Nearing Completion
Our time may end, but the mission continues
As we stand at the threshold of closing this remarkable chapter in Rwanda, our hearts overflow with gratitude and joy for the journey we’ve shared at Virunga Valley Academy (VVA). The end of our second year here approaches, and on June 8, 2025, our family will return to America, leaving behind a community that has become family. The privilege of investing in the lives of VVA’s students and staff has been one of the greatest joys of our lives, and we carry forward memories that will shape us forever.
The school year is drawing to a close, and we’re deep in the rhythm of finals. It’s a season of reflection as we witness our students’ growth—not just in academics but in their faith and character. Thom’s math classes and Bekah’s science lessons have been more than equations and experiments; they’ve been opportunities to encourage critical thinking, resilience, and a pursuit of God’s truth. We’ve watched these young people blossom into future transformers of Rwanda, and our prayer is that they continue to seek God’s kingdom with courage and compassion.
Since our last update, VVA has been alive with events that have woven our community closer together. The School Festival in February 2025 was a blast— lots of games, vendors, and bouncy house insanity. (No kids were injured despite how many attempted to cram into the bouncy house at once.) The VVA 10 Year Anniversary was a milestone that filled us with awe, reflecting on a decade of God’s faithfulness since Matt and Andrea Miller founded VVA in 2014. We gathered to honor the school’s legacy of reconciliation—between people, to God, and to creation—recommitting to its mission as we celebrated with gratitude and hope. The Mother/Daughter Tea was a sweet time, where mothers and daughters shared stories and laughter, strengthening bonds that echo the importance of family. The Talent Show (just this last weekend) was ridiculously fun to put together though a lot of work. Students (all the way down to Preschool!) went boldly onto the stage and gave it their all. A special thanks to the men of F3 Birmingham that contributed to help make the talent show a success. (Funds were used to pay for prizes and some used to invest in lighting equipment for future events).
Thom’s F3 Musanze workout group has grown into a brotherhood that has been a source of strength and fellowship. Our recent mountain hikes (we crushed both Gahinga and Sabyinyo) were more than physical challenges; they were spiritual journeys that helped us to grow in mental toughness as we pushed each other not to quit. Our gathering at Villa Gorilla was filled with laughter and connection, a reminder of the community we’ve built through shared faith and encouragement. These moments have deepened our appreciation for the men of Musanze and the bonds we’ve formed.
A special moment was the visit from our friends at Homewood Church of Christ and Thom’s sister Sarah and her family in late March. They joined us for the 10 Year Anniversary, and their presence was a gift, bridging our worlds of Rwanda and home. Together, we went on safari, an adventure that left us in awe of God’s creation—from the wildlife to the vast landscapes of this beautiful country. Their visit was a powerful reminder of the love and support we carry with us.
As we near the completion of this chapter, the spiritual impacts of our time here are profound. The school year’s end has shown us God’s faithfulness in guiding our students’ growth, preparing them to serve their communities with Christ-like character. The VVA events have been more than celebrations; they’ve been opportunities to see God’s hand in uniting people, fostering reconciliation, and celebrating His gifts. F3 Musanze has taught us the power of fellowship, where physical challenges become spiritual victories, and God’s creation inspires worship. The visit from loved ones reminded us that we’re part of a larger family, sustained by prayers and shared faith across continents.
Serving at VVA has been a joy beyond measure. We’ve poured our hearts into this community - teaching, mentoring, and walking alongside students as they navigate this chapter of their lives. We’ve seen transformations—students finding their voices, families growing closer, and a community strengthened by faith. As we prepare to leave, our hearts are heavy, but they are also full, knowing that God’s work at VVA will continue through the incredible staff, students, and families we’ve come to love. We are grateful for every moment, and hope and pray to stay involved in the lives of our family and friends here.
Thank you for walking this journey with us through your prayers, encouragement, and support. Your love has sustained us in ways we can’t fully express. As we look to the summer and the new paths God has for our family, we trust in His plan, carrying the joy of this season with us always.
Much Love!
Thom and Bekah