July 2011July 2011July 2011July 2011

Sheltering WingsSheltering WingsSheltering WingsSheltering Wings

Inside this issue:Inside this issue:Inside this issue:Inside this issue:

Sponsorship Sponsorship Sponsorship Sponsorship

StoriesStoriesStoriesStories 2222

Mission Partners: Mission Partners: Mission Partners: Mission Partners:

California TeamCalifornia TeamCalifornia TeamCalifornia Team 3333

Supporter Supporter Supporter Supporter Receives Receives Receives Receives Prestigious Prestigious Prestigious Prestigious AwardAwardAwardAward

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Capital Projects that are bearing Fruit:Capital Projects that are bearing Fruit:Capital Projects that are bearing Fruit:Capital Projects that are bearing Fruit: Agriculture and Animal HusbandryAgriculture and Animal HusbandryAgriculture and Animal HusbandryAgriculture and Animal Husbandry

He causes the grass to grow for the cattle, And vegetation for the

labor of man,

So that he may bring forth food from the earth - Psalm 104:14

As discussed in last month’s newsletter, ninety percent of the Burkinabe people will try to survive on subsistence farming again this year. The periodic droughts and heavy rains continue to make this task difficult. “Les Ailes de Refuge” does their part by employing locals and teaching students and orphans to survive and excel in the culture as they know it.

Sheltering Wings has several ongoing projects in the area of agriculture. One cultivation project includes growing Moringa trees for nutritional value. Animal husbandry pro-jects include breeding chickens for nutrition and raising cattle for profit. Engaging in these projects offers the chil-dren good nutrition while at the same time, teaches them how to provide for their families through farming and to understand economic decision making as well.

The cultivation program began with a gift. As a donation, one missionary family gave approximately three hundred Moringa trees planted around the perimeter of Ruth’s courtyard. These trees have been called the miracle tree of Africa because they can withstand the heat and drought, yet the harvest is most plentiful in the rainy sea-son. The children have learned the value of caring for the trees. A powder from the trees provides essential vitamins and minerals along with essential amino acids and power-ful anti-oxidants. This powdered supplement is sprinkled directly on their food at the orphanage. The leaves can be used in salads, the oil from the seed is also used to purify

water, and the wood, when pruned, can be used to make fences to keep animals away from the plants.

In breeding animals, Ruth currently has 20-25 hens laying approximately 15-20 eggs a day. The eggs provide pro-tein snacks for the babies in the orphanage. At the same time the local employees and older children are taught the value of eggs in a culture where the chickens are tra-ditionally bred only for the meat product. This project began with a grant from the US Embassy. The grant monies provided housing for the chickens, concrete pad and fencing. In addition to raising chickens, they have a couple of goats inside the courtyard as well.

Outside the courtyard, in a joint venture between Pastor

Salou and Sheltering Wings, they are raising cattle for

profit. This project began about four years ago. Currently the expenses are split and include: pay-

ing a shepherd, veterinary costs and purchasing food in the dry season. With eight animals, the

original investment has produced three new babies and possibly two cows fattened up enough for

sale this fall. At some point a fence or enclosure will be needed. An enclosure with a small walk-

way will help keep the veterinary costs down by making it easier for the doctor to examine each of

the animals on regular visits.

Therese surrounded by Moringa Therese surrounded by Moringa Therese surrounded by Moringa Therese surrounded by Moringa

Moringa trees are being

used around the world to

reduce poverty and

malnutrition.

The trees grow quickly

and much of the plant is

edible, by humans and

livestock.

The leaves contain all

essential amino acids

and are rich in protein,

vitamin A, vitamin B,

vitamin C, & minerals.

In Mooré

(the dominant tribal

language in Burkina

Faso), the Moringa Tree

is called “Arzan Tiiga”

which means:

“Tree of Paradise”.

