Please continue to pray for relief of the ongoing economic crisis in Malawi. Fuel is in extremely short supply, with unbelievably long queues when filling stations are supplied. People have been seen fist-fighting over their place in the line.
Other locally-grown commodities like sugar and cooking oil are not available, presumably as producers export in order to obtain much-need foreign currency. This has been going on for many months now, and has a really debilitating effect.
Please also pray for the arrival of the used engine we purchased from South Africa for our 2-Ton Mitsubishi truck which has been laid up now for many months. The engine has been delayed for several weeks – we suspect it has also been affected by the fuel shortage.
Jeff says: “As we near the end of our time here, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude for what the Lord has provided and what He has enabled us to do for Him! “
Do give thanks for all that Jeff & Cammo, and Tom & Debbie were able to accomplish during their visits to Malawi.
We now have extremely practical roller doors on our workshop & stores, improving security and greatly reducing dust. And we have a working double-cab pickup again, which we expect to provide reliable service for a few more years, God willing. We praise God, and thank them for their efforts.
Please pray for Jeff & Cammo as they start their journeys home on Monday, DV.
We were delighted to welcome Tom and Debbie Turnbull back to Malawi this month. Their visit was packed with practical work, school ministry, and encouraging gospel opportunities. They also spent valuable time with Harold, Anna, and Goodson, who continue to lead the day-to-day efforts on the ground.
School Visits: “It’s Quite Humbling to See How Little They Have”
On Thursday, the team visited two schools to distribute backpacks and classroom packs.
The first stop was a primary school where more than 1,000 children gathered in the courtyard. Tom shared a gospel message from John 3:16, and the children listened with remarkable attention. Afterwards, they filed back into their classrooms, where the team handed out backpacks.
The conditions in the school were striking. Most of the classrooms have no desks, no chairs, and no electricity. Children sit on the floor. Light enters only through open windows, and teachers write on large blackboards.
Tom wrote later:
“It’s quite humbling to see how little they have, when we enjoy so much in our culture.”
In the afternoon, the team visited a secondary school with about 250 older students. They again shared a gospel message and distributed classroom packs and senior kits. Supplies ran short, and 38 students did not receive a kit. Names were taken, and the missing supplies were purchased locally. Harold delivered them on Sunday, making sure every student received the help promised.
Tom carrying packs Tom distributing Classroom PacksDebbie distributing Classroom Packs
Roll-Up Doors: Hard Work, Long Days, and a Torchlit Finish
Much of Tom and Debbie’s time was spent installing the new roll-up doors for the storage buildings at Saidi.
Some sections of the existing wall construction needed to be cut away and replaced with strong concrete so the doors could be anchored properly. Tom carried the main responsibility for the installation, with Debbie working alongside him every step of the way. Jeff, Cammo, and Stephen helped when needed—especially when extra hands or muscle were required.
The work stretched across several days. The final bolts went in at 8:00 p.m. on Sunday night, with torches lighting the site. It was a tough job, but the doors are now securely in place and ready for years of service.
Tom is already planning for next year. Lord willing, he hopes to send another container to Malawi mid-2026. His goals include:
10,000 classroom packs
A 50% increase in senior kits
More street soccer balls, which brought huge smiles this year
Last year’s shipment included these durable balls, and they were a blessing everywhere they went—especially in the schools and prison. Many children normally use footballs made from rolled-up grocery bags tied with rubber bands, so receiving a real ball is a moment of pure joy.
“We Trust the Gospel Will Bring True Spiritual Blessing”
As always, the deepest encouragement comes from sharing the gospel. Tom wrote that he prays the messages, Scriptures, and literature distributed during the week will lead many to true spiritual blessing.
He ended his update with heartfelt thanks:
“There is great need there, but we have a great God who is able. Thanks again for all of your support, and please continue to pray for the ongoing work. Please especially pray for Anna, Harold, and Goodson who lead all of the day-to-day efforts in Malawi.”
We thank Tom and Debbie for their dedication, their hard work, and their love for the people of Malawi. Please pray for them as they begin preparations for next year’s shipment, and continue to pray for the ongoing gospel work across the country.
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” — Matthew 28:19–20
Distributing packs at KalimbukaTom shared a word on Lord’s DayIt was a tight squeeze as they left for the airport
Over the past three weeks, our team and vistors have been privileged to witness, serve, and connect with communities in Malawi. Here’s a look back at the journey, the challenges faced, and the blessings experienced.
Arrival and Early Outreach
The journey began on October 22nd, with Stephen arriving ahead of the main group. The following day, Tom & Debbie Turnbull (USA) and Samuel Adams & John Moore (Revival Movement, N. Ireland) joined, setting the stage for a busy and impactful visit.
Tom & Debbie and Samuel & John arriveWe were warmly received at Anna’sClassroom packs are a big hitPrison VisitJohn & Samuel doing inventory checkSamuel interviews Harold
School and Prison Visits
Our first major outreach was a visit to Kalimbuka School, distributing classroom packs and presenting the Gospel. The response from students and staff was heartwarming.
