Shadrack has been part of Embrace since the very beginning, even before our doors officially opened. We started working with him during the early outreach days, spreading the word about the center. We’ve prayed over his case for many years, and now, after three long years, we have finally seen a breakthrough. Shadrack raised on the streets, with both of his parents still living that life. It has been incredibly difficult to get answers from his mother and father, as they’ve lost contact with their families and relatives. For years, we tried tracing any family member who might be willing to take him in, but it seemed hopeless. Even sending him to boarding school didn’t work out as we had hoped. Then, at last, we received a contact through his grandfather, leading us to a potential connection with his grandmother. This week, Shadrack was placed in her care, and by God’s grace, it was a perfect fit—he felt at home right away. His grandmother was not only willing but shocked that so many years had passed without her knowing about Shadrack’s situation. This is truly an answered prayer, and we continue to believe in more breakthroughs for the boys in our care. God remembers each one, and He has a plan for every boy’s life!
Baptism
There was so much joy as we witnessed four of our boys—Courtney, Joseph, Kazilege, and Francis—experience a profound transformation and open their hearts to the gospel’s truth. After going through baptism classes this July, they decided to publicly declare their faith by being baptized.
The journey began with discipleship classes, paired with one-on-one mentorship. Over time, Christ has worked deeply in their hearts, transforming them from their old ways of living to a new understanding, purpose, and hope. It’s been incredible to see the change in their lives as they moved from brokenness and despair to a life centered on Christ. Each of these boys carries a story of struggle and pain—stories that are often difficult to hear. Yet, through God’s grace, He has brought them out of their pasts and into a future filled with hope. Their decision to follow Christ and live for Him forever is a testimony to the power of faith, love, and healing. Now, these boys not only pray for their own continued growth but also their families—that their loved ones will also come to know Christ and experience the same life-changing transformation. We praise the Lord for this incredible milestone and for the new hope and purpose He has given them!
VBS
A local church in our neighborhood graciously invited our boys to participate in a week-long Vacation Bible School (VBS), and it was an unforgettable experience for them. Throughout the week, they were fully engaged in Bible lessons that explored the book of Judges, learning about faith, courage, and God’s guidance. The program also included team-building games, scripture memorization, and a variety of fun activities that kept the boys excited and involved. We are truly grateful for this opportunity and are thrilled to be building stronger connections with churches in our neighborhood. These partnerships are a blessing to our boys and to our mission!
Challenges
In September, Embrace faced a significant challenge when a group of 15 boys expressed a desire to leave the program. This situation arose after we rescued three new boys who began influencing others, painting life outside as more appealing. Even boys who had been with Embrace for a long time were swayed, feeling the pull of peer pressure and the perceived freedom of street life.
In response, we quickly organized an impromptu group discussion, followed by breakout prayer sessions in small groups. Despite our efforts, five boys remained determined to leave, and we ultimately released them.
While it was a difficult moment, we continue to trust that the seeds planted in their hearts will bear fruit in time, and we pray for their safety and eventual return.
Boys Reintegrated
We praise the Lord for the successful reintegration of Morgan, Stanley, Gyan, and Stephen back into their families! It’s always a joy to see the boys reunited with their families.
Additionally, Andrew, who we had placed with his family last year, unfortunately ran away after stealing money from his grandmother to travel to Nairobi. Thankfully, he found his way back to Embrace. We took the opportunity to walk him through his actions, offering guidance and support. By God’s grace, we facilitated reconciliation between Andrew and his grandmother, and he is now happily back home.
We continue to pray for strength and growth for the boys who have already been reintegrated with their families. When they face challenges at home, we hope they will seek Christ for guidance and find comfort in Him.
Surgery for Stephen
Stephen was rescued with a leg deformity resulting from a car accident that occurred months before he came to Embrace. Due to a lack of resources, he was unable to receive the medical attention he needed, which caused his leg to become increasingly deformed, making it difficult for him to walk properly. We praise God for providing a way for Stephen to undergo surgery to correct his leg at a mission hospital here in Nairobi. We are grateful to report that the operation was a success, and Stephen is now on the path to healing. His journey is a testament to God’s provision and care, and we are excited to see how this will positively impact his life moving forward.
Career Day
Discussing careers with our boys is essential, as it helps them become aware of various career options, make informed educational choices, and set meaningful future goals. Recently, we had professionals from diverse fields come to speak with the boys about their careers, aiming to ignite interest and inspire them. The event was a great success, and the boys truly enjoyed hearing about the possibilities that lie ahead. It was wonderful to see their excitement and curiosity grow as they envisioned their own futures.
We thank God for each of our faithful prayer and financial partners who are taking part in what God is doing here to impact lives through Embrace.
Other Blogs
VOL 6 – ISSUE 3
July 4, 2024
Dear Embrace partners, we are excited to share with you our latest ministryupdates and prayer requests. Life at the Center Our boys have opportunities to try a variety of new experiences during their stay at Embrace. To encourage academic development, we organized a Spelling Bee for the first time at Embrace where boys practiced spelling […]
Reunion Camp For the first time in Embrace history, Kenyan Embrace staff, in partnership with a team ofvolunteers from Canada, organized and conducted a reunion camp for boys and their parentsor guardians.The vision for this camp, summarized in its name, aimed to create a space forthe boys and parents to “Re-connect,” while being exposed to […]
Staff Trip Before the end of year busyness set in, our team had the opportunity to go on a staff trip and spend a few days away from Nairobi to rest, fellowship and experience new adventures. Comprising missionaries, day and night caregivers, counselors, social workers, cooks, guards, and support staff, the Embrace team encompasses a […]
Juja Park Day In August, Embrace had the opportunity to go on a small field trip. All the Children’s homes from around our area came together for a day of games and different competitions. The event brought together approximately 750 children representing 30 different children’s organizations. This was great for the boys to go and […]