We left off last time, with my arrival in Canada, and a diagnosis of a thyroid condition. From March 2016 until now: It was decided that it would be best to wait for me to return to Malawi until the thyroid condition was stabilized, and that while I was in Canada, I would pursue additional mission training to better equip me for my future. I have been attending weekly trainings run by Liebenzell Mission for missionary candidates. Our trainers are a couple who were formerly missionaries in Malawi, so they have been a wonderful resource for me. This year was actually the perfect year to be in Canada for this, as the majority of my classmates are going to either Malawi or Zambia (neighbouring country of Malawi) and will be my nearest co-workers! I have also been able to take a few courses through other mission agencies as well. Most recently, a supporter communication and fundraising course with New Tribes Mission, and a course on how to learn culture and language quickly, the PLANTS course by MissionPrep. My thyroid condition is slowly getting closer to stabilization, but my numbers have fluctuated wildly over the past few months, which means that my energy levels and brain capacity often change from day-to-day. This has made it difficult to manage much more than basic survival and essential meetings, although that has recently been improving. Lots of things happened in our family over the last year. In June, my dad was in a car accident that totaled the car, but he walked away with very minor injuries. Thank the Lord! The same week, my youngest brother flew to Australia to attend a Youth With A Mission bible school , and my mum moved up north to Parry Sound to join my dad there. I have since been alternating living with my grandparents in Elmira, and occasionally staying with my parents in Parry Sound. Over Christmas, my middle brother got engaged, and the whole family is excitedly helping to plan and prepare for a wedding in front of the lake at my parents' new place. Our dog also had the cutest puppies and we had a blast caring for and playing with them until they went to their new homes! The mission director of Liebenzell Canada and I have been figuring out my next steps, and where I would fit best and use my skills best in the Liebenzell Mission Malawi team. My teachers education certificate has resumed as of January, and I am working away to complete it by the end of June.
I am beginning to resume fundraising as my health allows increased activity. My previous posting only required me to fund-raise half of my salary, as the American mission school paid the other half and provided all ministry supplies. My new posting will not have that benefit, and I am trusting that the Lord knows this and has a plan for my ministry and finances! I would appreciate prayers for continued guidance and improving health as the path ahead becomes clearer and a date for departure becomes more real.
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AuthorWelcome! My name is Katiana and I am a development professional pursuing my dream to live out Isaiah 1:17 to the best of my abilities. I am passionate about teaching and working with vulnerable families and children to improve their lives sustainably.
CaveatThis blog is composed of my personal opinions, which do not necessarily reflect the opinion or views of institutions or organizations that I may be or have been affiliated with.
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