On July 4th, the Womacks received notice that the government of South Africa, after 2 years and 9 months, had denied their request for a special waiver that would allow them to apply for their 3-year visas in country. They were also given only 10 days to settle their affairs and leave South Africa. They left for the States on July 13th to apply for their visas and to get their children’s passports renewed. Their visa appointment was scheduled for August 11th. While in the States they were ministering in churches and nursing homes, with Matt preaching and the family presenting music. As a result of this unexpected turn of events, they will have to cut short their planned furlough in 2026. Their ministry, Solid Rock Baptist Church in South Africa, was doing well in their absence. Members were stepping up to fill roles and responsibilities with great faithfulness and unity. This encouraged them greatly. On Facebook, they reported returning to the field the end of September.