Lausanne III Has Begun!

This afternoon the sessions began with a reported 4200 delegates and another 1100 stewards and observers from 198 countries. We began in our table groups of six people. One of the major goals of the conference is to be interactive, so we will spend extended time in our small groups. Mine is comprised of our leader who is the head of the Evangelical Association of the Philippines, a retired Korean Marine general who heads a ministry to Korean military personnel, an older gentleman from the UK who heads a movement of “warehouse churches” which has expanded around the world, a businessman from Germany who wants to expand his impact in the marketplace, and me. (Our 6th person wasn’t there.) It should make for some interesting dialog!

The evening was the official launch of the Congress with a wonderful welcome from South Africans complete with an interesting blend of musical styles, national dress, and dance.

Earlier today I spent some time with a missionary couple working with Muslims in the city. What a tremendous heart they have to reach the growing population of Muslims who immigrate to Cape Town from all over the world as well as South Africans that are being converted (often for monetary reasons such as the fact that traditional funerals can almost bankrupt a family, but Muslims practice very simple, inexpensive burials).

Thanks for your prayers. I have battled some health issues since I arrived, so please pray that I can feel really well for tomorrow’s sessions.