A Flurry of Activity
The week of March 13th to the 19th was a flurry of activity as final preparations were made for the official dedication and opening of the Bridge Cultural Center (BCC) located on thirteen acres of pristine landscape. Guests from Hong Kong, Canada and other parts of Africa began to arrive. Zambian and Chinese decorations created a beautiful portrait of the blending of cultures. And then it happened! On the Friday, leaders from across Zambia gathered for the official dedication of the Centre. Powerful stories were shared in Mandarin telling the impact BCC is having on the Chinese community.
Following the cutting of the ribbon, people toured the property that two years earlier appeared to be more of a concept than a reality. And of course, no dedication would be complete without a traditional Zambian meal!
Saturday was the “icing on the cake” as over one-hundred and twenty Chinese gathered for an open house and BBQ (braai if you live in Africa). A majority were on the property for the first time. How exciting it was to see so many playing games (including the new ping pong table) and enjoying incredible food cooked on open grills.
A second ribbon cutting ceremony officially opened the doors for our Chinese friends to gather, sip on some of the best tea in the world, and be made to feel that BCC could be their home away from home.
So many commented on how much the Bridge Cultural Center was needed and how they looked forward to returning to the property on a regular basis. Some even donated financially as their way of saying thanks.
There are so many to thank
First, our favorite STM Global Worker, David Brace from British Columbia, returned to Zambia for two months and once again used his gifting’s to do what few can do on African soil in such a short period. David hired capable local workers and found building materials at amazing prices. A building that most of us thought would be condemned and torn down is being transformed into a four room cultural training center and a future kindergarten for Chinese children.
There are no words to express how thankful we are to those who have given thousands of dollars to see the walls of this building rebuilt and a new metal roof installed.
Thanks also to the team from Evangel Church in Chatham, Ontario who converted an enormous master bedroom into a self-contained apartment by transforming a walk-in closet into a kitchen. A big shout-out goes to Rob Buck and the boys!!
 
We say thank you to all of you who from day one have believed in this incredible initiative. Through your support, we are not only building a bridge between cultures but ultimately with the One who gives this Easter season such significance.
 Don and Marie-José (MJ)
For those who have not seen it, attached is a BCA video produced by our PAOC International Office. Thank you for your ongoing encouragement and support!
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