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Kenya Post Trip Blog - Mallory Retherford

8/22/2016

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It’s been a full week since we’ve been back in the States and I’ve already found myself pondering on how I can go back to Africa next year. I miss the simplicity and who I was when I was with those kids. Fully focused on the presence of the Lord. There’s no better feeling than this and it’s hard to come by in this fast paced life here. A mentor of mine had warned me about coming back from an experience like this and it had been my biggest prayer. She told me not to be bitter, but to work on loving others the best I could because no matter how much it sucks, no one else is going to understand what I had experienced.

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I walked into work two days after I got back to people complaining about their lives, shootings that were going on in the world, and the worthless PokemonGo game that everyone was playing. I felt invisible almost and I could feel my flesh just eating at me. I was about to burst with all this emotion in my head, when one girl asked, “Mal, didn’t you just get back from a trip or something?” Here was my chance to share what the Lord had done. My emotions went away and I wore a smile. Once I shared a little bit of my story and what we did I got the typical response of “Wow, that’s awesome!”  But then they quickly went right back to talking about work issues. Feeling shutout and rejected I went on with my duties. I was so irritated that I couldn’t sweep away this feeling when I knew it was coming all along. I didn’t love them well in that moment and accept that they didn’t know about my trip. How could I be so selfish? This wasn’t who I wanted to be when I got back. I prayed in my head for the Lord to forgive me. I wanted everyone to know who I was over there. That the Holy Spirit had vastly overtaken me and nothing else mattered. But I fell guilty for being back to my old ways already. ​

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I took this as a test from the Lord; I had failed. But it’s okay I knew this was coming. I was going to move on and be better next time. On the bright side, I have tremendous support around me from close friends and family. They have helped the process of coming back and getting into the swing of things. In a book I’ve been reading, it discussed being in a phase of resting with the Lord. I think this is my biggest struggle in my faith. “Don’t wrestle, just nestle,” It’s always been hard for me to be completely content with who God made me and content with the situations I’m put in. I think back to being in Africa and sitting with the group of older girls underneath the rusted basketball hoop feeling so free and captivated by God’s love. Talking and laughing with them was effortless and simply enjoyable. I wanted to feel that way in my daily chaotic life at school, work, and with my friends. This coming year will for sure be a growing year for me. I’m confident that God is taking me places far greater than I can imagine and new responsibilities are coming my way. I’m excited for the challenge to stay on the course and grow in His word.

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One of the last few devotions we had as a group before we left, I wrote down some goals that I wanted to accomplish this year. They all led back to guarding my heart and being patient, while continuing to stay hungry and to know Him more and more. I want to dig into His Word and put it into practice. It doesn’t matter what has happened in my past, I am going to be fresh on my toes, ready to attack every day as it comes. “Lord, have your way with me”; was my continuous prayer coming home. I need Him in the community I’m in. It’s not going to be easy, but I love the challenge.
I am so excited to be part of the MOAM family now and have friends that share a common passion. All pushing each other forward and loving each other in prayer. Thank you MOAM and everyone who donated that helped make this process possible! This trip forever shaped and molded my heart and my walk with the Lord and I can’t thank you enough!
-Mallory Retherford, Ohio Women's Basketball

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Kenya Update #4 - Mallory Retherford

7/10/2016

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It is truly amazing to me that I am even in Kenya right now. It blows my mind when I think about the process of my prayers and finding MOAM. I had been praying about wanting to do a mission trip, but wasn’t sure how likely that would be or when it would be. Little did I know a few weeks later while scrolling through twitter I would find the answer to my prayers. It was like the Lord literally just put it right in front of my face because still to this day can’t remember exactly how I found the information. The first thing I read was that the trip was for student managers. Check. The second was the financial support that MOAM provided. Check. The only thing I needed financially was about to be supported by an internship a friend had just informed me I could do with her. Check. Answered prayer, after answered prayer…after answered prayer; I had to go. There were too many open doors God gave to me not to apply.

Words aren’t enough to capture Gods grace that has swept over me already while here in the village. A year ago, I would be planning to get with friends for the fourth of July. Instead I am happily surrounded by one hundred children with their contagious laughter and smiling faces. The past week God has given me the strength to overcome even the smallest tasks that I wouldn’t have had the confidence to do before. Leading with this team of managers has meant the world to me. Being in a community with people who have the same passion for sports and to serve The Lord warms my heart.

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The first few days here we got to jump right into teaching some basketball. I was pumped to teach them defense and share what my high school basketball coach had always taught us. I told all the kids to scream ENTHUSIASM then slap the ground to get them low in the defensive stance and for more intensity. Later that evening a group of kids ran up to me screaming “ENTHUSIAM,” and hit the ground with a huge smile on their face looking up to me showing me what they’ve learned. It was music to my ears and put a huge smile on my face. Being able to share that with them, knowing they want to actually learn and listen to what you are saying feels so good. That’s the thing that gets me with these kids. They are so eager to listen to what you have to tell them. They want to learn new skills. Its fun teaching them because they smile, have fun, and take nothing for granted. Even evenings watching them play ping-pong or dancing and learning new songs with them has been a blast. They have enthusiasm for the life that God has given them. Nothing else matters on earth to them but knowing who gives them their strength each day.

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What we are doing here isn’t at all what I thought it was going to be like. I knew I was going to have to step out of my comfort zones and have more confidence in my faith than ever before. With the love of these children and the maturity of their faith, I have completely set aside all that I assumed and have been all ears to them. They have honestly showed me how mighty our God is. Just being in the presence of these kids has helped me to process my walk with the Lord and has shown me His love for me. All these kids do is love you. I won’t go ten steps walking around this village without someone yelling my name and waving like they didn’t just see me thirty minutes ago. I’ve been able to slow time down while being here and have learned to be still with the Lord.

We have built so many good relationships with these kids. It is definitely going to be hard to say goodbye at the end of this coming week. Even between us MOAM managers it has been such a fulfilling experience. Having brothers and sisters in Christ, serving our God and growing in our faith has been eye opening for me. This whole trip I have been on cloud nine, and I can’t thank The Lord enough for bringing me here. I hope to share what God has done for me when I return to the states and how special that these kids are. They will always have a special place in my heart. 

-Mallory Retherford, Ohio Women's Basketball

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Liberia Update #3 - Anna Cho

7/10/2016

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Grace like Rain

During my commute to work before I came to Liberia, the radio kept playing songs about trusting the Lord through every storm. But little did I know that my commute was the Lord preparing my heart for these three weeks. And when he said to trust him through every storm, he meant it.

When we landed on the single runway at Roberts International Airport in Liberia three weeks ago, I did not fully comprehend that I was in another country with three complete strangers here to teach sports while sharing the gospel. Shuffling through the crowd in the hot, humid baggage claim area, I attempted to find my second luggage with all the sports equipment for the children, but my mind started to panic as reality sunk in that the bag was nowhere to be found. This was the beginning of the Lord showing me his sense of humor and was the first blatant reminder to trust him in all circumstances.

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When we think of Africa, we often think of this impoverished continent that is constantly suffering; however, my time here in Liberia speaks of a different truth. A truth that reveals that my fellow Liberian brothers and sisters are filled with an abundant joy, are deeply loved by the Lord, and are his beloved people. They express an everlasting joy because their happiness is not in the temporary, but their hope is placed in their eternal identity in Christ. In all of my doubts and attempts to search for meaning in my faith, these children have taught me that all the answers have always been in front of me. And I have found a greater peace in knowing the gospel truth here in Liberia knowing that I will never be able to fully comprehend how great and vast God is, but I stand in awe of his constant provision and faithfulness. But through it all, the Lord has empowered us by his grace alone every step of the way.

