Dear Friends and Partners,

I have to start by saying—what a journey this has been!

When I boarded my flight in Denver, I had everything neatly planned. But God had a better adventure in store. My flight to Chicago was delayed by weather, and I missed my connection. For a moment, I thought, “Lord, this is not how I imagined starting this mission trip!”

Yet, in His perfect timing, I was rerouted on Ethiopian Airlines, and what followed was a 13-hour flight wrapped in God’s peace. No stress, no chaos—just quiet moments with Him. By the time I landed in Cameroon, I knew He was already writing the story of this trip.

 

Family First – A 20-Year Reunion

My first week in Cameroon was a homecoming for the heart. For the first time in over two decades, my siblings, nieces, nephews, in-laws, and my dear mom were all under one roof.

We laughed until our sides hurt, shared delicious meals, prayed, worshiped, and even talked about the future. Two of my favorite moments? My mother laying hands and praying a blessing over each of her children and secondly, sitting down to interview my mom, capturing her stories and wisdom for generations to come. (Here is the link to the video on my YouTube (https://youtu.be/1WI8CIQgY-0—I can’t wait to hear your feedback!)

It was more than a reunion—it felt like God was restoring time.

 

Ministry in Motion – God at Work in the Next Generation

Even as I soaked up family time, ministry opportunities bloomed everywhere.

  • I was invited to a women’s prayer gathering, where the Spirit of God moved so powerfully as we prayed for our families and nation.
  • I led a staff development seminar at a local school, equipping teachers to inspire their students with both excellence and purpose.
  •  I spoke at two youth camps- one in Limbe(one group) and the other in Douala(Joint)

Then came one of the highlights: speaking at a joint youth camp!

Picture this: youth leaders and teens gathered with hearts ready to hear God. I shared sessions on “Youth and Missions” and “How to Lead a Youth Group Effectively”, and then we dove into the real and raw conversation of “Dealing with Addictions.”

Friends, I watched young hearts ignite—some saying yes to missions for the first time, others taking brave steps toward freedom in Christ. It was like watching seeds of revival being planted right before my eyes.

Kids Fun Day: On one of our Sundays at a neighborhood Baptist church, I heard the pastor complain about not having anything for the kids to do this summer. I felt led to organize a fun day for them. We played, laughed, ate, worshiped, shared the gospel and some kids gave their lives to Christ. Also had the opportunity to encourage the children’s ministers and celebrate them for the work they are doing with the kids with little to no resources. It was a blessing on both sides.

Leadership Conferences – Planting Seeds for Multiplication

I had the honor of hosting two leadership conferences in Limbe and Tiko, focusing on the Eight Core Values of Christian Leaders.

The rooms were filled with Business leaders in the Body of Christ, emerging leaders, pastors, and missionaries hungry to grow in faith, vision, and impact. God moved in powerful ways, and I left those gatherings knowing multiplication is coming.

In fact, the very participants who attended are now hosting their own first leadership conference in Tiko, August 7–9—fruit from this mission trip already taking root! I am excited about this move of God.

 

The Story of Mr. and Mrs. Mekumba

Among the many leaders I met, one story shines brightly. I first met Margaret in middle school. Our team shared the gospel with her, she got saved, joined our discipleship program and in high school went through the Bible school our ministry leads for laity. It was good to come back and meet her husband (Mr Mekumba) and hear how God is leading them.

Ten years ago, Mr. and Mrs. Mekumba felt God speak to them, giving them a specific assignment for His kingdom. But for a decade, they didn’t step out—because of fear and they simply didn’t know where to start. Then they attended the leadership conference in Tiko.

Something shifted. The teachings on vision, goal setting etc, the prayer times and presence of God ignited courage in their hearts and gave them practical steps, as they delve into what God is calling them to do. I also had coaching and prayer sessions with them.

This is why I believe God has called me to this assignment: to help young leaders fulfill God’s call on their lives. Coaching will continue from a distance, and I cannot wait to see what God does through their obedience.

 

Life at JERTS & a Divine Delay

When I wasn’t preaching or teaching, I was back at JERTS International Bilingual School, where our holiday classes were full of energy and joy. I also joined our team in getting the school ready for the new academic year—classrooms cleaned, supplies organized, and hearts prepared to welcome more children. Thanks to all the friends who donated resources and supplies for the school.

Somewhere in the middle of all this, I ran into an unexpected delay—passport renewal. It took longer than I had planned, which at first felt like a setback. But God… He turned that delay into extra time to pour into leaders and missionaries one-on-one. Praying for those dealing with health issues, encouraging those going through difficult season and just listening to the stories of what God is doing.

What felt like a pause in my plans became a divine extension of purpose.

 

Next Stop: Liberia!

Now, with my passport in hand, I am preparing to fly to Liberia this Saturday for the next chapter of this mission journey. My heart is expectant—I believe God has encounters, breakthroughs, and divine connections waiting in Liberia.

Would you continue to cover me in prayer?

  • For smooth travel and safe arrival
  • For favor and clarity in every meeting
  • For fresh outpourings of the Holy Spirit over every leader and gathering

 

You Are Part of This Story

Every prayer you’ve whispered, every word of encouragement, and every gift you’ve sown has written your name into this mission story. Together, we are equipping leaders, empowering youth, and advancing God’s kingdom in places that need His light.

If you feel led to partner financially, your support will help Acts 1:8 Movement continue to train and send leaders into the harvest.https://acts18.tithelysetup.com/pages/give

 

My Prayer for You

As I continue this journey, I’m also praying for you:

  • May you experience unexpected blessings in unexpected places
  • May peace and joy follow you everywhere this month
  • And may God’s favor open doors you didn’t even know were waiting

Thank you for being a vital part of this mission. The adventure is just beginning, and I can’t wait to share the next chapter with you from Liberia!

With love and gratitude,
Velma Tim
Acts 1:8 Movement