In some ways, August has felt like the longest month for us, and in other ways, it’s hard to believe that we have been in Liberia for one month already.  We are enjoying living here, even though we do without some comforts like running hot water. It pales in comparison to how others here live, and we are so grateful for every comfort we do have. We, (rather, Bill) hit the ground running. Or should I say, crashing. There was a huge mango tree that had rotted and being eaten by ants that needed to come down. A large limb had already come down due to a stiff wind, and being so close to the school, it was in danger of crashing onto the school. Bill, with the assistance of Emmanuel (property maintenance lead), arranged for a tree-remover to come and cut it down.    It was lined up properly but at the last minute, during the cutting, it twisted and came down on the school roof anyway.   So, Bill learned very quickly how things are done in Po River, Liberia. Working closely with Emmanuel and the four men who serve as maintenance and carpenters on the property has been a real joy.

Wood to repair the roof had to be located and ripped into the pieces we needed to repair the damage. Zinc (Metal roofing) and various nails needed to be purchased and delivered from over 60 miles away, (there is no Home Depot here). Yes, that is twenty sheets of roofing metal being delivered by motorcycle. Did we mention it is rainy season? Water filled the room before we were able to complete the job. Bill jokingly told the principal, Rev. Johnson, that the school now had a swimming pool. The repair was made within 2 weeks and the room is ready in time for school. Sometimes destruction brings blessings. We were able to use some of the damaged zinc for repairing the window shades on the school building (a needed project). The downed tree will be used for making charcoal (most people still cook using charcoal) giving opportunity for employment to a few people. God provides in unexpected ways.  We are so thankful that no one was hurt, and especially that school was not yet in session.  We have also been getting to know the people here. Several communities in the area send their kids to the school and utilize the clinic, as well as attend church. Once school starts next week, we’ll be getting to know even more families from this area. Parents and caregivers are busy preparing to send their kids back to school next week, just like many of you have done these past several weeks. We look forward to reporting on the school year as it progresses. Attention Homeschool families and teachers! Just like the Po River Community, we know you are passionate about quality Christian education. Would you pray about sponsoring a child? Your $55/month provides fees (tuition, registration, & fees for testing), supplies (notebooks & ink pens/pencils), two school uniforms (socks & shoes, raincoat, umbrella, backpack), a PE uniform, and a meal. There are at least ten orphans waiting for a sponsor, and you would be an answer to prayer! Press the link below to register your sponsorship today. (When registering to give, use the drop-down menu to choose Oceanview Christian School - Po River)  Sponsor a Child "But this I call to mind, and therefore I have hope: The steadfast love of the LORD never ceases; His mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is Your faithfulness."                                                                            Lamentations 3:21-23  A Call to Praise  His faithfulness in protection, safety, and care while we traveled to Monrovia and back last week (it took 11 hours!). His faithfulness in sustaining our families through a significant season of transition. His faithfulness in providing 87% of the monthly support goal. His faithfulness in using the weak and foolish things to bring Himself glory. His faithfulness in keeping us healthy.  A Call to Prayer For the gospel to be seen in our words and actions. For all the needed school sponsorships to be filled. For the church here in Po River. For protection, safety, and care while working. For our monthly support goal, as well the people and programs here at Pillar of Fire Missions. For a humble attitude while learning the culture and meeting people.

With gratitude and in His strength,                                                          Bill & Debby

Click HERE for different ways to partner together. Reach Debby Reach Bill Copyright © 2026 Bill and Debby Abitz, All rights reserved. At some point in our lifetime, you told us that you would like to follow our ministry. You told us that you would pray for us as we "GO ye......" and that you would rejoice with us as GOD moves in ways that will leave us all, in amazement at HIS greatness. Thank you for being part of our team!