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There have been more days where we have had to prepare for rain than the sun. Sports managers are always inclined to plan ahead, so by instinct, I consistently watched the rain fall and kept asking two things, “How do we entertain children while it is raining inside? And how do we not let the rain hinder our attitude?” But rain or shine, the Lord had his own plans for us. And as I reflect back on these past three weeks of teaching football, basketball, and volleyball, I cannot help but smile and laugh at all the times I attempted to teach with my own strength because those were the times that I was reminded that obedience could only be accomplished by God himself. In a world that demands instant gratification, there were times where we had hefty expectations that the children would follow directions and pick up the sport we were teaching effortlessly. But these were the times that the Lord whispered his perfect patience over us. Even in the depths of our sin, he shows us compassion and continues to love us perfectly. The Lord exchanged my weariness with his renewed strength. And it is with comfort that I know that Christianity is not a religion based on works, but a relationship of complete dependence as we follow him. Following God has an eternal security beyond anything of this world. And this is where my joy remains constant.

As my time in Liberia comes to an end, it will be bittersweet leaving this village, the constant chatter, and the God-filled children all around me. But I rest assured that I will see my brothers and sisters again, whether it is here on Earth or in heaven. Just as I had to trust that the Lord knew that my second luggage would arrive the day before I was teaching basketball, I continue to trust that I can live confidently with and for the Lord because we have “the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ with us” (Philippians 4:23). As C.S Lewis once wrote, “Joy is the serious business of Heaven.” Praise be to God, for his love endures forever.

“The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” – Exodus 14:14

Anna Cho, Virginia Women's Basketball

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Kenya Update #3 - Tim Pollock

7/10/2016

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Coming into this trip, we were told not to have any expectations of what our three weeks in Kenya would entail. It’s a good thing I didn’t because so far, this trip has exceeded anything I could’ve possibly expected. I have learned so much in such a short amount of time from these kids that it’s almost hard to fathom. The trip started out with some minor travel delays which caused four of the five of us to get into Kenya later than we originally thought. While we were catching up on sleep the first day, I woke up for a minute to the sound of the best rendition of “You Raise Me Up” I’ve ever heard. I didn’t find out till later that it wasn’t a dream, and that our cottage was right next to the choir room. Justin wrote about it in his blog but it was such a great way to start our time here.

These kids have absolutely blown me away with not only their knowledge of God’s Word, but their unwavering love for Christ and even for each other. They may be called orphans, some with completely different background stories, but they love each other like brothers and sisters and it’s incredible to see. I’ve been reading the book Toughness by ESPN analyst Jay Bilas and he talks about what it takes to be tough in sports and in life. While I’ve been reading the book, I’ve been fortunate enough to see a real life example in front of my eyes of how to truly to be tough. I don’t mean they are the physically strongest kids in the world (although some of the older ones might be), but everyone of them has gone through more adversity than I ever have leading them to Rafiki. Each one of them has a beautiful smile on their face and thank God every single day for what He’s done in their life and they grow closer and closer to Him every single day. Overcoming adversity to not only even be living but to be shining examples of Christ-like love is amazing to witness. To me, that’s real toughness. 

It’s hard to narrow down what my favorite thing has been of this trip so far, but one thing that sticks out is the nightly devotions in the cottages. We’ve gotten the opportunity to sit in and participate a few nights a week and it’s the coolest thing in the world. We start off with a hymn or two, (or five with the older boys) and then move into a time of scripture. After reading, every kid says what they learned from the passage and it’s not your typical Sunday School answers, they amaze me with how much they learn from a few verses. I think the thing I might miss the most is hearing these kids sing. They have every single verse of all 100 hymns in their book memorized and none of them are scared or hesitant to sing and sing loud. After the devotion is over, we get some time to connect with the kids and answer any questions they have or just talk and have fun for awhile. That time is where I was able to teach all the kids in one cottage the Iowa State school song in a little over fifteen minutes. 

That brings me to the last thing I’ll talk about. These kids are like sponges and just soak up everything you tell them or teach them about sports. During our short time, it’s been amazing to see the improvement in all the sports we’ve introduced. They strive to get better at whatever we’re going over and are so excited to do it again the next day even if it might not be some of the most exciting drills. Heck, the youngest group of boys loved doing up downs which was probably one of the worst conditioning things I had to do growing up playing football. 

I’m incredibly thankful and grateful to God and Managers On A Mission for giving me the opportunity to come to Kenya to teach these boys and girls a thing or two about sports. It’s hard to put into words what this trip has been. Eye opening and life changing only really seem to scratch the surface. While we’ve been teaching about sports, I think I can speak for my group when I say we’ve learned so much more from these kids about life.

-Tim Pollock, Iowa State Football

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Uganda Update #2 - Kelli Bonner

7/1/2016

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It is hard to believe my team and I have been in Uganda for two weeks.  This week has been my favorite because it’s basketball week!  We have taught the kids various basketball skills including ball handling, shooting, defense, and passing.  It has been a true joy to watch these kids learn and compete every day with smiles on their faces.  Not only have we had the opportunity to teach sports this week but we have also had the opportunity to build relationships with the kids and understand their individual personalities.  It has been such a humbling experience to hear these kids pray to God with such a true and genuine heart.  Before each sports session we have one of the kids pray for the group and they always mention how thankful they are to be learning new sports.  It’s moments like these that make my heart melt because they are so appreciative of the work that we are doing. 

My favorite part of this experience has been getting to know each kid and trying to make a positive impact on their lives.  I have found that although I have been trying so hard to bless these kids they have blessed me the most in return.  Although these kids might not have the most things in terms of materialism they have all the need in Jesus Christ and that is a life lesson that will stick with me forever. I have learned through this experience that sometimes you have to get out of your comfort zone in order to reach a new intimacy level with God and this trip has done just that for my walk with Christ.

I have also learned so many new things about myself and my passions during these two weeks in Uganda.  God is very clear in his word that he calls us to serve others.  In Hebrews 6:10 it reads, “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as ransom for many.”  What a humbling verse.  If God came to this earth to serve others why wouldn’t I?  It is through this experience and coming to Africa that I know I can do more with my life and serving others.  I am so extremely grateful for this opportunity and the chance to spend another week with some of the most amazing people I have ever met in my life. 

-Kelli Bonner, Wingate University

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Liberia Update #2 - Stephen Haggerty

6/30/2016

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It is now week two in rainy Liberia and the kids are still as joyful as ever. Yesterday, we showed the kids a video of the Barcelona versus Real Madrid soccer game. These two teams have the kids two favorite players even though they have never seen them play, only their pictures on posters. The excitement shot their arms into the air as the game started. It was pretty cool to see the joy on their faces and hear the whispers of "Messi" and "Ronaldo" as the players appeared on the screen at times.

The kids have also had the opportunity to roller skate in the afternoon as a way to escape the rain. Although most of the kids struggle to skate, each fall only leads to a smile and quickly getting up to try again. Listening to some of the kids sing in the afternoon has to be one of the best parts of the trip for me. The singing can sometimes end quickly due to laughing at my horrendous dance moves, but it is still a lot of fun.

We have also had the opportunity to have small group talks with the older kids in the village. It has been very encouraging to hear their big dreams, as well as their knowledge of the bible. These talks are to help them become the best leaders they can for the younger kids, prepare them for graduating and leaving the village, and how to best represent God with everything they do. 

This trip has been more rewarding than I could have imagined thus far, and I am looking forward to the experiences ahead of us and the growth we are still to encounter.

