Over Greenland Headed to Africa!


Many years ago God began to call me to areas of ministry that would forever change my life! I began ministering to inmates in Angola State Penitentiary and L.T.I. (Louisiana Training Institute). That was a fancy name for prison for 18 – 21 years old men who most of them would be transferred to a state Prison facility for most (if not all) of their lives. Prison ministry was great because they couldn’t leave or walk out early, basically their choice was a cell or my meetings. What a great training ground for a young minister. Most of my ministry consisted on trying to just convince inmates that what they were doing was wrong and they needed to let God change their lives. Not exactly a hard pill to swallow. The last twenty years have included ministry and outreach to all ages and walks of life all over the country and throughout the world. It was awesome that when I blogged last to say we would be in Africa I began to receive letters of encouragement from around the world and requests from Africa for times and dates of the meetings so different ones could attend. We live in a world where information is spread around the world so very fast!
That being said, I want to express my gratitude to F.O.M.I. (Fellowship of Outreach Ministries International- who financially helped make this trip
possible). I also would like to thank everyone who makes up the family of Crossfire World Outreach Ministries. Because of your continual sacrifice for missions and world evangelism we can be effective all around the world. Sunday, C.W.O.M./C.F.W.C. pulled together and gave two thousand dollars so we could bless the churches, camps and orphanages financially. When you go to minister it is wonderful to be able to be a blessing in the Word but I love to also be able to bless them financially. This is such a help and encouragement to those who labor faithfully and are always looking for ways to reach out with the gospel.
I want to thank everyone who has begun already to pray for this trip. Many are praying for protection, anointing and effectiveness. Even as I write this blog seven minutes ago people began gathering at the church to pray specifically for this trip. I appreciate all of you who understand the spiritual battle we all must fight when apposing darkness and bringing light.
I am so grateful for my brother in Christ and co-laborer Danny Eley. He has helped organize this trip and is traveling with me. I am excited to minister with him. Danny works faithfully with our ministry. (In the Crossfire Youth Ministry, Crossfire Maters Commission School of Ministry and Missions Ministry. He is also growing and developing into a sought after Evangelist.
I also want to thank my lovely wife and children (Who I already miss so much). I don’t ever like traveling (especially missions) without them. The nature of this trip is different than any I have ever taken in the past. We want to encourage the established churches and ministries we are already affiliated with. As well we want to reach out to many who feel like they are ministering without help and support. We want to blaze a path for unity in the body beyond boarders. I believe this trip will link us together with many in Africa so we can be a personal part of sowing the gospel rather than just sending money. My family understands the purpose of this trip. They are excited for the day when they can benefit from the trail blazed to enlarge the love and effectiveness of our ministry. My daughter Haley has continually told me to go to Africa. She is so emphatic because she told me over a year ago that God has called her to Africa and she knows I won’t let her go until I have went first! The sacrifice my family makes so others can receive ministry is so amazing. I am thankful for their sacrifice and support but I also believe the words of my father and said children just want to be included. On this trip it was not possible but I am already
looking for the day when many who feel the call of God to minister globally will be able to follow what we are establishing here.
Lastly I want to thank the churches and ministers who have requested for us to come and minister. Some are new friends and some who we have supported for many years. I am excited to see churches we built and ministries we established years ago. We can help encourage and equip but it is those who are faithfully serving day after day that truly make a difference. It is such a privilege to stand side by side with such people of integrity and share the gospel.
Please forward this to anyone who would be interested or will commit to pray for this trip! If you have received this and you do not receive the Paths to Run In Blog you can request it and subscribe to PATHS TO RUN IN at mycrossfire.com
Sunrise over Scotland!


Wow, what a wonderful sunrise over Scotland! This was the sunrise we saw from the plane! This is a huge world that God loves so much! Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and God beholds all of His creation! He loves them and desires that no one will be lost! Scripture says how will they know? Unless someone is willing to tell them, and how will they go and tell them unless some is willing to send them! Together we are able to make natural things supernatural. This trip to some might seem like this sunrise, Natural. Let me tell you there is nothing natural about a sunrise! It is truly supernatural as you behold the power, beauty and majesty of God and His creation. This trip is not simply natural it is already supernatural! Pastor Aaron
Unexpected Light that Shines Bright in Extreme Darkness!

We had a very long layover in Amsterdam! It was the middle of the night our time at home but it was in the morning in Amsterdam! We decided to catch a train into central Amsterdam instead of staying in the Airport. Most people know Amsterdam by the legal prostitution (called window shopping) the drug shops where smoking Pot and many other drugs are unregulated and completely acceptable. Not a place anyone should travel unaccountable. What many do not know is that there is a strong group of churches who are believing for and seeing a spiritual break through! We were doing the quick tourist thing when God lead us to a most interesting group!
As we walked down Canal Street it was relatively quite. The streets were lined with piles of trash from the night before. Out of one of the sex /prostitution houses they throw out a huge bag of used condoms right at our feet as we walked by. Most everything is closed but among the thousands of viewing windows were some very sad young and old girls who sell their bodies for sex. It was heartbreaking to realize this could be acceptable in any society. The sadness is overwhelming yet we were at one of the world’s international playground. As we walked by what is considered one of the most famous brothels/sex shop in the World. A very demonically oppressed woman began trying to converse with us. And we asked what was in this next shop. She said free coffee. That very next building (bordering the brothel) had pictures of the cross hanging in the window. Danny and I began looking in the window (one of the few you dared to look in) and I tried the door. It was unlocked. I cracked the door open and the most beautiful sounds began to echo out of what many years ago was another house of prostitution. We walked in and down this hall when we met this lady holding a baby. She motioned us to come in. I asked if this was a Christian worship service (they were singing in Dutch). I really didn’t have to ask
because even though I could not understand the words and the style was a bit orthodox my spirit boar witness with theirs. You could just feel the presence of the Lord. They gave us a song book and we worshiped along the best we could by humming but the spirit was very rich. When their time of worship was over they invited us to come next door for coffee. They have a small medical area (where local Doctors volunteer), 24 hour coffee shop for free coffee and housing to help people to recover and get on their feet. They work mainly helping families with children. The coffee shop had been a Jewish owned clinic. They said that after the war he never came home. Local Christians began praying there and have never stopped. It was completely amazing. Christians come there and volunteer their time to effect one of the most celebrated places of debauchery in the world. When I say it is dead center I mean it. I am not sure how you could get more centrally located. I am not sure it is possible. The light is going forth from that place and everyone locally knows about it. We were so elated. Danny and I both felt like God completely directed us to this very humble place at the right time to worship with fellow believers. We are hoping to go back and have coffee with them on our return home.
Keep praying. We are feeling very lead and have been able to witness to many and we haven't even arrived in Africa yet. Understand by the time you receive this we will be in Africa with Matthew Mba. As I write this we are on the flight from Amsterdam, Holland to Ganna, West Africa. We miss everyone so much but feel that there is great purpose and timing to this trip.
Landing in Ghana!
We landed on Ghana expecting to get our visas in the Airport without a problem like the State Dept told us! We were wrong. With all documentation in hand, we landed a very big plane in a very small airport! We got in our correct line! After waiting in line we were eventually sent to the immigration office! We were told that this would not be a problem! All of our documentation was in order. The fee for the visa was $50 U.S. each. Then the MAN walked in. An official who was not excited about us being in the country. Lets Just call him “Satan” not that he was but the Spirit that was using him. There was a man ahead of us who was there to do the same thing and they let him in no problem and gave him a visa. We were here for church proposes and he was not going to let us enter the country. He said no you must return to America. We just began praying and trusting God. We didn't have a way home so we were just there for awhile! They called our host pastors and we were relieved. When they arrived he said to them the same thing. No! He did a lot of shaking his head and saying no in a few different languages! We asked if our paperwork was right and he said no visa for you. You need to have it months in advance. We told him that the state Department had said to get it when we landed and there should be no problem well, there was a problem. We just kept praying. Finally without saying it to direct we might get in if we paid some money. He told us we could pay U.S. cash of $100 each and he would let us in without a visa but he would hold onto our passports. Then he also let us know that extra money would make it all go smoother on us. We did about $200 cash and another $200 GHC without receipt of any kind and to come back and he would see what he could do to get our passports back. He said that if we brought him another letter from the churches and didn't get our selves in any kind of trouble that we would be ok. Well we did what he said and we are in Ghana. Not necessarily legally but we are here. We then had to get our luggage. Well some very nice men were watching our luggage for us and were happy to return it to us for a price. $10 U.S. got us two of the four to walk away. And another $10 U.S. got the other two to walk away. We then meet back up with our host pastors and were followed to the vehicles by police. Ghana was starting to be very interesting. I was pretty sure God was up to something and within a few hours we would know what it was. Sorry we don't have any pictures. We were told repeatedly to not take any pictures of the officials or the Airport. We are not in America anymore!!! (Danny said he hopes Satan doesn't go to our web site and read this or we may learn more about Ghana’s prison Ministry that we want to)!
All Night Prayer and Praise—Welcomes Us to Ghana!

