Touchdown

Well we've landed safely and gone to our respective homes for some much needed sleep. We can't wait to talk to you guys about all that's transpired during this time. Jesus is awesome. Bwana Asafiwe. Amen.

The Final Countdown

[Sorry, this post is late - we were supposed to have this up at the Kenyan airport but the internet was flaky there and we were pressed for time, and they wanted to charge us 8 pounds in London.]

Best. Trip. Ever.

So we're sitting on the floor here in the Kenyan airport waiting for our flight. We will do our final debriefing and try desperately to process all that Christ has done on this trip. Good luck, us.

The day started off by doing final packing, weighting luggage, and doing stupid-checks in the ENT house. After that we loaded the vans up and headed to the slums of Lunga Lunga to go to church. We got a bit lost on the way and arrived 30 minutes late to church (the one thing Kenyans do on time), so we had to scratch the song we'd prepared to sing. And the peasants rejoiced. The place was rockin' when we walked in and kept rolling for the next three hours.

Paul spoke out of 2 Timothy about not having a spirit of fear. This was a message the church was more than ready to receive due in part to a tragedy that hit Festus (one of their pastors). About a month ago, while he was in the church praying, his house burned to the ground with his wife and child inside. Grief is great with this family and with us for them. However, he was there worshipping his heart out and serving the Lord. Truly a Job-like spirit.

After service, we took polaroids of all the families and stuck them on pieces of paper with encouraging scripture on them. Then everyone sat around in the church (a room about 20' x 20'), ate African Donuts, drank Fanta, and just talked. They made sure to spread out all us Mzungus to make sure everyone got a full experience. The church in Lunga Lunga sends its greetings to all of you and The Village Church as well.

The slums were probably the most counter-cultural environment we've been in. There was a single road with families/shops packed in on either side. The mucky road wound about with trash littering the ground. It also had a very distinct smell. And I pray desperately that Christ will NOT remove these sights and sounds from our head. This is how these people live and my fear is that we will retreat to our warm showers and clean floors thinking, “Well I'm glad THAT'S over.” Instead, I would rather us look for the shoes we've had to throw away, think about our brothers and sisters over here, and hit our knees for them. They were amazingly welcoming and were poor in money only; but rich in everything else.

We left Lunga Lunga and finally got to try Java House in Nairobi. This place was as good as advertised. Good food, great conversation. Recommendation: try the minty-pineapple drink. From there we walked outside and into the Masai Market to do our final shopping. Let me tell you, our girls are awesome at bartering. This was no Black Rhino incident. They were trading pens, power bars (for athletes!), hair bands, wet naps, and Transform bracelets. We even had one final group effort to fend off a pack of wild wolves (vendors) and get the price we wanted. [Thanks guys!]

Now we're in the airport. We got here early so the drivers could get back to Kijabe before dark. We've repacked out bags with our new goods and “showered” with wet naps. Ahead of us lies the monumental task of grasping everything. Christ, help us. Sear these images, moments, people, and thoughts into our brains. Allow it keep pushing us deeper into you and deeper into love. There's so much more on my heart, but as is true for all of us, it will have to wait for post-trip conversations.

In that light, we are looking forward to seeing you soon and thank your for partnering with us on this trip in prayer and other ways. There are many ways to continue serving once we get back. Invite a team member over for dinner. Email. Ask questions. Continue to Pray. Re-entry can be a very difficult time as we've been in a different culture for almost two weeks. There will be several conflicting emotions as the Lord works on our heats.

Please pray for the team. Several of us left in obedience with precarious situations in work and family. Pray for directions and processing. Pray for Festus and the church family in Lunga Lunga. Pray that God would call us to continual mission living (both overseas and at home). Pray for safety in travel as we come back. Pray for lives that will continue to be challenged by all that's been revealed to us. Pray for the Mendonsa's. We get to leave here and go back home to family/friends and they continue to be half a world away. Now don't be mistaken, this is where true life is for them, but it is ALWAYS great to be connected to loved ones. Pray for their ministry, all God is doing with them, and how you might play a part.

Thank you so much for everything, more to come, so...

Best. Trip. Ever. (So Far)

-Daniel

Reminder Flight Numbers:

Nairobi to London – BA 64

London to Dallas – BA 193

What we are looking forward to back in the states:

DJ – Courtney

Greg – Piano

Beth – Own Toilet

Leah – Milk From a Cow

Elaine – Kiddos

Michael – Working Shower

Hannah – Email/Connectivity

Ginny – Dog

Kristen – Own Bed

Paul – Susan Boyle

Daniel – Green Boogers

*Muah*

Hello everyone! I preface this blog entry (sadly, one of our last) by saying we love you all and are so grateful for your support! Despite the physical distance between Kenya and America, every one of you has remained in our thoughts, prayers, and hearts!

Well, today was our last full day in Africa...so difficult to believe! I'm sure I speak for the group when I say that our time here has absolutely flown by! Every moment has been such a joy and blessing and our hearts are heavy tonight with the thought of leaving. Fortunately, today was our recreation day in Nairobi so we still had a lot to look forward to and experience!

The morning started out, per usual, with lots of love and laughter! An absolutely delicious breakfast (french toast and leftover homemade pizza from the night before) was provided by breakfast team #3 (Team "C Your Way Out of the Kitchen") which included members Ginny, Hannah, Greg, and Daniel. And then miracles of miracles: our ride(s) appeared 30 minutes before schedule!! So, we hopped in the vans and, after swinging by the Mendonsa's, we were off to Nairobi!

