March 2010 News
By the time of this publication the arduous task of obtaining passports and visas for the Mothers’ Mercy Home children who will be visiting us in April should have been completed. Paula Karanja, who is the manager of the Home and will be accompanying them, has been in the process for many months. Margaret Waithera, 11 and Jimmy Gititu, 10 are scheduled to arrive late Friday, April 9th and be with us until April 27th. At the request of Bishop Ranji, Diocese of Mt. Kenya South, his daughter Rehema Ranji, will also be accompanying Paula and the children at his expense.
We are very excited about this opportunity for our parish family to get to know one on one these brothers and sisters in Christ who we are supporting through prayer and financial assistance through our Mothers’ Mercy Home Partnership Program. www.mmhpp.org All parishioners are invited to a Soup and Salad Luncheon following the 10 am service on Sunday, April 18th. You will hear how the children are being cared for in this Christian Home and have the chance to meet and ask questions of Paula, Margaret, Jimmy and Rehema.
During their time here they will be visiting schools, attending Sunday School and AWANA, helping at Double Portion, visiting InterVarsity students at Lawrence, participating in the Diocesan Diversity Fair in Oneida on Saturday, April 24th, speaking at St. John’s New London on Sunday, April 25th, and worshipping back at Kaleidoscopic Worship here at St. Thomas that same evening. A Special Event for Partners is being planned and our Kenyan friends will also meet with Bishop Jacobus and the Diocesan Staff. We will also be including some fun events to give them a warm welcome and a feeling for our community.
Other opportunities for you to interact with our very special visitors include:
- Inviting any of our guests to your small group meeting
- Sharing a meal with them
- Inviting Margaret and Jimmy to share an after school play date with your child
If you are interested in any of the above please contact Kathy Peterson at kapeters3@earthlink.net to determine if it can be worked into their calendar.
The MMHPP Board is extremely excited about this relational visit with one of our seven major missionary outreach programs here at St. Thomas. We hope you will plan to take this opportunity to meet and greet our special guests this April.
February 2010 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The blessing of Fr. Paul Feider’s Healing Day with the Clergy Spouses of the Diocese of Mt. Kenya South
Prayer Request:
- That the Kenyan government will without further delay issue passports and visas for Margaret Waithera and James Gititu to visit us in April
- That the visit of Paula Karanja, Margaret and James will be a blessing to our church family & community
February 2010 News
The scores are in for the 19 children who took Secondary School exams in November. We are told the exam was especially difficult this year with the highest score of any Kenyan child being 437 points out of a possible 500. The children from MMH attended public schools where there are 60 to 70 children in each class with little ability for one teacher to give any individual attention. Since Private Schools have 15 to 20 children in a class Paula Karanja states you can expect those children to score 100 points higher than the public school students. Sixteen of the MMH children scored between 223 and 336 points, which makes them eligible for Secondary School. The three children scoring below 200 points will be placed in Technical High Schools where they will learn skills that will help them in their future.
Please pray that the right schools will be chosen for each of the children. It is anticipated that they will do great since they will get personal attention and have much improved learning conditions.
Plans for the relational visit of Paula Karanja, Margaret Waithera (11) and James (Jimmy) Gititu (10) are proceeding, with their arrival scheduled for sometime the week of April 5th, shortly after Easter.
January 2010 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The Partners who offered prayer and financial support for the children during 2009
Prayer Request:
- That the necessary documentation may be obtained for the two children coming in April 2010
- That the 19 children beginning Secondary School in February will have a smooth transition
January 2010 News
We are happy to report that all 19 children who were eligible took their secondary school exams in November. November 26th to December 7th they had a break from their studies and were able to have some fun at a Camp. Just after New Years they left to be with their guardians for 3 weeks. God willing, they will all begin Secondary School in February. The cost for Secondary School for all of them is 600,00 Ksh (approximately $8000) for the year.
The younger children joined their guardians in December for a few weeks. (There is no school in Kenya in December.) Though it is important for the children to be with their family members or guardians, there is always a concern for the safety and protection of many of the children as they are not always received well at home. The children should be back in time to receive our Christmas greetings at their Christmas celebration.
On December 5th the Mothers’ Union had a major fundraiser to begin construction of rental houses. Once built, they hope to be able to raise funds in this way to sustain the operation of the Home.
Paula Karanja thanks all of us at St. Thomas and beyond for our continued love and support. She, along with two of the children, is looking forward to being with us in April and having the opportunity to thank us in person.
December 2009 Prayers
Praise God for:
- For the 19 children who were healthy and able to take their Secondary School exams in November and who will begin Secondary School in February
- For the enrichment of the 19 children at the camp they will attend Nov. 26th through December 7th
Prayer Request:
- For the provision of $8000 to pay Secondary School expenses for the 19 children.
For the success of fundraisers and plans by the Diocese of Mt. Kenya South to build rental houses to provide future income to sustain MMH
December 2009 News
As you will remember the new Mothers’ Mercy Home Dormitory was dedicated just one year ago on November 29, 2008. With increased accommodations the Home is capable of housing more than the present 84 children.
In March of this year 30 people met to develop a Five Year Strategic Plan for MMH developing a Motto, Vision and Mission. Their stated Mission is to identify and to meet the emotional, mental, physical, spiritual and social needs for children to mature and to live life to its fullness. Most of the present 84 children were admitted to MMH at the age of 5 or 6 and this month they will be admitting 12 new 5 and 6 year old boys and girls. Please keep both the current children and the new boys and girls as well as the staff in your prayers as everyone makes this adjustment to change.
