Joe was born in 2002 in Sierra Leone, a country engulfed in civil war from 1991 to 2002, a tragic period often referred to as the “Blood Diamond” era.

Joe was born to Muslim parents living in a small village. His early childhood was marked by hardship, not only because of the war but also due to personal circumstances. When his parents could not afford to send him away to continue his schooling, a close friend of his father adopted 10-year-old Joe. The family welcomed him as one of their own. To anyone unaware of his story, Joe appeared no different from their biological children.

The family enrolled Joe in an Adventist primary school, which aligned with their faith. Though he was raised Muslim, he started attending church with them, not out of obligation, but out of curiosity and respect. At that age, although he did not fully grasp the meaning of faith, he chose to follow their spiritual practices at home and at school.

As he progressed academically, he faced significant financial challenges. A lack of finances delayed his primary national exam for two years. The same situation reoccurred during his junior and senior secondary school exams. Recognizing his family’s sacrifice and the increasing financial pressure as his siblings grew older, he eventually decided to leave school to work and help support the household.

Joe began doing odd jobs: cleaning compounds, fetching water and washing clothes. He later spent a year learning tailoring, but this was cut short due to the relocation of the instructor. He then resumed unskilled work until a neighbor offered him a chance to learn masonry and roofing. After months of hands-on experience, Joe transitioned into welding, a trade in which he worked for three years, receiving a certification that enabled him to pursue work in formal settings.

Throughout this time, Joe remained committed to his faith. He explained to his employers that he could not work Sabbath mornings, and they respected his convictions. Initially, Joe attended church in the morning and reported to work afterward, but this was physically taxing. He finally consecrated the entire Sabbath, resting from Friday evening until Sunday.
Despite Joe’s regular attendance, he was largely invisible in church. He was shy, unsure how to socialize or participate actively. Joe admired those who led programs and sang in the choir, but could not imagine himself doing likewise. When the choir called for new members, he expressed interest. However, the prerequisite was baptism. Without baptism, Joe could not wear the choir robe.

Motivated not just by choir participation but by deep spiritual conviction and inspiring teachings by Uncle Fred and Mrs. Coker, Joe chose to be baptized. Still, many saw him as a newcomer, even though he had attended since childhood. That disconnection hurt, especially when his siblings were known and recognized while he remained overlooked.

Sabbath school classes were organized by ethnic group and language: Mende, Temne, Kono, Krio and English, along with a youth class. Joe became drawn to youth activities, particularly after becoming directly involved with Fidel Kalou-Bi, one of our lay workers, who is a French Ivorian. Fidel sometimes gives of his time to teach French to the youth. He is also the District Youth Director. Out of curiosity, Joe joined the youth, hoping that someday he would be recognized.

Joe’s transformation truly began during Global Youth Day 2024. He was surprised when his sister handed him a presentation that she had prepared and was supposed to present. Joe had never spoken in public and was deeply shy, but he accepted the challenge to speak in his sister’s place. Despite his late arrival on that day, Joe did an excellent job. That experience ignited new confidence and a shift in how others viewed him.

In September 2024, during World Pathfinder Day, Joe was given the opportunity to lead the youth program for the week and to preach on Sabbath. This marked a profound moment in his spiritual journey: from hiding in the background to stepping into the spotlight and serving God’s purpose.

Joe now serves as the choir director of the very church where he was once invisible. The Lord’s ways are mysterious, and His plans far exceed our understanding. From a shy observer to a spiritual leader, Joe’s journey reflects God’s grace and the power of transformation through faith.

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