-Stephen Haggerty, Indiana University Football

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Kenya Update #2 - Mariah Jackson

6/30/2016

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“Bwana Asifiwe”

We are already a week and a half in, and I can’t even wrap my mind around the fact that we are halfway through this trip. There are so many details I wish I could share, but if I did that I would be typing for days. Each day keeps on getting better. God’s blessings keep over flowing on my life and all of the lives here at the Rafiki Village. I have noticed that we seem to be able to get a lot of things accomplished, but when I look back, the days keep going faster and faster. It really does seem like we got here yesterday. Sure, there are times when I miss my hometown, or when I really would love to have a slice of pepperoni pizza; but those things do not compare to the love and fellowship I get to experience while sharing the word of God with these kids.

The kids here are wonderful. It is so awesome to see how excited they get when they get to pick up a basketball to learn skills that they have never learned before. They never complain about what we ask them to do, they are so talented and I can just see God’s love pouring out of them. The first couple of days after we arrived really gave me time to reflect more on my life. I have realized that I shouldn’t take things and people for granted.

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Most of the older kids love teaching us some of the Swahili language. They think it is hilarious when we can’t pronounce a certain word. I have learned many simple words, but my favorite line, which is also the title, is “Bwana Asifwe” which means Praise the Lord.


The first night, after we arrived I got to attend devotion in the Joppa cottage. Mama Margret led the devotion and told us to turn to Psalm 42:1-11. She explained how God is always with us and He will never leave us or forsake us. My eyes were widened as I saw how excited 6-7 year olds were to find a Bible verse. At this point I realized how much more I needed to grow in the Lord. These kids are motivating me to read the Bible every day.

All along I thought that our MOAM group would be coming just to help these kids and teach them about God and sports. It turns out they are teaching me life lessons and they may not even know it. My heart is overflowing with love, joy, and happiness. I will forever be thankful for these kids. I’m definitely looking forward to all of the adventures that are yet to come here at Rafiki.

-Mariah Jackson, Marshall Women's Basketball

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Liberia Update #1 - Sam Gibson

6/28/2016

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Spirit Lead Me Where My Trust Is Without Borders

Hello Everybody,

We have been in Liberia for a week now, and let me tell you, it has been an adventure! The kids are an absolute light in all of our lives. We started out our trip with some minor set backs with missing luggage, but that did not keep us from loving on these kids as much as we could. Luckily Jason, our fearless leader, had some footballs in his luggage, so we taught American Football this past week. The kids picked up on it really quickly, and had smiles from ear to ear when they played. Now I am a football girl, so being able to share something I love so much with these Liberian kids was extremely special! It allowed me to gain a greater perspective and appreciation for the game I love. 
On Thursday and Friday, Anna and I got to leave the village to go on a search for our luggage.Thursday we went to the airport, which is about a 45 minute drive both ways. The car ride was an enlightening experience in itself. I saw kids on the side of the road without shoes and torn up clothes. You really got an idea of how people outside of the Rafiki Village live. Friday we went into Monrovia, to claim our baggage. The capitol city is run down and trash is everywhere. Even though their living standards are so small, they are so joyful with so little. This really taught me a valuable life lesson to give thanks and praise for what we have. I am excited to see where the next two weeks takes me. I pray the Spirit leads me where my trust is without borders. 

Peace and Blessings,
-Sam Gibson, Purdue University Football 

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Kenya Post #1 - Justin D'Apolito Week 1 Update

6/28/2016

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“You Raise Me Up” by Rafiki Kenya

One week in and where do I even start? Being the first update I wish I could squeeze every detail and situation we’ve seen into this singular blog post but I’ll save you some daylight for that. I arrived last Sunday and due to some travel delays, the rest of the group ended up in Nairobi, Kenya early Tuesday morning. Flying into Kenya and taking that 45-minute drive to the village by myself was an incredible time for self-reflection. To take a step back and realize I’m flying into a new continent, in a new country, in a new place, with new people that I have never really met.

I woke up Monday morning to a group of Rafiki Kenya choir students outside our cottage saying “Justin, Justin come out and play”. No better way to start this experience. Hazy-eyed and groggy after the flight the night before, I walked out and into their choir practice for their competition Wednesday. As I sat there still nervous, hesitant to make a good first impression they began their first song. The popular “You Raise Me Up”. It was absolutely amazing and I can still feel the Goosebumps throughout my body as I think back to this moment.

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Leading up to this trip I thought myself and the other MOAM missionaries were going to be the impact made on others, but I realized right there that it would be the opposite. The joy, gratefulness, and unity that this small choir showed was a small representative of the entire village. They were in unity, disciplined by their teacher Mr. Agoofa, and truly enjoyed the company of each other the entire time. That’s the beautiful thing about this village. Orphans just by title, they represent every meaning of what a family truly is. Their teachers and “mamas” provide them discipline to carry out their chores, projects around the village, and things as simple as table manners. The children are each brothers and sisters, united by one village and people that care about their well-being and future. With gratefulness for each meal and day that they’re given, it runs through you like wildfire. Our MOAM group has had a great time buying in to the Rafiki way and building on these relationships just as another member of their family.

With God presenting this opportunity to us and Rafiki inviting us into their home with open arms, I am truly excited for what is to come over the next couple of weeks here. My only hope is that our impact on them can be half of the gifts that the village and these children have already given to us.

1 Corinthians 13:7 says, “Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things”. That is what these kids do. They love whether it’s their brothers and sisters, or a visitor or “Wageni” as they call it. No matter what, they truly raise each other up. Also, that small choir got 1 st place Wednesday and is another step closer to the national competition. Kwaheri!

-Justin D'Apolito, West Virginia Men's Basketball

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Uganda Update #1 - Madison Stalnaker

6/28/2016

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It has been a great first week here in Uganda! We have gotten to teach volleyball, kickball, ultimate Frisbee, relay races, and play various games with all of the children. The older boys and girls love playing volleyball while the younger children love playing tag and any game that involves running. They have such excitement for learning new sports and skills. They love telling riddles and are constantly asking Seth, Bradley, Kelli, and I if we know of any good ones. Even the simplest riddle will have them rolling with laughter.

One of my favorite experiences at the village so far has been going to nightly devotion. On Tuesday I went to the middle aged girls’ cottage to have devotion with them. After singing praises and reading a story out of Matthew, each of the girls and the mama got on the ground on their knees to lift up prayers of thankfulness to the Lord. This was the most humbling experience I have ever gotten to witness. The prayers of these children are so pure and mighty. The way that they gave praise to our Father and thanked him for all that He is left me in awe. The children are so thankful for everything that they have and the way that they are always praying for others is so selfless.

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This past week at the Rafiki village has impacted me in too many ways to count. It has been such a reminder that we serve a God who goes before us and plans out every detail of our lives. He prepared the way for our MOAM team to come to Uganda, provided safe travels, and has already allowed us to start developing relationships with some of the children. The kids here in Uganda are a true expression of what it means to have joy in even the smallest things. The way that the Lord is allowing us to use our platform as managers to teach sports and proclaim that our faith in Him is the fuel for our life is such an honor. We are truly just a small part in His grand design. I am excited for all of the ways that the Lord is going to continue to mold the hearts of me and my team over these next two weeks!

-Madison Stalnaker, Arkansas State Women's Basketball

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MOAM Selects 10 Future Leaders of Sport for 2016 Missions Trips

4/26/2016

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MINNEAPOLIS, MN. April 26, 2016 - Managers on a Mission (MOAM) is pleased to announce that they have selected future leaders of sport from throughout the United States to participate in their third annual mission trips. This year there will be a total of 10 future leaders of sport traveling on three teams to Kenya, Liberia, and Uganda. 

The groups will depart in June to spend 3 weeks working in partnership with the Rafiki Foundation  to provide educational and living services to vulnerable children and orphans. One of the primary roles of each student missionary throughout their trip is to lead the children in sports activities each day while the children are on 3 week break from school. While each group will not meet together in person until they connect in the airport, they have already started connecting through online meetings to begin preparations for the trip.

