What a meaningful personal time of worship we had this morning which Darcie led. She gave an overview of our VBS theme that we will be sharing with the kids on Monday, the Ultimate Gift.
We arrived at our project and graciously were given an overview of the Child Survival Program (CSP) and then were led to a room with mothers and babies of all ages, the room was approximately 12×16 with about 15-20 moms and their babies, and our team.
After an initial awkwardness, hearts were opened. We spent such great time playing and loving on the babies. Kimberly brought bubbles, which the children were in awe of. Kelsea jumped in picking up the babies and holding as many babies as she could. Diana enthralled the kids with her camera.
During this wonderful morning we broke into a few groups – Darcie, Elaine, Joy and Kimberly met with the CSP moms. The four of us were able to share a little with the moms regarding their child’s development, how as moms we need to take care of our physical, emotional and spiritual needs, along with how to ‘train up our children in the way they should go’. For those of us that were here before, we were encouraged to see the growth of mother-child interaction since our last visit. We also were excited to hear the reports that of the 50 moms that have been through the program, 15 of them have come to know the Lord as their Savior.
Another group of 3 including Jay, Loren and Cathy went to meet with the pastors, elders and other staff members for a time of “Experiential Sharing on Spiritual Leadership”. We were able to share the mission and vision of Tri-Lakes Chapel and hear about the mission and vision of Mehale Ketema Kale Hiwot Church. They have passion and a strong vision for the ministry God has placed before them. We each discussed challenges, cultural differences, experiences and methods of evangelism & outreach within our communities. What a great time of sharing together and an encouraging time of partnership growth.
The remaining 7 ladies were able to continue to stay and love on the babies!
The 3 girls in our group had such an incredible time as they bonded not only with the babies but also with a few other children from the program that came in throughout the day.
After a lunch gathering with some staff members, we came back to the church and split into groups to do home visits. We visited 4 children that are sponsored by those of us on the team. Today we got to visit one of Loren’s, Darcie’s, Jay & Kimberly’s children as well as Cathy’s child. These visits are impactful and full of emotion. Each of these stories are special, precious and personal.


What a full day. As we go throughout the day, you see everyone enjoying all that we are doing, taking in each moment. At the end of the day, we close with a much needed ‘highs and lows’ time, a time for us all to process. There is so much to process and you realize at the end how very full the day has been, how much your mind has had to take in, and how much your heart has been touched, or sweetly broken, or stirred. Each evening ends with tears of joy, tears of inspiration, and tears of sadness as we discuss all that God is doing.
As you pray for us, pray that we will press on, that our hearts and eyes will continue to be open to all that we see, and that lives will be impacted.
Tomorrow we have another full day. We will hear from the pastors/evangelists their testimonies, we will have more home visits and then in the afternoon we will be doing street evangelism with one of their sister churches in the countryside.
We are so thankful for you all, those who encourage us and pray for us on the other side of the world!