Norman and Pat's Trip to Kenya

My first trip to Kenya was in 1994, when I spoke at a conference organised by Brenda Marshall and Peacemakers just outside Embu. Here we were, Pat and I, returning 32 years later to visit the Links hub, which Brenda has generously donated to Links.

For the last two years, Pat and I have prayed almost every day for the hub and for Sam Walker, who is seeking to develop the work being done there. We went with a word burning in our spirits: "A place of excellence."

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We were greeted on arrival by the staff singing at the entrance to the centre, clapping and cheering and immediately felt at home. We were very aware of the team spirit and family atmosphere that was very evident on site.

You cannot help but be impressed by what is being accomplished at the centre: growing crops, milking two cows, practising animal husbandry, training young women in computer literacy, gathering the village elders to explore how they can work together for the benefit of their communities, and making increasing use of the facilities for the local community. We were also deeply touched that several people with disabilities were on the staff - people who might otherwise have been marginalised by society.

The hospitality was second to none. We were served delicious food, including the best breakfast we have ever had at any hotel! We laughed and cried together, believing that the hub will become a place of excellence - a lighthouse not just for Kenya, but for the whole of East Africa.

It was my 84th Birthday while we were there, we bought a goat to eat and threw a party for all the staff. We celebrated with song and dance as only the Africans can, it was another beautiful memory and yet another story to tell.

Norman Barnes
Links Founder