An Easter Rooted in Hospitality

This Easter, we’re reminded that the story of Christ is one of welcome, love, and sacrificial care. At Amani, that same spirit of hospitality is lived out every day—and then carried beyond our walls. These are stories of being welcomed and learning to welcome others in return.

Justine

“A place where I was welcomed”

“The stitchers were very loving and kind. They supported and guided me around. The staff were also very accommodating. As I went through the training, they didn’t shout at me—even when I was not a very good stitcher.”

“We were given a cup of tea, then we went for prayers—and that is what I loved the most about Amani.”

“The welcome and prayers made me feel peaceful and loved. I had just had a baby and was still weak, and not consistent in my attendance, but I was understood. When I had to stay home and take care of my baby, I was at peace knowing that I had found a place to work.”

“I have understood that I’m precious in the eyes of God and that He loves me very much. The fellowship times at Amani have helped me grow in my faith and confidence in God.”

“I have a neighbor who has a diabetic child, and I always see them struggle a lot with the child’s treatment. I hope to extend hospitality to them this Easter and support them in a small way by helping buy the medication the child needs.”

Grace

“Hospitality Reflects God’s Love”

When my husband passed away, Amani sent a team of ladies to come and support and pray with me. The burial was many miles away from Nairobi, but my sisters took the long journey to stand with me as I laid my husband to rest. When I returned to work, they arranged a visit to my home, bringing foodstuffs and giving me financial support. Amani showed me so much kindness.

I was very encouraged and comforted to know that I have a family at Amani—friends who love and care for me. Their presence filled my heart with a sense of peace that was very hard to find during that time.

Through this, I felt God’s presence in a deep way. I was reminded that He would be close to me as a widow, that He would not leave me alone. The Amani community became my support system through that season. My son has also been encouraged through the Amani Watoto program.

This Easter season, my church is mobilizing us to bring together food and clothing for a children’s home. I have learned that giving is better than receiving—and when I give, I want to give something I value, something that costs me.

Lilian

“Hospitality in the Small Things”

When I first came to Amani, I was not very skilled—I only knew how to do straight stitching. The women took time to help train me in many things. In the beginning, I was afraid and discouraged and even wanted to quit. But they encouraged me that it would be well, and I’m glad I didn’t give up.

During my training, everyone looked out for me so that I wouldn’t make mistakes. They corrected me in a very polite way, which made me feel loved. One woman trained me to do appliqué, which was a new skill for me—and now it is my favorite part of the work I do.

Because of the kindness and support I received, I am now able to support others in the same way. When I first came, I was not very open to talking to people, and that made me miss opportunities to help others. Now I have the confidence to reach out and help anyone in need around me.

This Easter, I hope to spend quality time with my family and community. In my church, we usually spend holidays visiting the less privileged—sometimes in hospitals or prisons. This Easter, we plan to visit a men’s prison to encourage and pray with them.

This is the heart of Easter—love received, and love extended.
Because when we are welcomed in, we learn to open our hands to others