WHERE THE BATTERSONS BECAME A TRIBE...
Our four years in Tanzania with Global Effect Ministries transformed us - it's where we became a Tribe. Living alongside Tanzanians, we learned a new language and culture. Doing life with the Tanzanians was an immense blessing, and our lives are changed forever by their amazing hospitality, emphasis on relationships over anything else, and the humbling way they pursue God. While primarily serving through Global Effect, we also embraced broader community involvement.
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church in the village
church in the village
church in the village
church in the village
Chapel game at Hope
church in the village
church in the village
Scavenger hunt for chapel at Hope
Storytime
Kids love chapel at Hope
Chapel time at Hope
Chapel time at Hope
Hope International School
Hope School brings international education to Moshi at an accessible price point. With students from over a dozen countries and diverse faiths (Christian, Muslim, Sikh, and others). Through experiential learning and arts integration, Hope nurtures students' whole development while sharing God's love. Amanda was, middle school teacher, curriculum & logistics coordinator and admin, while Bill taught Preschool and PE to grades K-8.
Ezekiel's River
Ezekiel's River is a group of leaders and pastors from different areas around Moshi that Bill was involved with. They read and discussed books to equip themselves with strategies and resources to take back to their communities and churches. This group also aimed to recalibrate and redefine purpose, raise the standard of what a 'normal' Christian looks like and to equip leaders to impact the church, family, government, education, media and finance/business world in Tanzania.
Missionary Partnerships
Everyday Life
Our goal has always been supporting established ministries and fostering community connections. Amanda contributed through photography of missionary families and projects, while also sharing her teaching and organizational abilities. Bill served on Global Effect's construction committee, taught sustainable farming practices with Farming God's Way, and participated in church leadership. To strengthen local relationships, we opened our home for life groups and offered practical help - from childcare to meal delivery to grocery runs.
We are strong believers in our lives being a constant witness to the love of Christ Living in Tanzania humbled us as we aimed to reflect Christ's love through daily life. Following local custom, we employed a gardener, night guard, and housekeeper, viewing these relationships as opportunities for ministry. We delighted in blessing them - offering garden space for growing food, sharing clothing, or gifting quality shoes from America. Their profound gratitude for these simple gestures touched us deeply. Beyond material generosity, we hoped our family life and interactions with the community would allow them to see God's light shining brightly in us and that they might long to have the same light.