Partners meeting in Nashville
On March 6th, ten enthusiastic Tumaini Children's Ministry friends and supporters from across the country gathered in Nashville, TN to reunite and exchange ideas. We arrived to beautiful snow covered landscapes and below freezing temperatures. The unseasonably cold weather was quickly forgotten as hugs were exchanged and the memories started flowing of our visit to Nyeri, Kenya in October of 2014. Ebralie Mwizerwa from The Outreach Foundation had planned a productive day filled with prayers and plans for the future of this ministry. We started with an overview of the Tumaini ministry by the four representatives from Meadows Presbyterian Church to help us reconnect with our dear friends half way around the world. Then we jumped right into reviewing the progress of the child sponsorship program, "leavers" scholarships, website development, and outreach efforts to expand support to other churches. We discussed the financial status and needs of both Tumaini and Huruma as we rejoiced at the progress made and lifted up our concerns in prayers. As we closed the long day, we were ready for another trip and discussed frequency and timing - probably fall 2016. We also validated the importance of these partners meetings and would like to make it an annual gathering with more in attendance. As I board the plane to head home to sunny LA, I am exhausted but encouraged to be with friends and reminded that God has great plans for us and His beloved children in Nyeri - and it is to prosper. As I reflect on our visit last fall, my mind flips through the memories of enthusiastic singing, warm smiles, unfaltering faithfulness, and huge hugs. There is no doubt, I'll be back!