Stopping to RUN!

Written by Emma Larkin

At Iris Dakar, we started out the new year 2024 differently than we normally do. Instead of jumping right into our many ministry activities with our foster families, street children, and community, we chose to STOP. Our team stopped everything to seek God through a two-week spiritual retreat, recognizing that, without Him, we can do nothing. Our theme was based on Ezekiel 47, going deeper into the river of the presence of God. We had several visitors come to speak and minister to the team including the director of the Iris Guinea Conakry base, a couple from Iris White River, and other Iris alumni and friends of the ministry. We had a powerful time of worship, healing, and spiritual growth, and every member of our team was deeply touched.

Coming from a place of stopping and being in God’s presence, we were better positioned to RUN!! In a matter of just a couple of weeks, a total of six children (ages 1-4yrs) joined three of our foster families – a record for us! We praise God that these children are now safe and in loving families where they can receive the care that they need. The growth has kept us busy, but the children are adapting well, and we can already see the positive changes in their health.

He places the lonely in families, and it is a privilege and honor to be a part of it!