After another fantastic drive through African countryside, we arrived in Nairobi and successfully exchanged the remainder of our American money (in what seemed like a shady back ally...but no worries, it was totally legit) in Kenyan currency . Thank you, DJ!! I wouldn't have known the first thing about getting any of that done! Our second stop was the Kazuri Bead Factory, a factory that employs single mothers and teaches them the art of handmade bead and pottery creation. All proceeds support these mothers and their families, which is amazing, and the beads/pottery were so beautiful!

Next stop: the giraffe center in Karen, Kenya! Such a fun experience...especially for everyone who got kissed by a giraffe! See below for pictures of your loved ones getting a little lip service, Kenya style!

We were planning on eating a late lunch at Java House (apparently THE place to be according to all the locals!), but had to eat elsewhere due to infamous Nairobi traffic. Between a sandwich shop and a Mexican restaurant, where do you think 16 Texans chose to dine? I'm happy to report that while the food wasn't as good as the tex-mex in Dallas, it was still enjoyable! ...as was observing the taco-eating contest that ensued at one of the tables!

After stopping by the Nairobi grocery store (and purchasing loads of Kenyan coffee and tea!), we headed back to the house in Kijabe, which we've all begun to fondly refer to as "home." It was our last evening to sit outside and take in the breathtaking view so we pulled out all the stops--including the indoor couch from the living area! No better way to spend an evening--and how we will miss it!

Bob and Julie (along with Ty and Mande Clark, who arrived in Kenya this afternoon) then came over and joined us for our nightly debriefing session. They shared their individual and joint testimonies with us, and we were so blessed by their presence and participation! The Mendonsa family has grown very near and dear to all of our hearts and we ask that you keep them in your prayers! We all then enjoyed a late dinner together and have now begun the sad task of packing.

Tomorrow morning we leave Kijabe behind and will head into Nairobi for the last time. We will be attending church service at the slum church of Lunga Lunga, an experience we are all looking forward to! After, we will eat a late lunch and then be dropped off at the airport...I still can't believe our trip has come so close to the end! Please pray for a safe and blessed last day in Kenya as well as a safe and uneventful flight back to America! Please, also, continue to pray for both the Kenyan people and the Mendonsa family. Such wonderful things are happening here and we all so blessed to have experienced it first hand! We love you all and will see you soon!

-Leah

Rain Down

We started our day with saying our Goodbyes at Cure hospital. It was already our last day in the facility. We shared devotionals in the morning and made a round through the different departments. We share the general opinion of the staff that our stay was way too short. We thank everybody for their kindness and support. We were blessed to work with such incredible and godly people.

Our next stop was the Feeding Program started by Julie Mendonsa and Esther. Together with Esther she identified 36 children that walk 1 hour daily to school without breakfast and lunch because the family was not able to provide. For a couple years God has used the Mendonsa's and a group from The Village to provide food for those families twice a week.

We met Esther at the school around noon and she started to give out the food which included bags of beans, maize and cabbage. The kids would patiently wait until their number got called out to grab their bags and wait again. We were all surprised by the outstanding good behavior of the children. They would not fight over the food or try to take more than they are allowed to. Elaine saw a little girl picking up all the leaves of the cabbage after all the food was separated and thought for a moment that she was cleaning up, but the girl put the leaves in her bag with the rest of her food to take home. The need is big.

We gave the kids little bags with crayons, bookmarks, coloring-pages and markers as small gifts. Daniel and DJ in the meanwhile started playing “Wildebeast” with the other kids on the school campus. Both guys would stand still and wait until all the kids had gathered around them and then would start chasing after them. The children and everybody else had a blast.

Our following mission was visiting the IDP Camp. We arrived in the camp through a road that divides the camp in the middle. The picture we saw was of children and adults scattered among tents to the left and right. These tents were covered in dust and dirt with holes or partially ripped. One of the first thoughts that was said out loud was that no one of us could imagine how to live here. We were even more amazed by what God had done in the peoples hearts and how He had worked in this place. In great wisdom, they have managed to install a government system in the camp that includes a health department, security, educational system and a judicial system.

We started out by handing candy to the kids. It took only minutes to gather them around us and only another minute and it started raining! Finally! We have been praying for rain in the last couple days over and over and here it was! The Lord is good! We found cover in a nearby tent which is used for schooling and community activities. We kept playing with the children, entertaining them with pipe-cleaners and loving on them until the rain stopped and we were able to go back outside.

Paul and Pastor Peter had the opportunity to share the gospel with the adults while we would play, sing, jump, run or just simply hold and love on the kids. When asked if we had brought them anything, Paul answered that we did not bring any food. But we had brought encouragement and a word from God. The camp elder responded by saying that bread could be eaten and then forgotten, but a word from God would stay.

Before we left we were able to arrange that the camp will be provided with some Bibles, which was their request. The camp started a spontaneous praise and worship ceremony after receiving this news. As we left the camp, we listened to the drums and the people worshiping our GOD and King. How awesome that they were praising HIS mighty work in place so full of poverty.

Things to Pray For:

Please pray for the people that are still struggling with what they experienced in the post-election violence, that are tortured by memories at night that makes them cry and scream out in desperation. Please pray for continued wisdom and provision in the IDP-Camps and strength through Gods mighty hand. Please pray that the families in the feeding program would continue to be provided for and that they will eventually have the ability to provide for themselves.

-Hannah

Nipe moyo safi, Bwana

(Give me a clean heart, Lord)

What a wonderful morning! We had running water to take showers! All of us were smelling and feeling much better today as we made our way up to CURE. Thank You Father for the big blessings, and the small ones such as water!