Well, after our debacle at the airport we finally got to where we are staying! It is very nice and clean! They have really been kind and hospitable to us! We had not slept except a little nap on the plane, just a little here and there so we were ready for bed! I had only gotten a couple hours of sleep before we left on the trip, I was staggering at that point. It was almost eleven and they said you need to stay and rest but we are going to an all night prayer and praise night! I looked and Danny and Danny looked at me and said why not! So we said come get us when it starts and they said in one hour, Midnight! We said we will be ready! I slept part of that hour and then off we went to one wonderful, powerful night of preaching, praise, worship and prayer. It was great to be involved with such great people of God. If these pictures could sing you would hear some amazing praise to God! They went non stop until five in the morning and we finally got back to go to sleep at 5:30 a.m. By then neither of us could stop talking about it so we could sleep! Eventually we got a little sleep! In fact enough we slept through our alarm the next morning!
The Ministry of the Word Cranks Up!

The next day they let us sleep in (we took advantage of some miss communication). When we awoke we got something to eat and then they wanted to take us up onto the mountain that over looks Ghana! It was very beautiful. There was a garden that was planted by the British over one hundred years ago. We went on a tour. We felt a little like we were wasting valuable time and wanted to be doing something for the Kingdom as much as possible! Then we were shown the Strangling Fichus Tree. After some explanation we both got very excited because we knew God was showing us something in His creation that demonstrates the effects of sin! Danny and I began putting the video footage together for a illustrated message that you will absolutely love. We are excited to be able to share this with you when we get back home! This is a few pictures for our time with Pastor Matthew and Gladys Mba in the garden as well as the prophetic Tree (we will share much more about this tree when we get home)!
A Powerful Visit to a Church Crossfire Helped to Build!

The people in this church had morning meetings and then they all stayed waiting for us to get through town. When we walked in, their Pastor was ministering on the favor of God. This church was so awesome. I felt so privileged to be there and I was astounded at how big the building was. They are a small congregation but one who has endured some hardship and is carrying on. Many years ago we helped them finish their building so they could put a large sanctuary on the property that they had acquired. Besides our normal monthly support we gave them a $5000 dollar offering as well as $5000 to Brother Ronni's Church in the Philippines. That depleted our building fund at that time.
It was also a time that we were desperately needing a building of our own but God was very clear so we were faithful. At that same time God gave my father a word for the church. He had retired the year previously and God told Him not to worry our church building was building itself. We had no Idea what that meant but years later we know that this seed faith offering into the Philippines and Africa would be the impetus for the building God would later give us and no money would even be needed!
Like our church they would go through some very difficult times but God prevailed. I felt like the Pastor, his lovely wife and the entire church were family. In fact this all just made me miss the Philippines and our home church of Crossfire all the more. After the meeting we got to walk the property and live their dream of ministry with them for a little while. We also took some time to play with the children!
We filmed some updates we will later be able to put on our website and our television program. This one stop would have made the whole trip worth it all!
New Converts Get the Spirit flowing out of their mouths!

We spent a little time between meetings at an internet café trying to get some of these blogs out to everyone who are signed up on Paths to Run In or to those who would look at our missions web page on mycrossfire.com. We got all we could downloaded and them it was change cloths and get to the next meeting.
Down a very long rough dirt road we come upon a church you could hear that they had already started to worship God. Oh my, could they worship! I couldn't understand the words but it was a sound from heaven. God must really love to hear the worship from around the world. Gods ears filled with all kinds of different styles, languages and cultures. We pulled up and got right into the worship.
Then they introduced Danny and he greeted the people. You can’t help to love danny’s heart and love for everyone. He also has been such a servant to us all by documenting this trip and these churches with pictures and interviews. They all love how tall Danny is! He has also been a great help at the alters and especially with what was about to come.
The pastor of this church (Pastor Mike) I knew nothing about except that he had really helped us to get into the country and out of immigration. I later found out that the church is only seven months old. He had just had his first baptismal service and almost everyone was new converts. All I can say is I had no idea. At the end of my teaching time I asked for those who wanted more of God and we prayed and saw some breakthroughs. Then I felt the Lord would have me to ask who would like to receive their prayer language. Who would like to be filled to overflowing with the Spirit. They whole church came up. Because I didn’t realize how new the church or converts were I thought maybe they had never taught that before. So I turned to the Pastor and asked if they believed in speaking/praying in the spirit. He said “sure we do but I haven't had a chance to teach on it yet.” He said go for it. Well we did just that we began to lay hands on them and nothing at first but I kept encouraging them to keep seeking. Then one after another they began to receive their heavenly language and many God slain in the Spirit. Within a few moments God was well at work and things were getting shook up! Some of the ladies had their babies tied on their backs but they were getting completely drunk in the Spirit. They were taken their babies off them and then the women God hammered in the Spirit. What was so amazing is that little to none of them knew anything about it except the fact that if they wanted it they could have all that God had for them and they could have his heavenly language if they wanted it. So they asked God and bam, God gave it to them! We went until around midnight and went my hosts took us home they were still praying and many were still slain in the Spirit. It was GOD!!! Just an amazing act of God! Well I am wide awake and full of the Spirit myself right now but it is 4:00 a.m. and they will be ready to go at 9:am for another long day. We are hoping to send this to you as soon as we can but internet access is very limited. I will keep things current as much as I can. Keep praying, we miss and love you all! Pastor Aaron
Our Second Attempt to Secure a Visa and Get our Passports!
If you have been keeping up with our blogs you will know that we got into Ghana but it took a little bribing and begging. I have no problem doing either for the Gospel. Today we returned to see if we could get our passport returned to us and if they would give us an entry visa (even though we had already been in the country for four days). (Satan) wasn't happy today but eventually gave us our passports back and even gave us entry visas.
Then we had to get our flights to Kenya purchased. These were the flights that were initially suppose to cost us! $450.00 with all the crazy issues now they ended up costing us $2410.00. So much for the budget but it will work out. God is always in control. Getting the tickets was difficult! There were times in the four hours we were there when I wanted to go screaming into the night (good thing it was day time). We are also now going to be traveling to Kenya with our good friend Pastor Matthew Mba! We will be telling his story coming up very soon. He is an amazing man who lets God use him no matter what he is going through. God has been so faithful and powerful on this entire trip.
International Pastors Strategy Meeting!

