We hope this update finds each of you doing well and serving the Lord in the States as we serve the Lord here in Kenya. This update will share current ministry progress, prayer requests, and also share an exciting new ministry opportunity that my wife has decided to pursue.

The building that has recently been finished has been working very well for the ministry at the prison. Before we had our own building, it was very difficult to have flexibility with my ministry, as the building I used to use was being used for several different purposes. Now, there is no interference, and I praise the Lord for this. Usually, after my ministry during the morning hours, the building is free for the prisoners to have further study time during the afternoons. The prisoners are so grateful to have this opportunity, as it was very difficult in the past for them. The Lord has definitely answered our prayers, and we appreciate each donor that gave so sacrificially so that we could have this new place to meet. I have attached a photo of the building, along with my wife, and the chaplains in the prison who assist me in this ministry. This is the first photo I have been able to send out, and I thank the Lord that I was allowed to show the donors the progress of the funds that they gave. You all are a big blessing to us. Thank you so much for assisting us both by prayer and financial support, for we could not do this work without you. God has promised to meet each of our needs, and you are a special part of this ministry to us. (Philippians 4:19)

New ministry building at Kitale Main Prison

We are excited to announce a new ministry here in Kitale. My wife has had a burden for children, and has always desired to assist them in any way that she can. An orphanage is not possible for us, as we lack resources that would be needed to effectively conduct this ministry. As such, we began searching for a way that she could help underprivileged babies in our area. This is a huge need, as there are millions of orphans and underprivileged children in Kenya alone. Even children with parents will live in at most a mud hut with dirty drinking water, little food, and unsanitary conditions. We discovered that the best place for Carrie to minister to these babies is at the Kitale District Hospital, the poorest hospital we have seen in this area. There are no sheets on beds, one bathing area for the entire ward, and medical instruments are often left exposed, increasing the possibility of infection and insect contamination. Nurses are often harried as the needs of the patients overwhelm the availability of the nurses and the medicine. To give you an idea of the poverty level, a regular birth costs $20.00.

Nathan's mother (Pam) was also interested in this ministry, and goes with Carrie to the hospital two mornings per week. At the hospital, Carrie and Pam assist with taking care of the pre-mature babies by bathing them and providing clean diapers, blankets, hats, socks, etc. They have seen a lack of parental care as the mothers wrap their unclothed babies in urine-wet blankets. The pre-mature babies often weigh no more than 2-3 pounds, which is less than half a normal birth weight. One big problem with preemies is that they are unable to regulate their body temperatures. There are not any incubators in the nursery, so the babies are kept warm by using a small heater to heat the room. Often Carrie and Pam witness these tiny babies struggle to breathe. Carrie and Pam also teach the mothers (if they are there) basic hygiene and nutrition, as the mothers lack knowledge in these areas. Things such as boiling drinking water and bathing regularly is uncommon here.

In the future, as they build trust with the staff, it is their desire to present the gospel to the mothers each week. They would appreciate your prayers and support, as this ministry has many challenges. We feel that this is our responsibility, as Psalms 82:3 states "Defend the poor and fatherless, do justice to the afflicted and needy."

At this time, we would like to raise an additional 100 dollars per month for this ministry, to cover the various expenses. One time gifts are also very much appreciated. We feel this is an excellent opportunity for those wishing to be involved in overseas children's ministries, and really make a significant difference in the life of a mother and child. If you would be interested in supporting this work, please send the check to the address below, and state "Hospital Ministry" on the check to ensure that it goes to the correct account. We will keep you informed as the ministry progresses. I hope also to be able to send photos of this ministry in the future, so please pray about this opportunity as well.

God bless each of you. We will keep you informed regularly of the ministry here.

In Kenya,

Nathan and Carrie Radford