Miners Habari #27

Hello, my dears!
This letter is a bit longer because we have so much to tell you. Clinics that David helped plan will soon be opening in Isiolo (northern Kenya) and Kapoeta (southern Sudan). The Soul Care Retreats have also had a profound impact. We're so glad you're part of our journey!

Banda Health
Some time ago we had the opportunity to celebrate something really wonderful that I'd like to share with you: Banda Health has been supporting a partner service in the region for quite some time now. Northern Kenya, in Isoolo. The existing clinic is currently being transformed into a small regional hospital. I was able to help with the planning and was invited to the groundbreaking ceremony.

Together with representatives from the government, churches, and the local community, we celebrated this launch. The foundation has already been laid. What was particularly special was the visit of a bishop who rarely visits the region – and as a result, many congregations from the surrounding area came together for a large service. It almost became a real competition of choirs: different groups, each singing in their own language, with dances, colors, and traditional clothing. I thoroughly enjoyed it.

It was simply wonderful to see how diverse and vibrant God's kingdom is – how people worship him in such different, colorful ways.

In the South Sudan There is encouraging progress: Our friend Lobai has completed his training in Kijabe and is now returning to further expand the work on the ground. The land for the health center – which will soon offer hope to a region with over a million people lacking surgical services – has been secured, and the agreements with the various churches have been signed – this was a challenging „peacemaking“ effort, as many were initially reluctant to cooperate. 

A smaller facility in the city has already been built and licensed, but it still lacks furnishings, equipment, and medications. Until now, many treatments have been provided through outreach programs via local churches – the new facility will enable significantly more comprehensive care. At the same time, we face practical challenges, such as getting medications into the country. Please pray especially for the upcoming training sessions and for a successful start for the clinic in the coming weeks. Those who would like to support the project specifically or accompany it in prayer (e.g., via a [website/contact form]) are welcome to do so. WhatsApp group), is welcome to contact me.

In Niger We are following a dedicated doctor who has already established a very successful practice and now wants to expand with the support of Banda Health. More and more people – including refugees from the conflict zones of the Sahel – are coming to his clinic and receiving compassionate care without humiliation. In an environment where many international organizations have withdrawn due to security concerns, it is precisely these local leaders who take responsibility and provide sustainable aid; these are the people we should support with all our fervor. Please pray for protection, wisdom, and the necessary resources for this next step.

A major focus remains the new hospital in MozambiqueWe are grateful for important progress in the regulatory area, even though there is still much to be done. At the same time, we have adjusted our approach: Instead of building a large hospital directly, we are starting with a smaller outpatient clinic in Nampula. This will allow us to practically test whether government bodies and various agencies will keep their word regarding framework conditions such as the import of medications, visas for skilled personnel, and training opportunities. This step helps us to build a healthier and more sustainable project in the long term. Anyone who would like to get involved can do so here: We are building so-called „Launch Teams“On – small groups that support the project in prayer and spread the word within their own communities. About our Website or Facebook group You can find more information here, and by doing so you will help more people learn about this unique project.

Soul Care Retreats
Do you know that feeling of being exhausted, yet totally encouraged? That's how I feel every year after the Soul Care Retreats, which this year again had around 60 participants.

On the first day of the retreat, we perceived a kind of atmosphere of neglect and depression. In some participants, we even sensed – quite literally – a weariness of life. All the more wonderful, then, to hear how some of the participants consciously for They made a life choice and were able to experience God as a reality. (A lady who was still working in Nairobi's red-light district a few weeks ago has decided to follow Him!) – The power of resurrection!
It is always very difficult to put into words what God has done, but I would like to share a few of the testimonies with you.

„The garden of my heart was full of bitterness, shame, and anger—even self-hatred. I tried to take my own life. And as a pastor in a small community, the consequences were especially difficult and isolating. But God healed me. I brought my shame to the cross. I have never experienced the presence of God as I have in these past few days.“
(Kenyan pastor)

One participant was practically begged to attend; she accepted three times and then canceled three times. Here's what she said:

I didn't want to come, but so many people said I needed it. God told me I should rest, but I felt I didn't deserve it, that I wasn't enough. God asked me, "Why don't you want my rest?" I've been a Christian since 1992, but there was always a blockage, and I realized it was my self-worth. I've always hated myself deeply, and the root cause is that I can't handle mistakes and coming in second. What I'm taking away from this is that I've never actually said to myself, "I love you."„
(Asian missionary)

The second seminar focused on the theme of "Roots in God." It's fascinating to learn that a vintner prunes 80-901 TP3T of the vines annually! We reflected on where we need to trim our own behaviors and activities so that the fruits of our lives will have a richer flavor. Because the hunger for more is so great, we've now started an online "Roots Group" where we practice "metabolizing" God's Word through various creative Bible meditations!

Other things that are going on: 
Noemi She had a really great time with her classmates on the school trip – a highlight was abseiling down the waterfall. She also enjoys singing in the school's praise and worship team.
At David It was a challenging time health-wise – he was bedridden for several weeks, and it wasn't easy to figure out exactly what was wrong. We've since received a diagnosis of a parasitic infection (schistosomiasis), which is now being treated. We're very grateful that he's feeling much better and is back on his feet.
Another real highlight was that Layla She is very happy that she has made it onto the best volleyball team (Varsity) at her school.
There was also something very special about a Miner Siblings Weekend! Four out of five Miner siblings were here in Kijabe with their families, and we were able to spend time together as one big family.
We celebrated a cedar festival with friends at Easter! 

There was also something very special about a Miner Siblings Weekend! Four out of five Miner siblings were here in Kijabe with their families, and we were able to spend time together as one big family.
We celebrated a cedar festival with friends at Easter! 

We are deeply grateful to know that so many of you stand behind us!
In July and August we will be back in Austria, where Noemi will be doing her first summer job and we will see some of you again.

Greetings from Kenya,
David & Lisa with Noemi and Layla