We met for lunch with Pastors from Ghana and Nigeria. The purpose was to see how Crossfire World Outreach Ministries as well as The Fellowship of Outreach Ministries International could best help and resource the churches in West Africa. We talked and I shared in short the vision of the churches beckoning to one another to win the lost in these last days. They were so candid and it was awesome to hear the experience and wisdom come from each of them as they shared. I believe that this day could be the beginning of something great! When we look back it could be the day some great unity and evangelism began in west Africa. By the way I did eat that fish and it was great! It looked a little prehistoric but it was actually Tilapia. They did cook it with all the entrails and it tasted fine until I realized I was eating the guts. Overall the food was amazing. Neither Danny or I had the guts to eat Fu Fu with Pastor Mike. We would have tried it but every time they explained what it was we got more confused. I would explain it to you but I am still confused about it. Mike liked it but I have a feeling Micky likes anything.
Love World Outreach Ministries

When we got out of the car the music was bursting out! I could hardly wait to get inside. I met Pastor Henry for the first time right at the front of the church. You could feel the presence of God from outside. We entered a dark room with only three lights bulbs but the light of God illuminated the whole room. We worshiped and danced and everyone joined in. Life changing is the best word for it! After worship they introduced me and I was going to introduce Danny who was going to speak first then I would speak. Well instead that, it turned into a three way tag team match. I spoke a very intimate message from my heart on Love with a lot of tears. Then Danny spoke a wonderful message on Living in the Presence of God. After we were done Pastor Matthew Mba wrapped it up with a challenging prayer time. It was different than any night we had experience on this trip. The word seemed to be accepted but on a more, truth in honesty way. Things were done differently tonight but God had His way on this night. It was received well and delivered in a very heart felt way. We have made many friends that will be in my heart and Love World is full of those friends!
Love World Special Dance Ministry!

While we were at Love World the youth did a special dance unto the Lord. It was awesome and they ministered with such passion and heart for the Lord. They were very special and the love in this place in unique.
Sorry, I just really miss my wife and kids!

I brought 1154 pictures of my wife and kids I brought with me on my phone. I look at them all the time. Oh and I have shown most of Ghana their pictures. They love looking at pictures from the U.S. and especially of your family. I hope and pray that I can bring them here to meet these wonderful people! God is moving in Ghana and I am Glad to be a part of that. I also miss our wonderful church family. Every time we minister I extend a greeting from everyone in our ministry family.
Praise Chapel in Ghana

We found our Praise Chapel Friends even in Ghana!
When it Rains in Ghana



Slave Trading Castle was Extremely Emotionally Moving!
I was told by a very good friend of mine from Dallas Texas (Pastor Daniel Daves) to visit the slave docks it would be life changing. When I asked Pastor Mathew and Gladys Mba they said we have to make sure you go. They had been twice and said it was amazing!
We had to get up early with only a few hours of sleep from the night before. They wanted to leave early as to not hit traffic. The traffic is crazy and you will hit it no matter what you do or what time you go. Flying within inches from all the cars around you! Honking and well, trouble with the police again but I will explain after I tell you about the castle. We video taped a little and I will add a few of the hundreds of pictures to this blog but nothing can tell how you feel! The first thing we did once we got there was to go down into the men's dungeon.

Emotion coursed through my veins. It first took away my breath for a few moments. Then, I am not sure if it was because of a spiritual thing or just my compassion. I felt like I could feel the fear they must of felt when they were put into these dark cold wet caverns. Most didn't know what was going on. They had been captured by men from their own race and then sold and imprisoned by men so different (many had never seen a white man before). Many were confused especially to not understand anyone (because of the many different tribal languages). Their was a standing order that if they fought back or struck a soldier they were to be put in a dark room and they brought out as an example and killed in front of others who might resist! The fear was overwhelming . It brought me and Danny to tears over and over. Words are not enough to explain. Especially as I stood there with my African brother and sister in the Lord. At one point Pastor Matthew Mba and I just embraced, nothing could be said you just felt it! Nothing except being there can express the feeling. I imagine it feels much like the holocaust death camps!

Above the doors to the dungeon was a church. They worshiped God right above the terror of His children. This was an ignorant and cruel time in the history of mankind. The African guide said something interesting. All this might have been wrong but they did bring us the bible and that has brought us all life who choose it. More back people now attend church around the world that white men. I didn't check his facts but I found it interesting. The Muslems in the crowd did not like that statement.

Many came to evangelize but men's greed brought pain. For some their heart started right and ended wrong but we also know that many white missionaries started right and ended right. We filmed a little Documentary of this and I hope to use it in a message soon! Because of time and space I am not able to write anymore on this blog. I hope you get the point.

Prophetic Flows at Pastor Mike's

Not one meeting has been even remotely similar. God is doing what God is wanting to do. We have no real agenda! We want to be directed by the Spirit, to be a blessing and develop friendships that will last. Letting the unity of the body of Christ cross boarders and bring life. We ministered at Pastor Mikes wonderful church for a second time. All those who had been baptized in fire and released to pray in the Spirit were there and were ready. God moved once again but there was a real flow of the prophetic gifting also. All I can say is that my life was changed the most. I am happy to say many of them were moved and testified of the conformation and encouragement of the Words given. I spoke on once you have accepted Christ we have to become committed to Christ to release the fullness of His promises in our lives. Once again we went late and they would have prayed all night. They pull it out of you and try to get more while in the American church most of the time they are trying to get you to quit. I am thankful most in our church are not like that. Many in our wonderful church would fit right in here. Especially the heart of David team. Thank you for all your prayers and support! Keep the fire burning there because it is ablaze here!
Beautiful Dance Presentation by the children and young people

The children and young people put on a wonderful dance presentation. They were so wonderful and did and amazing job. They were a little embarrassed that there CD kept skipping but they just kept going. It was wonderful and they do a wonderful Ministry to the body and the village!
Gifts Exchanged

We were not aware that they had planned to give us a gift that night but we had wanted to present the leadership with some Crossfire shirts we had brought. After we had done that, we were not expecting that they presented us with Ghana traditional clothing. They gave both Danny and I, very large and extremely awesome shirts as well they wanted my wife to have one and to let her know they would like her to accompany me the next time! We are so blessaed! They proudly put on the shirts and some are still wearing them today. Right now I am typing this at a hand made wooden table outside of a little shop next and internet café with chickens pecking at my feet! Nothing like it at home! What an experience.
Blogging in Ghana


Bribing, Begging and Kidnapping!


This might sound funny and now that it is over, it was funny. We got stopped by the police along with most everyone and they wrote us a ticket for speeding and told the driver he would have to come to court and they were going to keep his drivers license. That sounds like a common thing in the U.S. but here it is a little different. They argued for awhile and what we found was thy were arguing over the price he would have to pay the officer to rip up the ticket. There was about six officers doing this all at once. Eventually (it took quite awhile) we were able to go by giving the officer 15000 Ghana Old Credits or 15 Cedis (that’s their money) about $12 dollars U.S. He was very emphatic that we had no record of him stopping us but I did get a few pictures without him knowing it! No video at all!

