Well, the weekend is here and everybody looks forward to some fun time; we are under pressure because we made some big promise: spend the weekend with them for another great movie time. Fr. Gabe completely forgot to bring some nice kids movies. Tomorrow... no idea!!!! Praying... you guys can't overnight we guess... will let you know.

Taking you back few days ago is not too bad; Fr. Gabe has really been trying to work on some special projects and organizing meetings and spending time with the kids. Many people around know by now that he is in town. Now and then, he tries to walk by very fast, ignoring or hiding from the onlooking neighbors; somebody will shout: Father, is that you? We know you are around; come say at least hello to us. They say it in local language, very respectful, loving and... Apology and amendments are the way to go. One of our strategic plans for a safer neighborhood is to try and develop some friendship with our neighbors. Most of our employees and volunteers come from around. You will not believe it, some of them are seriously learning English from a local teacher after we encouraged all to consider English as a fourth, fifth or even sixth or senven language, especially all those working with us.

Two days ago, Fr. Gabe was moved by a grandma, probably in her seventies. She asked him to stop by as he was galloping his way to the orphanage. She was begging, she had not eating since morning and it was around 3:00Pm. After a quick investigation she sounded genuine, really struggling. She emotionally begged and lamented saying that she was not a "thief" and knew Fr. Gabe was a man of God. She was given something like 3 dollars, sending Fr. Gabe forth with lots of blessings. It is very painful to see how many like this old woman and many kids are left to fend for themselves. Fr. Gabe was moved with pity and sadness. How long is this gona last? In Congo, 7 to 8 children and adults are either malnurished or severely undernurished.

Yesterday, the taxi-bus fr. Gabe boarded was stopped by the traffic police and a fight broke between the two police officers and the driver and his assitant. They all fought for two things: the control of the vehicle and the driver's license; it was scary! Fr. Gabe and some passengers tried to intervene, but no way! all had to leave the vehicle and its owners at mercy of the police officers who definitely wanted a bribe they are acustomed to. Fr. Gabe shook his head and exhorted the officers to some honest and kind way of dealing with the driver and his team. The next vehicle Fr. Gabe boarded, one passenger came out of it with a bleeding finger; he had cut himself inside the vehicle. Most of these public transport vehicles are survivors of many accidents and cosmetic makeover that they have sharp metals around waiting to cut skins or tear clothes.

It is another world when you are out there and it is another when you get to the orphanage; find peace and joy, I don't know about quiet! Those little guys are naturally and supernaturally noisy mos the time.

This should be enough for today. I plan to bring you some personal stories of the kids; quite fascinating stories of surval. Stay with us, stay tuned...

Please, wish us a nice, fun-filled weekend! Same to you!