Paul and Donna Cox, New Mexico & Texas

Paul and Donna served with TWR in Swaziland from 1999-2000, where Paul worked as an engineer and Donna helped with hosting and Sunday school. After pursuing theological training, the Coxes returned to TWR to work in Benin, where they’ve been for one year. Paul is station director and engineer; Donna is an elementary teacher and hostess. Their children are Nehemiah, 11; Micah Joy, 9; and Miriam, 8.

What’s your average day like?

Paul: At 6:30 a.m., I start with e-mails and see how things went during the night [at the site]. Around 7:30, people start showing up at my door. Since TWR does not have an office [here], my home is the office. We all depart for the transmitting site (about 30 minutes away). Ideally, I try to leave around 5 or 5:30 p.m. [and] head home for family time and dinner. Normally between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., people will stop by to take care of TWR business.

Donna: The kids have school from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. After lunch is siesta. The kids then do homework, then play with friends or go swimming. In the afternoons, I host a moms’ group or staff meeting or run errands. The shops are open for a few hours in the mornings, and reopen at 4:30 p.m., so I rush out to pick up a few items. Then it is dinner and family time.

How have you seen at God work?

The biggest miracle is that the broadcasts are airing as of February 1. The first test broadcast aired on Benin’s National Voodoo Day [January 10]! We also have seen God work in our adjustment to life here in Benin. God has provided friends, encouragers and basic medical care when we needed it.

What has been your favorite thing/experience about living in Benin?

Paul: There is a balcony at the transmitting site that has a beautiful view of the bush and the antenna. Normally we eat lunch on the balcony and enjoy the wonderful view.

Donna: The Beninois people love to laugh and are very friendly! We have also been blessed with a small missionary community. We are looking forward to experiencing more of West Africa.

Nehemiah: Building a tree house with the other boy MKs and [our] dads.
Micah Joy: I love learning about the different cultures. I love the people, the market and the animals.
Miriam: Everything! (“You need to understand how absolutely dramatic Miriam can be to fully appreciate this answer,” says Paul.)