Finally

Hello Everybody,

I am sorry that it has taken me so long to get back to you with this update. I have been holding off on writing because I wanted to be certain of my plans for next year. But, in all my thinking, writing, discerning, and praying I have come to a decision for 2009. While I still feel that I will do grad school, it will likely just be pushed back a year into 2010. And I have felt God calling me back to continue the work in Cape Town with Africa Jam into 2010.

From when I wrote my last update and was uncertain, I was feeling very overwhelmed and anxious about what was ahead. Now that I have spent the time to seek what God wants, and have made my decision, I have felt very at peace, revived, and excited about next year. I will still be back to the US on the 10th of December, but could be back in Cape Town as early as December 31st for our big camp of the year.

I am stoked to see what 2009 has in store, as I will be continuing with some of the work that was started this year. My main responsibilities will be continuing with leadership development, mentoring the youth, Bible studies, teaching guitar, and organizing our tutoring program. I'm very excited about our Microloan Project (business generating) that I will be in charge of restructuring, implementing and overseeing. We see it as a great way of battling poverty in the lives of the youth and their families. I'm excited about moving forward with Africa Jam and seeing youth impacted spiritually, socially, emotionally, and physically.

This decision is made completely in faith. I am trusting that this is where God wants me, so He will provide for me. While Africa Jam will be covering a few of my costs, most of my living expenses will have to come from elsewhere. Many of you have supported me faithfully financially, in prayer, in encouragement and I'm truly grateful for that and the deepening of our relationships through that. I ask that you would consider that into 2010. If you would like to partner financially with me, please send tax deductible donations to:

Arvada Covenant Church
5555 Ward Road
Arvada, CO 80002

*And make sure the memo says "Ryan DeCook - Africa Jam" on it *

Thank you for all your support and prayers. Please pray for the detail of my return to be worked out and for Africa Jam plan well for 2009 to really be able to impact the youth here. I continue to pray for you all and hope that I will get to see many of you during my visit home to the US. Please let me know if you will be around or available to spend time together in December. Peace

Ryan