Down the road a little way was a large billboard that said bribing police is a crime! That was one more interesting African experience! But later we would find it was only the beginning! On our four hour return trip we were stopped again and this time our hosts decided to take the begging, you already got us once today approach. Praise the Lord it worked!

After our evening meeting we were headed home and once again we were stopped but this time in the dark and much more aggressive. We were on a very rough road, in the U.S. we would call it un-crossable. We had been on the road for a while and then the police say white men in the car. They began yelling and we got out of the ??? Road ??? They had older automatic rifles and began yelling (in another language). One had Muslim garb on. I got out of the car with our hosts and told them we had just cam from church. I was not sure how that would go over with the Muslim officer but he never spoke up. They searched the car and the one who was leading us out then they said that some white men were just kidnapped for ransom and they were afraid we might be kidnapped also. They assured us it was all about our safety. They then let us go with a bless you pastor, sorry. We are not in Oregon anymore Toto.
We Dont Need Backpacks!


The Great Pastors of Ghana


Pastor Matthew and Gladys Mba (our Nigerian Host)



Pastor George



Pastor Emmanuel and his Lovely Wife



Pastor Roland (He is a Lion in the Prophetic)



Pastor Mike (our very good friend! he knows everyone!)



Pastor Kwame



Pastor Henry and His Beautiful Wife



Pastor Enoch (He just started his church last week, and he is looking for prayer and fellowship from other believers.)
Deception Along the Wayside!

Along the way to and from these great churches our eyes were filled with all that it is, that makes up Ghana. A wonderful hardworking people who love God. Yet we also noticed that the deception is growing stronger and stronger. The mosques, the Mormons, the Watchtower Society (Jehovah witnesses) and the lack of good Bible colleges to train Gods army of young Africans to win their country for Jesus. The truth needs to be preached. The time is now the truth must prevail now! We have a part in this. These are our brothers and sister and this is our world to tell about Jesus. Take a look at what we saw as we drove through town!
This is just a bunch of FuFu!

The other day they tried to explain FuFu to us. It is a local food kind of like a huge ball of mashed potatoes (In looks not taste) It is very starchy. You pick it up with your fingers and dip it in a bowl of sauce with chicken, bones and some don't ask. It is extremely spicy but very good.
Interviews, Testimonies and Greetings!

We are very excited to share with the church, and our television audience some wonderful testimonies, Interviews and greetings! We would love to down load them from here but the internet connection speeds are very slow for video. In fact, they are slow for text most of the time but we are making due. Danny is Doing His best to get this information out to you so you can be praying for us and these wonderful churches! Today we leave for Kenya and we don't know what it will be like there. We send our love and thank you for your prayers.
Bringing a Friend to Kenya
Pastor Matthew and Gladys Mba are wonderful people of God and we will share their testimony with you very soon! We were preparing to leave and we were wanting to bless them and their ministry especially after the Nigerian government taking their church. (we will explain later) He said he felt like God would like him to visit Kenya. I told him we were wanting to bless Him financially, but that we could not do both! We checked on his flight and extra costs and honestly we were over budget but prayed about it and I personally committed to helping him come! I truly believe pastor Matthew is called to West Africa and our friendship is for a great purpose. We are developing some amazing plans that have been in the works and in my heart for over five years. This connection will have great fruit uniting East and West Africa through this relationship beginning with Pastor Matthew and whatever is to come in East Africa. For those who are not aware, I am the President of Fellowship of Outreach Ministries international. Since its beginning, the ministry has been developing as a vehicle for unity, discipleship, and evangelism. Pastor Matthew is currently wanting to partner with us and the four countries he has ministry and relationship in now. We have many requests for fellowship and Minister’s training all over Africa. Matthew and I are not sure exactly how yet, but as we have been together we have been defining this vision. I believe this is a big reason he is accompanying us to East Africa.
The pictures below is our visit to a Pastor’s home before we left for Kenya. They have a wonderful family and this is Gladys’ sister’s home and her children also. We prayed with their wonderful son who is deaf and we prayed with their sister’s precious children. Her son needs a physical miracle so keep them in your prayers.

A Very Long Travel Day
Our hearts are still in Ghana but we are making plans to leave! Today we are spending time on updating our web information to you, packing, and coordinating our trip to Kenya. We had no one for sure meeting us at the airport and now we have two different people meeting us. Our hearts are heavy because these wonderful people of God have won our hearts that we don’t want to leave, but it is time to fly all night and go to Kenya. The schedule of today is crazy. We leave at 5:00pm for the Airport get to Kenya at 5:30am hopefully not fight through immigration for too long. We will then go right out to the Precious Life girls camp without sleep. The Trip is estimated at four hours from the airport into Maassai land. We are excited but tired already. We will be able to meet some of the Girls we have been supporting and I am already anticipating with great exhilaration to be able to go and play with the children of the area. We brought little spinning props that all the kids (and adults) love to play with. We are so excited. We will be there Thursday and Friday then off to another adventure and leadership meeting with Pastor George over the weekend! WOW what a wonderful trip and an amazing God we serve!
Arrival in Kenya (Early Morning)

The three of us (Myself, Danny and Pastor Matthew Mba) flew all night and arrived in East Africa. The Kenyan Airports is very modern and the Visas were very easy to get. We did find it a little difficult when we got to the Immigration area and realized I had left my passport on the plane. You need that! Once we took care of that stupid act of mine we were back on track.
We got our luggage, got our visas and even found both drivers waiting for us! One belonged to Pastor George Kabooty (not sure that how it is spelled). The other was a driver was from Steven Kaputoo (That is not how it is spelled). Anyway we made plans with both drivers for the next three days and how transportation was going to go and we were off to Narok (Main City in Maasai Land). A two hour drive because that is what they say anytime it will be very long. It turned into a much longer adventure. This part of Kenya started out pretty modern near the Airport, but in a few miles we realized we were in a struggling nation with many people who are in need. It started out very mountainous and then we went down into Maasai Land, everything changed. We drove past Maasai who were herding their cattle and sheep. Mud and Grass huts were all along the way! We would see some African animals mainly gazelles. We hadn't sleep except dozing off. We were so tired but we knew if we closed our eyes we would miss something. We arrived at the place we were staying (a very humble and modest hotel because there was no room at the camp.) What that really meant was they didn't think we could handle the accommodations at the camp. We changed our clothes and headed for the camp. It was morning and we were without any real sleep in a few days, but we were living on adrenaline. We arrived at the camp and here were almost seventy of the most amazing Maasai Young Women. Precious Life actually helps over four Hundred girls in Maasai Land. This was a leadership camp and these girls were getting the Word of God and being challenged on life skills. This is an amazing ministry! Much more to come!
Meeting and Spending Time With The Maasai Girls!
Our Ministry began a relationship with Precious life and Stephen a few years ago when we helped with a benefit concert! We didn’t know much about the ministry, but it had good references and the story of these girls drew us to begin some support! It began with supplying some educational materials to one small village and also to support some of the girls through our Missions and Outreach fund.
When we arrived we actually didn't really know what to expect, but we were overwhelmed by the girls and their stories. We joined up with the camp on its last two days. In fact, they extended the camp an extra day so we could maximize our time together. It was also very exciting to join with some volunteers and supporters of the ministry from Eugene Christian Fellowship.