It is with great excitement that MOAM announces its 2016 Missions Teams:

Country: Kenya

MOAM Leader: Drew Boe, Director and Founder of MOAM

Future Leaders of Sport:
  • Timothy Pollock (Iowa State University, Student Manager for Football)
  • Justin D’Apolito (West Virginia University, Student Manager for Men’s Basketball)
  • Mallory Retherford (Ohio University, Student Manager for Women’s Basketball)
  • Mariah Jackson (Marshall University, Student Manager for Women’s Basketball)

Country: Liberia

MOAM Leader:  Jason Hubbard, Equipment Director at Mississippi State University and MOAM Board Member

Future Leaders of Sport:
  • Anna Cho (University of Virginia, Student Manager for Women’s Basketball)
  • Samantha Gibson (Purdue University, Student Manager for Football)
  • Stephen Haggerty (Indiana University, Student Manager for Football)

Country: Uganda
MOAM Leader:  Seth Ralston, Director of Operations for Mercer University Women's Basketball

Future Leaders of Sport:
  • Madison Stalnaker (Arkansas State University, Student Manager for Women’s Basketball)
  • Kelli Bonner (Charlotte Checkers, Community Relations Intern)
  • Bradley Baines (Liberty University, Student Manager for Football)

About Rafiki:

The Rafiki Foundations mission is to help Africans know God and raise their standard of living. They have ten Rafiki Training Villages in Africa and provide childcare programs, bible studies, widow programs, and much more. The Villages provide medical, educational, and living services to vulnerable children and orphans as well as train churches.

About Managers On A Mission: (www.managersonamission.org)

Managers On A Mission (MOAM) is 501c3 non-profit committed to developing the future leaders of sport by working with Student Managers, Interns, Graduate Assistants, and other aspiring sports professionals. These individuals are engaged in MOAM’s annual mission trips, service projects, and scholarship programs. MOAM collects new and gently used sports apparel from collegiate and professional teams and coaches throughout the country. The vision of MOAM is to see the world positively impacted by the faith, talent, and resources of the sports industry.

To learn how you or your program could help MOAM please visit MOAM’s How To Help Page, Sponsor Page, or Contact Us.
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A Managers Mission: Will Wade

1/21/2016

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Professional: Will Wade

Current Title: Head Men's Basketball Coach--VCU

Student Manager Experience: Clemson Basketball

Career Notes: 
Current VCU Men's Basketball Head Coach, Will Wade, started his basketball coaching career as an undergraduate student manager in college and has since climbed the ranks to his current position with the Rams. 

It all started when Wade served as a four-year student manager at Clemson from 2002 to 2005, spending his first two seasons under Larry Shyatt and the final two under Oliver Purnell. Wade stayed with the Tigers the next two seasons as well, first as a graduate assistant (2005-06) and then as Director of Basketball Operations (2006-07). 

Teaching/coaching was something that Wade had great interest in and experience in early on as he obtained his bachelor's degree from Clemson in secondary education with concentrations in history and geography. In his final season as a manager, Wade was juggling his manager duties while student teaching. 

Following his many years at Clemson, Wade then shipped up to the Boston-area and joined the coaching staff at Harvard as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator. He spent two seasons (2007-09) coaching in the Ivy League.

After his time in the northeast, Wade became an assistant coach under Shaka Smart at VCU for Wade's first time on the VCU staff. He was there from 2009-2013 including the Rams magical run to the 2011 Final Four. 

Learning from his many previous positions and experiences, Wade became a head coach for the first time in 2013 when he was hired by Chattanooga to be the head coach of the Mocs' Men's Basketball Team. Wade had a successful two seasons at Chattanooga compiling a 40-25 record which is outstanding when compared to Chattanooga's record the two seasons before his arrival which was 24-40. His time in Chattanooga included the honor of Southern Conference Coach of the Year in 2014.

This past spring, the VCU Head Coaching job opened back up and the Rams welcomed back Wade who will begin his first season as head coach of the Rams this November. Coach Wade is a great example and inspiration to current student managers on what can happen when you put in the time and effort beginning as a student manager. After starting out as a student manager with Clemson in 2002, Wade is now the head coach of one of the premier and most recognized men's basketball programs in the country. 

Coach Wade was kind enough to answer a few questions for Managers On A Mission:

What was your inspiration in becoming a student manager?
I always loved being around the game of basketball. When it became obvious I would not be able to play at a high level, becoming a manager was a great option. I love serving / helping others and there is not a more selfless position than being a student manager. I had a great time at Clemson as a manager as it really shaped my college experience as well as my post college life.

What is your favorite memory from your time as a manager?
I enjoyed all the time spent with the players and the coaching staff; those were great memories as we were working hard together and all trying to reach a common goal. On the court, starting the season 18-0 at Clemson was an awesome experience and one that I will never forget. The students and fans at Clemson were all excited about basketball which was a fun to experience.

What have you learned to be the key in pursuing a career in sports?
Relationships...all of my jobs have come from previously developed relationships. Never miss a chance to meet a new person or follow up with someone who you meet. You never know who can help you down the road, so make sure you treat everyone with respect.

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A Managers Mission: T.J. Saint

10/15/2015

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Professional: T.J. Saint

Current Title: Video Coordinator--Detroit Pistons

​Student Manager Experience: Belmont Basketball

Career Notes:
What started out as an obsession with the game back in his driveway, as it does with most kids, T.J. Saint knew what it would take to work professionally in the sport he loves, basketball.

A native of Indianapolis, Saint headed south out of high school to attend Mercer University and play on the basketball team as a walk-on. After playing for the Bears for two seasons, from 2006-2008, Saint decided to move on and transfer to Belmont University.

After he arrived on Belmont’s campus in Nashville, TN, Saint was given the option to stay as a walk-on or become a student manager. Knowing he wanted to get into coaching and having already been a walk-on for two seasons, Saint decided to be a part of the Belmont Basketball Team as a manager. Saint served under head coach Rick Byrd from 2009-2011 in more of a coaching staff role versus typical manager role. Saint graduated from Belmont with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing in 2011.

​Saint headed back to Indianapolis after graduation to serve as an unpaid graduate assistant under Brad Stevens at Butler University. Following the 2011-2012 season in that capacity, Saint was elevated to full-time graduate assistant for the 2012-2013 season. Saint stayed with the Bulldogs for the 2013-2014 season as the Director of Basketball Operations under Coach Brandon Miller following Stevens’ departure to the Boston Celtics

Saint contributed to the staff of two teams that advanced to the NCAA Tournament (Belmont in 2011, Butler in 2013).

Saint completed three seasons with Butler and then got the opportunity to move on to work in the NBA which has been his dream. Saint is now in his second season as Video Coordinator for the Detroit Pistons. In this position, Saint is responsible for prepping the head coach, Stan Van Gundy, with every scout, creating edits for assistant coaches to show to players, creating edits for players and assisting and running some workouts.

For the past four years, Saint has been involved with Rising Coaches Elite. He had the privilege of speaking at its 2015 conference this past summer. Saint is a great example of another hardworking manager. He answered a few questions for us below:

​
Who have been the key influences in your career to help you achieve your goals?

​
Larry Angle (high school coach), Rick Byrd (Belmont Head Coach) and Casey Alexander (current Lipscomb Head Coach and former Belmont Assistant Coach).

How did being a student manager help you get you to where you are today?

It gave me empathy for those who coach and work behind the scenes. 

What is your favorite memory from your time as a student manager?

The NCAA Tournament appearances. 

​To God Be The Glory!

