Star of Hope Kenyas Church is the Word of Life Faith Church
Report – Rising to the Occasion
In the recent past, Kenya has witnessed controversial televangelists practicing extreme cult activities that have led to the deaths of over 200 followers (including children and parents) with over 500 followers still reported missing by their family members. A Cult leader posing as a Pastor at a church here in the Coastal Region of Kenya convinced his followers to sell every property they own and move to Shakahola Forest where the Pastor’s farm is located so that they can “meet” Jesus Christ. The brain-washed followers were asked to fast and pray for 40 days before meeting Jesus Christ. Many followers died and got buried in the process leading this act to be termed a terrorist massacre by the Kenyan government.
Figure 1: Shakahola Forest Crime Scene (Photo Credits: NBC News)
This is not an isolated incident in Kenya. Christian Religion is being used as an avenue to manipulate and extort the most vulnerable and destitute people in our communities. It is important for the Church to rise to the occasion and spread the true gospel of Jesus Christ to both Parents and children so that they do not get misled.
Word of Life Faith Church in Mikindani has been at the forefront to spread the gospel and teachings of Jesus Christ to different groups of individuals in our community. We have organized events and seminars to spread God’s love to the most destitute and vulnerable members of our community.
Prison Ministry: Board Meeting on Improving Quality of the Correctional Services at Shimo La Tewa Borstal Institute
The board members of Shimo La Tewa Borstal Institute recently held a meeting with the Permanent Secretary for Correctional Facilities to discuss the improvement of extracurricular activities, focusing on the music band, performing arts, and football, with the aim of enhancing the quality of time spent by the children in conflict with the law within the facility.
During the meeting, we engaged in a comprehensive discussion on the significance of extracurricular activities in the rehabilitation and development of children. Recognizing the positive impact of music, performing arts, and sports, the board members put forth various suggestions to improve these areas within the facility. It was proposed to recruit qualified instructors and mentors specialized in music, performing arts, and football to provide structured training programs and mentorship to the children. Additionally, the board discussed the procurement of necessary equipment and resources to support the activities, ensuring that the children have access to suitable instruments, materials, and sports facilities.
The meeting highlighted the potential benefits of engaging the children in these extracurricular activities, such as promoting self-expression, teamwork, discipline, and talent development. The board members also emphasized the importance of providing a supportive and nurturing environment for the children to explore their interests and skills. Through these activities, it is envisioned that the children will not only enhance their physical and artistic abilities but also develop essential life skills that can contribute to their successful reintegration into society.
In conclusion, the meeting with the Permanent Secretary for Correctional Facilities yielded constructive discussions on improving the extracurricular activities, including the music band, performing arts, and football, at Shimo La Tewa Borstal Institute. The board members are committed to implementing the discussed recommendations, ensuring that the children in conflict with the law receive opportunities for holistic development during their time at the facility. Rev. Gilbert Ochieng represented Word of Life Faith Church Mikindani and Tent Mission in the discussion.
Prison Ministry: Completion of the New Sewerage System
The Shimo la Tewa Borstal Center is a correctional facility for underage boys in conflict with the law. The institution has for a long time faced a health hazard, a broken sewerage system.
The facility’s sewerage system made the whole compound stink besides exposing the boys to infectious diseases such as cholera and typhoid.
In 2021, through support from Tent Mission and Word of Life Faith Church, we began building a new, more efficient system.
The project was delayed due to insufficient funds. This year, Word of Life Faith Church together with Star of Hope Kenya contributed Kshs. 240,000 to complete the project. A team of workers from Mikindani was recently assigned to complete the project. We are happy to announce that the project is complete and the facility now has a well-functioning sewerage system. We thank every well-wisher that made this possible. God bless you.
Children’s Seminar at Word of Life Faith Church
Word of Life Faith Church in Mikindani organized the Children’s Seminar from the 26th to the 30th of April with the theme being “Fanning the Flames of Holiness and Purity “. The event was attended by 261 children aged 4 to 19 years old from the informal settlements in Mikindani.
The five-day seminar was facilitated by four professionals ranging from teachers to counselors. The children were divided into groups based on age.
They were taught about different topics ranging from Family, Helping in the church to the Beauty of Adolescence. The children enjoyed their time. They engaged in debates, played fun games, and ate lunch together as a family.
Rescue and Hope: Angel Tabitha – Orphan Girl Liberated from Violent Relative
On the first day of the Children’s seminar, Angel Tabitha, an Orphan girl came to the event venue sad and looking frail. She stood outside the church gate in confusion and that’s when one of our teachers invited her to join us. She began to cry uncontrollably. When she settled, Angel opened up and told the teacher that she an orphan and she comes from a nearby slum area where she lives with her aunt. Angel had run away from her aunt and had been missing for two days. She was fed up with her aunt physically and emotionally assaulting her every day. She thought she might find refuge at the Children Seminar which she overheard other children talk about when she was roaming the streets of Mikindani.
