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Mashonaland, South Africa

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Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Jan 16, 1913

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 90, No. 3.

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Mashonaland, South Africa

By Mr. C. L. Bowen; Mrs. C. L. Bowen

We reached Tsungwesi Mission May 30. Brother and Sister M. C. Sturdevant were glad to see us, for the work here had grown beyond the power of four hands to grasp. With one of the rooms of their house as a sleeping-room, and a hut of poles plastered with mud and roofed with thatch for a kitchen, we were made comfortable until we could build for ourselves.
After a few days’ rest, we were given work—teaching in the school, which we found not so very difficult, as English is taught to the older boys and girls, this being required by the Rhodesian government. This also gave us opportunity to learn the native language. We find we are slowly acquiring the language, for which we thank the Lord.
Brother and Sister Sturdevant have been working almost to the breaking point since opening this mission about two years ago. They realize the providence of God in giving them such an ideal location. The soil is very fertile, and the climate seems to be healthful. When we arrived, they were harvesting corn, which was as nice as any I ever saw in the States.
Between school hours we have been making brick and building our house, which is now nearly ready for use. It is built on high ground, so we get a very fine view. This is our first experience in making and laying brick. We find a missionary has to be able to turn his hand to almost everything. We shall have a good, substantial house.
At present we have about forty-five boys and girls staying at the mission, with twenty-five more coming to the day-school from their kraals. The natives are gradually turning toward us as they see that we are building on a sure foundation. We believe the Lord is going to do a good work in this place. We have a number of boys who seem to have bright minds, who we hope will develop into good teachers. We enjoy the work, and hope through the blessing of the Lord to see much fruit develop for his kingdom.
MR. AND MRS. C. L. BOWEN.