Cantrells In Africa

Emptiness

2010-12-08T13:16:00.000-08:00

We live in a world of accumulation and at times I find myself evaluating the things that I hold in my hands. The old cliche demands the question, “Is the cup half empty or half full?”, does not exactly pertain to my writing this evening.

I say, “Lord, empty me. Pour me out. Take from me that which keeps me from you. Empty me completely of me.”

Walking through a village east of Ouagadougou arrested my thoughts. The huts were basic, no running water, no electricity, no furniture, no beds. I was invited inside to find just a few mud buildings and mats on the floor for sleeping. There appeared to be just the bare essentials for life.

It was empty. It was void of any western amities. The villagers had never heard of a microwave or internet. They did not know what it was like to take a hot shower, or to have clothes that smelled like fabric softener. It had never occurred to them that there were cruise ships that could carry you to far away islands, where food was unending and ports were full of trinkets to buy.

This village had not experienced fullness.

It was empty. The difference between that village and me was that I am full. I am full of culture, full of vain ideas, full of self, yes full of me.

“Lord, take me to a place of emptiness. Not void of your Spirit, just void of myself.”

We live in a world of accumulation. We constantly are adding ideas, plans, programs, self promotion and even self affirmation.

Walk among an empty village.

Hear the sounds of children singing.

Smell the cut of fresh corn.

Sit with the Chief of the village.

Breath in every feeling. Experience emptiness.

How is your cup? Is it half empty of half full?

Three men sitting on a bench.

2010-09-26T12:08:00.000-07:00

Three men sitting on a bench.

Two are muslim.

One a Christian.

One is blind.

One is a leper.

One is well.

All are in need of a savior.

Darkness

2010-09-22T15:49:00.001-07:00

They came from all over the city, all twelve to fifteen of them. Feeling their way down the crowded streets of red clay. Every step was taken with extreme care. Every turn made with the memory of times past.

They came looking for something. They came looking for something that would satisfy more than the emotions of the mind or the strength of the body. They came looking for a savior.

And came they did. When we arrived they sat quietly eating some rice mixed with a sauce of some sort. I made my rounds, gently touching them on the hand or the shoulder to let them know that I was near.

One man stood and told their story, he began:

“We consider it a great honor to be with you today. You can see us, but we can not see you. We are productive people, we work with our hands and are not on the streets begging for money. This church has been very good to us. This Pastor has a great vision for this city. We are very thankful for this church and pray that their endeavors would be successful.”

My body pressed back against the chair as he spoke. How can a blind man speak of vision when he cannot see? What is it in his heart that I lack? He felt his way down the streets of Bobo that day to tell me a story from his heart. Was it the courage to press past the limitations of living in darkness and walking in light? Maybe it was overcoming the churning in his stomach when he laid down to sleep. It was not clear, but he held a gift that I have not yet received.

He stood and he prayed for me. Yes, for me, the young missionary with no handicaps, a picture of health, no cares in the world. This sixty year old blind man prayed for me.

I have nothing more to say but God help me see not with my eyes, but with my heart.

The Clouds are Heavy Today

2010-08-07T05:19:00.000-07:00

The clouds are heavy over our street today. You can see just a small parcel of blue trying to press it’s way through the expanse of gray. No squeals of laughter from the children.

You see, yesterday when the sun had set a cry arose from the depths of the neighborhood. We stood on the terrace and wondered if it was combined prayer of a nearby church. It was not prayer, but the cries of a family who had just learned that the father had just been killed. A muslim man of 35 or so. Typical of West Africa he had at least two wives and many children. Many times the children, mostly babies, would play in tattered clothing in front of our home. As I would leave our home they would sing a song that I taught them. I would sing,” J’ai une bon bon pour vous.” and they would reply, “Avez-vous des bon bon pour moi?” me-(I have a piece of candy for you) them-(Do you have some candy for me?)

This day they did not ask for candy. I sat quietly on the ground in front of the house.

They came and sat beside me. No words were spoken, they would not look up while silent tears fell onto the hard earth.

The clouds are heavy over our street today as well as my heart. Another son left this earth not reconciled to the Father.

We carried over some food as a token of our sympathy for the family. Still, I do not know if it pleased my Father. The bread of life should have been taken over many weeks ago long before the motorcycle left the road. I missed the mark.

Paul said, 2 CORINTHIANS 5:

¹⁸And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

¹⁹To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.

²⁰Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.

Tomorrow the clouds will not be so heavy and the sun will break through again, but today is a day of evaluation. Weighing out what is really important, what really matters.

“Oh, God, be a Father to the fatherless today I pray”

Freedom Found

2010-07-31T00:00:00.001-07:00

She waited around long after the service. She waited.

We noticed her as she quietly walked toward the man of God to talk. She talked.

Her story was quick but she left out no details.

A child of the traditional worship of West Africa. Fetish worship, or as we understand it, Voodoo.

