International Partners in Christian Ministry

Please note that all of our previous posts date to times before the Covid pandemic.

Prior to our planned return visit to Ethiopia in May of 2020, our posts pertained to physical visits to a number of countries in the Caribbean, and the continents of Asia and Africa. And it should be noted that our last visit abroad was to Ethiopia in 2019, which was never posted. (It was an eventful journey but was never entered due to a variety of factors.)

There are currently no Posts dated to the pandemic or afterward. This is not because there was no work done, but to the complete contrary, we are unable to keep up with posting all that God is doing. During and following the Covid-19 pandemic, we are far busier with doing the work of the kingdom. Prior to that time, we were able to do a single crusade onsite, along with a leadership conference and some individual church ministries. But post Covid times have witnessed an explosion of events:

Multiple radio broadcasts in numerous countries across Africa

A single TV broadcast that covers the entire nation of Zambia

Multiple live Zoom events with pastor-leadership conferences

Many community-wide crusades in various countries using Zoom and projectors

And of course, there are many other opportunities as well. Perhaps the greatest positive is that we are now holding meetings in countries where before the pandemic, were not available to us. At this time, we are actively involved in ministry on 3 continents and our list of potential partners is growing exponentially. Leave it to our God to turn disaster into glorious opportunity! For IPICM–and those seeking our ministry–the Covid-19 outbreak has turned into a blessing for many, in a very unexpected way.

He continues his glorious work at an ever-increasing pace. . . .

As always, the mission venture to Africa was nothing less than a success. Salvations and healings were numerous, and perhaps for the 1^st time, a significant number of ministers expanded their understanding of Christian theology and biblical interpretation.

Although no one truly knows the hearts of men and women who profess to receive Jesus into their hearts and lives—only God knows with certainty—many professions of faith were made over the 2 week period. As best as the team could tally, over 200 salvations were declared and more than 100 healings were experienced.

Before concluding, there is something else that warrants mention. Christians are always well-served when they depend on God as their plans begin to unravel. Two weeks before the team’s scheduled departure for Africa, Michael was contacted by Regional Director Stephen Kaindu, who informed him the leadership conference scheduled to be held in the Democratic Republic of Congo had been abruptly cancelled. The pastors had waited till the last moment to inform Stephen that they expected to be paid to attend the conference; an amount that could have easily exceeded $2,000 USD. Stephen knew he had no other option but to cancel, which was the appropriate action to take. To his great credit, the schedule’s gap was almost immediately filled in with what worked out to be a most suitable revised itinerary. More was accomplished than would have been done in the Congo. Well done Stephen! God’s work will not be thwarted.

If there’s a single truism that best summarizes a mission trip to Africa, it is likely “Expect the unexpected.” Never fear when things appear to go awry. In all likelihood, God is at work to get you on track with Him. If you’re going in His name, then you are doing His work in the manner He desires it to be done—a good thing to remember abroad and at home.

6/3-6/10

Sunday marked the beginning of the 2^nd week and due to the demand for preachers, the team of 3 divided to maximize the group’s ministry opportunities. The 3 men went in different directions to different churches; their host Stephen Kaindu, IPICM’s regional director, attended the church he pastors in Chingola.

Peter ministered at Redemption Shalom Church; the church the team ministered to the previous week. There were about 40 church members present. No healings were noted but there were about 15 who responded to accept salvation.

Harrison attended a new church; one that no one knew anything about. This is not normally a good idea for a variety of reasons. Actually, the church’s leader requested Peter initially but because Peter is still relatively new to mission work in Africa, our host and our team believed Harrison would be a better choice. As it turned out, we were correct.

Several things seemed out of the ordinary to Harrison such as whistle blowing during the music and even the unusual attire some were wearing. But the thing that bothered him most was when the pastor asked him to promise to give financially to the church, and that if he promised but failed to do so, a curse would come upon him and the pastor’s congregation. Harrison was completely unsettled. However, regardless of his experience and concerns, 12 individuals from the attendance of 70 prayed to receive Jesus.

Michael attended a different branch of Redemption Shalom Church. With a congregation of 64 in attendance, Michael preached a sermon based on the Kingdom of God message. At the conclusion of his sermon, 17 responded to the invitation. To witness so many regularly committing their souls to Christ after years of serving in a local church never ceases to amaze the missionaries. How little so many people seem to understand of the basics of the Christian faith.

Following the invitation, the Spirit fell upon the congregation. When asked if anyone needed healing, 12 persons responded by lining across the front of the church. Six individuals received prayer, with everyone demonstrating their healing (except possibly one individual sporting a cold). Most notably was the older man with crippled knees and terrible eyesight. Surprising everyone, he immediately danced a rather wild dance and then declared, “I can see the people in the back of the church!” Running short of time, a verbal healing command was addressed to the last 6 people in need—all of which immediately demonstrated their having received healing.

That evening, a family of 4 came to the guesthouse where the team was staying, seeking prayer. Harrison and Michael met the family. Although the intent was to pray for whatever needs might be expressed, the Spirit had something slightly different in mind. As prayer began, suddenly a barrage of personal information was revealed to the missionaries in a manner that insured the couple that God was in charge of their family problems—none of which Michael or Harrison were aware of. The couple validated the revelations and thanked the missionaries for their prayers, then departed. Thinking they were finished, a young man approached the men with his own needs. The same thing happened again. Matters revealed by the Spirit were very different from the previous couple but equally validated by the young man. The Lord certainly works after hours.

On Monday, the team travelled back to Ndola to begin the 2^nd week of ministry. Along the way, a loose rock from a passing truck travelling the opposite direction cracked our driver’s windshield. Turning around, he caught up with the truck to discuss the situation. After a few minutes, we got back under way without the slightest hint of road rage. A short time later, the vehicle was pulled over at a police check. Because the front seat passenger was a white man, it seemed there was an opportunity to squeeze the riders for a bribe. When no one produced any money, the car was released to continue its journey. Similar stops have occurred over the years.

Peter and Harrison ministered Tuesday morning at Bethel Mission Church. Harrison preached and a few sick people healed. That evening, the church showed the Jesus Film outdoors for people living in the area. Presented in the Bimba language, approximately 50-60 people responded to the evangelistic message given by Peter, including a Muslim and a 90-year-old man. Fourteen received counselling.

Wednesday morning was the 1^st day of a 2-day pastor-leadership conference for Ndola ministers. Michael again taught on the Kingdom of God with 40-50 ministers and congregants present. At the conclusion of the meeting, several individuals received healing including a man with cataracts and bad knees (the 90 year old man from the night before), and 2 ladies with multiple afflictions. Later, Harrison and Peter continued the day’s ministry to approximately 120 persons, with 45 professing their need for Jesus Christ. Numerous eyes, ears, and various pains were healed.

The 2^nd leg of the training seminar continued Thursday morning with a hermeneutics study. That evening, Peter and Harrison held a service with approximately 120 in attendance. At the conclusion, 45 prayed to receive Jesus, followed by a healing session in which eyes, backs, stomach and heart pains, knees, and more were healed.

