve but gotten worse and are trying other medicines.

Please hold this family up. They really needs God's strength through all of this.

Karen

Update June 29 2007

2007-07-24T23:53:00.000-07:00

Dear Family and Friends,

Grace to you! My God is an awesome God! This letter comes to you filled with faith and a request for prayer. I am asking for God’s children – His Warrior Bride – to stand with me for my very good friend Cade. Many of you may remember me talking/writing to you about her. I love her and her family very deeply. She is a very precious person who loves Jesus so much and truly illuminates Jesus. I just got back from visiting her in the hospital as she is contending with something very serious and it is for this reason that I am writing to you this evening.

Good news is that Cade (and her husband Esau) gave birth to her second child on June 20. She now has a beautiful baby girl named Pricilla. I got to visit Cade the day that she gave birth to Pricilla and she was doing very well and full of joy. Everything went well until yesterday morning.

Cade woke up with a severe headache and had called for her sister-in-law Ceu (means Heaven in English) to come help with the children while she went to the hospital, but before she could even leave her left leg stopped working and she could not walk on it. They some how got her to the hospital by using a motorbike, but when she got to the hospital and got off of the bike she fell to the ground in convulsions. Ceu said that a crowd was all around Cade and she could not even look at her because all she could do was cry. The hospital took her in and gave her some meds, but said that she needed to be transferred to the Central Hospital of Beira.

Cade had more than one episode of convulsions which were very hard on her body. Esau (her husband) called me in the morning right after this happened in Dondo, but unfortunately I was on my way to Beira to do a few errands in the early morning and so could not go to the hospital to see her (I did not know exactly what happened, but new she “was sick”). When I got back to Dondo Esau called to let me know Cade was going to Beira so I was not able to see her yesterday.

I knew in my spirit that something serious was happening with her before I even heard the news. I was told what happened later on in the day by one of her sisters. Today I went with two of Cade’s sisters and Ceu to visit her in the hospital in Beira. When we walked in her room at the hospital it was difficult at first to see her like she was but I just took her by the hand and began to speak life to her.

She cried and said “Mana Ashlee please pray for me”. We gathered around her and prayed for her, declaring God’s promise of healing and health over her body and His peace to overpass her. She is not able to move her left arm or leg, but she can feel when people touch her. She can move her fingers on her left hand, but that is it. Her headache is gone and she has not had anymore convulsions/seizures today. She said that yesterday she would get extreme tension in her head and then the convulsions/seizures would begin.

She has not been able to nurse Pricilla yesterday or today, but thankfully Esau was able to get milk for her today and so Pricilla was able to eat. I can’t say how much I love this family. Jesus’ heart is so big for this family and His love and grace are sufficient. My natural mind would want to tell me there is no hope and think of what is happening to my precious friend Cade, but I am fighting with her in this spiritual battle and we have and will win because Jesus’ blood was too precious to be spilt for nothing….His blood and strips already paid for this so Cade does not need to carry or contend with it.

Please stand with me for my friend Cade’s life. She has two children, Pricilla and Joel (her son who is about 6). I have attached a picture of Cade and me so that you can put a face to her name. She is Chico’s sister for those who remember me speaking about Chico. The picture was taken before I left to visit America in November.

God bless you and THANK YOU!!!
Ashlee

June 09, 2007 - UPDATE!

2007-06-09T11:35:00.000-07:00

Dear Beloved Family and Friends,

I pray that this letter finds you all well and joyous. Life has been continuing on here as usual and I can hardly believe that I have been back for over a month already. Time has flown by so quickly, yet at the same time I feel as though I have been back for at least 3 months already.

A quick update on the boys:

As I stated in my last newsletter that when I first came back things were not going so well with the boys so we had to put boundaries and guidance back in place. Things are getting back on track and almost all of the boys are back in school, as well as the stealing problem has diminished greatly. I have had many opportunities to talk with many of the boys about respect, responsibility and having conversation that pleases God. This has been a joy for me to be back and involved in their lives. Since we have 30 boys who are all in school and need a lot of supervision and care in this area we have developed a plan to help them succeed in their education. I am in charge of all the boys that attend one of our primary schools close by call Josina, as well as one of our boys who is in the secondary school (Zacharias).

I am responsible for about 9 of the boys which in itself is a lot of work, but enjoyable as I get to interact with the teachers, directors and other students at this school. Of course there are many challenges with this as schools here are so different compared to schools in the West. Needless to say I am learning a lot – hard things to see along with the good. This Sunday afternoon Lisa and myself are going to do something special with the boys as we were not here for Children’s Day which was June 1st. It was a national holiday for Mozambique when they celebrate children. I am going to make them tuna casserole for supper which we have made for them before and really like.

Before I came back to Mozambique I received a precious offering for our boys from a beautiful family who had visited us here in Mozambique. They have 3 children who saved their personal money to give as an offering for our boys. This touched my heart so much. Because of their gift I am going to be able to buy our boys new blankets which is a praise report as we are entering our winter and it does get cold at night. Right now it is 9:40 pm and the temperature is 72 degrees with a humidity of 79%. This is actually pretty cold for here. Even as I write this I am wearing a long sleeve jacket and pants.

Quick update on my students:

My class is doing well. The Holy Spirit has been really guiding me as I teach each lesson. During one class the Holy Spirit prompted me to teach my lesson on “the problem and the response” which is basically about salvation and repentance…being pure in God’s sight. Jesus was so close and I felt such a fire and compassion as I taught. At the end I felt so strongly to give an opportunity for my students to respond to what they heard so I threw a net out for anyone who wanted to receive this salvation and get right before God. What followed completely blew me away as one of my students stepped forward and began to repent by saying he had cut his relationship off from God, but he did not want this anymore.

As more students began to come forward with different things I kept telling them that what they were doing was a symbol of surrender before God and that it had nothing to do with me or anyone else in the room. More than half the class came forward for pray. As they knelt with their eyes and hearts lifted to Jesus I felt Jesus Himself standing there with us. It was so amazing. God is really doing something in their lives. That same day another student said that he had wanted to quit the Bible School and go back home, but now his heart has changed and he is here with us. The one who said that he had cut his relationship off with the Father is now full of joy and I can completely see a difference in him. Please continue to pray for these students and that I continue to be sensitive to what Father is asking of me. I always want to be that sword in His hand that He can wield anytime He wants.

Quick update on me personally:

Glory be to God that He has kept me in health and is protecting me. I had been feeling a bit weak and one day even a bit concerned that malaria was trying to touch me, but I kept standing on God’s word and have not had any problems since. I will be honest with you all that there are some really tough things going on, but I just keep on being hidden in Jesus and continue to examine my heart. Without going into detail it has been a time that I am learning to guard my heart and what it means in 1 Corinthians 13:5 (amplified version) when it says “Love (God’s love in us) does not insist on its own right or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it (it pays no attention to a suffered wrong).” I can tell you it has not been the easiest thing to live this out, but it is good. When the fires of life come I always say we must cling to the cross….so I am clinging to the cross and He is sharpening me through it all. How amazing to walk with Jesus who is so faithful.

I have attached a picture of me and the boys watering our new grass and flowers. One of the boys took it. :) (click on it to see a bigger version)

I want to thank those who have been keeping me in prayer and for those who have kept in touch with me while I have been back. The cost of being away from family and friends is greater than I can say, so it is always amazing to hear from you. Also, thank you so much to those who have been faithful in supporting me financially (you know who you are). Without your financially support I would not be able to be here. Thank you!

Muito Amor em Cristo! (A lot of Love in Christ)!
Ashlee (aka: Mana Ashlee) J

To send packages:
Ministerio Arco Iris
Attn: Ashlee Cladek-Fletcher
Caixa Postal 1237
Beira Mozambique
Africa

Tax deductible giving:
FireStarters Ministries
18923 – 217th AVE E
Orting, WA 98360
(please put a note “For Mozambique Mission”)

www.ashleecladek.blogspot.com
Ashleecl@yahoo.com

Adopt a child in prayer

2007-05-10T11:13:00.000-07:00

For those that are interested....Lisa had sent out an idea to her list of people who support her about an idea we had to have someone who specifically will pray for one of our boys (soon girls). But not all of our boys have someone praying specifically for them yet so I am sending it to you to see if anyone feels lead to take one or even two children that they will adopt in prayer?

I know many pray for all of them (us), but this would be a little different. Our boys know who is praying for them and many times ask. If you felt God saying something to them or just wanted to send an encouragement you could do this as well.

So if God is touching your heart to partner with us in this please email me back and I can send you a name and with their picture. I know there is great power in this as Father hears our prayers. And if your child is going through a rough time I would let you know....it's like an adoption....only it is through prayer.

Together in the Harvest.

Ashlee

Back in Mozambique!

2007-05-10T11:09:00.000-07:00

Hello from Dondo!!

What a long journey it was getting here, but it is so wonderful to be back. We have had problems with our internet so I have not been able to be in communication by email until now. Today a few of us came to Beira to an internet place so we could send emails and do other necessary work. I had written up a newsletter of everything that has been taking place since me arrival, but when I tried to put it on a blank CD which I bought here in Beira it would not work...But thankfully I am able to attach a picture of Lisa and myself with some of our boys after we arrived.

As I said, it is really great to be back. The welcome home to Dondo has been very warm and full of joy. When I am able I will send the newsletter I originally wrote, but for now I will tell you a bit of what has been taking place. Many things have just recently changed at our center of which some are big blessings. We now have three pastors who have joined our team to work with our boys. They will be trading off and on as their working shifts dictate, but it truly is an answer to prayer that God has sent us not only one, but three Mozambiquen men to be examples to our boys.

When Lisa and I arrived on the base we were welcomed with our boys chasing the car with great laughter as they tried to jump in to give us hugs and welcome us back. It has been such a testimony with our return that we did not abandon them like so many others have. I feel our return has given them some stability.

This next week we are starting up the next session of Bible School which we are expecting to have around 70 students. Ten of these students will hopefully be women. There is a great expectation and excitement in my spirit to begin teaching again. Many students have already arrived on our base, but we continue to receive new people each day. It brings great joy to know that Jesus has hand picked each one to be with us during this Bible School as I know He has great things planned for each of their lives.

For those that have been praying for Goncalves he is still not living with us at the base as he has not changed his ways. I see him almost everyday and continue to love and speak truth and life to him. The enemy has not won this battle as I have not given up and will still fight for victory in Goncalves life. He knows he has to make the choice to change, but right now he does not want to.

As I mentioned to some while in the states we have some new children. We actually have three new boys; Josia, Zacharias and Rui. Josia and Zacharias are brothers - very sweet boys. Rui is a very simple boy, but so full of joy. He has no family except his aunt who kicked him out because he is simple - they say she is crazy too. But Jesus loves each of these and I am so thankful that He has entrusted them in our hands.

Since being back I found out that the director in Beira who Lisa and I had difficulties with is supposed to be leaving Beira in August to go to Pemba. Some one new will be taking his place in Beira....I think it is an answer to prayer. :)

Thank you to each of you for all of your love, prayers and support. May you see the fruit of your love continually!! Thank you for remembering me and the precious people of Mozambique.

