A Sacred Moment
Today was one of those days you never forget—a day where the presence of God was felt in every word, every hug, every story, and every tear.
We had the incredible opportunity to share the 29:11 journey with the Christ Life Staff and volunteers. Our morning began with each Embrace Grace Africa Team Member bravely sharing their personal testimony. The room was full—pastoral staff, volunteers, and the sweet presence of the Holy Spirit. As each team member spoke from the heart about their passion for God and why they love to serve, you could feel heaven leaning in. These stories weren’t just testimonies—they were miracles in motion.
We’re continually in awe of the people God has woven into the tapestry of 29:11—from Embrace Grace and Celebrate Recovery to Alpha, 29:11 Kids, Tribe, and our faithful Sunday Serve Teams. This community is a living, breathing example of the Body of Christ working together in love and purpose.
Despite rolling power outages, Pastor Mark powerfully shared the story of how 29:11 began—our humble roots, our foundational Pillars, and the Team Values that guide us. After a short break, he led a moving session on Servant Leadership, highlighting one of our core values: We Carry Towels, Not Titles. The image of Jesus bending down to wash His disciples' feet, even knowing the cross lay ahead, reminded us of the posture we’re all called to carry—humble, wholehearted service.
Following a home-cooked, traditional Zambian lunch, we spent the afternoon with the children at Christ Life School. We shared the story of Joseph and helped them craft colorful technicolor coats out of tissue paper. The crafts were sweet, but what truly stood out was the laughter—pure, unfiltered joy echoing through the classrooms. It reminded us that joy is holy, too.
But the most powerful part of the day came in the quiet hours spent with the young women at the Girls Home. Watching our Embrace Grace team pour out love, encouragement, and compassion was deeply moving. As they made bracelets and colored together, you could see hearts softening, opening. We thought about all these girls have been through, the resilience they carry, and how far they’ve come. Our team spoke life and hope into each one of them.
Then, as Zion Rempel’s “Sacred Space” worship podcast filled the air, the atmosphere shifted. It was as if time slowed. The room became filled with peace, presence, and the unmistakable embrace of the Holy Spirit. It truly was a sacred moment—one we will carry with us long after we return home.
Team Member of the Day Spotlight:
John Casteel
"I’m so honored to be on this trip. Mark and I are the only men on the team, but I know without a doubt that I was called to be here."
Today, John reflected on the incredible ministries of Christ Life Church and the impact they’re making in their community. Hearing their stories—how they love so deeply and serve so faithfully—was both inspiring and deeply challenging.
“Later in the day, we visited the Chinda slums, where we toured the local church and school. Over 350 students were packed into small rooms, eager to learn and waiting for a meal. It was overwhelming to witness. And yet, amidst the heartbreak, there was so much hope. These children are deeply loved and cared for by people who have given their lives to serve through the love of Jesus. I got to hug the director of the facility—a man born in the very slum he now serves. Hearing his story, seeing his heart, it broke me in the best way. I’m so grateful we get to return on Thursday to serve alongside them as they care for over 700 children.”
There are no words that can fully describe today. But we know this much: when people gather with open hearts, when love is poured out without agenda, and when the name of Jesus is lifted high—something sacred happens.
And today, we were honored to stand in that sacred space.
