Word of the Week: Chosen

When we first entered the local destitute houses, walked room-to-room in Gwagalada's barren community school, or visited the impoverished villages at the outskirts of town, the word which initially came to mind was forgotten.  But the eyes of each of those we met told a much richer story.  This was a community deeply rooted in love for each other, and sustained by a clear and unwavering belief in Christ.

Through their hardships, they thanked God for His provision, and worked selflessly to support the needs of those around them.  They served as an amazing example that they, like all of us, are a chosen people - specifically created and favored by God.  From the people we met during our time in Nigeria, I learned firsthand what it means to remain hopeful, guided by faith, and to humbly and selfless support your community's collective needs.  - Tyler DeVan, Anawim Home Team '11

United Through Prayer

Let Me Give
"I do not know how long I will live, but while I live, Lord let me give some comfort to someone in need by my smile, deed, or kind word and let me do whatever I can to ease things for my neighbour. I want nothing but to do my part to lift a tired or weary heart or to change people's frowns to smile, then I will not have lived in vain. And I will not care how long I will live if only I can give and give - and - give." - Oresoa

 

Sister Oresoa - founder of Anawim Home in Gwagwalada, Nigeria - lives by an encouraging and humbling motto. As members of the Nativity community joined in prayer this week, we were lifted up by the devout faith and sacrifice of our partners in Nigeria. Learn more about the amazing work of Sister Oresoa and the Missionary Sisters of the Poorest of the Poor.

Praying for Partners

Join us this Wednesday (April 18) at Nativity, as we remember our strategic partners in unified prayer. We will meet at 6:30pm to pray for a peaceful resolution to the string of violence in Nigeria, and for God's continued provision for our parish community and partners abroad. All are welcome and invited to join!

Anawim Greeting

Today we received the following message from our partner Sister Oresoa, founder of Anawim Home. During this tough time for our brothers and sisters in Nigeria, we continue to keep them in prayer.

Happy Easter to the entire Nativity family! It gives us great joy and comfort that the Nativity parish remembers us in prayers. Thank you all so much! Today the Sisters of the Poorest of the Prayer joined in prayer for peace in our country, and the whole world. As we continue to pray for each other, may God shower his love, peace and blessings upon us all. Amen!

Remain Blessed,
Sister Oresoa

Faith Alive Greeting

We received the following greeting from our partner Dr. Chris Isiche of Faith Alive Hospital. In light of yesterday's tragic violence in Kaduna, Nigeria, we continue to pray for peace in Jos and Abuja.

My Dear Friends,
We feel the impact of your prayers and continue to appreciate you for the many lovely and godly things you do. We shall overcome in His name. Easter reminds us all of the supreme price He paid for us, and I thank God for all of you at Nativity who continue to follow in His steps.

- Dr. Chris & the Faith Alive Family

Easter Wishes

Holy Week is a time when, as a Christian community, we get to joyously remember and give thanks for our Father's remarkable gift. During this celebration of Christ's resurrection, we specifically pray for God's provision and grace as He continues to support the needs of our partners at both Faith Alive Hospital and Anawim Home. We send love and prayers to our family in Jos and Abuja during this Easter season.