With Much Love,

Ashlee

SLIDE SHOW FROM MOZAMBIQUE!

2007-02-19T00:48:00.000-08:00

Here is a slideshow made of pictures taken by Ashlee in Mozambique. She shares the love, and you will be touched by the purity and beauty of those faces receiving the love of Christ as they live in conditions we could never dream of. Iris Ministries has many lovers of Christ sharing the lives of children and adults and serving them with passion... Ashlee is one of those. Look more closely on what she's been up to, and what she's going back to very soon, God willing.

The show also features a beautiful song by Isa Couvertier. The whole show was created by Ashlee with the help of Andre Lefebvre.

[NOTE: when you get to the presentation, you will be asked to download and install a tiny program allowing you to view the show. Go ahead and do it, it is very safe. It comes from the company who makes the program used to create the presentation. Andre]

Blessings!

THANK YOU!

2006-11-12T12:18:00.000-08:00

To all of Ashlee's faithful people who have held her up with prayers and financial gifts. Without your faithfulness Ashlee would not have been able to reach as many as she has been able to during her time in Dondo, Mozambique.

Ashlee will be home for about two months - arriving this Thursday the 16th about noon. Please - continue to hold Ashlee and the boys in Dondo up in prayer. During the time she is gone the boys will be out of school. Lisa will also be leaving in a short time for a couple months so this will be a difficult time at the base with both Lisa and Ashlee gone.

This email is two-fold reason - To say thank you and also to let you know of Ashlee's continual need as we feel this is proper since you have helped Ashlee this far. During Ashlee's visit home she will need to see a doctor and dentist of which she no longer has any insurance nor income to cover. She is also going to need to restock supplies to take back and purchase a new VISA and airfare to return.

As the Lord leads we are asking you to prayerfully consider what the He would have you do for now and when Ashlee returns to Dondo. We ask this so Ashlee can be prepared for her return. If you have given financially and are no longer able to give donations please let us know. We are truely very grateful for all you have done and ask God's riches blessings on your gifts.

For all who have given financially I will be sending out another email at the end of December with an attachment of your donations for the year. If you wish to have your statement snail mailed to you please send me a notice via email of your wish.

Thank you!

Les and Karen Fletcher

PS: Ashlee is open to any speaking engagements during the time she is home.

Tax deductible giving:
FireStarters Ministries
18923 – 217th AVE E
Orting , WA 98360
(please put a note “For Mozambique Mission”)

Chimuaza and Goncalves

2006-11-12T12:16:00.000-08:00

I want to send a quick update on Chimuaza and Goncalves because I know some have been praying for these two boys after my last prayer request for them.

Chimuaza:
He is doing better than he was, but please continue to pray for his health. I gave him some scriptures to read about God's healing power and told him to read them before he goes to bed believing that he is healed in the name of Jesus.

Goncalves:
He is longing to come back to the center, but his behavior has not changed so he cannot come back. I know the Holy Spirit is working on his heart. Before I leave I am going to sit down with him. I feel I need to share with him some things that Jesus has put on my heart to tell him. I am also planning on sharing with him a word the Lord gave me about him. I am praying that His heart is open and impacted and that there will be a change from walking in disobedience to obedience.

Please continue to hold these two up in prayer.

In His loving kindness,
Ashlee

p.s. I am leaving Wednesday from Maputo to start the long journey back to the US....your prayers are kindly requested. :)

2006-10-23T09:11:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

Just thought I would forward this picture to you as I really like it. It was taken in South Africa just two days after God amazingly protected Lisa and I. It was taken at a place called God's Window which is in South Africa. It is the highest point in Nelspruit. The lady in the middle is a dear friend of Lisa's and mine who is a missionary with Iris Ministries in Zimpeto (which is outside of Maputo in the South of Mozambique). The view was amazing!!

Ashlee

Chimuaza - Mozambique

2006-10-22T21:46:00.000-07:00

Written October 21, 2006

There is never a dull moment here in Mozambique. There is always something going on – especially with 31 boys who need lots of love. I see the Father’s heart more and more as I walk out all the joyous and difficult situations that I face with them each day.

Today I went to their rooms to visit and see something some of the older boys wanted to show me. When I walked out of their door to leave one of our younger boys came to me and trying to choke back tears, said he needed to speak with me. His name is Chimuaza.

A few months back he had a really bad abscess on his toe where he almost could not walk. Tears always flowed down his beautiful cheeks because of the pain. During this time I took him under my wing and specially cared for him. During this time he had to have a shot which was really scary to him. Like a mother I stayed close to him holding his hands and consoling him.

After some struggle he got through it and I just held him and loved him as he cried. As my family could imagine this was difficult for me, but I had to be strong. Since this situation Chimuaza has drawn much closer to me and become more open with me. I have grown to love him a lot. He is a special young boy and it is because of this that I am writing. Today when he stopped me he could hardly speak so I asked him if he wanted to go someplace to sit and talk. He said “yes”, so we went to a quiet place by my house to talk alone.

As we sat together tears flowed down his sweet face. He began to tell me how he feels a pain inside and how even when he eats he still feels this hunger. He explained how he always feels sad and doesn’t have a desire to play with the other children. Even when he has the desire he doesn’t for some reason. He will want to do things, but ends up not – only to stay in his room. He feels great sorrow, but does not know why. Some days are better than others.

After listening to him I asked him questions and encouraged him with what our heavenly Daddy says about him. I then prayed for him. I will be giving him some scriptures to read, but I am asking the Holy Spirit to give me the verses that Chimuaza needs. I told him to pray and ask the Holy Spirit to show him why he is so sad and to bring freedom and joy.

Chimuaza knows anytime he needs or wants to talk with me or he needs time alone he can come to me. I feel this is a fight, but the enemy has already lost. It is for this reason I am writing to ask for prayer for my litter friend Chimuaza. And also that God would give me great discernment and wisdom. And as these things come up (which they do often) that I will be directed clearly by Him so life will spring forth as Jesus does.

I have attached a picture of Chimuaza so that you can put a face to the name and see the one you are praying for.

Hidden in His arms,
Ashlee

To send packages:
Ministerio Arco Iris
Attn: Ashlee Cladek
Caixo Postal 1237
Beira Mozambique
Africa

Tax deductible giving:
FireStarters Ministries
18923 – 217th AVE E
Orting, WA 98360
(please put a note “For Mozambique Mission”)

Goncalves - Dondo, Mozambique

2006-10-22T21:44:00.000-07:00

Today was a great day full of joy. My Mom had sent me a package which had three water guns inside. Today was the day of attack. Lisa and I filled up our ammunition which was water and when some of our boys arrived at our door we attacked. It was great!!

Some of our little boys came to sit on our veranda which they like to often do. While they sat there we walked out our door with the squirt guns behind our backs as we talked to them and on the count of three we got them….it was so much fun. The boys went running with great laughter saying “O que isso?” which means “what is this?”. As more boys showed up we got them as well. Later in the day some of our older boys came by knowing nothing….so we smoothly walked up to them and on the count of three they were had. Again, great jeers of laughter and joy as we ran after them.

We eventually ended up running all over the center getting everyone in sight. At one point we were squirting some of our students and boys while one of our guards sitting off to the side was laughing – so yes, guess what – we got him too! It was great – he just got up really quickly, laughing as he ran. We had a lot of fun! It would have been great to have a super soaker – not sure what they would have thought about that. J

God is really doing a work here as we are continually contending for His peace and reign to be in this place. This past Monday I was asked to speak during our time of prayer and intercession and the Holy Spirit gave me a message about sonship that was beautiful….it is my prayer that the revelation and freedom of our positions as sons and daughters would be made alive to each one here.

I also wanted to send another quick prayer request to ask for special prayer for another one of our boys. His name is Goncalves. I have attached his picture so you can see his face. I love Goncalves and I know he has an amazing call on his life. A few weeks he was removed from the center for disciplinary reasons. He is living with one of our pastors until his behavior changes. He thinks it is a permanent thing, but it really is only until we see a true change of heart.

I have been in communication with the pastor he is with on a regular bases to see how Goncalves is doing. The pastor says he is still having difficulties with him as Goncalves is not coming home on time and staying out later playing football. There are some other issues that need to change with Goncalves. One day before Goncalves left the center I was praying for him and the Holy Spirit showed me a picture of ropes around him which were being pulled by others around him.

As I was crying out for Goncalves the Holy Spirit gave me a scripture for him which is found in Luke 22:31-32 (this was right after the decision was made that Goncalves needed to leave the center for a time). I am holding onto this scripture and believing that his life will be a great testimony against the enemy. My prayer is that the Holy Spirit may touch at least 2 or 3 peoples hearts to prayer with me for him and Chimuaza to see victory in there lives. I love these boys and can feel the love of the Father over them so much….my heart is to do them good and see them walk in complete victory that they will be the head and not the tail. As I always tell our boys they can be the next president, the next engineer, teacher, or pastor…..they are the head and not the tail in the name of Jesus!!!

Thank you for your labor of love as you continue to hold me and these ones whom the Father loves up before the throne of God. Thank you for your gifts of love. I could not be here without it.

Much Love,
Ashlee

P.S. My classes in the Bible School are going well. I am seeing my students grow and maturing in the ways of God. I see they are hungry and want to learn – it is great. This past week I have felt the hunger level go up….each time I walk in the classroom I can feel a sense of anticipation and hunger. It is a really good thing. Since my leaving date is coming so quickly to visit the states I will have to start teaching at least 4 times per week to finish before my departure….God’s grace in this as it is a lot.

To send packages:
Ministerio Arco Iris
Attn: Ashlee Cladek
Caixo Postal 1237
Beira Mozambique
Africa

Tax deductible giving:
FireStarters Ministries
18923 – 217th AVE E
Orting, WA 98360
(please put a note “For Mozambique Mission”)

"Takuta"

2006-10-16T00:14:00.000-07:00

Hello Everyone,

I want to send an email out to say "Takuta" (that is "thank you" in Sena) to everyone for praying for Lisa and myself while we were going through the situation with our visas. We could tell that prayer had truly been lifted up to a higher level. I experienced God's amazing power in a way I have not before. He completely hide us so we were able to leave the country without any problems. The very next day we were able to go to the Mozambiquen embassy in Nelspruit and had our new visas after about 3 hours. Everywhere we turned I saw the Father lavishing His beautiful love upon us. Even to the point of people I did not know helping me in ways I did not expect at all. During this time Lisa had malaria, but God amazingly touched her body and she recovered within in about 2 days when it usually takes people at least one week to one month before recovering.

While being in Nelspruit it was a wonderful time of rest and being refreshed. Everyday was so wonderful and ever day I knew I was right where the Father wanted us to be. I had great fun relaxing in beautiful, grassy yards with beautifully landscaped gardens while reading a book or going on long walks through corn fields and jumping on trampolines under the big, bright full moon. It was marvelous to be able to sleep as late as I needed to without waking up to all the noise in the village or because of the so many other reasons....Jesus is amazing.