We were privileged to join in on their classes, worship times and prayer. The Worship was amazing and the presence of the Lord was so evident. The classes ranged from general life skills to spiritual/biblical training. Stephen does a great job in incorporating both into everything they do. This camp was for around seventy of the top leadership girls! These girls were truly a blessing to us. Their testimonies were some of the most tragic I had ever heard in my life. They repeatedly asked for rain. Many told that if it didn't rain they feared their fathers would sell them in exchange for cattle or food to feed the family. One girl in particular was almost sold to a seventy year old man to join his many wives because she was too costly to the family. This is just their way of life. She testified how that the mother was able to get the father to reconsider because of the monthly support coming in for her educational needs.

In Maasai culture woman are considered a commodity and young girls a liability. There seems to be only a few ways out. Many become runaways and shame their families. Some can find ways (many through education) to become a benefit to their families. Some men will patiently wait for their daughters to grow up, get educated, find work and then when she finds a husband make a deal for marriage. For the village families, these deals usually involve goats, pigs, sheep or cattle. Precious Life helps to pay for the girls education, thus giving them a greater chance of not being sold to the highest bidder. Along with this they also give availability to the gospel which is usually rejected by the fathers but excepted by the girls.
Most of the girls feel hated and rejected by their fathers. I actually didn't hear of one girl having any kind of good relationship with their fathers. I had the privilege to share a few times. One time towards the end I shared on how a relationship with a father and daughter should be. I explained how when they read about God being their heavenly Father it does not relate to their understood culture. Tears filled the eyes before and after when I spoke of the kind of father God wanted to be to them. It was sad but also amazing to see them as they desired a good relationship with both. My life is forever changed by spending time with these girls. They have invited my girls to come to one of their camps next year to stay and to share with them. Please pray things will come together for that! It was great to be with these girls. It is such a privilege that Crossfire can help support these girls and the greatest part was to simple know them and the lovely women of God they are becoming. Please, once again, remember Precious Life and the Maasai girls in your prayers.
Receiving a Thankful Phone Call from Base of Mt. Kilimanjaro!
While I was there at the camp we received a phone call from a tribal leader who wanted to thank me for the school material we provided two months ago. He would have liked us to visit his village, but because of distance and our limited time we were unable to. This is a little Maasai village near the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro. In time it would be great to provide a well for water and a church in that village. Let us pray and see what God will do.
A Very Special Motorcycle Ride!!!

