As our team continues to grow and disperse into different areas of ministry, we find it is important to find ways to stay connected. Unity and strong relationships are vital if we want to run our race strong to the finish line. There is an African proverb that says, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” This is a principle that Iris Dakar strives to live by.
One way we get to put this principle into practice is we gather our entire team from our various ministry locations for an all-day get-together once a month. It is a time for us to pray, worship, learn, and connect together as a whole team. Each month is a different theme, some examples being vision casting, conflict resolution, circles of friendships and intimacy, privacy and protection, and encouragements from guest speakers.
In the last meeting, we did Team-building exercises. We went outside and did a series of games that challenged our team to work together, communicate, and accomplish a common goal. After each challenge, we discussed what worked and where we could improve. It was a wonderful time of bonding and embracing each other as we recognized our strengths and weaknesses.
We were overjoyed to have our newest long-term team member join us for the first time. Sam from South Africa has been a perfect addition to our Iris Dakar team and family. She is a doctor and we are beyond blessed to have someone with her unique passion and skillset. Sam has a huge heart and has already jumped right in serving and loving on those in need. She has supported us in the street
children ministry, the project for babies in distress, volunteering at a hospital, and helping right here on base and in our village. She has been integrating well, and has been an absolute champion in learning the local language. Welcome to the family, Sam!
“Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God
provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.” 1 Peter 4:8-11