Yes, you are making a difference!

Here is a quick update from Haiti, a country that keeps getting hit hard, over and over. 

Our hearts are heavy as we think of the people in Haiti who are still facing the difficult aftermath of a devastating flood. We want to share with you some moving photos from a village called Hesse, nestled in the mountains. Thanks to the kindness of many generous individuals, hundreds of sponsored children and their families have received food packages to help them through this tough time.

The support from people like you has been incredible and heartwarming. We're thankful to everyone who has pitched in to help in this crucial relief effort. The smiles on the faces of those who received the food packages tell a powerful story about how much this aid means to them. Their resilience in the face of such hardship is truly inspiring.

To make sure the food reached the people who needed it most, we decided to buy it locally. This choice was made to avoid any potential conflicts with armed groups on the road from the capital, Port-au-Prince, even though it came at a higher cost. Our project leaders were determined to do whatever it took to ensure that the food reached those who needed it most, and we applaud their dedication and resourcefulness.

Once again, we want to express our sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed to this vital cause. Your support has had a profound impact on the lives of so many, and we feel privileged to be part of this important mission.

Right now farm hand tools are needed, can you spare 15 bucks to help a family plant seeds and produce food?

CLICK YES I CAN

Broken hearts with a great destiny - what a great thing to touch and help the hearts. 

Please make it possible for one more person to attend, click to give. 

Beginning Mid July 2023 some 200 people will descend on a camp located in Constanta, near the Black Sea. This group of people will not be the usual campers, rather they will be families with a very special gift – a child with disabilities.

During the week these families can escape the burden of being alone, caring for their special child. The moms and dads will be encouraged, learn new skills, and have time to rekindle their love for each other.

The children will have activities and opportunities to do things they might have never done. They will play outside, see the ocean, and make new friends who are special, just like them. All of this happens under the supervision of caring specialists.Of course, there will be sessions where everyone’s faith is strengthened and each will be encouraged to follow Christ.

Speakers will come from many countries to share with these dear people. This cannot happen without your help. The people who need to come to this camp simply don’t have the resources to make it happen. All they have is tied up in caring for their child. But you can give them a hand.

A gift of $200 will make it possible for one person to attend. Can you help?

Learn more about our work in Romania

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In Romania and Moldova Star of Hope is improving the lives of children with special needs. We are also working to keep children off the streets. We do this, for example, by providing support for various daytime activities for socially excluded children as well as children with special needs. We also run fitness activities, integrate work, and work with the development of parent associations. Our Christian conferences encourage mothers and fathers of special needs children in their faith while providing knowledge and skills on caring for their children. Through visiting occupational therapists, physical therapists, specialist teachers, and others, we provide a transfer of knowledge to the Romanian health professionals and authorities which in many areas changed their way of working. Star of Hope continues to actively work to affect public opinion and attitudes about children with special needs.

Star of Hope is also working actively to change the attitudes of health professionals and political leaders. The sight of these children with special needs has long been characterized by the notion that people with special needs cannot contribute to society and that therefore they are inferior. Instead, they have been placed in institutions, where they had to endure both physical and psychological abuse. They never get out of bed, and do not learn to walk, talk, feed themselves, dress, or do without a diaper. There was simply no time to give every child adequate care. The children were under-stimulated and forced into a life without the possibility to develop as human beings and live full lives.

God is Good!

Star of Hope Kenyas Church is named the Word of Life Faith Church  

Report from the good work - Rising to the Occasion

In the recent past, Kenya has witnessed controversial televangelists practicing extreme cult activities that have led to the deaths of over 200 followers (including children and parents) with over 500 followers still reported missing by their family members. A Cult leader posing as a Pastor at a church here in the Coastal Region of Kenya convinced his followers to sell every property they own and move to Shakahola Forest where the Pastor’s farm is located so that they can “meet” Jesus Christ. The brain-washed followers were asked to fast and pray for 40 days before meeting Jesus Christ. Many followers died and got buried in the process leading this act to be termed a terrorist massacre by the Kenyan government.

