Dear Friends,

Another chapter in our wok and ministry has concluded, and we rejoice in all that was accomplished as we continued to bring hope to the people of Zimbabwe through our skills and talents.

To recap, Steve arrived in Bulawayo by himself a week before Jane (he decided that traveling alone is not for him), and began consulting and teaching at the Richard Morris Eye Hospital and at the NUST Medical school. Jane arrived and four days later our team from First Baptist Church of Columbus, Georgia came to work and minister in the local schools and orphanages. Several of the team members also coached basketball clinics, linking skills teaching with sharing of their faith. The whole team was also able to participate in an eye camp. Over 150 patients had their eye problems addressed, and were also presented with the gospel message. Overall, the team’s experience was filled with great joy as they ministered in so many ways to the people of Zimbabwe. 

Steve’s close friend, Dr. Gordon Fort, was the guest speaker at the annual Baptist Union of Zimbabwe meeting. He arrived on a whirlwind visit of only 5 days, but he spoke 8 times to the group of pastors and church members who had gathered from all over the country to meet. His messages brought spiritual encouragement to so many who face great difficulties and, in many cases, isolation as they lead their churches in remote areas of the country.

We spent several days seeing and examining patients at the Mater Dei Hospital to conclude our ministry. The challenges of living in Zimbabwe were also brought home to us as we experienced theft of solar panels and electrical lines to our house, as well as the failure of our solar power sources. However, good friends assisted us in restoration of these losses, and we are so thankful for their kindness. 

We look forward to returning early next year. The new eye center at the Mater Dei Hospital will be completed, and we believe that the standard of eye care will continue to improve as we strive to empower our local colleagues in their skills and delivery. Thank you again for your support and prayers for us as we continue the work and ministry of bringing eye care to the people of Zimbabwe and Southern Africa.

Blessings,

Steve & Jane Beaty