Greetings from Kenya #3

Jambo, friends!

Our first day at the schools has come to an end, and many of us are taking a few minutes to send emails before dinnertime. It was another good day - full of adventures and new experiences!

This morning, we got up for an early breakfast and left for BLISS (the secondary school) at 7:30. We were warmly greeted by the students and faculty alike. Morning devotions started at 7:45 with the raising of the Kenyan flag. The students then led a prayer time, and Ted Brokaw did a lovely job of sharing his reflections on Psalm 150. We were asked to introduce ourselves individually and tell the students what our occupation is in the US.

After devotions, half of the team stayed at BLISS to visit secondary classes while the rest of us went to Gichunge Primary School for the morning. Those of us at Gichunge were deeply moved by the between and warmth of the children as well as the poor conditions in which they go to school. The principal and teachers were very generous in introducing us to each class and giving us some time to interact with the children. We will go back tomorrow to begin some English lessons and activities with the youngest classes.

At BLISS, some of our team visited classes while others talked about lesson plan ideas with the teachers. This afternoon, a few of us met with the school counselor to talk about the needs of the students and how we can best support them. They face any number of challenges, but when you talk with them, it's clear how much they love school.

As you may know, Kenya has a presidential election coming up in a few weeks. Tonight they will have their first-ever presidential debate. We expect to join the staff here at the Thiiri Center as we all gather around the one television to watch the debate. It should be a fascinating experience!

Last evening after our devotion time, Gary handed out letters from our prayer partners at church. I think we all felt touched and supported by the letters we received. They were good reminders of the many people back home that we know are thinking of us, praying for us, and holding us in the light of God's love while we are gone. Thank you!

God's peace to you,
Nancy Lynn for the whole mission team