Figure 1: Shakahola Forest Crime Scene (Photo Credits: NBC News) This is not an isolated incident in Kenya. Christian Religion is being used as an avenue to manipulate and extort the most vulnerable and destitute people in our communities. It is important for the Church to rise to the occasion and spread the true gospel of Jesus Christ to both Parents and children so that they do not get misled. Word of Life Faith Church in Mikindani has been at the forefront to spread the gospel and teachings of Jesus Christ to different groups of individuals in our community. We have organized events and seminars to spread God’s love to the most destitute and vulnerable members of our community.

Prison Ministry: Board Meeting on Improving Quality of the Correctional Services at Shimo La Tewa Borstal Institute The board members of Shimo La Tewa Borstal Institute recently held a meeting with the Permanent Secretary for Correctional Facilities to discuss the improvement of extracurricular activities, focusing on the music band, performing arts, and football, with the aim of enhancing the quality of time spent by the children in conflict with the law within the facility.

During the meeting, we engaged in a comprehensive discussion on the significance of extracurricular activities in the rehabilitation and development of children. Recognizing the positive impact of music, performing arts, and sports, the board members put forth various suggestions to improve these areas within the facility. It was proposed to recruit qualified instructors and mentors specialized in music, performing arts, and football to provide structured training programs and mentorship to the children. Additionally, the board discussed the procurement of necessary equipment and resources to support the activities, ensuring that the children have access to suitable instruments, materials, and sports facilities.

The meeting highlighted the potential benefits of engaging the children in these extracurricular activities, such as promoting self-expression, teamwork, discipline, and talent development. The board members also emphasized the importance of providing a supportive and nurturing environment for the children to explore their interests and skills. Through these activities, it is envisioned that the children will not only enhance their physical and artistic abilities but also develop essential life skills that can contribute to their successful reintegration into society.

In conclusion, the meeting with the Permanent Secretary for Correctional Facilities yielded constructive discussions on improving the extracurricular activities, including the music band, performing arts, and football, at Shimo La Tewa Borstal Institute. The board members are committed to implementing the discussed recommendations, ensuring that the children in conflict with the law receive opportunities for holistic development during their time at the facility. Rev. Gilbert Ochieng represented Word of Life Faith Church Mikindani and Tent Mission in the discussion.

Prison Ministry: Completion of the New Sewerage System The Shimo la Tewa Borstal Center is a correctional facility for underage boys in conflict with the law. The institution has for a long time faced a health hazard, a broken sewerage system.

The facility’s sewerage system made the whole compound stink besides exposing the boys to infectious diseases such as cholera and typhoid.

In 2021, through support from Tent Mission and Word of Life Faith Church, we began building a new, more efficient system.

The project was delayed due to insufficient funds. This year, Word of Life Faith Church together with Star of Hope Kenya contributed Kshs. 240,000 to complete the project. A team of workers from Mikindani was recently assigned to complete the project. We are happy to announce that the project is complete and the facility now has a well-functioning sewerage system. We thank every well-wisher that made this possible.

God bless you. Children’s Seminar at Word of Life Faith Church Word of Life Faith Church in Mikindani organized the Children’s Seminar from the 26^th to the 30^th of April with the theme being “Fanning the Flames of Holiness and Purity “. The event was attended by 261 children aged 4 to 19 years old from the informal settlements in Mikindani.

The five-day seminar was facilitated by four professionals ranging from teachers to counselors. The children were divided into groups based on age. They were taught about different topics ranging from Family, Helping in the church to the Beauty of Adolescence. The children enjoyed their time. They engaged in debates, played fun games, and ate lunch together as a family. Rescue and Hope: Angel Tabitha - Orphan

Girl Liberated from Violent Relative On the first day of the Children’s seminar, Angel Tabitha, an Orphan girl came to the event venue sad and looking frail. She stood outside the church gate in confusion and that’s when one of our teachers invited her to join us. She began to cry uncontrollably. When she settled, Angel opened up and told the teacher that she was an orphan and she comes from a nearby slum area where she lives with her aunt. Angel had run away from her aunt and had been missing for two days. She was fed up with her aunt physically and emotionally assaulting her every day. She thought she might find refuge at the Children Seminar which she overheard other children talk about when she was roaming the streets of Mikindani.

