Adumo September 2024

“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ’s sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed” (1 Peter 4:12-13).

Sanu from Nigeria!

We are always happy to share a glimpse of what God has done through us in this ministry. Much has happened in this last quarter so I will try my best not to leave anything out. First, I want to plead with you to stop reading and say a word of prayer for our country. Nigeria is in an economic redzone like I have never seen. I know this is not my usual positive and encouraging opening to our newsletter, but if all you do is pray, what more can we ask? Pray for the faith of believers who are constantly being tested and persecuted because of their faith. Pray for God’s provision of safety, food, clean water, and protection. Our staff is a picture of resilience, so join us in thanking God for many of you who have become donors and quite literally play a role in their livelihood. We do not take it lightly and they send their deepest appreciation.

This year, we saw God’s faithfulness in a new light. My mother was finally able to come visit us! After four years of marriage and six years of being away, she finally got to be a part of what I call home. We took her everywhere, but if you know her, you know her heart was set on service. She spent time in our preschool, the widow’s ministry in town, and Carry Them Ministries where she helped newborn babies get food and clothing. Before heading back to the U.S., we were able to take her to Ishaku’s village to meet our entire family. There were lots of laughs, hugs, and rejoicing over a much-anticipated union. Pray for her as she settles back in at home.

Me, Ishaku, and our mothers

In the Rafiki Secondary School, Nigeria, we just celebrated our tenth graduation ceremony. It was truly a testament to the goodness of God. All the students were beaming with joy as they walked across the stage to collect their diplomas. The parents spoke to the peace they have knowing their children were educated under our care, and the Minister of Education celebrated the success of the school. Pray that as the school grows (we now have 465 students and fifty teaching staff), that God would keep my eyes, and intentions set on Him. Pray that everything I do would be for Him alone.

In the Maintenance Department, Ishaku and the guys are always busy repairing, rebuilding, or creating something new for the Village. This year, he and the team installed new lighting in the preschool. It was shocking the difference it made, but for most classrooms in Nigeria, there is no electricity, much less good lighting. Our children are so blessed by the service of the staff here. There was lots of shrieking of joy in the preschool when they came for the fourth semester to new classrooms. Pray that God would continue to move in the lives of all our non-academic staff and give Ishaku endless opportunities to share the gospel with them in word and deed.

Preschool classroom

In the Preschool, the teachers and children celebrated their tribes recently, and honestly it was so fun to see them all in their tribal dress for the day. We get so accustomed to western clothes and culture, that I can easily forget about the richness found deeply rooted in the culture of Nigeria. There are over fifty ethnic groups represented in Plateau State, and over 400 in Nigeria at large. Please be in prayer for those tribes that have yet to hear the gospel of Christ and for those of our students who will hopefully go out and be the catalyst of their salvation.

Teachers in tribal dress

In Educational Outreach this month, we welcomed more than ten schools to the implementation of the Rafiki Education System. I have mentioned in the past that our curriculum is written from a biblical worldview and godliness is woven throughout every unit. It is always a celebration when a new school reaches out because they are interested in purchasing it. Additionally, I was recently invited by the Evangelical Church Winning All (ECWA) as a guest speaker. This is one of the largest denominations in Africa and has made waves in many states in the U.S. I spoke at their Annual Administrator’s Conference about the importance of teaching with God at the center of instruction. It was a unique opportunity for me to meet educational leaders from all over the country. Nigeria’s population is over 200 million, so to meet someone from every state was indeed special. Please pray that the seeds I planted in the hearts and minds of those principals bear lasting fruit all over the country.

Outreach schools

Speaking at ECWA

We are grateful for the way you have supported the work being done. Lives are changed by the gospel daily and God is being made known in marvelous ways. I pray that during this season, you would consider partnering with me and Ishaku monthly. If you are already a partner, I pray God gives you the words to share this ministry with a friend.

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