Kastner Family Newsletter October 1, 2015
MISSION MALAWI
’Tis the Season
…to be jolly! People are happy
and joyful because the church
from various locations get to
meet together even more during
the season of gospel meetings.
Local congregations take
advantage of the period of time
between harvesting and planting
to host gospel meetings.
It is a refreshing time for us, as
missionaries. Up until this point in the year, we have coordinated most of the
events in which we have participated. Now, we get to support the
congregations through our attendance and preaching (when invited to do so)
as they evangelize and fellowship through tent meetings.
State of Affairs
MONEY – The Malawian kwacha (unit of money produced in bills) has taken a hit. Beginning in
August, the kwacha has devalued to the US dollar by amounts equating to approximately $.25 per
dollar. The inflation of prices is just around the corner if this trend continues as store owners will not
absorb such deficits in their profit margins for long.
ELECTRICITY – Escom, who has a monopoly on the electric supply, plans to take down two of their
turbins for maintenance. This will leave the entire country without power for 12 days in
January. Escom has been notified by the government that new electric providers will soon be
allowed to enter the market. Consequently, shortages (in excess of the norm 2-6 hours off each
day) will continue for 18 months as Escom prepares to have competition for the first time since
Malawi gained independence 51 years ago.
Thanks to a supporter… we are so blessed to now have a gas stove which will enable us to cook for
our family and next year’s Mobile Bible School teachers unhindered by the upcoming changes.
WATER – A similar situation is happening with the water supply. The water board has also issued its
plans for repairs that will leave Lilongwe without water for 72 hours or more beginning Monday,
Sept. 28th with other periods of shortages to follow. By moving in August to a house that has a
water well, God has safeguarded us against those significant challenges Lilongwe will be facing
soon.
Dale, Leann & Alyssa Kastner PO Box 595, Lilongwe, Malawi dnlkastner@hotmail.com
World Bible School
partnered with the
church in Santhe to
host a tent meeting.
Kastner Family Newsletter October 1, 2015
United in Marriage for a Lifetime
Dale was honored to officiate the wedding of Gerald and Bertha from
the Bunda church of Christ on September 5th. He had never officiated
a wedding before as cattle do things a little differently. As Alyssa had
a CVS attack the prior night, the rest of the family didn’t get to witness
this special day.
The culture here is such that the reception is the most important event
for guests to attend on the wedding day. Approximately, 80 people
witnessed the ceremony itself while 200 were present for the reception
and its festivities, food and fun.
United with Christ for Eternity
Dale, Leann & Alyssa Kastner PO Box 595, Lilongwe, Malawi dnlkastner@hotmail.com