Vol
12 ADVENT 2011–LENT 2012 ISSUE.
The Glorious Awakening.
The Mother’s Union Edition
The
2011 Mpeketoni Mother’s Union Conference
The 2011 Mothers’ Union delegates to
the Mpeketoni MU conference in a group photo with Bishop Lawrence Dena and Mama
Rose Kalu in Mpeketoni Secondary School, Lamu.
Over 200 delegates from different parishes were in attendance.
“It is our Christian
duty as women of the church to display a very high degree of mercy and
forgiveness to one another, our children and with the men we live with; we
don’t harbor grudges but pray for them! We should give our husbands allowances
to be human! Eph 4:2 should be our guiding motto “Be kind and compassionate to
one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” Jesus has forgiven us women, let us do the
same for the men. The inside story:
EDITOR’S NOTE
Hello over there! Once again Christmas
is drawing near and we are delighted here at
The Glorious awakenings desk to send our heart felt greetings to you
all, wherever you are and whatever manner you will be celebrating this great
feast of God’s love and hope for mankind!
The year 2011, was full
of life events that were most inspiring in our journey of faith with Christ.
The Clergy and spouses’
conference in Kanamai, mid this year, which has always been such a central part
of our lives as a diocese, brought home more forcibly than ever the
extra-ordinary and wonderful diversity of our witness in the province of Kenya
as Anglicans.
Those of us who were in
Kanamai and Mama Ngina girls will not forget the awesome worship in which the
clergy and their spouses were invited to participate in a such a spectacular
manner, profoundly united in praising God and participating in the Holy
Eucharist. The clergy and their spouses,
the laity and numerous church workers, stood side by side, their hearts and
minds fully focused on that divine love.
The clergy and their
spouses together with other church workers, discovered many new things about
each other as they sat together in small groups, sharing stories of ministry
and mission, from so many different settings within the Mombasa Diocese of the
Anglican Church
The majority of us were really
inspired by the stories of faith and courage from our brothers from USA during
SOMA conference, where resolutions, challenges and conflicts of our faith can
often be so sharp.
On the other hand we
found that the diversity of our experiences and histories brought us into
direct confrontation with life’s realities where draught, famine and disease
have caused great damage and despair. This for most of us is a painful
experience and one which will live with us for a long time.
It is good to say these
experiences are realities of life situations indeed part of family life. As
believers in Christ, we are not immune to challenges and disputes of the world,
and neither should we be expecting to have an easy ride. What we have however is the precious gift as
we face and address the hard questions and tribulations of life. We have the gift of the Baby Jesus as a
symbol of humility and openness and the message of the angel inviting us to
Bethlehem, the House of Bread, don’t be afraid!
We must wrestle with the
realities of life in the world and answer all its questions only if we are
determined to soldier on side by side on life’s journey, remaining humble and
open in our journey. We will be walking in the Spirit and there is nothing to
scare us!
With this flower we
wish all our readers a Merry Christmas and Happy 2012
At this point, we would also like to
remember Reverend Joseph Gichira and the fellowship we had with him, a dear
friend, during our admission into the Holy orders in 2006, and in personal conversation. Sadly this marvelous reverend,
curate at St. Andrew’s Soweto, passed on a few weeks ago; he leaves behind a
widow and several children. By the time
of filing this story, news reached our desk of the passing on of the father of
Rev. William Katam of St. Peter’s Mariakani Parish and Rev. Ndunda of
Machakos. Sadly too Dr J.B. Okanga went
to be with Lord in October 2011. Once again the cruel hand of death has robbed
us our beloved ones.
May they rest in Peace
and rise in Glory
Enjoy your Christmas
Reverend
Kennedy Ofundi.
Editor.
Sub-Editor
Marlene Reid.
© All
rights reserved. No part of this publication will be re-produced without
written permission from the copyright
owner.
THE
MPEKETONI MOTHER’S UNION CONFERENCE!
From 28th August to 1st
Sept 2011, over 200 delegates of the Mothers Union of the Anglican Church,
Mombasa Diocese, gathered in Mpeketoni, Lamu; thanks to the initiative of the
Mothers Union secretariat.
The 200 plus women who
gathered in Mpeketoni, Lamu, came from all corners of the ACK Mombasa Diocese
i.e. the parishes. Thus: Diani, Mariakani, Rabai, Changombe, St.Jame’s Pendeza,
St. John,s Kaloleni, Ganze, Mombasa Memorial Cathedral, St John,s Buxton, St.Luke,s
Makupa, Emmanuel Kengeleni, Emmanuel Changamwe, St.Andrew’s Soweto, St.Faith
Migadini, St Jude Miritini, All Saints Mtwapa, St. James Mishomoroni, St.Paul
Kiembeni, St. Thomas Kilifi, Mnarani, Matsangoni, St.Stephen’s Baamburi,
Shanzu, St.Andrew Malindi, St Andrew Barani, St. Mary’s Maweni, Mjanaheri,
Vitengeni, Marafa, Emmanuel Jilore, St. Stephen’s Dabaso, Gede, Mbaraka Chembe,
Tezo, Bura, Tana River, Mpeketoni (hosts) Lamu and the Mothers Union diocesan secretariat; 50
parishes in total making the attendance 78%. Also in attendance was the bishop
of Mombasa, Julius Kalu, his wife Mama Rose Kalu, the Mother’s Union chaplain
and his wife Rev and Mrs Silas Ndune. It
was a wonderful thing to see all the women of our diocese congregating and
worshipping together. Praising God for their many precious gifts and talents
and partnerships praying for their families, praying for the widows, widowers,
orphans and those with disabilities or with special needs. Praying also for the
problems of drought and famine that have affected many parts of the diocese;
praying for the Church and the needs of the whole world.
The Diocesan Mpeketoni Women’s
Conference, 2011 edition, was shaped by the conferences theme taken from EPH:
4:2: “Be completely humble and
gentle, be patient, bearing with another in love”.
The delegates to the
conference shared testimonies and life experiences, their walk with faith and
commitment to helping one another through prayers, partnership and fellowship.
The women in the
conference enjoyed each others company sharing both joys and set backs;
singing, praising, drama, chasing the chickens with laughter. All the ups and
downs of life, you name them!
The ladies of our
diocese, through their facilitators, Ann Ikucha from Nairobi Diocese, Paulyn
Mbashu from Taita Taveta, Everlyn Manjewa, Ann Ofundi and Sam Maraga all from
Mombasa Diocese engaged in theological discussion and reflected on the topics
they were given to teach the delegates. We, at the same moment, tasted the
warm, wonderful welcome and the hospitality of the Singwaya Church Archdeacon,
Venerable Morris Mwambawa, who together with his wife, cared for us during our
one week stay in his Archdeaconry of Mpeketoni, Lamu. We are at the same time
grateful to the Bishop of Mombasa, Julius Kalu, his wife Mama Rose and Bishop
Lawrence Dena for gracing the occasion. The 200 plus women assembled in
Mpeketoni secondary school, assuming friendship and congeniality, extending
goodwill, bearing one another’s burdens, showing humility to one another, bearing
in mind that they are indeed sharing
faith and values.