Friday morning marked the final day of ministry with Harrison and Peter continuing the church service where they had ministered the previous day. Michael ministered the Kingdom of God training to a citywide gathering of 40-50 pastors. Following the pastor meeting, Michael and his host returned to rejoin Harrison and Peter at the church. Harrison brought the message and Peter led the healing service. Approximately 45 people were present with 1 receiving Christ. Michael joined the healing service and then moved to prophetic ministry.

On Saturday, the team departed Ndola for home, arriving Sunday afternoon and evening.

The most recent mission trip to Zambia marked IPICM’s 26^th year of overseas work, having previously ministered 19 seasons in the Caribbean, a onetime visit to Nepal, and across much of south-central and East Africa over the past 7 years. The May-June venture differed little from previous journeys, with God continuing to advance his work in the copper region of northwestern Zambia. He is always faithful to blaze the path he chooses and in this respect, even potential hurdles worked for the good of all.

The IPICM team consisted of 3 veteran missionaries: Dr. Michael Lanier, Harrison Hunter, and Peter Valenzuela. Michael and Harrison have worked together since they first teamed-up in Jamaica in 2007. Peter began his partnership 3 years ago.

Travel to Africa is never a breeze and usually requires 38-40 hours of travel time. For example, Michael flew from Dallas-Fort Worth to Toronto, Canada, where he slept overnight in a corner of the airport. Departing the next morning, he flew to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, then to Lubumbashi, D R Congo, and from there to Ndola, Zambia. His return flight took him from Zambia, to Malawi, then to Ethiopia, Ireland, Canada, and finally home to Texas, USA. Harrison and Peter’s itinerary was equally harrowing.

5/26—6/2

The men departed from Arizona and Texas on a Saturday and arrived at their African destination the following Monday. Tuesday was a much-needed day of rest. On the next day (Wednesday), with all their baggage in tow—something that is never assured—they departed Ndola for Chingola. That evening marked their first night of ministry.

Peter ministered first to a gathering of 40 plus individuals at the Redemption Shalom Church, in the Lulamba Redemption Center. Following the message, he called for those in need of healing to form a line where he and Harrison prayed for healing for approximately 25 people—all of which declared their prayers had been answered. At the start of the healing ministry, the Spirit revealed two specific needs to be addressed; one was a deaf ear and the other a shortened leg. Both individuals came forward to have hands laid on them and both received their healing. Other healings included a swollen knee that immediately lost its swelling as the person ran around the room; eyes were healed from assorted afflictions; and miscellaneous pains were relieved.

God certainly doesn’t work his wonders only in church. Earlier that same day, as the team travelled to their place of rest following a run to the grocery store, the cab driver abruptly queried, “Why do difficulties come?” An explanation from the Book of Job was given and then upon their arrival at their quarters, Michael took the driver aside for further ministry as the Spirit revealed a number of personal struggles Eddie (the driver) was experiencing. Details—included various pressures he was experiencing with his family, job, and from certain friends, along with some immanent decisions and haunting thoughts, and even a detailed description of how God had rescued him from a danger in order to show his love—were spoken over the man. In brief, many things that only God could reveal were brought to light; all of which were verified by Eddie when asked if the ministering words were accurate. As a result of the Spirit’s ministry, Eddied gave his life to Jesus Christ. Whoever said God no longer speaks has never experienced such a revealing encounter; the kind that results in the salvation of the lost.

Thursday marked the first of 2 pastoral-leadership conferences. Michael taught in the morning and afternoon sessions on the Kingdom of God, to a gathering of 89 individuals. The 40 booklets he was asked to bring fell way short of the actual number of participants. The first day of the 2-day conference was striking in at least two ways. First, no one had ever heard of, or imagined, the meaning of the kingdom. (Most African pastors are very limited in their training and understanding of biblical matters in general, as their comprehension is largely based on cultural influences.) Even more striking was the response to the invitation to receive Christ, which resulted in 21 salvations! The assembly was comprised of pastors, evangelists, and church leaders. How important it is to present the Gospel message; even when there is not expected to be a need. The afternoon meeting ended with a much needed and lively Q & A session.

Friday morning concluded the 1^st conference with a discussion on hermeneutics. Michael taught on the concept of Interrogative Hermeneutics; a method of interpretation that requires few printed or computerized tools; a method that sprang from his doctoral dissertation. Group reception exceeded all expectation.

That afternoon, Harrison and Peter ministered to an assembly of approximately 120 church members. Peter preached on healing as part of the kingdom and when finished, called for those in need to form a healing line. Everyone in need of a healing had his or her needs met. Healings included a man with a short leg was able to run around the room; a woman with severe cataracts was healed; a man who’d been deaf in his left ear for 15 years had his hearing restored, claiming “I’m so surprised”; and a multitude of aches and pains dissipated.

On Saturday, there were two general meetings for all church members. Harrison brought the message to about 120 congregants. There were 8 salvations and approximately 40 persons were healed of assorted afflictions. That afternoon, Peter preached to the same 120 and offered several prophetic utterances. Michael stayed in his guesthouse room for some much-needed rest. (Michael gets an African cold on average every other year, simply because the team always visits during African winters and cold seasons. Normally, Michael’s colds endure for about 5 weeks but this time was different. On the 2^nd day of sneezing, coughing, and night sweats, he called Brandon, his oldest son, back in the States, who prayed for him. Two days later the cold and fever were gone. Amazing!)

The first week was a good one. The 2^nd was yet to come.

I (Dr. Michael Lanier) would like to leave you with a few final thoughts regarding IPICM’s most recent mission trip to Zambia, Africa.

Every mission journey is an adventure of its own. (This venture marked my 25^th year—a quarter century of service in far-away corners of the world and I can confidently say that every quest is different.) Some will undoubtedly wonder if the challenges were a bit too costly for most people, but as the one that was knocked to the ground by an automobile, and one of several who patiently waited by the desolate roadside while a plan was devised to overcome the challenge of the blown out tire, I think the potential cost (in terms of experience) should never be feared. God provided us with numerous experiences we could never have otherwise encountered—and learned from. Our team was privileged to witness firsthand the wonderful works in which we were invited to share. These are the very memories we’ll forever remember, even with fond recollections after we reach that which lies beyond the boundaries of this life.

No one can ever truly know how many souls responded to a salvation message or even the number of bodies that received God’s miraculous healings. However, to summarize the 2 weeks of ministry, it appears that somewhere in the area of 278 individuals acknowledged their need to make Jesus Christ their Savior. Unfortunately, there is no way to know how many persons may have been divinely touched over the 3 nights of radio broadcasts, but God knows and that’s all that matters. In addition to the salvations, an estimated 625 received healing. Please keep in mind, whenever our team intercedes for the sick, immediately afterward, we tell each recipient “Now, do what you couldn’t do before.” We do this because we don’t want just to hear what God has done–but instead, we want to see the proof. As a result, healings are almost always clearly demonstrated!