Today marked our second to last day working at CURE, and I am already thinking about how much I will miss the people that I have met here. The joy that all of us have felt working at CURE was summed up perfectly when a beautiful little Kenyan girl came running up at full speed to greet Paul with a hug this morning as we entered the lobby of the hospital. We had the privilege of worshipping with the prosthetics/orthotics people in their workshop. I have to say, one of my favorite things here in Kenya is listening to the people sing praises to God in their language, and we got to hear them sing in Swahili this morning. The prosthetics/orthotics people (artists as I would call them) showed us the amazing work that they are doing to create prostheses for patients with a new knee joint that they actually learned about from Letourneau University in Texas! Man, it's a small world! A couple of hours after that, Elaine and I got to work with a patient who received one of these prostheses just today, and started the process of learning to walk with his new leg including helping him navigate stairs. I have to hand it to the “artists,” they did incredible work on that patient's leg, and I could see the joy in his face in knowing that he would be able to walk again.

The amazing gifts and talents of our team did not go unused today, as Dan and Greg worked their tails off to repair and actually rebuild the computers at the hospital. This is no small feat, I might add, with a temperamental and slow internet. Two of our nurses, Beth and Leah, spent some time this morning discussing PALS with the nurses at CURE, and then assisted Dr. Bob in casting a young girl with a femur fracture. There was plaster everywhere! Leah got to scrub in like a superstar on a C1-2 [spinal] fusion surgery with Dr. Mead, and Michael, being the stud that he is, was able to scrub in on a bilateral (both feet) clubfoot surgery with Dr. “Smooth Operator” Mendonsa, and also help put the casts on afterwards.

DJ, God bless his soul, did data entry from files dating back to 2008. DJ, you truly have a servant's heart! One bonus that came out of this was coming across a patient's name which the guys have decided is the Best. Name. Evar. … Killforce … It is now a race to see who will be the first to use it on his child.

Kristen, Elaine, and Hannah worked with Francesca (an absolute angel who works at CURE) in the “Pray Loom” (How Kenyans pronounce “play room”). They colored pictures, made bracelets, played games, and Francesca gave the gospel to a child with the evangicube. Every time I walked by the play room this morning, I could see the absolute joy on the faces of the children, and the workers, however..., there was one little girl who was very afraid of mzungus. Surprisingly, the guys (Michael, Greg, and Dan) were the ones who won her over.

At lunch Julie Mendonsa took us all to the Dukas (the Galleria of Kijabe), so that we could find some fun gifts for all of our beloved friends and family! Thenya was the woman who owned the shop that we were at, and she was so gracious to us. After we left the shop, Thenya thanked Julie profusely with tears because we had provided her with some business today. It was so awesome to be able to bless her in that way, and hopefully help provide for her and her family.

In the afternoon, most of the girls worked in the warehouse organizing all of the scrubs and tape. In the end, they were completely covered in dust, but had made a significant dent in the organization of the warehouse! Michael, Dan, and Greg had the privilege of helping out with the ward fellowship time, and Dan and Greg were the keynote speakers today. Greg gave his amazing testimony, while Dan preached to the parents and kids on the 5 core Preschool values taught at Kids Village back home at church!

The girls finished the afternoon off with attending Emily's basketball game. Emily is definitely becoming the female version of Dirk Nowitzki, and played like a champ! Will had a small run-in with the soccer ball and another soccer player. He ended up with a very manly looking shiner on his right eye. You should see the other guy!!

The evening came to a close with Paul telling inspiring and funny stories of his high school years up to the present, while Michael and DJ challenged all of us with such serious questions as “what is your least favorite food due to smell” and “what is your most embarrassing moment.” Dinner time has become some of the sweetest moments of this group as we sit around the table, tell stories, and laugh. Dan and Greg then both gave their testimonies. We have amazing men on our team!

“He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, to gain what he cannot lose.” - Elliot
I feel that God is definitely calling us to give up all these silly things that we think we can't live without, to gain more of Him. The Kenyans that we have met over this past week have been such an amazing example of what this looks like in real life. May the Lord help us to mimic them in this way!

Things to Pray for:
Pray for us as we go to the IDP camp tomorrow that we will be able to minister to the people there and encourage them the way that God wants us to. Pray that we will be encouraging and helpful to the people of CURE on our last morning there, and pray for our hearts as we say goodbye to the friends that we have made in the hospital. Pray for safe travels for us as we return to Texas, and for Ty and Mande Clark as they fly from Texas to Nairobi on Saturday. Pray that God would provide rain here in Kenya and provide food and provision for these amazing people.

-Ginny
Jeremiah 29:11

A Straight Flush

My hands fumbled the handle of the bucket as I sprinted up the stairs. Water spilling in the halls as I scurried into the room to do what had to be done. At long last this moment was upon us, we had been without water for two days and this was the first opportunity many of us had to extinguish the inner grumblings of our stomachs. This water would give us the ability to flush the toilet and avoid the “long drop” toilets that wait for us outside should we fail. I will close this opening story with one word...”success.”

We lost water in the Kijabe area a couple of days ago due to a broken pipe that provided water to the whole compound including the hospital. It has truly been a bonding experience considering sanitation and bathroom etiquette basically went out the window, and we settled for nods over handshakes and keeping a good distance in case our deodorant wore off. During the shortage, the staff at Cure were gracious enough to provide us with a 200 liter container of water for three of our bathrooms should we feel the need to shower or flush a toilet. (As of this post, most of the compound appears to have water again and the showers will be going continually for the next 24 hours.)