Raising chicken for eggs and proteinRaising chicken for eggs and proteinRaising chicken for eggs and proteinRaising chicken for eggs and protein

Cattle grazing in fieldsCattle grazing in fieldsCattle grazing in fieldsCattle grazing in fields

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Sponsorship: A Bond of Love and PrayerSponsorship: A Bond of Love and PrayerSponsorship: A Bond of Love and PrayerSponsorship: A Bond of Love and Prayer

Nouroudine PazembaNouroudine PazembaNouroudine PazembaNouroudine Pazemba Continuing His EducationContinuing His EducationContinuing His EducationContinuing His Education

Meet Nouroudine and his family. This 10 year old boy completed 3rd grade this past year (2010-2011) at the Sheltering Wings Primary School. His mother and father are both living but he is a child at risk because of the number of children in the family. Inside the courtyard, twenty one family members share the small mud brick houses. With no running water or electricity, life is challenging. Only one adult male, Nouroudine’s father, serves as head of household for both immediate and extended family. The other adult males have either died or left the courtyard looking for work along the Ivory Coast. Eleven of the twenty one people living in this courtyard are Nouroudine's brothers and sisters. As a subsistence farmer, Nouroudine father works hard to support everyone within the courtyard. The entire family must work in the fields during the rainy season. The farm work is done manually. It is difficult enough to produce suffi-cient food for this large family when the rains are good. When the rains are in-

sufficient, because of Burkina's sub-Saharan climate, the family suffers greatly. The family lives a very simple life. They generally eat two meals a day and the most popular meal is called tó. Tó is made out of millet or corn flour and is served with a traditional sauce made of leaves and seeds with a peanut butter base. Nouroudine’s mother prepares meals for her family over a wood fire. Nouroudine’s opportunity for school is a rich cultural blessing and an opportunity for this family. His parents are both illiterate and only he and two of his siblings have the privilege of going to school. With these limited circumstances it is unlikely that the family will ever overcome this cycle of poverty. Grateful to be in school, Nouroudine walks to and from school each day. He has little time, if any, to play after the school day is done. He goes home to chores that can range anywhere from fetching water to looking after younger siblings. Providing Nouroudine an opportunity to continue his schooling at the Sheltering Wings Primary School, offers hope for him and for his family. Nouroudine needs a financial sponsor to insure that he is able to stay in school. He also needs a sponsor who will com-mit to actively praying for and encouraging his family. If you are up for the challenge, contact Brenda at info@sheltering-wings.org

Sitting back in my office chair I take a moment to reflect. As I glance above me I see a clock strategically set to Burkina Faso time. The clock hangs on the wall next to a pic-ture of the new Sheltering Wings Primary School. These objects serve as reminders to me that I need to be in constant prayer for my sponsored children. In the picture, I can clearly see the dry and desolate area surrounding the school, prompting me to pray for rains and daily provisions of food and water. Having visited Burkina Faso this past Janu-ary, I remember my first impression as we walked through a field used for planting crops. I could not imagine how anything could grow in the dry red tinted sand called farmland. Turning 90 degrees to my left, I look out my window. I see the lush green grass and the landscaping in my own front yard. Pop up roses and lilies bloom having been planted, honestly, for nothing more than my own aesthetic pleasure. On the wall, just to the right of my window, is painted one of my favorite bible verses. Reading this scripture, I am reminded that despite the deep con-trasts in our lives, we, my sponsored children and I, share at least one thing in common-a Heavenly Father who loves us. And so, I pray... Will you join me?

Reflections from home...Reflections from home...Reflections from home...Reflections from home... Praying for my sponsored childrenPraying for my sponsored childrenPraying for my sponsored childrenPraying for my sponsored children

Share a sponsorship story with us. Email us at: info@sheltering-wings.org

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.

