Three Decades in Africa

by William and Jimmye Whitfield

Bill and Jimmye Whitfield (left) are back in the United States briefly, having completed their last term in Zimbabwe and before embarking on a new term in Sierra Leone. The Whitfields have also served as missionaries in Nigeria and Liberia.

They write about their experiences in Africa including a Christmas visit to the Serengeti Game Reserve, and another one to Mt. Kilimanjaro. They also write about the Christian faith, as shared in a different culture, proclaiming Christmas as a time to learn "that it is truly more blessed to give--with an open heart and with love--than it is to receive."

by Beth and Emily Gipe

Douglas and Elizabeth Gipe traveled to Zaire as United Methodist missionaries with their children. Their family had to be evacuated from Lubumbashi as Zaire became the Democratic Republic of Congo. Emily, their oldest daughter, and Beth describe the family's Christmas in Lubumbashi. The Gipes continue in mission as Missionaries in Residence at the General Board of Global Ministries while awaiting their next assignment.

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Photo by Christie R. House. Unless otherwise noted, all photographs are copyright © The General Board of Global Ministries, The United Methodist Church and courtesy, New World Outlook magazine.