Transition Time

---

We express our sincere appreciation to you all for your continued prayers and support. Over the past three and a half years we have learned a lot about Tanzanian culture and mission work. Your backing has enabled us to focus our attention upon changing lives for eternity. The souls we have taught and the men we have helped train can go forth on the narrow way and can call others to that Way.

Over the past couple of decades and more, there has been considerable effort focused in northern Tanzania and some in the very far south by the people of God. However, many areas still remain relatively untouched by the gospel. Tanzania’s population has grown from about 10 million (1960) to over 42 million (2008) in less than 50 years. More than 80% of the population is rural. Evangelistic efforts certainly have not kept pace with this multiplication of souls. At nearly one million square kilometers it is the world’s 31st largest country. The country is divided into 26 regions and 99 districts. Municipal councils are located in Arusha, Dodoma, Iringa, Kilimanjaro, Mbeya, Morogoro, Shinyanga, Tabora, and Tanga.

With a desire to focus our efforts upon a new field and upon indigenous methods we are considering the town of Iringa (one of the key cities named above). As far as we can determine there is at most a small group of about 15 Christians meeting near this town, and no missionaries from the Lord's church. Iringa is the capital of the region. According to a 2002 census this region has a population of nearly 1.5 million. Before leaving on our recent furlough we (Jacob, Carey Samford, myself) were able to make one survey trip to this city. Since furlough was hard upon us, time did not allow for proper indepth investigation and assessment.

In just a few short weeks, the Andrew Connally School of Preaching will hold the graduation for eight men who will return to various places in Tanzania and Kenya. That will conclude my responsibilities with the school. We are requesting your specially directed prayers for our transition to a new phase of evangelism here in Tanzania. My mind reflects upon missionaries of years gone by who had a willingness to chart a course into the unknown. The determination and vision of the apostle Paul provides us great encouragement. He said: “making it my aim so to preach the gospel, not where Christ was already named, that I might not build upon another man’s foundation (Romans 15:20). Our experience of starting a congregation in Pacifica, California (1993) where the Lord’s church had not previously been established makes the present proposition a little less intimidating. Thank you again for your love and support of the Jensens in the work of spreading the saving message of the Savior.

George Jensen

---

Comments

[Ken Upchurch]

TZ 2000 is going to miss the Jensens
More than that those you have taught the gospel to and demonstrated to them how to live the Christian life are going to miss your example and your goodness. Beyond that it breaks my heart to see you go because you are not replaceable in our work. None the less what a blessing you will be in Iringa and wherever you work for the Kingdom. You will always be a bright spot in the work of TZ 2000, and unforgetable friendship will always exist between my heart and yours. God bless you all and thank you for all the good you have done and will do. as you know me best just ken