2 Walking Miracles!

In our recent visits to check on our Chips patients, we were amazed to see Vusile and Thembi both walking! 

Vusile is doing amazingly well. He is actually talking and has about 60 words in his vocabulary. Not only that, but believe this miracle, Vusile is walking!! Vusile's father's “new wife “ has done a lot of work with him and this is such an answer to prayer. When we were there, Vusile wanted to go for a ride in the car. Unfortunately on that trip Vusile didn't get to ride as we were on a tight schedule, but hopefully we can get back over to Maphiveni and take him for a ride soon. 

When we visited Thembile in Khomba, we were amazed to see her walking without any aid. She was showing us how well she could walk and was saying 'Look at me, Jesus! I can walk!', giving all the credit to Jesus for her healing.  Thembile has been on ARV's since 2008 and had a stroke in 2009. When we first met her last year, she was bedridden and unable to do anything for herself. The last time we saw her was six months ago and she was able to sit up in a chair.  It is amazing she has come so far in 18 months!

We give God all the glory for these two miracles and thank Him for His mighty power at work in the lives of the people here in Swaziland. 

 P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org

Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Khisimusi Lomule (Happy Christmas)!

We're wishing all our ministry partners a wonderful blessed Christmas and we want thank you for making a special Christmas for the people here. Through your generous gifts we can buy extra food, new baby clothes and provide a school sponsorship. Thank you for your hearts for the least of these. Khisimusi Lomule, love Ian and Jenn!
P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org

Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Shortage of chemicals: hospitals refuse to test blood samples

The hospital and clinics have been refusing to retest follow-up blood samples from our patients. There is just no funding throughout the country to purchase the reagents (chemicals) used to analyze the samples which leaves us in a very serious predicament.

Once one of our patients has tested positive for HIV, their CD4 (white blood cell) count is measured and has to be below a certain level before they can get the free ARV treatments from the government. If the CD4 count is higher than the threshold, then the patient is retested in a couple months to see what their count is. Also, once a patient has been initiated on ARV's, retesting is done periodically to determine the effectiveness of the treatments.

Without the ability to send in the blood samples to be tested, we aren't able to get our patients initiated on life saving ARV's in a timely fashion (if at all) which means that the HIV virus will continue to multiply and spread throughout the body eventually turning into AIDS. We have seen more and more people in the communities come forward, willing to find out their status and get initiated onto ARV's if tested positive. Now we can no longer provide the testing, unless there is funding in place to provide the hospital, mainly Good Shepherd Hospital (GSH), with the necessary supply of reagents.

This shortage concerns us greatly, especially considering the children (HIV+) who tend to get sick more quickly and often fatally without being on ARV's. It would cost about $1,500 per month to supply Good Shepherd with enough reagents and Daran and Teresa, Chips Directors, are raising money to give to GSH.

Can you pray with us, first and foremost, that God would provide all the supplies/monies needed for this urgent and on-going need. Also, if you are interested in helping financially with this need please contact us at piggwr4647[at]aol[dot]com and we will direct you to Daran and Teresa. We know that God cares deeply for  the poor and the needy and know that He can do things that are impossible in our eyes.


P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Sundresses, Shirts and Shorts

We received a large donation of sundresses, shirts and shorts. The girls all loved their pretty dresses and the guys were thrilled to get the shorts and shirts. For some children, this was the first new item of clothing that they have received.  Every donation that we get, makes such a big difference in the lives of the recipients, even if it seems insignificant to the giver. Thank you for your continued support and generous hearts as you care for the least of these.  

Don't all the kids look great? 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org

Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.

Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Baby Sihle

Bonginkosi, our former security guard, and Cebile stopped by last week with their 3 month old son, Sihle. Sihle means beauty, and isn't he beautiful!

Bonginkosi is out of work currently and living with family near Vuvulane. Please lift up Bonginkosi and his need for employment as well as his relationship with Cebile, that it would be God-centered, in your prayers. 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.

Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Christmas Gifts

Do you want to give a gift to help our ministry? Check out our Swaziland Christmas List for ideas. This is a great way for the whole family to join in the Christmas spirit and give to others. Updates will be provided on the blog regarding all the projects that receive donations and every donation is Tax Deductible as long as it's made through World Outreach.

Please don't forget to email us (piggwr4647@aol.com) telling which project you are wanting to support. We don't have the capabilities of designating the funds when you donate online, but will be thrilled to do it when you contact us! It will also be great to hear from you in this Christmas season.

Thank you and any gifts will make such an impact and be so appreciated.


P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Abandoned: Julia, 78 and very ill

Julia, 78, has been abandoned by her family. They will have nothing to do with her. 

Julia is one of our oldest Chips patient and has been on ART's (antri-retro viral treatments) for six months. Last week when we saw her, Julia was so frail and had difficulty walking and caring for herself so we determined to come back and check on her soon. 

When we went to see Julia again this week, we were shocked to see how worse the situation has gotten in the last week. She can no longer get about on her own. The house stank and the food she had was days old; maize porridge crawling with insects. It was such a bad situation and we cannot imagine what it is like for her. We prayed with her and then organized some local women to come clean. Hopefully, the rural health motivator will organize ladies to come cook for Julia. She has the food but can no longer cook for herself. Mary and Jabulani took Julia to Good Shepherd Hospital today for a check-up. We'll have to find out the results of that trip. 

Please lift up Julia in your prayers. We're praying that she would come to know the everlasting love of the Father, that the women in the village would come around Julia and really minister to her at this time, and we do lift up her physical needs as well. 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Smiles-Signs of Hope!

Through the chapel in Mbabane, we are able to get tracts in Siswati for free that we can pass out to those who are interested. 

You can see the hope that these ladies have in their lovely smiles. They have hope because of the program Chips, Children HIV Intervention Programme in Swaziland, and are able to thrive having found out their HIV status and getting the proper medical care. 

Mary had met with 70 women from all of the settlements that we serve. She asked them to write a note describing what they are thankful for. Most of the women said the same thing, that they are thankful for Chips which is saving lives and bringing hope. This has always been the vision for Chips from the start three years ago and still holds true today. We thought this was very special affirmation of how God’s hand is guiding and providing for the people who have so little. For us, it made us realize this is not about buildings and numbers but about saving lives and God will take care of the rest.

This lady has found another use for umbrella spokes, knitting needles! She enjoys knitting and making things. 

These smiling faces are one of the reasons we are here serving the beautiful people of Swaziland. Today is  World Aids Day and we want to remind you to pray that we will all see the day when there is a HIV free generation in Swaziland. Thank you from all of us, for your generous support of this ministry. 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org

Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.

Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Food parcels and Counseling

When we have a surplus of veggies from our garden or have extra funds designated for food parcels, we are able to pass out food to those Chips clients who need it the most. Having the funds to be able to purchase food and being able to give to the hungry is such a ministry that we are a part of, and will impact more and more people in a huge way as the cost of maize meal is going to increase by about 44% in the coming year. That hike will hit these people very hard when they already often struggle to have food daily and maize meal is their main staple. 

Ian is passing out a food parcel to this woman. 

Please join us in praying that the funds, that we are stewards over, would be able to accommodate the basic survival needs of these precious people. If you would like to donate money designated towards food parcels, please donate at the link below (in the PS section of this post) and then email us letting us know your intentions for the donation. A basic food parcel costs about $10 USD. We're so thankful for our supporters and the heart that you have for the Swazi people and that you send us in such a way that we can daily impact their lives, even with something as basic as food for the week. 

Mary is counseling a woman who has HIV and has just become a Chips client and started on ART's. We clear up the myths and misconceptions about HIV/AIDS, emphasize the importance of taking ART's regularly  and consistently, and that the key to living a quality life with HIV is positive living (fidelity to one partner, protection, and taking care of general health etc.) 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.

Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

The twins

Constance and Nkosikhona, the 3 month old old twins from Khomba are both doing very well. Praise God! They are growing well and thriving. We tested them in the last couple of weeks and are still awaiting their results. 

