In April of this year I was privileged to take my second trip to Kigali, Rwanda. The purpose of this visit was to encourage our long-time family friends Simon and Kedress Nziramakenga. They are truly amazing people with a heart for the people of Rwanda and a vision that God has given them to minister to them in a holistic manner that really touches the core needs. Simon and Kedress currently have several projects under way that are keeping them extremely busy! They are constructing a church building that will seat 2500 and also include classrooms and offices for the church staff. Simon also works on an ongoing basis with the pastors of the 20 churches that he has started throughout Rwanda. They are building the first children’s hospital in Rwanda that will help train doctors and serve the staggering needs of the local children. Approximately ten years ago they also started Good Shepherd Primary School and today there are 300 students who attend. The school is in need of much repair due to torrential rains that have adversely impacted the school grounds and buildings over the years. Local building officials and codes have also mandated that the school is to have bathroom facilities updated to include running water and proper plumbing to improve sanitary conditions. Thankfully these issues are being addressed due to generous sponsors and many prayers!
A highlight of the trip for me was visiting the home and meeting the family of the child we sponsor through Think Compassion. ChuChu Bamurange and her family live in a modest home close to the school. Her father, Benjamin, is ill with a lung disease and is unable to work. Her mother, Madeline, makes necklaces to sell at the market to support the family. Keeping up with the family’s needs and expenses is difficult to say the least. ChuChu loves attending Good Shepherd Primary and her parents are grateful for the help they receive for her tuition.
My family and I are also grateful for the opportunity to help ChuChu and her family by supporting her ongoing education through Think Compassion. We pray for ChuChu and her family and enjoy being a part of her life as she continues to grow and develop.
God Bless,
Paul and Jennifer Woods
For more pictures from Paul’s trip download the latest Think Compassion newsletter.