It is a worship of the elements. A trust in the curse, a belief in a doctor who can not heal but can curse and hold back curses. Or so they believe. A trust in a Witch Doctor.

Her mother had been converted to Christ and the family objected. The Bible was kept in a solitary place in their mud shanty possibly hidden among the few articles of clothing that she owned.

She came to talk and she did.

The curse had come to the home. Once a good student, school had become difficult, she explained.

Confusion and fear had entered the home.

She came to talk and to ask for prayer against the dark world of West Africa.

Ginny held her hand as we began to pray for protection and to send back the curse from where it came. The twelve year old girl had found herself in the presence of God where the curse was possibly broken and love was replaced.

The last to go, the last to leave. She waited, she talked, we prayed.

Please pray for the innocence lost in a generation turned over to the religions of tradition. “Greater is He...we know the scripture, but they need the He in them.”

Burkina Faso, July 2010

"My eyes have seen it all."

2010-06-20T08:42:00.000-07:00

The tree to which we sat under was magnificent. It's roots ascended from the ground and then almost violently pressed their way back down in to the hard earth below. They had a job to do. They stretched their fingers deep into the recesses of the ground for life. They looked for the waters to soothe their parched branches.

Under it's canopy we sat with new friends that we had not known before today.

The first to offer a chair was one of the elders of the village. He wore no shirt and his trousers were torn, but his eyes held the riches of past memories. I was captured by his glance.

"What had he seen in his many years?" I asked myself.

These gentle eyes must have cried both tears of joy and tears of pain. These eyes have been blurred from the sands that blow from the north and cleansed from the rains from heaven. These wonderful yet old eyes have seen it all.

They had seen every emotion that his dear wife had experienced, for example, the birth of the son. The one who drove us to meet him that wonderful day. They have looked to the skies and prayed for the rains in the times of drought. Oh, what have these eyes seen?

How many tears have they cried? How many memories have they captured?

Though appearing cloudy from the outside they held many things on the inside.

In a village far from town there is a tree so magnificent and grand, who's roots reach deep into the earth. Sitting under the protection of this tree is an elder of a village, a man of wisdom, who's eyes have seen it all.

She chose just to look in

2010-06-18T00:32:00.000-07:00

It was like most every Sunday.

Temperature sitting proudly at 105 degrees.

The drums were playing in rhythm.

People were dancing and singing praises.

She chose just to look inside.

I caught the sunlight as it danced across her face.

Innocence captured for a moment in time.

Was it the music that called her to the window?

The car that sat is an area that seldom saw cars?

News that a missionary had come that day?

Most assuredly it was the call of the Master.

A kind, loving and calling God.

He had called her to the window that morning.

She chose just to look in.

He chose just to love her.

Little Man on the Bench

2010-06-11T14:43:00.000-07:00

He sat on the bench most of the service not moving an inch. I think he was trying not to be noticed. With my camera in hand I slowly approached him. He did not stir as I clicked away trying to capture his innocence. Quiet as a mouse he sat not speaking or giving any facial expressions. What a picture of the wonder of a child. Thank you Little Man

Siberi's Heart

2010-06-10T02:17:00.000-07:00

Ouagadougou June 10,2010

Siberiʼs Heart

It was a day like most days in Burkina Faso, the temperature had reached itʼs peak.

Quite possibly 103 degrees. In our room I had just gotten cleaned up, that is washing the sweat from my brow, when a knock at the door.

“Pastor Siberi is here sir.” the man said. I walked outside to greet our Assistant

Superintendent. He is an elderly man for Africa, most likely in his late 50ʼs. Thin around the belt with specks of grey in his hair. He greeted me in typical African style, ﬁrst a

hand shake and then an embrace.

It was not clear why he had come to visit. I believe it was just to see where we were

staying. We talked about my vision for Burkina Faso and how the North American

churches had prayed on a map of Burkina Faso as we deputized. We talked about

beginning Bible school classes and I showed him pictures of our children and grandson

in the states.

It was a time of connecting our hearts together for one purpose. To see Burkina Faso,

West Africa bring in a great harvest of souls.

He carried a worn leather sack with him. At the time the contents were unknown. Maybe

it was full of important documents, possibly ofﬁcial church papers. In my case my bag

contains my laptop, a calculator, money, pass ports and such.

His worn hands reached down for the bag as I awaited to see the secrets it contained.

Within the worn leather sack contained several stacks of paper. More important than a

laptop, more important than ofﬁcial church papers, more important than pictures of

family and friends. Contained within the sack were invitations and teaching on salvation.

Some written in French and some written in Moore (more-ray) language. The bag must

have contained over 60 or so tracks that he had been given out.

This great pastor had one objective that day; to evangelize his city.

After an hour or so of us communicating in my broken French, he exclaimed that it was

time to go.