We welcomed Angel Tabitha with open arms and took her straight to the Children's Services Government Office where we reported her case. Angel Tabitha was provided with food and counseling services by the officials. She is now in good care as she was placed under Children Services Rescue home where she is finding safety and hope. Against all odds, the innocent orphan girl child was bravely rescued from the clutches of her violent relative, finding solace and safety in the arms of compassionate guardians. Glory be to God.

Youth Seminar Word of Life Faith Church in Mikindani organized a youth Seminar on 18^th March 2023.

We set up an open platform for the youths to ask questions about matters affecting their lives.  The event was attended by 46 youths from Mikindani.

The discussion was facilitated by Pastor Gilbert Ochieng together with the help of other pastors and teachers in the Church. The youths got their answers on topics ranging from dealing with depression and tough times, addiction, and relationships to financial growth. This productive event positively impacted the lives of the attendants.  

Leadership Training A leadership training was held at Word of Life Faith Church and facilitated by Pastor Gilbert Ochieng. The four-day training was themed Ministerial Training.

Word of Life Faith church organized a Leadership Training event, which proved to be an enriching and transformative experience for all 300 participants. Ministerial Training is all about being an active leader in the Ministry work of the Church. The training aimed to equip members of the church and community with the necessary skills and knowledge to become effective leaders within the church community and beyond.  

The four-day event featured a diverse range of workshops and sessions, covering various aspects of leadership such as communication, decision-making, conflict resolution, and servant leadership. Pastor Gilbert Ochieng facilitated these sessions, sharing insights and practical wisdom. The interactive nature of the training allowed attendees to actively engage in discussions, ask questions, and participate in group activities, fostering a collaborative learning environment.

Overall, the Leadership Training event in the church empowered participants with invaluable tools to make a positive impact in their roles as leaders. The knowledge gained from the training will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and effectiveness of the church community, enabling individuals to lead with confidence, compassion, and a deep sense of purpose.

Single Ladies Conference The Single Ladies Seminar was held at Word of Life Faith Church Mikindani, under the guidance of Pastor Grace Ngenya and Pastor Ole Sena. The purpose of the seminar was to provide guidance, encouragement, and practical insights to single women within the church community and beyond.

During the seminar, Pastor Grace and Ole Sena addressed a variety of topics relevant to single ladies, including personal growth, spiritual development, relationships, and purposeful living. He emphasized the importance of embracing one's season of singleness and encouraged attendees to focus on self-discovery, pursuing their passions, and developing a strong foundation in their faith.

The seminar also featured interactive sessions and group discussions, allowing participants to share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. Attendees were provided with practical tools and advice on building healthy relationships, setting personal boundaries, and navigating the complexities of modern dating. The seminar aimed to empower single women with the knowledge and tools to thrive in their singleness, while fostering a supportive community within the church.

In conclusion, the Single Ladies Seminar led by Pastor Grace and Ole Sena at Word of Life Faith Church Mikindani provided a valuable platform for single women to gather, learn, and grow. The seminar addressed relevant topics, equipped participants with practical insights, and fostered a sense of community and support. It is expected that the seminar will have a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the attendees as they continue their journey as single women, guided by the principles and teachings shared during the event.  

Women’s Conference - The Purpose of a Woman. The Word of Life Faith Church-Mikindani recently hosted a transformative three-day Christian women's conference, led by the inspiring Pastor Gilbert. The conference, centered on the theme of "Purpose of a Woman," attracted a diverse group of women from all walks of life seeking spiritual growth and empowerment.

The event provided a nurturing and uplifting environment for attendees to connect with one another, deepen their faith, and discover their unique purpose in God's plan.

