I can't believe we have been gone a week already. Saturday we visited a group of ex-prisoners that have an amazing program to help the "mighty men of God" (a new name they call themselves instead of prisoners) transition to life on the outside. A former inmate started the program and it has been very successful. They help men and women learn skills and become responsible citizens. They have a plant project where they grow plants from seeds and plant them around the city, at schools and other public places. They have a Celebrate Recovery program and we heard some testimonies of lives that are changing and relationships being restored!
Stanley and Gladys took us around Mombasa town and coast for some sight seeing. It was great to spend time with them. We enjoyed coconut milk from it's source - yum!
In the afternoon we visited a church that has a CR group for women. It is very difficult for people to open up and talk about their lives with others so they have been using an "Open Share" format for a few weeks and will be starting a Step Study group soon. I was vulnerable and shared some things with them and it really encouraged them to open up and at the end of our time together one woman shared a big secret for the first time. It really broke the ice and bonded the group at a whole new level.
Today we visited Jesus Mission Center Church in Likoni. It was the second time I was there and we were warmly welcomed by their senior pastor, Rev. Bigvae Mzae. The worship was awesome with lots of singing and dancing. I couldn't quite talk Michael into joining them in their dancing but it was a wonderful experience. I "preached" for about an hour, giving my testimony and talking about CR. So many people came forward for prayer. God is preparing their hearts to begin CR next year. God is good.
The weather was very nice in Mombasa, not too hot for a change. We flew back to Nairobi this afternoon and tomorrow morning we fly to Kitale to begin our ministry there. I can't wait to see my kids and many friends there. Michael will begin his work with ICM tomoorw.
Pray for travel mercies as we fly to Kitale and wonderful reunions. Michael will get to meet our 4 God children tomorrow and I am very excited about that.
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How exciting to witness first hands the fruits of your labors, and a peek at what God is doing with your service. It is truly amazing. Thank you for sharing the stories. It is also good to hear of our friends in Mombasa. Great people, a great city.
ReplyDeleteI am praying for you and know that the trip to Kitale will again be a very special time of ministry. Fly safe, work hard, and enjoy those precious gifts from God. Blessing and greetings from me, too.
Wow, CR IS growing in Mombasa region too - thanks God! I was especially glad to hear about the women's group you visited. Thank you for being transparent and vulnerable with them. Jana, you are our pioneer and ambassador!
ReplyDeleteI do remember the wonderful dancing children when we were at Pastor Bigvae's congregation. I am still praying for the work that his wife is doing in the remote country villages.
"Pray in the Spirit at all times and on every occasion. Stay alert and be persistent in your prayers for all believers everywhere." Ephesians 6:18
May you have a wonderful reunion with your kiddos. They each have such an unique personality, none more than Mr. Personality Plus, Augustine! Michael, you will fall in love with them and their quiet reserve will melt away.
We will remember that there is much healing to take place in the region you will be in, and so we continue to pray that CR takes off like a wildfire!
Warm "Jambos" to all of our friends. We are with you in Spirit!!
Well I'll try this again...
ReplyDeleteI am happy to hear that all is going well and that you are reconnecting with Stanley and his wife. What a gift it is to be able to be "shown around" by friends! We are very excited to see the pictures when you arrive at Kitale and visit with "The Kids" at PDA - I really want to see Michael's face.
Michael, I'm sure you know this but "be prepared" for your heart to be invaded by 4 of the sweetest kids you will ever have the opportunity to meet and connect with. Know that you will be leaving just a part of you behind and that God has you right where He wants you in this journey.
I am sure that "the flame" has been lit and now you get to see how much of the fire has spread thru the CR program to churches and communities.
We are praying for continuing health on your journey and for all those you are going to come in contact with, and for your travel to be safe and productive.
God bless you both as you continue to carry God's message to a country who needs His Word so desparately.
JB