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
- Ahmed Joktan, a Saudi-born evangelist, says a dream led him to Jesus and prompted his conversion from Islam.
- After embracing Christ, Joktan suffered violent persecution for leaving the Islamic faith.
- He now urges Western believers to share the Gospel courageously with their Muslim neighbors.
Saudi-born Christian evangelist Ahmed Joktan is urging believers in the West to proclaim the Gospel without fear after he himself paid a steep price for following Jesus.
Joktan says a dream drew him to Christ and led him to abandon Islam, a decision that triggered a violent assault against him.
“I was attacked because I chose to follow Jesus,” Joktan stated.
Despite the beating he endured, the evangelist insists the cost of obedience is worth it and that American Christians must not shrink from sharing their faith.
“I want to encourage my brothers and sisters in the West to be bold in witnessing to their Muslim neighbors,” Joktan said.
His testimony highlights the stark contrast between the freedom of religion enjoyed in the United States and the harsh reality faced by converts in many Muslim-majority nations.
Family, faith, and the courage to speak truth remain central to Joktan’s message as he travels and ministers across the country.
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Faith Facts
- The Bible records Noah’s Ark as a historical vessel built at God’s command to preserve life during the Flood.
- Archaeologists and geologists continue to study sites in Turkey that some claim match the Ark’s resting place.
- Christians are urged to ground their faith in Scripture rather than unverified discoveries.
Explosive headlines this week announced that Noah’s Ark has been discovered beneath a mountain range in Turkey. The claims have quickly spread across social media and news outlets, stirring both excitement and skepticism among believers.
Chris Sinkinson, a respected Christian author and lecturer, cautions that such announcements often outpace the evidence. He urges fellow believers to remain anchored in Scripture and verified facts rather than sensational reports.
“Christians need to stick to the facts,” Sinkinson stated. His words serve as a timely reminder that faith rests on the unchanging Word of God, not on the latest archaeological headline.
While the possibility of discovering physical remnants of the Ark is intriguing, experts note that conclusive proof remains elusive. Many past claims have failed under closer scientific examination.
Scripture itself provides the foundation for understanding the Flood and God’s covenant with Noah. Believers are reminded that the reliability of the Bible does not depend on locating the physical Ark.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
Faith Facts
- Revelation chapters 2 and 3 contain direct messages from Jesus to seven churches in Asia Minor, blending commendation with stern rebuke.
- Scripture records that Jesus declares, “I know your works,” underscoring His intimate awareness of both corporate and personal conduct.
- The warnings delivered to these early congregations still apply to contemporary churches that drift into compromise or complacency.
In Revelation 2 and 3, the gentle and lowly Jesus speaks to seven churches with both praise and severe warning.
He knows their works, their compromises and what they can’t see about themselves.
He knows ours, too.
Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.
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