Bature - Nigeria 2007 news

Here is a photo of the National Ecumenical Centre in Abuja which marks the end of our time here.

On the last Sunday I preached at Gwagwalada ECWA Good News (i.e. English language) church.  Gwagwalada is the temporary site of the University of Abuja.  I chose the little letter of 3 John with its emphasis on open hearted fellowship in the work of the Gospel.  It turned out to be a lot more relevant than I might have guessed.

Gwagwalada (say it how you like - I heard several pronunciations) has its own hot and steamy microclimate but the friendship was even warmer.  We parted with gifts and promises to pray for each other.

Below is a fun house seen in an eastern suburb.  It reputedly belongs to a retired pilot.

We are off to Andrew’s home village for a while so there will be no news for that time.  Then we go to Abuja but I do not know if I will get to an internet connection.

The Theological College of Northern Nigeria is an ecumenical college supported by around thirteen denominations which provides Bachelors and Masters degrees in theological subjects.

It is well respected and has a history going back around 50 years.  I was invited to give a series of three evening lectures (2 hrs each) and also preach on Sunday morning.  I spoke on Pastoral Ministry and preaching to around 100 students and the questions were relevant and challenging so it seems they were paying really close attention.  On Sunday I spoke on Psalm 46.

Over the weekend we also witnessed a believers’ baptism, a confirmation and an infant dedication (all done by the Chaplain).  I said it was ecumenical!

The grid effect on the photo is a result of photographing through the mosquito mesh of an upstairs window in the Library.  I thought it was cool enough to post.