A New Work Arrangement

Good morning from Malawi,

This morning at Viyelle Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) here in Mzuzu we heard about the importance of having a servant’s heart. It seemed to be God’s timing as this letter was on the to-do list for today, and our daily prayer is to have a servant’s heart.

We are excited to share some changes in Rochelle’s position. This may be a good opportunity to remember some steps of how God has brought us to work here in Malawi. In 2008 we started our partnership, commitment, and call to God’s mission through participation on short-term teams working with CCAP church in northern Malawi. Our family’s partnership with Mzuzu University goes back to 2011–2012, when Rochelle began a research investigation as part of her Ph.D. work, gathering data around our present neighborhood in Mzuzu. During this period Tyler also worked with the University of Livingstonia. We moved to Malawi at the end of 2012 to serve permanently at the invitation of Mzuzu University and the CCAP Church. We became Presbyterian World Mission long-term volunteers in 2013, which allowed us to participate in the PC(USA)’s medical insurance. Then in 2015 Presbyterian World Mission changed our appointment to full-time mission co-workers, in partnership with the CCAP and in continuing collaboration with Mzuzu University. Mzuzu University has been contributing to Rochelle’s salary since 2012; this salary has been deducted from what we would have received from the PC(USA).

The CCAP proposed a new work arrangement, but Rochelle wanted to continue the work she loves with Mzuzu University. So Rochelle has decided to exit the PC(USA) mission co-worker arrangement (effective August 2016). Rochelle will continue to be in contact with the CCAP Development Department, the CCAP University of Livingstonia, and CCAP Church and Society, and more. Rochelle’s day-to-day ministry will not change. She has students, colleagues and work that she loves. It is wonderful to be transitioning on a high note! Rochelle feels so thankful for her time with Presbyterian World Mission and the worldwide ministries being served by their many hands.

We ask that you remain involved though change, even on paper, is sometimes scary. If you are wondering what this means for your financial support for our family, we would love for you to continue supporting Tyler as he continues to train future pastors of the CCAP through his ministry at the University of Livingstonia Faculty of Theology. Tyler, along with colleagues from Presbyterian World Mission, must raise $83,000 per year for his position. This covers his salary, retirement benefits, family medical insurance, portions of Mphatso’s education, travel to and from the U.S., and other sending and support costs, such as security monitoring and emergency evacuation costs, ongoing training, and support in interpreting the ministry to our U.S. partners.

We want to be open and transparent with you as a partner, and though our daily work here in Malawi is not changing, we are excited about this healthy development. Thank you so much for your support, prayers, and encouragement.

Grace and Peace,

Tyler, Rochelle and Mphatso Holm