From September 2–8, Kelly Kellum, Friends United Meeting General Secretary, and Michael Sherman, FUM’s Coordinator of North American and Caribbean Ministries, traveled to Belize City to walk alongside the Friends ministry there during a vital season of transition.
This visit marked the conclusion of Director Oscar Mmbali’s service in Belize. Oscar has now returned to Kenya to spend time with his mother and immediate family before reuniting with his wife Miriam and their daughter Noa in Sweden this November.
Oscar and Miriam have given deeply of themselves in Belize. When Oscar first arrived, the Friends Church was not functioning, and the Center’s programs were little more than a dream. Today, through their leadership and God’s grace, Belize Friends Church, Belize Friends Center, and Belize Friends School are active ministries offering education, fellowship, and hope to families on the Southside of Belize City. Their steady presence and faithful witness have shaped the life of this community in lasting ways.
During the week, Kelly and Michael met with Antoliana Budna, Principal of Belize Friends School, and Stephen Whyte, head of the Belize Friends School board, to review transition plans, confirm school board nominations, and shape a path forward for the ministry. Michael, Antoliana, and Stephen will serve together as the new interim leadership team for FUM in Belize until a director is appointed.
The staff also gathered one evening to express appreciation for Oscar’s ministry. One staff member reflected, “Oscar became the father that many of our young people never knew.” That testimony captures the impact of his ministry in Belize.
Friends are invited to hold FUM Belize in prayer, giving thanks for what has been accomplished, praying for wisdom and encouragement for the interim leadership team, and continuing to support this vital witness on the Southside of Belize City.
Above, L–R: Michael Sherman, Stephen Whyte, Antoliana Budna, Kelly Kellum, Oscar Mmbali.
