From Chris Cunningham, our missionary at Penn State serving with Cru

P. came to the U.S. from China, to study in Cincinnati as a master's student.  Upon his arrival in Cincinnati he stayed for a couple weeks with a Christian host family before he had permanent housing. Though this family was Christian, they were very gentle about their faith and P. didn't have any interest in going to church or thinking about God.  Months later, he went to the hospital because he had fainted.  In the course of things he learned that he had developed type 2 diabetes.  Quickly he went into depression and eventually reached out to the host family who he'd stayed with initially. They showed him unconditional love and encouragement and eventually he gave his life to Christ.  After he graduated P. came to Penn State for his PhD, I met him and he got involved with us. P. has shared his testimony with many students during his 5 1/2 years with us and he's brought many students out to our weekly Bible studies and dinners and he was a Bible study leader for 2 years.  Today P. is doing a postdoc in Colorado and he's praying about what he wants to do next with his life.  He's not too keen on teaching, he did that at Penn State but it wasn't a joyful experience for him to prepare lessons, give lectures, grade exams and have office hours.  He came to the U.S. to get a couple of degrees - MS and PhD but he got one he didn't expect, the AUG, degree - Approved Unto God!

Every Day at Neema, 47 Women Hear About the Love of Jesus

by Sue Kelley, Neema’s Prayer Coordinator

Many might assume students arriving at Neema, having gone through the Kenyan Christian Religious Education (CRE) curriculum, possess a strong foundation in the Bible. But just like basic math skills can elude some who’ve taken math classes, a true understanding of God’s love is often missing.

While I was visiting Neema last week, Irine, Neema’s Kenyan Director, shared that a Bible is a student’s most important tool, even surpassing their sewing machine or uniform. The Bible is the first and most valuable tool students receive when entering the school. They learn that God is a true father and that his immense love led him to send Jesus to die and rise again for the forgiveness of their sins.

This message is crucial for Neema students. Many carry burdens of shame — children born out of wedlock, abandonment by loved ones, experiences of physical or sexual abuse. Counselors work tirelessly, guiding them through forgiveness and reconciliation with their families. Biblical teachings on conflict resolution and character development become cornerstones of their journey.

Imagine a classroom where second-year students explore Proverbs 31, striving to become women of excellence. But Neema goes beyond textbooks. The staff and faculty become living examples of God’s love and forgiveness. Their dedication to these young women daily demonstrates God’s grace.

Justine, the mother of first year student Tabitha, said, "[My daughter] stood up during the church service, went in front, and gave a testimony on how her life has transformed since joining Neema and those in church were moved. She has grown spiritually and this gives me joy as a mother. Tabitha never used to be serious about spiritual matters, but I was amazed at how much she showed dedication and passion towards the things of God during [her school break]. She would encourage us to pray together as a family and even counsel her younger siblings to love God and develop a relationship with him." 

Neema isn’t just about education — it’s about finding new life in Christ. Young women discover love, forgiveness, and a path to a brighter future — one built on a foundation of faith and the unwavering support of a caring community.