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MOAM Interview Series Ken Crain - Ole Miss Equipment

9/3/2015

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Ken Crain (@kencrain)
Equipment Manager
Ole Miss Football (@olemissfbequip)

Ken Crain is the Equipment Manager for the Ole Miss Rebels Football team. Ken has been at Ole Miss for 22 years, 3 as a Student Manager and 19 full time. Ken has been married to his wife Allison for 13 years and they have 2 daughters, Sabrina (16) and Kennedy (7).


What attracted you to becoming an Equipment Manager?
"I have been around football since I was 5 years old when my step father coached. I knew I couldn't play football so it was a good way to be around the sport. Also, I got a scholarship my second year into the program."

What are some benefits to being a Student Manager?
"Being on the sideline for games, the people you meet as a student, being involved in the sport scholarship money toward tuition. Some of the students have worked for me have been around Eli Manning and Patrick Willis. Also, several have gone on to work in the NFL."

What are some of the hurdles for you as you live out your faith in the equipment room/athletics?
"Missing out on some family events or missing out on some events my kids are involved in."

How has the Lord helped you throughout your career?
"I have been in the same place for many years. He has given me strength to embrace all the change involved in athletics. I probably worry too much about things and He helps me to relax."

How important is it for us, as believers, to live out our faith in the sports industry?
"Very important. Sports changes people's lives and we set examples for people to follow. It is very rewarding when someone who worked for you comes back and thanks you for helping/believing in them. It is amazing the people who follow sports and what they follow, I have stood on a street corner in Chicago and someone says "don't you work for the Ole Miss Rebels?" We have big stage/platform and should promote our beliefs."

What advice do you have for Student Managers who want to work in this industry?
"Asking questions and learning the industry. Try to work some NFL camps in the summer or work in the equipment room in the summer. Be the first to get there and last to leave. Volunteer anytime someone needs something done."

"Don't embrace your weakness so much that you stop trying."


To God Be The Glory!

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MOAM Teams Return from Africa

8/5/2015

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All 3 teams of student manager missionaries return home from life changing mission trips to Africa. 

Minneapolis, MN. August 5, 2015 – 

Student Managers working with collegiate athletic programs throughout the country have returned home after spending 3 weeks serving at orphanages in Uganda, Zambia, and Ghana. Each individual has been recognized by MOAM as a future leader of sport, and was awarded the opportunity to join MOAM for the fully funded mission trip. 

MOAMs team of mini missionaries provided support to 3  Rafiki Foundation orphanages during their 3 week ‘holiday’ from classes. This break often leaves Rafiki’s orphanages very short-staffed with as little as 2-3 full time missionaries left to direct the orphanages of approximately 100 children ranging from ages 3-18 years old. MOAM was blessed with this opportunity to help fill this void through providing 3 weeks of sports camps, and other support as needed at each village.

Highlights of the trips for the student managers included the opportunity to provide 1 on 1 mentoring/goal setting sessions with each of the older children in Uganda, building a new driveway in Zambia, and joining each cottage of children for nightly devotions in Ghana. Thanks to donations from professional and collegiate sports programs throughout the US, MOAM was also able to leave the villages with over 800 pounds in donations of sports apparel and equipment.

Despite the great support MOAM’s teams were able to provide each orphanage, it remained very clear that MOAM’s missionaries could never give more than they received from the children and overall mission trip experience.

Each student manager has shared their new perspective through several blog posts. An excerpt from each individual can be found below.

“This trip exceeded my expectations. I knew playing sports with the kids would be fun. But the fellowship with the other managers and the time we spent in the Bible in such a unique place was incredible.”
- Ben Wright

“Being over in Zambia was, and always will be one of the most incredible opportunities in my life.” 
– Shane Maloney

“These children, instead of being left to die of preventable diseases or starvation, were given life. And I, who at first appears to have nothing in common with these children, (healthy, living in the United States with parents who love and care about me) was given life too. I was hand-picked to go to Uganda. And I was shown true life. I was shown a life characterized by servant hood. A life filled with selflessness and love and joy. A life worthy of Jesus’s sacrifice.” 
– Katie Wilkins

“I had a boy share the story of how he came to Rafiki with me. He came to Rafiki with many cuts on his head as his parents had been trying to kill him. He then shared about how he had come to Christ and even forgiven his parents. His whole story just left me completely speechless.” 
– Scott Goode

“The Rafiki children’s faith is so strong and they’re prayers are so thoughtful and kind that I was in awe every single night of their faith in God.“ 

– Brittany Arlington

“Looking at what God has done with MOAM and the individuals involved, and will continue to do is amazing and without question deserves praise to God.” 

– Ryan Francis

“I 100% want to work in sports administration and this trip gave me a first-hand opportunity to combine sports and service, which is now an area I will pursue more aggressively when on the job hunt!” 
– Joseph Kuykendall

About Managers On A Mission (MOAM):

MOAM is a non-profit that collects new and gently used sports apparel from coaches and teams on both college and professional levels around the country. MOAM develops the future leaders of sport through mission trips, service projects, and scholarships with a Christ centered focus on maximizing the platform afforded to the sports industry. The vision of MOAM is to see the world positively impacted by the faith, talent, and resources of the sports industry.

To learn how you or your program could help MOAM please visit MOAM’s How To Help Page, Sponsor Page, or Contact Us.

About Rafiki:

The Rafiki Foundations mission is to help Africans know God and raise their standard of living. Rafiki’s 10 Training Villages in Africa provide childcare programs, bible studies, widow programs, and much more. Each village provides medical, educational, and living services to vulnerable children and orphans as well as train churches in their community.

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Uganda Mission Trip Recap - Ryan Francis

7/30/2015

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People keep asking, “How was Uganda?” and I am never sure what to say. It is hard to summarize such a powerful and impactful three weeks into a sufficient answer. I keep replying with “Good” and if I’m feeling really adventurous I’ll respond with, “Good, it was a great experience.” And that’s true. The trip was good. And the trip was an incredible experience. I’m just not sure how to use words adequately enough to describe what we experienced in Uganda. It was beyond description. I can describe what I did, but I’ve yet to find the words and phrases to explain what I felt. But for now I’ll simply write out three major things that I learned or was reminded of while on the trip.

Joy and sports are universal

Never will I forget the literal squeals of joy from a child simply dribbling a basketball. Joy is part of the human experience. As is sports. No matter the language, culture, or religion of people, sport is something that can bring people together. The first day there was hard because they didn’t know us and we didn’t know them, but through sports we bonded and created friendships that I’m sure we will never forget. 

Everyone deserves a chance to play

As we figured out the schedule, there was a considerable amount of time we had to fill. Someone brought up the fact that the children would just want to scrimmage, and I said something like “If they want to play, why we don’t just let them play?” Then our leader Drew raised a point that struck me profoundly. The reality is that these children rarely have the opportunity to learn the game. Often, they don’t even have the basics down for some games, and that since we were there, we should teach them what we knew. This way, ultimately, they were able to enjoy the game even more. Sport has such a cool role in society everywhere. And everyone regardless of their situation deserves a chance to truly play. To learn and improve so that they may enjoy playing even more.


God is God and Ministry is Ministry

No matter where you are, you’re called to serve. For our team, we were called to serve in Uganda for three weeks. But even though we were called to serve in a different continent, we still served the same God. Even after a full day of traveling we were still under the same God. God is big and His love is big for us. But furthermore, His call for our lives is big. Regardless where I find myself, I’m called to serve. As I return to my dirty, stinky laundry, I am called to serve. As I sit on long bus rides and find myself awake at unruly hours preparing for a game the next day, I’m called to serve. It doesn’t take a couple plane rides to be called to serve but rather a willing heart. You never know where He will lead you, whether it be Africa or elsewhere, but God is God. And to God be the glory. 