We ﬁnished our drink and I began to walk him to the gate. “Where was his moto

(motor- cycle)? Did he take a taxi here? I know he lives at least 4 miles from here.” I

asked myself. He walked to a bicycle that was most likely 20 years old. This pastor had

spent his day traveling to greet me and evangelizing his city along the way.

Emotions ﬁlled my thoughts; “Would I be able to evangelize my city with just a few

tracks in hand riding a bicycle, or would I ﬁnd yet another excuse to live another day not

making a difference?”

This day I found the heart of a man, a man who is serving Christ while living the Great

Commission. Matt 28:19 He rode off on a bicycle. I was changed.

Were going back

2008-11-20T14:53:00.001-08:00

Friends and Family,

It is with great joy that we have received the "OK" to return to West Africa. After meeting the Foreign Missions Board they have appointed us to Burkina Faso as Full Time Missionaries. Niger and Mali are both under our care.

Please pray for us as we travel the USA raising support. We will begin Jan. 2nd 2009 and have a schedule through August. Hopefully we will return to West Africa in Spring of 2010.

You can view our page at http://www.upci.org/ under the Foreign Missions Section / Missionary Search.

Ken and Gin

The Wall in Kuma Adamé

2008-05-31T01:46:00.001-07:00

Walls have never been something that I would give a good recommendation to. Walls seperate, they divide and they simply and silently scream, "KEEP OUT"! Walls do have some benefits like keeping intruders out and the family dog in.

I recently traveled to a remote village near the town of Kpalimé. It is nestled in the mountains where the air is cooler and the villagers are true villagers. There was something inside of me that was needing to get alone for some time with God. So with a supply of water, and my backpack I headed to the village for 5 days of mental shutdown.

Being an avid hiker the feel of the mountains gives me the John Denver "Sunshine on my shoulders" kind of happiness. You know the kind of feeling that you get while hiking the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. Memories of my good friend Brad Gilliland made me long for home. Brad and I hiked all over Rocky Mountain Natl Park a few years back. He is a good mountain buddy!

I treked all over the village mountain range discovering all types of people and food. In the pictures you will see a couple of school kids that I met on the path.

I could not help to think of the thousands of children in Uganda who ran on paths such as I walked hiding from the rebels who hunted them down during the bloody war a few years back.

Back to the wall, every afternoon and evening a knock would come to my door. It was the neighbors bringing me some lunch or dinner. The first night it came at 8 pm. There is no electricity in the village; so with a candle I was trying to make out what lurked in the pot. It appeared to be a corn mush and some ground nut sauce. To this day I do not know what meat dwelt in that dish. Possibly goat or bush rat.

Day 2 came and again another meal. This time some rice with red sauce, again undescribable meat.

Walls are desgined to keep thing out or to keep things in. My wall was different. Every night when the villagers would go to sleep I would sneak to the wall and shuck the food over into the African darkness.

You ask, "Did you eat any of it?" my answer, "Yes, I did."

Did I get sick? Well lets say I have spent the last 5 days drinking lots of water, and eating light. The bathroom has replaced the security of the wall.

So if you are ever in a village, do not drink the water, keep away from meat that is unrecongnizable and live within the confines of a wall.

Village verses City

2008-05-17T03:13:00.000-07:00

A few months ago, I was able to visit a village school. WOW! I really did step back in time of what felt like 100 years. I do thank God for what they do have, but how my heart wanted to scream out for the children to have more. One thing I did notice was how happy the children were. There was lots of laughter and singing of songs pouring out of the cement blocks that had high ventilation holes towards the ceiling and a few windows. I would have to guess that there were at least 60 children pressed in together in a very hot room.

A few days ago, I found out that in our neighborhood, a very nice christian lady has opened a school in her home. It started out as just a daycare/preschool, but in the past four years it has grown from 9 students her first year to over 60 children. She I believe to be 5 teachers and a cook on staff.

She asked that I would pray for the Lord to give her a new establishment because she has out grown her home. She said her vision for this ministry was not as big as what God is making it out to be. Madam Seli is taking it one step at a time and trying to go slow to let the Lord lead.

She has secret she told me, that I want to pass onto you. She said that her secret is to teach these children all about Jesus. It is a private school and some parents pay a small amount and some don't.

If anybody who is reading this blog feels anything to help Seli and her endeavors, she gave me a small list of things she is in need of. I have a friend, Venita that is coming here June 14 to visit, and it maybe possible for her to bring some things. Email for further info, if interested. Most of all Madame Seli has asked for prayer.

Let me say this, from what I saw, I believe in what she is doing. Madame Seli is very educated and actually lived in Manhattan, KS for 3 years and worked in our American schools. She is trying to implement all that she learned but is so limited due to lack of resources and funds.

(first 2 photos of the village school, llast photo of Madame Seli and one of her classrooms)

Je suis très contente!

2008-05-17T02:31:00.000-07:00

Je suis très contente! (I am very happy!)

