The Story of Ericka’s Apiary
Global influence with local impact.
“Asali”
| ah’sah’lee | is a beautiful Swahili word for honey.
My husband, Bob, and I spent the better part of a decade learning from and ministering to the Turkana — a tribe in the Northwest part of Kenya, Africa. We savored sweet triumphs and weathered bitter obstacles during those years. But we were often reminded that amazing things are accomplished with teamwork, perseverance, and a little patience.
Bob took up beekeeping, when we returned to Missouri, eager to rekindle a childhood pastime. Bob would come in from the apiary and share the wonders from inside the hive, of communication, their magnificent work with wax and honey, and how they overcome. Before long, I donned the beekeeper suit and goatskin gloves and joined him in the fun. It was absolutely fascinating seeing a glimpse of God's creation and how it functions together!
A new kind of ministry
Bob and I worked bees together for two years. As life became busier and other commitments arose, he stepped away and encouraged me to manage the bees on my own. And Asali Gold was born! What a journey that has been! What began as 4 hives has now blossomed to 20. I've experienced years of abundance and years of loss - both of honey and bees. But the learning never stops, and neither do the bees. I am humbled that this endeavor continues to bless my family, the local community, and in the future globally. It’s a different type of ministry, but a familiar story of teamwork, perseverance, and patience.
A few things I've learned from the bees:
Life is sweeter together.
Much is accomplished when we work toward the same goal.
A little progress by each bee times thousands of beings equals a grand opus.
Each season of our lives has a different job.
Oversee them well, as a pest can come in quickly and destroy all.
“I honor and remember our meaningful time in Kenya each time I work the bees. I hope you find purpose and meaning and joy and sweetness in Asali Gold Honey, just as I do.”
- Ericka
P.S. Most of the Asali Gold honey comes from my own bees. However, I occasionally buy from other local beekeepers who uphold the quality and care standards as I do.
