FI MessiahLifeways UnscriptedMagazine Spring2025 - Flipbook - Page 37
That two-year mission trip in the 1970s turned into
20+ years, and in 2020, they relocated back to the
U.S. permanently.
“When we left in 2020, there were 14 different
projects in which I was either the principal investigator
(PI) or co-PI,” said Phil, who has since traveled back
to Zambia a handful of times to attend annual Board
meetings. “There still isn't a week that goes by when
I don’t receive at least one email with a researchrelated question.”
They moved to Messiah Village in 2023, grateful for
the security that the continuum of care provides.
Moving out of their Dillsburg home was a walk down
memory lane for Phil as he cleared out the basement,
sorting through boxes of lifelong research—research
he now shares with Pathways Institute for Lifelong
Learning participants in his course, "The History
of Malaria.”
You can see bits of their memories smattered around
their Messiah Village apartment. Metal mosquitoes
hanging from the pendant lights above their kitchen
island, and a tapestry that once hung in their house in
Zambia now hangs on their bedroom wall. Nestled in
their bookshelf is a Macha Malaria Research Institute
sign—a simple reminder of a life dedicated to service
and a community forever changed.
“I share my experiences not to bring any glory to what
I've done,” Phil said. “But I think the Holy Spirit uses
stories to encourage other people—to plant a seed.
To change hearts.”
Top and bottom: Photos from Phil
and Elaine's time serving in Zambia
Middle: Phil with a tapestry that
hung in their home in Zambia
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