Newsletter June 2012 from Jurgen en Katja Hofmann

Dear friends,

We have been in England for 9 months now and can truly say this has become our second home. We enjoy the company of you – our new friends - and sense that we are where we need to be, preparing ourselves for missionary work in Africa. In this letter we like to inform you about important developments over the last months with regards to studies and our contact with Africa Inland Mission.

Studies: Religious Diversity

Jurgen has very recently handed in his papers for his third trimester's assignments on the subjects 'Develpment of Christian Faith in History' and 'Introduction to Religious Diversity'. When all is well he will receive his Certificate on Saturday, the 30th June.
The 'Introduction to Religious Diversity' was particularly interesting, since it dealt directly with different worldviews and religions. A lot of study has gone into islam, which is very relevant to missionary work in Africa. Although there are countries (mainly in the north) that can be seen as muslim countries, among many other tribes in Africa some form of folk islam is practiced. This means that islam has become intertwined with older, mostly animistic, religions. As a result of this course we have become opener to working amongst muslims, especially those who practice folk islam.

At home

As mentioned above, England has become our second home. After 9 months of living here we have a better understanding of the differences and similarities in cultures. We find it most intriguing to dig deep into our own roots and understand more of what culture is, and how it compares to the English heritage and – later – to other cultures.

On Sunday the 17th of June we were welcomed as members of the Bridgnorth Baptist Church. This has meant more to us than we had expected. It is very special to us to fully be part of a body of believers here, and to be allowed to contribute and take part in the life of the church.

The children are being taught at home by Katja. Katja uses both Dutch and English materials. This schoolyear Vanya is studying 'World Cultures' during her history lessons. Issa and Abbey are doing a core with the title 'Exploring God's World. Educating the children at home gives us the opportunity to prepare the children for yet another step abroad.

Mission organisation

Since Jurgen attended AIM's seminar 'Into Africa?' in February we have given joining up with AIM (Africa Inland Mission) a lot of thought, prayer and consultation. We believe applying for a membership of AIM is the logical next step for us. Should you wish to read more about AIM, you can do so on their website www.aimint.org/eu.

We hope to send in the application forms this or the coming month. The application process alone takes months since references are taken, as well as an interview. You can stay fully up to date though our website.

Your prayers and encouragements are much appreciated.

With blessings,

Jurgen& Katja Hofmann
Vanya, Issa, Abbey & Dani