Yes, another year has flown by.  I cannot believe it. I have celebrated my 9th year in Ghana and Mephibosheth Training Centre has celebrated its 5th year.  Here are some statistics:

Our staff includes a director, 6 teachers, a watchman, a cook, an assistant cook, 2 attendants and 2 maintenance personnel. We are still searching for another attendant or two for the dormitories to help the children with their activities of daily living (dressing, bathing, etc.).

We are very grateful for the volunteers who take time to be with us throughout the year; one from Germany and six from the US. In April, God blessed us with a couple whose skills were greatly needed. She painted our logos on our buildings and he fixed our laptops so that they all had the same programs on them. The German volunteer helped in the classroom and did after school activities with the children, including walking to town and buying supplies, conducting arts and craft sessions, and playing games. I think the children's favorite activity is water balloon fights. Luckily, the weather is always hot enough for the balloon fights.

This summer the World Cup Championship soccer games were popular in Ghana. Most Ghanaians were naturally rooting for their own country, while the two Americans at MTC were hoping for an American victory. Also this summer, Mephibosheth Ministry (Mary Jane Ponten, Annie Walters and Jeremiah Neill) held a Vacation Bible School. Our children learned about God loving them and that they have so much to be thankful for.

Every Sunday is church day when we make about 8 car trips to transport everyone. Not only do these services bring our students closer to God, they also help the children become accepted members of the community. Three of our children participated in the Easter play. One of our children came in second place when the church held its memory Bible verse quiz. At the church picnic the children participated in the game activities.

We thank all of you who have blessed us with your prayers and financial support. Without them we could not be where we are today. You have made a difference in many lives. You have taught the children that they are important people and that God loves them very much. They are learning how to take care of themselves.

Our prayer requests are for:
1. God's wisdom and direction.
2. Health for the children and staff.
3. Financial support.

During this Christmas season, remember what God has done for you and how He has blessed you with many things. By blessing us with a donation, you are honoring God by doing something for someone else and sharing His Love with our students.

Thank you from all of us at Mephibosheth Training Centre.

One of the girls who works with us is studying art at the university. She made us this beautiful carved wood sign that now hangs in front of the school.