Transition
We are learning to be flexible. While we, as a couple, like to have things planned out and scheduled, we know that this is something we need to work on as we move and live in another culture. There are always changes and things can be unpredictable, but God is in control. We have learned that Keir and Joanna Thelander, one of the couples on the team in Bongolo will be transitioning back to the States. Keir will begin his new job as the Chief Medical Officer of the Pan-African Academy of Christian Surgeons (PAACS​) this summer. So instead of being the Program Director of Bongolo Hospital in Gabon, he will now oversee all of PAACS while residing in the United States. While this is a great job for him and it is what God is calling them to do, it leaves a hole in the team at Bongolo. It also leaves a hole for us, as we have become good friends with the Thelanders, and had anticipated serving alongside them when we got to Bongolo. We know God has great things in store for their family as well as for the team at Bongolo. Please join us in prayer for this time of transition for the team, as well as for the Thelanders and their transition back to the United States after 10 years overseas. We are excited to get over to Bongolo and join the team and help out, but know we have some preparation to do before we arrive.

Did you know?
Last month we shared some information about Albertville, France where we will be for our language study. This month we have been learning about Gabon and thought we would share some of what we have learned.

Did you know...

1. Gabon is slightly smaller in area than the state of Colorado?

2. The population of Gabon is around 1.5 million people?

3. Gabon lies on the equator and is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon and the Congo?

4. More than 10% of Gabon’s total area is protected parkland?

5. The capital city of Gabon is Libreville?

6. The money used is the Central African Franc (CFA)? Currently $1.00 = 595 CFA. The CFA is the currency of 6 independent states in Central Africa: Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon.

7. The time in Gabon is 6 hours ahead of Ohio (the same as France)?

8. Gabon has a tropical climate and temperatures remain constant throughout the year, averaging between 84-88 degrees fahrenheit?