Monday 23rd

Since the last communication, the murals are coming on a treat! Nelson arrived back from Lilongwe yesterday and was really impressed with how the centre has already been transformed. He is hoping to get the press in tomorrow and is even threatening to contact the National TV! Victoria and Katie have done a great job and Ron's gift in painting petals has blossomed beyond all belief - much to the concern of Nathan his room mate. While some paint, others have been doing activities with the kids at the centre - Gillian's craft workshops have gone down a storm! We had time off yesterday afternoon and took a walk around town, it was great to spot one of the kids proudly sporting his bag that he'd designed and painted with us the day before!
Living Waters Church was a great experience yesterday. The praise and worship was lively and inspirational until a bunch of tone deaf Scots with no sense of rhythm took to the platform. At least Nath and Ron's kilts provided some distraction for the congregation! We have been made to feel very welcome by all we meet. Later in the day, most of the team visited St Michael's and All Angels Presbyterian Cathedral. It was poignant to read the memorial plaques to the various Scottish missionaries who have served the people of Malawi over the last 150 years. Gordi and Ian returned for the sunset service at the Cathedral. They chatted with the Malawian Minister before the service and after the final hymn he invited the 'Rev Ian' to come and give the benediction! All in one day, Ian had been publicly identified as 'Pastor' and 'Reverend' - watch your back Al!
This morning we joined with the Chisomo staff at Blantyre for morning devotions. After some lively worship and prayer, brother Nath gave a powerful word in true Malawian style. Jean and Katie are presently visiting a local Primary school while the team continue with the painting and mural work. Children will be arriving this afternoon to take part in some structured activities including sports, crafts and mural work. We hope to introduce the Blantyre children to some parachute games - a big thanks to Glebe Primary, Irvine, and Littlemill Primary, Rankinston who donated the parachutes (among other things). Lainshaw Primary in Stewarton also contributed various games and teaching materials. Our own Explorers provided personal health starter packs which the staff at Lilongwe were delighted to receive. Aileen starts her eye clinic this afternoon for the children and staff at Blantyre. Tomorrow and Wednesday she'll be at Namatapa School in Limbe. We will pass on the card from the children at Newton Primary in Ayr to the children of Namatapa. The children of Newton and Lainshaw did a brilliant job collecting specs which Aileen will be able to allocate to the kids.

Everyone continues to keep well, weather has been bright but not too warm and we are enjoying the tastes and experience of Malawian food (boa bo, sugar cane juice, seema and burgers).

Photo's to appear tomorrow hopefully! This is Malawi signing off....