KISII REPORT - DORMITORY DEDICATION

After many months of prayer and labor, we were at last able to open the dormitory for the orphans. This is a big deal, and the staff at the orphanage put together a big dedication program.

They also lined up a video phone and asked me if I
could have some words for the program.

This took place on 11:00 AM Kenya time on Sunday morning , which was 3:00 AM Wisconsin time. So, at 3:00 early Sunday morning, Vivian and I sat in front of my cell phone and shared in part of the ceremonies.
(More photos below) 


Here is what I said to the people present: "Mum and I, the Log Church in America, and everyone who has given their help are so happy that this dormitory is now complete. We are thankful that the children can move into their new home.

"To all of our children of the orphanage, I would like to tell you that this building was built with love.

"You are loved by us and you are loved by God. During this entire construction process, we have been calling it a dormitory, which means it is a place to sleep. But it is much more than that. I want you to think of it is more than the place where you sleep, but I want you to know that this is your home. God has provided this home of you, and He has given you a family in the people of the church.

"The Bible says a lot about the building of houses. Usually when it speaks of the building of a house, it is speaking of the family heritage or even a nation, but it can also apply to this building, which is your house.

"This new home of yours is the result of many people obeying God when He told them that they ought to contribute to its building, and the result of many hours, days, weeks and months of many laborers. But it is really God who has built this building.

"This is important, because we read in the Psalms, “Unless the LORD builds the house, its builders labor in vain.” (Psalm 127:1)

"And in the book of Hebrews of the Bible, we read that “every house is built by someone, but God is the builder of everything” (Hebrews 3:4)

So children, please think of this when you are living in this house. You should conduct yourselves knowing that God has provided this place for you. You should remember the words of the Proverbs that says “By wisdom a house is built and by understanding it is established. Through knowledge its rooms are filled with every precious and beautiful treasure.” (Proverbs 24:3-4)

"You should say as did Joshua, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15)

"God has always intended for you to have a home. This is your home for now, but He has an even greater home in mind for you in the future. That is why Jesus told His followers,

'Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe in Me as well. In My Father’s house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and welcome you into My presence, so that you also may be where I am.' (John 14:1-3)

"As for words of dedication, I will repeat the words of King David when he was asking God to bless his own house. Here is what he said:

'And now, O Lord GOD, You are God! Your words are true, and You have promised this goodness to Your servant. Now therefore, may it please You to bless the house, that it may continue forever before You. For You, O Lord GOD, have spoken, and with Your blessing the house of Your servant will be blessed forever.' (1 Samuel 7:28-29)

Amen, and may God bless you my children. Mum and I send you our love."
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Now, here is Vivian’s greeting:

"Praise the LORD!    Hello Log Church of Kenya!   This is Mum.

Dad and I are praising our Great God with you in the completion of the dormitory for the children.  

We feel so blessed and privileged to be included in what God is doing there among you.

I want you to know dear children that every brick and  every part of this building was provided by God Himself  for you   and given to you in great love.    So  children ,  you can know that you are surrounded by love,    rest in love,  live in love,  and  know that you are so loved by God and by us and all who gave.

You continue to be in our hearts and prayers.    And  thank you so much for praying for us.

May God bless you and keep His Hand upon each of you. Praise God! I love each one of you."

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That was our small part in the service. We were able to see them on the phone and they were able to see us as well. It was fun!

This part is now complete, but much remains. The daily needs are substantial, and the school term is now again begun.