When we came back to Dondo two nights ago we were given a great welcome home by the boys as they came running to greet us with great big smiles and huge hugs....it was beautiful. So many of our Mozambiquen friends were praying for us as well and they are excited to hear how God answered their prayers.

So it was a wonderful time and Jesus really guided our every step....and gave us an amazing testimony that we can use to brag about our wonderful, loving Father!!!

Please continue to pray for me as I only have about 4 weeks before I leave to go back to Washington to visit my family. There is so much that I need to do before leaving. I will be leaving Mozambique on November 15 to be with my family for the holidays. Please continue to pray for me that God will give me great wisdom in everything I do and also for the boys as I know this is really hard for them when we leave to visit family and friends in other places....I am praying that God comforts their hearts and protects them. Please keep the boys in prayer as their is so much going on with them - we need God's wisdom and guidance. With a few we are having some big issues with disrespect and rebellion.

Thank you again and many blessings to each one of you!!!
Ashlee

Ministry in the Province of Manika and other updates...

2006-06-25T18:06:00.000-07:00

Glory to Jesus!! I just arrived back from this weekend’s ministry trip to Manika province. I am getting ready to leave this Wednesday again for Caia to do food distribution to the children (once orphans, but know have a home) and evangelism. I should be back either Sunday or Monday. This trip is far away and there is a ton of work to do as we have around 500 orphans that we have the privilege to care for in Caia. Please keep this trip in your prayers as these trips are full of labor – physically and spiritually.

Before I leave again I wanted to give you a quick update about this weekends ministry trip, but before I do I want to let you know that we received another boy into our center this last Thursday evening. I actually got to be very much involved in his whole process of coming to stay with us and had the opportunity to welcome him into his new home. The other boys have welcomed him right in and are loving on him and playing with him….his name is Joaquim and he is 9 years old.

Since I was gone for his first few days here I have not been able to spend a lot of time with him, but I have been told he is very quiet – this will most likely change in a few weeks as he becomes more familiar with everyone. As for the rest of the boys they are doing very well. We were given an offering from a family who visited here which allowed us to buy all the boys new jackets and underwear – this has been very exciting to them and such a tremendous blessing as we are in the cold months now – yes it gets cold here… J

Regarding this week’s ministry trip – it was awesome!! The Holy Spirit really moved in power. Before I left on this trip I had asked Jesus who was supposed to go with me. As I prayed he told me to take some students from my third year class. When I asked him which ones He showed me two of my students faces.

The morning that I was leaving I went to them as they ate their breakfast (which is a roll and sweet tea) and offered them the opportunity. They were delighted with this and said “yes, if Jesus is choosing us to go we will go”. Joao (one of the students I invited) said that he had a dream the night before that someone was coming from the missionary house and they brought a gift to him and Gonsalves (the other one I invited)…and then here I was bringing them this opportunity.

A quick interruption as I am writing this letter to you I so much wish you could hear and see all that I see – I so much desire for you to be able to feel and experience what it is to live here day in and day out. Just as I am writing this letter tonight 3 of our beautiful boys came to the door because Domingo was not feeling well – I love these boys so much. As tears ran down little Domingo’s face which is usually full of smiles, I comforted him and gave him something to sooth the pain – but most important it was an opportunity to pray and see God work….God has truly knitted my heart here and given me such a great love for this place called Dondo!

Back to the ministry trip….I traveled everywhere by chappa. Our team consisted of 6 people as there were 4 of us from the Dondo and Pastor Johnny and his wife Christina who are the provincial pastors of Manika. They oversee around 130 churches in the Manika province….what beautiful people they are – truly a son and daughter of the King. The first night when we arrived it was already dark and getting pretty late, but headed straight to a church to ministry. As I walked down the hilly terrain under the beautiful star-filled sky of Africa I could here the people singing and the drums going full forth.

What a delight as I stepped into this little dirt hut church which was filled with a dim light from the 2 or 3 candles that were lit. The people had been waiting for our arrival and where hungry to hear the word of God. That night the presence of God filled that little church. When all was over and I was walking out of the church I was mobbed by many children running up to me and giving me great big hugs – it was so great!

The next morning we woke up to head to Manika (it is the district of Manika in the Manika province). We caught a chappa (Mozambiquen style transport) to go the church which was about 45 – 50 minutes away. While in this chappa the glory of God came and we ended up preaching and worshipping Jesus. Halfway to our destination we stopped, but the people on the chappa asked us why we had stopped because they wanted to know more and asked if we could please keep teaching them until we reached Manika – so needless to say that we had an amazing time as the Holy Spirit moved on the peoples hearts in this chappa.

The driver was a Christian and as everything was going on he was so filled with joy he could hardly sit still – his hands waving in the air and with joy agreeing with the word that was going forth to the people in his chappa…..Jesus visited that chappa. But this was not the only time it happened. Every time we took a chappa the presence of God would come – His joy would come as His word went forth and as we filled the chappa with praise to Him. When we finally arrived at the church in Manika we found out that there had been some miscommunication and the pastor thought we were going to be coming to his church on Sunday morning. At one point the rest of the team went to buy some fruit for us to eat for lunch. Joao, Christina and I stayed behind.

While we waited at the church there was a group of children that we hanging out there playing so we began to talk with them. At first they would not even say what their names were, but by the time the rest of the group came back (which was about 45 minutes later) the children were surrounding us as we prayed for them and told them about Jesus. There were about 8 of them there….we got to lead them in a simple prayer…it was a beautiful time. Before leaving I asked the group, “Do you think Jesus would have brought us all the way here just for these children and for those people on that chappa?” I sure think He did!!!!

This morning’s service was in Gondola, which is an area in the Manika province. All I can say is “Wow, God you are awesome”. It was such a powerful time as the Holy Spirit touched the people so much – He came in such power. Before getting up to speak I did not know exactly what He wanted me to speak on, but as I stood up and began to speak He showed me each step….The cry of His heart was for HOLINESS – He is a HOLY GOD who dwells in holy vessels…and since we are the temple of the Holy Spirit we must live holy lives. Before there was an invitation to respond to what the Lord was saying He just came and people were on their faces before God – their was weeping and their was joy….He did such an amazing work in this place and I am so thankful that He has allowed me to privilege to be apart of what He is doing.

I think of this often – what a privilege it is to serve Jesus in this place!!! Thank you to each and everyone who has been holding me in prayer and for all who have financially sowed into this harvest. It is with a heart full of gratitude that I say “thank you”!! May Jesus see and bless you abundantly!!!
With much love – together for the harvest,
Ashlee

p.s. sorry if there are any misspelled words or incorrect grammar in my newsletters as I am usually not able to read them over before I send them out do to time, but as many of you know I am usually careful about grammar and spelling so this is different for me. :)

To send packages:
Ministerio Arco Iris
Attn: Ashlee Cladek
Caixo Postal 1237
Beira Mozambique
Africa

Tax deductible giving:
FireStarters Ministries
18923 – 217th AVE E
Orting, WA 98360
(please put a note “For Mozambique Mission”)

Children's Day

2006-06-25T18:04:00.000-07:00

Children's Day is a big day of celebration here in Mozambique - I am sending a picture of some of our boys on that day.

Lisa and I made a special lunch for them with refrescos (soda pop) and I baked chocolate chip cookies (which they had never had nor heard of before) - they were a big hit!!

Ashlee

Children in our village

2006-06-25T18:02:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of some of the children that live in our village - they love playing with our boys and eating the leftovers from our center meals eachday. They are beautiful children.

Ashlee

Happiness in Mozambique!

2006-06-25T18:01:00.000-07:00

Just thought I would send a picture of me so there is my face with all of this writing!! This picture was taken of me and fellow missionar friend (she is in Pemba) while we were in Maputo for our staff retreat....yes, I am happy!!!!

2006-06-25T17:49:00.000-07:00

Life can be tough - especially for a dog in Mozambique. I took this picture when I was in Chimoio speaking at a women's conference - this puppy was brought to the pastor as an offering/gift. :)

With much Love and Joy,
Ashlee

Blessings from Dondo

2006-05-28T19:44:00.000-07:00

We just got back from an outreach. God is moving gloriously here. One of the other missionary women gave a message on Esther. Then I gave a message on the master potter and the clay. It is so amazing here. A man came to give his heart to Jesus. Some of the people brought him up and he knelt down to pray. As he prayed the people begin to dance and rejoice. The man had not been to church before. His parents were Catholic but he had not been to church. He came that day because as he was walking by he heard the people singing and saw them dancing. He stopped and listened and his heart was so warmed. He then heard the message on Esther.

When he got home his mom asked where he had been. He told her he was at church and heard the message. He then came back and heard me talk about the master potter and the clay. He then knew he had to accept Jesus in his heart. He knew he wanted to surrender. It is so beautiful to think he heard the messages and accepted Jesus.

Today when I was riding on the back of the truck coming back to the base I was able to talk with a man helping him understanding English. God is doing so much for these people. They have so many questions. They experience things and don't understand. This person was taken into heaven where Jesus healed him. He didn't understand what happened so I was able to explain to him.

The other day I went into the village to a store with one of the students. The spirit in the place was very depressing. I took this as a chance to teach. I told him the spirit in this place is not a good spirit and then begin to explain that we must be sensitive to Holy Spirit and decerning the spirits of places. When we walked out the student told me that I was right about the place that it was known for dealing many drugs from there and was a very bad place. I praise God for opportunities to teach in every situation.

There are so many things here that are so harsh. I pray that I will never become harden from all I see. My heart is so full of compassion for the people. The love of Jesus is so full for these presious ones. So many difficult decisions to make. So many times we need to step in and can't. There are so many things we see that are not right before God because of the culture of the people. They are learning the ways of Jesus but the culture makes many things very difficult. They need such grace, such grace.

We are feeding over 3600 children which are orphans (no parents at all) in the bush. There are some pastors that have taken in 20 or more children living in their homes with them. Iris is only able to help with one months worth of food. We are not able to go to all of the places each month so many are not provided for. The finances are not there for enough food or enough vehicles to transport the food. These pastors are living on faith to provide for the many orphans. Iris is going to begin to develop a data base of all of these children with their ages and how their parents died so we will have info to send out when people ask.

I am now in charge of finances here at the Dondo base. It is a huge responsibility. Pastors come to me asking for money for food or doctors. One pastor had 21 in his home. I had to look at him and say I am sorry. We had given to him three weeks ago and had to help others first before we could give to him again. As a result we had to turn him down. It is a very difficult position to be in. I have to be sensitive to what the Lord is saying. In another situation it was not time to give to a pastor yet but the Lord told me to give so I did.

We need people to give. This is such a fruitful ground to give, such fruitful ground. It is not just physical food but spiritual food.

As I was walking past the church late in the evening when everyone was gone one man was on his knees praying out to the Lord. So precious, so hungry. They ask of us to teach them more and more. Only through God's love and grace I have the strength to walk with such a load. Your prayers are so important. I bless each one of you for your faithfulness.

