We Have Arrived in Zambia! 🇿🇲
After more than 30 hours of travel, we finally touched down in Lusaka, Zambia — exhausted but full of anticipation. What an incredible welcome we received! Pastor Malinga, the lead pastor of Christ Life Church, personally met us at the airport. In the middle of his busy ministry schedule, his decision to be there in person spoke volumes about his servant-hearted leadership. What a powerful first impression of the heart and humility this church embodies.
After some much-needed rest, we jumped into our first Sunday in Zambia — and what a morning it was. Worshiping alongside our Zambian brothers and sisters at Christ Life Church was nothing short of unforgettable. Pastor Malinga delivered a passionate message about deepening our love for the Lord, weaving in his own testimony in a way that left us humbled and inspired. Hearing the origin story of the church and seeing firsthand what God is doing in this thriving local body gave us even more appreciation for the mission we’re a part of.
During the second service, our team split into two groups, and Pastor Cheyenne led a vibrant, joy-filled kids’ service. It was an absolute blast sharing the kind of energy and love our children’s volunteers bring every weekend at 29:11 Church! We taught kids from kindergarten through junior high about God’s strength, using the story of David and Goliath. And yes — we even built a life-sized “strong man” out of balloons! It was chaos in the best way — full of laughter, energy, and unforgettable moments of connection.
But the highlight of the day came in the afternoon.
We had the privilege of visiting the Girls Home on the church campus — a safe haven for young women, ages 12 to 20, many of whom have experienced trafficking or abuse. Each of these brave young women lives with a “house mother” and is on a journey of healing and restoration. Hearing their stories was profoundly moving. Their resilience, courage, and faith left a deep imprint on every member of our Embrace Grace team. It was more than a visit — it was a divine encounter.
The experience also stirred our hearts even more for the vision of Hope House — our dream to open a home for vulnerable young women in the Tempe area. We are praying boldly this week for God to literally drop a house into our laps. We believe the same God moving in Zambia is moving at home too — and we’re ready to say “yes” to the call.
Meet Our Embrace Grace Africa Team Member of the Day: Kim Harris
“Today was AMAZING! After a 32-hour travel ‘day,’ I already have a heart full of memories — from sweet conversations with flight attendants to chatting with Italian students on their way to Zambia for a soccer scholarship, and connecting with others on similar missions. I’m soaking it all in — learning local greetings, smiling with everyone I meet, worshiping at Christ Life Church, and reminding every person I encounter that their story matters and God loves them outrageously!”
What a powerful first day of ministry — from joyful church services to heart-shifting moments at the Girls Home. We are so grateful to be here, and can’t wait to see what else God has in store this week.
