Kenya- The Day Before Departure

(the ACAC Kenya Missions Ministry Servant Team-
of which 9 are preparing to leave for Kenya tomorrow- 8/16/07)

SASA TUENDE! (that's Swahili for "now, let's go!") It was about a year ago that the first visit to Tenwek to serve with Gospel Messengers Chuck & Amy Bemm was made...and from that visit the interest in serving in Christ's name has seen a lot of interest and activity throughout ACAC. On August 16, nine members of the Kenya team will be traveling to Kenya for a two-week missions trip. Andy Gabig, Kevin Parker, Greg Sparks, John Lantz, Heather Birch, Rebecca Sparks, Anita Harnish, Jessica Turnbull and Deb Magness will be serving with Chuck, Amy and many Kenyan friends.

Two projects are on the docket: the construction of a roof at the Mosop Orphanage for a new classroom building and two village worship rallies featuring the Sparks. The ralllies are part of the country's "Spiritual Emphasis Week," a national holiday throughout the school system that celebrates Christianity. The team takes off August 16 from the 'Burgh > Chicago > London > Nairobi. A 21-hour flight and 30+ hours of travel! It's been five months of praying, planning and fundraising. Thanks to the many, many family, friends, ACAC congregation members and colleagues who have given of their time and resources to support this outreach of the Mosop orphans. To lend a tangible perspective of what the Lord has done through this ministry:

- More than $14,000 was raised for the new roof...which means the orphans now have a new school! Thanks ACAC and family and friends!
- More than 15 orphans will have their school fees taken care of for one-year of school study.
- More than 80 American children have sent over letters, drawings and photographs to the - Mosop orphans...and will receive a letter back from their Kenyan pen pal upon our return. Thanks Children's Ministry!
- We'll be carrying nearly 200 blankets for the babies at Tenwek Hospital. Thanks Heaven's Blankies and ladies bible study teams!
- The medical professionals in our congregation collected nearly 200 pounds of medical supplies that will be delivered to Tenwek Hospital.
- The ladies bible study group collected a long list of items for the Bemms to provide supplies over the coming year. Thanks ladies!