Throughout the conference, Pastor Gilbert skillfully delivered powerful sermons and teachings that resonated with the hearts of the women in attendance. He emphasized the biblical perspective of a woman's purpose and encouraged participants to embrace their God-given gifts and talents. The sessions were thought-provoking, fostering self-reflection and inspiring discussions among the attendees. Additionally, the conference offered various workshops, interactive sessions, and group activities that allowed women to share their experiences, exchange wisdom, and build lasting connections within the Christian community.

The Christian women's conference at Word of Life Faith Church-Mikindani served as a catalyst for personal growth and spiritual rejuvenation. It was a testament to the church's commitment to empowering women and equipping them to make a positive impact in their families, communities, and the world at large.

The event left a lasting impression on the attendees, igniting a sense of purpose and renewed determination to live out their faith authentically. Overall, the conference was a resounding success, leaving women empowered, encouraged, and ready to embrace their unique role in fulfilling God's purpose for their lives.

With the deepest gratitude, Rev. Gilbert Ochieng, Senior Pastor, Word of Life Faith Church Mikindani & Director Star of Hope Kenya

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We are delighted to share the wonderful news of receiving additional funds for emergency relief efforts in Haiti. These funds will be directed towards providing essential food supplies, establishing farming tool banks, and constructing much-needed classrooms. The timing of this aid is perfect as it will greatly benefit the communities, especially in Hesse, Dano, and Bois Negresse, who are still recovering from the devastating flood disaster. In this article, we will discuss the impact of these additional funds and how they will contribute to the recovery and long-term development of the affected regions.

Emergency Food Kits for Families in Need:

With the combination of previous funding and the newly received additional funds, we can now provide food kits for 400 families in Hesse, 400 families in Dano, and 400 families in Bois Negresse. To ensure that the assistance reaches as many families as possible, the size and value of the food kits have been adjusted. Each kit will now consist of three main food items: 25 pounds of rice, 5 pounds of brown sugar, and a half-gallon of cooking oil. While this may be a reduction from the usual five-item kits, it will still make a significant difference in the lives of 1,200 families. The entire population of these villages will be filled with renewed hope as they receive the much-needed support in the aftermath of the flood.

Challenges and Solutions:

The leaders in Bois Negresse have received the funds in their account, enabling them to begin purchasing food locally as transportation from the capital remains difficult. They have sufficient time to procure all the required food before the end of July, given the scarcity of food, security concerns, and damaged roads. The road conditions make it impossible to drive to Bois Negresse directly, so alternative means of transportation, such as motorcycle taxis, will be utilized to ensure the food distribution is carried out at the end of July.

In addition to food aid, funds have been allocated to initiate the construction of classrooms in Hess. This investment aims to have the classrooms ready before the scheduled school reopening in early September. The projects for the agricultural tool banks in Hesse and Bois Negresse will commence in August, following the distribution of food kits. A meeting with the project leaders from Rigaud, Jeanton, and Boyer could not be held due to security reasons, but a special virtual meeting is planned for tomorrow to discuss and finalize the second half of the school support budget for 2023.

The Challenges of Road Infrastructure:

The poor condition of the roads is evident, as witnessed by the Hesse and Dano project teams who had to endure a challenging five-hour drive to cover only 35 miles between the projects and the Star of Hope office in Lavallee. However, the situation is even more dire in Bois Negresse, where it took a staggering 14-hour journey on a motorbike to attend the meeting. These difficulties highlight the pressing need for infrastructure improvements in the region to ensure better accessibility and transportation for both immediate relief efforts and long-term development projects.

Conclusion:

The additional funds received for flood relief in Haiti bring renewed hope to the affected communities. Through the provision of emergency food kits, construction of classrooms, and the implementation of agricultural tool banks, we are taking significant steps toward supporting the victims' recovery and fostering long-term development. Despite the challenges posed by road conditions and security concerns, the dedication of the project teams and the continued support of generous donors like you make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by the flood. Thank you for your invaluable contribution, and may you be blessed for your kindness.

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Antonio Boursiquot - Project Director - Star of Hope Haiti Foundation