Dafoe August 2025

July beauty

Dear friends and family,

Rafiki Village Zambia has had the blessing of a number of Short-Term Missionaries (STM) recently. A STM is one who has 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, and some as a part of a larger group.

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

Debbie Needham worked with the RICE students for two months (left)

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. Some shared their expertise helping 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. Some use their crafty skills to refurbish furniture to make the school look more beautiful. Some plan Fun Friday activities for the school students. Some used their coaching skills to sharpen up our basketball team before a competition. Others help process library books. I could go on and on with examples.

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!

More fun on the playground thanks to the STMs

Short-term missionaries helping make beauty from old things, better readers, and better hoopsters

The next training opportunity is October 25. For more information, go to www.RafikiFoundation.org/go. If you are not able to attend, 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.

Do not miss out on an opportunity of a lifetime! We love to share the blessings!

I remain grateful for your prayers and always love to hear from you!

I am pictured here with my pastor, his wife and STMs

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