Hebrews 10: 24-25

Nouroudine needs a sponsor Nouroudine needs a sponsor Nouroudine needs a sponsor Nouroudine needs a sponsor

My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from Him. He

alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress, I will never be

shaken

Psalm 62:1-2

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Missions Partners: The Handiwork of God Missions Partners: The Handiwork of God Missions Partners: The Handiwork of God Missions Partners: The Handiwork of God Brings Unity in PurposeBrings Unity in PurposeBrings Unity in PurposeBrings Unity in Purpose

Through a series of unexpected events, the Lord sent me to Burkina Faso in 2007. Here, I was introduced to a man named Andrew (name changed). Andrew grew up in a Muslim home and his father was one of the Imams (Muslim clergy) in the village. A divine appointment with a missionary and a drawing by the Spirit brought Andrew into a personal relationship with Christ. Once he gave his heart to Christ, he began to serve his village and surrounding villages as an interpreter for missions groups that came to share the message of Christ's redeeming love. This is how I first met Andrew. His joyful attitude truly reflects his love for Christ. He was always willing to be used in whatever capacity God placed before him. According to Andrew, many of his family and friends would question him about why he was so happy. His response would be, "I spent the night talking with Jesus and He makes me happy!" Since our first meeting, I have had several opportunities to serve along with Andrew in West Africa.

As preparation for our church to possibly become a partnering church to an un-reached village in Africa, I attended a Sub Sahara conference in Arnold Missouri in September 2010. It was a great conference and I was able to interact with other people who had been to West Africa and had also felt the call to bring the Gospel there. While at the conference, I met Dawn Prather. After visiting with her for a short time, I found out that her home church had been to Burkina Faso several times and that they were partnering with an orphanage and desired to go to a village called Kimini. It did not take long to connect our stories and realize that we both were acquainted with Andrew. He had been an interpreter for their team as well. Last month I was able to meet Ruth Cox from Sheltering Wings at a fundraising banquet in California Missouri. She knows Andrew as well and has been blessed by his love for Jesus and willingness to help others hear the Gospel message.

Andrew is often criticized for his commitment to Christ, yet he continues to be strong and share his faith with others and serve the Body of Christ in Burkina Faso. I have been truly blessed in counting Andrew as a Brother in Christ. I am also in awe of how God allows Christians’ lives to intersect, bringing encouragement to one another through common interests and friends.

The handiwork of God comes together like pieces of a quilt, once separate, individuals are brought together, relationships are built

and bonds, like the thread, bringing unity and purpose. - Naomi Dyck - from Willow Springs, Missouri

The glory which You have given Me I have given to them, that they may be one, just as We are one; I in them and You in Me, that they may be perfected in unity, so that the world may know that You sent Me, and loved them, even as You have loved Me. Father, I desire that they also, whom You have given Me, be with Me where I am, so that they may see My glory which You have given Me, for You loved Me before the foundation of the world. - John 17: 22-24

In July, a member of Naomi’s church in Willow Springs Missouri will join the

California Baptist Church as they head to Burkina Faso. Several members will

provide assistance at the school, orphanage and clinic, while others will

accompany Ruth to Kimini. God is working in this village and many events have

paved the way for reaching the people with the love of Christ. The group hopes to

begin by building relationships. The long term vision is for schools, medical clinics

and above all, eternal life through Jesus Christ. Clean water is on its way as well!!

The banquet held in California Missouri at the end of May this year raised funds

and awareness needed to keep the vision alive. Please join us in praying for this

team as they “GO” to Burkina Faso this month (July 22-August 3rd). We wait

expectantly to see what the Lord will do with and through this team.

California Team:California Team:California Team:California Team: Heading for Burkina FasoHeading for Burkina FasoHeading for Burkina FasoHeading for Burkina Faso

Heavenly Father, We praise you and thank you for willing servants. We thank you Lord that you have hand picked these servants. Help them to enlighten and encourage the people of Kimini as they share the gospel message Continue to prepare the hearts of those who will receive the good news. Help us here at home to remember to pray for all of them as we serve as senders. In Jesus name we pray.

See Romans 10:15

Ruth speaks at Missions banquet with Ruth speaks at Missions banquet with Ruth speaks at Missions banquet with Ruth speaks at Missions banquet with backdrop of quilts for auctionbackdrop of quilts for auctionbackdrop of quilts for auctionbackdrop of quilts for auction

Mission banquet in California MO.Mission banquet in California MO.Mission banquet in California MO.Mission banquet in California MO.

