And I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” Then I said, “Here I am! Send me.” (Isaiah 6:8ESV)
Where does the time go? It seemed like yesterday I boarded the plane bound for Africa unaware that I would still be here eleven years later. I admit that I didn’t understand what I had said “yes” to, but God did. Over the years I have learned much and grown in my relationships with Christ, my colleagues, and church leaders. I call Africa home; now that the Lord has blessed me with a partner in life and ministry, I continue to gain a better understanding of the diversity and richness of the African cultures and strive to share that knowledge with many. I am blessed beyond measure to be part of God’s mission and share His love and I look forward to many more years of service.
Updates from the field
The past few months have brought numerous changes, the main one being the unification of the Africa region. For several years the region has been operating in two areas but recently has transitioned to one. Rev. Shauen Trump is now serving as regional director for all 20 missionaries and their families serving across Africa. Please keep him in your prayers. I am blessed to be part of the leadership team continuing in my role as communications specialist and additionally as coordinator of mercy and education.
The LCMS International Mission continues to walk alongside church partners across the region, supporting them through grants, especially during this coronavirus pandemic season. These grants support education and COVID-19 prevention, health and hygiene, food distribution, and Gospel by radio programs.
With the reopening of Nairobi County in July, I joined my colleagues Rev. Trump and John Wolf on a trip to western Kenya in early August to welcome our missionary families, the Beckers and Steeles, to their new home and community at Neema Lutheran College (Matongo). We enjoyed a week of fellowship with our colleagues, Principal Omolo and Deputy Principal Miruka of Neema Lutheran College.
One of the joys of being upcountry was attending church in person after five months. It was wonderful to worship with our brothers and sisters in Christ at Lwanda Lutheran Church. Restrictions of social distancing, wearing masks were followed to ensure the safety of all.
Our missionaries in East Africa remain safe and well. Each country has its own set of restrictions that guide us in daily activities. We continue to keep you all in our prayers.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us as we serve the Lord in Eastern and Southern Africa.
or you can send gifts to: The lutheran church--missouri synod P.o. Box 66861 st. louis, MO 63166-6861
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Or you can send gifts to: Mission Central 40718 Highway E-16 Mapleton, IA 51034 or give online at www.missioncentral.us
prayers & praise
- Pray for God's strength and guidance as Michael and I serve in Africa.
- Pray for God’s peace in the midst of the fear and panic due to the coronavirus.
- Pray for Rev. Shauen Trump as he serves as regional director.
- Pray for the church bodies that we serve alongside in Africa.
- Praise God for all of the love & support that you give to me and Michael.
Contact Information: P. O. Box 22, Karen, 00502 - Kenya / Email: shara.osiro@lcms.org