Hello to all our great friends and family. May has proved to be full of lots of fun activities. Or maybe it is just that I am getting use to things here and I am much braver to venture out. Of course our French studies continue to take precedence over any activities we do. Everyday, French! Ken and I have finally come to the realization that this language absolutely has no absolutes. It’s as fluid as water and is just as hard to contain.

Today was girls shopping day. We were so excited when we saw a Macey’s and even a Banana Republic. I can’t really say that is was up to American standards, but hey, one can not be picky. Honestly, I have come to love the open-air markets rather than the stores. Jennifer has gotten very good and bartering. As for me, I’m still working on it.

Beach time is always a favorite. When I am missing home, I especially like to go to the beach and sit on the rocks with the waves crashing below might feet. I stare straight out only seeing the ocean-blue (Atlantic) with Africa behind me. It’s my time, just me and God, and He talks to me. I never leave there not feeling strengthened and comforted. Don’t take this wrong, I love Africa, I just equally miss my family and friends.

New friends are always a blessing. Danielle is a beautiful young lady from the Netherlands God has brought into our lives. She is such a delight to be around and is very anxious to learn more about Jesus. And she speaks English! Being able to communicate and teach her has been very timely a breath of fresh air.

There are days that are not all fun, but requires a bit of work. Jennifer and Erica (Erica is Jennifer’s friend that is visiting us from the states) helped Emma this day to separate the bad palm oil nuts from the good. Emma has become another family member. We all love her dearly.

I am sad to say that it is near the time for Jennifer to leave us. I am cherishing every moment I have with her. I am thankful that God has allowed her to be with us this year. My prayer is that it has forever changed her and has birthed the spirit of missions into her soul.

God Still Moves Over the Waters

2008-04-22T02:35:00.000-07:00

God Does Move Over the Waters

In Gen 1:1 the Bible says that the Spirit of God was hovering over the waters.

This scripture came alive to me yesterday after enjoying a glorious day in the presence of God. I traveled about 45 kilometers to a small village/town called Akoumapa. The congregation was small in number, but large in worship. In the Old Testament it talks about David when he brought back the Ark from Obed-Edom. David danced wildly before the ark and rejoiced. He was elated to have the presence of God back. It was obvious that there was a spirit of rejoicing among this small group of saints. With every song the Spirit of God began to move over the service.

Great Grace was moving among us.

Bonito, our usual taxi driver was not available so he sent his older brother to drive me to the village. He was quiet and did not say much as we journeyed down the road. As we approached the church he told me that he was hungry and would pick me up after the service. Within a few minutes I watched him slip into the back of the church before I began to preach. The Spirit of God began to move upon him.

The temperature was about 100 degrees in that small building so you can image I was absolutely soaked to the bone after preaching and praying for people. We jumped in the car loaded with coconuts, pineapples and oranges given to us by the villagers. Needing something cold to drink I asked the driver to stop so that we could get something to drink. We sat at an outside café and the Spirit of God began to move.

The word of God began to speak to him and told him that he needed to be baptized in Jesus Name. His response, “Oh, can we do it right now? I need to be baptized immediately!”

To make a long story longer, I called Pastor Koffe and we took him and 5 others to the Ocean and baptized them in Jesus Name.

The Spirit of God Hovered over that vast ocean as He washed away the sins of an obedient taxi driver.

(Please pray for Bonito, our friend and taxi driver, his son died this week. He was only 2 1/2 years old. He became sick on Monday and passed away on Tuesday. I think he may have had cerebral malaria. The family is devastated. Bonito has buried a brother, sister and now his youngest son within just a months time. They are in need of the great grace of the Lord.)

Africa needs the help of God.

Anaho Baptism

2008-04-08T06:47:00.001-07:00

The town of Anaho Togo is located on the banks of the Atlantic Ocean, which in turn pours into Lac Togo. This Lac is the epicenter for Fetish/Voodoo worship. The spirits of this area are strong and not to be taken lightly. We recently took a boat across Lac Togo and was told of the various beliefs. They are steeped in satanic worship. Is is said that the spirit of the snake rules the lake.

I am here to proclaim differently. Jesus Christ has all things under His feet, including the spirits of Lac Togo.

We were going to the Lake to baptise 9 people in Jesus Name. It was a glorious day for the Kingdom of God. The water was clear and free of debris.

The pastor stepped out of the water immediately after the baptism. Suddenly a mass of sludge moved across the water. This sludge had the smell of stagnant water and death.

Directly in front of this sludge a snake led the way. It was evident that there was a manifestation of the spirit of this area.

I am glad that we know the true and living God!

There is power in the Name of Jesus!

Even the spirits of this world must stand and wait for the salvation of souls before they can cross the water.

Lomé Togo Crusade

2008-04-08T06:34:00.000-07:00

We recently held a crusade in the city of Lome, Togo.

