Over 100 friends and supporters of the Gaiya family assembled in Knock EPC on the
evening of 24 th June. The missionary rally drew in prayer partners from 7 EPC
congregations and from several other churches in Belfast. It was a wonderful night
together as the Lord refilled our hearts with love for this missionary family. After
singing “Jesus shall reign where’er the sun” Pamela and Musa led the meeting and
opened their hearts to us by outlining the challenges in Nigeria and how the Lord is at
work.
We learned of how God is protecting his people; Musa giving some details of God’s
providential care regarding the Palm Sunday attacks earlier this year. Security is an
ongoing challenge but they have seen God’s protection over and over again.
We heard of the need for sound biblical teaching in the local churches, and the need
for biblical discipleship for their young people. One local pastor, Henry, has recently
embarked on a “Bible, theology and coffee” group where they have begun a study
through RC Sproul’s helpful book “Everyone’s a Theologian” – 30-35 young people
attend.
The work of ACTS (Africa Christian TextbookS) continues to be a significant help in
assisting pastors to better feed their flocks with the good seed of the Word of God.
Pamela outlined some areas for prayer. The African Bible Commentary, now in its
second edition, continues to be a very real blessing to many pastors. ACTS have
made this to be both relevant and affordable, though in real terms it costs the average
Nigerian pastor one month’s salary.
Mission Africa continues to develop new policies and opportunities and we were
encouraged to consider going and seeking to be a blessing to our Nigerian brothers
and sisters. God continues to supply their ongoing financial needs.
Musa is now retiring from his work as professor in the University of Jos, but is
determined to remain useful in the Kingdom through writing books and teaching in
various Bible Schools in Africa. Earlier that same day he also spoke at “The Future of
Christian Doctrine Conference” at the Belfast School of Theology.
Pamela spoke warmly of her family in Nigeria and we learned of Gracie’s education in
Hillcrest School. Their theme for this coming year is taken from Hebrews 6:19 “We
have this hope as an anchor for the soul, firm and secure.” We pray on for Gracie’s
future, giving thanks for the Teens’ Fellowship at ECWA Plateau Church, and also
thankful for the opportunity for her to attend our own EPC Senior Camp this summer.
After an insightful Q&A, we finished with a time of prayer and the singing of “Yet not I,
but through Christ in me” The fellowship following the meeting was wonderful, with a
great supper together, we chatted long and enjoyed the communion of saints until it
was dark.
If you would like to further support the Gaiyas visit https://missionafrica.org.uk/people/

Robert Johnston