Saturday, May 28, 2016


Because You Prayed and Gave


As we prepared to leave Mongu, we were overwhelmed as we reflected back on all that the Lord had done in just 12 months. We want our supporters to realize that we did this together. We thought it would be good if you heard some of the impact you made from the perspective of a Zambian Pastor and how he saw God working through our ministry so we asked our dear friend Pastor Lubinda Sikufele to share with you the impact YOU have made. The following is his letter to you.
To all the supporters of Paul and Velda Rikel – My names are Pastor Lubinda Sikufele working as a Regional Coordinator for Kids Alive Zambia as well as serving the people of God at Imwiko Church of Christ as well as overseeing some church outreach program in the far flung area of the Baroste plain. I also serve a vice- secretary for the Mongu Pastors Fellowship. Since the arrival of Paul and Velda in our town we have hit as good friends in spreading the good news of our Lord Jesus Christ here in Mongu of the Western province of Zambia. The revival that is sweeping the other part of Zambia’ main cities unfortunately has not yet reached the Western part of Zambia which is neglected as only less than 2% of the population are Evangelical Christians out of the population of over 1 million inhabitants. Geographical barriers and the general lack of development has hindered the spread of the gospel as many people are under the influence of cults, witch craft and superstition, HIV/AIDS and poverty is on the increase with a high number of girls getting pregnant thus falling away from school.
With the spiritual gloomy scenario it has pleased our father in heaven to impress upon the hearts of the Rikels a burden to leave the USA for Zambia to join hands with the locals in evangelization of our town and villages. Since the arrival of the Rikels we have seen a tremendous change and another shift in ministry and a few of the following has been accomplishments.
• Done every Thursday discipleship course to local believers where my wife also attends
• Preached in various churches where he has been invited apart from the Reformed Baptist e.g Church of Christ, Vineyard Mongu, Union Baptist, Evangelical Church in Zambia
• Preached at various government forums where officials assemble for various national duties
• Preached at various Interdenominational gatherings of New Vine and Mongu pastors’ fellowship- New Vine is a conglomerate of various church groups in our town
• We have done ministry together in the Villages – outskirts of Mongu
• Paul and Velda have supported financially, materially and opened their home to our orphans at Kids Alive Zambia and NOAH’s little home
• They have preached at various overnights which is very rare for many Missionaries I have known to attend as nights are inconveniencing
• Have helped many with their car for evangelism as well as many times an ambulance for sick brethren
• Paul has repeatedly preached at Zambian works an American funded Micro finance scheme to their workers on spiritual development
• Have been involved with Youths at Mongu Youth Centre where youths gather for activities
• They have been prayer partners to many of the saints here in our town.
• They have preached at various government Schools in our town
• Conduct Monday bible study for events committee of the MYC
• Host kids and other adults for meal fellowships at their home
Brothers and sisters I mention these things not to add butter or speak well of our new friends but its truth and real stuff from my heart endorsed by heaven. Paul and Velda are very dedicated pair who loves the natives and loves God very much as seen in their daily devotion and faith in Christ. In fact many pastors and even Christians have mentioned that the Couple are among the most lovely and well accepted pair in our community. I know they can’t do it alone without your financial and prayer cover. May God richly bless you abundantly.
Pastor Lubinda Sikufele


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