While numbers can never be certain, I personally am left with the knowledge that many wonderful things–especially salvations and healings–took place during our time of serving the people of Zambia. Many were restored to a right relationship with God through the acceptance of Jesus Christ, and many more were physically healed.

I pray that everyone who desires, can someday experience events similar to those I’ve tried to describe through the many IPICM posts over the years. You can never truly know the blessings and wonders of a mission trip apart from experiencing an actual encounter. If you ever have an opportunity to go, do what Jesus always did: proclaim the Kingdom of God (remembering that Jesus is the King of that Kingdom) and heal the sick.

Thank you for your prayers. They are the fuel that drives our engine!

Dr. Michael Lanier, Executive Director

6/4—6/11

Pentecost Sunday morning marked the third and final day of the conference. Michael P. and Peter shared the preaching ministry with Dr. Michael moving in prophetic ministry afterward. During the open ministry time, 3 men were called forth to receive prophetic words. (Later referred to as the “triplets,” the 3 ministers that came forth had been sharing identical experiences in their lives—unknown to one another—including similar personal struggles and parallel congregational challenges. (The revealing words spoken to them were done so discretely and without a microphone.) Next, a call went forth for younger people to answer their own calls to ministry, to which 36 young adults responded. The morning service concluded with 2 more souls added to God’s Kingdom.

The afternoon was given to a Q and A session, with Harrison, Peter, Michael P., and Wendell comprising the panel. (We find that Q and A sessions are important because they allow everyone an opportunity to discuss some of the most important issues they may face and to shed light on passages of Scripture that often go unaddressed for years–if ever.)

The closing evening session witnessed the most beautiful event of the trip. The service began with Harrison preaching to a collection of about 150 individuals. During the service, the youth put on a skit to which Michael P. joined in, with the crowd joyfully expressing their pleasure with Michael’s performance. When all was done, another 10 prayed to become followers of Christ. But it was what followed that no one will ever forget.

With the meeting ready to close, Dr. Michael took the microphone. After requesting prayer for the upcoming Soweto crusade, Michael then declared, “We’re exhausted. We’ve given all we have. Now, we need your ministry to us.” After a moment of silence, a young lady in the middle of the assembly rose to her feet and began to sing the African hymn, We Need Your Power, followed by What a Friend We have in Jesus. The entire place sang in beautiful 4 part a Capella harmony with leaders and congregants surrounding the team; laying hands on all and offering beautiful heart-felt prayers. A pastor then read 2 Thess. 3:1-4 over the team Everyone in the place then lined up to shake the hands of the team’s members. Some wiped our feet with their clothing while others rolled on the floor—each act a demonstration of utter respect for those who’d came from so far away to share love and life in such a far-away place. Finally, everyone in great jubilation—including the mission team—broke into dance and celebration. What an awesome experience!

The next day (Monday), the team made its way back to Chingola—in the same over-crowded vehicle bopping down the same dusty, pothole-riddled, road. The only difference was the chicken–a new addition to the already crowded vehicle. But the additional rider wasn’t really a problem. In fact, its presence was very much appreciated the next day—at dinnertime.

Tuesday was a much-needed day of rest except for a meeting with 11 pastors. While the meeting was nothing out of the ordinary, a single event warrants mention simply to show the wonders of our God’s love. During the meeting, Dr. Michael mostly discussed the role of IPICM and the way it seeks to augment indigenous ministries. But there was 1 individual present that seemed to stand out to Michael; not because of anything he’d said or done. At the conclusion of the meeting, Dr. Michael approached and prayed for the man, sharing thoughts that could have only be prompted by the Spirit. As it turned out, the man had contacted Dr. Michael earlier in the year seeking a one-on-one meeting. Dr. Michael didn’t know the man, or that he was the one that emailed him seeking a meeting, and yet it seems the matters prayed over the man were matters that were ongoing in the minister’s life. In short, when the IPICM team returns in 2018, 2 services will be held in that pastor’s church.

Wednesday night marked the first of 3 nights of crusade meetings in the township of Soweto. Dr. Michael spoke to a gathering of about 260 persons, of which 82 prayed to receive Jesus Christ; another 24 received healing. Radio station KOKOLIKO, FM 94.9, the largest secular radio station in the “copper belt” region, broadcasted live the night’s meeting.

The next morning (Thursday), Dr. Michael led a pastor-leadership conference of 51 ministers in the very building that had been rented to house the new church that was launched in coordination with IPICM’s Soweto crusade.

That night, Michael P. brought the evangelistic message to a crowd of 450-500 in attendance. Approximately 225 received healing with 77 professing salvation. While the crusade was in progress, Dr. Michael delivered a live message from the KOKOLIKO radio station—a broadcast expected to reach a large swath of its northwestern Zambian listening audience.

On Friday morning, Harrison, Peter, and Michael P. visited the church plant where pastors and a number of new converts met to get acquainted. Everyone was enthused that a number of new believers actually showed to mingle with the team.

That evening, Wendell brought the third and final message to a crowd numbering 550-600 people. Around 60 individuals prayed to receive Christ and about 225 were healed. Like the night before, Dr. Michael returned to the radio station and brought a final 1 hour message to the listening audience.

On the next day (Saturday), the exhausted mission team made its way to the Ndola airport. Gratefully, the journey home was uneventful. As always, lives had been changed. (I refer specifically to the 2 first-timers—Michael P. and Wendell.) When not asleep or navigating some airport, everyone had much to ponder with regard to all our wonderful God had achieved.

For 2 weeks, the IPICM team of 5 Americans and a Zambian national travelled the “copper belt” region of northwestern Zambia, conducting pastoral-leadership training seminars, broadcasting 3 nights of evangelistic radio messages, holding a 3 night crusade in a socially disengaged community and establishing a church plant in that same community, and all while distributing bibles and reading glasses.

Two of the team’s members (Michael Pruitt and Windell Garrett) were new to Africa, while Peter Valenzuela celebrated his return from the previous year. Dr. Michael Lanier and Harrison Hunter were veteran missionary-evangelists, having ministered in Tanzania, Malawi, and Zambia over the previous 6 years.

As you’re about to read, God did marvelous works in terms of salvations, wonders, and one occasion, turned the devil’s attempt to slay the righteous into a thing of glory. With regard to the latter, where there are those willing to answer God’s call to serve, our Master’s work will not be thwarted.

5/27—6/3

The team departed the United States in 3 groups over the course of the first weekend, arriving within hours of one another in Ndola, Zambia, on Tuesday, May 30^th. With everyone united, joy was a bit muted as it became immediately apparent that some of the bags failed to complete the journey—again—and as it would turn out, at least one failed to find its way to its owner before the last day!

That night, after everyone had retired to their rooms, the degree of the ensuing spiritual battle quickly began to reveal itself: one of the “first- timers” sought Dr. Michael’s intercession; struggling with severe thoughts of unworthiness and accusations. The battle continued the next morning (Wednesday) when Dr. Michael awoke with his own spiritual struggle. A short time later, another first-timer shared how his dreams had been invaded with “provocative” images. As it turned out, all 5 men experienced accusative night-time attacks, clearly demonstrating the presence and hatred of a very real spiritual enemy.

