Today is not my “blogging day”….but here I am, blogging. Wanted to share some stories of the day that are weighing pretty heavily on my heart. Working in Mafubira, heartbreaking stories become all too common as I spend much of the day reading, laughing, playing, and singing with children of which most have experienced unfathomable losses of parents, siblings, and friends. Today I was reminded that there is so much here that can never be planned for or expected. Though, it is these raw, heart-wrenching, unexpected situations that perhaps need the most prayer.

Two young boys came to live at STAO last week because they had been identified as a child-headed household (kids who live on their own when the parents or other family die and there is no one to care for them). Today, we found out that the boys had been hiding serious parasite infections in their feet and legs, not wanting to be teased by the other STAO kids. Medically, it’s probably the worst thing I’ve ever seen firsthand. Thousands of small parasitic worms embedded in their toes, feet, legs, and even arms. I won’t go into too much detail about how they are removed, but it is truly horrible and unimaginably painful. Being that I am not good with anything medical, I am extremely grateful for our healthcare team that is spending another long day at the clinic with the boys. Please pray for them, as well as the boys, as they are currently still at the clinic dealing with the removal of the parasites.

Later in the day, young woman walked onto the STAO property with a young baby on her back. Hearing her story, we learned that she is 22 years old, with 3 children—ages 5, 3, and 1. Her husband died of AIDS only 3 weeks ago, and she has now been left to care for her 3 children as well as find work to support their family. She could not afford the 8,000ush (about 5$ US) monthly rent, and today was forced out of their home by the owner. Having nowhere to go, she came to STAO. After talking and praying with her, the team chose to support her for a couple months until she can start earning income. Hopefully, with STAO planning to put in a small community center in the new building with sewing machines to be shared by widows in the village, she will be able to learn sewing skills and make an income.

Please pray for the boys, the young woman, and the team as we are pretty tired after a long, busy week. We will rest tomorrow, as we take Saturdays off—and then get geared up for another vibrant Sunday at church and dive into another whirlwind week of work.

with peace,

kate

PS–For parents: we have a team cell phone—though it’s much cheaper to have us call you than the other way around….some of the team will probably call home this weekend, if you need to call us, the best time is between 7-11pm our time (10 hours ahead of Seattle).

The number: 0256-773-422-614.

Kate

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