New Around the Mission
A Legacy Fulfilled
December 17, 2009
The embers of Dr. John Knelson's enthusiasm for mission in Rwanda continue to spark the flame of ministry in the community he served faithfully for decades. The pediatrician's dream of returning to Rwanda to make a difference was never realized, but his legacy lives on through his wife and members of All Saints Anglican in North Carolina. The Morehead City congregation hosted the fourth annual Homes of Hope fundraiser for the child-headed households of Christian Hope Village, Rwanda.
On December 7, 2009, women from the seaside community surrounding Morehead City gathered for a lunch to learn how their combined donations of close to $35,000 are building multipurpose building, providing furniture and food and giving hope to the children of Christian Hope Village. Prior to the event, a large donation by a local businessman was given in memory of Dr. Knelson, the gift reflecting the same sense of faithful generosity Knelson characterized.
Commissioned by Archbishop Kolini several years ago, Knelson made many trips to Rwanda to survey the status of medical care and help determine how the church can cooperate with the government to address some of the problems they face. He also volunteered time and experience to teach medical students at the University of Butare, where he realized the importance of mosquito nets to save lives.
Children inside their new "Home of Hope"
“He had a call from God to go,” explains Knelson’s wife Brenda. “They changed our hearts, and we are forever touched by our experience in Rwanda.” Since Knelson’s death from cancer on January 24, 2007, Brenda has joined the missions committee at All Saints and is a new member of the Homes of Hope event team. "As a member of the Homes of Hope committee it is my hope that I will be able to honor John's desire to carry on mission in Rwanda."
“My involvement is all about sharing the love of Christ with others and fulfilling John’s desire to carry on mission to Rwanda. We may be the only Bible that people ever read.”
To make a donation to Homes of Hope contact Shelly Miller at smiller@theamia.org.
Posted By: Cynthia P. Brust
Categories: Rwanda
