Please prayerfully consider your participation in the next team. And if you have any questions, please email me at:
loomisrl@windstream.net, or facebook.
If YOU are asking the question, then no doubt others have the same question. I'll include the answer on this blog.
Remember...just scroll down the right side and click on any question or topic that interests you. Most everything you need to know about the 2011 trip is included.
Working with Missionaries Mike and Marigold Cheshier, I travel to Kenya twice a year and take folks with me. Kenya has captured my heart. Taking God's Word to the precious people excites me! This blog contains information for those who are considering a trip to Kenya with me. It also contains news from the Cheshier's ministry. So check back often! Scroll down the the right side to check out the different points of interest.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Sample Support Letter--Use these ideas if you'd like...
Dear….
I hope this letter finds you well. As for me, I’m excited beyond words! You see, I have been given an opportunity of a lifetime—to travel to Kenya, Africa and share the Word of God with the people of remote Masai villages, and also some of the poorest of Nairobi’s slum dwellers. It’s quite a challenge, but I sense an urgency in my heart to walk through this open door that’s right in front of me.
Our team will travel during June 21 through July 5, 2011, and will work alongside Missionaries Mike and Marigold Cheshier of Firewind Ministries. We will tent camp in the Masai Mara (perhaps you’ve seen this area on the Discover Channel or Animal Planet?), and will present the Gospel of salvation and hope to people who have NEVER before heard the message!
It’s obvious that there are many hungry, hurting people here in America, and I am constantly looking for ways to share the Gospel with them. But in America, access to the Bible is everywhere—TV, radio, churches, etc. Searching, spiritually-hungry people can find help. And I want to help them. That is my first priority.
However, it’s exciting to think that I can be used to share this amazing message of love and grace with people who have never heard…not even once.
I’m writing to you for a number of reasons:
1. Will you pray for the people to whom we are being sent? Will you ask God to prepare them to hear the invitation for eternal life?
2. Will you pray for me, that God will protect and equip me in this divine assignment?
3. The cost of this trip is $3,500, which includes my airfare, accommodations and food. Will you pray that God will supply this need?
If you would like to join me on this “African Adventure,” let me know and I’ll share more information. Or, if you’d like to contribute a donation toward the cost, I would be extremely grateful. Any amount—large or small—is needed and appreciated. Since the funds go to missions, they are tax deductable.
Should you decide to give to this cause, please make your check payable to Firewind Ministries, and put my name on the memo line. Mail it to my team leader at this address: Lori Loomis, 135 Alexander Drive, Elyria, OH 44035.
Please do not feel obligated in any way. I simply wanted to share my excitement with you. Most importantly, I ask for your prayers. And I appreciate your love.
I hope this letter finds you well. As for me, I’m excited beyond words! You see, I have been given an opportunity of a lifetime—to travel to Kenya, Africa and share the Word of God with the people of remote Masai villages, and also some of the poorest of Nairobi’s slum dwellers. It’s quite a challenge, but I sense an urgency in my heart to walk through this open door that’s right in front of me.
Our team will travel during June 21 through July 5, 2011, and will work alongside Missionaries Mike and Marigold Cheshier of Firewind Ministries. We will tent camp in the Masai Mara (perhaps you’ve seen this area on the Discover Channel or Animal Planet?), and will present the Gospel of salvation and hope to people who have NEVER before heard the message!
It’s obvious that there are many hungry, hurting people here in America, and I am constantly looking for ways to share the Gospel with them. But in America, access to the Bible is everywhere—TV, radio, churches, etc. Searching, spiritually-hungry people can find help. And I want to help them. That is my first priority.
However, it’s exciting to think that I can be used to share this amazing message of love and grace with people who have never heard…not even once.
I’m writing to you for a number of reasons:
1. Will you pray for the people to whom we are being sent? Will you ask God to prepare them to hear the invitation for eternal life?
2. Will you pray for me, that God will protect and equip me in this divine assignment?
3. The cost of this trip is $3,500, which includes my airfare, accommodations and food. Will you pray that God will supply this need?
If you would like to join me on this “African Adventure,” let me know and I’ll share more information. Or, if you’d like to contribute a donation toward the cost, I would be extremely grateful. Any amount—large or small—is needed and appreciated. Since the funds go to missions, they are tax deductable.