After breakfast, a time was set aside for shopping, but as events played out, no one could anticipate what would soon take place. While the team slowly made its way across a parking lot toward a series of shops, Dr. Michael never saw the car that clipped his leg, knocking him to the ground. It seemed as time had stopped as he lay there writhing in pain, holding his hyper-extended knee. A crowd quickly gathered. When able to again stand, Dr. Michael hugged the driver of the car, assuring the driver that all was forgiven. He then turned to the crowd and proclaimed “what the enemy meant for evil, God meant for good.” (Gen. 50:20) Following the unprompted message, 13 men in the crowd prayed for salvation; some of which later joined the team at a local church meeting. The overall experience was well worth the pain, though Dr. Michael walked with a cane for the duration of the mission trip.

That evening, Harrison and Peter co-preached at the Ndola Bethel Mission church, to an attendance of 53 adults; 3 of which received Jesus Christ. Michael P. and Wendell joined in ministry as the team prayed for healing. (Dr. Michael stayed back to rest and recover.) Among those healed were 4 church members that had cataracts; 2 with misshapen corneas; 1 received restored hearing; and others that had suffered from hypertension, knee and back problems, anxiety, along with a child that suffered from tachycardia.

On the next day (Thursday), the team departed Ndola for Chingola and then Solweizi. Picture if you will, 7 men travelling in a car fitted with 3 bench seats and the vehicle’s back end overly packed with seemingly endless baggage. To add to the obvious discomfort shared by all, the 7-hour journey from Chingola to Solweizi was along mostly pothole-stricken pavement or bumpy dirt roads. Now, add to your imagination clouds of red dust wafting by rolled-down windows, with handkerchiefs stretched across every nose. Truly, missions to the back-side of the world is not for the faint of heart!

After staying the night in Solweizi, the team shared another eventful day (Friday) as they made their way to the small bush community of Kasempa. In many parts of African backcountry, vehicular traffic is uncommon. (Highway traffic—if it exists—is mostly comprised of oxcarts, bicycles, and pedestrians.) The road to Kasempa was all but deserted when the vehicle’s left front tire blew. Thankfully, there was enough tread on the spare to replace another tire, which in turn, replaced the blown tire, thus allowing the team to eventually limp its way to its destination. No one dared ponder the likelihood of additional surprises.

Over the course of 48 hours, 7 congregations completed their march through the bush to converge on Kasempa for the upcoming leadership conference; some believers walking for as many as 50 kilometers (31 miles).

During the opening meeting, the bush came alive with the praise music; the kind that only an African a Capella choir of many voices could offer. Following the heavenly praise, Michael P. brought a message and led 1 individual to Christ. That evening, with most of the conference’s participants present, Peter preached to an estimated attendance of 150, with most present praying to get right with God.

The next morning (Saturday), Dr. Michael taught on the Kingdom of God; specifically, with regard to the role of believers in the Kingdom. An invitation to receive Christ followed with 30 souls professing their need for the Savior. After lunch, a second session commenced: recapping the morning session; including a discussion on the place of spiritual gifts in confirming the Kingdom message; and a general Q and A session.

The evening service was marked with unquestionable power. Harrison brought the message to an assembly of 180 souls, with 10 praying to receive Christ Jesus. Afterward, Peter prophesied that there were people present with medical needs, which he was careful to specify. In all, 6 individuals—1 responding to each specific prophetic utterance—came forward; healing was spoken over each one; and all 6 received their healing. Then Dr. Michael addressed the crowd, speaking healing, to those seeking physical restoration. Approximately 100 persons received healing, demonstrating as much by doing what they couldn’t do just moments prior. Those that didn’t receive healing were again prayed for by the rest of the team with about 35 more healed by the close of the meeting. Some of the healings include a short foot that was lengthened; 2 individuals with side, arm, or leg paralysis were healed; a woman using “witches clay” renounced the practice and was healed; lungs were cleared; many backs, neck, shoulders, ears, knees and more, were healed.

Over the span of three weeks, 52 people prayed for salvation. In addition, the Holy Spirit ministered prophetically in a manner similar to what we read of Agabus (Acts 11:28; 21:10-11). (Our notes indicated a specific count of 27 utterances, but team notes were twice vague on unrecorded numbers. All words were verified accurate by their recipients and many were videoed.) Another 348 received healing, although numerous others were never counted on three occasions. The final tally may have approached 400. And yes, while I’m acutely aware that most Western Christians will never accept such things, try to remember that American Christianity, along with its prejudices, is only a small segment of today’s Christian population, and that most of the Spirit’s ongoing supernatural wonders still occur where the Kingdom of God continues to advance.

In addition to presenting summary figures, I (Dr. Michael Lanier) would like to conclude our ministry posts with a personal touch. While I don’t feel the need to belabor the more supernatural points, I’d like to take a moment to tell you something of a most moving experience. 

I witnessed something I’m afraid I’ll never be able to adequately describe. You’ll need to use your imagination on this one. Somewhere between Zambesi and the end of the world, our vehicle pulled over to a roadside taxi stop so we might greet some of our fellow sojourners from Kabompo. They were waiting for a connecting ride and would soon join us in Zambesi. (Picture a gathering of people patiently waiting on the side of the road for a bus—a metal entity on wheels that has no apparent concept of time or schedule—in the heart of a vast African savanna. And they were waiting without complaint.) Before we could depart our car, everyone, in complete unison, broke into spontaneous song and dance, praising God for His greatness. How difficult it was to hold back our tears. Minutes later, a small bus carrying more church members pulled to a stop about one quarter of a mile behind us. As the bus unloaded and we were recognized in the distance, its travelers immediately raced down the highway—running like a herd of wildebeests—ready to join in the celebration. Soon, everyone was singing and dancing amid the euphoria that only African believers can generate. What beauty! How wonderful it was to experience such joy in such a wonderful people. How infectious! I freely admit, they were not the only ones dancing at the taxi stop. 

Jesus told us we will always have the poor among us, but truly the term “poor” is relative. To try to describe the material poverty of the places we visited would be futile. Even so, material poverty means little from an African perspective. Children playing in dirt roads with nothing more than a toy car made from wound wire and pushed with a stick, or young men playing soccer with a ball made from bound plastic bags, is an everyday thing. No one seems aware of their material poverty. Their richness is something quite different. 

I’ve traveled far and wide over my 24 years of doing mission-evangelism and I can say without doubt, African believers are truly rich in ways westerners often fail to comprehend. In truth, they may know little about Christian doctrine, and many don’t have access to a bible, but they know how to celebrate life more than anyone I know. Imagine watching competing congregations singing and dancing their expressions of adoration under a big-top tent illumined by nothing more than a single solar charged light. Now, still with song in ear, step away from the tent and add to your imagination the majesty of our God’s starry overhead display in the black of night. Yes, African Christians are truly rich—and they are blessed!

