Stories
Lives touched, one at a time
Over the years, many lives have been touched through the ministries we support. We could tell so many stories — here are three.
Teresa & Melita — Giving Back
Twenty-five years ago, I (Susan) first set foot in Mozambique. From the very beginning, I found myself drawn to the children, and over the years those relationships have become some of the most precious parts of my connection to Mozambique.
Two young girls I spent precious time with were Teresa and Melita. Today, both are married with families of their own, and both now work at the same orphanage where they grew up — serving others, giving back, and continuing the work that was once done for them.
Their lives have not been easy, and poverty continues to create tremendous challenges. But watching them become wives, mothers, and women who give back to others brings me great joy. I am so grateful that, after all these years, we are still connected.
Rivaldo — Finding His Way
Rivaldo is another young man we’ve known since he was quite young. A few years ago, he was struggling through a grueling, discouraging year of teacher training — a dark season when he wasn’t sure what his future would look like.
But Rivaldo kept going. He made his way to Maputo, the capital of Mozambique, where he worked his way into a position at a very good school. Today he is thriving as a teacher, and still keeps in touch with us regularly. We are very proud of him.
Daniel — A Life Transformed
Daniel was 14 when our partner Victor encountered him and brought him under his wing. By then, Daniel had already experienced more hardship than most people could imagine — his mother killed by a land mine while foraging for food, three older siblings lost for lack of care, and years spent delivering alcohol for an uncle instead of going to school.
Then Victor entered his life. Victor and Christina took Daniel in, and recognized in him an unusual sensitivity to others’ needs and a deep desire to grow in his Christian faith. With stability and opportunity, Daniel caught up with his education and went on to Bible school.
Today, Daniel is married with two children and is the pastor of the church located on the grounds of the school Victor and Christina built. Victor and Christina are now overjoyed to have Daniel serving alongside them, leading their church. This is why we do what we do.