We are looking forward to the visit of Paula Karanja (Coordinator of the Mothers’ Union which administers the Home) and two of the children in April 2010. Although the boy has not as yet been chosen we have been informed that Margaret Waithira will be coming. Margaret’s birthday is on Valentine’s Day and she will turn 11 next year. She arrived at MMH in 2003 at the age of 4. Her family consists of a father, 2 brothers and 1 sister. She is shy but friendly and enjoys football (soccer). Her favorite color is pink and she likes cats. When she grows up she says she would like to be a President. We look forward to having you meet her.
November 2009 Prayers
Praise God for:
- Margaret Waithera (11) who will join Paula Karanja on a visit to St. Thomas in April 2010
Prayer Request:
- For the 12 new boys and girls, ages 5 and 6, who will begin residency at MMH in December
- For the 6 boys and 13 girls in Class 8 who will be taking Secondary School exams this month
October 2009 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The protection of the Home’s bus as robbers tried to steal parts
Prayer Request:
- For the complete healing of the two guards who were injured by the robbers
- For the 6 boys and 13 girls in Class 8 who will be taking Secondary School exams in November
- For the country of Kenya as it suffers severe rationing of electricity with hydroelectric power limited due to draught.
October 2009 News
Please note the following information as you continue to pray for these boys and girls who will be taking their Secondary School exams this November. All children are in Class 8 and communicate in English, Kiswahili and Kikuyu.
- The following 15 children joined MMH in 2001
John Kaheni (14) Last born in a family of 3. Orphan under care of grandmother. Has a heart problem and can’t perform well in outdoor activities. Class performance average. Aspires to be a teacher.
- John Gakure (11) 7th born in poor family of 9. Parents are alive. Class performance good. Active in games and likes football. Aspires to be an information technologist.
- Jacob Njuguna (13) Last born in family of 4. Orphan under care of brother. Class performance good. Loves to draw and is very talented. Very humble and quiet. Aspires to be an artist.
- Paul Mbugua (13) 2nd born in family of 5. Neglected by parents and left to grandmother’s care. Class performance poor but active in outdoor and practical activities. Amazingly good with hands. Aspires to be a mechanical engineer.
- Julius Njogu (13) Last born in family of 7. Orphan with uncle as guardian. Class performance good. Active, responsible and bright. Aspires to be a Pastor and artist (singer).
- Moses Mbugua (14) 2nd born in family. Neglected by parents and left under care of grandmother. Class performance average. Responsible and active. Aspires to be a doctor.
- Loise Njeri (13) 1st born in family of 2. Orphan whose aged grandparents are guardians. Class performance good. Courageous girl. Aspires to be a caterer.
- Teresiah Wambui (14) 2nd born in family of 2. Single mother is guardian. Class performance average. Active and humble. Aspires to be a preacher.
Judy Wanjiru (12) Last born in family of 5. Both parents live under very poor conditions. Class performance is good. Active, courageous, bright. Judy aspires to be a bank manager.
- Grace Wambui (13) 5th born in family of 6. Class performance good. Quiet and polite. Aspires to be a secretary.
- Ruth Wahu (13) 4th born in family of 6. Class performance fair. Active in outdoor activities. Aspires to be a teacher.
- Nancy Asokoni Kefa (12) 3rd born in family of 3. Orphan cared for by uncle. Class performance excellent. Responsible and active. Aspires to be accountant.
- Virginia Wambui (13) Orphan cared for by grandmother. Class performance fair. Active in outdoor activities.
Faith Wanjiru (14) 4th born in family of 5. Orphan cared for by grandmother. Class performance excellent. Good in all subjects, polite, responsible and very concerned with what she does.
- Lucy Nyambura (13) 3rd born in family of 4. Orphan cared for by grandmother. Clever and neat.
The following 3 children joined MMH in 2003
- Mirium Wairimu (14) 2nd born in family of 4. Under care of grandparent. Class performance good. Aspires to be a nurse.
- Catherine Mueni (16) 1st born in family of 3. Single mother HIV positive. Class performance fair. Responsible and active. Aspires to be broadcaster or hair designer.
- Rahab Wagaki Mumbi (12) Last born in family of 4. Cared for by mother. Class performance excellent. Quiet, active, responsible.
Joined MMH in 2005
- Ann Nyambura Mbiriri (14) 3rd born in family of 4. Father alive but grandmother cares for her. Class performance average. Very quiet. Aspires to be a teacher.
September 2009 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The children finishing the 2nd school term without any issues at school or MMH
Prayer Request:
- For the 6 boys and 13 girls in Class 8 who will be taking Secondary School exams in November
- For the 6 boys who will be circumcised in December and the 13 girls who will go through a 12 day Initiation Program.
September 2009 News
As school bells are ringing and the leaves will be changing color, the Mothers’ Mercy Home Partnership Program Board is looking forward to beginning to plan the details of the April 2010 visit of Paul Karanja, (Coordinator of the Mothers’ Union which established, supports and administers Mothers’ Mercy Home) and two of the children.
We will be planning church wide events so all can meet, greet and learn more of the life changing ministry of MMH. There will also be opportunities for the children to meet with AWANA, Sunday School and Youth Group as well as the women of Lawrence University Intervarsity. We will schedule days for our guests to visit schools in our area and also some other churches in the Diocese. And a special event will be held for Partners and other Supporters.
Please pray that birth certificates and visas will be obtained without too much red tape and that plans for the visit will go smoothly.