Stories aside, today was a day full of blessings for the whole team. We began with a day with a chapel service at CURE where Panda Paul again brought the word strongly. He talked about peace with God and the peace *of* God. So good! The day at CURE also consisted of DJ helping log charts in the business office, Greg and Daniel battling viruses of the computer variety in the administration area while building an additional computer for the hospital to use, Paul supervising his flock and working with children, the nurses (Elaine, Beth, Hannah, Kristen, and Leah) doing an outpatient clinic with Dr. Bob, Ginny in the Physiotherapy department and myself in the warehouse trying to sort out the supply situation.

We worked until around 1pm and then ventured down into the valley to check out the site for Naomi's Village (the Mendonsa's future orphanage). I must comment at this point on Dr. Bob's driving. Picture, if you will, an orthopedic surgeon at the wheel of a toyota SUV in the middle of a Baja race that consisted of nothing but jagged rocks and mountains. It is truly an adventure to ride with Bob as the smile on his face while we bounce around keeps us all laughing while the contents of our stomachs roll around with us in the car. He does listen to Chris Tomlin and David Crowder on the iPod while we do this, so at least we have some soothing sounds to accompany the occasional screams and laughter.

When we got to the five acre plot where Naomi's Village will be, you could smell the fresh air, and as Elaine so eloquently put it, “a sweet perfume of The Spirit of the Lord.” Paul suggested we each walk around the area and pray over the future of the orphanage and ask for God to bless the land, the staff, the children and all those involved in this project. It was amazing to look at this plot of land and imagine over one hundred children receiving God's grace and love through his workers in this area. This land will be where the nine thousand square foot building will stand and house both caretakers and children...such a beautiful thought. I took this time to reflect on how God had brought forth this desire in the hearts of Bob and Julie, taken them from their home in Texas and brought them here to this five acre plot in the middle of Kenya where the orphanage will stand. All of the people involved in this project, many of whom are working for nothing, see God's desire for this place, and it has all been so beautifully orchestrated by the Lord. I am so thankful that our team had the opportunity to come to this place and pray together and ask God to continue to bless Naomi's Village and all that He has in store for its future.

Please pray for God to continue to work in the hearts of those involved in Naomi's Village. Our desire is to see it not only bless the children within it, but to bless all those involved in this plan. We thank God for how far we have come and we humbly ask that He continues to place His desires in our hearts. Pray that the Lord helps those involved in this project to raise the funds necessary for its completion, and pray that the Lord begins to work in the hearts of the children that will live in Naomi's Village.

Tonight we shared our experiences of the day as a group, and Beth and Leah gave their testimonies. These two young women are living God-centered lives, and it was a blessing to learn of their stories and how far they have come in their walks. I know that God will continue to be a part of our meetings during our time here and that He will continue to reveal Himself to us through the lives of our team and the people of this country.

Following our group meeting we decided to meet a challenge between Bob and Paul to see who was the best “Wii bowler.” Now I know that a house packed full of missionaries all playing Wii together sounds a bit odd, but I can honestly say that the fellowship surrounding our event was amazing to see. Bob separated us into brackets of men and women and I, of course, had to battle his son Will in the first round. I was only Will's first victim, and he basically convinced me that Wii bowling was not my strong suite, or my second, third, fourth or fifth suite....it was a bloodbath. Will worked his way systematically through the men's bracket while his sister Emily worked over the women's. In a final round of Mendonsa vs. Mendonsa, Will came out as the victor and promptly split his winnings up among the rest of the people in the room.

Sitting in Bob and Julie's home here in Kenya doesn't feel like a home halfway across the world; it feels like we picked up right where we left off at their home in Texas. When you are surrounded by this group of family and friends, location means nothing because we have never truly left one another. We are all exactly where God wants us to be and when we are reunited, it is an absolutely amazing experience.

The events of today and this evening have shown each and every one of us why we are here. God has brought us here to serve the people of CURE hospital, to bring joy to the children of Kenya who never cease to smile or wave, to delight in fellowship with old friends, and to pray for the work He has done and continues to do here in Kenya with projects like Naomi's Village. I am so thankful that God has invited my wife Ginny and myself to “come play” with Him here in Kenya. We are so very honored to be a part of this team and I thank each and every one of you for your encouragement and prayers for our team and the people of this country.

Please pray for us in our final days of this trip, pray for family members of the team who have been without their loved ones for over a week now, pray for the men of Lost Orphans that are helping to gather the funds needed for Naomi's Village, pray for the staff and patients in CURE hospital, pray for the people in the IDP camps (Internally Displaced People Camps for families who were transplanted during the post election violence in 2008) who will be going home in the coming weeks, and pray that these people will see rain soon so that many of them can have water and go back to work.

Hii nija ya choo (where is the bathroom?)

Michael “Macguyver” Mitchell

Leap of Faith

Another early morning...breakfast, then up the hill with a lot of heavy breathing and screaming quads in this case. Our altitude is higher than Denver and we're still adjusting. It could be the only quiet time experience of our day other than the time we spend with our LORD. Our team loves to laugh and we have found plenty of things to laugh about. I love it that we can be transparent with each other yet find the humor. Such a love for each other is growing as only God can create in His family.

Paul arranges our days with the CURE hospital staff daily. Through his efforts, each of us has been able to plug into different and unique experiences for the past two days. Has anyone mentioned how thankful we are for “Pastor” Paul – a true shepherd. He has drawn all of us out of our comfort zones through thought provoking questions and assignments constructed to enable us to become more real.

