When Connie and I began the process of pursuing our orphanage
license, we were confident we would be embraced by the government of Ghana,
specifically the Regional Dept. of Social Welfare in Kumasi. We were wrong. Instead, we
were soundly denied! Ouch!
As the Regional Director sat across from us, our ears heard this emphatic word of denial, and the shock was written all over our faces. He then added the statement, "If you don't believe me, I will give you the name of the National Director. She will tell you the same thing." So, we took the number for the National Director, and we were on our way. We were now on the long journey to the National level for confirmation of
our denial. Undaunted and believing God, we met with the National Director. We were
again told that no orphanages or children’s homes
were being approved in Ghana. In fact, they are closing many down for legitimate reasons.
BUT! In the
same breath the director told us no, she said, “But, if you would consider taking care
of Children with Special Needs, I will approve you right now!” I gripped Connie's hand and my spirit was stirred. Where one door
was closed, our faithful God opened another! He personally spoke to us through the
Director and revealed His great plan to us! What an awesome God! We are being given the privilege of caring for children with Autism, Down syndrome, and various Physical disabilities.
At this time, we are in the process of documentation with the government and it is just a matter of time before we open. We are waiting on our heavenly Father to give us our first children, and more specifically, Children with Special Needs. It will be a full-time commitment of God's love and extra special care.
As our Pastor has told us, "Jesus never said it would be easy; but He said it would be worth it." Yes, we know it will be difficult. Yes. we know it will be a 24/7 commitment. But, watching over us, we have a God of limitless possibilities, a God of infinite love, and a God who is personally present and involved. Yes, it will be worth it!
We ask that you would please join us in prayer that God’s will would be done, and His dear children coming to live with us would find A Home, A Hope, A Future @ Step By Step Worldwide Ministries. If you are willing to help us in any way, or even be a permanent part of this great call of God, please contact us on our webpage www.stepbystepworldwide.org or on our Facebook page at "Step By Step Worldwide Ministries - A Home, A Hope, A Future." - Papa John
