Wilson June 2026

“But as for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry” (2 Timothy 4:5).

Strengthening the school-home bonds

As we write this newsletter, the second term of school is now in full swing. In fact, we have almost reached the midway point of term two. The students are studying hard for midterm exams to ensure that the results reveal their full potential before the end of the grading period. The persistent prayers and productive Parent Teacher Fellowship have clearly been catalysts behind the newfound focus of parents and pupils.

During our recent informational meeting, parents’ questions and concerns were addressed. We also reviewed the Student Code of Conduct and shared new scientific data that proves too much screen time can actually stunt children’s cognitive development. This was alarming news for some and a paradigm shift for others, but everyone appreciated the reminder that parental oversight is paramount in light of today’s technology.

South Sudan “Lost Boys” survivor

Rafiki-Kenya was recently honored with a visit from Archbishop Abraham Nhiel. Teachers, students, and national workers from across the Village took pause to hear him share his testimony. After being orphaned during the Second Sudanese Civil War (1983–2005), nine-year old Abraham became part of a group known as “the Lost Boys.” Fleeing the fighting of hostile forces in southern Sudan, thousands of boys set off (many running barefoot) on what would become a 1,000-mile trek to stay alive.

The daily realities of starvation, dehydration, and illness were as deadly as the wildlife they encountered along the way. When forced to cross the Gilo River to escape the turmoil, many died by drowning, getting hit by stray bullets, or being devoured by crocodiles. Those who survived this ordeal continued moving without the emotional support of elders, enduring severe hardships, and witnessing the horrors of man’s inhumanity to man. Fewer than half survived the initial trek. But Abraham did, and the fact that he was still alive after these horrific experiences is what ultimately drew him to Christ. Now an ordained minister, Abraham works to share the hope of Christ and the way of forgiveness with the people of his homeland.

Nhiel’s Testimony

An assortment of “fruits”

As a result of their obedience, discipline, and God-given talent, our grammar school students earned first place in nine categories at this year’s Subcounty Music Festival: (Lower primary boy soloist; Upper primary boy soloist; Upper primary girl soloist; Negro spiritual boys choir; Negro spiritual girls choir; Original composition for mixed choir; Boys choir set piece; Mixed choir set piece; Lower primary piano solo). They were also awarded second place in two additional categories (Lower primary girl soloist; Girls choir set piece). This was the first round of a two-month competition, starting with a field of one hundred schools. Bravo, Maestro Felix for shaping the students’ hearts, minds, and abilities for the glory of God!

Maestro Felix shares insights at the Academic Clinic

Rosemary Jensen: a Good and Faithful Servant

Last but certainly not least, the Village celebrated the long and faithful life of Rafiki’s founder, who passed into glory on May 31 at the age of ninety-six. Born into the “silent generation” of 1929, she was anything but silent. She was a bold believer, a visionary, and a kingdom builder. Her life goal was to know God and help others to know Him.

To some, she was the “Rose of Africa.” To the academics, she was known by the honorary title: “Dr. Jensen.” To more than nine hundred orphans, she was “Shosho.” To the hundreds of nationals employed in ten different African countries, she was Mama Rafiki. To the missionaries that she charged to join her in the work, she was affectionately called Rosemary. We were honored to be “approved” and personally encouraged by her to serve God in this vineyard.

Visiting Rosemary

Rosemary at Enrichment

We praise God for

• The opportunities for spiritual growth, discipleship, and service being fostered through the upper school’s new House System (from Rafiki School Manual, “House System Purpose”).
• Rosemary’s example of obedience, humility, and service to God.
• The members of Houston Northwest Church, who recently came to serve and encourage us, the school staff, and students.

GL7B Home Science CHEFS!

Floridians and Texans—short-term missionaries supporting the work in Kenya

Prayer Requests

• The Spirit would work in each Rafiki student (and family), sustaining their hope and helping them to persevere, amid the nation’s challenges (Rom. 15:13).
• Twenty new long-term missionaries would join and serve with Rafiki.
• Additional ministry partners will come alongside us, to help cover expenses that are not met by our monthly support (i.e., health insurance, car maintenance, housing, utilities, etc.).

If you feel led to increase your giving or know someone who would like to support our mission in Kenya, please use/share the link to our donation page: https://RafikiFoundation.org/missionary-detail/theodore-and-crystal-wilson-ii-258.

“Mungu akubariki” (God bless you)!

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