About six months after the first Project Africa session in Zambia, I began hearing stories of what was happening in a rural congregation pastored by Rev. Peter Chipeta. Several of his fellow pastors had told me how things have changed within this congregation. Many pastors had previously ministered to this congregation with little impact and little growth. Even during the beginning of Rev. Chipeta's time within the congregation, things did not really change much; however, after the material from Project Africa was taught and implemented, things began to change.

The congregation took hold of the Action Plan prepared by the Pastor and did much more. The pastor's house was expanded and finished. A new church building was built; the first brick church with iron sheets that this congregation has ever had. Previously, walls were of packed clay with a grass thatch roof. While visiting, it was evident the church members were excited and proud of this new building.

Despite the fact that in general churches in Zambia experience very slow growth during a church building campaign, Rev. Chipeta's church grew from a long-time membership of 150 members to 250. Giving also increased 50% over the previous year during the harvest season. However, during the traditional "hunger" months, there was a smaller, but still significant increase of 10% over the same time the previous year.

While the building of the church structure within one year may be a very significant accomplishment for a rather small rural congregation, the real success lies in how this goal was accomplished. The church members were organized around a common vision. With the establishment of a common goal owned by all and with a good plan and leadership to accomplish the goal, a tremendous amount was accomplished.

Project Africa has also really challenged the pastor himself. Rev. Chipeta informed me that afer Theological College, he figured that he knew all he needed and along with his Bible was ready to expand the Kingdom of God. He felt no need to learn any more. Project Africa has changed that. He began to see the pysical side of people's suffering and developed a desire to not only help people spiritually, but also physically. He has now become a pivotal person in beginning and establishing new community development programs. He leads by example. His emerging compassion has become apparent and the leadership of his church (Church of Central Africa Presbyterian Synod of Zambia) is now trying to look for further educational opportunities and funding for him to contue learning in the area of Community Development.

In conclusion, I would just like to use the words of Rev. Chipeta himself but apply them to a much broader target: "With the help of Project Africa, the congregation is being transformed!"