“And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones who is my disciple, truly I tell you, that person will certainly not lose their reward.”

Matthew‬ ‭10:42

Dear Family, On behalf of the churches in Africa, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the love and financial support of our American brothers and sisters.  Your heart to support our efforts in the 3rd-world mission field is known to God, and the scripture above reminds us that you will receive a great reward!

This week was an emotional one for Patrique and I, as we received news that our dear sister Ariel Atohengbe, an American missionary for both the Lagos and Johannesburg mission teams, was in need of a serious medical procedure that would cost about $5000.  After speaking with Kip, he was eager to help and asked John Causey (PACK) and LuJack Martinez (AFRICANUS) to contribute. Both of these brothers immediately sent funds from the Seattle and DC churches to help pay for Ariel’s expenses!   

Patrique and I along with Ariel & Osas Atohengbe at the Johannesburg Inaugural Service in September!

When I shared about the generosity of our movement during our DTime with the Atohengbes, Ariel began to weep uncontrollably..she was aware that the Joburg Church was working to get medical insurance here in South Africa soon, and had no idea how to pay for the surgery needed.  She and Osas are so grateful!  They are some of the hardest workers on our team, and left successful careers in administration and finance to enter the full-time ministry!  God willing, they will lead the mission team for our pillar church planting of Nairobi, Kenya in 2023!

I also want to personally thank the McKeans and Bordieris for their efforts to support the MERCYww Signature Project with The Real School!  This primary school is located in Okobaba, Nigeria – the largest overpopulated and inpoverished housing project on water in the world!

An aerial view of Okobaba…
Life in Okobaba…Biodun, the principal of The Real School is in the foreground.
On the grounds of The Real School with Biodun, Tony and Bolaji!

Biodun & Yewande Abiodurin, the principal and headmistress of the school, sacrificed their own funds to build and start this primary school back in 2018! After meeting with them, we were moved by their vision and decided to partner with them to provide partial scholarships and food resources for their students. Biodun and Yewande were so encouraged by the Lagos disciples that they began studying the Bible and were baptized! In appreciation, they named their baby Mercy!!

Kip and Elena with Yewande and baby Mercy at our 2019 AMC!

Through the continued support of MERCYworldwide, primary school students and families who cannot afford $1/day for school will be able to be educated! To God be the glory!

Biodun with some of the primary school students at The Real School!

As you prepare for a glorious Missions Contribution in June 28th, know that your efforts will be rewarded by our LORD in heaven!  Pray also for our spiritual efforts as three more souls should be baptized here in Joburg this Sunday! To God be the glory!

With all our love,
Andrew & Patrique