News 2007 - May(Richard)

Dear All

It has been a while since I sent out news from Sierra Leone. I had hoped to have more regular news and photos but the truth is these guys are living in very demanding circumstances and it seems that they are being tested all the time.

Yesterday I received an email from Yatta requesting prayer support. Juliana (who helps with the womens' ministries) was involved in a bad road accident in which eight people died. Fortunately Juliana was not one of those who died but she has a broken foot and is now recovering in the emergency hospital run by the Italians following an operation.

The news of late Pastor Sahr (an assistant of Eric's) is devastating. A few days ago he was helping with soccer training in the fields when a storm arose and a thunderbolt hit the field. Every one of the 22 players fell to the ground, sadly Pastor Sahr died. I learned that his wife and one child survive him. We will arrange to send out some funds to Pastor Sarh's family.

Please also see below a chilling email sent in March, which refers to child sacrifice as part of the build up to the elections. I know some of you have seen it already but on reflection I decided it was not my role to act as a "filter" of bad news as I am sure you would all want to know what is really happening.

Yatta says the mood is downbeat and he would welcome our prayers. I believe that to be an understatement.

Yours

Richard Bayfield