It was in the early 1970's when Marian and I attended a meeting at Exeter University where Brother Andrew was speaking. He was looking for workers to go into China which was showing some signs of opening up and asked if those willing would stand. As I recall there did not seem to be much response among the many attending. He then broadened his appeal to include those who desired to serve the Lord anywhere. We had to stand up! By the early 1980's I knew God was impressing something on my heart. I had already been abroad several times to Africa and was seeing the vast opportunity and hungry hearts everywhere I went.

The opportunity came to visit Ameva Farm, Zimbabwe and do some preaching in the churches and teaching in the Bible School. One meeting we were waiting for some Christians to arrive from the neighbouring farms and as two trailers laden with the people singing their hearts out came along the road God confirmed that it was the place I was supposed to be. Getting there was another story!! It took about 18 months to get the necessary permission. We felt God had called us to Zimbabwe, so we sold up and went out 'trusting the Lord' and He has not failed us. We passed through seasons of plenty and of lack.

Bringing up one daughter in Africa and leaving the eldest to go through university and make her own way, was not viewed (especially by her) as the right thing to do! Our Zimbabwe years were some of the best of our lives and we would still be there but the government decreed otherwise. We still receive communications sometimes from ex students. Some months ago one telephoned me from Bulawayo I had not seen him for over 14 years 'do you remember me ? It's Reuben.' Sure I remember him his name is on my heart as yours and mine are on Jesus'! Malawi in 1994 became first a place of refuge and then in God's plan our home and new field of work.

I think many times of the letter received when in India in 1978 from a Malawian brother, saying 'Come and help us'! This year marks our 19th year in Africa and our 14th in Malawi. God's timing is always right. So what of the future? Although youth is not on our side we still feel at present that our ministry is in Malawi among the dear folk there in New Life Church and Rock Springs Baptist Mission. At present we are having a much needed, recuperative break to see what the Lord would have us do when we return....we would value your prayers.

Martin and Marian Williams