Should you decide to give to this cause, please make your check payable to Firewind Ministries, and put my name on the memo line. Mail it to my team leader at this address: Lori Loomis, 135 Alexander Drive, Elyria, OH 44035.
Please do not feel obligated in any way. I simply wanted to share my excitement with you. Most importantly, I ask for your prayers. And I appreciate your love.
How will I keep in touch with the team before we leave the USA?
As individuals commit to making this trip, they will receive regular emails from me containing important reminders, encouragement and news updates. If we have several from one area, we will have meetings. We will endeavor to build the team attitude and unity long before we ever step onto the plane
What am I supposed to do if asked to share my testimony?
Simply share a brief story (no more than two minutes) of something God has done for you—healed you, helped you, gave you peace, etc. It should be something very basic that the Masai people can relate to. You will say one phrase or short sentence and then pause for the interpreter. Then continue to the next phrase or sentence, and so on. Be sure to emphasize that JESUS is the answer to all needs. There is no need to go on and on. The assigned preacher of the team will explain the scripture and give the call to salvation.
If we are allowed 2 checked bags, what can I take that will be a blessing?
Since most personal items that you will need can be carried in your one checked bag and carry-on items, a second bag can be loaded with ministry items. Marigold, or your team leader, will contact you with specific needs that your particular mission might have. Here are some other ideas:
* Beaded witnessing bracelets which are given to children and adults alike in explaining salvation. (The Maasai people LOVE beads!) These are great for your friends or church groups to make. Check out this site: Witnessing bracelets
* We need individually wrapped candy to give away during village ministry.
* School supplies
* Small gifts for school children. (Make sure that you have at least 150 of the same items, like pencils, stickers, bouncy balls, etc.)
* Beaded witnessing bracelets which are given to children and adults alike in explaining salvation. (The Maasai people LOVE beads!) These are great for your friends or church groups to make. Check out this site: Witnessing bracelets
* We need individually wrapped candy to give away during village ministry.
* School supplies
* Small gifts for school children. (Make sure that you have at least 150 of the same items, like pencils, stickers, bouncy balls, etc.)
Once in Kenya, what is travel like?
Travel in Kenya is difficult, to say the least. Nairobi streets are EXTREMELY crowded. Our drivers are experienced. So rather than comment on their driving, it is best to close your eyes and thank God for His protective power! [smile]
Outside the city, there is some improvement in the highways. But once we get to the mara ministry area, the roads are ROUGH. You may expect many large potholes and lots of dust. Those individuals with chronic back problems should seriously consider the road conditions before venturing onto this mission field. The van is equipped with bars to hold during the difficult journeys.
There comes a point when we go “off road,” and travel through scrub bushes to reach villages. Our drivers do their best to keep things as smooth as possible.
Outside the city, there is some improvement in the highways. But once we get to the mara ministry area, the roads are ROUGH. You may expect many large potholes and lots of dust. Those individuals with chronic back problems should seriously consider the road conditions before venturing onto this mission field. The van is equipped with bars to hold during the difficult journeys.
There comes a point when we go “off road,” and travel through scrub bushes to reach villages. Our drivers do their best to keep things as smooth as possible.
Why are the women on the team required to wear skirts?
In America, it is considered indecent for women to be bare-breasted. In Kenya, it is considered indecent for women to show the outline of themselves from the waist down. This is an African cultural issue. It is not a “holiness” or religious issue. Some younger girls in the city, however, are wearing slacks and jeans—which violates the age-old structure.
We wear skirts throughout the ENTIRE time in Kenya (even when on safari or city shopping), in order not to bring offense. We are there as ministers of the Gospel, not as tourists. Our comfort or opinions are not priority. Sharing the Gospel of Jesus IS priority.
If you are not a usual “skirt wearer,” I suggest that you find garments in a modest style and color that appeals to you. And then, “do it as unto the Lord and not unto men.”
Since I travel to Kenya on a regular basis, I wear skirts even on the plane. This way I do not offend our driver and my Kenyan friends who don’t understand American ways.
We wear skirts throughout the ENTIRE time in Kenya (even when on safari or city shopping), in order not to bring offense. We are there as ministers of the Gospel, not as tourists. Our comfort or opinions are not priority. Sharing the Gospel of Jesus IS priority.
If you are not a usual “skirt wearer,” I suggest that you find garments in a modest style and color that appeals to you. And then, “do it as unto the Lord and not unto men.”
