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

• Lutheran Pastor Oskar Brüsewitz set himself on fire in a public square fifty years ago to protest communist oppression of the church in East Germany
• His sacrifice became a powerful symbol of religious resistance against totalitarian persecution
• German Christians continue to honor his courageous stand for faith and freedom under atheistic communist rule

Half a century ago, a Lutheran pastor made the ultimate sacrifice in a desperate plea for religious freedom. Pastor Oskar Brüsewitz’s act of self-immolation in protest of communist oppression sent shockwaves through East Germany and became a enduring testament to the cost of faith under persecution.

In an era when communist authorities systematically suppressed Christianity and persecuted believers, Pastor Brüsewitz chose a dramatic and sacrificial act to draw the world’s attention to the plight of the church. His willingness to give his life rather than remain silent stands as a stark reminder of the brutal reality faced by Christians living under atheistic totalitarian regimes.

The pastor’s courageous stand resonated far beyond the borders of East Germany, inspiring believers who faced similar persecution and serving as a witness to the indomitable nature of Christian faith. His sacrifice demonstrated that no amount of state oppression could extinguish the light of the Gospel or silence those committed to proclaiming truth.

Today, as German Christians mark this solemn anniversary, they remember not only the tragedy of Pastor Brüsewitz’s death but also the power of his testimony. His actions remind us that religious freedom is never guaranteed and must be defended by each generation.

The commemoration serves as a sobering reminder to American Christians of the fragility of religious liberty. While we enjoy constitutional protections today, the story of Pastor Brüsewitz illustrates what happens when governments hostile to faith gain unchecked power over citizens’ lives and consciences.

His legacy calls believers to remain vigilant in defending religious freedom and to stand firm in faith regardless of the cost. In an age of increasing hostility toward traditional Christian values, his example challenges us to consider what we are willing to sacrifice for the truth of the Gospel.

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Faith Facts

• Rev. Billy Cerveny serves as associate rector at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Jacksonville, Florida
• The pastor shared insights on Tucker Carlson’s program about addiction, brokenness, and redemption through Christ
• Those who have experienced deep brokenness and repentance can become powerful instruments for God’s kingdom work

A Florida pastor is offering hope to those struggling with addiction and brokenness, explaining how God can transform lives through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ.

Rev. Billy Cerveny, associate rector at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church in Jacksonville, Florida, appeared on Tucker Carlson’s program this week to discuss the redemptive power of the Gospel for those who have hit rock bottom.

“Want to know what God loves the most? Watch what Satan attacks most aggressively.” The Rev. Billy Cerveny on spiritual war.

0:00 The Moment Rev. Cerveny Heard God’s Calling
8:20 The Uniqueness of the Relationship Between a Father and Son
16:53 How Does Spiritual Warfare… pic.twitter.com/8yqADK66sT

— Tucker Carlson (@TuckerCarlson) August 17, 2026

The pastor emphasized that brokenness is not the end of the story for believers but rather can be a catalyst for encountering God’s transforming grace. Those who have struggled with addiction and come to genuine repentance, he explained, often become some of the most effective witnesses for Christ.

“We are more than conquerors,” Cerveny said, referencing the Apostle Paul’s declaration in Romans 8:37 that believers triumph through Christ who loves them.

The message comes at a critical time when addiction rates continue to devastate American families and communities. Rather than viewing addiction solely through a secular lens of disease management, the Christian perspective offers genuine hope through spiritual transformation and the power of the Gospel.

Cerveny’s insights remind believers that no one is beyond the reach of God’s redeeming love. The same power that raised Christ from the dead is available to anyone who turns to Him in faith and repentance, regardless of their past struggles or failures.

This testimony underscores a foundational Christian truth: God specializes in taking broken vessels and making them whole again. Throughout Scripture, from the Apostle Paul to the woman at the well, God has used people with troubled pasts to accomplish His purposes and demonstrate His mercy.

The pastor’s appearance on Carlson’s platform also represents the continued importance of Christian voices speaking truth in the public square, offering biblical answers to the pressing social problems facing our nation.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.