Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9 NIV
Read below how two congregations are sharing God’s goodness with their neighbors. Doing good is a kingdom value.
Chawama, Lusaka, Zambia
In July, 21 youths from the Chawama congregation traveled to a home for girls in Chongwe to share the love of Christ. This was our third visit, and with hearts stirred by compassion and desire to serve, we put together our little savings, resources, food, and clothes to share with our dear sisters.
The foundation is home to 17 girls between the ages of 3 to 16. These precious girls come from painful pasts, many having faced the trauma of abuse or the deep sorrow of losing their parents. It is a place filled with young hearts in need of love, hope, and belonging.
After our first visit, we were moved by compassion and a deep sense of responsibility. So, we made the collective decision to adopt this orphanage as part of our Chawama Love Avenue. What started as a visit quickly became a calling.
We took it a step further by each adopting a sister. This personal one-on-one connection has allowed us to demonstrate God’s love in more tangible ways. We have been able to all pray for our sisters by name, and they do the same for us. It also allowed us to build a more personal relationship with each of the girls.
The impact of this has been profound for the Chawama youths. These visits have been a chance to experience joy in service and to share the love of Christ. We spent time playing fun games, sharing stories, praying, singing, and simply being present.
These are not just acts of charity — they are moments of connection and affirmation of God’s love poured out through us. We listen to their dreams, share laughter, and see firsthand how love can begin to restore what life has broken.
Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8
Love is not passive, it moves, it acts, and it heals. In adopting this orphanage, we are committing not only to providing material support, but to building relationships, offering spiritual guidance, and being a consistent presence in the lives of these children. We believe that through Christ’s love, we can make a lasting impact. This is just the beginning of a journey we pray will be filled with growth, transformation, and greater things yet to come for both the children and us.
By Puisezo and Damiano Ngula, youth participants
Chawama, Lusaka, Zambia
Belton, Missouri, US
On Sunday, August 3, the Love Avenue team of GC Belton hosted a Family Game Day and Back-to-School Giveaway. Our aim was to support the children and families of our neighborhood.
God provided beautiful weather, cooler temperatures, and warm hearts that welcomed the new faces that attended. It was a fun way to end the summer and help our local families get the school year off to a great start! The festivities included:
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- A picnic-type atmosphere with a hotdog cookout and outdoor yard games.
- Fun indoor games with facepainting, a cake walk, human tic tac toe, and music.
- Prizes and school supply giveaways (backpacks, notebooks, writing utensils, etc.).
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After our back-to-school giveaway, we have school supplies leftover. We will connect with our local school district to see if there are other opportunities to connect with individuals who could benefit. I’m grateful for our congregation’s generosity in giving to support the ministry of Christ.
I’m employed part-time with the Belton school district as a bus driver and was permitted to bring a school bus to the event as a way of promoting the giveaway. In addition to that, attendees looking for work were given the opportunity to apply for a job with the bus company.
To close the event, we provided a short ride on the school bus, which the children enjoyed immensely. This fun event was one of many ways we can serve our community!
Terry McDonald, Pastor
Belton, Missouri, US
By Cara Garrity, Development Coordinator
