3. Victoria & Albert Return to their Country of Passport

For some folk returning to their country of passport it is a traumatic event and questions rage of "why" or "Lord, not yet, surely?", and other like questions. But for V&A, it was a very different experience. After a period of discernment, it was obvious that for whatever reason, their time in Egypt had drawn to a close. Was everything finished in their eyes? Well, "no", and yet there was a Divine peace that they experienced leaving them in no doubt that it was time to move on, God had other plans for them and in trust and obedience, they left Egypt with heavy hearts and yet with the clarity and certainty that only God can give. They were flying into a new life. Egypt had changed both of them - there is no doubt about that - and even 7 years on, they are still changed people!

In the first 12 months, there was a lot of healing that needed to be done - there were physical things but also healing from burnout and exhaustion. During these 12 months, Albert also completed his Degree at uni and subsequently graduated in full regalia. What a proud and memorable day that was! Well done Albert.

At the 10 month marker and with the full blessing of their Pastor and Mentor, they returned to Egypt for 2 months. They loved reconnecting with the many friends who had been such an inspiration to them, to those who had been true and valued friends and to revisit some of the ministries and projects which had held such special places in their lives. When they left, both of them knew it would not be the last time they set foot in these Ancient of Lands.

Perfectly timed with this trip they discovered that 2 special friends from their homeland had already planned to visit the Middle East at that same time and finally, after much chatting and many discussions and looking at diaries, flights and other commitments, a plan was agreed upon. Their friends arrived at around the same time as V&A but to allow a bit of space and time, they took themselves on a 5-day Nile Cruise; and immediately afterwards, the 4 of them stayed in the one place and explored that City of Old together - one couple renewing old haunts and the other couple tagging on for the ride of a lifetime of memories. All 4 had a wonderful time, exploring the environs of Cairo and  also going further afield. They were astonished at how much they packed into each day. It was also a time of catching up with friends of old and graciously their friends were always included, whether it was eating out or being invited into their homes.