We were praying and looking forward to the 23rd September 2013 for the arrival of our guests who were scheduled to facilitate New Man New Woman New life seminars in Bondo and Maseno West Dioceses. Our guests arrived safely, especially at a time as that [Note from Carrie: Terrorists have taken a large shopping mall in Nairobi, killed many people, and were holding others captive. The country was in a state of shock and mourning.] Thank God.
Bishop Johannes Angela of Bondo was able to meet our guests at the hotel to welcome them but was unable to attend any session due to health issues. He was glad that the faculty had come and would equip us so that we remain agents of change.
The Master Class for Bondo was held on 24th and 25th as planned. The Master Class is to further equip those who have already taken the New Man, New Woman seminar. The Bondo Cathedral was our venue and 28 participants attended.
Participants were active through the sessions and testified of:
- Transformed lives after the Kokise 2012 seminar, attitude changes both of the participants, some of their spouses and children.
- Reconciled families after sharing of the material with others, enriched love and concern in families, sharing of domestic chores and more openness of spouses.
- Utilizing opportunities such as cell groups, Mothers’ Union, Chief’s baraza (meeting), meetings in schools & colleges.
- Family altars.
Other opportunities to be explored included KAMA [Kenya Anglican Men Association], Fellowships, Bible studies in schools/colleges & churches, youth groups and Sunday school.
Empower International Ministries is committed to availing more booklets for use in the groups cited above. This good gesture was appreciated.
A committee for Bondo Diocese Empower was formed. It was viewed as the agency that would steer fruitful work within Bondo Diocese. Members include:-
1. Isaiah Magati – Akoko Archdeaconry
2. Juliet Okumu – Bondo Archdeaconry
3. Joel Okawo – Chianda – Archdeaconry
4. Jane Ochieng – Ramba – Archdeaconry
5. Noah Ogolla – Usigu – Archdeaconry
6. Paul Adhaya Ololo [Rev.] – Coordinator
7. Domnic Misolo [Rev.] – Coordinator
Twelve out of the twenty eight joined the faculty to teach the participants in Siaya Cathedral, Maseno West diocese. They were: Isaiah Magati, Juliet Okumu, Noah Ogolla, Melody Awuor, Peter Nyambau, Mary Alice Opudo, Maurice Ogweno, Quinter Akinyi, Jared Olango, Janet Odhiambo, Rosemary Omolo & Paul Adhaya Ololo. The Rev John Haung (Diocesian Administrative Secretary) and the Very Rev Edward Onyango (provost) mobilized and coordinated.105 participants attended. Thank God for the victory.
Participants found the teaching helpful and interesting. They shared surprises and realized that culture and biased interpretation of scriptures had led to discrimination, injustice, among other ills in the society. They look forward to the next level (Masters Class).
Bishop Joseph O. Wasonga (of Maseno West Diocese) regardless of his busy schedule joined us briefly on 28th in the morning and got the feel of the three discussion groups. He enquired what they had learnt and how they intended to use the lessons learnt. He challenged them to use the materials within family circles and especially among the youth, many of whom had relational challenges with their parents. He appreciated Empower International Ministries for the useful material and their commitment to empowering all using scriptural truths.
Conclusion
All participants were given certificates and commissioned by Rev. Canon Jovahn at the end of their respective sessions.
We do look forward for more opportunities of partnership, equipping and fellowship.
We appreciate the entire team of Empower International Ministries for their dedication and sacrifice.
We thank God for all the supporters/partners of Empower for answering to God’s call and availing resources used for fulfilling God’s purpose. We also thank and pray them well.