Saturday, July 5, 2008

Assignment Maseno

Women Who Love Too Much is the title of a pop-psych book that was published several years ago. I didn't believe then that it was possible to love too much, and I don't believe it now. God asks us to love unconditionally; God's own unconditional love for us is the reason we can -- and must -- continue to try to do the same.

We have all been invited to love some more. The Episcopal Church has commissioned me to return to Kenya to work as your missionary and their nurse with Dr. Gerry Hardison at Maseno Hospital in the fall of 2008. It is an unexpected privilege and an amazing gift.

It is also a significant effort -- for my cherished family, friends, parish, diocese and employers, as well. I ask, and I am grateful to, every one of you for your support. It will not be easy to be away from you all, nor to leave "the best job I have ever had." It is a genuine leap of faith; I ask for your love and understanding, as well as your support.

Isaiah 6:8 reads: "Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, 'Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?' And I said, 'Here am I. Send me.'" God's call is clear, and it became clearer still when Kenya erupted into violence last winter, gravely affecting the lives of people there whose stories you have read here. The poor really have gotten poorer, the sick really have gotten sicker, and together we really can make a difference.

I invite you to join me in serving the people of Maseno in word and in deed. Please pray for our mission, and please help me return. The Episcopal Church has 70 missionaries throughout the world. We are provided with medical insurance, but the rest is up to each of us -- and, frankly, to all of us. Please see the Donation Information at left.


With your help and God's grace, I will be living and working in a region where HIV/AIDS, malaria and poverty have wiped out an entire generation. The children of Maseno must not be forgotten. Your donations are needed and most thankfully accepted.