Mkhulu Ian is holding Constance and Gogo Jenn is holding Nkosikhona.

Our favorite part of the work we do is getting to snuggle with the twins and love on them. Since moving here to Swaziland we've 'gained' additional kids and grandbabies. As we look into their sweet faces, we know why we have come here to Swaziland. 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
 Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Sikhumbuzo Kaumalo

Sikhumbuzo Kaumalo is 34 and a father of 3 children, living in Macetuka. When Sikhumbuzo came into the Chips program April of 201!, he was very sick and unable to provide for his family. At the beginning of May he was initiated on to HAART.

Sikhumbuzo has done very well on the treatments. Now he is stable, feels fit and is in good health. This proud father is eagerly seeking employment to provide for his growing family. Please pray that Sikhumbuzo will continue to regain his health and will find a steady job that will provide for the needs of his family.

Thank you for supporting Chips and people like Sikhumbuzo!

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Is it a swing or a smile?

What's made from an old tire and hangs in the tree? 

A Tire Swing! 

Often the simplest things bring great joy and big smiles to these kids. Looks like Mkhulu Ian is having lots of fun too! 

What is something simple in your life that brings you joy like this? We'd like to hear what makes you smile through your comments. When we think of you and your generous support, it brings a smile to our face, Thanks! 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

A Reminder to be Thankful

We had good bible study this last week. Dr. Bongi who does not usually say a lot made a plea to the Swazis in the group to become responsible, work hard and then we can send missionaries to America where they are so badly needed. 

God put us here for a reason. The people in the local communities are asking are we really leaving (for the UK and USA in March) and why. They want to know about Chips and mainly if we are coming back. We don’t normally think about that through God we do make an impact on the lives of the people we serve in the village and surrounding communities on a daily basis. Often we get caught up in the busyness of life and we don’t stop just to thank God for the blessing of serving Him here and how He is using us. 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Getting back into the swing of things

It has been a busy week! We have a lot of new patients starting on ARV's so first we do a lot of pre-counsel about positive living and explaining HIV. Then after they start medication, we go back to check on how they are doing and to count the pills to make sure they are taking them.  For the first time in about six months we had a baby tested positive for HIV. This baby has just come into the Chips program and the parents and other siblings are also positive. We will need to give the family a lot of counseling especially about mother to child transmission.  We have been blessed this last six months; all the babies born to moms in the program have tested negative for HIV. 

Other news from the three ring circus that we call home, that awaited us upon our return,. Sifiso got a bad burn on his leg and fortunately it is healing. Nchlachla has been having a hard time dealing with his brother's death and is very anxious about his son's surgery. We were able to pray with Nchlachla and that seemed to help. Please continue to pray for him as he faces his son's surgery, for peace, that the surgery would go well with no complications, healing would be quick, and that God would provide the money for it. Ncomsile, the gal who cleans our house and the rural health motivator for Section 19, was all worried about the new sewing project that has been started in Section 19. Apparently it is not going well and she is having problems with money. Teresa and Jenn will have to sort out the issues that have arisen with the sewing project. 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Mission accomplished!

We were blessed to have a friend pay for our stay at the Bed and Breakfast in Mbabane. It was a nice trip, we got to visit with many people most of whom we haven't seen in quite some time. That was good to catch up with everyone. Our time at the Embassy and Government's Immigration Department went very well. We were in and out in 90 minutes which is a great time! Now we just have to return in 3 weeks to get our passports and new resident visas. Thank you so much for lifting that up in prayer!  One night was spent having an enjoyable dinner with Daran and Teresa and their family. We got to hear all the kids' plans and visit with Daran and Teresa. They filled our vehicle to the brim with clothing donations that Daran had brought back, along with medical supplies and books to pass out. That will keep us busy for a couple of weeks.

We have heard that the Brown buildings has been taken off the market for now. It would be nice to be able to purchase those buildings to expand Chips. If it is the will of God, we know that it will happen in the right timing. Please pray for us that we would have faith in what God is doing and will do, and that He will provide abundantly for this huge need to expand Chips and the resources to do so.