Great faith was among the area churches. An estimated 50,000 fliers were passed out on the streets. The churches did a tremendous job preparing for this event.

The greeters were in position, the follow-up team was ready to capture names and addresses and the singers sang to the glory of God.

People began to fill the field where the crusade was to take place. For three nights we had an average of 3000 in attendance. When the alter calls were made they literally ran to the front hoping to receive something from the Lord.

The bible says that every man is given a measure of faith. The faith that brought them to the front made room for them in the presence of God. There were too many people for us to pray for individually so the people began to pray for one another.

In His mercy and Grace, God filled over 330 with His Spirit, and over 300 were healed instantly. Those who came with lameness walked home without their canes! Those who came burdened down with the weight of the world, danced in the presence of the King of Kings.

He is faithful to hear the cries of the people.

Lome, Togo will never be the same. The hand of God has left His fingerprints on the people.

Please continue to pray that God will continue His favor in Togo and Burkina Faso.

Thank you for your continued financial support. Without it we could not serve in this great land.

In Great African Love,

Ken and Gin

Jennifer has found her place here.

2008-03-03T10:17:00.000-08:00

It is early evening, the sun is beginning to set.

From across the wall the children begin to cry out, "Yovo, Yovo!". This means white person in the Eva language.

Jennifer grabs the soccer ball and heads out into the street. When she returns her feet are as dirty as the street itself. Jen is enjoying the people as much as they are enjoying her. I would not be surprised to see her return to West Africa after she completes her studies in the States.

Her days are spent studying the French and Eva languages, while enjoying the company and friendships of the Africans.

Saying Goodbye to Jonathon

2008-02-28T09:07:00.000-08:00

"If Love Could be Measured in Tears we Would have Filled an Ocean"

Jonathon boarded a plan Tuesday night bound for the States. Being a private person I never thought that I would post such a writing, but everyone keeps asking how we really are.
Our hearts just found a new hole. Saying goodbye to our youngest really hit hard.

Gin and I stood on the veranda Tuesday and cried silent tears. We were going to say goodbye to Jon in about 4 hours. I did not want him to see me cry, but the emotions would not stop spilling from my eyes. I asked God, "Will it always hurt this bad?" You know telling our children goodbye.

He did not respond, so I am sure that His answer was most likely "yes".

Jonathon visited the orphanage later in the afternoon. The boys, all under 6, hung on him. It was as if they knew that they would never see him again. Jon had a hard time telling them goodbye.

During the last 5 months Jonathon has found a love that is not easy to find, the love of the Africans. It is a love that runs deep in their culture. They value relationships as much as life itself. Many friends came by to say goodbye, their expression of love to Jon overwhelmed us.

As the taxi took off from the front of our house, Jules, one of Jonathon's good friends hugged him and said, "I will see you again in paradise."

Friendships and relationships must not be taken lightly. Cherish every person that God sends into your life.

Please pray for Jonathon as he begins his new life. He will be moving to Omaha Nebraska and serving in Bethel Christian Church. God is doing some great things in his life!

So, "How are we doing today you ask?" Well, please ask us again tomorrow.

Ken

Ok, now a week has past. Jon made it home fine and is VERY happy. We are over the shock and the sun is back out. Thank you for your prayers!

In Retrospect ......

2008-02-12T07:50:00.000-08:00

Friends,

Here we are, another week has gone by. There are moments when time seems to be standing still, but then as I reflect back at the months that have already passed, I ask myself, “Where has the time gone?”

I would venture to say my family has settled into what I would call our daily regiments. The life style here is of a much slower pace. I believe this is probably been the most difficult to adjust to. Also, not having our own means of transportation has only contributed to these feelings of confinement. It has taken some time for each one of us to adjust at our own pace. I can only give God the praise for helping us through this period.

Is it all pedals of sweet smelling roses? Has our time here been the utopia of life’s experiences? I would only be lying if I said it was. Truth! This is what I want to convey to you. My heart rips every time I see a small child sitting in the street with his belly bulging from mal-nutrition. Or when I see a human all twisted from birth defects sitting on the street corner begging for just a morsel of bread. With my own eyes, I see on continual bases things like a teen-age girl, using water from a dirty puddle, in the middle of town washing

her hair.

You may say to yourself, these things go on in America as well. But I would say to you not at this great of magnitude. Thank God for America and its welfare system. I know that most would agree that our welfare system is broken and we are only heading for a collapse of the system if changes are not made, but if you could see what I see. Not having humanitarian needs in the fore front of the government system has brought great deficiency among this nation and its people.

Do you know that 80% of the taxi drivers here have a college degree? And believe me when I say there are a lot of taxi and moto drivers. The women that sell vegetables and fruit on the streets for the most part have degree’s as well. Why so much poverty? The infrastructure of some of the African countries, and Togo being one, does not have industry coming in. The instability of the government causes the countries that could come in and help to develop are not willing to take the risk, therefore causes the lack of jobs, which in turn causes the onslaught of poverty. I find myself thanking God everyday that I was born an American at the same time hearing the cries of the people of Lome saying, “Why couldn’t have I been born in America?”

