Issue #78
January 10, 2001

Dear Friends and Family,
I was going to write this sooner, but our phone lines haven't been cooperating. They went down Saturday evening, and I think they are beginning to work again now. I guess if you receive this message, then they are working.

Charley and I along with all the other FWB missionaries spent the weekend in Daoukro for Field Council meetings. This wasn't a really exciting time for Charley, because we spent the entire time in meetings, and he just got to sit around.

My class is going well. I'm still trying to catch up after arriving later than I had planned. I almost know what I am doing now. We are also trying to catch up on some of the things we missed. I think the high school students think they aren't going to make it already.

The political situation was unstable yet again this past weekend. On Sunday night, there was an attempted coup in Abidjan. They (whoever they may be) tried to take over the television and radio stations. There was gunfire through most of the night and into Monday, but Tuesday everything was back to normal. The elections that didn't happen in December in the northern part of the country will take place this Sunday.

I will take Charley to Abidjan on Saturday so he can fly out that night. I will be picking up a new staff person to bring back up country.
Please continue to pray for the political situation. Also, pray for Charley's and my travels to Abidjan this weekend. Pray for safety and that we won't run into any problems along the way.

In Christ,
Traci Epps

P.S.
Dear Friends and Family,
I just wanted to send a quick update and prayer item. I did get some good news today. I don't have to be the one to drive to Abidjan and be in charge. Mike Cousineau is going to drive Charley, me, and another man down to Abidjan. He will also take Charley to the airport and pick up a new staff person. This is a great relief to me. I was a bit concerned about driving to Abidjan since no one would be there to help. The usual people who help are all up country. Please pray for us as we travel this weekend. Also, pray the Charley will have a safe trip back and not run into any problems along the way.

Thanks!
Traci