Allinder February 2025

“For we are God’s fellow workers…” (1 Corinthians 3:9).

Greetings from Zambia where we are singing the old hymn “There will be showers of blessings, this is a promise of God.” Last year was basically a year of drought throughout the country, resulting in economic hardship, some food shortages, and power cuts (our electric grid is all hydroelectric). Thankfully, January 2025 has seen the return of the rains and we all rejoice. While we are not singing “the corn is as high as an elephant’s eye,” the maize is looking really good.

While 2024 did not see the blessing of rain, here at the Rafiki Village Zambia we had the blessing of short-term missionaries (STM). A STM is one who attends a training from the Rafiki Home Office, and then comes to a Rafiki Village for two weeks to three months (or longer!). Some come individually, some with family or friends, some as a part of a larger group.

What does a STM do? First and foremost, they share their love for the Lord with staff, teachers, Rafiki Mothers, and students at our school and teacher’s college (Rafiki Institute of Classical Education).

They also use their unique skills and experience in a wide range of ways. Last year, some STMs used their background in water management to help us locate the best place to put a new well. Others used their carpentry skills to make playground equipment. 

More fun on the playground thanks to the STMs

Some shared their expertise and helped teachers become more proficient in content areas like reading. Many STMs look forward to joining early childhood and primary classes for the daily read-aloud times. 

Better readers thanks to the STM who helped our teachers

Some use their crafty skills to refurbish furniture to make the school look more beautiful. 

Beauty from old things thanks to the STMs

Some plan Fun Friday activities for the school to give students. Some used their coaching skills to sharpen up our basketball team before a competition. 

Much improved hoopsters thanks to the STM

Others help process library books. And I could go on and on. 

I sometimes meet people who feel they are not “qualified” to be a STM. Nothing could be further from the truth. If you can wield a paint brush, read with a student, review math concepts, fix an engine, beautify the campus, catalog library books, etc., etc., etc., you are qualified. If you love the Lord and want to share that with new friends you will make at the Village, you are more than qualified! 

The next training opportunity is May 17. For more information, go to www.RafikiFoundation.org/opportunities. If you are not able to go, please consider supporting Rafiki through prayer and/or financial giving to others who are committed to short-term and long-term service to the Lord at a Rafiki Village. 

Please click here for a printer friendly version of this newsletter.