Friday Morning we walked through the largest and most modern Maasai City looking for Phone cards so I could call my lovely wife and children who I miss very much. When you see how little people have and how different cultures are compared to ours, it makes you appreciate ours and the conveniences we have. As we walked down the street, people were driving on the wrong side of the road with their steering wheels on the wrong side of their cars!(correct for them)! We walked down the street with the cows, goats, cars, motorcycles, Wait MOTORCYCLES! I have rode motorcycles all over the USA as often as possible, in the Philippines and now in Africa! I asked a guy if I could pay him to ride his motorcycle a little and he said/pointed and kind of communicated. He scooted to the back and noted yes for 100 shillings. I jumped on and we were off. I know some of you might have thought this was wasteful to spend 100
on this but after I was done I actually gave him 200 Shillings. In our money 100 shillings is about $1.30. It was worth every penny. I started off by pulling into oncoming traffic and quickly realized they drive on the opposite side of the road. Once I got that straight, We were off having fun. Very rough roads for a street bike. I hate to say my Harley wouldn't survive in Kenya very long. Wow did I get some attention. Everyone was waving and amazed to see the big white guy driving the motorcycle down the street. It was a personal thrill and a lot of fun. We then found our phone card caught a taxi and we were off to prison!
Visiting Narok Prison
We met up with our group at the prison. We had a wonderful time we were begged to come back and minister in the Narok Prison and even the surrounding prisons. The chaplain and warden were very kind and so welcoming of Christianity. I was so different than in the states. One of the most rewarding things about visiting a prison is the realization that you are not in one! I have seen and visited prisons in many countries and I have yet to find one I wish I was in. With that in mind, we did have a wonderful visit. We planted trees as a leadership and service project. They must not have thought I had enough leadership and service skills because they had me planting trees also. Trees are very important and a protected item in all of Kenya. The Chaplain is a dedicated man of God and he is doing a wonderful work. Many women inmates gave their hearts to the Lord after the girl’s visit. Christianity is welcomed and cherished in many places, but despised in others. We need to take care of the open doors we have while we still have them. We must always spread the gospel to every area of the world so everyone may know that Jesus is the way, truth and the only way to eternal life with God.
Completion and Graduation Certificates Mean So Much to These Girls!
These certificates from Precious Life which are representative of all of those who support Precious Life are the difference of having a future and not having a future to these unbelievable young ladies. They are just a piece of paper but for them they mean so much more!
Worship with the Wonderful Maasai Girls!
We experienced so many wonderful expressions of worship. Every place we have been, we have had unique worship sounds and expressions. The Maasai Girls were one more of our beautiful and very enjoyable worship experiences. They love to dance and worship God together. With what seems to be effortless they would dance and worship together. There worship was simply like children of God having fun in the presence of God. We joined in the best we could, but white boys just don't have what it takes, especially Danny and I. Their voices were like that of angels. In English and in their common tongue they would sing praises to Jesus. Their theme was to arise and shine with the light of Jesus! They truly illuminated the Glory of God, especially when they would worship!
Learning Just How Remote Many of the Maasai Truly Are!
I had the privilege of sharing with the girls the last night about being a father and how that God may or may not be like their earthly fathers. I spoke a lot about learning to forgive their earthly fathers and learning to relate to God their heavenly father. When I finished I told them that I wanted to give them my card and they could email me and receive Paths To Run In and get prayer requests. I was wanting to be as connected as we could to them. Steven kind of laughed and said I don't think these girls will be able to contact you. He then asked if any of them knew what the internet or the world wide web was! None of the nearly seventy girls raised their hands. Then he asked how many had ever seen a computer. Fifteen girls raised their hands. He then asked if any of them have ever used a computer. Only three raised their hands. I then realized that these girls are all living very remote lives. We are educating them and they are very intelligent but they do not have the same tools that the rest of the world has. Please pray for them. These are girls who have the joy of the Lord, yet live lives we cannot even dream of identifying with. They need your prayers, support and when possible our involvement in their lives.
A Chance to Serve the Maasai Girls!
We had an opportunity to serve dinner to the girls and it was a great privilege. They have grown up serving others so it was a little Hard for them to accept. I went around with the camera and they loves seeing pictures of themselves! These girls win your heart!
Having to Say Goodbye to the Maasai!
Saying goodbye was not easy. These girls have touched our hearts in just two days. I have a general idea of what my future holds, but I am pretty sure I will not face going home and being sold like a goat or head of cattle, by my father. This makes saying goodbye even more difficult. I know that even though we will do our best to support their education and their pursuit to live a Christian life we also know that their future is very uncertain. I hope to see many of them again! We stayed until around two a.m. Talking with them, taking pictures and having a lot of fun. My life cannot be the same after meeting these girls. They are so much the same as many teenage girls in America and yet so very different all at the same time. The funny thing is that even though none of them have the ability to email us they all wanted our business cards. We took so very many pictures. They all would say we want you to remember us and to pray for us. We finally left knowing that we had to get up in just a few hours to take a very long drive across the country.
Gifts form Ghana and Kenya for the Outreach Cafe at Crossfire HDQ.
We want to make sure we get some wonderful things to mark this trip in our upcoming Outreach café. For a few years we have had a heart to decorate and change our hospitality room into a full blown tribute to missions with all proceeds going to help those around the worlds to share the love and gospel in various ways. We have some exciting gifts from Ghana to add to the café when we are able to open it!
An Early Morning Trip of Terror!
We woke up very early to head out on a very long journey. We had arranged a ride with a taxi driver. Well he was kind of a taxi driver. When I say taxi driver, what I really mean is that he had a car and he walked up and offered to take us some place. The car was not really reliable and yet our Nigerian friend decided to make a deal with him to get us back to Nairobi where we would meet another driver. I thought well it will be OK. He had given us a very good price and I have a hard time passing up a good deal. We prayed and at seven am we were off! Have you ever make a deal you regretted?Oh man did I regret this one. I sat in front and Matthew and Danny were in the back. In about forty-five seconds they were fast asleep. I had only had one hour of sleep and I was sure I would sleep but boy was I wrong. This guy took off and never looked back! On the worst roads you have ever seen, bald tires, bad brakes, a shaky front end and a driver who decided that 140 KPH would get us there quickly. He was right, but would we be there alive? He passed every car we came to. Most of the vehicles and many of the signs say 80KPH MAX on them. I found out later that is because no one in their right mind would go faster. I also found out that 140 KPH is around 90 MPH! We passed on corners, we squealed the tires and would slam on the brakes. Slamming on the brakes wasn't too bad because they barely worked. I tried to communicate with him but come to find out he only knew how to ask if you needed a ride. Eventually Danny and Matthew woke up just in time for the mountain part of our trip. It was a little (very little) slower but that must have been because of the sheer cliffs and the cattle in the road. We missed all the animals and stayed on the road more than not. When you hit gravel going between eighty and ninety, you make sure all is well with your soul. We finally got into Nairobi and he didn't slow down or know where he was going so we just told him to stop and we would let the other driver find us. This was what we thought would be safer until the army came with their guns and told us this was a restricted area. They told us to leave but would not let us go! I will explain later.
Learning to Bribe Your Way Out of Trouble!
We stopped to wait for our next ride. We parked in an un-posted restricted area! This was better than the crazy drive we had just been on. We had some soldiers with automatic rifles come and tell us we had to leave but then didn’t seem to want to let us leave. We told them a driver was coming and they said OK. They checked out passports and even took pictures with us. I was not understanding what they were wanting. Finally when the other driver got their and we loaded up the other driver told us why they would tell us to leave and then make us stay. They wanted money to let us go. We paid them and they said OK now you can go but we want your email so we can email you in the United States. I guess you are important if you have a friend in the U.S. (I hope they don't run an internet scam on the side but they most likely do). This makes the fourth major bribe we have had to pay while in Africa. Can you say: corruption. We forgot to budget in the over seven hundred dollars we would have to pay to cover the corruption charges/bribes.
Arriving at Pastor’s Conference in Othaya Kenya!
We had been traveling from 7am with only a few very quick stops! We finally arrived with our second driver around 2pm. He was a slower and much safer driver. He also could speak the king’s English very well. We arrived in town and I asked if we could find a place to change before we got to the church. He found a hotel I could change in. I was thankful, but thought I am glad we are not staying here (P.S. we were). We then were taken to the Pastor’s Conference were we would meet our host Pastor, George and his lovely wife, Esther! They are wonderful people who have an overwhelming love for God. They were at the end of worship and we were escorted to the front row along with three gentlemen from Germany who were also speakers at the conference. As I began to enter in to the wonderful worship I was told in my ear “You will be speaking after this next song.” I thought to my self, OK, I really didn’t think, I just panicked because I was not ready to minister to the two hundred pastors and leaders that were there. Ready or not I was on the stage. Thank you to Jesus it went very well and the Holy Spirit moved right along with the theme I was never told about. The day was long but far from over! In fact it had just begun!
Tea After Every Meeting!
We learned quickly that hot tea with sugar is an essential part of life and is a must after every meeting and before every meeting and in-between any meetings! This is huge because of their English colonization and the fact that tea is the second largest export in Kenya.
Revival Without Notice!
I drank tea and visited with the pastors. We all had a great time getting to know one another. After a little while I heard the music start playing and after a few songs they said we have a revival meeting tonight and we had better get down there. I thought OK this will be great to relax and hear someone else. We stared down the wooden planks that both Danny and I prayed about before walking down. One of the Pastors says, “Oh yes Pastor Aaron, You are preaching tonight.” Wow! It better be God otherwise I am in trouble! Long story short! Thank you for the anointing of Jesus. We had a great meeting with some accepting Christ and others being filled with the Spirit! When the alter time was over it was???? Yes, tea time at one of the Pastors Houses! These are among some of the greatest people in the whole world! Praise the Lord for Othaya and the wonderful people who labor here.
Accommodations in Othaya
I want everyone to know that I was very thankful for the accommodations but for those who think that we are on some kind of vacation, for you I explain. The room cost 500 Shillings (about $7.10 per night). If you could get a room in the US for $7.10 per night, it would be this room! To not be rude or ungrateful to our hosts I will not exaggerate in anyway. It was called the Silent Lodge. Danny’s room was directly above a night club. How ironic! My bed was damp! Do I need to say anymore! We all left the lights on because some of the bugs won’t come out when the lights are on! It did have a flushing toilet (no toilet seat but I actually felt very good about this).
It also had a hot shower. This is a very good thing. The only bad thing is that the first night I couldn't figure out how to make it work and the second night when I did, I had a very strange experience! I could feel hot drops (very hot) and cold drops (very cold). Never in my life have I had a shower like that! In fact if you could patent that you might make some money. The CIA might buy it from you since water boarding has been made illegal. We did have some drunks try to get in the room a few times but we did (I did) get some sleep! I was grateful and the price was nice!
Danny Off to One Church, Me Off to Another Church
All of the speakers from the conference were divided up into difference churches to speak the Sunday morning service. Danny went to a Word of Faith church in the city. The Germans, Nigerians and Kenyan pastors went to various other churches and I went to the mountains. I traveled about an hour away by van and was dropped off in this little tea-growing community. Here are some of the wonderful area Pastors (My Friends) and what it looks like along the way to the mountains!
A Pastor Who Loves to Minister to His Wonderful Mountain People!
The church was a small building made of hand-carved wood beams and corrugated tin roof and walls with a sawdust floor. The benches they sat on were 4 to 5 inches wide. The pastor and I walked through the small village and I had the time of my life for the next four to five hours.
We walked to the top of the mountains and the pastor told me how he and his wife walk three miles through the tea mountains and jungle to pastor this church. Each week he actually makes three five miles walks to visit the local people and pray and invite them to church. This pastor told me how he loves these people so much. My eyes filled with tears as I listened to him speak of his love and calling to these people. Many of which had never heard the gospel.

