A Night of Hope

On March 29 at Beacon Church Millbourne, our community gathered for a beautiful experience—an event called Through Their Eyes. This was more than just an evening together; it was an immersive journey into the lives of children and families in the DRC through the lens of hope in Jesus.

As guests arrived, they were warmly welcomed by children from our church, ushering them into a powerful introduction—a personalized video message from a key leader at Hands at Work Africa, an organization we partner with. Mama Angel’s words reminded us of our connection to the work being done to support vulnerable children and families in Africa.

From there, the journey continued into the gym, transformed into an interactive space with three experiential stations, each led by children from our congregation. The first was a school station, where attendees got a taste of learning in the DRC by practicing Swahili and French. Next was the water-hauling station, where guests carried heavy jugs across the room, gaining a glimpse into the daily struggle of collecting clean water. The final station was the broom station, where participants used handmade African grass brooms to sweep—just as children and adults do in communities where dirt floors and yards are commonplace. 

A big part of the evening was sharing a simple meal together—beans, rice, and bananas—emphasizing the deep value of community in the DRC. Sitting side by side, we were reminded that true fellowship transcends distance and culture.  During our meal Katie shared with us the good news of Jesus and his resurrection power of the cross through the eyes of our brothers and sisters in Africa.  

The evening then turned to the heart of the event—a dramatization of a Holy Home Visit, the story of Papa Gaston. This true story, set in Toyota, brought to life the transformational power of Jesus. We watched as a care worker named Mama Safi visited Papa Gaston, a blind man struggling to care for his children. Through her love, compassion, and the gospel message, Papa Gaston found hope. His children were welcomed into the care point, and their family began attending church—an incredible testament to God’s faithfulness and the impact of the local church.

Following this moving portrayal, we took communion together, remembering that the same Jesus who brought hope to Papa Gaston is the one who brings hope to us. In small groups, we reflected on what we had seen and discussed our role in bringing hope to the vulnerable in our own community.

The night was powerful. It was challenging. It was deeply encouraging. Through worship, storytelling, and hands-on experiences, we didn’t just hear about life in Toyota—we saw it through their eyes. And as we left that evening, we carried with us the undeniable truth that we, too, can make a difference. Whether in the DRC or right here at home, Jesus calls us to be bearers of His hope.

May we continue to step into that calling during this lent season leading up to Easter with open hearts and willing hands.