One night at devotions we read Psalm 48, and verse 10 stood out to me. It reads, “As your name, O God, so your praise reaches to the ends of the earth.” So your praise reaches to the end of the earth. That’s true. Hard to fathom, but true. Whether it be Africa or here in North America, the same God, our creator is worshiped and praised for all He has done and will do. Looking at what He has done with MOAM and the individuals involved, and will continue to do is amazing and without question deserves praise to God. Only He could plan this small adventure we experienced in Uganda within His grand plan.


-Ryan Francis, Student Manager, Liberty University

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To God Be The Glory!
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Zambia Update #5 - Shane Maloney

7/10/2015

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    For the past few days we’ve been working on clearing and smoothing out dirt for a driveway in the village.  We have the six oldest boys helping us make progress during our free time, and it is a wonderful opportunity speaking to them about life.  Jason, Ben and I have been sharing experiences of our lives to them and trying our best to pull out the classic father teaching moments.  Whether its relating why in the world moving dirt two inches is important to integrity or why their education is so meaningful, it’s funny how I can put myself in their shoes.  Thinking back to all those moments when my dad had me out back pulling weeds or doing yard work and always complaining in my mind but never out loud.  Really is odd how that changes with age!  Thinking back, I really did cherish all those moments I had spending time with my dad.  I started thinking the other day; these kids here simply wont have any memories of such.  All the times I played catch or went fishing or anything like it, absolutely none of the kids here have that.  I know that it is all over the world and even at home but it has never hit me like it does here.  Maybe it is because of the numbers or simply because there is nothing for them to cover up anything with here.  Back home there is always something to be occupied with or engulfed in, here they just have each other.  Some may think I am crazy to say that my fondest memory of spending three weeks in Africa will be swinging an axe—but to have the opportunity to allow these boys to have a memory of me like I do of my father is priceless. 

    As time nears its end here for our trip, we are already beginning to reminisce.  For our last day here--tomorrow—we have planned a field day event!  It immediately takes me back to elementary school.  Field days always marked the last days of school, a goodbye to that grade level.  For us here in Zambia, our field day will mark our farewell to the children and workers we have fellowshipped with for the past three weeks.  Leaving this village will be bittersweet.  We will finally be able to freely go out and grab something quick to eat or not have to worry about the power being cut off randomly.  However, we are leaving with the impression for what the Rafiki organization is all about.  Rafiki is a Swahili word for friend—that is just what we are leaving behind.  These children are no longer strangers to me; they are no longer orphans to me or anything else other than friends.  That is how it will always be.

-Shane D. Maloney, Kansas State University


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To God Be The Glory!
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Uganda Update #5 - Drew Boe

7/9/2015

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The Beauty of Perspective

    Did you know even the poorest of individuals today still have more than most 'high class' individuals had just a few centuries ago, in terms of physical possessions (i.e. car, tv, computer, size of house, etc.)?

    This means today we must all consider ourselves very fortunate and blessed, right? Unfortunately that is not quite how our perspective seems to naturally operate.

    In my last Sunday at Grace church before flying to Africa, Pastor Daniel Henderson defined discouragement as a "temporary loss of perspective." These words hit me hard on that Sunday, and have hit me even harder since arriving in Uganda.

    In worldly terms, the children of Rafiki have great reason to be discouraged. Many of them have been abandoned and born into the worst circumstances imaginable. These children are orphans who have come from some of the most tragic situations we can imagine, and face some of the grimmest realities we can fathom in terms of life expectancy, educational opportunities, etc. However, I can say with 100% certainty, that they are truly the most joyful and content individuals I have ever been around.

    So how is it they can not only forgive, and move past the tragic situation they were born into, but also rejoice and exemplify joy in it's purest form? They've conquered their spirit. These children have come to know Christ, and fully embraced the fruit of the Spirit God has promised to all believers. Their joy is not based on external, temporary items like getting a new toy, recognition, food, or money. It comes from their internal and ETERNAL identity in Christ.

    The book of Genesis tells us God gave man dominion over the whole wide earth. Dale Carnegie points out this includes dominion over everything. Over my self. Over my thoughts. Over my fears. Over my mind. Over my spirit. Proverbs 16:32 adds that "He who conquers his spirit is mightier than he who taketh a city." What a powerful opportunity we have to control our very own perspective.

    My perspective is vastly different than the children here at Rafiki because of what I have been exposed to with the fortune of growing up in a great family in a first-world country. I understand there are infinite blessings to this, but unfortunately, this perspective all too often tricks me into believing my joy and my spirit is controlled by external idols- such as making money, having a lot of friends, or even the success or stability of Managers On A Mission.

    Fellow mini missionary, Katie Wilkins, already shared this in an earlier blog post, but it captures my thoughts and heart all too well not to share it again. It is from Katie Davis, a 22 year old woman who has moved to a village here in Uganda and adopted more than 20 kids.

    "I've had people ask me why I think Africa is so impoverished, but these children are not poor. I, as a person who grew up wealthy, am. I put value in things. These children having no things, put value in God. I put my trust in relationships, these children having already seen relationships fail, put their trust in the Lord. This nation is blessed beyond any place, any people I have ever encountered. God has not forgotten them. In fact, I believe He has loved them just a little bit extra."

    Lord Jesus thank You for the work You are doing through the Rafiki Foundation. Help us all to fill the God-sized hole in our hearts with You alone.

-Drew Boe, Founder, Managers On A Mission


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To God Be The Glory!
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Zambia Update #4 - Ben Wright

7/8/2015

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    Driving down the bumpy dirt road through an unforgivingly impoverished compound of Zambia’s capital city, Lusaka, will put a scare into any traveler. It really frightened me to know that areas like this were places that these kids came from. Knowing that the kids came from such poverty and are now at a village with plenty of food, water and clothing, one might say the kids are saved. These necessities for surviving do not compare to the greatest gift they have received since coming to the Rafiki village, an eternal life with God.

    These kids have had almost no oversight during games and sports previous to our arrival. The limited staff here is always busy serving the kids around the village in other ways and not able to lead the kids during playtime. It can be frustrating for us when the kids are not following instructions, being a poor sport, or playing too aggressively. We’ve often asked God to keep our hearts patient. God has given us many opportunities to provide correction in their attitudes and actions. Simple solutions like shaking hands before and after games goes a long way in teaching them to respect others.

    This week the MOAM team along with the six oldest boys have been working on building a circle driveway in the village. While working, we talk to the boys about what it means to work hard, provide for a family, and be a leader in the community. Although the boys may complain about working hard while the other kids play, I was happy to learn this has been one of their favorite experiences. When I told them that we might be selecting a different six boys to help us the next day, they begged me to let them continue to work. I know God has used us in a powerful way to show the kids, especially the older boys, what it means to be a Christian adult living for God. I pray that the experiences we’ve had and the lessons we’ve taught them will stick with the kids forever. In a similar way the kids look up to us, Shane and I look up to Jason. Through our nightly bible studies where we dive deep into each other’s lives, God has used Jason to work with us in a special way. I pray that the time we’ve had together will continue to shape us long after our trip concludes.

 “The righteous will live by faith.” –Romans 1:17

-Ben Wright
, University of Michigan


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To God Be The Glory!
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Uganda Update #4 - Mac Goode

7/7/2015

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    We are finishing our 2nd week in Uganda, and are having a great trip so far.  We have one more week left so pray that we finish well.  It will definitely be a sad thing to leave the village and the kids.  