We welcomed Angel Tabitha with open arms and took her straight to the Children Services Government Office where we reported her case. Angel Tabitha was provided with food and counseling services by the officials. She is now in good care as she was placed under Children Services Rescue home where she is finding safety and hope.
Against all odds, the innocent orphan girl child was bravely rescued from the clutches of her violent relative, finding solace and safety in the arms of compassionate guardians. Glory be to God.
Youth Seminar
Word of Life Faith Church in Mikindani organized a youth Seminar on 18th March 2023.
We set up an open platform for the youths to ask questions about matters affecting their lives. The event was attended by 46 youths from Mikindani.
The discussion was facilitated by Pastor Gilbert Ochieng together with the help of other pastors and teachers in the Church. The youths got their answers on topics ranging from dealing with depression and tough times, addiction, and relationships to financial growth. This productive event positively impacted the lives of the attendants.
Leadership Training
A leadership training was held at Word of Life Faith Church and facilitated by Pastor Gilbert Ochieng. The four-day training was themed Ministerial Training.
Word of Life Faith church organized a Leadership Training event, which proved to be an enriching and transformative experience for all 300 participants. Ministerial Training is all about being an active leader in the Ministry work of the Church. The training aimed to equip members of the church and community with the necessary skills and knowledge to become effective leaders within the church community and beyond.
The four-day event featured a diverse range of workshops and sessions, covering various aspects of leadership such as communication, decision-making, conflict resolution, and servant leadership. Pastor Gilbert Ochieng facilitated these sessions, sharing insights and practical wisdom. The interactive nature of the training allowed attendees to actively engage in discussions, ask questions, and participate in group activities, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Overall, the Leadership Training event in the church empowered participants with invaluable tools to make a positive impact in their roles as leaders. The knowledge gained from the training will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and effectiveness of the church community, enabling individuals to lead with confidence, compassion, and a deep sense of purpose.
Single Ladies Conference
The Single Ladies Seminar was held at Word of Life Faith Church Mikindani, under the guidance of Pastor Grace Ngenya and Pastor Ole Sena. The purpose of the seminar was to provide guidance, encouragement, and practical insights to single women within the church community and beyond.
During the seminar, Pastor Grace and Ole Sena addressed a variety of topics relevant to single ladies, including personal growth, spiritual development, relationships, and purposeful living. He emphasized the importance of embracing one’s season of singleness and encouraged attendees to focus on self-discovery, pursuing their passions, and developing a strong foundation in their faith.
The seminar also featured interactive sessions and group discussions, allowing participants to share their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. Attendees were provided with practical tools and advice on building healthy relationships, setting personal boundaries, and navigating the complexities of modern dating. The seminar aimed to empower single women with the knowledge and tools to thrive in their singleness, while fostering a supportive community within the church.
In conclusion, the Single Ladies Seminar led by Pastor Grace and Ole Sena at Word of Life Faith Church Mikindani provided a valuable platform for single women to gather, learn, and grow. The seminar addressed relevant topics, equipped participants with practical insights, and fostered a sense of community and support. It is expected that the seminar will have a positive and lasting impact on the lives of the attendees as they continue their journey as single women, guided by the principles and teachings shared during the event.
Women’s Conference – The Purpose of a Woman.
The Word of Life Faith Church-Mikindani recently hosted a transformative three-day Christian women’s conference, led by the inspiring Pastor Gilbert. The conference, centered on the theme of “Purpose of a Woman,” attracted a diverse group of women from all walks of life seeking spiritual growth and empowerment.
The event provided a nurturing and uplifting environment for attendees to connect with one another, deepen their faith, and discover their unique purpose in God’s plan.
Throughout the conference, Pastor Gilbert skillfully delivered powerful sermons and teachings that resonated with the hearts of the women in attendance. He emphasized the biblical perspective of a woman’s purpose and encouraged participants to embrace their God-given gifts and talents. The sessions were thought-provoking, fostering self-reflection and inspiring discussions among the attendees. Additionally, the conference offered various workshops, interactive sessions, and group activities that allowed women to share their experiences, exchange wisdom, and build lasting connections within the Christian community.
The Christian women’s conference at Word of Life Faith Church-Mikindani served as a catalyst for personal growth and spiritual rejuvenation. It was a testament to the church’s commitment to empowering women and equipping them to make a positive impact in their families, communities, and the world at large.
The event left a lasting impression on the attendees, igniting a sense of purpose and renewed determination to live out their faith authentically. Overall, the conference was a resounding success, leaving women empowered, encouraged, and ready to embrace their unique role in fulfilling God’s purpose for their lives.
With the deepest gratitude,
Rev. Gilbert Ochieng, Senior Pastor, Word of Life Faith Church Mikindani & Director Star of Hope Kenya