“And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in Glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19
August 2009 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The boy and girl who have been chosen to visit us next April (Not yet made known)
- The support of MMH by so many individuals through the recent African Dinner
Prayer Request:
- That The Lord will expedite the process of obtaining government issued birth certificates for all the children of MMH
- For knowledge and patience for the children continuing to study for Secondary School exams this winter
August 2009 News
A very special THANK YOU to everyone who supported the Mothers’ Mercy Home Partnership Program by attending the African Dinner and Program on July 30th or by making a generous contribution. We are grateful to Everett and Santha Goodwin for sharing their wonderful talents with us.
We are anxiously looking forward to having Paula Karanja and two of the children with us for three weeks next April. Our invitation has spurred the administration to obtain birth certificates for all the children since most of them have no papers. Paula asks for our prayers since hungry officials can complicate securing papers.
A boy and girl have been selected but it was “decided not to reveal to them for the time being about the trip otherwise they will be toooooooooooo excited and abandon other duties.”
As we enjoy summer it is winter now in Kenya. It is cold, especially in the early morning and into the evening and night when they are wearing their “gardigans.”
“Let the children come to me, and do not hinder them;
for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 19:14
July 2009 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The anticipated visit of Paula Karanja and two of the children to our Diocese in April, 2010
Prayer Requests:
- The expedition of the issuing of visas for their travel
- For discernment in the planning of their time among us so that the ministry of MMH may be made known to many of our brothers and sisters in Christ
July 2009 News
CAUSE FOR CELEBRATION
In just 9 months, March 31, 2010 the first three-year agreement between Mothers’ Mercy Home ( Diocese of Mt. Kenya South) and our Mothers’ Mercy Home Partnership Program will be completed. This program of prayer and financial support of 58 of the 84 children who reside at MMH has been a blessing to all 84 children as well as to us. Paula Karanja, Coordinator of the Mothers’ Union Committee that oversees the home, continues to tell us of the improvements in the children’s lives as a result of our support. To celebrate our relationship and to plan for its continuation the MMHPP Board is planning to host Paula and one of the boys and one of the girls in a visit to our community in April 2010. It will provide a wonderful opportunity for all of us to hear first hand all the exciting news of what is happening with the children, be made aware of the difference their new dormitory has made in their lives and to learn how the new Cargo Human Care Medical Center has improved the health of the children and their neighbors in the surrounding community.
In anticipation of this visit we are planning a very special evening of celebration on Thursday, July 30th beginning at 6 PM at the home of Bob and Lynne Keller:
“African Simplicity
with
American Elegance”
featuring
“When Words Leave off
Music Begins”
H. Heine
A program of Violin and Piano
Presented by accomplished musicians
Everett and Santha Goodwin
Members of St. Thomas Church
If you have not as yet received an invitation to this evening of dinner and music we sincerely invite you to attend. If interested please contact any member of the MMHPP Board: Kathy Peterson, Lyn Ross, Sue Steinhilber, Carol Hert, Santha Goodwin, Lynne Keller, or Terri Foth.
June 2009 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The 58 Partners of children of MMH at the end of our second year of Partnership, March 31, 2009
Prayer Requests:
- That many needy people will get to know about the Medical Center and come for treatment (which can be completely free for those with no money)
- That the Lord will raise up an additional 26 Partners for the children without Partners
June 2009 News
Highlights of Paula Karanja’s Quarterly Report (Jan., Feb., March):
With the challenge of Bishop Timothy Ranji to develop a 5 Year Strategic Plan for MMH, 30 people met for a three day workshop March 24-27th. They came up with the following draft:
MOTTO: With God we can.
VISION: A Christian based home built by faith to reach and equip the less fortunate children to be self-reliant and responsible citizens.
MISSION: To identify and to meet the emotional, mental, physical and spiritual and social needs for children to maturity and to live life in its fullness.
A sub-committee of 10 members will work on the Draft and come up with the final Strategic Plan before July 2009.
Voluntary medical services will be provided in the Cargo Human Care Medical Center two weeks each month by over 30 rotating doctors from Germany.
A good number of the children have been performing well in their schools and maintained class positions of first to third. Children in classes 6 to 8 have been attending computer classes taught by a volunteer since late last year.
Nazareth Hospital has congratulated MMH for taking good care of the four children who are HIV Positive. They have increased their weight and their CD4 counts are encouraging. They continue to be provided goat’s milk which is much more nutritious than cow’s milk.
Paula also has sent word that with the recent drought the cost of food has been quite high and they have had to spend almost double the amount that they did in the past to feed the children. Also, when the children returned on April 29th from their holiday with guardians, most of them had lost weight, indicating there was not much to eat in their homes.
Paula continues to extend the gratitude of the Mothers’ Mercy Home Project Committee to the Partners and other donors for their continued generosity. love and support. She states “Guess what, God is still smiling at your OUTSTANDING services to Him and may He continue to surprise you and your families with His blessings.
May 2009 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The special tutoring of the 19 children preparing for Secondary School exams in November.
- The healing blessings received by the approximately 100 people a day served through the Cargo Human Care Medical Centre at MMH.
Prayer Requests:
- That Partners will come forth for the children who do not as yet have a Partner.
- For continued guidance in planning a Technical High School .
May 2009 News
The Easter cards and notes from Partners and Awana children arrived on time and were distributed to the children on Easter Day.
The children were on their one-month school break during the month of April. Tuition was paid for the 19 children in Class VIII who are preparing for secondary school exams in November to attend extra tutoring in their respective schools during the vacation break. All the children left to join their Guardians from April 17th through the 29th.
