“For I will pour water on the thirsty land, and streams on the dry ground;
I will pour my Spirit upon your offspring,
and my blessing on your descendants.” ~Isaiah 44:3
The first rain has come! There is nothing like the smell of the rain, or maybe it is the sound of the big African rain drops hitting the tin roof that makes me smile the most. But better still is seeing the dark clouds form in the big African sky, such a vivid sign of hope and blessing, sent by our loving Father. The thirsty ground not only drinks up the rain, but so quickly responds to the life it brings.
Every week we see progress on the beautiful dorm that the Lord is providing to disciple Africa’s leaders! We are so grateful for our generous friends that donated toward the dorm’s construction! We will gather 21 young adults leaders from the Community Christian Churches Tanzania (CCCT) November 15-18. We are convinced that the deepest discipleship, fellowship, growth, outreach, and love for God and His Word flourish in small groups.
Along with the dorm, which will accommodate up to 40 people, we are expanding our electrical power system and have installed a huge underground cistern for capturing rainwater.
We are thrilled to see the vision of the dorm become a reality. Please pray for final details as scarce supplies and rising costs have been challenging; pray also for provision of the furnishings needed.
Enlarging Vision for Church Leaders
During our sabbatical, one of the experiences that deeply reconnected me (Tammy) with God’s missionary heart was taking the Perspectives on World Mission class. Imagine my excitement when I discovered that a version of this class called Kairos is being taught here in Swahili.
From November 1-5, Peter and I will be attending this class with nine key leaders of the Maasai churches (those who know Swahili and are strong readers). We have been sowing the seeds of God’s mission among the Maasai for years, and we are expecting a downpour this week upon the prepared soil of these leaders’ hearts. Pray with us for the Kingdom fruit of Maasai who go and Maasai who send—here in Tanzania and beyond!
Another way that God is highlighting for us to come alongside Maasai pastors is through improved literacy and further education. Many of the pastors in remote areas were never able to attend high school. We have been working with the Bishop and head of Education for the fellowship of Maasai churches. His ministry includes responsibility for all aspects of education for CCCT’s growing number of churches. Coming alongside these devoted disciples in their vision is a great joy.
A small group lets these women explore their faith together and include the children. This group is part of Solomon and Sarah’s outreach in the south.
Reaching Youth with Transformational Education
Here in East Africa, like everywhere these days, the spiritual battle is raging over the minds and hearts of the youth. We see discipleship and education working hand in hand to raise up the next generation of leaders in the church. In August, we were invited to give input on discipleship models to a consortium of ministries in Naivasha, Kenya reaching youth at risk. And now this month, key youth leaders from across northern Maasailand are coming to Wild Hope for small group discipleship training. We can’t wait! And we are so proud of the way the students we have been sponsoring are growing in Christ as well as performing excellently academically!
We continue as well to partner with our Trustee and dear friend James Kukan to see the Enduata Christian Primary School in Enguewa strong and established. Recently some key breakthroughs have happened in the long process of getting the school fully registered and built. One of our sponsored students, John Lenkiton, has become director and is leading the charge. He is humble and efficient and such a joy to work with!
This year we are committed to raising funds for an additional classroom and a teachers’ quarters for the Maasai teachers we have trained who are doing such a good job of pouring back into their community.
Children pray before school starts at the Enduata School.
Education and character building transforms students’ lives.
Family Update
Skyler, Justine, Zeph, and Ruby are still working through the government paperwork so that they are able to return to the US together. God has been opening some exciting possibilities for them about future ministry, so stay tuned for the next step when it becomes more clear.
Recently, we had a big celebration here for Peter’s 60th birthday. We wish you could have been here to be part of it!
We Need YOU!
As we sense the urgency of the Father to build maturity in African leaders and lay a strong foundation for enduring faith, God is giving us more and more opportunities to accomplish His purposes. This year we are going to participate in Giving Tuesday, a global movement of generosity, that takes place on Nov 30, the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving..
Our Giving Tuesday page outlines in detail all of the ways that God will channel your generosity to build His Kingdom in Tanzania. Please prayerfully consider how God might want you to be involved.
Thank you so much for all your love and support!