P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Paperwork and Visas

We came to Mbabane yesterday and will be here for a couple of days in order to get our temporary visas and paperwork completed for our trip to the UK and USA in the spring.  It will be nice to get away for a couple of days and stay in a bed and breakfast. We will see Daran and Teresa on Friday and be able to catch up with them.

Please pray that everything goes smoothly with our paperwork and visas and that we are able to complete them in one trip. Also, please pray that we would have a good time of rest and fellowship.


P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Scholarships make such a difference

January is quickly approaching, which means the start of the new school term. We would like to have the funds available to help sponsor kids who can’t afford the additional fees.  The average annual cost for one student is $200 or $17/month (though the costs increase as students get into high school). Can you help?

   Eric, who is 17 and one of the kids who received a scholarship last year, came to see us in recently. He shared how his Gogo died recently and that he is a double orphan, but that he loves Jesus and has a desire to help people. Eric would love to be involved with building homes for the elderly, providing food for orphans and widows. He has one more year of school left, but would like to transfer to another high school that has IT capabilities and then go to college to become an accountant. After he is finished with college, Eric would like to start his own business.  

   Thankfully, we had just received a notice from a faithful supporter that they had contributed enough money for two scholarships. One of these will be given to Eric so that he can finish his last year of high school.  As you can see, sponsoring a scholarship does make a huge difference in the lives of the recipients and in the lives of those that they will be able to impact upon completion of their education! 


P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Sometimes it's like a 3-ring circus

It has been a crazy last couple of weeks here in the village above and beyond the work with Chips.

Mary's father had a stroke about a month ago, physically he is doing well but mentally he is very depressed and suicidal. Mary goes to Mozambique as often as she can to care for him. Please pray that he will find the God of all comfort and joy.

A week ago Sifiso had an allergic reaction . He could not breath, his face swollen and he was grey. That resulted in a quick trip to the emergency clinic where they gave him shots and medication. He is doing a whole lot better but after I questioned him at length about what he had eaten etc. he told me raw wild honey. I told him to not to eat any more, he was very frightened. Sifiso is still trying to start up his photography business and still has chickens but now they have fleas. He is also on the lookout for a good Christian wife. Please pray for Sifiso that God will bring a godly wife and that his business ventures will prosper.

Lately Newman has been really struggling with the alcohol addiction. Last Wednesday he showed up for church and we discovered he was as drunk as a skunk.  He did not act out in church but sat right at the back away from everyone. The next day Ian talked to him and then he came to apologize to me. I told him I was upset by his behavior and my heart was sad but I forgave him. If we have any further incidents we are going to suspend him for a week and send him back to Macetuka to think through what he has done. He has shown up to work after drinking once or twice since that incident. Newman is still coming to bible study which is good. Please continue to pray that this spiritual battle would be won and that Newman would come to acknowledge Jesus as his savior and his life would be changed.

Newman's son, Colani, comes and stays with him on the weekends. Colani just turned 16 and we celebrated with chocolate cake. Colani attends church with us when he can.

Nchlachla was very quiet and upset about Newman drinking. He told me that he had forgiven Newman and Newman is the lost sheep and we needed to keep praying and supporting him.  So we prayed and cried together it was a special time for both of us. So now we go on waiting for the lost sheep to come into the fold. Nchlachla went home this weekend, his elder brother died last week and his three year old son, Bongimenzi, needs surgery. Bongimenzi  has a problem with breathing. There is a defect in his nose that needs to be corrected by surgery. The surgery will cost about $200. We will be helping with transport costs to the hospital and have arranged for Nchlachla to see a financial counselor to work out a monthly payment plan. Please pray for Nchlachla and his family during this time of grieving for his brother and for the stress of having to take Bongimenzi into surgery and the costs related to that. We are thankful for Nchlanchla's strong faith in the Lord.

We tried calling Bonginkosi but with no success.The last we heard he was in South Africa but we aren't sure where he is or how he is doing.