Though the Cargo Human Care Medical Centre as dedicated on February 28th it did not see patients from the community until April 1st. The need for medical service is very high as about 100 people per day are being treated. During the first week a baby boy was delivered and the life of a woman was saved. She came to the clinic with heavy bleeding on a day the gynecologist was on duty. She was rushed to Nazareth Hospital where she received emergency surgery. Praise God that He placed the right people in place to meet her needs that day.
April 2009 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The way He has enlarged Mothers’ Mercy Home territory with the staffed Medical Centre which will serve the children and the surrounding community,
- And by the placement of a cousin of a MMH child in a school for developmentally disabled children where her needs can be met.
- The continued good health and nurturing of the children.
Prayer Requests:
- For the ability to move the Mothers’ Union Office to MMH so that Paula Karanja, Mothers’ Union Coordinator, can be close to the children on a daily basis.
- For persistence and help for the 19 children in Class 8 who are studying for Secondary School exams in November.
- That people treated physically through The Cargo Human Care Medical Centre will be led to Christ and nurtured in their spiritual lives.
- For continued guidance in planning a Technical High School.
April 2009 News
In an e-mail from Paula Karanja, Coordinator of the Mothers’ Union which runs Mothers’ Mercy Home, on January 2, 2009 she wrote, “May the Lord enlarge Mothers’ Mercy Home territory.” Glory to God, he has done so!
We have received more wonderful news about the Cargo Human Care Medical Centre at Mothers’ Mercy Home that opened on Saturday, February 28th. Paula writes that Cargo Human Care will be paying the salaries of two qualified nurses, one pharmacist/registration clerk and one facility manager who will be permanently employed at the Centre. German ENTs, gynecologists, dentists, general practitioners and other specialists will be rotating through on a weekly basis, we believe two weeks of each month. This Medical Centre will be providing care for the children as well as for people in the surrounding community. Unless they are very poor, in which case treatment will be completely free, they will be charged Ksh 50 (< $1) for registration and Ksh 100 (about $1.50 ) for treatment and drugs. Cargo Human Care will also meet all costs related to those needing admission to an appointed hospital. This far exceeds MMH’s original expectations of a small clinic and will make a great difference in the lives of the people of their community.
In February, while visiting the home of one of the MMH children’s guardians, Paula and a benefactor found a ten year old cousin, a developmentally disabled child, locked up in her home. She was dirty, hungry, harassed and living in worse conditions than their domestic animals. With the help of the benefactor they recently were able to move the child to Gatamaiyu Home for Mentally Handicapped Children. We pray that in her new environment she will be able to develop to her fullest abilities. The girl’s mother, who previously had to spend all her time with the child, was set up in a small cottage industry and has thus been able to provide food for the rest of her family. We praise God that the ministry of MMH has been able to reach out to other members of their community with the healing power of Jesus. Thank you Jesus for enlarging the territory of MMH!
March 2009 Prayers
Praise God for:
- Accessible medical care, which is now available to the children and members of the community through the Cargo Human Care Medical Centre located in the dorm building.
Prayer Requests:
- For Class VIII children as they prepare to sit for the Secondary School examinations
- For God’s guidance as plans get underway for a Technical High School
March 2009 News
With celebration, the Cargo Human Care Medical Centre was opened at Mother’s Mercy Home on Saturday, February 28th. On one end of the new two-story dorm building there is a large room on each floor. Located on the second floor is a common area for the boys and girls while the new Clinic is located on the first level.
Cargo Human Care of Lufthansa Airlines will be providing two medical specialists two weeks each month to staff the Clinic, which will be providing medical services to members of the community as well as to the children. For security reasons it is fenced in such a way that the children cannot go around to the clinic unnoticed and the people from the community cannot go around to the children’s dormitories unnoticed. We are thankful to The Lord that regular medical treatment will be so readily available to the children.
Children in Class VIII are having a very challenging year as they prepare to sit for the Secondary School examinations. This is a very momentous time in their lives as it makes a tremendous difference in their future educational opportunities.
The next big project for Mothers’ Mercy Home is planning for a Technical High School. They ask us to join them in praying for God’s guidance in this endeavor.
February 2009 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The many blessings God bestowed on the children and staff of Mothers’ Mercy Home as they enjoyed their best year yet during 2008
- The many people around the world who have supported MMH since its beginning in 2001
- The opening of the Medical Centre on February 28th
Prayer Requests:
- For God’s safety and protection of the children at MMH and at their schools during this term.
- That the Lord may enlarge the territory of Mothers’ Mercy Home
February 2009 News
The children and staff celebrated their “ best Christmas Party ever” on December 23rd after returning from time with their guardians December 2nd to 20th. After the children were smartly dressed and a delicious lunch, snacks and drinks were packed, they boarded their bus at 10 am and went off singing their hearts out to Mamba Village. On arriving the children were given a quided tour, which explained all about the crocodiles and other points of interest in the Village. They were able to enjoy a boat ride, a horse ride and other activities. After exchanging jokes during lunch
it was time for the cutting of the Christmas Cake! The day ended with happy children dancing in the big hall of the Village. Children and staff were reluctant to leave but memories of that wonderful day are still fresh in their minds.
On Christmas Day the children opened their greetings from Partners and Awana children with wide smiles and excitement. A very good lunch and other goodies followed.
Paula Karanja informs us that they are looking forward to the opening of the Medical Centre on February 28th. This will allow the children and the community around to be able to access medical care in a timely manner. Cargo Human Care will be sending two specialists two weeks each month to staff the Centre.
The Mothers’ Union believes that 2008 was the best year yet for the children of Mothers’ Mercy Home. They thank God for giving them friends like us who have enabled them to achieve what now is available for the children. They send their love and prayers and wish the whole St. Thomas congregation and all the Partners a peaceful and fruitful New Year, 2009.