May we never tire from serving such a wonderful people. 

Dr. Michael Lanier, Executive Director

6/5—6/15

Monday was a day of travel to Kabompo where the team met and stayed with their host and pastor of Word of Life Church, Steven Kajila. For the remainder of the mission trip, Harrison, Michael, and Stephen would minister in the “bush.”

Tuesday marked the first day of ministry in the northwestern and furthest stretch of the mission trip. In the single street township of Kabompo, several church congregations from outlying communities came together that afternoon. All met under the large tent that had served the needs of Word of Life Church for some time. Ninety-nine souls were in attendance for the seminar presented by Michael. Two prophetic words followed, but without a time of healing.

On the following morning (Wednesday), Harrison preached to a gathering of 64, with one individual praying for salvation. Following the meeting, the team packed their belongings and journeyed to the end of the highway—literally—marking the furthest extent of the road system in northwestern Zambia. The team would spend the next two days in a village outside the township of Zambesi; so named after the nearby river from which the nation of Zambia also received its name.

The night of our team’s arrival, Harrison preached to an estimated 125 in attendance; under a tent in the heart of a village dotted with abundant mud brick huts with thatched roofs. Picture attending a tent service without electricity (the village was without water and electricity) with only a single solar powered light to dimly light the speaker’s platform and you’ll begin to what most evening services are like in Africa. Following the message, approximately two-thirds of those present received demonstrable healings. (As at all times, IPICM’s policy is that anyone claiming to be healed is asked to prove their claim of healing is true, if their affliction is of a nature that can be demonstrated.) Healing was first spoken over those in need, but as is common, a small number (fourteen) did not receive healing when it was spoken. They were quickly invited to come forward to have hands laid on them and healing was commanded a second time. On the second attempt, all fourteen received their healing.

Many testified of their healings at the close of the service, but because of its unusual nature, only one will be mentioned here. The pastor’s wife had suffered from a twisted, dislocated stomach for 11 years. At the moment everyone was told to place their hands on the part of their body in need of healing—which she also did—as the command for healing was spoken, her stomach miraculously snapped back into its normal position. Psychosomatic? Hardly!

On Thursday morning, 45 persons heard Harrison bring a message. Later in the day, with their work done in Zambesi, the team returned to Kabompa and the Word of Life Church. That evening, Michael spoke to a crowd exceeding 200, with 35 of those present praying to receive Jesus and God’s gift of salvation.

On the following morning (Friday), Michael taught the final Kingdom of God seminar lesson to an attendance of 209 church leaders and members from various communities.

In the afternoon, a number of pastors met with Harrison and Michael for an informal question and answer session. If was then that Michael was first struck with how little many pastors truly understand of the basics of Scripture. Cultural beliefs, as noted in many of the pastors’ questions, were clearly inserted and deeply embedded within Christian doctrine. Furthermore, roughly half of those present didn’t possess bibles and of those who did, some couldn’t read theirs’ as they had no reading glasses.

Also in the afternoon, the team witnessed a group of pastors attempting to cast a “demon of affliction” out of a woman. The woman was lying on the group with several men standing over her shouting, “Come out, come out, come out . . . .” There was no noticeable result. The team did not interfere. (It wasn’t until the next day that the pastors asked the team if they could help, that a simple word of healing was spoken and the woman rose to her feet, healed.)

Stephen Kaindu, the Regional Director of IPICM and fellow team member, brought the evening message with over 200 believers present. Following the sermon, 40 were healed when the command for healing was again spoken. In addition to the healings, two people were saved during the service.

Saturday marked the final day and night of ministry in Kabompo with the usual number in attendance. Harrison spoke in the morning. Stephen brought the afternoon message. Later in the day, Michael held another information question and answer session with 7 pastors.

In the evening, Harrison preached the final service at the Word of Life Church with more than 200 present. One received salvation with another thirteen receiving healing by verbal command. Five individuals did not receive their healing. Those that didn’t receive came forth for additional ministry. Michael had the ten pastors present to divide into teams of two; lay their hands on their person; directed them to command healing; and when finished, inquire whether healing had come. With the one exception that was more a counselling situation, all testified they were healed at the hands of local pastors.

On Sunday, the team began their homeward-bound journey, with a stopover for the night in Solwezi. Then the following day, they made their way to Ndola where they spent the night. The next morning was the day of their departure. By Wednesday, Harrison and Michael were home with their families.

5/29—6/4

Sunday marked the first of a three-day event in Manyama, northwestern Zambia. The team arrived at Bethel Mission Church where two local churches came together for a combined total of 180-200 in each meeting. Following some of the most beautiful acapella music imaginable, Michael began the service with his Kingdom of God teaching, which was followed by Peter and a message intended to share the teaching’s application.

With teaching and preaching concluded, it was time for ministry of a different nature—prophetic ministry followed by a time of healing. (The team usually ministers in this order to prevent chaos. People are genuinely interested in hearing the prophetic words that are spoken over members of the congregation, but once healings begin to manifest, things can quickly become chaotic.) It was during the prophetic time that Michael called for the man he’d seen in his vision the night before during prayer time. Michael called but there was no response. After a moment, thinking that perhaps the vision was for another day, the crowd erupted in applause as the aging man rose to his feet. Sitting near the back of the church, he made his way forward. Not to belabor the prophetic element, everything was just as the Spirit had revealed the night before. Words of revelation and encouragement poured over the man, to which he acknowledged the validity and accuracy at the conclusion of his time of ministry. In all, seventeen people received prophetic words—all of which confirmed their accuracy—and 57 received and demonstrated their healings when healings were commanded in mass from the front of the church. (When the crowd is too large for individual laying on of hands, and when the Spirit leads, mass healing is usually spoken over the assembly. This practice was first put into action at a meeting in Nepal three years earlier and is recorded as a blog post.)

As an added note, this was the first meeting and first year that mass healings were regularly videoed. In this particular meeting, with the sunlight waning and the absence of electricity, the video slowly erupts in applause and then shouts of joy as silhouetted figures frantically wave their hands in demonstration of each individual’s manifested healing. It is a remarkable sight to behold!

Some wondered how Monday could top Sunday’s meeting. Harrison brought an application message to the Kingdom of God theme shared the previous day. Happy then spoke on the authority Christians have over healing. Among the initial 125 in attendance, there were 11 prophetic words in the morning and a number of healings in the afternoon.

One notable event should be mentioned. A woman brought her “rebellious son” forward for prayer. As Peter began to pray for the son, the mother instantly shot backward, landing on a number of children sitting nearby. Laying there, manifesting odd behavior, several in the church whisked her away to another room where they prayed for her deliverance. The children were unharmed—only startled (along with most of the team).

By the close of the day, many others had joined the meeting. With the light of day failing, the service was closed with a second day of mass healing via the spoken command. Around 120 receiving healing in this manner.

