Koepke March 2023

“And I am sure of this, that he who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ ” (Philippians 1:6).

Are you learning something new every day? This seems to be the norm here. From casting aluminum, to making a lathe that turned that casting into a pulley, to discovering new ways to find an underground water leak, every day is an adventure. Sometimes we get to do the job twice or three times until it is done right. Often, we have to pray before every attempt!

Joel is head of the maintenance department. He started here when Rafiki was under construction, 20 years ago. After that he joined the security guard team, and it was not long before it was discovered he has a knack for fixing things. Joel manages the daily repairs and helps with training the newer members of the team. Joel enrolled in Open University in January 2022. He is balancing the maintenance load along with pursuing a bachelor’s degree in IT. For all of you who have gone back to school while holding down a job, you know how busy his life is. And his kids are seeing firsthand that hard work is one of the foundations of success in life.

Joel

Kefas finished 12th grade at a local vocational high school and is now working with our maintenance team. He has begun a year of internship with us and is learning basic electrical, plumbing, and mechanical skills. Here he is working on the sliding door of a van. He loves working on cars and lawnmowers. He is a quick learner and seems to absorb everything we throw at him.

Kefas working on a van

A lot of hard work has gone into eliminating erosion on the West side of the property, where a small creek becomes a torrent during the rainy season. The first attempt did not solve the problem, but additional hardcore, a concrete cover, flume, and gabions will be in place before the next rainy season begins. The concrete is mixed on the ground and carried down the slope in 5-gallon buckets. We will see if it becomes a water park for the local kids to enjoy!

Pouring concrete

Last December, a dozen of our kids got baptized. They just celebrated their first Holy Communion service on March 5th. On the 4th, they gathered for several hours to explore what the Bible has to say about preparing our hearts before taking communion, and what characteristics are expected for those who are leaders in the church. Most of them are in the choir or serve as ushers or lay readers. Our kids are maturing in Christ!

NKST Church service

Have you thought about teaching a skill to the next generation? Sewing, proofreading, gardening, baking, accounting, childcare, etc. We all have something to offer. Often, we do not have to go very far to extend this kind of practical help. But if you are ready for an adventure, you can be certain that your skills would be appreciated at Rafiki Foundation. You may need to pray two or three times, just like we do. But God knows someone who needs you! And His reward far exceeds any we will see on this side of Heaven.

Doug teaching guitar

“For God is not unjust so as to overlook your work and the love that you have shown for his name in serving the saints, as you still do” (Hebrews 6:10).

We will be in the U.S. for furlough in April. We hope to see many of you. Either way, thank you for your prayers and support. The Nigerians we serve send their love and gratitude as well.

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