Their faith was incredible, and their story of God's work in their ministry had me in tears nearly the whole 3 hours.
Mary had a desire and calling in her heart from childhood to run a children's home in Africa. She married Clive and together they pastored churches and worked with Teen Challenge for many years. Not until they were 50 years old did they move to Africa to begin what is now New Life Home Trust.
Her patience to wait on the Lord and support her husband's ministry was incredible.
Her husbands heart to reach the lost and hurting is incredible.
They came to Kenya 19 years ago and 14 years ago this ministry began. Mary read in the paper about 35 babies that had been abandoned at a local government hospital because they were HIV positive. She responded immediately, not willing to let these children be marginalized and grow up in a hospital. She took some and then more into her care. Clive & Mary even adopted one of the first babies they cared for. They cared for the babies in their own home, before moving to a larger home, and finally their current property that is home to approx 48 babies.
In that 14 years, God used a Buddhist business man, a Muslim government leader, a British friend, a giant tea corporation, a Kenyan lawyer and dozens others to build His (God's) ministry to orphans and vulnerable children. They now have 6 homes throughout Kenya caring and have cared for almost 1000 children in 14 years. Most steps along the way, Clive and Mary could not see how God would provide for the next step- but EVERY time He provided.
They have not bought any clothes or toys since the beginning of this ministry (not including a few clothing items to start off). Only about 50% of their monthly financial needs are covered by regular donors and foundations, but the remaining funds have come in every month from generous givers.
I listened with tears in my eyes as they told their story with wide eyes and huge grins. They are nearly 70 years old but have more energy than me in my 20s! It is so very evident that their strength comes from the Lord who provides for their every needs and has given them a front row seat to the incredible work He is doing in Nairobi.
Clive & Mary said several times they feel as though they are living in the book of Acts- adding chapters with each new day.
They are incredible Spirit filled people living every step by faith and trust in God almighty.
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