August 2007

Dear Friends,

The Very Reverend B. retired as moderator of the Presbyterian church of East Africa more than 12 years ago. Well along in years, he and his wife returned to their up-country home located about two hours north of Nairobi. But they didn’t “settle down.” Instead, they challenged the leadership of their country church to begin reaching out to the very poor children around them who were unable to get even one square meal a day.

Mealtime at the Reverend B's church a two-hour drive north of Nairobi, Kenya.

A shed was erected in the back of the church property, and tables and chairs were constructed. The women of the church began cooking, and the land surrounding the church was turned into vegetable gardens. Fruit trees were planted. Members began bringing produce from their own farms, and everyone began reaching into their pockets. The children came in ever-increasing numbers to receive not only food but nutrition for their souls.

Other friends from abroad, hearing of the effort, added their contribution, formed a supporting friends group, and the growth has continued. Now there is a four-story dormitory, large dining room, kitchen building, library, and vocational training center. A medical clinic is currently being established. Student volunteers come from the United States as well as Kenyan universities. Rev. B. has dropped his senior leadership role, and younger men and women in the church have taken the responsible positions. What a blessing to the region. I recall that Jesus called it salt and light.

The Very Reverend B., former moderator of the Presbyterian Church of East Africa, is a man with a vision. He is changing the paradigm of how we in North America become involved in God's mission in Africa.

Looking at the history of modern missions, we can see that in past decades it was the missionaries who were the initiators of projects and institutions such as these. In this generation, however, it is typically the local Christians who have the vision, plant the seed, and direct the growth.  It is we from the Western church who have the privilege of partnership with these indigenous enterprises. Our role is one of encouragement and admiration, not direction and domination. The ministries are often AIDS-orphan help-projects, crippled children’s facilities, schools for the deaf and blind, sewing and weaving projects for the widows, and many others that are often innovative.

Though primarily working in mission hospitals, Mia and I are very often watching in wonder, cheering, and praying on the sidelines. It’s not easy, with plenty of snares and hurdles. As the hymn reminds us, “God is working His purpose out, as the waters cover the sea.” Brothers and sisters, isn’t it exciting to be members of the Kingdom!

Yours,

Stan and Mia Topple

The 2007 Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study, p. 332