September Newsletter 2026
Updated: Oct 10
Mission work doesn’t always involve Bible studies, evangelism, and church services. Sometimes, it means doing the daily grind. This first month of school brought an adjustment for the kids, but also for Michele, who homeschooled the children for more than ten years. Transporting the children to and from school allows us to play taxi and pick up other children along the way. God also fills that time with opportunities to pour into situations we otherwise might not have time for. For instance, Patrick builds relationships by helping get a tractor working. When the grass grows too high, it gives snakes a great place to thrive, and with multiple types of venomous snakes in The Gambia, keeping the grass at bay helps the whole community.
As Michele prayed about what God might add to her weekday role, a woman from the UK reached out after recently moving to The Gambia. Someone had given her Michele’s number, saying she could help her settle into life and culture here. She spent her first few months in The Gambia on her own, trusting that God had sent her. Still, finding your way in a new country—especially a West African country—can be challenging. This friendship became such an encouragement to Michele, and they now meet each day for fellowship and Bible study. At the same time, Omega Church began a partnership program that pairs youth with more seasoned believers. After so much time away, both Patrick and Michele were grateful for the opportunity to rebuild relationships with young people in the church.
Our veranda couch was in desperate need of repair, so we went in search of an upholsterer. When he came by to discuss the price and timeline, he shared that he was from Liberia and practiced the Jehovah’s Witness faith. He and Michele got into quite the conversation, all while the Muslim who had introduced us listened and learned about the differences and nuances of the Christian faith and why we need Christ. What might seem like a simple task can become an opportunity for a full gospel presentation. Living in an international city, we continue to study different religions so we can better understand and engage with the many people God brings across our path.
Though sometimes, ministry looks like meeting a very practical need. Our guesthouse roofs have finally reached the end of their life. After more than twenty years of enduring the African sun, we can no longer keep up with the leaks and repairs. This February, ABWE is putting together a team to help us replace the roofs on our buildings. Maybe you’re part of the team—because many hands make light work!
Do you have roofing, carpentry, or construction skills? Maybe you can cook, chop vegetables, or simply lend a helping hand. Whatever your skills, there’s a place for you on the team! If traveling internationally isn’t possible for you, we can still have you be part of the project by helping provide financial support for those who can go. To learn more or get involved, contact the ABWE field office or Patrick. There’s a place for everyone. Please pray about how you can be part of our 2027 roofing project!
Prayers & Praises
~ Pray for Patrick’s father Bruce’s cancer treatments.
~ Pray for Alison as she settles into Gambian city life.
~ Pray for Joan Schmitz on her well-deserved furlough
~ Pray for Alyssa as she starts a new job.
~ Pray about how you can be part of our roofing project.
~ Pray for our planning for upcoming months of ministry.
In Christ,
The Reeds - Patrick, Michele, Alyssa, Danielle, and Luke
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