Finding Purpose After Tragedy

Across Lifesong ministry sites in Zambia, beauty is rising out of ashes as tragedies of the past no longer define life. Instead, as orphans learn their immeasurable worth as children of God and beloved brothers and sisters in Christ, they are becoming well-rounded leaders with deep faith.

You provide discipleship, holistic, Gospel-centered care, quality education, and support into adulthood to the children we serve. Thank you for helping to make these profound stories of transformation possible.

—Zambia Team

*Names have been changed to protect the identities of the children we serve.

Mapenzi’s Story

Mapenzi’s* father was imprisoned when she was a young girl, leaving her without the protection and love she deserved.

When she became pregnant due to abuse, her family insisted she leave school, and her world began to collapse.  

In Mapenzi’s words —

“I was so upset, I thought of running away because my journey of getting an education had come to an end. ”

But a week later, a social worker introduced her to our team at Kharis House, a Lifesong ministry.

They shared God’s love for her and her unborn child and welcomed her into the program.

Mapenzi shares—

“After coming to Kharis House, I was the happiest I’d ever been. They received me with love and happiness, and they helped me in my education that I once thought was over.”

During her time with our team, Mapenzi received both quality education and discipleship. She became a follower of Jesus, was baptized, and is now teaching her son about God’s love. Because of her schooling, she is now able to read the Bible every day to herself and her son.

Today, she attends university where she is studying engineering. She trusts God for an abundant future, no longer defined by the tragedies of her past.

Jule’s Story

The only family Jule* can remember is our team in Zambia.  

When he was just 3 years old, his parents died. And by the age of 5, he found safety, security, and belonging at New Day, a Lifesong ministry.

But as a young boy, Jule’s fear of death was a consistent visitor. Until one day, when Jule accidentally ingested some medication for rabbits, he came face-to-face with his fear. Through the compassionate care of a staff member, God used this frightful moment to reveal his need for Jesus.

And that day, Jule was saved in more ways than one. 

He shares—

“God is my Heavenly Father. I don’t have an earthly father, so I feel like God is close to me, and I’m encouraged and don’t feel alone. I feel like He’s there for me.”

Today, Jule is a young adult, living in New Day’s independent living with his best friend, excited that he can now cook for himself.

Since he was young, Jule’s artistic abilities have blessed our campus.

He immerses himself in all kinds of art and has painted multiple murals at our ministry site.

Jule shares—

“My dream is to do architecture or design and to start my own business.”

As Jule reaches for those dreams, he is blessed with mentors he looks up to for their hard-working, faithful examples.

Maluba’s story

The first time Maluba* saw her father was at his funeral.

In her words —

“It was a moment filled with many emotions—confusion, sadness, unanswered questions—but God’s presence carried me through and kept me strong.”

Her mother then remarried, hoping to find stability and safety. But her stepfather was abusive. And again, Maluba was confused and scared.

“Our home did not feel like a refuge.”

Thankfully, her grandfather stepped in and took care of her. Though he had no consistent employment, he made many sacrifices and did piecework so Maluba could continue her education.

Still, inside, Maluba was losing hope.

She shares — “I never saw myself becoming anything. I felt stuck, bitter, and surrounded by darkness.”

Until she was introduced to Lifesong, the moment that marked the beginning of change in her life.

“Slowly, the darkness I carried began to give way to light. It was more than accommodation—it was family.”

Today, Maluba believes the future is bright. And as her faith continues to grow, she is beginning to understand her immense worth and potential. She loves biology and wants to pursue a career in medicine.

As she’s been seen, known, and loved, Maluba has experienced a fresh start to life.