After years of anticipation, the new building for the boys' orphanage is a reality. So real that the facility was dedicated on July 10, 2010. Many, many people were in town for the Centennial Celebration of Methodist in the South Congo Episcopal Area.
It was Saturday in the late morning. The crowd was gathered in a rectangle in the open area between two of the buildings. Any disorder from ongoing construction was smoothed over for the event. Two large banners greeted the crowd and identified the new buildings.
Many local people were in attendance. Members of the three international delegations and four visiting United Methodist bishops were seated. All the boys from the existing orphanage were there, most dressed in matching orange t-shirts. Many girls from CEJAL I were seated in another section. A women's ensemble in matching UMW clothing was ready. A podium was set up in the middle. Programs were handed out.
The bishop and four others processed in, the bishop in an impressive purple chasuble over his white robe, and were seated along the fourth side of the opening. The liturgy was in Swahili. Speeches were all translated into Swahili or English, which ever was needed. The boys sang one number in Swahili.
Three boys from the orphanage spoke. The youngest boy stood in his wheelchair on the stumps of his amputated legs to speak clearly to the gathered crowd.
Rev. Francine Tshisola, director of the two orphanages, rehearsed the history of the orphanages and the partnership of her Episcopal Area with the Pacific Northwest Conference. Representing the Pacific Northwest Conference, Barbara Dadd Shaffer spoke about the nature of the partnership.
Moving from serious matters to a bit of fun, she called forward boys and girls from the orphanages to hand them each a trio of soccer balls from churches and individuals in the PNW Conference.
As the liturgy was ending, the bishop asked a question not in the printed program. "What names shall be given to this place?" The answer was "Mama Francine and Mama Barbara". The place erupted in energy. Francine was completely surprised. What a great recognition of her leadership.
The new buildings are dedicated by the people of the United Methodist Church to the ministry of caring for orphaned boys. It is anticipated that the boys will move in by the end of September. What a privilege for our delegation to represent the PNW Conference at this event.
To read the complete article written by Barbara Dadd Shaffer please visit the Current News page.
Sponsor a Boy
Learn about how you can sponsor a boy at the Jamaa Letu II Orphanage by contacting Joyce Rhoades at hfca@stanwoodumc.org.
Our sponsorship program at Jamaa Letu involves the entire orphanage. There are more than one sponsor for each boy at any given time. Funds go into a large pot of support money to benefit all the children. Sponsor money also goes towards their houseparents who give them guidance, love, and encouragement each day. It pays for the building that shelters them, the running water, and electricity. To cover all these expenses we need at least several sponsors for each child.
EMANCIPATION GRANT SCHOLARSHIPS
Commitment to the children of the Jamaa Letu Orphanages does not end when they reach 18 years of age. We provide the opportunity for you to continue supporting a child. These young people have no other way to pay for ongoing education or trade school tuitions as they move towards independence. The total annual support of a emancipation is about $2500. We are asking you for an annual commitment of $500 towards an emancipation. You will receive a photo and information about the young person you are supporting. Your pledge may be paid at one time or in installments.
Please email hfca@stanwoodumc.org for additional information.
To view and print our new Sponsorships & Emancipation Grants brochure please click HERE. For a single 8.5" x 11" sheet tri-fold brochure print page two on the back of page one.
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