Tuesday marked the third and final day of ministry in Manyama. Happy had already departed for home, leaving at sunrise, and everyone else was scheduled to leave that afternoon. What was initially looking like an epilog was about to explode into something very different. Peter brought a message to a gathering of about 150 in attendance, which was followed by an extraordinary time of prophetic and healing ministry. Michael declared, “There’s a woman here that has a secret that no one knows and she’s unable to have intimacy because of it.” No one came forward until a lady—who was sobbing so loudly that she had become a distraction—approached the team and whispered, “I am HIV positive and I’ve told no one. Because of this, I can’t be intimate.” The team ministered to her and we trust God will act accordingly. A blind elderly woman who’d endured a failed surgery to restore her sight, came forward for prayer. Not only did God prophetically address some special areas of concern that only the woman knew, but he completely healed her from blindness—all of which was captured on video. A young boy of about 3 years of age, carried on his mother’s back, was prayed for. As the boy could not stand on his own, his mother held him up while the team prayed for his healing. Nothing happened at that moment. Only after the service concluded in another 15-20 minutes, did Michael see the child running—that’s “running”—outside the church, causing many to gather around. Again, that too was videoed.

Wednesday was a day of travel back to Solwezi and a small measure of rest. Peter began his preparation to return to America, leaving Harrison, Michael, and Stephen to minister the final week. Before his departure, Peter ministered one last time in Ndola.

On Thursday, at the Bethel Mission Church in Solwezi, Harrison and Michael ministered to a gathering of 33 church members. Following the message, there were healings and prophetic utterances as the team had come to expect, but two prophecies in particular stood out. In each case, the individuals were called forward; both of which received explicit words containing details of specific and recent events in their lives, and what God desired to come of those events. The first, a young man who was seeking his place in ministry, had been coaxed by two friends to join them in a ministry scheme with the goal of ministering Christ for money. The Spirit shared details and explicitly warned the individual not to take part. (The young man’s wide-eyed expression was caught on video; a testimony to the word’s accuracy in its own right.) Next, an older man was called forward. God assured him he would be given wisdom to deal with his burden for younger men who were going astray. The Spirit then spoke of a particular young man he would reach by describing the teenager; how he would often hang his head and move things around with his foot in a particular manner. As it turned out, the individual was his son. At the service’s conclusion, both men stood and testified to the accuracy of their words and how they were encouraged.

Friday saw a continuation of ministry in Bethel Mission Church. Harrison brought the message to an attendance of 57 and Michael prophesied to four individuals.

On Saturday, the remaining team ministered one final time at Bethel Mission Church. With 51 in attendance, Michael taught and then conducted a question and answer session. Four individuals received prophetic utterances.

That evening, at Cruswell’s home where the missionaries had been staying, there was a time of prayer for the family. Harriet, who had had bad knees, was healed of her affliction; something she was willing to demonstrate.

The next morning (Sunday), the team conducted its final service at Bethel Mission Church. Thirteen of the 177 souls present prayed to receive salvation. The congregation was then asked if there were any who were in need of healing to which many raised their hands. As is common in a large group situation, healing was commanded in the name of Jesus. All but six of the 66 who indicated their need for healing were healed. The six were then called to come forward to have hands laid on them. All were healed, though a single case of Malaria could not immediately be confirmed.

For years, whenever the core team of IPICM has travelled afar to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ with other cultures, there has been something of a price to pay. Although sometimes aimed directly against the team members themselves, in more recent years, family members have often received what can only be described as the brunt of Satan’s wrath. The ongoing record is far too lengthy to be discussed here. But as it happened, this year proved to be little different from years past. For example, three members of Harrison’s family, in three different parts of the country, visited hospital emergency rooms the week before the team’s departure. That same week, Michael’s parents each received disparaging health diagnoses and his sister was quickly scheduled for major surgery. And these were only the beginnings of what both men were forced to endure while on the mission field. It might also be noted that in the two weeks that followed their returns home, Harrison’s problems continued with his “car from hell,” while Michael’s father was hospitalized twice in the same week that Michael himself was treated for pneumonia. Just a coincidence? (Michael’s father passed away five weeks following his return.)

What has always stood out to those forced to put up with the enemy’s tactics, is something of a silver lining. We know the enemy of the faith would never work so hard if he didn’t have so much to lose. We at IPICM freely admit, our goal is to plunder the kingdom of darkness. What you are about to read is evidence of that goal’s partial fulfillment.

5/23—5/28

By Monday evening, the team of three—Dr. Michael Lanier, Harrison Hunter, and Peter Valenzuela—begun their journey, resulting with their meeting up in New Jersey. Harrison and Peter flew from Arizona, whereas Michael departed from Texas. Harrison’s daughter, Kellee, was kind enough to pick up the team from the airport at late-night intervals. By daybreak, the three men launched out on what was to be a memorable trek. First, they had to hasten to catch a bus in Weehawken—in the rain, dragging their bags in tote—to take them to the Port Authority hub. Nearly missing their stop—which they would have missed had it not been for an observant fellow passenger—they travelled to New York where they then hooked up with the subway system. The goal was to make it to JFK Airport in time for their morning flight. The greatest concern was for potential delays associated with the morning commute and then a potentially long wait at TSA security. But God’s grace was with the team, as it made the jaunt without incident. Even TSA was virtually empty, though it had been in the news for weeks for having as much as two hour waits at many major airports.

Tuesday was spent in the air between New York and Johannesburg, South Africa. The flight, though long (15 hours over the Atlantic Ocean), was uneventful and very tiring.

By Wednesday afternoon, the team had made its way from Johannesburg to the town of Ndola, in northwestern Zambia. I’ll pause to share a bit of humor. Not knowing exactly what to expect when flying into Zambia, as it was expected to be different from the normal border crossing, the team followed the precise instructions for entry as stated on the official Zambian Embassy website. However, the tree men quickly learned that nothing on the site seemed to apply. Passports were stamped without need for visa applications, yellow fever card, etc. When Michael inquired as to why our visa forms were not needed as stated in the websites conflicting info, “Misinformation!” was the only response offered. Okay. In hindsight, it’s better to have what’s requested and not need it than . . . .

Stephen Kaindu—who would serve as the team’s host for the next three weeks—met the men at the airport. After a bit of brief business (buying food and phones), the team made its way to a local guest house were everyone began their adjustment to African time; preparing for the immanent “jet lag” ordeal.

Thursday was slated for the first day of ministry. The team had been asked to bring a devotion to a gathering of teachers at a nearby school. As is often the case in Africa, Michael and Harrison—the latter designated to speak—arrived late and were given just three minutes to present a word. Not a good start, but they managed their assignment. The rest of the day was given to some much needed rest. The team was also joined by our Malawian friend and partner, Happy Gondwe, who travelled a grueling trek by bus to join the team in northwestern Zambia.

On Friday, the full team ministered at Bethel Mission Church, in Ndola. Michael taught the first of several lessons on the Kingdom of God, with Harrison following-up with the application and Peter sharing that Jesus is “the unchanging miracle worker.” Those in attendance numbered 123, with one individual praying for salvation. The meeting marked the first of a three-week long series of prophetic and healing services.