Walking the Streets of Thunguri
I say streets because there were two of them and they crossed at the top of a mountain. There is a huge catholic church and he is the only Pentecostal/charismatic church anywhere close.
We walked and the taverns were full. They drink homemade alcohol for the purpose of forgetting your problems.
I asked if we could invite any of the drunks to church and we did. None of them took us up on it, but we were received well and they wanted pictures with us. We then headed back towards the church.
Children's Church of Thanguri
As we walked up close to the church, he took me to se his children’s church. This was a very old building about 12X10 made of solid rough rock (much like a cave). The children were singing and enjoying the presence of the Lord with hands raised and dancing, yet they had not one instrument. I was welcomed and I took a picture of these precious children.
The Wonderful Church of Thanguri
I have told you bits and pieces about this church, but I want to somehow explain one of the most touching experiences of my life.
I entered this small church packed with people as they were worshipping the Lord. After I entered, the children entered. For the next four hours, they would pay 100% attention. They were the most amazing kids I have every seen. They finished worship, the pastor spoke for about an hour. I thought I wasn’t going to preach. I was wrong. I didn’t realize that the first two hours was just Sunday school. Then the morning worship began and oh my goodness could they worship. They apologized for not having a keyboard or much of a sound system. Honestly, they didn’t need it. They sounded amazing and their worship rang out throughout the community and down the side of the mountain. They had a drum player and a man who played a homemade steel ring with an old large drill bit. They worshipped, danced, shouted and had a wonderful time in the presence of God. The anointing was so strong. All ages entered in from the youngest to the oldest. Then each age group had a presentation dedicated to me. They youth did two, one with the drums and the other with the electronics. I didn’t know what they meant, but they were very excited about it. As they began, I realized what they were talking about. What they meant was that they had techno music on a warped cassette tape. They sang and danced. It was incredible. Then it was testimony time and they all lined up to tell how god had changed their lives and filled them with the spirit. Then a woman preached for about 30 minutes. Then after what was already the longest service in history, they asked me to preach and the pastor told me that I needed to preach at least one hour. I started by asking for a picture before I began but no one knew how to use the camera so we gave lessons and below you will see the picture. I preached and then asked to pray for all of those who would like it. Every person received prayer and a hug. Not one person left out. Every one stayed. It was unbelievable. I turned it over to the pastor and he finally closed and dismissed. But then they had an hour long leadership meeting. He let someone else run it so that he could have tea with me and his beautiful wife. I intentionally left out a large part of what happened in this meeting, but I will share it with you next. How we all have made a lasting difference in this church and community!
Buying a New Keyboard for Thunguri
I felt like God laid it on my heart to help this wonderful church. They have so much love and spirit, but not a lot of money. I told the church in Thunguri that I wanted to present an offering from Crossfire World Outreach Ministries to buy them a keyboard, sound system and microphones. They began to cheer and cry and thank the lord for His provision. It was so encouraging and one of the greatest things I have ever been a part of. I wish I could have done that for every place we went, but God made it clear to me that I needed to do this. They have already exchanged the $650.00 American money into shillings and bought the keyboard, sound system and microphones. They have already sent me text messages to me saying how much they appreciate the gift and are excited to worship with their new instruments and sound. I can almost hear the Mountain and valleys around ringing with their beautiful worship!
Two More Pastors Meeting (without Batteries)
We had two more wonderful meetings to end the Pastor’s Conference in Othaya. This was a very enriching and wonderful time! I will only be in this area of Kenya a few more days but they have asked to stay one more week and conduct another Pastor’s Conference next weekend. I am scheduled next weekend in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. I could reschedule but my wife is meeting me in New Orleans and I am sure she would fly to Africa to kill me if I extended this trip!

The worship was wonderful and God moved mightily in the meetings! We are so blessed to be a part of this family (the Family of God)! I would show you some pictures but our batteries in the Digital Camera and the Video camera both died! We did get a few pictures of worship.
Danny was a huge help because they we wanting to hand out certificates to each Pastor and church leader who finished the training, but no one had a computer or an adequate printer. They were trying to find someone they could pay to produce the certificates within a few hours. I told them we had a portable printer in my bag at the hotel. So while I was preaching the last meeting Danny worked like a mad man and finished all the certificates for them and that helped them with the conference budget.
Having to say goodbye to the wonderful People of Othaya!
It is amazing to me because everything that they do for the Lord also has to be weighed with an understanding that everything they do is more difficult. Traveling is more difficult, Laundry is more difficult and everyday things we take for granted just simply takes much longer. This is a picture of our wonderful hosts who have a very nice home. Even with a much better than average home they have a shower in the hall way in which they also have to wash their clothes and it is used for many tasks that we often take for granted. They were so wonderful to us and worked hard to make us feel at home and made us beautiful meals. We had to say goodbye. And head off to our next adventures in serving God.
Traveling Further Across Kenya
Today was a travel day with some great excitement and an opportunity to talk over the expansion of fellowship throughout Africa and specifically Kenya through the Fellowship of Outreach Ministries International. We left Othaya with headed for Nakuru. We passed so many places and people I would have loved to visit, but we were on a mission. We passed baboons, monkeys, African birds, zebras, and warthogs on the roadside. We also stopped at a reserve for lunch and saw Zebras and many other animals on a short nature walk! We were so close to animals that you normally only see in a picture or zoo. Next time I come I hope we can make time for a full tour of a national reserve! It was a very long trip but the we finally made it to Nakuru.It was a great day!
Arriving in Nakuru!
We arrived in Nakuru at the home of George and Esther. It was dark and we had traveled all day. We had such rich fellowship that the day seemed to go fast. This is where we will be staying for the next few days! They had a wonderful home! They had not lived here long. They are actually considered refugees from last years tribal clashes. They were attacked in their home and George was cut severely. He then went back to his home and church to try and protect things. Over 3000 were killed in these clashes. George is an amazing man of God who risks all that he has to openly share the gospel and bring peace to his village. He oversees around thirteen churches. His wife is a true woman of God. She works hard taking care of her family and shares in many of the responsibilities of the ministry. We are very thankful for their hospitality. They have a comfortable place with bunk beds where we could all have our own beds. Their children actually gave up their room to give us a place to sleep. Their children are wonderful and we have grown to love them very much.
Mosquito Nets for All!
We went to go to sleep and thought we wouldn't need the Mosquito nets, but quickly found out we were wrong! Unlike American energy efficient homes that are completely sealed, most African homes are open to the outside! Their isn't air conditioning in most cases, so keeping windows open or just having holes in the concrete (or boards) keeps a little draft going. The mosquitoes spread malaria so the nets are very important.
Just Outside!
We didn’t have far to go to see the beautiful and needy people of Nakuru, Kenya. We stepped first thing in the morning. Just outside and we began to give out some of our toys to the kids and they were so grateful. Every moment of this trip has been amazing.
Purchasing Corn Flower for those in Rongai!
After giving out a few toys to the children we headed out to buy corn flower for those in Pastor George’s community, school and church. The rain fall has been very low and people are literally starving to death. If they can eat one time a day, they consider themselves fortunate. This little that we will buy will help many families eat for three days. It seems so little, but if we would all do what we could and be grateful for what God has given us that really would make a difference.
The Corn is Dead, We need Rain!
Drought seems to us like an inconvenience or maybe we can’t water our lawn. To those in Africa who cant afford to buy food that they don't grow, it means literally starving to death. It is winter in Africa and the rain is almost nonexistent. We need to pray for all of Africa. We need to do all we can. The pictures are of corn fields that are dead. If it rains now the corn is already lost but they could still have a potato crop. We need to join the African church and pray for rain. The picture is of one of the thousands of dead corn fields we passed by. Large ones and small ones in almost every yard large enough to have a crop has corn that was planted and is now dead corn. The boy with the bike is one of the millions who carry water by the jugs so they have something to drink at home.
Ministry to the Very Precious People of Rongai!
We arrived in Rongai and I wasn't sure what to expect! What I found was people much like our Crossfire family. People who love to worship, love the Word and want to see God move supernaturally. Many of these precious people have been burned out of their homes, many are starving and yet they have a profound love for God. The school was not in session, it wasn't a normal church day, but they gathered by walking for miles to see what God would do! As always, God was faithful. This is a great ministry that is making a difference.
I was wondering exactly what I was suppose to minister on. The Pastor got up and gave the opening of my message and then another pastor shared the introduction/preface. Once they were done it was clear that the message I had planned on speaking was the one for the day! I was grateful for the direction and anointing of the Holy Spirit.