December 2008 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The life of Eugenia (77) sister of Paula Karanja, who went to be with the Lord on October 19th.
- The faith and dedication of the 500 new women enrolled in the Mothers’ Union on October 25th.
- The commitment made by the 13 boys and 12 girls who were confirmed by Bishop Ranji on October 26th.
- His blessing on the Mothers’ Mercy Home Development Fund Drive on November 15th
- The Dedication and Moving In Day at the new dorm on November 29th.
Prayer Requests:
- That the children and their families/guardians will be blessed during their two weeks together in December.
- That the children and staff of MMH will experience the love and joy of Jesus during the Christmas Season
December 2008 News
On October 26th, 13 boys and 12 girls of Mothers’ Mercy Home made an informed commitment to their faith as they were confirmed by Bishop Timothy Ranji. We pray that with the empowering of the Holy Spirit they will have the courage, patience, vision and strength to serve God in their home, school and community.
As you read this, many big events will have taken place this fall that impact MMH. It is the women of the Mothers’ Union of the archdeaconries of the Diocese of Mt. Kenya South who support the ministry of MMH. On October 25th it was a glorious occasion as 500 new women were enrolled in the Union. Praise be to God! On November 15th the Mothers’ Mercy Home Development Fund Drive took place. Each of the women was requested to raise about $15 towards the cost of the new dorms. We pray that God blessed the day. And the greatest event of all was the Dedication, Grand Opening and Move in Day at the new dorms on November 29th. We can just imagine the anticipation and excitement of the children as they moved into this sturdy and functional new building. Thanks and praise to God and thanks to all those who gave of their time, talent and treasure to make this dream possible. (Special thanks to all who supported Pete Zaborski in his climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro, which benefited the building of the dorm.)
December is school vacation time in Kenya and the children will return to their homes and guardians for about 2 weeks beginning December 2nd. Then back to MMH where Christmas will be celebrated on December 24th. This is the time the children will receive the Christmas greetings sent by their Partners and the children of Awana. May the JOY of JESUS be with all the children and staff during this Christmas Season.
November 2008 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The safety and protection of Bishop Ranji and his team as they climbed Mt. Kilimanjaro
- The return to health of all the children following an outbreak of flu in September
- The safety and protection of the 62 workers who labored in the building of the new dormitory
- For all those who contributed treasure, time or talent for the building of the dorm
- The completion of the dorm and it’s dedication on November 29th
Prayer Requests:
- That The Lord will greatly bless the Mothers’ Mercy Home Development Fund Day on November 15th
- That the children’s move into the new dorm will be a joyous occasion for them
November 2008 News
 |
The New Dorm Under Construction |
We can report that all the children are now well following an outbreak of flu in September that affected at least 8 of the children. They are attending their various primary schools and most of them continue to outshine the other children in their classes. The garden is green, providing all the vegetables that the children need, and the cows are producing enough milk for the entire Home. Two goats provide nutritious milk for the four children who are HIV positive. The chickens, that some of our Partnership money provided feed for, are giving 70% egg production and each child now gets at least 3 eggs in their diet each week. There are also extra eggs that are sold so that the necessary chicken feed can be purchased. The women of the Mothers’ Union and members of their congregations in each Archdeaconry continue to provide funds to provide other food that needs to be purchased. The children are growing tall. God is faithful and has continued to take care of the 84 children.
Mothers’ Mercy Home Development Fund Day will take place on November 15th. Each woman of the Mothers’ Union is requested to try and raise 1000 shillings (about $15) and bring it on that day. Funds are needed to reach the 25% of the total cost of the new dorms that they are responsible for and to purchase two pieces of land adjacent to MMH to avoid them being bought for noisy bars or lodgings that would be detrimental to the children.
November 29th is the long anticipated day when the new dormitory will be dedicated and the children will move in. PRAISE BE TO GOD!
October 2008 Prayers
Praise God for:
- Pete’s Zaborski’s successful climb to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro
- His blessings on Lynne Keller as she spent time with members of the Mothers’ Union, the staff and children of Mothers’ Mercy Home
- The safe travel of Pete and Lynne
- All those who contributed to the Climb, raising nearly $20,000 for the completion of the MMH Dorm
Prayer Requests:
- That finishing work may be done so the children can move into the Dorm this month
- That The Lord will utilize the staff in a powerful way in continuing to bring faith, hope and love to the current 84 children
October 2008 News
The entire Mothers’ Mercy Home Partnership Board, and especially Pete Zaborski and Lynne Keller, thank all of you who provided prayer and spiritual support as well as financial support of Pete’s Mt. Kilimanjaro Climb and Lynne’s relational trip to the Diocese of Mt. Kenya South and Mothers’ Mercy Home. Pete states that during his arduous journey to the top of the Mt. he could feel when folks were praying for him and the team. We are only a few dollars shy of reaching the financial goal of $20,000 (a dollar for each foot of the nearly 20,000 foot Mt.) for the completion of the dorms. Lynne reports that the very nicely designed permanent dorms are nearly done and the children may be able to move in during October as originally planned. The new dorm will allow MMH the possibility of increasing their capacity to 150, allowing them to serve more than 75% more children. However Lynne states that more buildings need renovation and more land needs to be acquired to sustain a positive growth.
Lynne had the opportunity to reunite with our friends in Kenya and establish new bonds as well. She was able to get new pictures of the growing children and has returned with notes from them, which will be distributed to their Partners.