Since I travel to Kenya on a regular basis, I wear skirts even on the plane. This way I do not offend our driver and my Kenyan friends who don’t understand American ways.
Who will be cooking, driving, etc.?
Mike and Marigold hire drivers, cooks, guards, etc. These are African men and women, and are to be shown respect and kindness.
I'm not a preacher. What can I do that would help the ministry?
People are needed to minister to the children with games and stories. Others are needed in support roles which differ with each ministry task. Everyone has something they can offer. “Ministry” means “seeing a need, and meeting it.”
On medical missions assignments, doctors, nurses, dentists, assistants are a great blessing!
On medical missions assignments, doctors, nurses, dentists, assistants are a great blessing!
What is typical Masai village ministry like?
Upon finding the remote Masai village, the interpreter will ask for permission for the team to visit. When granted, the team will leave the vehicle and greet the people with a handshake.
Music and singing get the attention of the people. Then, based upon the team leader’s directions, individuals share their testimonies and the Word of God is preached. A salvation invitation is given, and prayer for the sick also takes place.
Before leaving the village, candy is distributed to each person.
Music and singing get the attention of the people. Then, based upon the team leader’s directions, individuals share their testimonies and the Word of God is preached. A salvation invitation is given, and prayer for the sick also takes place.
Before leaving the village, candy is distributed to each person.
How do we share the Gospel if we don't speak the native language?
Each team will have a bi-lingual interpreter. Yet, you will need to be very careful about using slang terms that the interpreter might not understand. Speak words that are simple and clear in their meaning. This will make the interpreter’s job much easier.
How do I brush my teeth?
You must not use the tap water at any place in Kenya. Instead, use the provided bottled water to wet your toothbrush and rinse your mouth.
Is it safe to eat the food and drink the water?
Drink the water? Definitely not. You will be supplied with all of the safe drinking water that you need. Any other bottled beverages are safe to drink.
Any food that is cooked is safe. With regards to raw food—avoid the salads. Any fruit that can be peeled is safe. You can feel free to ask about specific foods at any time.
Any food that is cooked is safe. With regards to raw food—avoid the salads. Any fruit that can be peeled is safe. You can feel free to ask about specific foods at any time.
What is is like in the Nairobi slums?
The slums of Nairobi are very dirty. The people are poor, diseased, and for the most part—starving. There is no running water. Human sewage flows down the dirt streets. The houses are made of metal and wood scraps. Vermin are abundant. AIDS, malaria, and other diseases have claimed many lives, and these is a large abundance of homeless orphans. Prostitution is rampant. Thievery and violence are common. People live and scrounge for food in the city dump.
Mike and Marigold have planted nearly 30 churches in the slums, and financially support many of the pastors and ministries that are now in operation.
We will visit some of the churches, orphanages, and school/feeding programs established by the Cheshiers.
Mike and Marigold have planted nearly 30 churches in the slums, and financially support many of the pastors and ministries that are now in operation.
We will visit some of the churches, orphanages, and school/feeding programs established by the Cheshiers.
What will we do on safari?
We will spend one night in a very nice game reserve lodge—comfy beds, real toilets and nice showers! Because the lodge is usually located inside the game reserve, any driving to or from the lodge is through the area where wild animals are protected. An extra game drive will also be taken. The top of the vans lift up so that you can stand and get a good look at the animals. Cameras are a must! You will possibly see lions, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, antelope, gazelles, cape buffalo, elephants, warthogs, cheetahs, leopards, baboons, monkeys, hippos, and much more. AS long as you remain inside the vehicle, you are perfectly safe.
The lodge is very nice and the food is excellent. Mike and Marigold schedule this “break” as a “thank you” for your hard work on the mission field. They are able to get good prices on the accommodations because they have planted churches among the employees in most of the lodges and are highly respected, AND Marigold is a shrewd businesswoman! [smile]
Sunday, November 21, 2010
What animals are around the campsite?
I have personally heard hyena, lions, elephants, wildebeests, zebras, hyrax, and others that were unidentifiable to me. There are multitudes of birds. During the day, you’ll also see giraffe, monkeys, antelope, gazelles, and more.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Is it safe to camp in this area? What about wild animals?
Masai guards are hired to stay awake all night. They are armed with spears, clubs, and poison arrows—weapons that are very effective for them. They keep small fires burning around the campsite. You will hear animal sounds, but you will be safe.
What is it like at the campsite?