Daniel, Greg, DJ, Michael, and Paul were in the warehouse this morning to inventory once again, an assignment which has been much appreciated by the overseer, Naomi, and the CURE Hospital staff in general. Knowing the “haves” and “have nots” in the warehouse will enable them to know how to better plan for their patients and continue to perform with the skill and excellence which they have come to be respected.

Daniel and Greg spun off after lunch to share their IT knowledge in the business office. They have begun the long process of “cleaning up” the computers there which have become really slow because of viruses and other evils picked up on the internet. What a respect I have for their ability in this area – so alien to many but so natural and second nature to them. They have no idea what kind of respect that commands in most of us.

Michael spent his afternoon with one of the hospital ministers. He actually was given the opportunity to speak to the families in the ward and share his insight into the blessing of community and relationship that he has witnessed in the Kenyan culture so far. He did an amazing job for someone who claims a fear of public speaking.

DJ shared his admin knowledge and know-how with the business office before also being drafted by the ministry team to share his testimony in the ward. They all had a laugh about his name – apparently knowing our slang for “disc jockey” - but ended up taking him very seriously for his testimony of a changed life and secure walk with his Lord Jesus.

Elaine, Hannah, and Kristen were in the Play Room this morning. Many of the children waiting for theater (surgery) come there to be distracted from their hunger pains. They are ordered NPO – nothing per oral – before surgery. Other children have already had surgery and just need “kid stuff” to keep them from being totally bored and distracted from the healing process. We read a book with Francesca, who oversees the Play Room. She interpreted our story of Jonah into Swahili. Her version was about 3 times as long and seemed a lot more interesting than what I was reading!! We all wished we could have experienced it. The kids were fascinated with her storytelling. Afterwards we all made tambourines for the ward to praise the Lord - “Bwana Asifiwe” in their language.

Elaine and Kristen took over for the guys in the warehouse in the afternoon and Hannah had another amazing experience in the operating room. Hannah told us she wanted to look for the little guy she was working with in the Play Room after lunch. He was to be taken to surgery after lunch. The Lord pressed on her heart during the surgery to hold the hand of the child on the operating table. After being given permission to hold this child's hand during the surgery – she was totally shocked and blessed to discover it was the little boy she wanted to “look for.” His face had been partially draped for the surgery.

Beth and Leah were able to join Dr. Bob in clinic at the Kijabe Hospital in the morning. Their experience has been really useful and in demand for both CURE Hospital and Kijabe Hospital. But today was a learning day for them with Bob, who loves to teach. They loved it. After lunch they were able to observe a spinal surgery.

We are so thankful for the house staff: Anne, Grace, Keziah, Samuel, and Steven. They have fed us so well and washed all of our clothes! We will all be coming home a little rounder and certainly spoiled! Bob and Julie spoiled us tonight with home made tortilla chips, which Julie is perfecting (she's there!). They also joined us for dinner. We had great fun sitting around the table, swapping stories, and (of course) laughing. The Mendonsa family's hospitality has been such a blessing to our team. They have shared their hearts with us. God is doing His work through them for the Kenyan people they have come to serve but has also been faithful to stretch and grow them. He is so apparent in their lives! We have also loved their sense of humor and appreciation of the lighter side of life here.

Things to pray for:
Pray for rain as, right now, the entire area we are in is without running water. It is most likely just being rationed, but is a marker on how much Kenya needs God to provide rain for them. Each team member has voiced an area in which the Lord is dealing with them personally. Please join us in praying that God will be victorious in these areas. Please continue to pray for safety & health. Pray for open hearts to serve unselfishly – using our hands and our voices as the Lord leads, seeing through the Lord's eyes, hearing with His ears and loving with His heart. Pray also for the Mendonsa family – for continued strength & confidence to walk the path set out for them. Pray also for an affirmation of their ministry. Pray for assurance from the Lord. We love this family dearly (with a deep, abiding love) and want them to walk in the fulness of all Christ has for them. We are excited to see what He's doing in our beloved.

-Elaine

That Just Happened

Today was an early morning compared to our previous days. All of us were ready to go and out the door at 7:45 for our first day in the hospitals!! We made it in time for morning devotionals at the CURE Clinic. We shared in singing worship songs, praying and studying the Word with the CURE staff. After devo time, the group as a whole group joined up for some presentations.

The first presentation covered a more in depth history and information about the medical ministry of CURE. Then we heard from Earnest who is one of the members of the Spiritual ministry team. He explained their multifaceted approach to meeting the spiritual and emotional needs of the children and their families. Their ministry goes from the hospital ward all the way out to surrounding villages. It is in the villages that they join forces with pastors there to share the gospel and disciple new believers. They also introduce children with physical needs in these villages to the ministry CURE offers.

Then we were able to take part in a traditional Chai tea break...Kenyan style... with two scoops of sugar. Yumm. Now that we had our sugar fix we divided into groups and each sent on our way for the remainder of the day.

Leah and Beth were able to experience Kijabe Hospital where they used their experience in oncology and palliative care (end of life care) to consult with and share knowledge with the nurses there. Elaine and Kristen spent time in both the recovery area and operating room of the CURE hospital. Having never worked in these areas, both were blessed to watch and learn from the nurses in this area. Ginny, a physical therapist, with Hannah as her assistant were able to share ideas, answer questions and teach those from both the CURE hospital and the Kijabe Hospital. Michael, Greg, Daniel and D.J. began the morning in the warehouse starting the process of inventory on medical supplies that had been donated to CURE, including those donations we were able to bring from The Village. They were then able to join me (Kristen) and Elaine in the Theatre (Kenyan term for the operating room.) So all six of us were able to watch Dr. Mendonsa, a.k.a. “Smooth Operator” work his magic and perform a below-the-knee amputation. This surgery would enable this child to be fitted with a prosthetic leg and be able to walk again. The guys couldn't stop talking about what they had witnessed the rest of the day. Man Card = Earned!