To hear more about Pete’s Climb, the purpose of which was to increase awareness of the ministry of MMH and to raise funds, be present in Church on Sunday, October 5th at either the 8 or 10 am service. Hear his story of what God did with Pete and the other six climbers in their party during that week on the Mt.
We ask for your continued prayers for this ministry which reaches out to God’s African children, that otherwise would have little hope for the future. In the Name of Jesus, we thank you.
September 2008 Prayers
Praise God for:
- Bishop Ranji, Pete Zaborski, and the others whose love of the Lord and commitment to provide new dorms for the children of MMH motivates them to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro September 1st through 5th
- Members of St. Thomas, Partners and others who have given with love and generosity to support this Climb
- Lynne Keller’s gift of representing our MMH Partnership Program Board to the women of the Mother’s Union, the children and the staff.
Prayer Requests:
- For Pete and Lynne that they may have safe travel and be protected from all dangers while in Kenya/Tanzania (Aug. 27- Sept.11)
- That Pete may have peace, strength and endurance as he climbs the Mt.
- That Lynne’s time in Kenya will be a blessing to her as well as to the children and staff of MMH and the women of the Mothers’ Union.
September 2008 News
NEWS OF MOTHERS’ MERCY HOME: Pete Zaborski and Lynne Keller are going to Kenya. They are scheduled to leave from Outagamie Airport on Wednesday morning, August 27th at 9:21 am and arrive in Nairobi, Kenya on Thursday evening at 6:10 pm Kenyan time (seven hours ahead of us.)
They will have a couple days to meet their hosts and recover from their journey. On Sunday, August 31st at St. Paul’s Church, Kiambu, there will be a Prayer Service and send off for Bishop Ranji, Pete and the other climbers. They will then travel to Moshi, Tanzania, the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro, and stay overnight at a hotel Sunday evening. Early Monday morning they will begin their six day climb (and descent) which will last through Saturday. They will remain at the base Saturday evening and return to Kiambu on Sunday, September 7th.
Please continue to hold Pete, the Bishop and other climbers in your prayers, that they may remain safe and that The Lord will be glorified as they do this to raise awareness of the needs of the children of Mothers’ Mercy Home and to raise funds for the continued building of the new permanent dormitory for the 84 children. Once the dorm is completed MMH’s capacity will be increased by over 50%. This will enable them to provide a loving, safe and caring Christian environment for more children in need.
Meanwhile, Lynne will be meeting with the women of the Mothers’ Union and the staff of Mothers’ Mercy Home. She will have the opportunity to see how the building of the new dormitory is coming along and to witness any changes because of our Partnering Program begun April 2007. But most importantly of all, she will meet the children, the beautiful, enthusiastic and loving children of MMH.
We all look forward to having Pete and Lynne safely back with us after their journey and hearing about what The Lord has been doing in Kenya. Be present on Sunday, October 5th to hear Pete and Lynne share their experiences.
August 2008 Prayers
Praise God for:
- Bishop Ranji, Pete Zaborski, and the others whose love of the Lord and commitment to provide new dorms for the children of MMH motivates them to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro September 1st through 5th
- Members of St. Thomas, Partners and others who have given with love and generosity to support this Climb
- Lynne Keller’s gift of representing our MMH Partnership Program Board to the women of the Mother’s Union, the children and the staff.
Prayer Requests:
- For Pete and Lynne that they may have safe travel and be protected from all dangers while in Kenya/Tanzania (Aug. 27- Sept.11)
- That Pete may have peace, strength and endurance as he climbs the Mt.
- That Lynne’s time in Kenya will be a blessing to her as well as to the children and staff of MMH and the women of the Mothers’ Union.
August 2008 News
The date, August 27th, is fast approaching when Pete Zaborski will be boarding a plane for a five-stage flight to Nairobi, Kenya. Over the past few months Pete has been preparing for a five day climb up the almost 20,000 foot Mt. Kilimanjaro. Why would he be taking part in this adventure?
He boldly states that God has called him to participate in this Climb with Bishop Ranji of the Diocese of Mt. Kenya South. The 84 children of Mothers’ Mercy Home currently live in temporary dormitories for which insurance cannot be obtained. Generous German benefactors from Lufthansa Airlines Human Cargo have agreed to provide 75% of the cost of new permanent dorms for which ground was broken in April 2008. Bishop Ranji and the people of his Diocese need to raise the remaining construction cost, about $90,000. The Bishop is securing pledges for his Climb to raise this money. Pete and the Mothers’ Mercy Home Partnership Program Board hope to assist the Bishop by raising $20,000, one dollar for every foot of the mountain Pete will be climbing.
Lynne Keller, a member of the MMH Partnership Board, will be accompanying Pete to Kenya. She will have the wonderful opportunity to meet the women of the Mothers’ Union who began the Home and who continue to administer it. She will get to know the children and staff and experience the difference our Partnership Program donations have made in the lives of the children.
We ask your prayers for safe travel for Pete and Lynn and that Pete may have God’s peace, strength and endurance as he climbs. Many people have already participated in the effort to reach the $20,000 Goal. If you have not done so, please consider if God is calling you to help. Donations may be made to St. Thomas Church, Kilimanjaro Climb.
July 2008 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The public affirmation of faith and commitment made by the 45 MMH children who were confirmed this past year.
- The UK benefactors who provided the new MMH bus which was dedicated on Monday, June 15, 2008. The children will now have safe transportation to and from school and for educational/recreational outings.
Prayer Requests:
- For the safety and success of Bishop Ranji’s September Climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro which is intended to raise 25% (over $90,000) of the cost of the new permanent dorms.