Other than that, we have really been enjoying the bible study on Wednesdays at our church. Chips continues to keep us busy. We have been making plans to return to England and the States in the spring. Please continue to pray for us, that we would have strength and wisdom to deal with whatever comes our way every day and that God would continue to use us to minister to those around with His love. 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Ngiyabonga (thank you) from Shandu

Shandu is living in his house.  He is still overwhelmed that people in the States would care enough to provide him with a warm dry home. Shandu's few possessions look lost in the new house but he is so happy.

Shandu  is standing in front of the old house and Jenn is standing in the door of his new place.  We all say Ngiyabonga (thank you)! Thank you for caring so much and being so generous allowing us to show Christ's love to Shandu. We pray that this outpouring of love and support will be a true example of how much God loves Shandu and provides for his every need.  

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Surprise Visit

Remember Popovdo? and his adventure the first day of school? Well, we found out that Popovdo is a mean nickname that the kids were calling him, something about a flat head, and that his real name is Fanzile Lulane. We will be calling him by his real name from now.  When our friend Charissa was visiting back in July we made a surprise visit to Fanzile's classroom to see if he was in class. He was! 

The teacher called Fanzile to the front of class as we were asking about his attendance. He stood there, grinning from ear to ear, almost embarrassed at the attention but loving every minute of it. It was obvious that he knew that he was someone special with sponsors putting him through school. 

The entire class was thrilled with the break in their studies. Ian and Charissa went around giving high five's to all the children and made them all laugh. They were also excited to see the gifts of brand new pencils and lollipops that we had brought (to be handed out at Teacher Angel's discretion). 

The arrow is pointing to Fanzile sitting proudly at his desk. Teacher Angel doesn't have much materials, resources or supplies to work with and we commend her for her love and care for these children. 

Now whenever we see Fanzile, or he sees us, he comes running over to say hi and see if we have any candy or pocket money to give to him. Fanzile has stolen our hearts and we are thankful we can make a difference in his life. 

January marks the beginning of the new school term. We are sure that there are other children just like Fanzile who are running around town without proper care and attention from family members, who are unable to afford the school fees for the children to attend school. If you would like to sponsor a child's way to go to school, the average annual cost is $200/student or $17/month/student. You can donate at www.WorldOutreach.org under our  account and then just drop us a note letting us know of your intention for the donation. 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.

Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Post updates by email?

Are you too busy to read our blog? Do you forget to swing by and see what we are up too? Now you can sign up to receive any new updates in your email!

Just to the left of the blog post, there is a couple of options for you to more easily receive our updates. The first one under the words Subscribe To will allow you to subscribe to the blog in your favorite reader.

The second one under the words Follow by Email simply requires you to enter your email address and then submit. You will then receive a confirmation email and will just need to click on the link. After that, every time that we post something, you will automatically receive the update in your inbox.

We would love to hear how you are doing and how we can pray for you. Drop us an email, leave a comment on the blog, or send us a letter!
Thanks for all your continued support!


P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

When the Lord builds a house

We are so thankful for God's provision! Not only did we receive more than enough donations to re-build a home for Mkhulu Shandu, the actual building has progressed really quickly especially in light of how long everything normally takes here in Swaziland to get done.

A beautiful new roof that fits snugly on the walls!

Shandu will have a window in his house for the very first time! 

The inside of the house looks very spacious when compared to the old house. 

We showed up at the Maphiveni care point just in time to join the children for breakfast. Jenn is trying sour porridge. Sour porridge is a basic Swazi breakfast, maize meal is soaked in water overnight and it starts to ferment and then in the morning it is cooked.  It is a very thin porridge and it was different but I (Jenn) could get used to it. The sugar did help, but I don't think I will make it on a regular basis. 

Both Nchlachla and Newman have been joining us for Bible Study on Wednesday's. Nchlachla is such a good role model for Newman and patiently explains the things of God to Newman. Newman is seriously contemplating the gospel and has expressed an interest in going to church. Please pray for Newman at this time, that his heart would be drawn to knowing the One true God and that God would completely deliver him from the addiction of alcohol. Jabulane and Mary have also expressed interest in joining us on Wednesday nights. Pretty soon we will have to load up the khombi and will be bringing half the group!