In retrospect, for the members of the UPCI here in Togo, I see great joy, pure worship, and a true desire to serve our Lord. For the people that have found Christ, because of their great hardships, their reverence for God goes deep within there very being.

Our desire is to continue to seek out the people of Togo, and to help take them off of the road of hardship and put them on the road of blessings. Please continue to pray not only for us, but for the people of Togo and the pastoral leadership that is here.
God Bless you all
Ginny

Another Day In Togo

2008-01-15T08:07:00.000-08:00

Friends,

The day started early today. What would take just a few minutes in the states takes a few days here. The only thing quicker here is a smile and an embrace.

I had taken a moto to a cross road to meet a friend. Naturally, I was 20 minutes early. Everyone here is 20 minutes late.

To redeem the time I walked to the corner where a woman was selling fruit and I purchased an orange. She peeled the skin for me and cut a small hole in the top. I began to squeeze the juice from it. We do things much different here. I must have worked on that orange for 30 minutes making sure not to waste any of it.

Hundreds of Africans drove and walked past watching this Yovo, (white man), make a mess of something so simple. Juice had poured down my chin and on to my shirt.

An older man in rags walked by asking for something in Eva, the local language. I smiled. He laughed since we could not communicate. It would have been great to have been able to find out his story. Everyone has one you know. Most stories are filled with pain, but lathered in Joy.

Every wild moto ride;
Every smell;
Every taste;
Every embrace;
Lets me know that I am still alive.

Africa has taken my heart and I pray that it will not give it back.

In great African Love,

Ken

Village Life

2008-01-05T04:12:00.000-08:00

This village was different than what we had seen in the past, beautiful palm and coconut trees lined the road we traveled. At times it seemed that the truck would topple over from the extreme terrain.

Women sold fish and vegetables from the side of the road. There was barely enough room to pass.
They live on less than 2.00 per day.

We were in awe of the conditions here, no electricity, no running water, the homes were modest at best. Most consisted of mud huts with thatch roofs.The streets were clean, and children played.

Around different areas there were wooded or stone idols. There is a great deal of Fetish worship that goes on in these villages. A tradition that has gone on for several thousand years.

The chief from the village came with his delegation to our service; from the picture you can tell he enjoyed himself. I preached about your faith will always make room for you. It came from the story of the 4 men who lowered the lame man down through a hole in the roof to get to Jesus; it is so true that God always makes room for our needs.

We were able to pray for these men. The chief came in contact with the King of Kings that day!

After the service Gin and I were invited to a pastors home for some refreshments. We enjoyed coconut milk together. After the milk was finished the coconut was opened and we ate the coconut meat from it. Awesome!

Gin and I, through the grace of God, have found where we are the most happiest; among our brothers and sisters in West Africa.

We appreciate your continued financial support. Without it we would not be here.

In Great African Love,
Ken and Gin

A few Pictures!

2007-12-13T02:17:00.000-08:00

I finally figured out how to put pictures on our BLOG. I know, I'm a little slow!!!! None the less, here are some pictures of events we have already blogged about.

Ken praying with Pastor Stephen before baptizing 7 people from the Village church of Bagbe. Ken was wearing borrowed pants of a 29 inch waisted African man. Hilarious!

Pastor Stephen and Pastor Severans children the day we had dinner in their home. Precious!

Sister Vigoreta, Pastor Stephan's wife, and I are in front of the Village church in Bagbe. She speaks English well, and is a new found friend.

Pastor Serveran praying for his Father that just recently gave his life to God.

2007-12-13T01:25:00.000-08:00

Hello to all,

I cant believe its Christmas time. I wake up every morning and thank the Lord I have been delivered from the hustle and bustle of retail during this time of year. But it sure is giving me a whole different perspective on what the holidays are all about. We try our best in the states to remember what is really about, the celebration of Christs birth; but living in the American culture, it truly can be a fight not to get caught up in all the gift purchasing. I can only speak for myself. I know I have been guilty.

This year is truly different, and I give God the Praise for allowing our family to experience this perspective of Christmas thru the eyes of the Togolese people. We were invited to the home of the Pastors family. Just getting to this families home was quite an endeavor. Kens journey on the moto itself made me cringe seeing the sea of motos that surrounded him. His body absorbed every bump in the road. We followed in the taxi behind.

The home was void of electric, just a one room cinder building. Basic Christmas decorations was not to be found anywhere; no tree, no gifts. Still the spirit of Christmas filled our fellowship. They went above and beyond to make us comfortable. A box of corn flakes and Fanta soda was served to us as the appetizer. (finger foods) The main course consisted of chicken and yams w/red sauce. All served under the big shaded tree in the middle of their yard.

