Karibu (Welcome)

Karibu Pastor Merritt! This was one of the first things I heard yesterday (Thursday) as I entered onto the premises at Manna Bible Institute. Manna is a training facility for pastors throughout the country of Kenya. Pastors come from many different regions to receive training and then they are sent back to their city, communities, and tribes in order to preach the Good News of Jesus Christ. Manna has 1-3 year programs of study. The class I am teaching has fifteen students and seven of the fifteen students were here when I came in September of 2008. It was beautiful to see my brothers and sisters in the Lord once again. It was able to catch up and speak with them about their studies and ministries. The first day of teaching was a blessing. However, I must get use to utilizing a translator again. English is classified as the official language of Kenya but many of the student's primary language is Swahili. In this particular class at Manna, the majority of the students utilize a Swahili Bible and therefore I have needed a translator. Despite the delays of translating from English to Swahili, the students have quickly grapsed some of the major themes of 1 Thessalonians: Holy Living, Thanksgiving, Rejoicing, Faith, Hope and Love, Praise God!!!

I also had a meeting at African Nazarene University which is close in proximity to Manna. I went with the Principal and Director of Manna as we met with the Sports Co-ordinator of the university. I visited the school back in September of 2008 when they were first opening up their newly completed multi-purpose gymnasium. It is truly a nice facility. I thought it would be awesome to hold a basketball-outreach event at the gym. Unfortunately, I was unable to keep in touch with my first contact, the Dean of Students, at the university. However, the current Sports Co-ordinator seems excited about reaching out to the community. We will continue to pray and hope the Lord opens up doors to facilitate an event for next year 2011.

Finally, Carolyn and the kids are doing well. Life in Kenya is much different than the States. There are not the luxuries of home but I think it is good for my children to understand how blessed they are. I also believe they are getting a big picture of what the Lord is able to do and is doing throughout the world. God's infinite grace and mercy are still evident.

This first week has passed by really quickly but continue to pray for us. Pray that we are well rested for the remainder of our trip. I am speaking twice on Sunday so pray that the Lord empowers me for His service and that the messages are well received. Finally, pray for Kenya and its people; it is neat to see so many people from different parts of the world coming here for the sake of Christ but His servants need the power of the Spirit to do the work of ministry. Amen!

Peace and Blessings,
Merritt