McDaniel April 2025

“Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established” (Proverbs 16:3).

Time is flying here in Malawi! We have settled in to our roles here at the Village and are so thankful for the national staff who have been here over a decade, who have shared so much wisdom about life and the culture here. We are slowly learning Chitumbuka and have many willing tutors to help us along the way! We also prayed for Elijah’s health, as he was struggling with many symptoms. God has been so good, Elijah is able to eat a larger variety of foods, play for hours outside, and is not suffering with the headaches as he was. We are relieved to see his symptoms alleviate a little.

Elijah, Alaethia, and Jonathan with Rafiki children, and a Rafiki Mother

One of our big prayers as we ventured to Malawi was that friendships would be quick and genuine. Oh, how God has answered our prayers! Elijah, Alaethia, and Jonathan have made sweet friendships with the Rafiki resident children, and our church family has graciously welcomed us as well. We have had the opportunity to attend couples fellowship, women’s breakfast, help in preparation of the new church building, and weekly Bible study beyond Sunday worship.

Sign installation at church

The Home Office visit also provided an opportunity to further establish our relationships with the local chiefs, who said they feel like Rafiki and the Traditional Authority (TA, i.e. the chiefs and their headmen/headwomen) are operating as one community. We are thankful that God has allowed us as a Village to give attention to building these relationships, and we pray that they will continue to flourish and provide further opportunities for ministry and commitment to our school as the best option available for our community’s children.

Alexis, Lisa, and ChildCare staff

There is so much to be thankful for everywhere that we look, especially as we look to those of you who are steadfast in your prayer and giving support for us. We love you and hope that these updates encourage you.

Please enjoy some additional pictures of our life here in Africa!

Beautiful sunset view from the Village

Bryan and the children with our growing garden

Enjoying the beautiful weather in Malawi!

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