“As a prisoner for the Lord, then I
urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely
humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort
to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body
and one Spirit – just as you were called to one hope when you were called
- one Lord, one faith one baptism, one
God and Father of all who is over all and through all and in all”
(EPH: 4:1-6)
The 2011 conference brought together all the
women as friends to share with utmost gratitude their testimonies to the work
of the Holy Ghost in our diocese. The women found out that in this gathering
the presence and power of the Holy Ghost was manifested in our midst through
the ministry of the word by various excellent and gifted speakers.
As a part of the Anglican
Diocese of Mombasa, the women recognized that they are but a small section of
the numerous fellowships which also, in holy and lovely friendship, are taking
place around the diocese, offering themselves as living sacrifices of praise to
edify the body of Christ.
As true Anglicans, guided
by the Holy Spirit and grounded on scripture, coming from a wide range of
contexts and from diverse backgrounds, have chosen to turn to each other in
love, patience and kindness within the body of Christ. It was crystal clear
that commitment to true Christian fellowship has led them to know one another,
discover themselves in each other as women, their role in the churches, the
society and national governance and to depend on their engagement in the
Christian mission and with one another.
CONSTITUTIONAL
RIGHTS FOR WOMEN
During the diocesan Mothers’ Union
conference the women were also sensitized about the rights and roles of women
in the just promulgated new Constitution.
Ann Omusugu took to the
stage and explicitly expounded the just adapted document for all the women to
comprehend. The delegates at the conference comprised of women of diverse
backgrounds varying levels of education and understanding of what the
Constitution is all about.
They learned that a
constitution is simply a set of rules and regulations that govern people. Just
as the Bible acts as a constitution that guides Christians, the constitution is
there to guide and protect the rights of all its citizens.
Quoting from Gen 1:26-31
Mrs Omusugu put it boldly that all people are equal before God, the creator of
all. She said that in article 26 chapter 4 the new Constitution said that every
individual has the right to life; just in the same way the Bible says “thou
shall not kill”. She went on to
reiterate that the Constitution says that human life begins at conception the
way the Bible says in Jeremiah .
The conference was also
told that abortion is not permitted unless it is the otherwise recommended
opinion of a medical expert.
DISCRIMINATION
All human beings are
equal before God and the law and have the right for similar protection before
the law of the land.
There is no gender
discrimination of women against men; men and women have equal opportunities in
politics, culture and other social circles.
Challenged other women
Mrs. Omusgu challenged the MU
delegates to take active roles in church and national leadership as the new
Constitution mandates them to do.
Mrs. Omusugu approached
her topic in a balanced way when mentioning biblical Ruth, Hannah and Esther as
source of value, useful even in today’s world. There were also mythological
figures Athena and Diana who inspire other women.
Historical figures:
Eleanor Roosevelt, Marie
Curie, Mother Theresa and Joan of Arc whose mercy and kindness and sacrifice
and their value for human life are role models to be used in today’s war torn
world.
Women of Today:
Martha Karua, Charity
Ngilu, Winnie Mandela, Bishop Margaret Wanjiru as champions of freedom! The
conference was also told that women should take a leading role in establishment
of small businesses to boost their economic status and to raise living
standards by taking loans from charitable organizations.
Mrs Omusugu speaking
during the conference; women have a role to play in leadership!
As the women listened to each other
during the conference, the realities and issues of parenting, widowhood,
HIV/AIDs, unfaithfulness in marriage and poverty emerged as the gravest
concerns. The women took time to reflect and shared stories of common mission
and fellowship of Jesus Christ that takes different dimensions in different
spheres of life across the entire diocese of Mombasa. The women devoted time to
pray, sharing and reflecting on the aftermath of the institution of parenting
and widowhood. Its legacy touches us all, especially women whose husbands have
gone to be with the Lord.
“We believe it would
be a healing for us, as a church, to engage in broad based ministry to the
widows, and the legacy of widowhood and above everything else to work towards
reconciliation and acceptance of one another”
Pauline Mbashu – Widow. “The Spirit of the Lord is on me because he has
appointed me to preach good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoner and recovery of
sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the
Lord’s favour”. (Luke 4:18.19)
Widowhood
Pauline Mbashu, speaking
to 200 plus delegates at the 2011 edition of the Mother’s Union Conference in
Mpeketoni, Lamu in August 2011; her husband Mbashu passed on in 2006; her
widowhood legacy, lives on.
It is a litmus test; she narrated a
very harrowing experience which widows who fall into the hands of unscrupulous
men who often abuse them for sexual gain and satisfaction.
The church needs to show
compassion and care to widows and orphans. To provide service to widows in
their hardest and most difficult moment in life is a true gesture of the kind
of religion with which our God will find no fault.
Mrs. Pauline reiterated
that, despite the fact that some widows were left comparatively well off; there
is a great need for them to be protected from the unscrupulous, evil minded and
stupid men. During the time of Jesus Christ, during the NT days, one of the
things he condemned was the Pharisees who devoured widows’ houses.
“They devour widow’s
houses and for a show make lengthy prayers. Such men will be punished most
severely” (12:4).
Mrs. Pauline Mbashu, the
widow, a gifted speaker and orator, sent the conference participants into a
frenzy of delirium when she quoted from Psalm 68:5ff.
“A father to the
fatherless, a defender of widows, is God in his holy dwelling. God sets the lonely
in families, he leads forth the prisoners with singing, but the rebellious live
in a sun-scorched land.” Devourers of widows’ houses warned
For unscrupulous men who
are out to devour widows’ homes, the Bible says
“The Lord tears down
the proud man’s house but he keeps the widow’s boundaries intact”
(Proverbs15:25).
Blue! Blue!
Everywhere!
The delegates to the 2011 Mother’s
Union conference in MPEKETONI, Lamu in their blue attire follow up the
proceedings as the assistant Bishop of Mombasa, Lawrence Dena, is giving his
final remarks.
In this picture
(foreground). Mama Rose Kalu with crossed hands; on the left Pauline Mbashu and
on the right is Evelyn Manjewe coordinator, Mombasa.
The challenges posed
for women by HIV/AIDs & Malaria.
Scientific facts:
That HIV & AIDs
are closely related.
The causative agent is
medically referred to as Human Immunodeficiency Virus.
The A.I.D s – crynonym –
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome.
This viral illness
attacks human beings of all ages, hence Human Immuno Deficiency Virus.
The patient can have the
viral load in the bloodstream but have not yet developed the disease. AIDs has no cure at the moment. The
conference learned about abstinence and being faithful. Women are most affected
because of the large number who are widows – their husbands having succumbed to
AIDs.
Malaria
The conference was also sensitized
about Malaria. Malaria is a tropical illness vectored by a mosquito of the
anopheles species - plasmodium being the causative agent. The plasmodium
is categorized into-palciparam, ovale, vivax
and Malaria. Malariae is
the most prevalent of the four. Malaria has a profound effect on pregnant women
causing miscarriages among other serious repercussions. It was recommended
therefore that all expectant women sleep under mosquito nets to avoid risk of
infection.
Some other
complications at birth
Atreacia
This is a disorder
whereby female children are born with blocked reproductive organs. Usually
there is a membrane covering the genital organ. Medically speaking, experts say
it is curable.
