How BBSI Was Formed

In 1998, God showed me (Florence Shakes) a vision of sick and dying children. I walked among them, holding them in my arms, crying and praying. I found myself washing, clothing and feeding them. However, I noticed that although the children were now clean, clothed and fed they had no homes. This made me weep. God then showed me a vision of children’s home, a clinic with nurses and a school. God then showed me the finished home and inside was the same children whom I had washed, clothed and fed earlier. The children were so happy and it was clear to see that there was a big difference to their lives. I immediately wrote down my vision and waited.

Ten years had passed and during this time guided by the Lord, I visited the sick and helped those in need in England. I knew God was training me and one day He gave me a scripture, Matthew 25 verse 31 – 46.

After reading this, I realized that there were things to do. Led by the Lord I started visiting people in hospitals, care homes and mental homes, as well as caring for people who were unable to leave their homes due to illness

In April 2000, I graduated from Bible School, where I received a diploma in Charismatic Studies. During this course I learned a great deal about mission work and coupled with my vision I felt a strong desire not just to simply attend church every week but to birth the vision, so I began praying, asking God to lead me to the vision He showed me 12 years ago. In August 2000, my prayers were answered and the door was opened for me to go to Kenya to visit the  Kibera Slum.