February 2, 2010, Tony Ikenberry wrote:

Growing up I always heard people say, you don't discuss politics or religion with folks.  I am wondering why. I talk with many people here and faith is the top subject that I talk of, and what I have heard and seen here I am wondering if it’s true with us Christians too. Here most people are Muslim. When I ask the question, what does that mean, most just stare at me. I ask why they are Muslim, and the normal response is because my father was. If I ask what it means and do they believe it in their minds and feel it in their hearts, when you really talk with them for awhile you can see they are not sure. If you ask them why they walk around in their caps always and go to the mosque and pray, it’s because that's what you’re told is good and people will think you’re good. Most have no idea what their holidays mean. Many do have the excuse here that they can't read and only know what they were told by their elders and you can't question your elders, and that's what everyone else says also, so how can it be wrong. Are we the same way? We can all read, but do we? How many of us know what the Bible says well? Do we say we’re Christian because that's what our parents were or our friends are? Do you really believe it in your mind and feel it in your heart? Do we go to church because it makes us look like good outstanding people who can be trusted? I know many of you that will be receiving this are good believing, heartfelt followers of Christ, but I would be interested in how many non-Christian friends you have and how often the subject of religion is discussed. I would really like to hear some stories I could share with people here on how many Christians would answer the same questions. I have asked the women and some of the older children to ponder on the question what it means to be a Christian and I will put some of them on the spot at our Bible studies and worship services and see if Christ has reached into their hearts.
   The death of our friend Kabir has also brought up many questions, more from me than the others here. To you and I it is hard to believe things like this happen and how people get to this way of thinking. Do you become radicalized and believe God gives you the authority to carry out His judgment and punishment, how can people think like that.
    We have fallen behind the last several months and I am spending many sleepless nights praying and wondering how to make things work. Some days I feel as if I have left earth and am visiting another planet, I really struggle with the ways of poverty and what it makes people become. If you don't have a deep faith many become almost as animals, it is very saddening. We are in need if you can reach out and help us to continue in His faith and love, Tony