Ashlee

One more thing

2006-04-23T11:33:00.000-07:00

I forgot to mention that I am preaching tomorrow morning at the church here. All of the students and pastors from the school will be there as well as all of the Mozambiquens who work for Iris will be there. I feel the Holy Spirit wants to talk about what it means to be an ambassador of Christ....so your prayers for this time would be wonderful. I know in my spirit that God is going to do something special - I want His presence to so much come and overtake this time and overtake the lives of everyone that is there!!!

Ashlee

One more thing

2006-04-23T11:24:00.002-07:00

Another Update from Mozambique

2006-04-23T11:24:00.001-07:00

April 23 - 2006

So much has been happening since I have been here and since my last email to you. I have a little space of time where I can email so I am taking advantage of it. J Tonight Lisa (a missionary from Canada) and I are going to have a special time with the children. Since we just received the ability to show DVDs we are going to show them a children’s worship DVD from Hillsongs. The children know there is a surprise, but they do not know what it is so it will be a lot of fun.

***************************************

(I was not able to send this last night because we did not have internet so I wanted let you know that we had a beautiful time with the boys. They loved the worship video. The presence of the Lord was so present during this time. At one point on the DVD a girl gives a simple salvation message of how God made us to be His very best friends and we are the reason for all of creation. She shared about the love of Jesus (all in English) and then led all the children who wanted to walk with Jesus in prayer. When she did this all of our boys said the pray after her in English – it was so precious).

I had hoped to have had all of the boy’s names and approximate ages to give to you so you could have them to pray over if you wished to, but I will hopefully be able to get these on Monday. They truly are special boys and I grow to love them more and more each day. There is one who is especially becoming my little buddy. His name is Joao (John) and he is about 12 years old. They usually don’t know their exact age and mostly don’t know their birthday, but he says he is 12. When he smiles his whole face lights up – he is beautiful.

On Thursday I got to go to the prison for an outreach with our Mozambiquen young adults. About 95% of the people in prison attend our times of ministry in their. This last Thursday 14 of them surrendered their lives to Jesus for the first time. The prisons here in Mozambique are an amazing sight and I so much want to see transformations in these men’s lives. On our way back from the prison we had people stopping us to talk to us and we were able to pray with about 3 people which I know 2 of them gave their hearts to Jesus. It is really amazing being here because there are no tourists here in Dondo so when they see me they know I am a missionary here. As I walked through the village on the way back to the base I heard more than once that “the missionaries are here”. It really makes the reality of being an ambassador of Christ come to the forefront as everywhere I walk I am truly representing Christ - as He was in this world so are we!

On Friday the two other missionaries here and I took the children to the beach for a day of fun and also to have baptisms. Eight children were baptized and it was an exciting time for all. The joy of the Lord was so evident. After the baptisms the boys taught me how to catch clams by my hands (the clams are much small than I am used to).

Friday was also Katarina’s first day to help me with my laundry. Here we like to hire the Mozambiquen women, who are usually widows, to wash our clothes as a way for them to support themselves and their families. I have hired Katarina to come each Friday in the morning. She lives here in the village. She is a widow and has three girls who live with her and one boy who is here at the center. If she comes to your mind please pray for her.

There are so many changes going on here at the center. We have two missionaries who are preparing to leave in about three weeks to go for a time of rest in the states and Brazil. Since we are so few their responsibilities will be distributed amongst the three of us that will be here so as it stands now they would like me to handle paying the salaries of the Mozambiquens we have hired to work on the base. I will also be ahead of hospitality for this base until at least June. Your prayers are greatly appreciated.

In the last email I sent out I mentioned that I would be taking charge of the medical clinic here (the administration side). I hope to meet with all of the people involved with this on Monday to sort out some things. I have also found out that there is great corruption in the workings of the clinic and a lot of money is being stolen as well as resources. The rule here is if a worker is caught stealing one time they are fired. My desire is not to come in and fire anyone, but to see transformation in their lives. Please, please pray for this because this is a deep root here. There is much I could say, but I believe Holy Spirit will show you how to pray.

May the love of Jesus so overtake you that it amazes you!!! Thank you again to all who are praying and supporting God’s work here in Mozambique. May the Father see and bless you abundantly.

In His Abundant Love,
Ashlee

To send packages:
Ministerio Arco Iris
Attn: Ashlee Cladek
Caixo Postal 1237
Beira Mozambique
Africa

Tax deductible giving:
FireStarters Ministries
18923 – 217th AVE E
Orting, WA 98360
(please put a note “For Ashlee in Mozambique”)

Hello from beautiful Mozambique!

2006-04-23T11:24:00.000-07:00

April 19 - 2006

Hello from beautiful Mozambique!

It is with great joy that I am finally able to send you all an update on the great things God is doing here. First I want to say a “huge thank you” to everyone who has been praying for me – your prayers are truly felt. As most know I encountered malaria after only being here for 5 days. Though my body was extremely weak and achy my spirit was very alive. All I could do was sleep and pray for all of you.

Since I have been unable to email until now I feel I have so much to say so this update is a bit long, but I pray that it blesses you abundantly. If you just want to hear the testimonies you can go to the last portion of this email where it says “Testimonies”.

As I always enjoy sharing the glories of God I see while living here in Mozambique it has been on my heart to also share more of the struggles and realities of life here. In sharing the struggles you will also have a better understanding how to pray not only for me, but the people I am blessed to work with.

Everyday I am surrounded by great poverty. Everyday I see people who are severely crippled. Sadly the blind are abundant here. Many times the blind person’s child or a child from their family spends all day leading them around begging for food and money. The masses of orphans and neglected children are beyond county. It is a very common site to see little girls as young as eight years old carrying their baby brother or as they walk alone throughout the streets each day. At such a young age they are made to take on adult responsibilities. There is a cry amongst many missionaries here to see the Mozambique’s learn to care and love for their own.

On another note I found out this week that the province of Sofala (which is where Dondo is located) is known to be the most corrupt in every sense, as well as not welcoming Christian missionaries. This is the reason it is so difficult for Christians to get visas in Dondo.

Yet with the challenges I face everyday and the things that surround me I must be the hands and feet of Jesus. What does love look like? It has a face and a name! And it is with this pure love of Jesus that I so long to see this nation and these people transformed. As I look into their faces – into their eyes – I can see Jesus. They too were created in the image of God. They too carry a piece of God’s heart. The scripture comes to mind that it is not by might, nor by power, but by the Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit must constantly be my guide. I know as I continue to yield to Him everyday He is going to teach me how to love these people to life.

Thank you so much for your continued prayers as the work here is great, but the laborers are so few. I so much know God has sent me here – though I do not fully see why yet, but it is being revealed more and more as I am here in Dondo. I will continue to stop for the one and be the fragrance of Christ to the people of Dondo.

What am I doing in Dondo?
One thing I will be doing while here is overseeing the medical clinic which is a huge task. Please pray for great understanding and grace as I work with all those involved as I believe the Lord may have me change a lot of what is being done. Pray for His creativity and great wisdom. The Mozambiquen’s way of thinking and seeing things is very different than the West’s. So in this I must be sensitive to the Holy Spirit as I learn to walk with them and be incarnate in the culture as Jesus was.

My time in Pemba…
My three weeks in Pemba was fruitful though I had nine days of contending with malaria. Upon my arrival to Pemba I felt as though I had never left. It felt so familiar and I knew I was supposed to be there. Everywhere I went I would hear my name being called or come across an individual who knew me from the guards that work at the Iris base to the people in the village. I was warmly welcomed with joy. When I went to the new center to visit the children it was so great. Their surprised faces continue to stick in my mind, especially Adelino’s. Adelino is one of the boys at the center. He is about nine years old and one who God has knit my heart with. When he saw me his face lite up so bright and from that moment on he was back at my side whenever I was at the center. It was really hard when I had to leave to come to Dondo. He just clung to me as tears ran down his beautiful little face. Though I lovingly explained to him that I had to go and help in Dondo the tears still flowed. It was difficult for me to leave, but I knew it was time to go to Dondo.

Testimonies…
Many of you may remember some of my precious friends from my last time here so here are a few updates on them:

CHICO: My 18 year old friend Chico (one who I call my little Mozambiquen brother) is doing very well. I will not forget the day he first saw me after I arrived. He was glowing as he ran up to me and gave me the biggest hug. He is now working with the children at the center on the weekends and during the week he is helping at the medical clinic on the base when he is not at school. He still has a beautiful heart for Jesus and is like a David – one who is a worshipper.

FELSHMIL: My friend Felshmil who I visited in prison is doing very good as well. Many probably remember the amazing story of how I had the opportunity to visit him in prison and how God released him. He is living in the city with his mother and going to school. He still loves Jesus! I was not able to see him while I was in Pemba, but his cousin Carlito relayed this information to me. I also found out that the day I left Pemba in August, Felshmil’s mother had prepared a large gift to give me which included a chicken and many other things. She was so full of gratitude for what God did as we visited and prayed for Felshmil that she wanted to say thank you. When she heard I had already gone she was saddened. After hearing this, oh how my heart was filled with gratitude for what God did in Felshmil’s heart and now to hear how it affected his family.

CARLITO: The last testimony I want to share is about Carlito.
Many may remember him a well from my last trip. He and his family are so very precious to me. Carlito ha a call of God on his life, but the constant heartache and hardship of life here have been waying very heavy on him. I pray that the Holy Spirit will give a few of you a burden to pray for him and his family.

The day I went into the village to see him it was raining, but I knew I had to see him before I left Pemba and I was leaving the next day, so Chico and I set out to the village. When it rains here everything becomes slick mud. There were small streams in the streets; mud so deep my feet would get stuck. The travel was slow, but joyous as all I could do was laugh. The people in the village enjoyed it also. I think they found it funny to see me there and would ask where I was going. When I finally arrived at his house he had just left to another person’s house. I visited with his mother Julia for a while and visited with a girl I had prayed for two days earlier who was very ill with malaria. She was now sitting up and smiling feeling so much better. I know Jesus touched here body.

A young girl knew where Carlito was so she took Chico and I to find him. It was another adventure through the mud further into the village – it was a beautiful area. When we arrived Carlito came out and was overjoyed to see me. I sat with him for the next 1 ½ - 2 hours and allowed Jesus to minister to him as I heard how he was. It was great to visit with him. There were many tears as the Holy Spirit gave me words to speak over him and as I heard the hardships he has gone through. After I left he entered the Bible school with Iris for the three month term. But in November his mother’s husband died and things became very hard on Carlito as his mother was basically alone and would just sit and cry. She would not eat, there was no food, no money and Carlito was hit with this burden. He is now working a very hard job for an individual who does not always pay him for his labor so he and his family go without a lot. Through all this he has not turned his back on God as he know God cares and will take care of Him because He is faithful. I prayed for him and was able to bless him financially to help with the needs of his family (thank you for those who are sowing financially into God’s work here because I can do things like this). Chico and I had a beautiful time with him. I will be in contact with him and his family as much as I am able to while I am here because his brother (another friend of mine – Florencio has a phone). If God puts Carlito on your heart please pray for him and his family.

