September 2008

Dear partners in the mission

As we approach the tenth anniversary of the existence of Reformed Faith and Life-French (1998-2008) the number of radio programmes produced thus far grows steadily: we have now over 400 programmes available.  At the moment a series on the Gospel according to John enjoys my attention (20 programmes already prepared and recorded on chapter 1 to 6).  The series for chilren also continues on a regular basis (120 programmes so far).

At the same time, RFL continues extending its range of broadcasts in Africa :  In Cameroon, a 5 year contract was signed between RFL and Radio-Beach FM (Kribi), involving two Reformed congregations which committed themselves to pay directly the radio station.  This kind of contract provides an excellent opportunity for congregations to support a specific project and focus on a particular French speaking area with the proclamation of the Gospel in view.  In the Democratic Republic of Congo, a new field in the Kasaï region awaits proper financing   - plus minus US$1500 per year - before a contract with Radio Tele Kasaï Horizon can be set up.  A Congolese pastor from the Confessing Reformed Church in the Congo would monitor the whole process. It is hoped that a similar arrangement as the one with Beach FM in Kribi can be made with some local congregations willing to support this project.

With already some much written and recorded material at hand, it would be logical to organize it in a book form.  That is what I have been working on since the beginning of the year (in addition to producing new programmes on a regular base). The redaction of the book (Rendre Compte de l’Espérance,  “To Give an Account of the Hope”) has been completed and is in its final stage of proofreading.  The Swiss publisher L’Age d’Homme, in Lausanne , is now waiting for the final version to be sent to them.  Most probably the book will not be published until next year.  The idea is to distribute it mainly in France and other French speaking parts of Europe as well as Quebec : it is strategically very important to promote it via press reviews or libraries.  Therefore, purchasing copies from the publisher and sending them to the appropriate people or institutions will play a significant role in its distribution.  Africa has not been forgotten though: a number of copies will also be sent to church leaders.  I pray that this presentation of the Biblical faith intended for a mostly secularized public will turn some minds and hearts to the Living God, the source of all true knowledge and hope.  France and the West in general are no less in need of the Gospel than Africa !

As previously mentioned, in November 2008, RFL-French will be 10 years old!  It has grown a lot since its inception, and despite several crisis of different nature, this ministry has stayed alive, by the Grace of our Lord.  It is reaching many people outside and has become known to many churches or Christian organizations abroad.  For my part, I remain committed to the Reformed foundations of this ministry.  My theological and missiological convictions have not changed, only grown deeper, I trust.  May we keep working together to glorify the name of our Lord Jesus Christ who is sending us on the fields of His harvest.  There is still an enormous lot to be done; our efforts must not fade away, even though we know that only the Holy Spirit works out in human hearts the regeneration without which no salvation is possible.

Rev. Eric Kayayan