Faith
Retired Couple’s Divine Encounter in Tanzania Sparked 25 Years of Faithful Service
Faith Facts
- Don and Joann Tolmie traveled to Tanzania as retirees in their late 60s and early 70s over 20 years ago
- The couple encountered children with significant disabilities and felt called by God to serve them
- Their initial visit turned into a 25-year mission of faithful service to disabled children in Tanzania
When most Americans envision retirement, they picture rest and relaxation after decades of hard work. But for Don and Joann Tolmie, retirement became the launching pad for one of the most profound chapters of their lives. More than two decades ago, the Illinois couple ventured to Tanzania, not knowing that a simple question would transform their golden years into a divine mission.
The Tolmies were in their late 60s and early 70s when they first set foot in the East African nation. During their visit, they encountered children living with significant disabilities—children whose futures appeared uncertain and whose needs were overwhelming. When the couple inquired about what would become of these vulnerable young souls, they received an answer that broke their hearts and ignited their purpose.
In that moment, the Tolmies recognized what they describe as a “God moment”—a divine appointment that was unmistakably orchestrated by the Lord. Rather than returning to the comfort of their American retirement, Don and Joann chose to answer the call they believed God had placed directly in their path. This decision would mark the beginning of a quarter-century commitment to serving some of the world’s most marginalized children.
Their story stands as a powerful testament to the truth that God’s calling knows no age limit. While secular culture often views retirement as the end of productive life, the Tolmies demonstrate that for believers, it can be the beginning of the most meaningful work. Their faithfulness reminds us that when we make ourselves available to God’s purposes, He can use us at any stage of life to accomplish His kingdom work.
The couple’s decades-long dedication to disabled children in Tanzania reflects the heart of the Gospel—caring for “the least of these” and bringing hope to those whom society often overlooks. Their sacrifice challenges American Christians to consider how God might be calling them to step out in faith, regardless of age or circumstance.
In an era when comfort and security often take precedence over calling, the Tolmies’ example shines as a beacon of what’s possible when we trust God’s plan over our own. Their willingness to trade the ease of retirement for the challenges of mission work in a developing nation reveals the transformative power of obedience to Christ.
For 25 years, Don and Joann have poured their lives into children who desperately needed advocates, caregivers, and the love of Christ. Their story isn’t just about two remarkable individuals—it’s about a faithful God who continues to work through surrendered hearts, proving that the best is often yet to come for those who follow His lead.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Faith Facts
- A group of pastors gathered to pray over Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton at a campaign rally, calling on God for supernatural favor in the final weeks before the Senate election.
- The clergy specifically invoked Romans 13, urging divine support for Paxton as he seeks to represent Texas in the United States Senate.
- The public prayer event reflects a growing trend of faith leaders openly supporting conservative candidates who align with traditional Christian values.
A group of Texas pastors publicly prayed over Republican Attorney General Ken Paxton at a campaign rally this week, asking God to grant him favor with voters in the final stretch of his Senate bid.
The clergy cited Romans 13 during the prayer, reminding supporters that governing authorities are called to serve as ministers of God for justice and order.
Pastors for Paxton gathered to pray over @KenPaxtonTX at his rally today in Conroe. Pastors @Steve_Riggle and @BuntrockJames led us in asking God to grant him wisdom, strength, and protection as he serves Texas. ???? https://t.co/8GQVrU5zxO
— Pastors For Paxton (@pastors4paxton) October 20, 2026
“Give him favor with voters.”
Paxton, who has long positioned himself as a defender of biblical values on issues like life, marriage, and religious liberty, welcomed the spiritual covering from the pastors in attendance.
The event underscores the deep connection many conservative voters in Texas feel between their faith and their political choices.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Faith Facts
- Frank Turek wakes each morning and ends each evening thinking of Charlie Kirk.
- One year after witnessing the assassination of the conservative activist, Turek continues his commitment to share the Gospel on college campuses.
- The loss of Charlie Kirk has strengthened Turek’s resolve to defend biblical truth among young people.
Christian apologist Frank Turek has carried the memory of Charlie Kirk with him every single day since witnessing the conservative activist’s assassination at Utah Valley University. The grief remains real, yet so does his steadfast determination to keep proclaiming the Gospel.
Each morning when he wakes and each night before he sleeps, Turek’s first and last thoughts return to Kirk. The loss of a friend and fellow defender of truth has left a deep mark, but it has not silenced his mission.
“The first person I think of when I wake up is Charlie.”
Turek’s ongoing work on college campuses reflects a commitment to the same values Kirk championed. He continues reaching students with biblical truth, refusing to let tragedy silence the message of Christ.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Faith Facts
- Scripture shows God pairing leaders such as Moses with Joshua, David with Jonathan, and Paul with Barnabas and Timothy.
- Jesus sent the seventy-two disciples out in pairs, modeling shared leadership rather than isolation.
- Healthy Christian leaders are called to build friendships that strengthen their walk with Christ and service to others.
Leadership brings heavy responsibility whether you run a business, shepherd a congregation or coach a youth team. Decisions rest on your shoulders and burdens often feel uniquely yours.
Many leaders quietly admit that the role can feel lonely. Yet loneliness does not have to become isolation that harms both the leader and the people served.
“Leadership will always have moments of loneliness. That comes with the territory. But that doesn’t have to mean isolation.”
Throughout the Bible, God provides companions for those He calls to lead. These relationships offer wisdom, encouragement and accountability that solitary leadership cannot supply.
“Build deep friendships with fellow leaders. No leader feels like they have time for this. Yet few leaders make it to the finish line healthy without it.”
Leaders are encouraged to take two practical steps. First, seek a coach or mentor who is a few steps ahead and willing to share honest insight and guidance.
Regular meetings with such a mentor can help a leader recognize blind spots, set growth goals and stay faithful when the fire of service begins to fade.
Second, build deep friendships with other leaders who share the same values and challenges. These relationships offer laughter, correction, prayer and perspective that refresh the soul.
For more than twenty years, one minister has walked alongside six fellow leaders from Texas, Oklahoma and California. They meet weekly by video, attend conferences together and retreat each year for three days of honest conversation and prayer.
The investment of time and travel has strengthened each man’s ministry and personal walk with the Lord. Distance and busy schedules require intentionality, yet the spiritual return far outweighs the cost.
Christian leaders are urged to pray for the right companions, take the initiative to reach out and keep showing up even when the effort feels awkward at first. The people entrusted to their care deserve leaders who remain spiritually and emotionally healthy.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
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