Thank you again for all who are praying and financially sowing into the work God is doing in Mozambique. I love and think of you all often so much wanting you to see the fruit of your giving. Feel free to email with questions or encouragements. Through I may not be able to respond quickly I will try my best as internet is not very easy here. For those interested in sending packages I have put the mailing information at the end of this email. Huge blessings to each of you and your families!!

Working together for the harvest!
Ashlee

To send packages:
Ministerio Arco Iris
Attn: Ashlee Cladek
Caixo Postal 1237
Beira Mozambique
Africa

Tax deductible giving:
FireStarters Ministries
18923 – 217th AVE E
Orting, WA 98360
(please put a note “For Ashlee in Mozambique”)

She is up and running again!

2006-04-18T07:03:00.000-07:00

For those wishing to contact Ashlee direct she will have access to email this week. I will not be sending out the emails any longer by her dictating them via our phone conversations. She will be sending them out directly - unless we run into a glitch.

God bless you all for your faithful prayers. She is up and running again and will have lots to share!

Ashlee's mom - Karen
karen@firestartersministries.org

Easter update - April 16

2006-04-18T07:01:00.000-07:00

Via phone conversation with Ashlee on Easter:

There is such a need here in Dondo. We have about 30 boys here on the compound, a Bible school, a medical clinic and only six or seven missionaries.

The boys asked me if I am coming to work with them and if I am going to be here for a short time or a long time. People come and go and they are becoming "gun shy" with people coming in and out and becoming attached to them and then they are gone.

The missionary couple that head this compound have a little boy who just turned one. They had a big birthday party for him. I asked what they did for the boys who live here for their birthday. From what I understand they do not do anything special. I envision starting to buy the children birthday gifts and cakes and things that celebrate them. I was told that would be good. The children are hurting here. They need love.

They have asked me if I would take over the medical clinic and the finances of the compound. Please be holding this in special prayer as there are somethings that will need some special handling in regards to the present staff.

A lady missionary lady here who is about 70+ is teaching Portugese to the pastors. She has asked if I could help her also which will be good to help me further my ability in speaking the language.

The setting here is a little different. We have an actual shower and running water; but we have not had any water for the last couple days. So I should say we have running water when there is water. The compound is situation in the mist of the village which I very much enjoy.

The Spiritual climate is very different then Pemba, much oppression.

Again, thank you for your prayers. They more valuable then you can image.

Ashlee

(NOW A NOTE FROM ASHLEE'S MOM - ASHLEE IS CONTENDING WITH ANOTHER ILLNESS. SHE DIDN'T WANT EVERYONE TO THINK SHE IS ALWAYS SICK - BUT SHE NEEDS PRAYER AGAIN! THIS IS NOT FROM THE MALARIA BUT SOMETHING DIFFERENT. SHE IS WEAK AND HAVING SHARP STOMACH PAINS. SHE IS NOT SURE IF IT IS SOMETHING SHE ATE OR WHAT BUT HAS BEEN GOING ON FOR A COUPLE DAYS NOW.)

April 14 update

2006-04-18T06:59:00.000-07:00

Ashlee hopes to be able to send word to everyone soon. She arrived in Dondo today and says she loves it. The base is in among the village so she says it has the feel of living in the village with the people.

To her delight when the truck was pulling up to her new place she heard someone calling to her only to find one of the pastors that had attended the Bible school in Pemba was running up to the truck window calling - Mona Ashlee! Mona Ashlee! Turns out this is the village he is from.

Please hope one special little boy up in prayer. In Pemba Ashlee had a child she was especially fond of named Adoleno. It was difficult for him when she left last time and he didn't understand why she had to leave again. Please pray for him.

Karen

Ashlee is coming back strong

2006-04-06T22:37:00.001-07:00

Just talked with Ashlee.

Her strength is coming back very quickly. This can only been given to the Glory of God!!

She has purchased her ticket to Dondo and will be flying out on the 14th from Pemba arriving in Dondo about 8 P.M. that night.

The rainy season is upon them so it is difficult to get out because of the mud. Tomorrow she plans on going into the village to see friends and minister to those in need.

Anna is going strong and the little one that was sick is fully recovered.

YOUR GUYS ARE AWESOME WITH YOUR PRAYERS! THANK YOU FROM ASHLEE, ANNA, AND US.

TO GOD BE ALL GLORY!!!

Ashlee's parents Les and Karen
karen@firestartersministries.org

April 6th Ashlee's update

2006-04-06T22:37:00.000-07:00

Thank you for your prayers. My Strength is returning! I have been able to get out and eat with the others again. My appetite is returning.

Today I have been helping to clean up our place. The rain came so hard while we were out eating that our building was lightly flooded with water and mud when we returned. We now much squeegee it out. I have to watch it carefully so I don't tire out too much but it feels good to be able to get up again.

One of the guest here came and told us she has rented a room at the local tourist hotels for us for a day this weekend. She is planning some special things as a surprise to bless us with.

It is the rainy season which brings the Malaria season. The hospital here is again out of the medicine I needed so badly. Please hold the people here in prayer.

Thank you again for your most valued prayers for me and my family during this time.

I hope to be going to Dondo the 17th to start the work I have been sent to do. For now I will helping out here as much as my strength will allow as I prepare to go.

Ashlee

April 5th Ashlee's health update

2006-04-05T08:11:00.000-07:00

Ashlee is stronger again today and able to sit up a bit longer. She is looking forward to going to Dondo to start her mission work.

It has been raining and thundering a lot during the last two days. She has been laying and listening to the sounds and enjoying the Bible on her Ipod.

Pray for Ashlee's strength. She is hoping to be in Dondo on the 17th. This could be postponed if she is not strong enough.

Thanks again for all your faithfulness.

Karen

April 4th Update

2006-04-04T09:30:00.000-07:00

Ashlee says she is feeling better today. Thank you Jesus! A little each day, a little each day. The night that everyone was praying she says she could feel her body take the turn for the better. She says to say thank you for holding her up.

She is so looking forward to getting out and seeing the sunshine again.

Ashlee is still very weak but is able to sit up for very short periods and is still being watched carefully. Her appeitite is improving and she has been able to keep a some things down.

Anna is also doing much better but still is not back to full strength. Ashlee also mentioned they now have a baby in their room that has ammonia. I could hear her crying as we talked. Remember this little one in your prayers.

Thank you again from Ashlee's family for your faithfulness. This has been a difficult time being so far away from Ashlee with her so sick. With you prayers we have had the strength that only God gives.

Blessings to all of you,

Les and Karen (Ashlee's parents)

Answers to prayer so far

2006-04-02T11:25:00.000-07:00

Just go word - they found a packet of meds for Ashlee. Her condition is so poor they are keeping someone with her at all times taking two hour turns covering her in prayer. If she is not turning for the better tomorrow they will be air lifting her to a hospital in Jo-berg.

THANK YOU LORD.
HE IS ALREADY ANSWERING WITH FINDING THE MEDS. LETS KEEP PRAYING.

Karen

Ashlee hit with malaria

2006-04-02T10:59:00.000-07:00

Dear saints,

I am asking you to join in prayer for the life and health of Ashlee, a young woman God has called to Mozambique where she worked with Iris Ministries children.

She came back on furlough and now is back in Africa since last week ago. Over the past week, she has contracted malaria. Please hold her up in prayer before the Father, that she may experience his healing and complete restoration, for her and her roomate Anna, and everyone!

Blessings,

Andre Lefebvre

Ashlee wrote her parents:

"I am being treated for malaria because I have all the symptoms. Don't worry. My body is weak - my spirit is very very alive." Ashlee

Thank you to all who have sent words of encouragement. Ashlee knows you are all praying. Please remember her roommate Anna also. She is still very weak.

Received TODAY April 2nd 2006:

"Ashlee is very weak and is feeling worse."

"They are out of meds and have not been able to get anymore. Where they buy them they is out."

Karen (Ashlee's mother)

2005-10-10T17:26:00.000-07:00

L-O-V-E
It is a small four-letter word that will cost you everything: laying down your life; passion and compassion; giving without expecting; feeling His very heartbeat and surrendering to His rhythm; following the Lamb wherever He goes - even to Mozambique. -Heidi Baker, Iris Ministries

What a thought - what an insight into the Father's heart which is where I so desperately want to be and to stay....deeper, deeper still into His wonderful and beautiful, great big heart of love. What a thrill to know His great love for me...I cannot comprehend it - it is so huge.

2005-09-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

OUTREACH INTO THE BUSH AND VILLAGES

"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be filled" - Matthew 5:6

Feeding the Hungry

"For I Was Hungry And You Gave Me Food..." Matthew 25:35

2005-09-01T08:27:00.000-07:00

Precious Children of Mozambique

"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God." - Matthew 5:8

Student Pastors-

Meus Amigos Sempre

"Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." - Matthew 5:3

2005-08-31T15:21:00.000-07:00

More Pictures...

Saturday, 20 Aug 2005

2005-08-20T10:22:00.000-07:00

Just got back from five days in the bush. The outreach went so well. As usual we rode in the back of Iris' big flatbed trucks for many hours before we reached our destination. The places we saw were like pictures that you would see in National Geographic - absolutely stunning and amazing to see how beautiful God's handy work is here on earth. The ride was very bumpy as usual and felt many times like I was being body slammed by the pounding of my body weight hitting the truck floor as we quickly rode on the rough African terrain.

The views were beautiful! The first place we stopped was at a missionary couples house in Nampula (different province in Mozambique than Cabo Delgado which is where Pemba is). This would be a place for us to stop over for a time so we could go out each day and do outreaches into other villages. This missionary couple were in the process of starting a chicken farm where they could influence the economy by bringing in much needed work - their vision and goal was outstanding. Their home was on many, many acres of land which were tucked up next to some "mountains" - it was absolutely stunning and so peaceful there. They had horses that ran free throughout their land and we were allowed to ride them as we wanted...it was a great place of refuge. While we were there I was able to see one of the pastors I had met when first arriving in Pemba. How wonderful to see him! When he saw me he was delighted and quickly showed me where I had written my name in his journal. It was really beautiful as I was able to spend some time with him hearing the vision of what God had put in his heart and his cry for help as he asked me to please come back and help them there in Nampula as it is so desperately needed.

Before leaving this place of refuge in Nampula on Friday I went for a walk with two other girls into a near by village. As we walked we saw and spoke with the beautiful people we passed by. One place we stopped was at a house where a man by the name of Mario and his wife and children lived. It was here that I gave one of the man's wife a powerband, the little band with the salvation message in colored beads. As I was speaking with his beautiful children the husband and wife went into the house and brought out two chairs for us to sit on and peanuts for us to eat. His wife had been peeling peas which she had picked from their garden so we sat and helped her. It was such a beautiful moment as we sat there peeling these peas and loving on them - there was much joy of laughter. When it was time to leave Mario went over and knocked down papayas from his tree and put it into a bag with the peanuts. This is the only food for his family. His clothes were as rags that we would throw away yet he gave to us. They would give you everything though they may have nothing. What selfless love. I so much see the reflection of Jesus. They are so giving. I am overwhelmed by their love, by their giving out of nothing. We had the wonderful opportunity to pray for Mario and his family before we left and Jesus was so present there with us - How I glory in the Lord for He is so good.

