Knollwood Baptist Church

missions offering collected in December. In addition to learning about and benefiting from African culture, the goals of this trip include medical support, agricultural development, and early childhood education and development. Those serving are Chris Chapman, Ted Dougherty, Jr., Brian Whaley, Joyce Moser, Tom Ginn, Jim Caputo (church friend), Jane Dicus, Annette Westmoreland, Jim Broyles, Rick Jordan (NCCBF staff member), and Fred and Dean Clifford.


		Partnership Work in Kenya
		Ten Knollwoodians and two guests are in Nairobi, Kenya from November 1-12 of this year to partner with Sam and Melody Harrell, Cooperative Baptist Fellowship Missionaries and directors of the African Exchange ministry we support as a part of our annual international
		missions offering collected in December. In addition to learning about and benefiting from African culture, the goals of this trip include medical support, agricultural development, and early childhood education and development. Those serving are Chris Chapman, Ted Dougherty, Jr., Brian Whaley, Joyce Moser, Tom Ginn, Jim Caputo (church friend), Jane Dicus, Annette Westmoreland, Jim Broyles, Rick Jordan (NCCBF staff member), and Fred and Dean Clifford.
		*First e-mail from Kenya -Chris Chapman:* We've have a great experience thus far. The trip went as smoothly as possible with all flights being on time, though we were weary upon arrival, and one piece of Dean's luggage was a day later getting here. But the Methodist Guest House where we are staying is very comfortable and the food is good, and Sam's wisdom in working with groups has allowed us time to rest first upon arrival and then at key times after harder work. The first day we went to the Amani Ya Juu home for refugee women. They shared their incredible stories with us and their art as well that serves as a source of income. We also went to the new life home and held the babies they have rescued from garbage cans, toilets, etc. (some HIV positive), played with some toddlers, and generally fell in love with the children. Both of these ministries with whom the Harells partner exude incredible hope in desolate circumstances.
					The second day (yesterday) we went to the Kids and to Kids program and did wellness checks, taught Bible stories, played games, and did crafts for a full day of their school. Everyone needs to see Dean Clifford leading the Hokie Pokie! There were 32 kids ranging from 5 to 14. They are all from situations of abject poverty but this ministry is helping them prepare for public school while helping them to know they are loves by God and God's people. Again, it was an inredible experience. The children are so hopeful, so full of life and bright and respectful and appreciative of anyone whocomes to work with them. American classroom teachers would be jealous!
		Anyway, we have received more than we have given and have learned much more than we have taught. The tremendous respect for Sam and Melody Harrell I had already has simply grown immensely here (their boys ate with us last night). Blessings to all, thanks for your prayers and support. We'll send another note ASAP. Chris

		For Missions in 2003 - Click here