What was an empty lot in an unreached village, 3 months later became a vibrant church with a building and over 60 church members. Pastor Steven, under the mentorship of RTC house dad, Pastor George, is faithfully serving this far out village while also attending Bible College in Tabora. Our team recently visited Steven at his church, built this year by RTC, and found a vibrant spiritual leader impacting lives by the love of Christ. There are many challenges facing the community of Miyega, but the hope of Jesus is becoming known.
Our journey to Miyega was nothing smooth. Pastor George first found the village after looking at Tabora records to find which villages did not yet have a church. It was dry season when he took Andy on an hour drive down a footpath to pray over the land. This journey turned out to be a bit more difficult when our team visited during rainy season this past January.
Over 2 hours later, a river crossing, and some battles with sinking mud, I started to hear music in the distance. With the sun just beginning to set, I had grown nervous and a bit tired from the drive. All of that went away the second we turn the corner to see a flood of people singing and laughing and cheering as we finally arrived. They had waited hours and were more than ready to greet us and worship Jesus together.
I was completely humbled by the sweetness I found in Miyega. Those who could communicate with me were beaming with joy over their new church. Pastor Steven, who had been our guide on the journey, shivered from the cold waters he waded through on the way but still jumped into action leading worship and pastoring the people. I teared up because of the sweetness in the room. The excitement and crowd and realization of what we got to be a part of was absolutely energizing. Even more special was the tender presence of the Holy Spirit. No event or mission could ever replace His presence, and I am so grateful we got to experience this together with the believers at our newest RTC church in Miyega.