Saturday was a travel day. The team rented a car to take them first to Solwezi and later to Manyama; the team was scheduled to minister at the latter for the next three days. The drive was truly an eye opening event. The men travelled for an unrelenting eight hours down a highway that was sometimes wide enough for a single vehicle, and sometimes nothing more than a dirt road. The journey was rough but not entirely unexpected. No one complained. When the team finally arrived in the sleep town of Manyama, the sun was already nearing the end of its day. The men setup home in the Washi Washi Guest House, where a meal, bath, bed, and some much needed rest were welcomed by all.

At this point, one additional note should be added. The three men, along with their African partners, met for prayer before turning in for the night. During prayer time, Michael received a vision that the team would minister to a tall, slim, aging man with greying hair and beard on the next day. The man is “distraught, in despair, and hopeless” came the accompanying words. Although no one truly knew the magnitude of what to expect the coming morning, Michael shared that he believed the team was about to embark on some of the most powerful meetings they would experience over the course of the coming three weeks. Little did he know just how true his words would be.

As with previous trips, I (Dr. Michael Lanier) would like to take a brief amount of space to summarize a few closing thoughts regarding our mission trip to Africa.  

In certain respects, the 2015 venture was a continuation of what we’ve experienced in recent years. Our team was privileged to witness somewhere around 961 souls professing Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and over 900 declaring—and for the most part clearly demonstrating—healings over our three week stay. This is significant by any standard. We continued to work with local churches and chaplains to insure that those who came to Christ would not stand alone. 

Our team experienced more spiritual conflict than at previous times. A sense of oppression was experienced by all at one time or another. Though breakthroughs were brief, the battle was more intense and clearly discerned than usual, with two of our team awakened in different nights to the presence of evil. While somewhat unusual to the western mind, events such as these should be more expected than they normally are. After all, our goal is to invade and deplete the kingdom of the “god of this world” (2 Corinthians 4:4), to which no one expects he will capitulate without a struggle. 

Just as sure as the wicked realm made its presence known, so too did the Great King of heaven and earth. As for myself, I’d never experienced anything quite like peering into the heavens (Monday, week 1). For two men that had never discussed such matters among themselves (Harrison and myself) to have shared in identical experiences at the very same moment, is a testimony to what God is still willing to share with those who are His own. 

As for the wonders of God, I noticed something a bit different this year. The quality of the more miraculous elements seemed lacking. In fact, I don’t remember seeing the lame walk or anyone blind receiving sight. Perhaps such needs were simply not present. Regardless, many healings were manifested; just of a more basic nature. On the other hand, visions of immanent healings and prophetic utterances seemed to manifest at a new height. No vision or prophetic word went unfulfilled. 

Finally and as always, the people of eastern Africa were wonderful. New friends are always hard to leave behind. Everyone on the team, upon their departure and for some time afterward, felt a common emptiness in their hearts. I thank God that He has given us fond memories. 

Dr. Michael Lanier, Executive Director

7/5—7/11

Sunday was a travel day for the team to make its way back to Blantyre and then to Lilongwe, arriving Monday.

Tuesday’s ministry at the Bible Baptist Church in Lilongwe was a unique time of power-filled ministry for everyone present. George began the service with a sermon. When finished, Michael moved the meeting into a time of prophetic ministry. Several individuals received words to which each testified to their accuracy. Each of the utterances included private matters (not always open shared where others could hear), actions the individuals had taken or were considering taking, and specific conversations the people had had. To watch the Spirit move in such ways is nothing short of astonishing! Following the prophetic ministry, the congregation was asked if they had afflictions that needed to be healed. Twenty-one hands went up. Healing was then commanded to come forth for those who had raised their hands. Hands were laid on none. Over the next several minutes, all 21 stood one at a time to testify—and even demonstrate—they’d received their healings. Astonishing.

While still in Lilongwe (Wednesday), the team, without Michael, visited Maula Prison. Harrison brought the evangelical message to a crowd of 72 with 27 acknowledging their need for salvation. Forty were healed; 15 by spoken command and 25 through laying on of hands. After the visit, the full team travelled to Petauke, Zambia, where they were scheduled to hold a three-day crusade.

Thursday morning was a much needed day of rest for the team. Lengthy days of travel always take a toll and the journey to Petauke was no exception. In addition to an overall sense of tiredness and thoughts of an eminent return to their families, the team members were forced to fight a measure of disappointment as preparations for the three-day event were obviously severely lacking. In brief, someone did not live up to expectations with regards to getting the word out. Crowds were generally small, ranging from 110-175, depending on the night. Even so, about 100 received Jesus Christ on the first night with 162 healed and 175 present. Michael brought the message all three nights.

Late in the night—the typical time for spiritual combat—Michael was briefly awakened by the horrible and fleeting smell of the rankest of sewage. It lasted no more than one or two seconds, but he immediately recognized the spiritual source. He’d heard of similar events from other Christian’s in times past.

On Friday morning, the team met with a young house church, so packed and overflowing that many had to sit outside and listen as best they could. George, Harrison, and Happy took turns teaching during the morning session. With the time of teaching concluded, Michael opened the prophetic service that followed. Many were ministered to, often voluntarily testifying to the accuracy of their words. Healings occurred, as well as one deliverance.

During the unusually cool evening, the second crusade event went well with 125 in attendance; 90 accepting Christ and many others healed.

Later in the night in the privacy of his own room, George sensed a “cold” presence. He later told the others he was locked in a spiritual battle from about 3:00 am to sunrise.

The next morning (Saturday), George, Harrison, and Happy shared a second day of teaching ministry. Following the teaching session, there were two deliverances, followed by a time of prophetic ministry. Those in attendance were about 45 in the house and 15 outside.

That night, the team held the third and final night of the crusade. Of those present, 86 received salvation and 95 were healed.

Early Sunday morning, before sunrise, the team left Petauke to travel to Chipata; the last town in Zambia before crossing back into Malawi. It was there where the team would conduct its final meeting of the campaign. With 160 bodies packed into a single schoolroom designed for a class numbering 30 or so, George brought the sermon and Michael conducted a time of prophetic ministry. (With regard to prophetic ministry, once again, as throughout the previous three weeks, God was faithful to address specific needs, often explicitly discussing people, places, events, and even conversations the recipients had had; details of a nature that no one could know other than the persons who experienced them. As seems to be something of a standard pattern, most prophetic utterances consist of three elements: the person’s past, present, and future. Utterances of past and present events serve to confirm the validity of future events.) Our God is an awesome God who is always willing to minister in whatever ways His children will allow.

Later in the day the team made its way back to Lilongwe, Malawi. After bidding farewell to their hosts—Pat and Rey Malunga and Pastor Happy—the team departed for home the next day.