- For spiritual, physical, and mental strength for Pete Zaborski as he travels to and from Kenya and joins Bishop Ranji on this Fundraiser Climb.
June 2008 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The 7th anniversary celebration of the ministry of Mothers’ Mercy Home (MMH) attended by 800 Mothers’ Union women on Saturday, May 3, 2008.
- The delightful letters received by Partners, AWANA children and women of Lawrence University InterVarsity from the children of MMH.
- The delayed but safe delivery of Easter Greetings to the children that were presented to them on May 2nd.
- The years of faithful service of Eunice Wanjiru Mbugua, nurse/social worker, who finally retired in April (had been scheduled to retire in August, 2007).
Prayer Requests:
- That The Lord may provide the right person with nursing background to replace Eunice.
- For the safety and success of Bishop Ranji’s September Climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro which is intended to raise 25% of the cost of the dorms ($91,000).
- That the political situation in Kenya will be safe for Pete Zaborski to join Bishop Ranji on this Fundraiser Climb.
June 2008 News
From the St. Thomas Lamplighter Newsletter
This month we would like to share the daily school day schedule of Sonia Wanjiru, who is a 13 year old girl who lives at Mothers’ Mercy Home and attends Karura Primary School. Sonia awakes early at 4:30 am, and after bathing, dressing and making her bed has breakfast at 5 am. Morning devotions are held from 5:30 to 6 and then the school van arrives to take Sonia and the other children to their respective schools. She arrives at Karura School about 6:55 and attends morning preps (like our study hall) from 7 –8. Following a school assembly from 8 – 8:30 the morning is divided into 6 lesson periods of 35 minutes each with one 15-minute break and one 35-minute break. From 12:50 pm to 1:30 pm Sonia enjoys the lunch which she has brought from MMH and then has 15 minutes to relax. This is followed by two more lesson periods, a 20-minute break and then another hour of evening preps (study hall) from 3:10 to 4:10. Following another short 5-minute assembly the van arrives to take her back to MMH. As you can see she is at school almost 9 ½ hours each day.
After arriving back at MMH she spends about an hour washing her socks, cleaning her school shoes and preparing her school uniform for the next day before having supper from 6 to 6:30 pm. She then works on her homework. From 7-8 there are 3 qualified teachers on hand to help the children with their evening preps (study hall). And then it’s off to bed about 8:05 to get a good night’s sleep and be ready for the next day of school.
Children at Mothers’ Mercy Home are learning to be proficient in three languages: their tribal Kikuyu, Swahili, and English. Though this sounds like a pretty heavy schedule Sonia states “life is good and refreshing at Mothers’ Mercy Home.”
May 2008 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The groundbreaking of the permanent dormitories on Friday April 11th.
- The many individuals, churches and organizations that pray for and support the children and staff of Mothers’ Mercy Home.
Prayer Requests:
- For the safety and success of Bishop Ranji’s September Climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro which is intended to raise 25% of the cost of the dorms ($91,000).
- That the political situation in Kenya will be safe for Pete Zaborski to join Bishop Ranji on this Fundraiser Climb.
- For the continued health and safety of the children, that they may do well in their studies and that they may grow in their relationship with Jesus Christ.
May 2008 News
From the St. Thomas Lamplighter Newsletter
 This month we would like you to get to know Charles Muigai, who has been employed as the Social Worker/Child Caretaker at Mothers’ Mercy Home since January, 2006. Sending “Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” Charles states he a born again Christian. He is a 25-year-old single man and the first born in a family of six. His siblings attend school and college.
Studying Social Work/Community Development he demonstrated responsibility, patience, initiative, social ability and was result oriented. In this his first position, his duties include caring for and counseling the children; identifying and implementing programs that can improve the children’s lives; ensuring the children’s rights and responsibilities are well known and practiced by staff, volunteers and children; and identifying and assessing any special needs of children and responding to them accordingly. He also supervises the duties of the children and writes quarterly reports on each child.
Charles states that working as a Social Worker he must be fully devoted and patient at all times. Challenges of the position include working long hours, ensuring that all daily activities are done correctly for the benefit of the children, and working in many different fields for the sake of the children. He gives thanks to God for giving him an opportunity to serve Him at MMH. He is grateful for God’s grace and blessing to do the tasks that He has chosen for him to perform at this time. “I give all glory to God.”
April 2008 Prayers
Praise God for:
- “Cargo Human Care” from Lufthansa Airline of Germany, which is going to provide 75% of the cost of new dormitories for the boys and girls.
- The dedicated staff members of Mothers’ Mercy Home who give so much of themselves for the children.
Prayer Requests:
- For the success of Bishop Ranji’s September Climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro which is intended to raise the additional 25% of the cost of the dorms.
- Continue prayer for Godfrey Wabui, a former child at MMH, who has been ill with AIDS since 2004. Now at home with his guardians he is unable to walk or talk.
- For the continued health and safety of the children, that they may do well in their studies and that they develop or continue a personal relationship with Jesus Christ.
April 2008 News
From the St. Thomas Lamplighter Newsletter
We have recently heard that the new girls and boys dormitories to be built to replace the temporary dorms will be a joint project of friends from Germany associated with Lufthansa Airlines and the women of the Mothers’ Union who administer the Home. “Cargo Human Care” will be providing 75 % of the total cost of construction with the other 25% to be raised by the Mothers’ Union. The estimated cost is 20 to 22 million shillings so the 25 % to be raised by the women is approximately 91,000 US dollars. The purpose of Bishop Ranji’s climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro in September is to help raise these funds. The Mothers’ Mercy Home Partnership Board is planning activities to support this endeavor. The new dorms will each house 64 children, which will increase the capacity of MMH by 44 children. Provision of these new dorms is a necessity, as presently no insurance company will insure the temporary buildings.
