The war in Ukraine continues to fill the country with conflict and violence. As we continue in prayer for our friends and neighbors to Romania, we also continue to send support. One of our main partnerships has been through our friend Jaco. This year, we have supported his ministry to amputees in Ukraine.
The coffee shop space is envisioned as a vibrant community hub that will not only will help in time support our mission financially (in time) but also serves as a welcoming space for meaningful engagement around God and the Christian faith. Through weekly events like music concerts, book discussions, Bible study sessions, debates, outreach events, we aim to create an inviting atmosphere for those curious about Christianity and God.
Because of your generosity and belief in our mission in Tanzania, we have just celebrated an unforgettable milestone: The first graduation ceremony for our children who have completed their primary education. Words cannot fully capture the joy and pride we experienced on that beautiful day.
We were blessed to have Mark Yeazel with us, bringing years of experience in dairy farming. He is committed 100% to the construction of our Eternal Families Tanzania Dairy Farm which, upon completion, will address our village's milk supply challenges and enhance nutrition crucial for child development. Initial steps that have been taken, include securing the 9-acre farm with fencing for security and biosecurity measures. Construction recently started for the herdsman's house following receipt of blueprints for the dairy building.
It's been over a year since we introduced you to Elvis, a Ukrainian refugee attending the Eastern European Bible College in Oradea, Romania through your support of RTC. Since then, Elvis completed the Bible college program and moved closer to the Ukrainian boarder to work with children in need.
As we step into this new chapter, it brings me great joy to share the beginning of a fresh school year in Tanzania. Recalling our December 10th, 2023, Sunday Stories, we celebrated the conclusion of the second semester with 202 students. This semester, due to our now established reputation, we are thrilled to welcome 221 new students to our school, expanding our school family to a total of 423 students!
What a joy it was to meet new friends and see familiar faces at ICOM 2023. One particular encounter with a couple who were around in the early days of RTC was used by God as an encouragement and reminder. Take some time to read the story below as Andy recounts an experience from 25 years ago that God seems to still be writing and rewriting today.