The Cheshiers assign people to various tents that are situated inside a fenced area. Masai guards stand watch at the perimeter of the campsite and keep fires lit all night. There is also a large campfire used for heating water. Other campfires are built for the cooks to prepare meals.
Air mattresses that we bring are inflated by a generator at the campsite, and are refilled throughout our stay as needed. We leave these air mattresses with the Cheshiers to use for African pastors visiting the training area.
There is a “choo” –a primitive concrete outhouse, as well as a concrete shower house (4 stalls).
Meals are prepared by hired African cooks (delicious!), and are served in a screened pavilion.
Each morning after breakfast, Mike and Marigold lead the group in devotions and prayer time. They make team assignments and give specific daily directions.
Evenings after dark bring great opportunity for conversation around the campfire. Chairs are provided for you.
What is the Plane Ride Like?
The flight across the ocean, and then on into Kenya is on a large plane, at least 10 seats across with two aisles. Each seat has its own TV/video screen, remote and ear phones. Once in the air, you will be able to watch your choice of movies, play a variety of video games, or listen to music. You can also watch a map which shows the exact location of the plan. It’s interesting to mark your progress over the ocean, Europe, and northern Africa. You may want to bring along your IPOD. Several meals are served, as well as snacks and cold drinks. Small pillows and lightweight blankets are provided. It is a LONG flight, and the seats do not recline much. Though the plane will be very crowded, it is suggested that you walk around a bit—both to use the restroom and to get a little exercise.
What Should I Pack?
· Travel alarm clock
· Diarrhea and motion sickness medication
· Benadryl or other medicine for allergic reactions
· Flashlight and extra batteries. When the sun goes down in the African bush, it is VERY dark!
· Two towels and washcloths
· Hat
· Sunglasses
· Sunscreen—The sun shines hot in Kenya!
· Small packs of Kleenex—toilet tissue is a rare commodity.
· Small bottle of hand sanitizer and liquid soap. THIS IS A MUST! You will use this FREQUENTLY.
· Wet wipes—these are great for personal hygiene in the bush, as well as cleanup after riding on the dusty roads.
· Chapstick or lip balm
· Toiletries such as shampoo, soap/shower gel, make-up, etc.
· Gum, breath mints, personal candy
· Bible, journal, ink pens
· Camera, extra batteries, battery charger
· Electric outlet adapter. There will be no electricity when we are camping. However in the hotels, you may want to use blow dryers, etc. African outlets are designed much differently than ours. Adapters can be purchased in the luggage department.
· Insect repellent which contains ‘deet.’ Bring a non-aerosol container.
· Ladies—blow dryer, curling iron, etc.
· Hand mirror, hair brush, comb
· Snacks—crackers, jerky, nuts, etc. that you can carry in your tote bag. If you don’t use these yourself, you can share them with the team during our many journeys. They will also save you money in the airports. Some team members take snacks to give away to the shepherd children that we meet as we’re driving from village to village.
· 5 or 6 changes of clothing. Firewind Ministries employs Maasai women to handwash laundry daily. This provides income to the Kenyans and a service to team members.
o Women are expected to wear dresses or skirts throughout the entirety of our stay in Kenya. This is not a church or religious rule, but rather a part of African culture. Women everywhere wear skirts. If we wear pants or shorts, we will be a cultural outcast and they will not hear our message. Long, wide-bottomed skirts are best for movement, as there is much climbing in and out of vehicles. It is ideal if they have pockets—you can carry wet wipes, tissue and hand sanitizer with you at all times.
o Women should not wear sleeveless tops or dresses. Modesty is the key!
o Women may wear a slip if needed, knit shorts, or leggings as a slip.
o Men may wear T-shirts or short-sleeve button up shirts, jeans or khaki’s.
o Clothing may become permanently stained, so pack accordingly.
· Jacket or sweater. It does get chilly after sunset. As we are tent camping there is no place to go “get warm,” except by the campfire.
· Socks, sleepwear, underwear
· It is good to pack your clothing in jumbo zip-lock bags or space saver bags. It will protect them from spills during travel, and will help in packing very dirty clothing for the trip back home.
· Do not bring an iron. However, if wrinkles are a concern for you, you can bring a bottle of fabric wrinkle releaser.
· Comfortable hiking boots. These are necessary in the high grasses and abundant animal “scat” (manure). Fallen thorns from the acacia thorn trees cover the ground. Wear something that covers at least the ankle area.