Atreacia virginalis refers to virginal blockage whereas atreacia
analis is anal blockage.
Surgical operation is available in all local hospitals.
Samuel Maranga, left,
addressing women in Mpeketoni Lamu. There is great need of all women to give
birth in hospital where we have professional midwives.
Marriage to be honored
My name is Ann Ikucha. I am the
Mother’s Union provincial trainer in charge of coastal region and I’m
privileged to be here. I convey greetings of my Archbishop Wabukala, and from
my husband Ikucha and from Machakos where I was last week. I came to know about
Christ in 1977 when I was a girl and have walked with Jesus since then and I am
indeed humbled to speak to you Mombasa women today, though my Kiswahili is not
all that good. Please bear with me! Amen.
We can get all kinds of
professional training and education in almost all disciplines in our human
existence, but not in MOTHERING!
Unfortunately for us,
there are no such institutions to attend for one to graduate as a mother. All
in all the book of proverbs gives us some tips on how to go about this noble
profession. The seminars, workshops, books and conferences, (like this one),
for parenting abound, yet the question is: Is getting the necessary information
the real solution to better parenting? ‘Hakam’ in Hebrew when
translated to English means ‘wisdom’.
Wisdom is therefore more important than gaining the required information
through intellect. Wisdom does not
necessarily mean gathering of information. The concept behind the word is
mastering the skills of living according to God’s standard of expectations. To
be knowledgeable for that matter is a process of applying the word of God as a
measure and guide for our daily life decision making processes.
Secularly speaking, ‘Hakam’ means
skillful craftsmanship; one who is articulate and skillful in his trade. For a woman, as a mother, to be articulate
and skillful in her trade of motherhood and parenting, she has to learn to
apply God’s divine guidance in every situation.
Aidah Mureith, Bishop’s secretary, chatting with
other women at the tea break during the Mpeketoni Mother’s Union conference,
2011 edition. ”For a mother to be articulate and skillful in her trade of
motherhood and parenting, she has to learn to apply God’s guidance in every
situation” the conference was told.
According to Proverbs
1:3 the fear of the Lord is a necessary prerequisite for knowledge and wisdom;
fear means reverence to God almighty, to show him honor and demonstrate the
utmost respect. Before embarking on a
journey in pursuit of wisdom, of mothering and parenting, first of all we have
to bow down our hearts in reverence to God in total humble submission. Remember
the most important of all the things: a proud and haughty woman cannot receive wisdom!
Participants in a
group photo
Women and other delegates to the 2011
Mpeketoni Mother’s Union Conference in a group photo with Bishop Lawrence Dena
and Mama Rose Kalu. “We would like to know how to be great mothers and
parents; how to have a very successful marriage and to have a fulfilling life
which is divinely guided and full of fun”.
How to minister to
stubborn men
The majority of men in
the world today undergo some sort of disappointment and in the course of their
life get injured. Therefore just like soldier, who goes to war and is at the
forefront, is wounded and injured, a man will at some time be wounded by events
in life, beyond his control. The only way a woman can minister to such a
husband is by being compassionate. Joblessness,
sickness or even death of a beloved one are but some of the wounds a man may
incur in the course of life.
Forgiveness
Men need comfort and
forgiveness from their wives. Men are part of the fallen human race. They are
true human beings. Therefore they are not perfect the way God is. They cannot
provide 100% of all the woman’s needs. There are limitations! The women were
told that they need to see their husbands as human beings; mortal, with
failings and limitations but capable of that which is noble as well as doing
what is best in all situations.
Women waiting
for the bus to take them to their destinations.
Some of the MU delegates waiting for
the bus to take them home. A delegate who did not want her name to be disclosed
asked how bad and irresponsible her husband was? And wanted to leave him!
“For some reasons I had
put some other important men in my life at the expense of my husband! I am
tempted to be rude, unkind and merciless when he does not measure up to my
standard of expectations.”
ANSWER
It is our Christian duty,
as women of the Church, to display every high degree of mercy and forgiveness
to the men we live with. We don’t harbor
grudges! We pray for them! We should make allowances! They are human! Eph 4:2. Let this be your
motto: “Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as
in Christ God forgave you”. Be
completely humble and gentle, be patient, bearing with one another in love.
God has a special calling
for each and every man’s life. Every man has a certain task to perform and
fulfill. As a man is being matured by God, through hard circumstances of his
life, he is being groomed to perform a great task that God himself, has for
him. When at long last he has fully reached the required potential, spiritually
and emotionally, he is able to go beyond himself and accomplish his task.
“God has been teaching
me how unfair, mean, demanding and unkind I was to my husband. I promise to
change” Unanimous.
Bearing each others
burden in love!
The lady in blue, with her luggage on
the head, is Grace Mwashombo, popularly knows as “Under 16” heading towards the
bus after the 2011 edition of the MU, Mpeketoni conference. What does bearing
one another’s burden mean? (See Eph
4.2ft)
All Saints Mtwapa,
Rabai Changamwe sing their hearts out at the conference!
Mother’s Union delegates
to the 2011 edition MU Conference in Mpeketoni Lamu, showing their prowess and
talents, witnessed deliverance to many who were possessed by demons.
Abemedalled! Bishop
Dena,
Bishop Lawrence Dena,
waves goodbye to the delegates of 2011 Mothers Union conference as he drives
back to Mombasa. Bishop Lawrence K. Dena had just arrived the previous night
for the closing ceremony of this annual event which was officially opened by
Bishop Julius Kalu of Mombasa.
Mothers Union Chaplain
The Mother’s Union chaplain, Rev Silas
Ndune and his beloved wife, follow keenly on what is going on before them
during the conference. A lady who was possessed by the evil spirits exploded
with an unscrupulous bang causing commotion to the participants.
The drama is here!
It is not drama but
real! Kadzo, a delegate to the Mpeketoni
Mothers Union Conference dances to the tune of the evil spirits as she is
deeply possessed by powers of darkness.
Speaking in a strange language!
Bewilderment is what everybody felt!
Look at the eyes!
A picture speaks a
thousands words, completely under the influence of the evil spirit and demons!
Ministry team in
action!
The ministry team to the 2011 MU
conference, led by MU Chaplain, in action, exorcising demons from those
possessed. Many of them came to confess Christ. This was a spirit filled
conference!
Tears of repentance.
This lady delegate to the
Mpeketoni MU conference shed tears of repentance after living in a life of
darkness for many many years. It was
such an explosive conference as you can see!
Holy Spirit in action
During the Mother’s Union
conference, the Holy Spirit took control of everything; Rev. Silas Ndune is
seen ministering to this delegate during the occasion. Other ministry team members are backing him
up. In ministry there is nothing so
important as team work and team spirit!.
Meet the facilitators
of the conference.
The 2011 MU conference attracted a
total of 5 facilitators. These came from Nairobi, Taita Taveta and Mombasa.
The five day curriculum
included the following key areas. HIV/AIDs, (Sam Maraga), Women and the
Constitution (Ann Ofundi), Parenting ( Ann Ikucha), Christianity and Culture (
Evelyn Manjewa) and Widowhood, ( Pauline Mbashu).
L to R standing: Eve.
