A missionary group from Antioch, California, breathed a sigh of relief as they returned home on Sunday night after a tense week-long stay in Niger, precipitated by a sudden military coup. The coup resulted in a government takeover and subsequent shutdown of the country’s borders, leaving many foreigners, including the missionary group, stranded.
Lead pastors Steve and Maria Miner from the Cornerstone Christian Center and School spearheaded the missionary group. Their mission to host a children’s camp in West Africa was abruptly halted when the government shutdown grounded flights and closed borders.
While the situation was marked by a lack of violence, the uncertainty and lack of control created a palpable sense of tension. Despite being unable to leave the country, the group remained proactive, opting to serve the local community by preparing a school for the upcoming academic year. This included tasks like sanding desks and performing other maintenance activities.
Back home, the church reached out to local government officials, including Congressman John Garamendi and Senator Dianne Feinstein’s office, seeking assistance to bring the group home safely. After a week, their efforts bore fruit, and the group received an email permitting their return.
Despite their difficult journey, the Miners remain grateful for the successful evacuation. They’ve also appealed to the public to focus on the ongoing situation in Niger. The country, noted as the poorest in the world, continues to face hardships. The military coup, despite pressure from other African countries, has yet to reinstate the democratically elected president, and the borders remain closed.
The Miners urge for continued prayers and support for the people of Niger, highlighting the lack of basic necessities like clean water and food that many of us take for granted.