· Flip flops to shower in.
· Comfortable shoes for city wear or church services. (No sandals or open toed shoes as parasites can find a lodging place under toenails. Just a precaution!)
· Jewelry is not recommended because of theft in the city. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets and watches can be ripped from you.
TSA Requirements for the Flight
TSA and our security partners conducted extensive explosives testing since August 10, 2006 and determined that liquids, aerosols and gels, in limited quantities, are safe to bring aboard an aircraft. The one bag limit per traveler limits the total amount each traveler can bring. Consolidating the bottles into one bag and X-raying them separately from the carry-on bag enables security officers to quickly clear the items.
3-1-1 for carry-ons = 3.4 ounce (100ml) bottle or less (by volume) ; 1 quart-sized, clear, plastic, zip-top bag; 1 bag per passenger placed in screening bin. One-quart bag per person limits the total liquid volume each traveler can bring. 3.4 ounce (100ml) container size is a security measure.
Be prepared. Each time TSA searches a carry-on it slows down the line. Practicing 3-1-1 will ensure a faster and easier checkpoint experience.
3-1-1 is for short trips. If in doubt, put your liquids in checked luggage.
Declare larger liquids. Medications are allowed in reasonable quantities exceeding three ounces and are not required to be in the zip-top bag. Declare these items for inspection at the checkpoint.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Travel Tips
- Clothing for the flight—“comfort” is the key word. Ladies, you may wear pants or capris. Men may wear walking shorts. You can change clothing once we arrive in Kenya.
- Put your money on your body, preferably under your clothing. It is best NOT to carry your wallet in your back pocket. It is also unwise to carry a fanny pack around your waist. This marks you as a tourist, and in Nairobi, thieves will have no problem ripping this off of you. Most team members wear a pouch under the shirt that is attached to a neck cord. Money, Passport, and immunization records can be kept there. Pouches are available in the luggage section of Wal-Mart, Target, etc.
- Make photocopies of your passport, immunization record, and flight itinerary. Your family will need to keep one copy of your passport, as well as your trip insurance paperwork. Carry the other copy with you.
- Bring only items that are old, or things you do not mind losing, leaving, or ruining. Some team members leave clothing and shoes for their new African friends.
- Ladies, don’t carry a purse. Necessary items can either be placed in your neck pouch. Other items may be placed in your carry-on luggage.
- Each traveler is allowed to take one carry-on bag, a smaller tote bag, and one piece of checked luggage (this fluctuates with various airlines. We may be allowed two checked bags, but don’t plan on that.) Each checked bag must NOT exceed 50 pounds, or you will be charged a high price at the airport.
- Tag each piece of your luggage with your name, address and phone number.
- Place a unique, bright-colored ribbon on each of your checked pieces before you leave. This helps us retrieve the luggage at baggage pickups, and is a BIG deal. Getting our baggage from the claims area can be a tedious process.
- You may take a neck pillow. The airline will provide small pillows and lightweight blankets during the flight.
- In your carry-on luggage:
- Pack as many of your clothing items as possible, necessary meds, essential toiletries, camera, Bible, journal, pen. In case your luggage is lost or delayed, you will be prepared.
- In your checked bag, carry your required camping supplies, boots, hat, etc.
- In the event that we are allowed an additional checked bag, this will be used for transporting give-away items. Once empty, this bag will be great for carrying souvenirs back home.
- As soon as our flights are booked, I will alert you to the number of bags that you can take.
How Can I Raise Money for the Trip?
- PRAY regularly. If God calls, He provides.
- Begin to save NOW. Regularly send me what you have. Keep track of your finds. I will do the same and then forward the money to Marigold. She will be purchasing our airline tickets with her credit card. We must have this money to her on time so that she does not incur any penalty payments.
- You may choose to send out a sponsorship letter. Check my sample letter. Personalize your letter and sent it to friends and family members. Tell them that they can receive tax credit by making it payable to Firewind Ministries. They may send their checks to you or directly to me. Whenever I receive money for your account, I will send a balance statement back to you.
- You may choose to do personal fund-raisers. Ask God to give you creative ideas.
- Let your pastor know about your trip. Some churches give a certain level of support. Even if your church does not financially assist you, your pastor needs to know of your intentions. You want his/her prayer covering!
How Can I Stay in Touch With My Family?