The next day we drove deeper into the bush arriving at a little village. I hadn't thought of bringing any money. There was a little shop there. One of the village people asked me if I was going to buy something. I told him I didn't have any money. He sent one of the boys to buy me something. He came back with a cookie. They are so giving. They can be hungry yet they will still give you part of what they have.

During the meetings we play the Jesus Film for the people. I was so tired from the travel. During the film I fell asleep sitting on the ground with my head in my lap. When I woke up the film was most of the way through. The people come from all over to watch the film. At first there were only 20 people then the crowd grew and grew to about 200 people. After the film was completed I was able to pray for many people. Many accepted Jesus.

During the drive to our next place some of us girls needed to go to the bathroom. In Mozambique the bathroom is the bushes to the side of the road. So we had stopped by the side of the road and walked into the bush. When we came back our legs were burning so bad! We didn't know what we had gotten into! We saw some water and tried washing our legs to stop the burning. It was terrible! Some of the guys went to go into the bushes for the same reason and one of the pastors stopped them saying don't go into the bushes. He bent over and showed us these little plants that were like peapods and said they would burn you - One of those learning experiences.

The next day we drove and drove again getting to our place late at night. The people at this place were deep into poverty. They live off the land surviving from whatever they could gleam.

When we were ministering to the people everyone accepted Jesus! I watch the planting of a church. It was so exciting! After the people accepted Jesus they asked if someone would want to lead the people. A man raised his hand. Then they asked if someone would be the secretary. Another said yes. They asked the people if they would accept these two and the people clapped and yelled yes. It was so awesome, so beautiful. A church was started. These two will now come to Pemba to school for three months and be taught the word of God. They will then return to this place and lead the people.

We prayed for a child who was unable to speak. He began to speak saying, Jesus, Mama. Jesus is so wonderful to answer our prayers. The people are changed.

Again back on the road. As we travel we sing and sing and pray. This time it was a bit different. One of the pastors began weeping and weeping and praising God. The Presence was flooding the truck! So so so powerful. The person next to me was taken in vision to the door of heaven and shown them many things. Among the things they were shown the Lord told them He was so delighted we had come. Jesus was laughing with joy. The vision was very powerful and life changing for this person.

It is so simple! So simple! So simple! We in America make it so difficult! It is so simple!

We went to many villages and many places just loving on people. People were running up to us with bananas, chickens, and other fruits. One guy had a bird on his finger and wanted money so he would let it go.

When we ask a person if they would like us to pray for them the people usually say, I am well. (Just like they do at home.) We still are able to pray for them. They now say walking with Jesus is good!

I have such an intense love for these people. They are so beautiful so beautiful. At one point I couldn't take much more and crumpled in tears knowing I was leaving so soon. I love these people so much. It is so beautiful so beautiful.

On the travel I was with mostly Western people this time. These were the students who had stayed at the college site. There were eleven of us that stayed with the main base living with the pastors and children. It seemed strange to be with so many Westerns after being with the people. It was really strange to see the difference of how we have come to be. Our experience has been very different then theirs. They still had much of the Western mind on some things and we that had stayed at the base with the children found we had changed in much of our thinking.

It has been such an adventure, a wonderful adventure.

The pastors who had been here with us during this time all left on Sunday night. On the trip we were able to see one of them. It was really cool to see where he lived. To see his village and meet his family. To see him in his environment.

When we arrived back in Pemba it was so quiet. 25 new children had come in this week. Many of the students had left and all the pastors had left going back to their homes to continue the church that had been started. Today I am packing and organizing and getting last tidbits together. It is so hard to leave but I know I will be back.

Oh! We went to an authentic Mozambique restaurant. One of the guys had contacted the restaurant before hand and asked if they made certain different foods. When we got there we thought we would order a simple meal. To our surprise when we got there the owner had fixed everything the guy had asked about! It was a feast! Wow!

Went to the airport to check on our tickets. The airport people were there but they had decided not to work that day. This is the usual in Pemba. They can be there but decide they are not working so you can't get any information. They don't work on Sunday. Some of the students have had problems with luggage when they left.

Please hold us in prayer as we leave. Our group of five will fly out of Pemba at noon our time on Sunday, this is 2 AM Saturday night your time. We will be home Tuesday afternoon.

Blessings - Mozambique style.

See you soon,

Ashlee

Sun, 14 Aug 2005

2005-08-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

It is a really difficult time today. Along with the students from the mission school there have been many little pastors from various villages also going through Bible school and are now preparing to go back to their homes to pastor churches there. Since Saturday was graduation day they are now leaving. We have become very close with these sweet little pastors. They have paid a great cost to come. Many do not know how their families are and will have contact with them for the first time in the three months.

Some of the children realize we are leaving. One little girl comes and sits in my lap with tears in her eyes. She has become very close to me. She is only about ten years old. Tears are constantly flowing everyday these last few days. Such an immense love for these people. I could never have believed there could be such love. They are beautiful. To think I may never see them again.

We were able to buy sandals for the pastors before they leave. It was so fun sitting in the middle of a store sorting 210 pairs of sandals and buying them. The store keeper was excited about the sell and it was such a surprise to the pastors. Because someone blessed two of the students with some extra money we were able to bless the pastors. In passing out the shoes we discovered we had 240 pairs for the 240 pastors in need. God had made the difference.

Upon graduation each pastor is given a Bible, a t-shirt and some money before they leave. (We can hear their excitement as Ashlee is speaking) Some will leave in the middle of the night, some throughout the day. Each time a car shows up there are tears.

Tomorrow I will leave for the bush. When I come back they will be gone.

We had graduation with a major feast with chicken. It was wonderful. Today the Mission School students were commissioned.
Something have been taking place this last week since the meeting with Heidi. I can't explain it. Heidi asked in one of the classes for those who had written a note about further ministry with Iris to come to see her. I hadn't written a note but held back because I wanted to ask her a question. I wanted to asked her what it would take to come for a long term. As I was waiting the student in front of me asked the same question. Heidi looked up at me and asked me, "what about you?" She told me I could come to Pemba and stay right there at that base until I found out what God wanted me to do. She wants two to three girls to stay in one house to work with the children. There were three of us standing there asking the same question and having the same heart. I have an open door to come back. I am praying God's will be done.

I love it here. It is totally real. For now it is time for me to return home and finish my school. I am praying about coming back in January when school is complete. It is interesting some of the others are feeling the same about January.

Since being here I have had this acute sinus infection. It is finally getting better. I have been sick three or four times. It has not been fun.

This next year Iris' plans are to have houses for the children. They are praying for God to send them house parents to embrace the children and raise them up. I was talking with one about my parents. He was saying they must come, they must come.

There has been many interruptions in preparing to leave for the bush. The graduation, the excitement of the pastors receiving their small packages, the cars coming and taking them home to their villages, the emotions of some of the students going back to their homes around the world. The knowledge that when we return many will be gone and I will be leaving the next day.

Forty of us are going in three trucks deep into the bush. We will split off into two groups and go into different villages and various places. We don't really know what to expect. I ask for your prayers.

Ashlee

Saturday, 6 Aug 2005

2005-08-06T10:21:00.000-07:00

It has been so beautiful being here and seeing so many things that those in the West never see.

It is wide open here for those who wish to work in the mission field. The need for help with anything is here. What is your passion? Of the missionaries that go out from here to the other areas of Africa some are totally supported financially and some they give part of the support. If you have a heart to pioneer a mission here in Africa as Iris Ministries has with finding your own support there is a great work here. What is your passion? What is your desire? Go forth! The need for help is so great. The work here is growing faster then what can be kept up with.

Iris has asked if any of us are interested in working with them further to submit our name and email address with a short vision of what we are being called to. If anyone in the future is interested in joining with Iris they are requiring all to go through their mission school. The next session will be next year.

The other day we were worshiping and I looked over and was blessed to see one of the little boys was holding his arms up and worshiping. The children here are so deep into the Lord. The children are beginning to preach. It is nothing shallow. It is very good! The children pray for the people ministering to them. When I was so sick one of the little children came to me and prayed for me with such strength and compassion. They are so precious - not shallow.

Iris is starting a school for the people in the village and those on the base. There is such a desperate need for people to "mother and father" the children. Someone to help them to move into a successful adulthood walking the destiny that God has for them. The hope is to have houses where those who are needed to move on can move in with "parents" to mentor them.

Teachers! Teachers! Teachers! Those who will help teach in all areas - in agriculture, general studies, construction, plumbing, electrical, medical - even just first aid, personal hygiene and so much more. For those who will come they would give room and board but each would need support from where ever for their personal extras. The door is open now for me to change my visa and stay longer or go on to Malawi and another place until November. I do not hear God telling me to do that for now so I will be coming home.

Heidi's heart is to stay in Mozambique but she has been told by many and felt she is to listen and has to pick up her cross and go into other places to speak at the conferences. She has so many calls but can only go to a few. Her heart is if you want to speak before the people - go! She wants to stay here but knows God is telling her to go. As a result she travels quite a bit.

Heidi and her family live very very simple lives here. As I look around I see great integrity in the finances that come in here. There isn't any extravagant life style. All live in the same humble way.

This last week we didn't have any electricity for three days and the well went dry for a day. Today I was finally able to take a bucket bath after a week. A bucket bath is with a bucket and a scoop. America waste so much water. Water is so precious here.

Every time a pastor needs drinking water we have to have the government sign a paper so we can have a tank full of clean drinking water. The water from the well is good for baths but it is salty. Sometime they have gone without drinking water for two and three days which can be very difficult with the heat.

You really don't need much here. Life is so simple. Our light in the dorm has not been working so I am glad I did bring a little lantern. It has helped. I brought a CD player with a Spanish CD. They love it because they can understand it. It seems to be a most prized gift when I let one of them use it for a time. The batteries are completely ran out when it is brought back.

Last Thursday we did a little medical clinic during lunch. Some of the wounds were so bad. I asked to be one of the ones who cleaned up the wounds (me with the weak stomach). I wanted to learn so in the future when one came I would know what to do.

We did a lot of bandaging of wounds. One little boy looked like the end of his toe was coming off. One boy had a big bulge on the side of his leg. He said it wasn't painful but it was consuming his leg. One little three or four year old girl had a chemical burn. She was so brave. Her mom and dad are dead and she lives with an aunt with many children. Her shirt was just a rag so we were able to give her a new shirt along with the medical care she so greatly needed.

The children are starving for affection. One of the workers here brought some pencils to hand out. She was mobbed. This was such a treat to have a pencil.

I am looking so forward to seeing my family. The biggest price I would have to pay to come to Africa to stay would be to have to leave my family. I am trusting my Jesus with my destiny. I do not miss America. My heart is so much here.