Manjewa, (Christianity and Culture) Ann Ikucha, (Parenting) Ann Ofundi, (Women
and the Constitution) Juliet, MU coordinator and Pauline Mbashu, (Widowhood).
On the extreme right is Ven. Mwambawa, Bishop Lawrence Dena and Mama Rose Kalu.
Clergy spouses with
the Bishop
The Mpeketoni MU
conference was also spiced and blended with a very good turn up of the clergy
spouses from all over the Mombasa Diocese. Here they pose for a group photo
with Bishop Lawrence Dena and Mama RoseKalu, Margaret Ng’anga, Mrs Muramba, Mrs
Chambia, Mrs Manjewa, Mrs Ofundi, Mrs Antony to name but a few.
The three sisters.
Mrs Elizabeth Oyaro, wife of Rev.
Richard Oyaro, with two friends, in their blue uniform just before the
conference ended. They are fond of each
other and are popularly known as the “three sisters”.
Bishop’s blessing on
the delegates.
The Rt. Rev Lawrence
Dena, the assistant Bishop of Mombasa, raises his hand to bless the delegates
to the 2011 Mpeketoni Mothers’ Union conference moments after its closure and
before they boarded their bus back to their homes.
“The peace of God
which surpasses all understanding, keep your hearts and minds in the love of
God, and the blessings of God almighty…….”
Stepping out in style!
A delegate to the 2011 edition at the
Mpeketoni Mothers’ Union conference, Fans Khamla, from St. Stephen’s Bamburi,
is seen stepping out in style after the conference, raring to go places.
Khamala had just returned from Kampala Uganda, from another conference similar
to this one.
Cultural issues.
Reverend Capt. Evelyn Manjewa
addresses the conference participants on the topic of ‘Christianity and
Culture’. Some cultural practices die
hard and are primitive and repugnant to Biblical teachings. Some are burial and
funeral rites, wife inheritance, the visitation to the graveyards and pouring
of libations to appeal the ancestral spirits.
Women with their bags
and baggage!
The women, after the
conference, with the phobia of excitement, raring to go back their home
destinations with all their bags and baggage!
This lady seen with a
pumpkin on her head, carrying her burden in traditional style! Yet the
conference theme was bearing each others burdens. “Come to me, all you who are
weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn
from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart and you will find rest for your
souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden
is light”. (Mt. 11.28)
The delivered
ones!
The 2011 MU Mpeketoni conference
redeemed a lot of casualties from the devil!
The Holy Spirit manifested himself to this woman in a very special
way. The ministry team led by Rev. Silas
Ndune had a very glorious moment in praying and laying hands on them. They pose
in a group photo with the ministry team.
The Conference Banner.
The conference banner,
pitched outside Mpeketoni Secondary School entrance speaks for itself.
The theme: bearing one another’s burden in love.
Inside view of the
conference hall
Many, many women! Blue!
Blue! Everywhere! The delegates to the
2011 edition of the Mothers’ Union Mpeketoni conference in their blue attire,
with white veils on their heads, while the conference was in progress. The speaker was a young orator Samule Maranga
from St. Paul’s Rabai, speaking about community health.
Expectant
women to seek professional help!
Pregnant women ought to give birth in
hospitals where there are trained professional midwives. In case of birth
complications, the best place to be is near a qualified midwife. Mr Maranga
told the participants in Mpeketoni that there is a tendency for women only to
rush to hospital after complications arise during delivery. He said in some
cases this may be too late to help the expectant mother. He emphasized that
statistics show that the number of births requiring surgical operation has gone
up. If such cases arise when a patient looks for alternative treatment thus
wasting time, there would be no way of saving the child and the mother.
Bishop and clergy who
turned up for the conference.
The Bishop of Mombasa, Julius Kalu, (2nd
right) Ven Mwambawa, (right), Archdeacon Sungwaya and Vicar Mpeketoni, MU
Chaplain, Rev. S. Ndune (2nd left) and Rev. Philip Mbuthia (far
left) were some of the clergy who turned up for the conference. The Bishop of
Mombasa, Julius Kalu, opened the conference with a Euchanstic service.
Rewarding the
outstanding ones!
“Now there is in store for me the crown
of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge will award me on that day
– and not only to me, but also to all
who have longed for his appearing” ( 2 Tm 4: 8)
The Bishop of Mombasa,
Julius Kalu, being complimented by MU delegates after officially opening and
gracing the occasion.
Bishop Lawrence K.
Dena.
The conference curtains
came down with grace, just the way it began with a humble hope that the 2011
edition of this conference will have made a big difference to the Mothers’
Union delegates; to their faith, as they go back home and practice what has
been taught here.
Bishop Dena being
rewarded for his choice of words of wisdom to MU delegates!
“Run in such a way as to
get the prize. Everyone who competes in games goes into strict training. They
do it to get a crown that will not last; but we do it to get a crown that will
last forever. Do I fight like a man
beating the air? No, I beat my body and
make it my slave so that after I have preached to others. I myself will not be
disqualified for the prize” (1 Cor. 9: 24)
Facilitators honoured!
How wonderful is it to work with
considerate and appreciative women such as these? What a good thing to compliment others
especially those who have worked so hard for us and shaped our destiny.
Pauline Mbashu receiving
a gift from Mrs. Habil Chambia,
The communication man was
also honoured. I felt I have done totally
nothing to deserve this gift! May be someone else?
Rev. Silas Ndune
“Those who sow in tears
will reap with songs of joy. He who goes
out weeping, carrying seed to sow, will return with songs of joy carrying
sheaves with him” (Psalm 126:5-6).
A face devoured by a
stroke!
In the course of the conference, as
already seen, the Holy Spirit was at work.
This lady was healed after the ministry team led by Rev. Silas Ndune
laid hands upon her. Her face was devastated by stroke! Now she can speak
without much difficult. She said after interview.
St. John’s Buxton
Delegates to the 2011 MU
Mpeketoni conference from St. John’s Buxton in a group photo at the close of
the conference with their Vicar who is also the Mothers’ Union chaplain, Rev.
S. Ndune. Note that this was also the ministry team that God used to bring
transformation to the delegates and deliver them from the chains of Satan.
MU Chaplain with
facilitators
The Mothers’ Union
chaplain, Rev. Silas Ndune, in a group photo with some of the facilitators,
after the conference. Paulyn Mbashu (with specs) from Taita Taveta and Ann
Ikucha from Nairobi.
Spot the difference!
Ladies in the different blue attire
together with Mama Rose Kalu in Mpeketoni Lamu.
What different blues can you
spot? They were so nice! Blue symbolizes the color of the sky while white is
the symbol of purity.
The Kisauni team with Bishop Dena and Mama
Kalu.
Nicest baby of them
all!
We were privileged to
have this toddler crawling right near where Bishop Dena was. A delegate from
St. Andrews Soweto!
View of Lake Kenyatta.
Mpeketoni has a fresh water lake
called Lake Kenyatta. The lake provides fresh water fish for the local
population. There are also plenty of river horses here! Hippos by another name
or the river horse. It isn’t safe to swim in this water!
Mpeketoni mega facts:
Economic activities
Cotton
The Mpeketoni Christians
are predominantly farmers and cattle herders.
