Monday, January 22, 2024
OUTSIDE THE BOX REFLECTS
On two extraordinary stories of faith and resilience.
On Sunday, January 14th at 11:30AM in the Philbrick Room, St. John's "Outside the Box" ministry welcomed Sam Khumbula and Blessing Sithole, two young men from Zimbabwe whose stories of determination, drive and deep faith are truly amazing. We caught up with Parishioners Suzi Raeside and Maggie Skafidas to hear about this wonderful presentation...
"I met Sam about a year ago at the home of John and Maggie Skafidas. They had invited me to come and hear the remarkable story of Sam, a young man from Africa, who they had been helping with college costs. After sitting spellbound for more than an hour, listening to the most remarkable story I had ever heard of grit, determination and humanity, I knew I had to bring Sam and his "brother", Blessing, to our Outside the Box. I think every school child in America should hear this story."
— Suzi Raeside
"There are a few times in one's life when you meet extraordinary people; Sam and Blessing are two of mine.
"Both motherless, Sam became head of his household at 11 with two younger brothers to support by selling bananas in the wee hours of the morning, and then going to school. Blessing lived with his grandparents and walked miles to school barefooted. They literally came from the barest of bones, yet their belief in the importance of getting an education never waned as they shone by always working to be at the top of their class. Both have been blessed with benefactors along the way, and they could not be more humble. When they speak about the gifts God has given them, it is humbling to me.
"What Blessing and Sam have overcome is worth writing a book to inspire others. Even with obstacles we would think as insurmountable, Sam and Blessing continue to show me that with drive and determination, the unthinkable for these two boys has become, and continues to become, a reality for these two men."
— Maggie Skafidas
ABOUT "OUTSIDE THE BOX"
We join with so many others at St John’s with humility and gratitude for the gifts we receive every day. We are guided by our Bishop Rob Hirschfeld who said "God’s love refuses to be kept in a box."
Outside the Box is organized by a small steering committee who meets to plan, invite, and schedule speakers to come to St Johns to tell their story. We serve a simple lunch and encourage community, conversation and discussion. We welcome all ideas for future talks and invite you to join us this weekend.