John & Leigh Pitterle, January 2001 Madagascar Update

Belated Merry CHRISTmas and we pray that you will have a JESUS-filled 2001.

During the past 12 months, we have often understood very little of what we have heard. First we took French 2 at Penn State. Then we were immersed in French for 5 weeks in northern Quebec. And since the beginning of September, we have been learning Malagasy here in Madagascar. Although it has been challenging at times, we are very thankful for these opportunities. Speaking the language is a vital part of sharing the love of Jesus.

We have seen many different things in this poor nation. For example, most of the churches we have attended have dirt floors and small, wooden benches (that may be smaller than a bench for children who play tee ball). Another interesting note is that the largest bill of Malagasy currency is 25,000 MGF (Malagasy Francs), which is worth about $4. We use lots of these notes since prices of many imported items are higher than they are in the US.

Our Malagasy studies have been challenging but are going well. We can have simple conversations with reasonable understanding (sometimes using Malagasy, French, and English). For us, one of the more difficult parts is hearing so many new words and trying to remember them. John’s class of five students, 4 hours per day, has completed most of the Malagasy grammar. Now they will probably practice more and place greater emphasis on vocabulary. Leigh’s class of two continues to learn practical conversation.

We had a 2-½ week break from class over the CHRISTmas holiday. We spent most of the time in the capital, “Tana.” Once again we had to deal with lots of traffic (mostly cars but also people, animals, carts, etc. along the roadside). It is rather challenging to drive with people regularly within inches of your vehicle (since there are often no sidewalks). Our pickup truck also had some work done on it. We were going to fix the 4-wheel drive and recharge the air conditioner, but we found out that both have major problems. (Note: 2-wheel drive works fine.) We also have a cell phone now [(261) 032 02 56393]. Currently it is mostly for emergency use, but we expect to use it when we return to Tana (at least initially but perhaps we will be able to get a phone installed without having to wait several years).

We left the central plateau for several days when we visited the east coast for a retreat. A pastor from Wyoming came and encouraged us. His primary emphasis was about the importance of knowing one’s spiritual gifts and using them effectively. The weather on the coast was warmer and more humid. There we saw many trees; this had been uncommon for us thus far in this land where the deforestation may be about 80%.

John just attended a seminar about Malagasy culture. This was very informative. While us westerners are usually very task-oriented, many people in other nations are relationship-oriented. One interesting part of the seminar was several case studies where a westerner and a Malagasy viewed a given situation in almost opposite ways. Thus, understanding the culture is very important for missionaries.

Previously we shared how we expected to start distributing the Book of Hope early this year. However this has changed because the costs to print the books here are too high. Instead the books will be printed in India and shipped here (which will require more time). Much prayer may be needed for each container of books to get out of the port here and through customs without weeks of delay.

We have seen the Book of Hope in Malagasy. To us, it is a beautiful sight! The Word of God in Malagasy for the precious children (and families) of this wonderful nation!!! With additional time now, further review and revisions may be made. We welcome the extra time we will have to help us better prepare.

Because the school year ends in June shortly after the Books of Hope are expected to arrive, it would not be a good time to start. Thus, October is the new starting date. Also, due to some unforeseen circumstances, it looks like we will have greater responsibilities than initially planned. Your prayer is greatly needed. In order to reach all the children in all the schools, we believe Jesus is going to have to intervene. Thus the new starting date will enable more time for spiritual warfare which is vitally necessary.

With this change of timing, we now expect to study Malagasy in Antsirabe until the latter part of March. After that, the current plan is for John to help teach a course, possibly on one of the Gospels, at the Assemblies of God Bible School. He will have a translator. Leigh will also be teaching as she continues the very important task of home-schooling Stephen. Stephen is doing well and had an especially enjoyable CHRISTmas holiday, as he was able to spend more time with our supervisor’s son who is just a little bit younger than he is.

We convey our heartfelt thanks to all that have prayed for the people of Madagascar and for us as well as to everyone who has contributed financially. This is a team effort because we certainly can not do this alone. Thank you for partnering with us to reach the people of Madagascar with the awesome news of Jesus in order to eternally change the spiritual climate of this nation. This is why we are here and we are very thankful for this opportunity. Let us know if you have any prayer requests and please continue to stand in the gap for the beautiful people of Madagascar.

John, Leigh, & Stephen Pitterle