    The kids here are amazing because they have such joy in daily life and in the Lord.  They take nothing for granted and have such a mature perspective on life.  I think I have heard the phrase, “Thank you God for the Gift of Life,”  more in the last two weeks than I have in the rest of my life combined.  The kids have such a real conviction that each day we are alive is a gift from the Lord.  They do not take material things for granted either.  When you eat dinner with them, they finish their food quickly, and do not leave so much as a crumb on their plate.  For example, if rice is part of the dinner, every single piece of rice will be gone from their plate.  We have had the opportunity to sit in on various cottages’ nightly devotionals, and it is a true blessing to be able to hear the kids talk about the things of God.  Their prayers sound like the prayers of pastors or theologians.  These children have an incredible knowledge of the Bible.  

    The children are also incredibly tough.  When we are playing sports with them, they do not cry when they fall down or are hit by a ball like almost every other young kid I know would do.   They just get right back up and start playing again.  I have to think this comes from the fact that so many of these children have experienced so much real emotional and physical pain in their lives.  I wish I know more of these children’s backstories, but the ones I do know are amazing.  One brother-sister duo that lives in the village came to the government’s protection after the brother when he was four years old carried his then two year old sister many miles to the hospital when she was sick.  A pair of twin brothers that live in the village survived a mud slide that destroyed their village and killed both of their parents.  It is so awesome to see what Rafiki (the orphanage) has done in these children’s life.  They are getting an excellent education and are developing wonderful relationships with Jesus.  The kids are so grateful and joyful because of this.   I have much to learn from these children when it comes to having joy in the Lord.

    I hope in this final week we are able to make a lasting impact on these kids’ lives through encouraging them in their faith and their schoolwork.  Keep us in your prayers that we will have a healthy, safe, and impactful last week here.  

-Mac Goode, Texas A&M University football

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Ghana Update #2 - Joseph Kuykendall

7/6/2015

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    Week two has been another great one for Team Ghana. We got into the sports camp portion of our ministry this week by putting on a two-day basketball camp, two-day volleyball camp and a final day knockout tournament. As a college basketball manager and a high school volleyball player I thoroughly enjoyed teaching the Rafiki children about two awesome sports that have been a huge part of my life. It was great to see all the kids' positive attitudes and willingness to learn throughout the week. As part of the camp, each morning we went through a short devotion covering topics such as prayer before competition, hard work, attitude, teamwork and losing with dignity---all from a biblical perspective. The devotion portion of the camp impressed us all because of how knowledgable the kids already were on the various bible stories and lessons. They taught me a thing or two because they were so specific with their explanations!

    Another very neat part of the week was getting to travel outside of the village with some of the kids (and young adults) of Rafiki to see them play a neighboring village in a soccer match. It was a long afternoon because it was an old-fashioned doubleheader with the younger kids playing first followed by a match between the high school-aged kids. It was a wonderful cultural experience to see the kids elegantly play the sport they all adore. It was also impressive to see how the conditions did not bother the kids one bit, they were just thrilled to glorify God through the game of soccer. First off, the field was all dirt with many divots and holes and secondly, it was not abnormal for a wild goat or chicken to scurry across the field while the match was going on. The younger Rafiki kids were missing some of their more experienced players so they lost to the team from the opposing village but the older Rafki kids won a great match 4-1--they claim they have yet to lose a match in two years. Soccer is these kids life so win and lose, everybody was all smiles afterwards because they spent an afternoon doing what they love. Also of note is that Brittany and I got to showcase our managerial skills by handing out water to the Rafiki team at halftime and after the game! How cool is that for a Managers on a Mission trip?! 

    On Saturday, our team had the privilege of journeying outside the village towards the coast and touring the Elmina Slave Castle in Cape Coast, Ghana. To hear of and visit the various areas of the castle and learn of the treatment of the Ghanaians many years ago during the slave trade was both sobering and disheartening. One of the toughest and most confusing parts of the visit was visiting the church inside the castle where the workers (this specific castle was controlled by the Dutch and Portuguese) worshipped our Lord and Savior while many men and women were held captive just a few floors below and the workers thought their actions to be just. "How could they believe in the same God we do but do such heinous acts?" was running through my head and I am sure the head of many others. While processing all of this, I used the inspiration of the Rafiki children singing beautiful hymnals every day and kept thinking of the hymn, "They'll Know We are Christians by Our Love". With this hymn and its poetic prose in mind, I, as anyone could, began to realize that loving others as Christ loved us is the one of the most important ways to live and profess our faith as Christians. This is also specifically relevant to Team Ghana because as a MOAM group, we have been going through the book of Philippians on this trip as our bible study. Philippians 2:5 reiterates this very point, "Make your own attitude that of Jesus Christ." The castle workers did not do this but we can learn from the past and do what the bible says in Philippians 2:5 on this MOAM trip and for the rest of our lives.
Relating this to what we have done and yet to do with Rafiki, the most important and valuable thing is to simply love the children and missionaries of Rafiki the same unconditional and endless ways God loves us. As orphans, love is something the children seek and yearn for everyday. They will not know we are Christians JUST by the amount of basketballs we leave, clothes we give or times we play with them but rather by doing all the aforementioned things WITH a Christ-like love. It is one of the simplest things we as Christians are charged to do but one that I and others struggle to do. We get caught up and distracted by so many other things that we forget to love one another or at least love one another the way our Father ALWAYS loves us.

-Joseph Kuykendall, James Madison University


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Zambia Update #3 - Jason Hubbard

7/3/2015

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Yesu andikonda ine (Jesus loves me! This I know)

Yesu andikonda ine,
(Jesus loves me! This I know,)
Amatero M’Buku lye, 
(For the Bible tells me so;)                                                                                                                      
Akafoka mwana wake;      
(Little ones to Him belong;)                                   
Adzamlimbikitsa Mbuye.
(They are weak, but He is strong.)

    Those are the words for Jesus loves me! in Bemba, one of the many Zambian languages spoken. I had the privilege to hear 4 year old Immanuel sing this song to me. He sang the first verse in English. As the second verse started others started singing along. Next thing I knew they were singing one of the verses in their Zambian language. I began to tear up as they were singing. The songs you here from these kids and mothers are beautiful. They can move mountains with the beauty of their voices. When we went to church they were the choir. I closed my eyes as they sang “More About Jesus Would I Know”. As tears ran down my face I thought I was hearing the voices of angels. You can hear the love for Jesus as they sing. I am not sure that I have ever experienced Jesus’ glory like I do when I hear these children sing. Every day that I am here I am reminded of Matthew 19:14 when Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” I know the love that Jesus has for children is real as I got to experience a piece of it this past Sunday.

    I also got to experience an amazing sight tonight. We brought the donations that so many people from across the country has been gracious enough to donate. It was an amazing thing to see. As we begin passing the caps, shirts and jackets out, we got to see the joy of the kids to get something from somebody from across the world who has no clue of who they are but still cares enough about them to send the stuff. To know that they are loved even outside of the village, I could not help but think how such a small gesture could go so long for these kids morale.

    Another blessing has been Shane Maloney and Ben Wright. They are the other mini missionaries who came with MOAM. Shane is from Kansas State and Ben from The University of Michigan. These two young men have been a blessing from God. To see their hearts for these kids and to serve our Father unconditionally has been a breath of fresh air. They have a heart that is bigger than even the country we are serving in. I know that they have been blessed by God to receive such a beautiful heart. I have been blessed to get to see their hearts for the past 2 weeks and have gotten to grow in my own walk with God because of these two gentlemen. I pray the Lord will continue to teach and mold us as we finish the next week of serving. 

-Jason Hubbard – MOAM/Mississippi State University



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Uganda Update - #3

7/3/2015

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Taste and See

Taste and see that the LORD is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him. – Psalm 34:8 

For the last few days I’ve been reflecting on the goodness of the Lord. And on that verse. It’s a verse that keeps popping up, in my quiet times and as I read through God’s Word it’s so apparent that goodness is in His character, it’s His very nature. I’ve been meditating on the words ‘taste and see’. Taste and see. What does it mean to truly taste and see the full goodness of God?

