The cry of the orphan...

The cries of the orphans have been felt from around the world this morning in such a personal way. My heart aches often for kids who live in fear, poverty, and without hope in this world. I have been wanting to update you and Tyler and his ministry in Kenya.

This is the new 5th grade school building.

There has been much good news coming from TIPS international.  Through the prayers and financial resources of those of you who have helped, the school building on Mfangano Island was built on schedule. Tyler spent Christmas with the orphans and families who gathered to share a meal. The kids had a great time as gifts that Kaden and the other children here sent with Tyler. Each of the kids were able to get their own soda to drink and a meal was shared with all of them. It was a wonderful Christmas celebration.

In addition, a gentleman for Germany has partnered with the school and has donated uniforms and backpacks for all the kids. The lunch program has begun. God is working in amazing ways on the Island. Doors are being opened for the widows as well. Tyler was in Nairobi recently looking at possible money generating projects that the widows could participate in. The goal is to provide the widows employment so that they can support their families.

Thanks to those of  you who have supported the efforts here in Kenya...every penny has gone to these projects..and your prayers are so appreciated. You can donate through paypal on the sidebar of this blog if you would like to be a part of all that is going on here. As always, we would appreciate your prayers.

I spoke with Tyler this morning. One of the teachers at the school, a widow with two children who extended such kindness to Tyler when he arrived on the island, has died. She brought him to her house and  fed him even though her and her two children had very little. She died unexpectedly and she is not from the island and so there are no relatives to look after her two orphaned children. Tyler called to see if we could help him to pay for the funeral expenses for her (about $70) and to buy a few things for the children that they desperately need.

My heart is aching. There are two more orphans alone and grieving in the world today. Two precious children (early grade school age) who have lost their kind and generous mother...all they had in this world. Please pray for these two children. I know that Tyler's heart is aching...I know mine is and I did not meet this woman and her children. I remember him telling me about her when he first arrived home in September. He told me she was watching out for him..she invited him to her home...she had so little...but gave so much in the name of her Savior.  That is a legacy worth honoring.

So, I will ask on behalf of these two children who must be feeling so alone in this world right now, please lift them up in prayer. There are just two of the millions of orphans around the world who need us to stand up for them...to let them know they are not forgotten..that they are loved. If you can give something, please consider donating. We are handling all of the funds from here..and Tyler pays everything directly when he needs to purchase something.