That same day, we visited Bvumbwe Prison. We distributed prison packs to over 300 inmates, many of whom showed signs of malnutrition and discouragement. The simple gift of two soccer balls brought visible joy, and it was humbling to hear the prison chaplain recall messages from our previous visit in August 2023. The Gospel was shared, offering hope in difficult circumstances.
Later, a team lunch at Game Haven Lodge provided a valuable opportunity to network with Revival Movement representatives and discuss future literature needs.
Saturday saw us at Thondwe market for open-air outreach, followed by a traditional lunch at Saidi. Revival Movement guests met local Literature Distributors, strengthening partnerships for future ministry.
Sharing with kids @ Thondwe MarketSat afternoon Children’s clubSaidi assembly
Fellowship and Exploration
Sunday was a day of spiritual refreshment, with the Lord’s Supper at Saidi and a scenic lunch on Zomba Mountain—the only chance for our guests to experience Malawi’s beautiful landscape.
On Monday, as Samuel and John departed, new arrivals Jeff Gratias (Oregon) and Cammo McCrindle (Seattle) joined the team. They immediately set to work on a challenging project: swapping the engine between two Isuzu vehicles.
Progress and Practical Challenges
The following days were filled with practical tasks. Tom & Debbie began erecting rack shelving sent from the USA, while the long-awaited roller shutter doors arrived—an answer to prayer. Meetings with contractors advanced the dormitory project, and school visits to Namaka Primary & Secondary Schools allowed us to share the Gospel and classroom packs with over 1,500 children. The joy among the students was palpable.
Meanwhile, the team faced the realities of working in Malawi: unreliable building materials, a lack of basic tools, and the need to adapt to “Africa-square, Africa-plumb, and Africa-level” standards. Yet, perseverance paid off, and by November 3rd, the doors were installed and operational.
Assembling Rack ShelvingJeff’s home for 3 weeksShopping for spares (lunch!!) in Blantyre
Literature Distribution and Vehicle Projects
During the visitors’ time in Malawi the first part of a consignment of one million tracts arrived from the printer in Lilongwe. This will greatly support ongoing outreach efforts as we await a further major re-stock courtesy of Revival Movement.
Vehicle maintenance continued, with Jeff & Cammo making significant progress, including an axle swap and getting the Isuzu pickup back on the road. The arrival of a new cement mixer was another boost for the dormitory construction.
Unloading TractsThe doors are installedAs Stephen departs
Farewells and Final Reflections
As Tom & Debbie departed, work began on compacting the dormitory floor foundation. Anna left for NYB training sessions, leaving Stephen, Jeff, and Cammo to manage at Anna’s house until her return.
Fuel shortages meant some sacrifices—like skipping lunch in Zomba to conserve diesel—but the team adapted. After Stephen’s departure, Jeff & Cammo took a brief break to explore Lake Malawi and enjoy a safari in Liwonde National Park before returning to Saidi to finish up vehicle projects.
As the visit drew to a close, the sense of accomplishment was matched by gratitude—for new friendships, successful projects, and the opportunity to serve. The team’s efforts have left a lasting impact, and we look forward to building on these foundations in the months ahead.
We’re excited to share the latest developments on our dormitory construction project—a journey made possible by the generosity of our donors and the dedication of our team on the ground.
Laying the Foundations for Change
This summer, our team began the groundwork for the new dormitory. While initial site preparation required extra levelling due to a misunderstanding with the architect, the issue was quickly resolved, allowing us to move forward. Despite delays in cement delivery caused by fuel shortages, we adapted by sourcing an alternative transporter and restocking supplies, ensuring the project stayed on track.
Milestones Achieved
Foundations Complete: The foundations for the Ablutions block and dormitory wings are finished. Stephen checked all levels checked and found them to be within excellent tolerances.
Concrete Work: The concrete floor slab for the Ablutions block was poured ahead of schedule. Backfill operations for the first Dormitory wing are progressing well.
Supervision & Cost Control: Goodson continues to provide excellent supervision and cost control, ensuring every stage of the build meets our standards and budget.
Looking Ahead
Brickwork: Construction on the Ablutions block and West Dormitory is set to begin on schedule, with key milestones targeted for January.
Conference Readiness: Our focus is on completing the Ablutions block and West Dormitory in time for the May 2026 conference, with further work on the East Dormitory and Common Hall planned post-event.
Overcoming Challenges
Early rains have helped with compaction and will help concrete curing, but we remain vigilant as weather could impact the schedule. Water for construction will soon be supplied by a temporary pumping solution, replacing manual carrying. We’ve also invested in a new diesel-operated concrete mixer, allowing two teams to work simultaneously and providing resilience against fuel shortages. (One mixer is petrol-operated, the other diesel.)
Although we incurred unplanned expenditure with the site leveling, we have managed to mitigate some costs by negotiating good exchange rates for funds brought into the country.