Ian and Jabulani took the khombi to Manzini this week to get it checked out and were able to pick up the Rav which had been in the shop for repairs. They returned with the Rav but had to leave the khombi for a week to get fixed! It seems like we just switch the vehicles in the shop every week.

Another ministry partner, Corrine, is providing an income opportunity for some of the ladies in Section 19. They had their first meeting on Thursday of this week and will be sewing hand bags to sell. We ask that this venture would be blessed and that it would open up many doors for the women of Section 19.

The rains have come and we will soon be planting maize. The rest of the crops are all doing well. We recently have heard from several of our ministry partners back in the States and have been blessed and encouraged by the correspondence. Living here in Vuvulane can be quite isolated at times and we struggle with feeling isolated, lonely and disconnected from those we love.

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Chips Success: Jabu Dlamini

Jabu Dlamini is 39 years old and lives in Macetuka. Jabu was tested positive in April 2010 and was in denial about her status for a while. Chips staff counseled her about the importance of starting HAART but she refused and remained in denial. In August 2010,  she became very sick with TB/Aids  and finally she was initiated on to HAART. Jabu's 1 year old son was also tested but he was negative. He was admitted to Good Shepherd hospital where he very sadly died, from malnutrition. 

Jabu has now been on HAART for year and has completed a course of medication for her TB and is clear. During the past year she had several hospitalizations and at times we were not sure if she would live. God has provided the miracle of healing. Jabu is fit, stable, in good health and providing for her children. She is hard-working, aspiring business woman who owns her own small business. Jabu obtains contracts from local farmers to weed fields and then hires women to do the work. We are thankful for God's work in Jabu's life and in her family's lives. Please pray that Jabu will continue to grow in the knowledge of the God who has given her a second chance at life. 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Three-way conversation

"Vusile, Vusile where are you Vusile?"

Vusile turned in his walker, scanning with his limited vision to catch a glimpse of those familiar voices. His face, much in need of a good scrubbing, broke into a big grin when he saw Ian and Jenn. Instantly he stretched out his hand, knowing that Ian would come and play a tickle game. 

Ian and Jenn could hardly contain their joy and excitement at seeing Vusile and it is obvious that he has a very special place in their hearts. 

Jenn gave Vusile her phone and they enjoyed a chit-chat.  

Ian got out his phone and joined the conversation. Love and happiness was shared in this three-way conversation. 

Then Ian called Jenn's phone (which was being duly monitored by Vusile). Vusile was enthralled with the musical ring tone and when it had finished, he said 'Wow'. 

As said before, Vusile's father doesn't want anything to do with Vusile. Vusile is only taken care of and fed when a new wife is on the scene, but his dad goes through many wives in a short amount of time. Both Vusile and his father are receiving ART's and are enrolled in Chips. Vusile still has a dislocated shoulder, can't walk and spends his days in this walker. He has developed quite the personality and we have come to realize that he isn't blind as we had thought when  we first introduced him to you. 

"BuBye BuBye!" Vusile shouted as we left. It has just been recently that he has started to talk. We love this 4 year old little boy and try to provide as much care and love to him as we possibly can. Please continue to pray for Vusile and that he would be able to receive the care (physical, emotional and medical) that he needs to thrive. 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.

Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

Newman: growing in health and hope

Newman would often see the Chips kombi at Macetuka and ask to be tested, but he was always drunk and we refused to do testing on him. One day in September 2010, he showed up at the testing site sober and we tested him for HIV.  The results came back that Newman was  positive. His wife had died many years ago from AIDS and he had a fourteen year old son Colani.  After the testing, Newman was counseled many times about how dangerous alcohol usage was while being on ART.  He has made significant progress since then. Newman is employed as our gardener and has a home of his own; his CD4 count is increasing and he is putting on weight. Newman continues to battle his addiction to alcohol.

