Kropf August 2025

We are grateful for your continued prayers and support as we serve with the Rafiki Foundation here in Eustis, Florida. It has been a busy and rewarding season, and we are excited to share what God has been doing in, and through, our ministry.

Del has been actively involved in helping expand the Rafiki Classical Academy (RCA), which began offering classical Christian education two years ago on the Rafiki campus here in Eustis. The school has quickly grown—we are currently operating out of three buildings. In addition to this, we are in the process of securing permits for up to five mobile classrooms. While the permitting process has been slow, it has been a lesson in patience and trust in God’s timing. Long term, we are also beginning to raise funds for a permanent school building on campus, and we are encouraged by the vision God has placed before us.

Beyond construction work, Del also plays a key role in logistics for all ten Rafiki Villages across Africa. This year alone, he has helped coordinate the purchasing, processing, and shipping of about seventeen containers. One particularly meaningful aspect of this work is partnering with Ligonier Ministries and Crossway to ship Bibles to the Villages—helping to distribute God’s Word to those who are hungry for it is an incredible privilege. Del also assists with transportation, regularly driving missionaries and guests to and from the Orlando International Airport.

Del taking Amy and Tekle to the airport

A recent highlight was spending time with fellow missionaries, Amy and Tekle, who were stateside awaiting a new assignment. We were blessed to deepen our friendship with them during their time here before they were stationed in our Rafiki Village in Moshi, Tanzania.

Lisa continues to travel with the Rafiki Home Office three times a year, visiting all ten Rafiki Villages. She has already completed two trips in 2025, and is preparing for her third, scheduled for September through early October. These trips are fast-paced and full of purpose, typically covering four to six countries in just two to three weeks. Though the schedule is demanding, Lisa finds great joy in spending time in the Villages working closely with national staff and students, and encouraging those serving on the ground.

Lisa visiting graduates in Nigeria

One of our Orphans in Nigeria who is now a school nurse

Locally, Lisa is also leading a women’s Bible study in our neighborhood using the Rafiki Bible Study (RBS). After taking a short summer break, the group has resumed and is currently studying the Book of Joshua. We are encouraged to see sixteen women regularly attending and growing in their faith together through God’s Word. Consider starting a Bible study using the RBS in your church or neighborhood.

This past July, we were incredibly thankful for the opportunity to fly home (thanks to direct Allegiant flights!) to celebrate our granddaughter’s first birthday. It was such a joy to be with our family and witness that special milestone.

Del and Della at her first birthday

Thank you for walking with us in this ministry through your prayers, encouragement, and support. We are continually reminded of God’s faithfulness, and we are grateful to be part of what He is doing through Rafiki, both here and across Africa.

Praises

• Lisa’s last trip to Africa went well. She remained healthy and had the opportunity to visit several of our orphans who are attending university.
• God’s continuing equipping us for the work we are doing here at Rafiki. After spending many years out of the workforce, Lisa has been working to improve her computer skills.
• We thank God for FaceTime to be able to see and talk with family.

Prayer Requests

• Lisa’s travels to Africa with the Home Office September 19 through October 10. Pray for a productive time at work before she leaves and health, safety, opportunities, and words of encouragement as they visit six countries.
• Del to continue to grow in the work here at Rafiki. God’s leading for continued areas of service.
• Our youngest son Joel has been living with us this past year. He recently finished a vocational course in electricity and has begun looking for work. Please pray for a good job for him.
• 20 new missionaries to join Rafiki to go and serve long term.

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