Once silent and reserved, shyly hiding in the corners of the church where he could quietly listen to sermons from a distance, Joe began a miraculous journey, embracing life as it unfolded and following as God led, persevering through the challenges of his early years (see the January 2026 issue).

We [Hosea and Fidel] had started a French class open to youth both inside and outside the church, a tool not only for education but also for spreading the Word of God within the community. Joe was part of that class, and we realized his gifts, which led us to decide to work with him. He saw us as mentors and was very intentional about his learning. This connection allowed us to build a meaningful relationship with him.
Joe is now leading the youth class, which was initiated to provide a safe space where young people can express themselves freely and build confidence without the pressure of adult interaction. It has become a vibrant place of encouragement, communication and transformation, truly bearing fruit for God’s glory.

Due to Joe’s determined efforts with the youth, a young man named Joseph, who had been like Joe was before, is now willing to actively participate in youth activities and never misses church training sessions or meetings. One memorable moment was when Joseph approached Joe with two handwritten notes, each expressing his deep desire to learn. “I want to study the Bible and memorize Bible verses,” and “I want to learn the French language.”
Joe’s achievements with the youth have encouraged him to no longer be ashamed to stand before the congregation. He speaks boldly and serves passionately. He actively participates in the adult Sabbath school, where he now teaches lessons, leads song service, and shares insights from the “Inside Story” section of the quarterly. Each Sabbath, he looks forward to engaging with the message, supporting the worship, and helping others deepen their understanding of God’s word. These moments are more than just roles; they are reflections of his journey.

Being part of the teaching team and contributing to song service has not only built Joe’s confidence but has also given him a sense of belonging. The church that once felt like a place where he was invisible is now the community where his voice is heard and valued. Joe no longer wonders whether people recognize him; instead, he has been called to participate, lead and inspire others.

Then, from October 2024 to February 2025, Uncle Fred1 and Isatta Coker initiated a season of prayer, asking God to lead our team to someone of His choice to serve as our person of peace among the Kono people. We pleaded for someone whose heart had already been prepared, someone ready to serve, and ideally, someone from Kono who speaks and writes the Kono language, understands and can help with the Kono culture, and to whom we could teach the Bible so he or she could help with translating when we go into the villages.

After five months of seeking, Joe’s name came clearly to mind. Interestingly, he had been coming to our home for Bible studies the entire time, yet we had not considered him as the answer. While we were searching far and wide, God was working nearby.

Joe understood that true wisdom comes through surrendering to God. One day, he said with conviction, “Today, I am discovering my talent and stepping out of the shadows into the light of God. The youth class, especially the youth ministry which Uncle Fred initiated in our church, has helped me in this rough journey. I praise God that I am who I am today because of Him, and my dear Uncle Fred and his wife. They are more than parents and counselors to each of us.”

Joe’s journey has shown him that faith is not just about attendance but about transformation, involvement and living out one’s calling. Joe now walks boldly with purpose, knowing that every Sabbath is an opportunity to grow, serve, and shine. God took his quiet presence and turned it into a platform for praise. Yes, Joe’s journey reflects a powerful testimony of spiritual growth, consistent commitment, perseverance and divine purpose.

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1Uncle Fred passed away in March 2025.

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