The major cash crop grown
is short staple cotton, the variety for the coastal climate which is characterized
by its short fibre. Horticulture farming
is also practiced. The oxen are used as beasts of burden. The humpbacked Zebu
species of cows are also found here.
APPRECIATION
The glorious awakening editorial team
is very much grateful to the diocesan Mothers’ Union secretariat for the gifts
offered by Mama Rose Kalu, Jane Dena, Eunice Mupe and Victoria Kalama. Sincere thanks to the coordinators: Juliet
Mwambire, Rev. Capt Evelyn Manjewa and Grace Mwashumbo for facilitating and
resourcing for the success of the conference. We also recognize the great
talent exhibited by our facilitators; especially those from Nairobi and Taita
Taveta.
We are also grateful to
all the parishes, friends and individuals who as well cooperated to fund the
conference. We offer special tributes to
the Mpeketoni Christians, in particular the Venerable Moris Murenje Mwambawa
and his wife who offered us hospitality and kindness. We appreciate the two
Bishops of Mombasa, Julius Kalu and Lawrence Dena for accepting to grace the
occasion despite their heavy episcopal duties. In grace and peace--editors
Eunice Mupe, the chairlady of the organizing
committee of the conference, addressing the participants in Mpeketoni Lamu
moments before the conference officially closed. She paid a glowing tribute, on behalf of the
committee, to the two Bishops of Mombasa - Kalu and Dena and to all other
invited delegates as well.
Mama Rose Kalu is seen responding to
questions from the delegates during the conference. A good organizer, humble, and
patient with very few words.
Shining Lights at
Night!
The three lights signify
Jesus as the bright morning star and the Trinitarian God. It was praising and singing all through the
dark night; what a wonderful occasion it was for all the women of our diocese!
On a ‘feminine’
motorbike!
The women during the
conference offered the communication officer their shopping motor bike to
facilitate his movement to reach the scene of news in time. Pray with me this prayer:
“Our heavenly and loving Father, we do
not get because we do not know how to ask. Teach us oh Father the right choice
of words to bring our supplications to you for consideration. Gold and silver
belong to you loving Father. It isn’t
good at all for your communications officer to travel on this ladies’ shopping
motor bike. Loving and caring FATHER
provide for your servant a means to honor and glory of your name. Amen.”
Confirmation Service
in Nyali!
The Bishop of Mombasa,
Julius Kalu, visited the parish of St. Peter’s Nyali, at the invitation of the
parish Vicar Rev. Dr. Dorcas Kiundu, during the 9th week in
Pentecost for a confirmation, baptism and commissioning service as part of his
pastoral duties to the diocese.
During the occasion
Bishop Kalu, who was in the company of his wife Mama Rose Kalu, conducted one
adult baptism of Samson Ngetich, admitted five members to partake in the Holy
Sacraments, and commissioned 6 women evangelists to take the gospel of Christ
to the unreached communities in Kwale. During
his address to the St.Peter’s Christians, the Bishop conveyed the message of
goodwill from Israel, the Holy Land, where he had just made his 2nd
pilgrimage. He reiterated how he was able to beat all odds by climbing Mt.
Sinai, for 8 hours at night. Bishop Kalu was very empathetic when he encouraged
Christians to at least visit the Holy Land once in their life time. When you visit the Holy Land, your faith will
never be the same again said the bishop.
The Bishop at the same
time apologized that the bishop of Burundi had not turned up for the service as
he was expected to be the chief missioner of the day at Nyali. This was due to plane mishaps.
If you like our prayer
call now on 0727 898119.
CONFIRMATION
IN NYALI!
Confirmation candidates
facing the congregation
The five confirmation candidates face
the congregation .They are Joshua Nyamori, Wilson, Marnu, Brian and Maina.
The day St. Peters was
decked out by blue!
This was the rarest
moment for St. Peter’s Nyali during which
her daughters dressed in blue! The newly commissioned members of the Mothers’
Union look very smart in their blue attire during the service on Sunday the 9th
week after Pentecost. Their names are
:Monica Abwao, Grace Tswala, Lucy
Onyango, Gladys Nanyala, Lucy Mdango, Juliet Mwakio, Priscila Mureithi,
Judy Luballo, Alice Anika, Rachael Kariuki, Joy Ndani, Joan Ouma and Lucy
Anyang.
Baptism
Bishop Kalu marks a sign of the cross
on the forehead of baptismal candidate,
Samson Ngetech, in Nyali in August
2011. “We received this person into
the congregation of Christ’s flock and marked him with the sign of the cross”.
Women and the Bishop
The newly commissioned
members of the MU, pose for a group photo with the Bishop of Mombasa, Julius
Kalu, immediately after the service. The women pledged their loyalty to God and
to being faithful and submissive to their husbands.
The Jadini Christians
The Jadini Christians
were not left behind during the commissioning of the ACK women team in Nyali.
Here with the Bishop from L to R: Lucy Waigwe Njau, Virginia, Bishop Kalu and
Ann Omusugu. The two Christians came from Annabelle Chapel in Jadini Parish.
JADINI NEWS!
Edith Matiba at the
Pulpit
During the 19th week of
Pentecost, our guest speaker in Jadini Chapel was Mrs. Edith Matiba or Mama
Susan as she is popularly known.
Edith, a soft spoken
humble woman of God, with a golden voice took her hearers by surprise using a
teacher style of approach to her subject; she was worth listening to and
emulating.
Edith elaborated on the
subject of anxiety; she demonstrated to us that we should all, herself
included, cast all our burdens onto Christ Jesus. She made reference to Mathew
6:25, Philippians, 1:6 and Luke 10:38.
It was a spirit-filled service in Jadini! After the mass, the ladies of our church
spent the rest of the hours planning and fellowshipping together. Edith is the
wife of Mr. Kenneth Matiba, director of Alliance group of hotels at the coastal
region of Kenya.
We wish our candidates
the best in exams
The third academic term
is with us again. This is also an examination trimester whereby students of
different grades take exams that will determine their future.
It is good thing for all
parents, teachers and students to pause and look back to see what they have
achieved so far.
To the KCPE and KCSE
candidates, here is wishing you all the best of luck in your exams. Please do
not involve yourself in any kind of exam malpractice or leakage. The penalty
can be devastating. The best of luck to you all children!
Vicar – with Jadini
candidates at the beginning of the third term.
Kudo as A.S Retires
Mr. Edward Kaindhi pictured,
Administrative Secretary of Mombasa Diocese, will retire from active church
service on 31st Dec. 2011. Mr. Kaindhi is aged 61 and has served as
the A.S Mombasa Diocese for exactly 5 years. It is also worth mentioning here
other clergy who are in the same pursuit for retirement, by the end of the year
are Richard Oyaro of All Saints Mtwapa and Rev. Reuben Tawa, Kasidi Parish.
These retirements are preceded by the retirement of Rev. Donald Ngome of
Pendeza Parish. May they retire in peace! “I have fought a good fight, kept the
faith and won the race”
Mr. Edward Kaindhi was
appointed as A.S Mombasa Diocese in 2006 and was privileged to work under
Bishops Julius Kalu and Laurence Dena.
Prior to that, Mr.
