"Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?” (Isaiah 43:19)
When we step into a new year, we often set goals, make resolutions, and look forward with anticipation. Yet, sometimes, we also carry uncertainties or fears of the unknown. In Isaiah 43:19, God reminds us that He is at work, creating new paths, leading us, and showing us new opportunities, even in the most unexpected places and even when we don't see the whole picture.
God led the Israelites through the desert to the Promised Land, through some impossible situations. Missionaries often face uncertainties and challenges. The path may sometimes feel like walking through the desert—navigating cultural differences, facing resource challenges, or experiencing personal and spiritual fatigue. But God promises to make a way to sustain and equip us for the work He has called us to.
As we move forward into 2025, let us trust in God's guidance and His plans, even when they differ from our own. May we be a blessing to others, showing God's love, mercy, and compassion in the lives of those around us, going forward in faith, and trusting in His faithfulness to lead us through every season. Rather than let our resolutions or goals overwhelm us, we can set some sweet intentions and take each day as it comes. May our goals and intentions reflect God's will.
UPDATES FROM THE FIELD
THE GOSPEL GOES FORTH…
This year's first quarter has been filled with a flurry of activities across the region. In January, our Africa field office hosted the third in-person intensive class for the Concordia Seminary St. Louis (CSL) online master's program. Dr. Benjamin Haupt led the class on Law and Gospel. This year, the program coordinator, Rev David Erber, attended and had the opportunity to be a part of the discussions and fellowship with the students. They will be working on their master's theses. Upon completing the program, these pastors can carry the Gospel forth more profoundly, training new pastors to build the Church.
As the churches across Africa continue to grow, there is a need for teaching and training pastors and evangelists. Dedicated pastors from the LCMS have been instrumental in strengthening relationships and equipping the local Lutheran churches. So far this year, we have had theological educators teaching in Liberia, Uganda, South Africa, and Tanzania.
I attended the dedication of The Chapel of the Cross at Neema Lutheran College (NLC) – Matongo in February. The new chapel brings to life a vision originally held by Archbishop Emeritus Walter Obare of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya (ELCK) and was carried forward by many others. Faculty and staff of NLC, bishops and pastors of the ELCK, community and congregation members, government officials, mission partners, and other distinguished guests gathered to celebrate this significant milestone. “The chapel shows the life of the church,” said Archbishop Joseph Ochola (ELCK).
We hosted a team from Brookfield Lutheran Church, Wisconsin, to Matema in southern Tanzania. Partnering with the bishop and pastors of the Lutheran Church in East Africa’s (LCEA) Southern Highland Diocese, they led a youth conference for nearly 200 participants. The conference centered on the Sacrament of Baptism and the Ten Commandments. Each day began with vibrant praise as youth choirs from various congregations shared songs, filling the space with joy and dancing. This was followed by topic introductions and engaging small group discussions. The youth participated enthusiastically, asking many thoughtful questions. We pray that these teachings will take root in their hearts and be shared throughout their congregations and communities.
WE HAVE A PROBLEM - A GOOD PROBLEM!
Lutheran churches across Africa are growing, and church leaders we work with in 25 countries across the region are urgently requesting LCMS missionaries to serve alongside them. Our Africa Team needs more missionaries to expand our impact! Missionary service in Africa is challenging and requires solid Lutherans who are physically, mentally, and spiritually strong. They must have resilient relationships, thrive under stress, and work independently and as a team. They must be flexible and mission-driven. Many of these capable individuals are in LCMS congregations today—maybe you're one of them. The harvest is plentiful, but the workers are few. The church needs missionaries from all walks of life to serve around the world.
Thank you for being part of this journey with us as we serve the Lord in Africa.
or you can send gifts to: The lutheran church--missouri synod P.o. Box 66861 st. louis, MO 63166-6861
OR
Or you can send gifts to: Mission Central 40718 Highway E-16 Mapleton, IA 51034; give online at https://missioncentral.us/missions/all-missionaries/ then click on Shara & Michael Osiro; Or text the keyword LCMSOSIRO to the number 41-444
prayers & praise
- Pray for God's strength and guidance as Michael and I serve in Africa.
- Pray for the Alliance & LCMS missionaries serving through LCMS International Mission.
- Pray for the Lord to call new missionaries to serve in Africa.
- Praise God for team from Brookfield Lutheran Church.
- Praise God for all of YOU and the love & support that you give to me and Michael.
Contact Information: P. O. Box 22, Karen, 00502 - Kenya / Email: shara.osiro@lcms.org