Sanders October 2025

“I thank my God in all my remembrance of you” (Philippians 1:3).

We are constantly mindful of a quote from Hudson Taylor, missionary to China, “There are three stages to every great work of God; first it is impossible, then it is difficult, then it is done.”

These past three months we can honestly say that as we have reflected on the impossible, and experienced the difficult, we find ourselves fast approaching “the done”—for this time of preparation to go; and are left saying, Thank you, Lord!

Yet, we are not alone in experiencing mighty works of God in our lives. We want to share with you an update from Ethiopia that our colleague, Esther Honegger, recently shared in her newsletter.

The school year ended in early July and culminated in a graduation ceremony for our second class of seniors. During their last week at Rafiki, these students were intentional in expressing their gratitude to the mothers, teachers, missionaries, and others who loved, disciplined, and guided them throughout their years at Rafiki. On the eve of their departure, the new graduates led a goodbye devotion program focused on remembering God’s goodness in their lives and encouraging the remaining residents to do the same. Some of their reflections about God’s good gifts in their life were:

- “Mr. Doug and Ms. Carolyn helped show us the joy of worshipping God.”

- “Teachers and missionaries disciplined me when I had a bad attitude and now, I see how it was for my benefit.”

- “I learned about the forgiveness of God through the Rafiki leaders.”

- “I got to learn the Bible daily and I have lifelong friends.”

And the list goes on! What a joy it is to see some of the fruit of our labor of loving investment into these students.

Esther giving the headmaster’s speech at graduation.

Rafiki Ethiopia Class of 2025 on their senior outing.

Wonderful works of God!—not finished, but moving on to the next work of God, the next impossible in their lives.

We praise God for His faithfulness. As we write this letter, we are closing in on 45% of our first-year support raised or pledged. Also, an offer is in process on our home, which is cause for praise and thanksgiving.

Prayer Requests

• Doug and Carolyn as they plan to transition back to the U.S.
• For Esther as she provides leadership to the ChildCare Program and the Rafiki School.
• For our visas to be granted.
• For twenty more missionaries to go and serve—the harvest is great, but the laborers are few.

Your prayers are invaluable, and your support is such a blessing. 

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