After lunch we split up again. Leah and Beth to Kijabe Hospital and the rest of us to CURE. At CURE we all went to the warehouse to continue to inventory supplies. 2,600 sutures and one more chai break later, we called it a day and headed back to the house.

The day was topped off with a sweet time as a group. Kristen and Elaine shared their testimonies and then we were able to share encouragement for each of them. It was wonderful to take time to edify each other, and we look forward to being able to do this each night for the remainder of the week for all other team members!

Things to pray for:

Sensitivity to God's leading in where He desires us to spend our time within the CURE hospital. There are multiple opportunities to serve the staff, the children, as well as their families. We desire to be open and obedient to where He wants to use us as we go into our second day in the hospitals. Please also pray for Previns, the young man (probably 10) who had his leg amputated. While this was a needed procedure and will help with both the quality of life and the social stigma attached to his issue, there is much healing and adjustment ahead. Please also pray for out team leader, Paul. This is an amazing man of God, without whom this trip simply wouldn't be the same. Yes we trust God to use anyone, but he chose Paul in his infinite wisdom. Pray for Paul's own wisdom and guidance in being a liaison while dealing with a radically different culture. Thank you!

-Kristen

Sheboygan

Kenyans really know how to Sabbath well, as Sundays are reserved solely for church.

The morning started off with warm milk and monkeys in the back yard. Then we left around 8:30am to head to the small village of Eburru, in which we endured an hour and fifteen minute drive on the bumpiest, rockiest road in order to worship with them. Upon arriving in the village, we were immediately noticed as mzungus tend to stand out pretty well here. We were welcomed by a sea of children who, after a short period of confused timidity, lowered their walls and loved us well.

A Kenyan worship service knows no time. The congregation was led by a series of songs, dances, and prayers in which many women and children were invited to participate. Everyone danced without reservation, without inhibition, and without any fear of what others might think of their worship styles. Needless to say it was an incredibly joyous worship service.

Kenya has 42 tribes, in which 7 are represented in the Eburru church. Today happened to be the day where all of the tribes were individually recognized and appreciated, as the emphasis during service was on unity. And yet, as we are obviously different than the tribes, we are one body, serving one purpose, worshipping one God.

Paul was allowed the privilege to deliver the message today, with an interpreter at his side to translate (into Swahili) for the other members. After struggling a little bit in preparation for this message, Paul informed us that he was continually led back to Ephesians, and what book was the church currently studying? You guessed it, Ephesians. Again, God in His infinite wisdom...

Afterwards, the tribes prepared traditional dishes to share with everyone to celebrate the unity within the church. We partook in traditional goat fat, which looked and tasted similar to wet dog food with sand mixed in, potatoes, and butter sandwiches. What is a butter sandwich? It's butter, between two slices of bread. This was, by far, the most delicious thing at the festival.

After the celebration, we had some more time to love on and play with the children of the village. The kids got a huge kick out of us taking their picture and then turning the camera around so that they could see themselves. Having 30 kids pile on top of you, braid your hair, and irritate your sunburn was incredibly refreshing.

Pastor Steven then invited us back to his house for a second lunch. They went all out for us with rice, potatoes, beef stew, green beans, and carrots. This meal was much better than the butter sandwiches.

We then headed back to Kijabe with full stomachs on a long, bumpy, rocky trail. And after an hour of being home, it was time to eat again. The cooks prepared incredible curry chicken with rice and vegetables – our 3^rd meal in 4 hours. As you can tell, our blessings have been numerous on this trip.

Things to pray for:

Tomorrow will be our first full day in the CURE hospital. Please pray for each of us to be as patient and flexible as possible, as plans tend to change continuously here in Kenya. Most of us have Type-A personalities, so perpetually changing schedules have the possibility of hurting our ministry here at the hospital.

-DJ (proofed by Leah)

Happy Birthday Kaden!

Happy Birthday Kaden! I love you - from Aunt Ginny

They Got The Zebrahs, Only In Kenya

Blog day five.

Today was our off day. The Kenyans have a very different work ethic than ours. They take their weekend very seriously. Ergo, the hospital was closed, and thus we got a free day. We got this chance to spend some relaxing time with the Mendonsas.

We started today off with a hearty breakfast courtesy of “Team Breakfast Club” (Beth, Leah, Michael, D.J.) consisting of fried eggs, banana bread, english muffins, sausage, and local Kenyan coffee. Michael got a chance to teach Leah how to flip a fried egg. Now Michael is convinced that she is better than him.

We all hopped in the vans with the Mendonsas to head to Crescent Island, a sanctuary farm. The land normally is an island but due to the drought, was a peninsula. The park was run by a British couple and contained zebras, wildebeests, water buffalo, gazelles, horses, hippos, sheep, and giraffes. The Mendonsas have been to this park on many occasions, so we refused the tour guide as Bob Mendonsa would lead us. We saw our fair share of Zebras and were thrilled by them. As we spotted a small herd of giraffes about a mile off, Bob gave us instructions on how to surround the group so we could get close to them. We began to spread out and flank them. It was a blast. It was incredible to see this picture-perfect backdrop with the mountains and the lakes with the beautiful animals in the foreground. They also told us how timid the wildebeests are, as Will and Emily (the Mendonsa kids) ran with full confidence towards the beasts. Later we got a shot (above) of Leah doing the same. We later had lunch and shared some new experiences with the Mendonsas. A few of the team members got a chance to have lamb for the first time.