Kahindhi who is an educationalist served in the Department of Education for
many years, therefore coming to the position of A.S. with many years of
experience in the field of education.
He was born in Sokoke and
educated at Sokoke Primary and Mombasa High Schools.
He graduated from Shanzu
TTC on 3rd January 1972 with a P1 certificate in primary education.
Between 1972-1975 Mr.
Kaindhi was the deputy head teacher of Majaoni Primary School in Bahari
division and was thereafter head teacher of Ribe primary school.
In Sept 1984-1988 he was
promoted to the Teacher Advisory Centre and became an A.P.S I, area primary
school inspector. In 1992, Mr. Kahindi
became Assistant Educational officer, Kilifi.
Mr. Kaindhi is also the
chairman of Mudzongoloni High School, Muungano Water Project and the
coordinator of a girls education promotion programme based in Germany as well
as being Vicar’s Warden of Tezo Parish.
CCMP: PASTORS REPORT BACK
THE PROGRESS!
For the five years that Mr. Kaindhi
has served in this diocese as A.S his tenure has been characterized by hard
work and he reminded the clergy to perform their duties well. He hates lazy and
redundant people.
During his term as A.S
the number of parishes has gone up from 54 to 61, while the number of clergy
has risen from 60 to 80. The central
payment system of parishes came in to practice during his time. He is a man who
believes in discipline and performance of duty.
Mr. Kahindhi is a father
of 6, 4 girls and 2 boys, and a grandfather as well. He intends to be a county
representative for Kilifi after retirement. We wish him long life after his
retirement!
Focus on C.C.M.P.P
Pastors report back
the progress.
Q. What. do the abbreviations C.CM.P
stand for?
A. C.C.M.P means Church Community
Mobilization Process.
Q. What is all this
about?
A. It is empowering the
people in the church to holistically transform their situation using the
available God-given resources.
Q. How is this done
and how can it be achieved?
A. This is done through foundational
BIBLE studies one to five, aimed at bringing the great awakening to the church
to rediscover its potential and realize its mandate as the salt and light of
the world.
Q. Please clarify the
Five Foundational Bible Studies you mentioned.
A. ‘God’s Purpose for
Mankind’ (Bible Study 1), ‘New Creation’ - Isaiah, 65:17-65 (Bible Study 2),
‘Pictures of the Church’ - Peter 2:4-12 (Bible Study 3), ‘The Ministry of
Jesus’ - Mathew 3:12,-4:17 (Bible Study 4) and finally ‘Church as Salt and
Life’ (Bible Study 5).
Q. How many piloting congregations are
currently involved in this process?
A Thirty: Fifteen from Mombasa Diocese and fifteen from
Taita Taveta Diocese . The program started last October and I am glad to bring
a comprehensive report from the performing parishes which you can read here:
Ribe: Charlotte
K’ngombe Mangi.
Ordained both deacon and
priest in Mombasa after graduating from Bishop Hannington seminary in
2005. She is the vicar in charge, Ribe
parish.
Charlotte answered all
her questions concisely and comprehensively; she is a gifted speaker with a
sober mind and a clear memory.
Reverend Charlotte reported that since the inspection
of C.C.M.P after conducting Bible study 1 and 2 there is an improvement of offering
and tithes from 700-2500 and from 500-3000. People are learning to give back to
the Lord.
St. Mary’s Mater
-Taita Taveta Diocese
The Vicar is Rev.
Matthias Letiaki who graduated from BH1 in 2010 and was made deacon the same
year.
The C.C.M.P program has
catalyzed his congregants to complete the diocesan quota of shs. 20,000
and also to construct pit latrines for
the church. This was after completing Bible Study 1 (God’s Purpose for
Mankind). The Sunday offerings have so far gone up from shs. 19000 to 28000
between May and June 2011. The parish is also looking forward to buying a
motorbike through this process. Insufficient reading materials, like bibles,
and other Christian literature are of the deepest concern.
Reverend Joys Kirimi
Rev Joys Kirimi is the curate in
charge of ACK St.Andrew’s, Malindi Parish.
After completing Bible Study Number 1, the curate reported tremendous
progress in her station where a kindergarten and a primary school has already
been established. Agro forestry farming
is striding ahead. Rev. Joys reported that over 3000 mango trees were planted
last season! Bishop Kalu secondary
school opened its gates early in the year!
As far as infrastructural
facilities go; bridges have been constructed to make travelling much
easier. On giving; offerings now range
between Shs. 1500-3000 as compared to Shs. 500 previously. The Rev. is expecting to purchase a Toyota
vehicle by the end of the year. Some of
the challenges she faced are language barriers as she is not very conversant
with the local languages and this also being a male dominated society most of
the men look at her with chauvinistic minds, their attitude being “What can a
woman tell us”.
The Venerable Benard Mwasi
The Venerable Benard
Mwasi is the Archdeacon of Kasighau Archdeaconry in Taita Taveta Diocese. He is
also the Vicar Maungu Parish.
The Archdeacon reported,
after Bible Study 1, the development of several cell groups in his parish. He
said that the majority of Bible study attendants are women who have taken the
initiative to pray for one another and encourage each other in the Lord. The
youths managed to purchase the public address system while the Mothers’ Union
started a brick laying project to build a hostel.
Concerning means of travel: Shs 42000 has been raised to facilitate the
purchase of a van.
There is an accelerated church growth
from 50-80 members within a span of very few months. There are 8 parishes in
total within Kasighau Archdeaconry. C.C.M.P has catalyzed Christian potential
towards church growth.
REV MANYOKI
The
Vicar Ngarighashi Parish in Taita Taveta Diocese of the Anglican Church.
Ngarighshi
parsh is on the boarder of Kenya and the Republic of Tanzania.
The
parish vicar, Reverend Manyoki, graduated from BHI, with a diploma in theology
from St.Pauls Theological College in 2002 and he is ordained both deacon and
priest of Taita Taveta Diocese.
He
joined the CCMP programmers last November and he is now exactly one year into
the process. He has a congregation of a around 350 people, most of whom
are peasant farmers, civil servants, business people and shop attendants.
The
vicar reported to us that his parish giving per Sunday is now between Shs
15,000-20,0000 and has continued to stabilize ever since the programme started.
The parish too has one outpost church with 8 cell groups that gather every
Monday between 4 to 6pm for evening fellowships.
Rev. Lois Mbela:
ACK Kaloleni Parish,Voi.
ACK Kaloleni, Voi, is along the
Nairobi Mombasa highway in Taita Taveta Diocese. Rev Lois Mbela is the vicar in charge of the
parish. Despite a very busy itinerary Rev. Lois was able do Bible Study 1,
(God’s Purpose for Mankind) and Bible Study 2 (A New Creation).
Between January and July
2011 there was tremendous increase in church attendance from 20 to 120. The
giving also went up from Shs. 3000-10,000 per Sunday! Her quota allocation is Shs 31,000. The Christians were also able to purchase a
piece of land to erect a church at the centre of the Islamic zone. By June,
Shs. 120,000 had already been raised to start the construction work. They managed also to train 10 CO facilitators
so as to make her work easier. Brick
laying industry is now in process so as to utilize the local resources. We wish her good luck!