It is so exhausting being here. But we pray and pray and gain strength. I have prayed for so many. The need is so great so we continue. So many we pray for nothing happens then this last week a deaf woman was prayed for and now she hears. It is stopping for the one.

Here we pray and pray a lot. The load is constant everywhere we walk, the poor, the beggars. The thieves are there continually but no one has gotten hurt. The need can weigh so heavy if you do not trust Jesus.

Heidi was telling us of some people going out on the mission field here in Africa for 25 years and seeing nothing. That is so amazing. She has great things to say about those who have gone before and are still there; but here, we see so much. The people come so humble, simple, walking in love and faith. No programs or stuff. Here the worship is very joyous and full of dance. It is so different from America. So free. In the States we have a worship leader, here someone will start to lead a song or whatever and the others join in.

A vision that is so stirring in me would be to have a base to work at. Then to go into the bush where people are and encourage them. To help them build a church building and homes for the people. To help them to become established for two to three weeks or two to three months. Whatever it took then go back to the base for a while then back out to another area. This has been so on my mind. It is something I will lay in God's hand.

They don't have hospital and jail ministry here. Our visits to the jail and hospital showed us it is so open and so needed. There is no one here to fill the shoes. So much to be done and so few workers.

The question came up to Heidi if it was recommended if a single woman wanted to be a missionary. She said yes but it was strongly advised that there should be two woman together.

It is the last week of the school. It seems so strange. The time here has been so wonderful.

Monday I will be going back to the lady who cooks for us. She is going to teach us how to make this coconut things that look kinda like donuts. She takes the food and sells along the street.

One of the humorous things here is the people have learned we like peanuts. They have been making the peanuts in all different kinds of ways so we will buy them. It has been working. One of the ways is sugar peanuts. I am going to try to make some when I am back home again. They have tried to see what else we like and are now selling all along the streets for us. I laugh because they have found us to be quite a market for them.

I brought some powerbands with me. Those little bracelets with the beads telling the salvation story. The pastors have been carrying them out into the village and the bush. The pastors here loved them. When I go into the village I now see little children wearing the powerbands along with the children here at the base. It is so great.

I will be going on outreach deep in the bush on the 15th until the 19th. Please hold us in prayer. We will travel deep into the bush taking up to five and six hours to reach the people.

When I get back from the bush it will be time to being saying my goodbyes. My group will be leaving here on the 21st at 5 a.m. your time arriving back in Seattle on the 23rd. The airport here is a tiny place about the size of a small living room. Big enough for a small conveyor belt and counter. It will be strange coming back into the world that I use to know. I have told my family that I want to spend time with them for a few days before going out. Please allow me that time when I come. I know it will be a difficult transition and ask your prayers.

You know, they have big bats here. Some of the people saw elephants on the last out reach.

Ashlee

Monday, 1 Aug 2005

2005-08-01T10:20:00.000-07:00

The last time I email all of you through my mom we had visited a jail. A man who is a cousin of one of the people here had been put in jail because a woman told the police he had stolen a cell phone. This week we went back to the jail and brought more bread. The guards had told us before we could come and bring our music and even talk with the prisoners. However this time they told us we had to have a letter to bring bread. We thought that would be easy but it hasn't been. We do want to go back but we have to get the letters.

Our trip to the jail was not in vain though. We did get to see our friend again and minister to the guards a bit more. We sat with our friend and began to read to him from the Bible the various places where Jesus had set people free from jail. We prayed with him and left. On Tuesday the judge let him off! On Sunday he came to the church. He was glowing. He had not accepted Jesus as his savior before but this time he came to church and received Jesus and was baptisted after the service. He also joined with us as we went to the hospital and prayed for the people with us. It is so exciting to see ones come to Jesus. Their joy and excitement as they realize how much He truly loves them.

Upon arriving at the hospital we again were stopped and told we must have a document in order to see the people. As the man started to say we had to have a document he stopped and then told us - just go. God had given us favor! We were able to pray for some of the people. Since we were a larger group of about eleven people we split into two groups. It was good. Jesus was so there. His Presence is so Precious. As soon as we prayed for one another would ask if we would pray for them. Ministering to the one - one by one.

Next we went to where the babies were. The rooms are bare cement rooms with openings covered with screens and bars so people will not break in. Metal framed cots lined up along the walls with frail people laying under a thin blanket. No medicines no nothing. In another room lay the little children. The Lord brought my attention to one little child wrapped up in a cloth. The child seemed to be only a round little body. Such compassion came over me. I knew it was the compassion of Jesus for this little one. With the love of Jesus I sat there and sang and prayed over her as she laid looking around. Such compassion, such compassion of Jesus for this little child. Later a lady came in who I found out was the grandmother. We found out the dad was not around and she lived with her grandma. When they pulled her blanket off of her she was just bones.

So many little children - so sick. No care, no medicine, just laying there. I really want to go back but my time here is getting so short.

We have had a lot of thief here lately. When walking between the school and the orphanage the students are getting held up at knife point. We have been warned there is a band that is planning to come and take all our things; but we are trusting in God. He is our protector. One day this last week I hear a whistle and then one of the people yelled a word which meant "thief". Many ran so fast after him. It was crazy, crazy! He had pic-pocketed one of the people. All I could see were men running after the thief across a big field and then arms and legs flying as they caught him.

Continue to keep us in prayer. We still have not heard what the effects are going to be about the vitamins that were sent here. It is still in the newspaper accusing us of drug dealings. The people here look upon us with great favor because they see what we are doing but this is still serious. Please keep praying for us.

School is finished on the 14th. We were told we can go on a five day trip into the bush and to put our name on the list if we were interested. They will leave on the 14th and be out until the 19th and doing many things and going very deep into the bush. Only 40 will be able to go. I am so excited because I was able to get into one of the last two places let.

The need is so great here that it could crush you. Outside of the campus the people are constantly stopping you asking and begging. So many children on the streets. So much struggling.

When we first arrived we found one boy how would run up to people and hit and poke the people with sticks. He was like a wild animal. We kept loving on him and now he is changing and doing much better. He lives with his mom. His dad is dead. When one of the ministers went to see the family they hadn't eaten in three days. They only had one set of clothing which was what they wore. So poor.

It is so amazing here. You can always feel the burden of people. They are saying, "help me, I am hungry, do you have food, do you have water?" So much going on.

God is providing! We again were able to feed the people this Sunday after church. So many, so many.

Tomorrow I will be meeting with them for the purpose of those wishing to work in Africa.

Blessings to all of you who are praying for me. I can really feel those prayers. Please do not let up. The warfare is increasing. The threat of the thieves is increasing. But our God is able to carry us through!

Thank you for your faithfulness.

I will be home on the 23rd. My heart is in Africa. Please hold me in prayer as I must make a decision.

In Christ,

Ashlee

Sun, 24 Jul 2005

2005-07-24T10:12:00.000-07:00

Please hold us in a special prayer. (This will be 10 a.m. their time and 7 p.m. Sunday night for us) Tomorrow we are going back to a prison we visited last week where a guy has been put there because a lady paid the police and told them he stole a cell phone. The prisoners have to paid to even get a drink of water or anything to eat. It is really really bad. They sleep on the dirty floor and have to pay to have a mat to sleep on. We were able to talk with him in the prison. I had brought the Portuguese bible I had brought with me to Africa and was able to give it to him with some bread we brought with us.

We asked the guards of the prison if we could come back and bring a guitar with us the next time. They were hesitant but when we told them we were from "Iris" they were very open. We are going to bring back some more food for the prisoners and a mat for the one guy we had visited to sleep on.

The guards ask us to bring bibles for them also and they would bring all the prisoners out to listen to us. Approximately 200 people are in the prison. The Lord has opened the door for us to bring bread and preach the word. It is not known what will happen but God has opened the way I am really excited. This is an area that "Iris" has not been able to get into.

It seems crazy to having this going through my mind but I really want to go into one of the prisons. To see how they must live and feel what they must be feeling. The place smelled really bad. As the only white girl among the group visiting there they watch me closely but I feel God's wonderful peace. The guards searched the guys but not the girls.

We will be visiting the hospital tomorrow. Please keep us in prayer. We were able to go there the other day. There is nothing there. It is such a poor nation. Mothers sitting holding their sick little children in their laps. IVs hanging off of poles next to them. No medicines as we know it.

Some of the children here have scabies so on Monday we went searching through the village to find medicine. The hospital has nothing. It took us all day but we were able to find some of the medicine needed.

It has been incredible awesome! The people come and sit around on the sidewalks outside. They kept asking why all these white people are here. Now we are telling them. This school has been able to be a part of the first in many things. We were the first to bring in the people from the village. Many are beggers. They beg for money and for food. They have been coming! Heidi has been opening the gates and the people come and we just love on them. We are going to start feeding them during the lunch on Sundays. Before we didn't have enough food but now we have. Today we started to feed them after church. There were hundreds of kids! All lined us to eat beans and rice. So many. It was so precious to be able to feed them for both physically and spiritually.

To go to school the family has to pay but most are too poor here. Some will be in their twenties and only be in the second year of school because they can't afford to pay. They work and save a little money and go as they are able. Heidi is going to start a school for the children and not charge for it. I told the lady and her family that we went to see on Friday. Their eyes were wide and they were amazed! This will mean so much to the people.

Malaria is like the common cold here except you can die from it. One of the pastors here has it. We were able to pray with him. He was very weak.

Friday night I went back to this ladies house. She made a cake! It was amazing! I don't know how she made it. We were so blown away! The way they have to cook it is amazing but yet she made us a cake!

If anyone wants to seed into what is going on here it would be so wonderful. It is really here. It is not just preaching to them but loving them. Filling their hungry bellies, putting roofs over their heads and now being able to educate them. Real life things.

I have been asked about the living conditions a little more in regards to our water. The conditions here makes it so all have to pump water. I have been able to take one shower since being here. The water just is not here. If it just happens to be running then you get a shower, but usually it is only a trickle. Usually we take bucket baths. Since we are so close to the Indian Ocean the water from the well is salty so we are able to buy bottled water. The school has been able to bring in a tank of water for our use also.

I have been asked if you can mail things here. Yes, but it is very expensive and it takes a long time and there is no guarantee we will get it. The best way to donate is to bring it if you are coming or given in money through Iris' website.

Blessings to all of you,

Ashlee

Fri, 15 Jul 2005

2005-07-15T10:11:00.000-07:00

We went to a ladies house the other day so she could teach us about their cooking. She was dressed in her best dress. We would consider it rags in America. Here it was the best. She had gone to the beach early in the morning to get fresh fish instead of the market because in the market it lays in the open and is not very fresh. She wanted it to be the best for us. It was so humbling. When the food was finished they stood back and had us eat first. The people gathered around. The children were laughing and playing. It was so awesome.

The orphan children of the village are so thankful to be able to come into our church. When Heidi opens the gates they run in and start dancing and worshiping. We have been warned they will steal our stuff if we don't watch.

The children, so many have no parents to cloth or feed them. Heidi has said they are going to start a school. It cost money to go to school here. The cost is only something like $5.00 a year. A college is only $1000. a year yet the people can't go because they have no money. Unemployment is 75%

The people say they love us being here because we love them.

