Dear friends,
I have just returned from a month in Togo. To some it might have seemed like a journey of grief, others viewed it as a work trip, and still others as a time to remember Sherry. For me, it was the only thing that truly made sense.
Bottom line. I loved being in Togo and could almost feel Sherry’s presence in every step. When I arrived at the Lomé office a large picture of her from her last visit in 2021 greeted me in the foyer. Starting from day one, I was joined by groups that Sherry and I had worked with: the Prisca Peace Project women, pastors receiving motorcycles, intercessors, and leaders from our sponsored schools. What began as solemn gatherings soon turned into moments of revival and connection. Friends like Roger, Akoule, Sedjro, and Abla, who stood with us since 1977, shared memories, prayers, and tears with me.
On my first Sunday, I preached at “L’Eglise Baptiste de Tokoin Doumasseesee”—the church that began in our home in 1977 and that we fondly called Le Foyer. That place holds so much of our history and feels like home to me.
Working with Missionary Ventures Int, we provided six motorcycles to pastors serving in our Living Water Well communities. Although we initially requested 20, we’re grateful for every one. In fact, a widow from Arkansas heard about the need and donated funds for another, making it seven in total! Our goal is to supply all 18 pastors with transportation so they can reach the remote villages they serve. If you’re moved to support, please visit www.abridgetoafrica.org/
I traveled up country to lead a Gospel of Shalom seminar for 60 pastors in Atakpame. It was energizing to be with these dedicated pastors and feel their passion for their villages that often go without clean water, and adequate nutrition. Four pastors from our Living Water Well projects shared stories of transformation, inspiring others with testimonies that sparked applause, cheers, and singing. These pastors found hope that they could see their communities transformed through the Gospel of Shalom. They have Muslim neighbors, relatives and village brothers and sisters in need of the Good News that is found in the Gospel.
This trip renewed my commitment to finding partners who can help us bring transformation to these villages through our Living Well Community projects a Living Water Well will jump start transformation in their village. We have a map in our Lomé conference room highlighting 18 villages from Lomé to Dapaong where these efforts are underway. Our Togolese team is dedicated and ready, and now, we seek U.S. partners who can support this mission.
One of the most encouraging moments of my time in Togo was a gathering of 50 Prisca Peace Project women who have used small loans to grow their businesses. For two hours, they shared how these funds had impacted their lives, families, and communities. At the end, the women surrounded me with songs, dances, and prayer. They lined up to give me hugs and personal words of encouragement. I was caught up with Sherry in the heavenly places.
Currently, 100 women are in this program, and each one represents a step toward sustainable change in their village. You can sponsor a Prisca Peace Project in any amount, and together, we can bring transformation to all 18 villages where we are at work.
When the team of five arrived on October 20th from BT McAllen with two staff pastors, Nick and Lee, a lay businessman and woman, Wally and Carolyn, along with my pastor’s wife from Greenwood, Carrie, and Rebekah, the team leader, I was eager to join them for the last 10 days of my October Journey. It was wonderful! The team knit as one instantly and worked beautifully with the Togolese people. They visited schools where we have sponsored students and when they came to Bon Serviteur School they saw children gathering under a large tree for classes because their school building had collapsed a few days earlier due to heavy rain. Greenwood Church decided to do something about it, and they are now mobilizing to make that happen.
The team visited Prisca Peace Project women at work in their businesses and marveled at how these women were making an impact economically and spiritually. They went to villages where we have Living Water well Projects and quickly resolved to be a part of what God is doing through these churches and villages.
Many of you have asked how I am doing since that August 13 morning when Sherry took the journey of her lifetime. I’m ok. I arrived home on October 30th, played golf with my buddies on the 31st and handed out candy that night to trick or treaters. (I’ve got a lot of Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups left over!) I miss Sherry just about all the time. But I’m ok. God is good. He meets me every morning with fresh mercies and each evening with His great faithfulness. The Lord spoke two things clearly to me while in Togo. I had asked him why he took Sherry before me. He answered with two clear reasons. I hope to share those two things with you later.
As we approach year’s end, I know many of you give generously to causes close to your hearts. Please consider supporting Le Pont International as you make these decisions. www.
I love you and am forever grateful for your partnership in Africa.
In His grip of grace,
Rex Holt