Demonstrating the love of JesusDemonstrating the love of JesusDemonstrating the love of JesusDemonstrating the love of Jesus

to a hurting worldto a hurting worldto a hurting worldto a hurting world St. Louis area business leader, Jennifer Labit was named among the 2011 re-gional entrepreneurs of the year by Ernst & Young LLP. She was recognized in the emerging entrepreneur’s category. Jen is the owner of Cotton Babies, based in St. Louis County Missouri. Her com-pany, Cotton Babies, was developed out of a tiny $100 investment; leading the way among natural parenting retailers since 2002. With a commitment to operate in the black she has found ways to share the blessings of her profits. In addition to running a busy online operation, and several stores, Cotton Babies has gra-ciously provided community services and international support to the less fortu-nate. As one of the recipients of her company’s generosity, Sheltering Wings has re-ceived money to provide formula for the babies as well as numerous donations of diapers. Jen’s contributions to Sheltering Wings over the years have blessed the children in incredible ways. For example, hot weather and hand washing of dia-pers, wears them out quickly. New diapers are always needed!! We look forward to continuing to partner with Cotton Ba-bies in order to care for the needs of our children. We would like to take the opportunity to congratu-late Jen Labit and her family for their hard earned award. We also wanted to thank them for their continued support!

Sheltering Wings

P O Box 29565

St. Louis, MO 63126

Phone: 314-635-6316

Email: info@sheltering-wings.org Ruth’s Blog: http://burkinaorphanage.blogspot.com

ShelteringShelteringShelteringSheltering----Wings.orgWings.orgWings.orgWings.org

Child Sponsorship Changes Lives!

For just $35 a month…

Contact

Info@Sheltering-Wings.org

Sheltering WingsSheltering WingsSheltering WingsSheltering Wings

Ruth just returned to Burkina Faso after a couple month sabbatical. Thankfully Ruth did find a some rest and family time here in the states, while still staying engaged in stateside mission work. Thank you Ruth for your continued dedication to the people of Burkina Faso. Thank you for your hard work and encouragement you provide to those who stand with you and support you from the United States. Our prayer is that the Lord’s plans for Ruth and the children be firmly established. We ask for renewal, refreshment, and revival for the work in Burkina. Lord we thank you for safe travel, protection, and rest for Ruth.

Faithful Sheltering Wings supporter is honored...Faithful Sheltering Wings supporter is honored...Faithful Sheltering Wings supporter is honored...Faithful Sheltering Wings supporter is honored... “Cotton Babies” owner named entrepreneur of the year “Cotton Babies” owner named entrepreneur of the year “Cotton Babies” owner named entrepreneur of the year “Cotton Babies” owner named entrepreneur of the year

We send thanks to the many companies, churches,

organizations, schools and individuals that work

behind the scenes to make this ministry a success.

Successful twoSuccessful twoSuccessful twoSuccessful two----month Sabbaticalmonth Sabbaticalmonth Sabbaticalmonth Sabbatical----FurloughFurloughFurloughFurlough Ruth Returns to Burkina FasoRuth Returns to Burkina FasoRuth Returns to Burkina FasoRuth Returns to Burkina Faso

Baby at Sheltering Wings. Grateful for new diapersBaby at Sheltering Wings. Grateful for new diapersBaby at Sheltering Wings. Grateful for new diapersBaby at Sheltering Wings. Grateful for new diapers

Ruth and school superintendent outside new primary Ruth and school superintendent outside new primary Ruth and school superintendent outside new primary Ruth and school superintendent outside new primary schoolschoolschoolschool

Lord we thank you for the Lord we thank you for the Lord we thank you for the Lord we thank you for the passion you instill in your passion you instill in your passion you instill in your passion you instill in your

people.people.people.people.

We Thank you for the We Thank you for the We Thank you for the We Thank you for the organizational skills, gifts, organizational skills, gifts, organizational skills, gifts, organizational skills, gifts, financial contributions, love, financial contributions, love, financial contributions, love, financial contributions, love,

support and prayers poured out support and prayers poured out support and prayers poured out support and prayers poured out daily from supporters around daily from supporters around daily from supporters around daily from supporters around

the world.the world.the world.the world.

Amen.Amen.Amen.Amen.