Thelma, their youngest son of 4 years would sneak up as often as he could to steal sips of our drinks and then giggle and run, while their daughter Iouda stayed on my lap. She just wanted to be close.

They were giving beyond there means, in the spirit of sacrifice. The true spirit of Christmas was found that day.

Merry Christmas to all

Ken and Gin

What A Gift!

2007-11-29T00:21:00.000-08:00

Bounjour à toute mes amis et ma femille,

We miss you all very much. We are now beginning to experience some of the discomforts of Togo. The most inconvient is not having electricity. Even now I hold my breathe hoping that the power does not go out as I type this message, for one does not no when it will be turned off. It started about 3 weeks ago, being just 4 or 5 hours at a time. It is increasing daily the time it off. We are now up to 10 hours at a time. A few days ago, Carmen our landlord, bought us a small generator that will allow us to at least have a fan on alternating with the refrigerator. I thank God for this. I was really concerned about our gorceries going bad with it being out for so long at a time. Nobody but the government knows how long this will last. They say that last year it went on for almost six months. SO..... We shall see. But lets talk about some more positive things..LOL

This past Sunday, we had our first opportunity for Ken to preach at a village church. I dont even know how to express to you the how amazing the people. The worship that went forth would put us to shame. For people that dont have anything, have everything. As I followed the leading of Sis. Stephen in worship we single filed in line (the rest of the women following)out of the thached roof building and danced outside around the entire property. The worship went on for over an hour for the people would not stop praising God, and with such intensity. The custest of all is to watch the children dance and worship. Precious!

We are excited to report that 3 recieved the Holy Ghost and 7 wanted to be baptized, one being our taxi driver that we use on a regular bases. (He also recieved the H.G. that day) So off we go to our first adventure of going to the river. We hiked about a half a mile from the property of an elderly man that helped begin the work in this community. We found ourselves taking our shoes off to tregde through some swamp like area to get to the part of the pond that would be deep enough for the baptism. You should of seen Jonathons face when I told him to take off his shoes and to keep walking. HIlARIOUS! Of course Jen and I are all about it and so caught up in the Africa moment I wasnt thinking about anything Yucky. There was a concrete slab that we were able to climb up on once we arrived to get out of the water. It was then when I looked around and really checked out the situation, watching my husband in the water waiste deep I thought about snakes, and leaches. About that time, I saw aonther young african man reach down and pull off of his leg a leech and nonchalantly tossed it aside. What can you do! We were there and there was no turning back. Ken baptized all 7 and then we had to return. So in the water we went interceding all the way. All was good and no leeches attached. LOL

When we returned to the home of this villager, we were resting a bit on our little stools and being cordial to sit and look at each other. It was then I noticed two women chasing this one particular Rooster. It was the biggest one there. After they caught it and bound up the feet, they handed it to the man. He walked over to Ken, bowed and presented Ken this fine rooster as a gift. We were stund. They have nothing and yet give so much. So we gracously accepted the gift and gave it to our driver to put in the taxi to take home. And then in turn, when we got home, we blessed the pastor that had gone with us from Lome to take it home. Im just not ready to be plucking feathers out of a chicken yet.....LOL

The adventures go on and on and I wish each one of you could experience what God is so gracously allowing my family to be apart of. I must be getting off here for now. Just know that we concider ourselves very blessed to be a part of this work here in Togo and cant wait to get to Burkina.
God Bless to you all
Gin

The House of God is a Refuge

2007-10-30T08:42:00.000-07:00

Lomé, Togo West Africa by Ken

Sunday morning, Dimanche matin, we drove about 45 minutes to the church where we were to visit. Most of the roads had washed out due to the heavy rains. As we entered the area in Lomé where the church was the smell was very strong. The entire area held the stench of garbage; children played barefoot in it. My heart ached as we passed through.

How could anyone live in these conditions?

Right in the middle of this area stood the church. Four concrete walls about seven feet high. It was covered by a tin roof; and palm branches filled in the space between the top of the wall and the roof. No air could circulate so it must have been about 100 degrees.

The drums began to beat, Gods presence filled the entire room. The congregation worshipped like I had never experienced. When the alter call was made and they rushed to the front. They had such a hunger to touch the hem of our Lords garment, not because of the physical hunger; not because of the area that they lived in; not even for prosperity; They came to worship God just because He is worthy.

There is refuge in the house of God, there is safety from life in the house of God, there is healing in the house of God; but most of all there is GOD in the house of God!

We left that service changed. Changed in the presence of God along with the Body of Christ in West Africa. I feel privileged to be apart of such a grand body. The African Church is alive and well!

Please keep in touch.

In Great Christian African Love;

Ken and Gin

Afrique skies

2007-10-28T10:23:00.000-07:00

There is nothing like the African sunsets here. They are vibrant as they lay down over the coconut trees and palms. God really knew what He was doing.