One of the hardest things since I’ve been in Uganda has been missing American food. And really it’s not even junk food. It’s like…pickles and string cheese. I miss that stuff. And on Monday when I was FaceTiming with my mom and sister, my sister almost ate a complete jar of pickles during the call. (Is an affinity for pickles genetic?) And I could almost taste them. My mouth was watering thinking about the first pickle I’ll get to eat when i get back in the states. (I know! Isn’t it weird what you crave when you can’t have it?) And I started wondering: Do you think that’s what David means in this psalm? He’s saying, “I have seen the goodness of the Lord – better yet, I have tasted it. I’ve had this mouth-watering, unrelenting, insatiable hunger to see the goodness of the Lord and it was finally fulfilled.” And now I’ve tasted and seen. And after David had tasted and seen there was no going back.

Once you’ve tasted and seen the Lord’s goodness nothing else can even compare. A perfect God that would chose to be gracious and merciful and patient and loving to me? Me, who continually would rather chase after other things. What an unfathomable love. But once you’ve seen it – that goodness, nothing else could possibly satisfy you.

I’ve seen that goodness here in Uganda. And these children have seen the goodness of the Lord in their lives too. These children who have 3 pairs of pants and 4 shirts know the goodness of God better than anyone I’ve ever met. It spills out in their prayers, and their laughs and squeals of joy, and it pours into me. Spending time with these children has changed me. Because, these kids, they’re smarter than I am. They realized this message that, at age 21, the Lord is still beating into my brain. He’s good. He’s so good. So much better than anything else I could ever dream of.

I hope this week you get to taste and see that the Lord is good. Because when you taste it, you realize – man, this isn’t something I ever want to do without.

So by now, I’m guessing you’re almost dying to see these children I’ve been going on and on about. Although I’ve been trying to really savor my time here and live in the moment, I’ve gotten a chance to take a few pictures. And I’m finally ready to share some of these wonderful kids in the village with you all. So here are some of the beautiful, joyful children you’ve gotten to hear so much about. My prayer this week is that the Lord would transform my heart to be more like these children. Because Jesus loved children.

“And children loved Jesus. Children knew they didn’t need to do anything special for Jesus to love them. All they needed to do was to run into his arms. And so that’s just what they did.” – Jesus Storybook Bible


-Katie Wilkins, University of Nebraska

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Zambia Update #2 - Shane Maloney

6/30/2015

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Shining Through the Clouds

    Growing up in small-town Kansas you count your blessings often.  Embarking on the cross-Atlantic trip to Zambia I have seemed to quickly fall back into my old roots.  There truly is no overstating it—we are extremely blessed in the States. Driving through the crowded streets of the capital Lusaka will keep any New Jersey driver on their toes.  From the uncountable number of cars, pedestrians and to the city workers cutting grass with machetes, it was a sight to behold.  As we made our distance from the city I quickly began missing the wheat fields of home.  Cramped in a small SUV with bags packed to the ceiling full of donations we continued onward towards the village.  After weaving through a clay road we arrived at the gate of the Zambian Rafiki village.  At that moment any thought of home passed and as the gate slowly creaked open I saw a new page in my life opening.

    After eight days of staying in Zambia we accomplished our first goal of being able to manage seventy-seven children.  The love and interest in anything new is truly inspiring.  Never before have I seen anybody enjoy basic basketball drills to level of these kids. They had humongous smiles dribbling from the baseline to the free throw line while cheering for one another amongst their peers.  Just imagine the smiles and fun when I finally brought all the fundamentals into use and introduced knockout.  Never before have I seen Children enjoy a game to the level of them.

    The strength of the mommas here in the village is incredible.  It constantly reminds me of my own grandmother who would care for me to the end of the Earth.  For these mommas it is a job, it is their occupation to nurture their cottage of ten or so children.  As my grandmother says- I raised my own, to them let it be.  These makeshift mommas cannot do that.  They all have families outside here and then to spend their workweek nursing to orphaned young children is something that has struck home with me. These women are stern, enduring, soft-spoken yet they carry a big stick.  I only pray to one day have some of the same attributes these amazing women have in raising up future leaders and children of God.

    Moreover, I believe I already have found the almighty takeaway from this experience—the power of a smile.  A smile is the universal sign of peace, love and comfort.  The first day we came we met a ten year-old boy literally named Happy.  However Happy really was not happy—talk about irony at its finest.  Today we introduced American football and how to properly throw.  Initially teaching how to catch and then to throw.  Happy was a pure natural throwing the ball, solid form and even a tight spiral.  We had him step out in front of his peers and show just how well he was doing.  At that moment Happy was—happy.  He had a smile from cheek to cheek and practically skipped back in line after he threw the ball.  I was astonished witnessing the joy of Happy and the smile on his face all thanks to the wonderful game of American football.  After spending all week with him and never seeing him enjoy his surroundings and for something so simple to almost flip his emotions completely is special.  

    God’s love is evident in all parts of the World.  It is evident in all walks of life—no matter your color, wealth or Earthly possessions.  It is an immeasurable love that I will be forever thankful and gracious for.

Shane D. Maloney, Kansas State University

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Uganda Update #2 - Katie Wilkins

6/29/2015

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Love Does

Love does crazy things. Love jumps on planes to Uganda and sleeps under mosquito nets and rides hours in a hot van.

Because love is never stationary.

I’ve now been in Uganda for almost a week. And I love everything about this country. I love the people and the terrain, and the red dirt, and the sunrises and sunsets that will take your breath away. I love how cool it gets after it rains and I love the old basketball court – tattered nets and all.

Before I got here I was trying to imagine all that it would be. I tried to imagine the children and what my days would look like here….but nothing prepared me for this. Because it’s better than I could have ever imagined. The children are beautiful and joyous and funny and so intelligent. Most of them speak at least 2 languages proficiently by age 5. Their native tribal language (mostly Lugandan) and English. They are in love with their lives and content and joyous with what they have. When they pray they never cease to amaze me. Yesterday in a group of 14-19 year old girls, one girl prayed that they “wouldn’t take advantage of the opportunities they’d been presented” and that “the Lord would bless the missionaries [i.e….us] richly”. This opportunity she’s praising God for is four, 20-somethings coming to her village to teach the basics of sports. (And let me tell you….we are in wayyyy over our heads with football [soccer in the states]). But they are so grateful. And their hearts are constantly filled with praises of thanksgiving to the Lord for His goodness. And I’m blown away that God would chose me to be here. And I feel so inadequate.

Today I was reading a passage from Kisses from Katie…the magnificent story of a high schooler who felt The Lord’s call on her life to go to Uganda and who now, at age 22, has moved to Masese (a village not far from my own) and adopted more than 20 Ugandan girls. Read more about Katie Davis on her blog here.

  • “I’ve had people ask me why I think Africa is so impoverished, but these children are not poor. I, as a person who grew up wealthy, am. I put value in things. These children, having no things, put value in God. I put my trust in relationships, these children, having already seen relationships fail, put their trust in the Lord. This nation is blessed beyond any place, any people I have ever encountered. God has not forgotten them. In fact, I believe He has loved them just a little bit extra.”

My heart and soul long for the way these children know God. Not just Creator of the universe, but their own personal Creator. And I thought all along I was loving them the way God loves them….but maybe, it’s the other way around. Maybe, instead, they’re loving me the way God so deeply loves and cares for me. I hope you all have someone in your life like that. Someone who loves like Jesus. Because that changes everything.


-Katie Wilkins, University of Nebraska

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