It was a great pleasure to have so many of our friends from Zimbabwe with us on the occasion of the Church Centenary. Despite the chilly weather our African friends enjoyed seeing so much of the Highlands and Islands. Crossing the Minch for those who had never seen the sea was an exciting experience, although not altogether enjoyable for some.
The Rev. Z. Mazvabo and Mrs Mazvabo spent a few pleasant and interesting days in Holland, and attended the Mbuma Zending Meeting when usually seven thousand of a congregation are present and give most liberally to support the Mission work in Africa. Mr and Mrs Mazvabo then came to Scotland to join the others.
After the Synod the Rev. P. Mzamo went off to Chesley, Ontario to conduct services at the Communion. Thereafter he was to go to Washington D.C. to visit his son and his family, whom he had not seen for many years.
In Kenya the registration of the Church has proved difficult. Apparently, in the past the larger churches became involved in politics. So the Government decided to register no new churches. However, the Government has now agreed to register the church although the document is not yet in hand. When it is, the licensing of the clinic will follow and Miss Celia Rennes will also be registered as a nurse. Dr Christine has been given permission to practice at Sengera as a General Practitioner.
The church building at Sengera will have to be extended as it was built to hold one hundred, but the congregation now numbers one hundred and fifty. Quoting from a letter from Mr Donald MacDonald: “We now find ourselves on our own once more after having Dr Tallach and Mr Dick Vermeulen with us. Dr Tallach visited many of our places and preached at most of them. His services have been appreciated. We enjoyed his help and advice with regard to organising the hospital. On Friday we had a gathering of many different people to say goodbye to our friends, and to thank Mr Vermeulen for the hard work he has put in over the last four years. It was a pleasant occasion. On Sabbath Mr Vermeulen took the service for the last time as their missionary. It was a solemn and thought-provoking occasion, and we hope that the Word of God will be blessed to many.
Miss Jessie Coote is at home in Inverness on furlough after a very strenuous session. Miss Marion Graham is also on furlough. Before returning home she visited Australia and New Zealand. J.N.