Newman

Chips transports him to Good Shepherd  hospital for his refills and doctor visits.  He continues to receive counseling. At this point in time Newman refuses to attend church and talk about God but we believe with  prayer, encouragement and love that his life will continue to significantly improve. Newman has been a blessing to us and it's under his hands that our garden has produced as much surplus that it has.

Newman and Colani
Colani has been visiting Newman over the last couple of weeks since there was first a school break and then now the teachers are on strike.  We took Colani to church with us today. Both Newman and Nchlancha (our day security guard) have expressed interested in attending our church with us at some point and we continue to pray that would come about in God's timing. It has been very good to see Colani work alongside his dad and hear the laughter and friendly bantering over games coming from Newman's house. 

Nchlancha just turned 28 and went home to his homestead to celebrate with his wife and son. Sifiso is at a revivial for the weekend. It's quite without the two guys around and we are looking forward to their return. 

The foundation has been laid for Shandu's house. Please pray that everything is delivered and the construction goes along in a timely manner, without being impeded by the coming rains. 

Daran, Chips Director, is in the States raising money for the purchase of the Brown buildings. They haven't sold since Chips had to retract the initial offer. Please pray that God would provide the complete finances to purchase these buildings and to maintain/operate them after the purchase. After seeing the outpouring of support for Shandu's house, we know that God can certainly provide in the same manner in this request.

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

An overflow of generosity!

Wow! You are so generous! We have received $860 in donations for Mkhulu Shandu's new home, which is far above the amount that we needed. Thank you so much from all of us. We decided to include a window in the new home, Shandu has never had a window, and then use the remainder for the next need or project that comes along. We are excited to be talking to the contractor and ordering supplies. Pictures of his new home will be posted.

All donations above and beyond our normal support (or a specific project like this) go into a general fund in order to meet needs that arise. Some examples are sponsoring a child to go to school by paying their school fees or providing a food package to someone who has no means to get food or giving a new mum/baby package with clothes or diapers to a new mum.

Thanks again so very much! 

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org
Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.
Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.

New Home for Mkhulu Shandu

Shandu after receiving the news that we are raising money to build a new home for him

 Mkhulu Shandu, 59, was forced to quit his laborious job of a sugar cane cutter 2 years ago when he had to have a much needed hip replacement. The surgery was successful but the recovery has been slow. Shandu still walks with a limp and the assistance of a cane.

Cane cutter at work

Unable to work and not having family nearby, he is dependent on neighbors and donations from Chips for enough food to survive. Consequently he suffers from malnutrition and needs the most basic things, like batteries for his alarm clock so he knows when to take his ARV medicine. Chips also provides transportation to/from the hospital for check-ups.  

Shandu's home is approximately 9x9 shack made of sticks and mud with a tin roof. The walls have to be constantly re-patched any time it rains. There is a 6 inch gap between the roof and the walls.

 He has fenced off a small area in front of his house and keeps a couple of chickens there. 

We would like to build a concrete house for Shandu to replace the shack falling down around him. The cost of the supplies is $600 and the labor will be donated. As of now we have 50% of the money raised and would like to have the house built by the end of September before the rains come. Ian will be talking with the contractor this week. 

A concrete house similar to the one we want to build. 

When we shared our plans to raise money for a new house, tears of amazement and gratitude sprang to Shandu's eyes. He was blown away by the thought that people who live in a far-away country who don't even know him would be willing to send money for a new house.

Can you help?

If you would like to donate for Shandu's home, the quickest way would be to donate online at www.worldoutreach.org Go to Donate, Select our name from the drop down menu, Continue following the prompts to make the donation.

When you are done, please email us at piggwr4647[at]aol[dot]com and let us know you donated towards Shandu's house.  Thank you very much for your generosity from us and from Shandu himself.  

P.S. - If you want to support our ministry, the fastest way is to make an Online Donation via www.WorldOutreach.org

Go to "Donate" and select our name, Stephens, Ian and Jenn SWAZILAND. The system can process USA and International cards.

Or simply mail your gift to World Outreach Ministries, PO Box B, Marietta, GA 30061 and designate for Ian and Jenn, Fund Code #97.