6/28—7/4

On Sunday, our team split-up to be able to minister at two churches. Before Harrison was to travel to Truth Gospel Church where he had ministered the prior year, the group interceded for the two services. Michael informed Harrison to watch for a mature, slightly heavier woman in a patterned dress; that there was a special need that he was to address. That afternoon, Harrison rejoined the team at the Champions in Christ church following the conclusion of his own service, where he confirmed he encountered the woman just as it had been prophesied; the last person he prayed for in a healing line. In the meantime, George brought the message to Champions in Christ Church.

Back at our host’s home, the team noticed the spiritual battle that had overwhelmed Michael during the first night in Malawi had now expanded to include the rest of the team. First, George confessed he needed prayer for spiritual heaviness. The gloom quickly lifted following intercession. Then when Harrison entered the room, he promptly declared the exact same need; completely unaware of George’s profession just minutes earlier. In like manner, his heaviness quickly lifted as well following intercession on his behalf. Finally, and perhaps not unexpected, David entered the room, expressing the exact same need. As with the men only moments prior, his oppression lifted too, along with the departure of a headache.

On Monday evening, the group gathered to intercede for the prison service where they were to minister the next morning. During the prayer gathering, George prophesied a lame man at prison would be healed. But something else also happened during the group prayer. Harrison and Michael—independently—experienced something that can only be described as a divine encounter in the heavens. Independently and unbeknown to each other, the two men witnessed a heavenly figure overhead—clearly a divine revelation unlike anything either had ever experienced. Following the time of prayer, Harrison approached Michael privately and said, “I just saw an angel.” Michael, still awash with his own encounter, responded by describing what Harrison had just seen. “What you saw was a brilliant face, but without facial detail due to the glory. There was a smile but you couldn’t actually see it because of the brilliance. And the person you saw had slightly curled hair that resembled the silver lining of clouds, with waves of power and authority emanating all about, accompanied with a tremendous sense of joy and peace.” Harrison affirmed Michael’s description and added, “I think it was an angel.” Michael thought otherwise, saying he thought it was the Lord himself. But who could be sure since neither man was used to experiencing such things. Only one thing was certain, the event would never be forgotten!

Prison ministry at Chichiri prison facility in Blantyre took place the next morning (Tuesday). Harrison preach and 225 responded to receive salvation. Following the message, Michael spoke healing to those present and 71 declared they were healed. (It is significant to understand that anytime our team prays for, or commands healing, that we require each individual to prove their healing by doing something they couldn’t do minutes earlier. Although some things cannot be demonstrated, such as healing from HIV, most healings can be confirmed.) As the team was preparing to depart, George saw the lame man with crutch he envisioned the night before during intercessory prayer. Working his way through the crowd, George made his way to the man where he immediately commanded healing for the individual. With that, the man threw down his crutch and began to slowly walk at first, then jog with Michael across the prison yard until he was completely winded. Prior to dismissing the prison yard meeting, the team distributed soap and Vaseline to everyone present.

Later that day, George, David, Harrison, and Happy gave away 45 bags of food and some cash to members of the community who were in dire straits and who gathered at Champions in Christ for ministry. Everyone that sought healing at the meeting were healed—21 in all.

On the following morning (Wednesday), the team visited Dvumbwe Youth Offenders Rehabilitation Center—a prison facility for younger men. Harrison brought the word to 261 men ranging in ages 17-25. Everyone that heard the evangelistic sermon prayed for salvation. Likewise, almost everyone present had a need for healing; received healing ministry; and in turn expressed they had been healed, though a few could not demonstrate a verification due to the nature of their affliction. Once again, soap and Vaseline were distributed to all.

On Thursday, the team travelled to Ngabu to hold the first night of a three night crusade. Approximately 500 people were present, joining in song and dance led by a Malawian music celebrity. By the end of the night, there were 91 professions of faith and somewhere around 150 received healing. Unfortunately, not everyone prayed for is always healed. Two crippled young children were not healed at the time, along with another young man. This troubled the team but everyone knew such were matters best left in God’s hands—where they belonged. Michael brought the message all three nights.

Estimates for crowd attendance on the second night (Friday) ranged from 1,000-1,500 souls. Over the course of the evening, 73 were saved, Happy prophesied the immanence of six specific healings (all six individuals received their healing and came forward to testify), approximately 100 received healing when hands were laid on people in need and another estimated 100 received their healings via spoken commands for healing.

On the third crusade night (Saturday), only an estimated 350 were present due to a death in the community. (In parts of Africa, the entire community mourns by staying home on the occasion of a local death, even though the chief may give his approval otherwise.) On this night, 50 were saved and another 90 received healing.

6/24—6/27

On this venture to Africa, our team was small, made up of no more than five Americans along with our Malawian host, Happy Gondwe. Our American team consisted of Dr. Michael Lanier, Harrison Hunter, and the father and son team of George and David Dossett.

According to our normal procedures, whenever our team travels overseas for mission work, we depart on a Monday and arrive two days later. Knowing that it will take a couple of days to acclimate to a new time zone—usually seven or eight time zones earlier than at home—and because it seems best to remain nearby our arriving airport to insure our bags make the journey, we limit our first couple of days of ministry to nearby events.

Wednesday afternoon, we arrived in Lelongwe, Malawi, without incident. Even our bags made the trip, exceeding our normal expectations. Our hosts, Happy and Rey Malunga picked us up at the airport as they had on our previous four visits. That evening, we settled in for some much needed rest at Rey’s home. He and his wife Pat are always the epitome of gracious hosts. But that night spiritual battles began in earnest. During the evening, Michael suffered from an unrelenting night-time struggle with accusations, unworthiness, and worthlessness; leaving him completely depressed when we awoke the next morning. It was only after speaking about the matter with George that the heaviness lifted. Our spiritual enemy knew we had arrived and was there to greet us.

On Thursday, the team trekked through the “bush” for nearly two hours to reach a remote village for its first outreach ministry. People from the surrounding area had already arrived and were ready to hear what the men had come to share. So many had gathered in fact, that the service was held under the trees instead of the small church at the center of the village. As a result, 49 persons prayed for salvation and somewhere around 30 received healing for a variety of needs. When finished, the car-load again embarked on its off-road journey; this time back to Lelongwe and to Rey’s house.

By Friday morning, we were ready to travel by public transportation to Blantyre. Later that evening, while praying as a group in Happy’s home, George had a word that a woman that would be present the next day to receive some much needed ministry in the church we were to visit. No one knew the meaning or significance until the event unfurled.

The next morning (Saturday), the team ministered at the Champions in Christ where Happy was the senior pastor. Before the meeting began and during a time of team prayer for the meeting, Michael envisioned the presence of a woman with heavy burdens, hair back, and a striped dress, to which George added that the woman had no hope. As church members were arriving, George saw the woman—as described—sitting near the back of the church. He quietly stepped behind her, laying his hand on her shoulder. Immediately, she burst into tears. George than brought her to front for prayer where Michael prophesied regarding her hearing voices—which she affirmed—and then prayed that she be set free. There were a number of healings that day but no actual count was recorded. The mission trip was off to a strong start.