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Comparing how ministry is done in western verses non-western cultures is fascinating. One analogy that is out there is the example of contrasting the journey of a motorboat with that of a sailboat.
The motorboat is representative of the prevailing western approach to ministry and development objectives. Once the destination (aka objective) is determined, plans are laid and preparations are made for the journey. The most efficient route is planned and enough provisions are packed to last the entire journey. Everything needed to achieve success is on the boat and only the most severe unforeseen obstacles will keep the boat from reaching its destination on time.
The sailboat is representative of the non-western approach. Once the destination is determined plans are also made, but the length of the journey is not always known because it is contingent upon the wind and the seas. The same journey in identical conditions for the sailboat may take much longer and the course taken much less direct to accommodate for the direction of the wind and the condition of the seas. Additional stops may also be required along the way to resupply, or find safe harbor from a storm that a motorized boat could simply power through. (This concept is taken from The Beauty of Partnership, by Alex Araujo with our own adaptation.)
In the western approach, we bring everything we need to make a project or program a success, with the resources we have available and the organization that is engrained in our culture. We can simply make things happen. As a result, we place a higher value on results and effective use of resources. In non-western cultures, approaching a project or program can be much more nuanced, taking advantage of favorable conditions but also waiting long periods of time to overcome unforeseen obstacles, lack of resources or a change in community dynamics or priorities. Due to the lack of control, more emphasis is placed on relationships and trusting in God while success is more often measured in faithfulness.
At E4 Project, one of our core values as an organization is that the ministries we partner with are indigenous owned and led, meaning that we embrace the journey of the sailboat.
At E4 Project, one of our core values as an organization is that the ministries we partner with are indigenous owned and led, meaning that we embrace the journey of the sailboat. Rather than overpowering their way of doing things with our own capabilities, we collaborate as equals offering our support while respecting their culture and leadership. We strive to listen first, both to God and our partners and then move when the conditions are favorable. We like to think that we climb aboard their sailboat and bring with us an outboard motor and some supplies to make their journey a bit easier, equipping them to overcome some of the adversity they will face, but ultimately trusting in the Lord to guide our course.
2014 and 2015 had their share of adversity for the ministries in Gabon in particular. So far this year the winds seem to be much more favorable and we are excited to see where they take us. HIV Hope has launched a new program to help children with HIV. Hope House is now in proper housing and has the provisions to meet the needs of the children. The sewing ministry for widows is now largely led by the women it serves, and is called “Hands of Grace.” It is expanding to include all disadvantaged women and will teach other skills in addition to sewing. There is a clear vision for the land at PK27 emerging, and the church is unifying to make big strides in the development of the first medical building. This has only been possible through the close collaboration between E4 Project and our ministry partners, church leadership, donors and prayer. We cannot continue this important work without your support. Thank you for partnering with us as we move forward in 2016.
  
Please pray that these favorable conditions continue, as we strive to deepen our collaboration and support of the church's efforts to serve the poor and needy and share the love of Christ.
Please consider making a donation to E4 Project today.
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