What an amazing journey I had recently, traveling to Kenya to visit with two of our mission partners. After arriving in Nairobi, I went to Kijabe to meet with the staff of BethanyKids. A compassionate Christian mission in Africa, BethanyKids serves as a pediatric hospital sharing the love of Jesus in every aspect of ministry—including medically and spiritually. I was able to spend time with patients, families, nurses, doctors, and the hopegiving staff. I also participated in their mobile medical clinic, spoke at a women’s conference, and visited a school for the disabled. The women of First Church sent their handmade prayer shawls and hats with me; I was thrilled to pass them along as an encouragement of God’s love and our prayers for them. Meeting with leaders, professors, and students at Africa International University and Nairobi Graduate School of Theology, with whom we partner through Christian leaders for Africa, concluded my trip. As I prayed with students who are studying to become pastors and missionaries throughout Africa, I was once again reminded of how God is at work in the world today!
by Trusha Barner, Director of Missions
BethanyKids
The focus of BethanyKids is to offer surgical and rehabilitative care to children and families who have no other place to turn. This ministry began in 2004 at AIC Africa Inland Church) Kijabe Hospital in Kenya and has since expanded to four other countries. Among those who volunteer their services, both short- and long-term, are missionary surgeons, local African surgeons, surgeon trainees, nurses, chaplains, social workers, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists. Their surgeon training program is dedicated to equipping African doctors to serve in Africa. It includes spiritual mentorship so the surgeons may provide hope and holistic care from a generous heart.
The BethanyKids Mobile Clinic team hits the road to administer follow-up surgical care and to identify children who could benefit from surgery. Last year these clinics saw over 3,600 children throughout rural Kenya.
A disciplers ministry of 400 women seek out and help children in extreme poverty who may be kept hidden in their homes because of their disability. As more children in need of surgery are found, more and more families hear the saving gospel of Jesus and are blessed by His healing. For more information, visit bethanykids.org.