- Email and Phone Calls—
- If you purchase a phone card (approximately $12), you may use a team member's cell phone or internet to stay connected to your family. Once there, you can contact your family members with Marigold's phone number so that they may reach you if the need arises.
- Phone and internet service is available at our Nairobi hotel, as well as in village internet cafes.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Travel Funds
- $3,500—Includes airfare, lodging, food, tips, and other incidental expenses incurred while in Africa. This money can be handled in two different ways.
- The entire amount can be sent ahead of trip departure. All checks should be made payable to Firewind Ministries, and be sent to me:
Lori Loomis
135 Alexander Drive
Elyria, OH 44035
- At least $2,000 needs to be sent to me by June 30. This will cover flight expenses that have been placed on Firewind Ministries’ credit card. The remaining $1,500 can be carried in cash to Africa. This is a preferred alternative so that the Cheshiers have money to exchange for purchase of supplies, etc. (If you are hesitant about carrying money on your person during the flight, other team members can carry it for you.)
- So that donors may receive tax credit for the cash that you need to take, have those checks made payable to your local church. Then the church can credit the giving, and convert it to cash for your trip. (If this is unclear, we can discuss this personally.)
- All giving for the Africa trip is tax deductable.
- I must keep records of your account. Payments sent to me will be recorded and forwarded to Firewind Ministries.
- After June 30, I will need to hear from you regarding any cash that you are taking.
- $35—Required travel insurance through the Assemblies of God World Missions Department. I will give you this form and you can set it to me, along with a check made payable to Firewind Ministries. I must have this by June 1, 2011. Marigold will pay AGWM for the entire team.
- $50—When we arrive in Nairobi’s Kenyatta Airport, we must purchase a Kenya visa. I will have the necessary paperwork for you to fill out on the plane before our arrival. This fund MUST be a $50 bill that you bring with you. Perchance this amount has been reduced to $25 (as on very recent trips), have a $20 and a $5 bill available.
- Additional Travel Costs—If you are planning to travel with me from Cleveland, Ohio (or possibly Detroit—in which case I will provide van transportation to that Michigan airport), and live in another locale, it will be necessary for you to make travel arrangements in order to make connections. We can discuss this personally. My home is always open to team members who need a room before or after a trip.
- You may choose to fly on your own from your home directly to Kenya. However, if you are a first-time international traveler, this is not recommended.
- Spending Money—This amount is up to you. It covers:
- Food and drinks at airports. These should be smaller bills. If you give a foreign merchant a large US bill, he may not have enough US currency to make change, and will substitute his local currency.
- Until Marigold makes our flight arrangements, we will not know where our layovers will be, or how long they will last. Local sightseeing MAY be an option. If that is the case, I will notify you of the plans so that you can have necessary funds.
- Soft drinks in Kenya—Plenty of safe drinking water will be provided for you throughout our stay in Kenya. Coffee and hot teas are also provided in the restaurants at no cost to you. However, if you choose to drink soft drinks, juice, iced tea, bottled water, etc., you will need to pay for these at the time of purchase.
- Souvenirs—There will be opportunity for you to purchase items for you and your friends. We will have at least one day where we will visit Nairobi shops. The safari lodge also has a gift shop. Street vendors will make their wares available to you. The amount is completely up to you. Most team members take $150-200 for these items.
- At the beginning of our trip, we will exchange our dollars for shillings (Ksh). The larger the bill, the better rate of exchange you will be offered. $100 and $50 bills receive the best rate of exchange. The bills should be dated after 2000.
- You will use these Ksh to make your purchases while in Kenya. Any leftover money at the end of the trip can either be given as an offering to the ministry, or can be exchanged back into US currency.
- Most credit cards are accepted.
- Preplan what you might like to buy, and whom you need to shop for. This will help expedite time. Remember—we’re not in Kenya to shop. We’re there to minister.
Immunizations
You can visit your physician or local county health department. Begin this process right away, so that you don’t run out of time. Some of these shots are in series, and must be administered a specific time intervals. The cost for these immunizations is not included in the cost of the trip. Most of them will cover you for a lifetime. So, this will be an initial investment into your missions career. You will receive an immunization record that must be carried on the trip.
Absolutely required:
- Yellow Fever
- Malaria
- You may use the weekly or daily meds prescribed by your doctor.
