Home Away From Home

In December, Chico’s Bidwell Presbyterian Church invited us to be part of their special Christmas Eve offering. As long-time supporters of New Life Children’s Homes, they wanted to financially invest in a project that would strengthen the capacity of the mission to care for orphaned children in Swaziland. Since the farm is in a very remote location, housing for missionaries has been an ongoing challenge. Bidwell Presbyterian Church decided to meet this need by funding the construction of two adjoining one-bedroom flats. The first flat is complete, and Tommy and I moved in last month. 

We are extremely thankful for the generosity of Bidwell Presbyterian Church. Living “on the farm” allows us to have a constant presence in the lives of the children here. In the evenings we’re able to give homework help, play soccer, and lead evening devotionals. On the weekends we can take the kids to the swimming hole, show movies, and host game nights. We really feel like we’re part of the farm family. 

Additionally, it is so nice to have the comfort of “our own” place here. The construction team—led by local construction guru, Bomber Sibandze—did a fantastic job, and thanks to the craftsmanship of our colleague Rob Taylor, we have beautiful tile in our bathroom and kitchen. It’s much more than we expected, and we feel very blessed! Each morning we are treated to an incredible African sunrise as we sip our coffee (Mandi) and tea (Tommy). 

Prayer Update: We give all PRAISE to Jesus for the healthy arrival of nephews John Joseph Tinsley (March 16) and Cardon Henry Quinn (April 25). We are just so delighted by them! 

Please pray for the teens we are taking on a youth retreat this weekend. We pray that they would be encouraged and challenged in their faith and that some would make a commitment to follow Christ.