Gracious Children’s of Hope & Hope growing
As we pulled up to the doors at Gracious Hope, we were excited to learn more about Pastor Daniel’s ministry. Many of us had already heard and seen updates about the work happening there, but nothing compares to experiencing it in person. As we entered, the children came running toward us with huge smiles and exuberant, joyful noise. To have more than 125 children coming toward you, overjoyed that visitors had come to meet them, interact with them, and spend the day with them, was an experience filled with joy and hope. Their excitement reminded us how meaningful it is simply to show up, serve, and love.
Mid-morning, we had the opportunity to serve the children tea and bread. After that, we toured each classroom, where every class welcomed us with a song. Each room was filled with bright faces, eager learners, and the kind of energy that makes it easy to see how much potential these children have. We also toured the supporting rooms and learned more about the daily work that makes the ministry possible.
In the afternoon, we helped serve lunch, which included porridge, beans, bananas, and watermelon. After lunch, our group had time to discuss several details about the ministry, the children, and the future of Gracious Hope. It was encouraging to hear more about the vision, but also humbling to understand the needs and challenges that come with caring for so many children.
Later, we gathered under a nice shade tree, where each class had prepared a program for us. The children’s performances were creative, thoughtful, and delivered so well. Each class also recited Scripture, which was such a beautiful reminder that God’s Word is being planted in their hearts. Following the children’s programs, we sang music with them and shared soccer balls and other items with Pastor Daniel, who will distribute them as needed.
The Gracious Hope Center is filled with children who are eager to learn, extremely bright, respectful, and full of promise. They have a bright future, and Pastor Daniel, his wife, and their team are doing so much with so very little. It was a full and amazing day at Gracious Hope.
After our time at the center, we drove to the new piece of land that will provide room for services, pastoral learning and retreats, and more. Seeing that land helped us understand even more clearly the vision for the future and the possibilities ahead.
We left grateful, encouraged, and prayerful — thankful for Pastor Daniel and his team, thankful for the children we met, and thankful for the opportunity to witness hope growing in such a beautiful way.
Team DLTZ (2026 Stony Brook Kenya)