Reverend Maria Nambua
- ACK Mwakitau.
Rev. Maria is vicar of
Mwakitau Parish. Mwakitau Parish
boarders Tsavo West National Park in Taita Taveta Diocese. Reverend Maria graduated from Church Army
Africa with a diploma in Bible Missions in 2007 and was made deacon in the same
year.
She was priested in 2007 after which
she served in Warugha Parish for one and a half years before being transferred
to Mwakitau Maria affirms that the Mwakitau Christians have set goals and
priorities in the parish. Members,
through C.C.M.P. Foundational Bible Studies have been challenged to help pupils
continue with their studies by helping them to pay their fees and by buying
some of the learning materials. A
poultry keeping project has been a success as a dozen eggs every day are
available for the church. .
There is a challenge of
human and wildlife conflicts in the parish as it boarders the national park.
Elephants and baboons destroy crops and even life. The vicar works closely with KWS to alleviate
this menace. The area is also dry with
poor drainage patterns.
Rev. Alex Mwasi: St.
Francis Mwambota
The Vicar is Rev. Alex
Mwasi! Alex graduated from Bishop
Hannington Institute in 2007 with a diploma in theology from St. Paul’s University, Limuru . He was ordained deacon and priest in Taita
Taveta Diocese in 2007 and 2011 respectively.
The vicar reported the planting of 1000 tree seedlings as part of the
ongoing afforestation process during the April long rainy season. The youth,
through C.C.M.P., have been able to purchase a public address system and a
generator to provide power for the church.
It can also be leased out for commercial purposes.
There is an improved
relationship between Christians as they no longer look at each with suspicion
over witchcraft and sorcery! Alex
reports that witchcraft and food poisoning are generally very common in his
area of operation.
There is care for people
living with HIV/AIDs and concern for their welfare! Agnes Kazungu is one of those who came to
Christ on 15/5/2011.
Another challenge is a troop of 4000
baboons that threaten members especially those coming for Bible studies. He
says there are proposals of belling of the baboons to scare them from damaging
crops. There is also a need to grow crops which cannot be destroyed by baboons
like amaranth species.
Rev. Noel Mwachofi:
ACK Mulundunyi Parish
ACK Mulundunyi is in
Taita Taveta Diocese in the archdeaconry of Kighambo. Rev. Noel Mwachofi is the Vicar. Noel was
ordained deacon in 2010 after graduating from Bishop Hannington Institute with
a diploma in theology gained in 2008.
After doing Bible Study 1, his parish now has 16 cell groups divided
into 7 home fellowships. He says there is an increased Bible study interest
among his congregants and the use of the Book of Common Prayer (BCP). The understanding of the church seasons,
following the Anglican liturgical calendar, cannot be over emphasized. Fifteen
songs from Nyimbo Standard have so far been recorded in vernacular (Dawida)! Church attendance increased from 70 – 110 people;
20% are elderly between ages 70-90 yrs.
Rev. James Karisa:
St.Jude Miritini
The Rev James Karisa is
the Vicar of Miritini Parish, ACK Mombasa Diocese. St.Jude Mirtini is situated along
Mombasa-Nairobi Highway within Mombasa archdeaconry. Rev James Karisa graduated from Pwani
International College in 2003 and was then ordained and priested in 2004 and
2005 respectively. He started the C.C.M.P. programme in Miritini Parish in
2010! He has a congregation of approximately 300 Christians. The parish has
been able to buy a motor bike through C.C.M.P. He reported that a special kitty
has been established to help the needy in the parish!
The youth together with
the women are beginning to take an active role in church fellowships. He says firmly that there is an irregular
Bible study attendance and notorious late arrival as most are employees who
come very late from their work stations.
Hannington Mkale:
Mbale
Rev. Hanington Mkale is
the Area Dean Mbale Deanery and the vicar of Mbale Parish in Taita Taveta
Diocese. Hannington is an ordained
priest in Taita Taveta Diocese with several years experience in parish
work. He has been an active student ever
since the inception of CCMP last November.
Rev. Hanington Mkala is a soft spoken humble pastor with a very thematic
approach to CCMP and other parish issues.
He remarks that since
CCMP inception and after conducting Bible studies, members were challenged and
moved to raise Shs. 120,000 to purchase a motor bike and there are prospects of
raising money to purchase a church van.
Between January and June
2011, offerings shot up from Shs. 25,000 to 70,000 following the mandate to be
‘salt and light’ to the world!
Peter Mwangi
Maina:Tezo
Peter Mwangi Maina is the
Vicar of Tezo Parish and the Area Dean
Tsangalaweni Deanary. He is an ordained
priest in Mombasa Diocese! He graduated
with a diploma in theology from Bishop Hannington in 2001.
The word ‘Tezo’ is a Giriama word
which means ‘something difficult’!
Christians, through CCMP, are realizing the need to own their
church. A Christian donated ½ an acre
piece of land for the church! The
difficult thing, as the name Tezo suggests, is that peasant farmers find it
difficult to come to Bible study due to complex farming programmes dictated by
the busy farming season. Reverend Peter
Maina said that that CCMP awakens members and as the awakened ones they awaken
others in turn. There is an improvement in offerings and giving from Shs. 200 –
1000 by June 2011. The progress is steadfast!
Rev. Juliet Olando:
Manyimbo Parish
The new name of this
Parish is St. John’s Buxton. The St. John Buxton or Manyimbo Parish is situated
in Buxton, Mombasa. It is next to CITC
and shares an entrance with Bishop Hannington Bible College in Mombasa Island
Deanery, Mombasa Archdeaconry.
Rev. Juliet Olando is the
curate at Manyimbo Parish after her graduation from the BHI in 2000. CCMP has
catapulted the Manyimbo Christians through Foundational Bible Studies! So far the Buxtonians have been able to
purchase a 60m barbed wire fence to fence the church compound at the cost of
Shs. 24,000. Tithing has also gone up
from Shs. 70,000 per Sunday to Shs. 160,000.
Offerings have also improved tremendously from Shs. 30,000 to Shs.
70,000.
Rev. Juliet says that CCMP has
necessitated the birth of a serious bible study with a new look at Buxton
Manyimbo Parish. The challenge is the
middle class group of Christians who cannot make it to Bible study in time due
to tight programmes at their work places.
She was very concise and articulate in her in presentation despite many
questions from other C.CMP members.
Rev. Bernard Kilonzo:
St Mark’s Kishushe
Reverend Bernard Kilonzo
is the Vicar Kishushe Parish in Taita Taveta Diocese.
Rev. Kilonzo graduated
from Church Army Africa and was ordained deacon in 2010 and got married in
April 2011. He joined CCMP last November
and has been active since then. CCMP,
through Foundational Bible Studies has inspired church members to put piped
water in the church compound. The Sunday
offerings which used to range between Shs.500-900 a month now range between
Shs. 2,500 – 3,000 per month. The plans are at advanced stage to have a major
fundraiser in August this year.
Capt. Rev. Benson
Safari wa Charo: St. Michael & All Angels, Kwale
St. Michael and All
Angels is in Kwale. The Vicar of St
Michael and All Angels is Capt. Rev.