Some of the villagers believe if they pray to the devil then the devil will leave them alone. We have found that this is when we hear the drums. They will begin about 9 pm and continue through the night until about 3 am. We can feel the warfare so strongly. Last night we started shouting Jesus! The enemy is defeated! Now we know what we are up against so we are going to go back into the village and take back the kingdom for God and not allow the enemy to prevail. Please hold us in prayer as we go. This is real warfare!

I really just want to see Jesus come. A man in the village talks about seeing a massive huge Angel walking through the village about 15 years ago. He didn't know what it was. He was only about 15 years old at the time.

Things are not always wonderful as it may seem. The children come from the streets and hard areas. As a result I have seen much violence between them at times. One of the guys from the school was walking back from the village by himself and was jumped and robbed of his backpack. We do not go anyplace alone. We must always be in a group. There is always a sense of needing to watch our backs but yet it is so cool seeing everything happening.

To be a part of seeing the people hear about Jesus the first time. The excitement in their faces. It is so precious to be a part of.

Right now as I am talking with my parents and my mom is typing this message to you I am in line to get my tea and Oh I am getting milk in my tea today. My roll for this morning. Oh, this tea is so good with the milk.

Blessings to all of you,

Ashlee

Sun, 10 Jul 2005

2005-07-10T10:10:00.000-07:00

Since it is so difficult for me to get to the Internet I am having my parents send out these emails. They are also reading me your emails. Thank you for all your prayers.

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To get around here we climb into the back of a big truck. At breakfast we get one roll to eat. Sometimes it is older so it is a bit hard. We get tea to drink with roll and sometimes with milk. The tea is made from the well water which is salty so we have to boil it. For lunch we might have rice with fish which have heads and all. We might have an hard boiled egg with potatoes and this green stuff that looks like Spinach. We eat everything with our hands. I don't use silverware. After being sick I ate out twice because of being so weak. It seemed so strange.

The other day we went to the village and bought candy for the kids and some peanut butter for the breakfast rolls. It will be nice to have something a little different.

I sleep under a mosquito net each night. As a little girl I thought it would be nice to have a canopy over my bed. I find I don't really like it much, it gets in the way.

The mosquitoes don't seem to be too bad. It is not mosquito season here now. I have only been bitten a couple times on my hands and feet.

Someone was saying it was 90 degrees the other day but it seemed cold to me. The climate is so different. When it rains it pours. Everyone runs for shelter but we from the Northwest run into it and love it!

Everyday we are under a canopy roof for the school and church. It is filling up for church. Each day we go and love on the people in the community and invite them to the church. They are coming.

One of the pastors needed a hair cut and I was able to buy him a haircut. It is so wonderful to bless these people with just little things. It is so fun to watch the excitement of blessing them.

Life is difficult here. Some of the people who came for the school have left because of the difficulty. The bugs, the dirt, lack of sanitation as we know it. It is a very difficult life. Not everyone is called to the third world countries. We bless those who have come rather they stay or go for each have had their lives changed in a wonderful way through Jesus Christ.

Here the cars have the right a way. I was walking down the street and one of the pastors grabbed me and placed me between him and another pastor. He told me that if anyone got killed from the car it would be him and not me. They are so protective of us. It is wonderful.

This next week some of us will go into one of the oldest villages in Pemba. A lady makes candy and sells it in Pemba. We are going to go and help her make the candy. I also will be going to this other place to learn how to cook the food they eat here. A couple of fun things God is blessing me with.

Please hold me in prayer. The next step. I really don't know how I will be able to go back to where I was before. It was such a dead-end. I am really asking Father what He wants me to do. Heidi has been teaching us about the cultural eyes of here. Of being a missionary. One thing she said was anyone who feels God is calling them to Iris to let them know. I felt the Lord is asking me to do this. I gave them my name. I just know I am called to Africa. I am asking Lord where. They are going to be setting up meetings to speak with us.

Today the church service was so powerful. So beautiful.

People think of Africa as having so many miracles. But you need to know there are many miracles that do not happen. The life here is very hard. The people grab hold and do not stop praying until God answers.

Heidi has been saying that God is going to bring people who God is going give great favor that will be bringing huge containers of food here. Containers of food, of vegetables and fruits that is so needed. She has seen it! We are praying for the answer to come quickly.

I am trying to get as many pictures as possible to bring home but it is very difficult because of the peoples beliefs.

Thank you for your prayers,

Blessings and much love from Pemba,

Ashlee

Wed, 6 Jul 2005

2005-07-06T10:02:00.000-07:00

Thank you so much for your prayers. I am much better. After about four days I'm up on my feet again. It was a strange time. There were others that were sick. A strange feeling in the room with many having strange dreams and nightmares. Many prayers were said over the room along with anointing everything. The sickness, dreams and strange feeling has lifted.

Another member of the school and I walked through the village today. We met a woman that he had met before and went to her house. Zak had prayed for the woman's child when he was here last. Today we found she had just lost her little baby from Malaria. She also had Malaria and was really sick. She was grief stricken from the death of her child. We were able to pray with her and offer comfort. She does know Jesus. (Please hold Zak in prayer. He is having a hard time dealing with the lost of this child after he had prayed.)

We stop for the one. We were invited into a little house with just dirt walls and grass roof. We prayed with the woman of the house. She had accepted Jesus before and wanted us to teach her more. When we were to leave she crumpled to the floor in tears. She didn't want us to leave she wanted to hear more. They are so hungry to learn of Jesus here.

One of the students at the school from England has been wanting to do film clips of the ministry and village. I have been asked to help him. On Tuesday we will be going into the village and talking with the children and people on the streets. We bought some candy as a special treat for the children.

The children are so happy here. The boys racing through the buildings playing tag; the girls singing and playing. They had gotten into something that looked like concrete and had it all over themselves. The laugh and laugh. Such simplicity, such joy in the children. Big beautiful eyes shining up at you with such love.

One of the main things I have been learning here is that it is all wrapped around love. Loving the people with the love of Christ. Stopping for the one and loving them.

Again, thank you for your prayers,

Ashlee

Sat, 2 Jul 2005

2005-07-02T10:01:00.000-07:00

I am sick today so am sending this through my mom. She is typing the message to all of you while I am resting on my bed talking with her via the computer speakers.

Blessings to all of you from Mozambique.:
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Different ones of those living in Africa had family members die this last week. They didn't seem to be bothered much by it. They asked if this did not happen in US much. To them it is common place.

Last night the drums were going in the village again. It sounded like an animal was being killed. Kinda strange. When I first arrived we used to hear the drums more often.

We have water early in the morning or later in the evening - sometimes. If the well goes dry we don't have water. We have to hand pump the water and can only use it for bathing. We do have electricity - sometimes. A couple hours a day maybe. We have a refrigerator in our room but we have to use the food quickly because of the little electricity.

One thing God is teaching me is a missionary is what we do and who we are. Incarnal missions is being with the people and going with the people. Gleaming with them being fully a part of their lives. Learning the language and their cultural. Then you can tell them the good news.

One guy accepted Jesus in the morning and that night he wanted to be baptisted. When he was baptist he saw fire coming from the person's hands. He asked if that was not painful?? He started pastor's school right away.

I went to the 5 star hotel the other day with one of the other people here. I wanted to see what my reaction would be. It seems so unreal! I went into the bathrooms and they had an automatic fan. I stood there and looked and then started to cry. It was almost like a little child seeing a new thing. I don't know how I am going to handle it when I get home.

The fact I can take medicine when I am home but here there is nothing. Here they can pray or go to the witch doctor. For us it is to pray of course. It is so different.

It is such a blessing to know everyone is praying. We all really need it. Please keep praying.

For now I must go and rest.

Thank you for your prayers,

Ashlee

Sun, 26 Jun 2005

2005-06-26T09:23:00.000-07:00

Just got back from another outreach. It is really good.

A wave of repentance went through the school this last week. It was wonderful. It really broke open something. We have been having some incredible times. One day the Holy Spirit was saying we were to be anointed. We had water poured over us. A time of silence came waiting before the Lord. They needed oil so I took the oil that Momma gave me and gave it to them. It was set on the alter. I knew it was to be used for a certain person but didn't know who. As they anointed us it was like the River of God came and then there was the most incredible freedom. The worship was like a song of heaven came with the singing and the instruments. It was so powerful and awesome. The oil momma gave me was then poured over someones head and something was broken off the person.

One day we had a foot washing time with the Pastors. It was so powerful and amazing. The Pastors washed our feet and then dried them with their shirts. It was so so so.

Every Friday we go out around to the villages. Heidi is teaching us to be a "learner" and learn their language and culture. We are to learn so that it will be a key to their heart. We go out and talk with the people. I am getting really good at Portuguese.

I was with another girl from the school. We stopped and sat on a curb to talk with some children. When we looked up we discovered we had a crowd developing around us. We talked with the people. We invite them to the church. We don't have to say who we are or where we are from. It is a big thing to the villages here about all the white people here.

I was sitting on the beach today with one of the pastors. I just wanted to lay with the Lord. When I looked up there was this little girl about 10 or 11 looking at me. She just looked at me. I closed my eyes because I wanted to be alone but when I opened them she was still there so I started talking to her. I would draw a house in the sand and she would draw a house and laugh. We started building sand castles. The people watch us and laugh and laugh. There is such simplicity and joy here.

It has been Spiritually exhausting this last week. I have felt I have been watching and observing. The Lord said I was a Pillar of Fire and a Sword in His hand. I have been watching and asking Him how to handle different things. The Lord has been warning about some things and I am seeing them happen. He is guiding me.

The secret service came to take Heidi to jail the other day. They thought she was trafficking children. Heidi had to take some of the children to talked to them. The secret service person talked with the children. The children ended up telling the secret service person about Jesus and praying for and giving her a Bible. The Secret Service Official said they were going back to the officials and telling them the truth.

Another blind can see, a person with a whithered arm was healed. It has been very very good. Just spending a lot of time in that secret place with Jesus.

Learning so much about relationship in this culture. Women's and children's roles.

Yesterday was Mozambique's 30 year independence. They gave the pastors a little package with a T-shirts, tooth brushes, etc. Things we think nothing of. The pastors ran out of the tent to their places with such excitement for such little things. It was humbling to see such joy over what we would think of as so little. Many of us were in tears at their excitement. To them it is so much.

Irismin.com will be putting information on the web of the school. I don't know if it is up now but we have been told it is coming.

There is a family that came here. They are doing awesome. All the kids was sick one with Malaria but are all well now. They are totally blending in. The oldest is blending with the kids and carrying the little ones around. They are so hungry for the Lord. There are families that came. They are doing so well.

There is so much love here in this culture. A very touchy loving people. Guys are holding guys hands walking together swinging their arms and it is not thought anything of. They walk up to you and grab your hand as they talk with you. A very warm culture. Everyone always say hello.

Keep praying for all of the team. We all need and Covet your prayers. Also please remember to hold our families at home up.

Blessings to all of you,