The mornings are filled with the sound of roosters crowing from all over our neighborhood. In the states they crow in the morning, in Africa they crow all day. Jennifer said that roosters crow in America because they are hungry for breakfast, but in Africa they are always hungry. So they crow.

We have been very busy. Everyday brings a new adventure, along with new joy to carry us through. Walking down the streets it is almost as if we are in a parade. The people from Togo are warm; and quick to give up a smile.

Ginny received her oven this past week, she was so pleased. It made me glad to see her so excited to get to bake some peanutbutter cookies. There were 12 so we divided them up between the four of us. 3 each lasted 3 days. In the states I would have enhaled a dozen at one sitting.

Tomorrow I will go to the Bible School early. We will then go down to the market. It is a maze of everything you could imagine, and should not imagine.They tell us not to go to deep into it; but being Cantrells; I am confident we will either get lost; get ripped off; or simply make some new friends. French school is at 5:30 tomorrow night. Please pray that our brains will contain it. Jonathon and Jennifer pick it up quickly; Gin and I pick it up with great effort.

Gin received word that her father has cancer, we know that God knows all things and that He does all things well. Please pray for her father Pete. He will be in surgery this week:

Please keep in touch and pray for Togo/Burkina Faso daily;

In Great African Love;

Ken

The Element

2007-10-24T01:10:00.000-07:00

Lomè Togo West Afrique Oct. 2007 by Ken

Concrete walls and floor; a tin roof.
The blue sky is covered in grey.
A slight breeze presses through the door.

The Lord is here.

Missionary Adams teaches twelve students in the Bible School.
His words are predeturmined with purpose.
I do not understand the language, but catch the spirit of the message.

Students connect with the word.
Questions are asked, discussion is made.

Missionary Adams is in his element.
The element is filled with the Glory of God.
For in Him we live, and move and have our being.

I sit amazed, tears streaming while watching this labor of love.

The Lord is here.

Oh, Afrique cries out for an understanding of the word of God.

All is great!

2007-10-16T09:30:00.000-07:00

My heart is so full to try to put it into words what Africa is doing to Ken and I. Everyday that we wake up is a new adventure.

Early, we wake up for our devotion together on the veranda listening to the sounds of Africa waking up, before Ken leaves for bible school. He doesnt understand a word of what is said but loves to just be in the company of our up and coming pastors. While he is gone I busy myself getting the house straightened up, doing some laundry, and trying to think of what I qm going to fix for our evening dinner. This in itself can be an all day event.

We sometimes have to go to the market and then to the butcher store to buy meat. We sometimes can just drive up to buy bananas or eggs. Women are everywhere trying to sell there vegetables and fruit outside on the streets. There are groceriy stores here but nothing like price chopper. The groceries are very very expensive.

Ken is home by noon and we begin to prepare ourselves for our 2 hours of french lessons with Mr. Mike. I love this part of the day. The challenge is more than I ever thought it would be but God is giving me a love to study it. I praise Him for this.

We then take a walk or come here to internet cafe. This is our first day here. Our compiters at home are out of order. Our power source connector got bent so we cant chqrge up. And Jennifers screen went black. Oh well, What can a person do when your all the way in Lome Togo. LOL

It is then time to start to prepare dinner and get thqt all cleaned up and i am ready to relax and be in bed by 9. (just like at home, some things dont ever change even if you are across the world).

Ken is preaching his first service this Sunday. The Adams are going to Benin for the weekend so we will be on our own. We feel very at home here and there is a peace. We thank God for this. We feel the prayers of our friends.
God bless
Gin

The Lord is Good!

2007-10-04T15:48:00.000-07:00

We arrived safely in Lome, Togo Tuesday eve just as the sun went down. It was exciting to see the country that God has asked us to go to. The people are beautiful and welcomed us with grand smiles.

A lost piece of luggage showed up tonight. Praise the Lord! In it contained 2 cameras, a video recorder, Gin's contact lens' (for a year), and some of her clothing. This was our first miracle.

Our second miracle will be if French, we will start our lessons on Monday. Oui, Oui!

Our home is comfortable. We are in a very African neighborhood, but feel safe behind the walls, guard dogs, and a night watchman. This is a country of "locks". We have locks on cabinets, refrigerator, doors, windows, Locks, Locks, Every are Locks!

Cold showers wake us up every morning, or take our breath away every eve since we do not have hot water. (but is 95 degrees here you know) They say the heat will come next month... 100-115 degrees. So who needs hot water anyhow!

One nice little blessing, is the monkey that hangs out in the lawn. He swings around the banana tree. Yes, this real Africa.

We are excited to see what God has planned for us this next year. I am confident that He has gone before us to make a way for marvelous things!

In Great African Christian Love,

Gin and Ken

2007-09-05T16:46:00.000-07:00