Benson Safari wa Charo. Capt Safari is a
graduate from Church Army Africa with a Diploma in Bible and Missions. He is ordained deacon and priest of Mombasa
Diocese. By April 2011 the St.Michael
and All Angels’ Christians received positively the C.C.M.P programme! The report says that this has led to the
development of home-based fellowships and cell groups.
St Michael through CCMP, the work shop
was told, is to host the missionaries who will be coming all the way from
Nairobi, in Sept 2011.
There is a good report on
improved tithing and giving and restored relationships among the Christians.
Rev. Charles
Herya: Lamu Parish
Rev. Charles Herya is the
Vicar of Church of the Good Shepherd in Lamu Parish. Lamu Island is on the northern eastern part
of the coastal region of Kenya on the Indian Ocean.
Rev. Herya graduated from
Pwani Bible College in November 2001 and was ordained deacon the same
year. Lamu Parish has a sister/daughter
church called Mathews Hindi.
The vicar joined the CCMP
programme last November and has been at the fore front ever since. The Pastor testifies that Christians have so
far accepted to construct a church with a seating capacity of over 250 people
at St. Mathews Hindi. The growing of
trees for commercial purposes is moving ahead!
The casuarinas species of trees are the ones being cultivated so far by
the C.C.M.P Bible study members at their own homes.
Human and wild life
conflict is a major menace in the area i.e. baboons and monkeys. Elephants and lions in Witu forest also pose
a great threat to human life!
Rev. Gibson Ndune: St.
Andrew’s Hola
Rev Gibson Ndune is the vicar at
St.Andrew’s! Hula-hula is in Shungwaya
Archdeaconry, Mombasa Diocese. Gibson
Ndune graduated from Pwani Bible College with a diploma in theology and is
currently undergoing C.C.M.P training.
Rev Gibson has a congregation of 40 people who positively received the
C.C.M.P teaching.
The giving which was
between Shs. 500-1000 per Sunday has shot up to Shs. 2–3,000. So far the
members have donated 2000 building blocks towards church construction. The prospects are high as there is a big
question. I am to have a major funds drive in 9th October this year!
The vicar reported that
there were insufficient Bibles amongst his members and appealed for help in
this area. He said only 10 people so far have Bibles in Hola Parish. There is
need for Bibles in Vernacular language i.e. Orma / Pokomo apart from English.
Rev. Gibson is a soft spoken man of pragmatic and is very time conscious!
“C.C.M.P has come at
the right time as a tool to fight poverty and accelerate the church for
holistic ministry”. One member remarked.
Eliakim Mwarigha:
C.C.S Bamba
C.C.S Bamba meets at ACK
Bamba for CCMP Bible study. Eliakim Mwarigha, the CCS staff member in charge of
the Bamba area. Eliakim is an agriculturalist by profession having graduated
from Edgerton University, Njoro.
A total of 60 people
gather at ACK Bamba every week for Bible study. The Bamba Christians have so
far discovered the importance of CCMP Bible study and its impact on their daily
lives.
Mr. Mwarigha says that
the challenges he faces during Bible study is irregular attendance by members
due to other duties. However the
progress is steady and has a future.
CCMP:
AND OTHER STORIES!
Anna Mwachafi and
Nicky Karisa: Tsangalaweni
Tsangalaweni is in Kilifi county,
Mombasa Diocese. The C.C.S staff in
charge of C.C.M.P. and Bible Study are Anna Mwachafi and Nicky Karisa.
The role of CCS is to
help the needy in the Church and the community.
In Tsangalaweni what
hampers the CCMP Bible study progress is funerals and the inconsistency of
bible study members. There is a great
need for the Tsangalaweni pastor to be incorporated in CCMP programme to
undergo its basic training. The C.CS
staff are very committed to their work.
Burning of sins of
commission and omissions
During the SOMA
conference at Mama Ngina Girls School in August, our friends from USA and
Nairobi, in a repentance service, for the clergy and their spouses, confessed
their sins of omission and commission.
These were confidentially written individually on a piece of paper and
then burned to ashes. They ranged from
slander, malice to immorality among others.
Rev. Karanja ensures
everything burns to ashes with fervent heat as the clergy watch during a
repentance and Eucharistic service. The
absolution is the pronouncement of forgiveness of sins by the priest to the
sinner. The priest too needs absolute repentance to be free from the YOKE of
sin.
“And the devil, who deceived them, was
thrown into the lake of burning sulphur, where the beast and the false prophet
had been thrown. They will be tormented day and night forever and ever” (Rev
20:10)
Flames of burning
sulphur!
Everything will melt with
fervent heat and radiation; to be completely finished till nothing is left!
Accuser of brothers.
Many of us were really
inspired by the stories of faith and courage from our brothers from Nairobi and
USA, where challenges and conflicts to the resolution of our faith often become
so sharp. “For the accuser of our brothers, who accuses them before our God,
day and night has been hurled down. They overcame him by the blood of the lamb
and by word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to
shrink from death”. (Rev. 12.10-11)
Smoke of burning
sulphur.
He will be tormented with burning
sulphur in the presence of the holy angels and the Lamb; and the smoke of their
torment rises forever and ever! There is no rest day or night for those who
worship the beast and his image or for anyone who receives the mark of his
name.
The Baboon’s and
Monkey’s Conference!
The baboon’s and monkey’s
conference was held in Jadini Parish weeks before Pentecost 2011.
More than 20 baboons and
monkeys came. The primate cousins of the baboons, vervet and colobus monkeys
were in attendance. This is something that
hardly ever happens and it made a spectacular scene.
It was very difficult to
establish what these primates were discussing.
Perhaps they were plotting to attack the vicar of the parish for not
giving them food. The baboons, led by the monkeys of the vervet species, found
time to relax and sit on the vicar’s chairs while the vicar was on a pastoral
mission to his Christians! Some sat on
top of the tables, while others were in the library reading the books. Immediately the vicar arrived back, it was chaos
and confusion all over.
The colobus monkey, the
more disciplined species of the primates, remained on top of the trees to
observe what damage the stubborn baboon and the vervet monkeys were doing to
the parish vicar.
Baboons and monkeys are very stubborn
and destructive creatures and they do not have respect for people especially
women.
They move around in large
troops and destroy or eat almost anything that happened to lie in their path.
Isn’t that interesting?
In groups of three!
Talking to each other! What could they be saying?
Sitting on the vicar’s
chair addressing each other.
Baboons’ family
This family of three
relaxes outside vicar’s house waiting for food to be brought.
Father, Mother and
Baby!
They are going to find
out if the Vicar is in or not. If not,
then the day is in their favor. They can do what they want, especially if the
gate is open! Note how the baby clings
right under the breast of the mother for protection. Usually the female is more
hostile than the male, protecting her young.
The Glorious Awakening
Magazine is specifically published for the enlightenment of the Christian
family and for the glory of the Church of Christ. The Glorious Awakening reports news, informs,
educates, it tells about people in many places and above all examines
Christianity in relation to other social sciences. It probes beneath the surface and reveals the
meaning of life and does not exalt one race against the other. Most important of all, the GA builds in the
reader’s mind God’s promise of peaceful coexistence as we wait Jesus’ Second
coming.
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