It was so rewarding just to spend time with the Mendonsas and minister to them just by hanging out with them. Again, the power of presence here in Kenya. Please pray for them as it is easy for those who leave their home to get moved to the back burner of the brain. They are doing amazing work here and deeply desire your prayer and your words. We thank Jesus for this incredible family.

Going to and from the safari adventure, we had a great time bonding on the two hours we spent in the van together. There was lots of laughter and lots of growth as we got to know each other a little better. God has been faithful in constantly increasing the unity of this team to accomplish His work here in Kenya (and back home later on). This in turn spurred on deeper conversations and convictions tonight and is drawing us deeper into the Lord and unifying us with Him.

After we got back we got to spend some more OKSAT (see previous post) till we had dinner at 6:30p. We all had dinner at our guest house with The Mendonsas and three guests (with Lost Orphans International) that are staying with them also from the DFW metro area.

We finished off the evening off with some quality time including praying for Paul who is one of the preachers for tomorrow at church. We crave your prayers for this as well as he seeks to bring the message God has given him to share with the Kenyans. It's always a crazy day in church when the Mzungu (white people) show up. It'll be an all day event, and we'll most likely be asked to talk and may even have to sing a song or something for them. Fun times.

To be continued...

-Greg (proofed by Michael then by Daniel then again by Greg)

Comfort The Children

The team was deeply impacted by the ministry of Comfort the Children yesterday. Way more than could fit in a single blog post (let alone a daily summary). So we want to tell you a little more about the ministry and some experiences we had there.

When a child is born with a deformity (either physical or mental), the family wants nothing to do with him. The father will try and get rid of the child, but if the mother refuses, he will often leave the family (and be accepted for this). Great shame is brought upon the mother of a special needs child. Even to the point that those who associate with these children or help take care of them are counted as nothing by friends and family. This is why the mothers making eye contact and having the confidence to address us yesterday was such a big deal.

Jeremiah, the man in charge, has an amazing passion for these kids and mothers. (Hello James 1:27) The mothers bring their kids to CTC and work in their shop, learning how to make bags. This both helps supplement costs for CTC and teaches the mothers a trade and helps dignify them (in the eyes of the culture).

We had range of functionality with the children. The teachers told us stories about the growth in functionality of some of the children which was encouraging. Several of us worked with very low functioning kids and realized the higher functioning ones were once there. This points back to Paul's post on Thursday about God's with-ness and the power of presence. It is amazing how that physical touch, the loving of God's creation, can build up a child. Even though I say child, the children were as old as 21. They certainly didn't look it. We thought the teachers misunderstood us when we were asking the children's age.

Even in the short time we spent with them, we could see response and growth (with complete strangers!) This definitely stretched the team with everything from dealing with snotty kids and losing personal bubbles to praying desperately how to connect with a child who might not understand you even if you spoke Swahili. It was an emotionally trying and beautiful time. One moment being when Ginny was trying to fix a splint for one of the kids (who constantly hid his arm from us, feeling the shame of it). Once he realized she was trying to help, he reached over to grab his own arm to help her strap it on despite the discomfort it caused. Even though this was uncomfortable, he was willing to go through it because he already loved her and felt the love of Christ in her. This was a heart breaking moment for those experiencing it. And it is only one of at least 16 stories going on at the same time.

Please pray for this ministry. They deeply love the Lord and his work. Pray for more places to sell their bags to generate income for the ministry. Pray for more workers and volunteers to pour into these children. Pray for the continued growth of these children. Pray for wisdom and vision for Jeremiah. Pray that the mothers and children find their identity in Christ and not in this culture. Pray for the culture itself that the hearts of these people may change and see the beauty of Christ in ALL his people. Amen!

-Daniel

Save a Tree, Eat a Goat

We started off day four with a wonderful breakfast made by “Team A” (Elaine, Paul, and Kristen). Then we experienced our first OKSAT (Obligatory Kenya Screw Around Time) while we waited on our transportation into Maai Mahiu. We were told to be ready by 1030, however our transportation did not show up till about 1130. During our first OKSAT, Kristen kept us busy with Africa Trivia cards. Pretty much D.J. and Elaine kicked everyone's butts.

When our transportation arrived, to our surprise, it was the Cure Ambulance! Long story short, we turned the ambulance into a four-wheeling, off-roading, monster. We headed down the mountain to Maai Mahiu to Comfort the Children Ministry (www.ctcinternational.org). This is a ministry run by an amazing man named Jeremiah. The ministry reaches out to disabled children and their mothers in a community that rejects and shuns them. We learned that many times these children are killed or neglected while their mother's are shunned or abused. At this ministry, the children come during the day to a school where they are loved and taught, while their mothers sew bags that are sold in order to raise profits to keep the facility open. We were blessed to be able to play with these children.

God taught us many things like how just being physically present can bring a child and their mother a sense of peace and strength. These children and women have overcome many obstacles and will continue to run into obstacles during their lives. When we met the mothers, the told us their name and spoke English. Jeremiah said this would not have happened two months ago. Growth is happening here! While we were there we colored, danced, sang and just held the children. We were able to discuss with their teachers how some of these children have overcome obstacles that we cannot even imagine with just a little love and attention. It is amazing to be able to see how God is working throughout the nations!

