MARCH 2023

Here in Kenya things have continued to be pretty tense, this time due to a number of recent political protests. The opposition government leader has called for bi-weekly protests to push for what he calls electoral justice and to apply pressure on the government to fix the high cost of living. A number of people have died in these protests including police officers. This week the US expressed concern over the safety of Kenyan journalists following reports of attacks as they covered opposition demonstrations. We are relatively safe where we live and our only real concern is travelling into Nairobi to pick up friends from the airport. We recently had a friend visit us from our home church in London and it was lovely to be able to share the vision of the ministry and our lives here with her. Next week we have one of the leaders of our church coming out with his family with more visitors lined up after that. When writing to the church in Thessalonica Paul said "...we were delighted to share with you not only the gospel of God but our lives as well." (1 Thess 2:8) and that is what we want to do, we want to share our lives. We can't do this work on our own so it is a real joy to be able to share our lives and partner with you as we join in with what God is doing. We are so grateful for all of you that partner with us prayerfully, financially and relationally, asante sana!

At Cornerstone Preparatory Academy it is full steam ahead as progress continues to be made. It is so wonderful to see how far we have come. After laying the groundwork and foundation over the last 2 years it is brilliant to start to finally see something growing! The school leadership team is doing well and Sean continues to work with them supporting their growth and development. Recently a Principal has also been appointed and Sean is slowly and gradually handing over more and more responsibilities so that the school leadership is fully Kenyan. How exciting! The pupils at the school recently sat mid-term exams. Having spent time pouring over the results with the leadership team, it is fantastic to see orphans and children from some of the poorest backgrounds, those suffering from generational poverty perform so well. It’s not fair and it’s not right that a number of barriers prevent some children from having the same opportunities as others. A good education opens doors, it equips and empowers and provides access to opportunities. To be a part of that in this community, changing the narrative, breaking the cycle of generational poverty and helping to raise the next generation is really special. Although there is still a long way to go, the recent progress is extremely encouraging.

Jonah and Caleb are off school for the Easter break and making the most of the recent rain that we have had. You might be aware that Kenya is currently in the midst of the worst drought in a generation so the recent rains have brought much relief and joy to everybody. It is funny how excited two English boys can get about rain and it reminds us of the different experiences they have growing up here. Anna is keeping Rachel busy and we are getting ready for her first birthday next month! Celebrating these milestones so far from home and away from family is still something we find difficult so we would love you to pray for us to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus as "run with perseverance the race marked out for us."