- Or, you may choose a homeopathic preventative, Demal200, available at www.blueturtlegroup.com
Highly recommended:
- Polio
- Hepatitis A/Hepatitis B (Twin Rix)
- Typhoid
- Tetnus
Your health care professional will discuss other preventatives that he/she recommends.
Passport
If you do not have a passport, this should be your first step.
- You can visit any pot office and pick up the necessary paper work.
- You can print the necessary forms from this website: www.travel.state.gov/passport
- The cost for your passport is not included in the cost of this trip. However, your passport will be valid for ten years, so you will be able to travel on many more missions trips.
- If you already have a passport, check the expiration date. Make sure that it expires at least one year AFTER the date of our trip. Some travelers whose passports expired earlier were prohibited from leaving the U.S.
Let me introduce Mike and Marigold Cheshier...
Marigold Cheshier
Marigold began her ministry at age 12 with evangelistic crusades. She is not only a powerful preacher, but also a very gifted singer with more than 17 recordings. These albums have been sold literally around the world. Marigold has ministered as the featured speaker at 47 of the 57 district women"s retreats for the Assemblies of God, as well as many inter-denominational conferences. She has also ministered at national women’s conferences on several continents. She has appeared on most of the major Christian television ministries such as the 700 Club, Sky Angel, and TBN affiliates. A mother of two children and four grandchildren, Marigold has been blessed. Serving the Lord in the role of Missionary/Evangelist, she finds herself still on the front lines of furthering the Kingdom of God. Having had three bouts with cancer, numerous miraculous interventions, and being sustained for the work set before her, her testimony will thrill and inspire all who hear it.
Michael Cheshier
Mike is a graduate of Southwestern Assemblies of God University. He has pastored for over 23 years and was presbyter in the Louisiana district for three years. Mike pastored his first church at the age of 19; throughout his career, he has pastored six churches. He has held evangelistic crusades in most of our 50 states and on three continents. He has served on the National Evangelist Committee of the Assemblies of God. He has appeared on TBN, Sky Angel, and TBN affiliates. Mike also has a sense of history concerning his movement, as his grandmother was ordained at the first General Council of the Assemblies of God in 1914. She did not pass from this life until 1991, at which time she was the oldest living charter member of the A/G.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Firewind Ministries
Firewind Ministries is the ministry of Mike and Marigold Cheshier. During their 40 years of ministry together, they have been both pastors and evangelists. Their ministries have taken them to over 70 countries in the world, and most of the 50 states. Dynamic, powerful preaching and anointed music combine with the Holy Spirit’s power to reach the unbeliever and to bring renewal to the church of Jesus Christ.
Mike and Marigold are ordained ministers of the Assemblies of God, and bring many varied gifts and experiences to the evangelistic ministry to which God has called them.
The Cheshiers have many experiences from which to draw to illustrate the power of the Gospel and victorious grace. In 1982, their son was severely burned over the upper 30% of his body. He was not only burned externally, but after inhaling the flames, suffered burns in his throat and lungs. God brought him from a death sentence to a preacher and power-lifter, bench pressing 450 lbs. Recently, Mikey was healed completely from a cancerous tumor that encompassed 1/3 of his chest cavity.
In 1984, their daughter was beaten and left for dead at a roadside park in Louisiana. The Cheshiers were told that she would never be able to bear children because of the physical trauma. Today, she is a children’s evangelist and a mother of twin boys.
In 1984, Marigold was given 18 months to live because of cancer. Today she is preaching the Gospel and singing all over the world.
The Cheshiers give God the glory for all of the victories in their lives. They rejoice at the mighty delivering power of our resurrected Savior, Jesus Christ.
Trip Overview ...
- We will be working with Missionaries Mike and Marigold Cheshier—Firewind Ministries. www.firewind.org
- 4 days of air travel (2 leaving; 2 returning). The flight is approximately 16 ½ hours with a layover midway.
- First day in Kenya will be spent in Nairobi—orientation, acclimation to new time zone, money exchange, resting, meeting other team members.
- We will travel west from Nairobi to the Rift Valley and into the Masai Mara region, tent camping for several days on the property of Firewind Ministries. While there, teams will:
- travel daily to villages sharing the Gospel and praying for the sick.
- minister to any Masai pastors or people visiting the camp site.
- minister in established Masai churches.
- We will enjoy a short “break” at a nice lodge and experience the African safari.
- Back in Nairobi, we will visit and minister in orphanages and churches in the extremely impoverished slums.
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