Hello and very warm greetings to all.

As I'm writing this on Wednesday 12th Sept I'm haunted by the horrible images of devastation that has hit America, words cannot describe how that experience has wounded so many and in so many ways. I wanted to acknowledge that at this time and yet I am going to change the subject to another part of our world, one world, God's world.

So I find myself in the rain of Scotland with only a matter of days until I go to Africa. I must start by clarifying a number of issues. I am not going to work in Kisiizi hospital, as I, and many others had thought. There were issues and concerns that contributed to AIM deciding it was not right for me to go there. However after an initial difficult few weeks, much has settled. I am to work with 'Open Door Ministry' in Kampala, the capital of Uganda.

The Open Door work is a Christian work with street children, both in a home/refuge setting and also in a health clinic in a slum area. For those who know me, they will not be surprised that I am delighted with this assignment and very excited about this opportunity to share in this very needy work. I often say there are very few more needy people in the world (and I do appreciate there are many) than these very vulnerable children. I see it as a great privilege to be part of this work and outreach, although as you can appreciate there will be considerable challenges, I'm not just thinking of myself but more for my family and friends. I as always would appreciate your prayers for all these concerns.

There are some updates in regard to communication. I'm pleased to say that hopefully I'll be able to send and receive e-mails easier than in Kisiizi.

My e-mail will be aim-uganda@maf.org Please write my name in the subject box.

My address will be c/o AIM Uganda, PO BOX 4008, Kampala, Uganda.

Amazingly, I also have these web-pages and they will hopefully have updates and photos!!

A lovely friend Ishbel MacDonald is organising and coordinating the newsletters so if there are any concerns contact her - ishbel.mac.donald@virgin.net

A last note is an open invitation to anyone who would like to visit. Even if you have a 'friend of a friend', I know from my own experience that it can make all the difference even in the hugeness of Africa, to know one person, even if it is just me!

Take care and God Bless

LOVE MARSALI