The Pastor of Rongai and I
We had a wonderful time in this church and with this anointed Man of God!
God Brings the Hard Rains—Blessings!
During the message I used the illustration of needing rain and no matter what our needs, we need to begin to trust God! We can trust Him even for rain. In the middle of the message it began to rain. Not a little, huge loud rain. The people rejoiced and listened intently. I had to yell, just so they could hear because the rain was so loud. I am not taking credit for the rain but I truly believe God was very responsible for the rain and the timing of the rain. They said, it showed Gods blessing on us and blessing on His promises.
God Moves Prophetically!
At the end of the message God began to stir up some incredible gifts. I asked for those who would like prayer. For hours I prayed for them. God gave incredible prophetic words and words of knowledge. I could not have asked for any more. It was amazing! They came young and old. Over and over they would cry and many asking, “how did you know that?” I didn’t know anything but God decided to show me pictures or visions which I explained. I also was given words to speak over them. They were amazing words. I was more blessed than anyone! Pastor Matthew began to pray with some young men for salvation. Thank you Jesus! He loves His people.
Feeding the People of Rongai Now and for Three days!
We wanted to bless these wonderful people with dinner today and food to take home. They made a wonderful meal for everyone who came that day. They actually killed, butchered and cooked a lamb during the meeting. It was almost dark outside by the time service was over but we were able to distribute food to these great people. We gave out bags of corn flower. In the U.S. we could hardly get people to take a bag of corn flower. That was not the case for them. It is the difference between eating or not eating and for some starvation. Giving is a wonderful thing. In fact it could possible be the most rewarding thing we do. We are wired to give, if we are Spirit led we are givers. God is a giver and so should His people be. Giving really feels great!
Just a Look at the Children of Lampstand!



They Walk Home for Miles, We Drive Home for Miles!
After the day was over, they had received ministry, a meal and some food to take home! It was heartbreaking to walk them just walk off into the dark jungle! Some down little roads and others just disappeared into the dark. Many would have to walk for miles. No flashlights or candles. They left happy and thankful. It was humbling! Let us be thankful! They walked home for miles and we drove home for miles! Big differance!
Children Without Toys
We left the house where we were staying and begun walking down the street. There is one thing I have noticed every place we have traveled in Africa, one simple but sad thing and that is that there is very little and in most cases, no toys! We brought a few toys with us and have had an extreme amount of fun giving them away. It is life changing to see their little faces light up when you give them a simple little toy. In the pictures you will see a little guy with a broken truck. Really it is half of a truck with the tires worn off! All the other kids wanted to take the little toy truck from this little boy. His little bother kept fighting them off so he could keep it! They value such simple little things. One toy you saw a lot was a tire. Yes, all over you would walk and drive pass kids playing with tires. Bald car tires have value. We have so much and I hope in some little way this helps us appreciate what we have. The poorest of the poor in our country, are rich in comparison to most in other countries. There are many who try and talk the United States of America down. Don’t let people do that. We have freedoms that have been fought for and many have died for them. We have so much. Let us be thankful for our country, our blessing and do all we can to make a difference with what we have. Appreciate and learn to give, instead of just heaping more onto ourselves. There is nothing wrong with having things if you appreciate what you have and are willing to share with others with what you have been given. Especially when we realize the gift of Christ we have been given enough to share it with those who don't have Him!
The Walk to the Dump Dwellers of Nakuru!
We took a short walk up the street from where we were staying! I could have almost thrown a rock to this place just up the street they call the Hilton trash dump. We walked up the street and the children are everywhere. After a few minutes our host told us we could no longer openly take pictures. The reason was the people would attack us or break into the pastors homes to get the money we might make from the pictures. We had to ask to take pictures and most of the time the answer was no. Once the answer was “if you take a picture we will kill you (Cut You)!” We had to be careful but we took as many pictures as we could safely take, so we could share them with you. It was difficult living situations everywhere, but with every step it seemed to get worse. As we got into the area, we were with the Pastors who minister in the area and run a wonderful ministry we will tell you about later. They told us how they helped them get tin for the roofs so when it does rain their shacks would not leak. They also told us how they are working to help them be resourceful. The women make bags and they sift through the trash to find anything resalable, or useable. This is not American trash. This is trash from a very poor country. They rush out to the land fill when word gets out that there is good stuff. They have to get to it before it is smashed by the huge caterpillar. As you can imagine the water in the area is not drinkable and yet they drink it. The animals and humans root through the trash hoping to find the big score, Something to eat!
Unimaginable Conditions
Living in the dump is unimaginable and yet for some they have no choices. In the U.S. you have a lot of chances and choices that in other countries you just don't have, especially in third world countries. As you look into these faces, both young and old, you don't see what you might think. I would have thought that their eyes would be full of hopelessness. In fact they don't know what they are missing. Most of them are just working hard at staying alive. They smile because you smile at them. A small gift is enough to make their day. If they eat today, they thank God, He has taken care of them. Not all, but many! Some, are drug addicts, alcoholics, and the like. Of those who are these things, they have more reason to be troubled that most of us. Many of them are just people. Many are very hard working people who try to love and take care of their families. The conditions are unexplainable, but the people are who Jesus died for. He LOVES each one! Right now! He loves them. If you have done it unto the least of them, you have done it unto me. Who are these people who live in the dump. They are the least of them. Who are they? They are each of us, born in a country without a choice and without a chance! They need us, they are all over the world and we need to take just a little of what we have, month after month and do what we can, to feed them, help them and tell them about Jesus.
Buying Purses to Feed Families
In the middle of this city dump community we find how these ladies have pulled together to support each other, their community and their families. They take plastic trash bags and clean each one. Then they cut them into strips. After that they weave them together into bags. These bags will be made available soon for those who would like to see them or buy one to support our outreaches in Africa. We purchased eighteen bags that are amazingly strong and full of ingenuity! The cost was three hundred shillings each. That is under five U.S. dollars. They do so much for so little. After they make them they take put their names on them and then take them to one house (if you can call it a house). This house sells the bags and tries to find a market for them. Working together because they are all hungry. After we bought the bags the ladies who made the bags come running and thanked us for buying the bags. They asked if we could take pictures with them. They didn’t have a camera but they wanted us to have pictures of them. We found this all over. They would ask to take a picture with us but they had not camera but loved the thought that you might have a picture of them. Some were angry about pictures and others asking you to take them. These pictures are where we bought the bags and the women who made them are holding them.
The Animals always Find Their Way Home
“There are animals every place”- One of the funniest things I heard, yet I have to admit it is true! I asked about the animals that wander the streets and what happens to them. They said they go home at night! I said “no way” but it is true. They said they are just like dogs. They know where home is and they always go Home! Yes I am talking about chickens, cows, ducks, turkeys, pigs, sheep, goats. They eat at the sides of the road and then go home at night. They are every place and the penalty of stealing one is very harsh so no one bothers them. They let them out in the morning and they go home at night. Crazy but???? True!!!! The government has actually worked out a deal with the Maasai concerning their livestock animals. If a car hits one they will pay for it, and if a lion kills one the government will pay them for the lost animal - all this in trade so that they will agree to not hunt the wild animals!

Click here to see all of the pictures from our
2009 Africa Trip