Blessed to Be Back

by Schylie LaBelle

I was very blessed to visit CFI for the second time this February, after visiting for the first time in November 2023. The time spent with the boys and staff was both fun and encouraging. I led devotions for the boys and staff several times over the week I was there. During the children’s meal times, I and the others on my team helped to serve the food. It was a joy to give the staff a break and see all the smiling faces of the boys. I also got to sit in on a few primary classes and watch the boys work on their school. 

After school, I was able to go outside and play with the boys until dinnertime. Though the language barrier made conversation difficult, I found ways to play with the boys that required little to no English: thumb wars, arm wrestling, clapping games, and the American game ‘Bubblegum Bubblegum in a Dish.’ The boys also taught me a game called ‘January February.’ I also watched them play sports and attempted to join them in a game of volleyball. 

The boys were always kind and patient with me as I tried to remember their names. They included me, made me feel welcome, and were very respectful. I felt that I had made true friends with these boys and was blessed by their kindness to me.

The staff were a blessing to meet. Their love for the boys is obvious and it was a joy to encourage them in their work. They were hospitable and generous in every way. 

Throughout the week, Philip took our team to visit local friends of CFI, previous Directors, and another orphanage—Boys and Girls Christian Home. We also visited Grace Bible College and did some sightseeing. 

The trip was memorable and blessed me in so many ways. I look forward to visiting again—Lord willing! It was wonderful to see this ministry up close and find ways to pray more intentionally. God is doing wonderful work through the ministry of CFI!