LETTER FROM TED LAWLER, FOUNDER/PRESIDENT

Ted Lawler - April 8th 2020

It's been some time since I have given an update on the Children’s Village. Many have asked me how things are going at the Village especially with the Coronavirus. So, I am sharing with you the current status of things in Zambia, action taken by the government to contain the virus, action we have taken at the Village and some prayer needs as well.

On March 17th, I received the following email from our Country Director, Yanila Luhanga Mukape: "In order to minimize the spread of COVID-19, the Government of the Republic of Zambia has issued a directive that all schools should be closed by Friday, March 20th.” In addition, our Village Director, Amos Chipasi, informed me that there would be staff rescheduling with some of the Village staff taking leave days in order to minimize the number of people coming and going at the Village. Next, by government directive, we had to stop our Sunday service.  In addition, our missionary couple, Robert and Erin Zaglago and their son Mak were asked by me to return to the States until the crisis was brought under control.

Within a few days of hearing about the government's directive, we found out that all the major airlines were discontinuing service. Therefore, the team that was coming in April from The Springs Church in Temecula Ca. had to cancel their trip. A few days after that, the team that was coming from Azusa Pacific University called and said that they would have to cancel their trip as well. Our children and staff at the school and Village always look forward to teams coming and visiting. So, their cancellation was a big disappointment.

In the States, we were looking forward to our annual golf tournament which is one of our two fund-raising events each year. It was going to be on May 21, 2020 at Bear Creek Country Club. But, that too has been cancelled due to the Corona virus outbreak and uncertainty as to when it will be brought under control. We look forward to this event every year because it is a wonderful time of fellowship with some of our supporters and the means of substantial income for the ministry.

So, like everyone, we are praying for God's strength to see us through this time of uncertainty. What amazes me is the attitude of our Zambian brothers and sisters during this time. This is a poor third world country with over 60% of the people living in poverty. Even now, the country is experiencing a food shortage, a struggling economy, and an ongoing orphan crisis.  They don't have a stimulus package as a short-term safety net as we do. 

We have 450 students who attend our school, Breath of Heaven Academy. If it does not reopen by May, our teachers could be without income. If our sponsors lose their jobs, some may stop giving. These are real concerns. But you know what their response is, "Abusa, (Pastor), God will take care of us. He always has. He will make a way. He will provide. We are praying for you and the people in the United States."  Difficulty, hardship, and trials strengthen their faith! Their response drives me to my knees as a reminder that this is His ministry. It is what He has raised up. He has everything under control. The words of a beautiful song they love to sing during worship fills my heart with faith:

Way maker, Miracle worker, 

Promise keeper, 

Light in the darkness, My God, that is who You are!

Whenever the staff and children come together to pray, whether at chapel or during their devotional and private times, you are always in their prayers. They are prayer warriors. I am asking that you will pray for them. There is so much suffering and hardship many go through. Pray for God's mercy and grace. Pray that this pandemic does not hit them hard. That it ends quickly. Pray for His protection and provision. Pray that none of our staff or children come down with the virus. And, please, pray the same for our sponsors. 

We love you, and with you we keep our eyes upon Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. 

To Him be all the glory.

By His Grace,

Ted Lawler,

Founder/President

Breath of Heaven Children's Ministries