By Daniel Lapham/Staff Writer
published March 26, 2008

What began as a once in a lifetime mission trip to Malawi, Africa, eight years ago has turned into a lifelong calling for two El Reno couples.

Waynetta and Harvey Thrailkill and Donnie and Debhora Dunkin officially started Great Commission Missions on July 9 and currently have three “feeding centers” in three villages in Malawi.

Waynetta Thrailkill said their story is a testament to what God can do in the lives of those who are willing.

“I didn’t even know where Malawi was 10 years ago and now we are running a mission organization for the Malawian people,” she said.

Debhora Dunkin said she is “still surprised with what God is accomplishing through us.”

The country of Malawi is a little smaller than Pennsylvania, Harvey Thrailkill said. Although it is small, the 13.2 million people who make up the country rank in the top four poorest in the world. With an infant mortality rate of three in 20, the people need help, Thrailkill said.