After we visited Comfort the Children, we had our first real authentic Kenyan meal, nyama choma (which is roasted goat meat with a side of corn flour type bread). When we arrived back at our “home,” we rested, ate dinner and watched a beautiful sunset over the mountains. We had an awesome group time and discussed how God blessed each and everyone of us through our time at Comfort the Children. We also experienced a Little Susan Boyle to appease our fearless leader Paul. Then Mendonsas invited us to our house where we celebrated Michael's 30^th Birthday! We enjoyed fellowshipping with them. It was a fun day full of adventure. And we have many days still yet to experience.

Bwana Asifiwe (Praise the Lord)!

-Beth (Edited by Daniel)

Day Tree

God is good! We arrived in Kijabe today, from Nairobi, with a few stops along the way. We took in the beautiful Great Rift Valley, learned some important lessons on bartering for goods (like “be sure to slash the offered price in half”), and saw baboons on the side of the road!

Our facilities are amazing, and the staff here is a huge blessing. We toured the hospital and got a feel for our surroundings here. We also spent some time with the Mendonsas. The entire team (all 11 of us) squeezed into Julie's car and went to watch Will's soccer game. It was a great “team bonding” experience, as we went up the trail together to his school.

We continue to bond well as a team. Beth has started a quote book of the funny things we have each said during moments of jet lag. Yes, I am sure some will be shared on this blog.

Tonight we discussed the blessing of God's “with-ness” as we strive to be a witness here. We remembered the Great Commandment—to go and make disciples—as being coupled with Jesus' promise that He will always be with us. Pray that we experience His presence in a powerful way as we minister to the people of Kenya!

Blessing,
~Paul

We've made it!

Hey everybody, thanks for praying for a safe flight! We're finally in Africa and at a hotel for the night. Everyone is safe and excited to see what the Lord is going to do in us and through us these next couple of weeks.

Unto Him be all the glory!

Let's do this!

http://flightaware.com/live/flight/BAW192

Kenya trip info video

Prayer Itinerary

While we plan to post daily updates, we wanted you all to have an upfront glance at our trip itinerary, along with some ways to pray. Our activities in Kenya are subject to change, so please pray that we would have open and willing hearts before we head out!

September 22 - 23

Please pray for safe travel, for our baggage to show up, and for no issues at customs:

· BA 192: Dallas to London; Depart on 22 Sept at 5:35p; Arrive at 8:40a

· BA 65: London to Nairobi; Depart on 23 Sept at 10:20a; Arrive at 8:55p

Pray we have a good night’s rest in Nairobi and wake up feeling rested!

September 24

Day One in Kijabe (Thursday) will consist of resting, enjoying time with the Mendonsa family, and touring the area. The evening will include planning for the next day.

Pray for the Mendonsa family (Bob, Julie, Emily, and Will), that we would bring refreshment and encouragement! They now live full time in Kenya, serving with CURE.

September 25

Day Two (Friday) will be hospital orientation and ward fellowship (interacting with patients and their families). We will play with kids and share our stories.

Pray for our Kenyan hosts. They have worked so hard to prepare for our arrival. Ask that we would be a blessing to them—that we would be humble servants.

September 26

Day Three (Saturday) starts the weekend, when activities will be light. We can spend some of that day just looking around the nearby area. Also, we may go hiking.

Pray for our team health and unity. Ask that we would adapt to the Kenyan pace of life.

September 27

Day Four (Sunday) will be church. It will take up the morning into the afternoon. Also, that evening we will meet as a team to prepare for a week of activity in the hospital.

Pray for the Church in Kenya. Ask the Lord to bless His word as it is preached.

September 28 – October 2

Days Five thru Nine (Monday – Friday) will include us splitting into smaller teams. Four of the nurses (Beth, Leah, Elaine, and Kristen) will be serving in various medical environments, but mostly observing and partnering with CURE nurses to prepare for PALS testing in October. Ginny and Hannah will be serving in the ward, with Ginny leading out on training in PT work. The rest of us guys will be doing ward fellowship and serving in the business office. Greg and Daniel will do some IT training. We will all need to be prepared to use our VBS activities during “free time” around the hospital.

Pray for the families that we will be ministering to, in a variety of ways. Pray that they would enjoy a relationship with Jesus Christ, as we share the good news. Ask that they would experience God’s love, to overcome any obstacles or shame that would keep patients or their families from fully receiving the help available through CURE.

Also, please pray for the staff at the CURE hospital and neighboring Kijabe Hospital. Ask that God would connect us in special ways, as we serve alongside each other.

October 3

Day Ten (Saturday) is recreation day in Nairobi. Bob and Julie will be taking us!

Pray for safe travels and a sweet time of fellowship. Begin praying for our trip home.

October 4-5

Day Eleven (Sunday) will be church in the Lunga Lunga slums. Then, we will head to the Maasai market for last minute shopping. Then, off to the airport!

Then, here is our return trip home, again for family to keep tabs with us:

· BA 64: Nairobi to London; Depart on 4 Oct at 11:10p; Arrive at 5:55a

· BA 193: London to Dallas; Depart on 5 Oct at 11:40a; Arrive at 3:40p

Please pray for our time reconnecting with family and friends here. Though it is a two week trip, our worldviews will be impacted greatly by this trip. Ask that we would have opportunities to share our stories and that we would struggle well upon our return.

Continue to pray for the amazing ministry of CURE, as they impact lives around the globe. Ask that God would bless their work in Kenya and beyond.