In 1983 we joined one other couple in Niger when we were appointed with titles Agriculture Evangelist & Church/Home. Shortly after we arrived the Williams took their much needed furlough, leaving us – the new missionaries on the field - all by ourselves! Much has changed since, but not the basic task of winning people to Christ and planting His church. As time passed, our work in Niger became more specifically with the Zerma people. Many seeds have been planted both physically and spiritually. Some have accepted Christ as Savior but many more have not. Overwhelming need still remains.

We are finding that much of the long process that brought us to Niger is the same type process that will end with us at retirement – or maybe we should say a change of location. It took over 10 years after our decision feeling God’s call to missions before we arrived in Niger. During that time we had much affirmation that brought us here. Although it has not taken 10 years in preparation to leave, we have felt much affirmation and conviction along with confirmation which is leading us back to the USA. We have mixed emotions of sadness and gladness and much in between.

Although many people have already heard of our upcoming Stateside Assignment (STAS) that will end with retirement from the International Mission Board (IMB), this will be news to some, and to others maybe just more information.

Our final STAS should begin March 2011 ending in retirement June 2012 when the elder one of us will be near 63 years old! That will total over 29 years with the IMB, almost 26 in Niger. It has been a privilege, a joy, and a challenge.

We have seen several hundred people (volunteers, missionaries, friends) come to Niger to minister, some long-term and some for only a week or so. We will leave about 30 colleagues here in Niger, some working with the Zerma and others with several other people groups. It is exciting to think of the possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead for the work that even pass the boundaries of Niger.

Our hopes are after 14 months of STAS is to continue in missions, only this time on the other side of the ocean. God has been so very good to us and has blessed us with many friends that have loved and supported us through these years. We are hoping/planning to visit many of the volunteers, churches and
friends we have made through the years as well as visiting family as we travel all over the USA, in our camper! We covet your prayers as we continue on the remainder of this journey.

This has been a very difficult to write. We've decided one letter cannot be written to our satisfaction for everyone so please send us a note if you would like to hear more. We count it a blessing and joy to have made many friends during our time with the IMB. Our friendship, love, concern and prayers will not end with our STAS and retirement!

Still serving together,

dntbolls@iname.com

This is our mailing address:
Donald & Teresa Bolls

Web Site: www.zermateam.org