McMahon March 2025

“And I, indeed I, have appointed with him Aholiab… and I have put wisdom in the hearts of all the gifted artisans, that they may make all that I have commanded you” (Exodus 31:6 NKJV).

I am curious what you would say if I asked you to describe “art class” from your school days. What would you mention? Paint splattered tables? Fun weekly crafts? An enthusiastic teacher? Practicing skills and techniques? Most likely it was a time to relax, not worry about being “right,” and just create something.

Sadly, most sub-Saharan African schools lack art classes. Without resources, qualified teachers, or belief in its inherent importance, many students never learn any art at all. Not so at Rafiki! All our students in Rwanda, from preschool to twelveth grade, have designated weekly art time during which they learn art history, practice specific techniques, and recognize artistic elements in the world around them. What’s more, they get to learn it from the perspective that God Himself is the Master Creator. When we create, we demonstrate one aspect of how we are made in His image and likeness.

An eleventh grade student using the drawing technique “draw what you see.”

God told Moses to employ specifically ordained artisans to build His tent of worship. What strong evidence that skilled workmanship and beautiful artistry are important to God and ARE useful in the way they lead us into his worship and praise. We do not just teach to the test. We give our students opportunities to imitate God’s creativity.

When I recently met with our own art teacher, Teacher Arsene, his face brightened as he described his amazement that so much of art is a skill that can be taught. He is a first-year teacher, but he also had the privilege of attending Rafiki as a day student from third through twelveth grade. “I get to teach [my students] how to see better!” Truly, what a gift he is giving his students!

Kindergartners coming to visit the headmaster’s office as they were learning about “community helpers.”

In other news, my headmaster position continues to be highly satisfying with completely full days and constant unique challenges. And yet, there are also sweet moments throughout my days. Whether it is preschoolers running up to give me a hug during recess, a primary student coming to me for a lollipop and pencil for their birthday, my theology students synthesizing deep ideas, or a teacher employing a new instruction technique effectively, I love what I get to be a part of here.

With a primary student who has just received a birthday lollipop!

A recent Senior Secondary boys’ basketball game won by a landslide!

Thank you so much for your prayers for me, whether specific or general. It would not be possible for me to do what I am doing without it. You also take care of me through your giving and reaching out through phone calls, texts, and emails. It was also really nice to see many of you at Christmastime. Additionally, I was amazed by the response when I sent out that short prayer request for Adam’s surgery last month. I am so happy to have the team of supporters that I do. I truly feel so loved.

Praise the Lord with me for:

• Adam’s (a resident student) successful appendectomy and continued recovery.
• The imminent finish to term three and all its successes and accomplishments.
• Teachers who are so responsive to instruction and willing to work in unity.

Prayer Requests

• End of term busyness and good planning for the beginning of Term 4.
• Travels to the U.S. and back for Enrichment at the Home Office with my teammate Rachel and her three young children.
• Continued personal patience through minor daily but wearing annoyances.
• More missionaries throughout Rafiki to share the load AND the fruit of running overseas classical schools and children’s homes.

Soli Deo Gloria! (To God be the glory!).

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