 We would like to continue to help you get to know the staff of Mothers’ Mercy Home. Hannah Nyambura Kinuthia began employment at Mothers’ Mercy Home in June 2007 as a Grounds Keeper. She is a 44 year old widow with seven children who proclaims she is a born again Christian. She takes care of the compound and the multipurpose hall ensuring they are clean at all times. In addition to those duties she sells water from the Mothers’ Mercy Home Water Kiosk. She says her greatest challenge is when she has many customers to serve at the Water Kiosk while her cleaning/washing duties of the compound and hall await her service. She tries her best to cope with the situation and she does enjoy her day-to-day work and shall continue to work joyfully. Since obtaining this position she has been able to provide for the basic needs of her seven children single handedly. She sends us God’s blessings.
Please continue to pray for the staff that so lovingly cares for the 84 children.
March 2008 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The children now being back at MMH and attending school after their delayed return (due to political turmoil) following the Christmas Holidays.
- The continued service of Eunice, nurse/ social worker/ administrator, who was to retire in August 2007. (Has stayed on in lieu of a suitable replacement being found.)
- The $405 raised towards the purchase of a stove by the women of Lawrence University InterVarsity.
Prayer Requests:
- For the thousands of refugees in camps throughout Kenya due to the political turmoil and violence.
- For the successful completion of permanent dormitories by October 2008.
- For the hiring of a suitable replacement for Eunice.
- For Godfrey Wabui, a former child at MMH, who has been ill with AIDS since 2004. Now at home with his guardians he is unable to walk or talk.
- For the provision of a generator and a stove.
March 2008 News
From the St. Thomas Lamplighter Newsletter
Because of the political turmoil and violence following the end of December elections in Kenya, many of the children were late in returning to Mothers’ Mercy Home following the Christmas vacation. However, by January 14th most were back and returned to school. Paula Karanja asks that we pray for the thousands of people who have fled their homes and are currently in refugee camps throughout the country.
Eunice Wanjiru Mbugua, the nurse, social worker, administrator, who had planned to retire in August of 2007, has been staying on in that position until a suitable replacement can be hired. Paula writes that the hope is that the permanent dormitories for the children will be completed by October of this year and this would provide suitable accommodations for the new person hired.
 A stove to replace the wood burning stove now being used is on the wish list of Mothers’ Mercy Home staff, particularly Joel Ng’ang’a, the cook. We praise God for the wonderful women of Lawrence University InterVarsity who have raised $405 for this project. We have learned that a suitable stove that would be made locally would cost about 200,000 shillings. Though the rate of exchange is never constant, at 70 shillings per American dollar, the entire cost would be $2,857.
Partners of the children here in the United States have prepared Easter greetings, which will be sent to Kenya and delivered to each of the children. We pray that The Lord will continue to provide their basic needs, keep them healthy and well, make them open and receptive to what they are being taught in school, and surround them with His all encompassing love.
February 2008 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The provision of a commercial washing machine by a German friend of Mothers’ Mercy Home
- The friends in various parts of the world who provide prayer and material support to the staff and children of Mothers’ Mercy Home
- For the improved health of Catherine, 10, who is HIV positive
- For the safe delivery of a baby boy to Mary Nduta, Boy’s Dorm Mother, on December 6th, 2007
Prayer Requests:
- For the resolution of the Kenyan election controversy, an end to the violence, and the safety of the children and staff of Mothers’ Mercy Home.
- For Godfrey Wabui, a former child at MMH, who has been ill with AIDS since 2004. Now at home with his guardians he is unable to walk or talk.
- For a generator to provide power when the electrical system fails
February 2008 News
From the St. Thomas Lamplighter Newsletter
Paula Karanja writes that following the December 27th Kenyan election and the ensuing violence “our country is slowly healing and your prayers have been our strength.” Please continue to pray for the complete end to the violence, resolution of the election controversy, and for the safety of the children and staff of Mothers’ Mercy Home. (MMH)
We are delighted to report that a friend of MMH from Germany has offered to provide a commercial washing machine. God willing, the plan is to increase the number of children to 130 and this machine will be adequate to care for the clothes of all the children. Another major item that would greatly benefit the children would be a generator. Anyone that has been to Kenya knows that the electric power is not the most reliable. When the lights go off, as the children are getting ready for school in the near darkness of the morning, apparently some of the children like to sneak back to their beds for quick naps.
Traveling many miles on bad roads, Paula and Charles, the Social Worker, spent 11 days in December visiting each of the children in the homes of their guardians. She stated that many of the children are so very poor that they had no words and tears dropped when they saw their living conditions. The children reported back to MMH on January 4th and
returned to school January 7th. The plan for next year is that the children will remain at MMH for Christmas week and then just have a brief time with their guardians before reporting back to MMH.
 January 2008 Prayers
Praise God for:
- The continuing health of Eli, 9, Elizabeth, 10, and Peter, 11 who are infected with HIV
- The introductions and Christmas greetings sent by Partners (currently 52)
- The children in their new school term as they return to Mothers’ Mercy Home in January
Prayer Requests:
- For Catherine, 10, who has been ill recently due to her HIV status
- For the safe delivery of Boys’ Dorm Mother Mary Nduta’s child
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Two very important women at Mothers’ Mercy Home are the Dorm Mothers 
Joel Ng’ang’a