Site levelling Delayed usGoodson checking levelsStocking up on CementRain stopped playProvision of Temporary Water Solution
Partnerships & Quality Improvements
A “chance” meeting with a Blantyre businessman has opened doors to reliable suppliers for steel and roofing materials in South Africa, promising improved quality at lower cost.
Timeline & Completion
With a detailed building schedule in place, we are confident that—barring unforeseen delays—completion by the end of March is realistic, allowing a month for internal finishing before the conference.
Thank you for your continued prayerful and practical support. This brings us closer to providing safe, high-quality accommodation for our conference activities. We look forward to sharing more updates as we progress!
Please EARNESTLY pray concerning the arrival of a shipment of 3 Roller Doors that were sent from N.Ireland 7 months ago but have not quite reached Saidi yet.
Tom plans to help install this during his time in Malawi, but the information last week was that they are still in Customs in Lilongwe. Please pray that they will clear customs very imminently and be with us in time for Tom to complete this project.
Anna writes: “Please pray for the safe arrival of the visitors. Pray they would be blessed by their time here.”
Note: Stephen will travel Tuesday / Wednesday. Samuel & John, Tom & Debbie, and Jeff and Cameron will all travel at difference times over the following days. Pray that the Lord will grant safe and trouble-free travel, as well as a profitable time in Malawi.
Anna writes: “We are thankful to a good start to school visits. The door is wide open and the labourers are few. Please pray for more labourers!
“We are also thankful for our first Emmaus students completing their first courses. Please pray that we would truly see the power of God’s word at work in lives.”
From literature distribution to children’s classes and the start of our hostel foundations — the past month has been one of steady progress and thankful hearts across the work in Malawi.
Supplying Literature Distributors
📖 Gospel Literature: Reaching 50,000 Souls with God’s Word
Over 50,000 Gospel tracts were distributed across Malawi this month.
Each one represents a small but powerful opportunity for someone to encounter God’s Word — in villages, marketplaces, schools, and homes.
Please continue to pray that these simple printed messages will reach searching hearts and change lives for eternity.
👧 Children’s Work at Saidi
Grading children’s lessons
Classes have begun again at Saidi, with a strong group of children — both returning and new. Anna is mentoring local ladies to take a more active role in teaching this year. Investing in these women helps ensure the ministry continues to grow and multiply, rooted in the Word of God.
🏫 Schools Ministry
The schools team resumed visits this term, beginning on 2 October. Their focus is on revisiting schools already engaged to strengthen relationships and distribute new school packs. They’re also prayerfully identifying a few schools to begin Bible Clubs, laying a foundation for deeper teaching and discipleship among pupils and teachers alike.
🔒 Prison Outreach
Brother Brian visited Zomba Elderly Prison and Domasi Young Offenders Prison, supplying literature and sharing the Gospel. We’re grateful for these open doors and for the privilege of reaching those who might otherwise never hear the Good News. Pray that God’s Word will bring freedom and transformation in many hearts.
Distributing Prison PacksBuilding Hostel FoundationsThe new (to us) Cement Mixer has been a help
🧱 Buildings & Premises
Work has begun on the new hostel foundations at Saidi — an exciting milestone that marks the start of a long-prayed-for project. Progress has also continued with practical improvements around the site: cabinets installed in the printing room, and new kitchen sinks fitted in the library, guesthouse, and office. Each of these steps strengthens the infrastructure that supports all other areas of ministry.
Health & Safety Training
🧍♂️ Staff & Safety
Two new night-guards were recruited on a temporary basis to fill vacant posts, ensuring the site remains well protected. Anna also organised a Health and Safety training session for all staff, continuing our commitment to responsible management and care for our team.
🚢 Literature & Prison Hygiene Packs from Northern Ireland
We also give thanks for a major consignment of Gospel literature and Prison Hygiene Packs recently shipped from Northern Ireland. The container, prepared in partnership with Revival Movement and local assemblies, carries millions of Gospel tracts, calendars, and other evangelistic materials — together with hygiene packs for use in Malawi’s prisons. These will soon be distributed through our team and volunteers, meeting both spiritual and practical needs among some of the most forgotten people in society. We’re deeply grateful to all who helped pack, pray, and provide for this shipment — every box is a testimony of God’s love in action.
🙏 A Word of Thanks
As we look ahead to the rest of October, we’re especially grateful for God’s provision — in people, resources, and opportunities. Please continue to pray for the work at Saidi and across Malawi, that every activity will serve the greater purpose of making Christ known.
“Unless the Lord builds the house, they labour in vain that build it.” — Psalm 127:1
🕊️ Thank you for praying, giving, and standing with us. Your partnership helps us enlighten, encourage, and empower communities across Southern Africa.
Join with us in giving thanks that we were able to begin visiting schools again, as of today. We thank the believers who contributed to the school packs. They were received with much excitement and jubilation today. Pray God’s word will be received as well.
Note: Resumption of School visits was delayed due to last month’s Presidential election. We are grateful that, although there was much concern about the possibility of violence, the election passed off peacefully, although various aspects of the work to continue.
Please contact us if you are interested in learning more about helping with Classroom packs.
