A journey of faith, friendship and future hope

From the dusty roads of Nairobi to the vibrant worship of Thika, our journey to Kenya from 16th–24th May 2025 was far more than a trip, it was a spiritual pilgrimage, a mission of connection, and a glimpse of God’s hand at work in extraordinary ways. Travelling with Bishop Tim Dakin and youth worker Aaron Stanbury, I was privileged to experience firsthand the potential of a truly mutual and transformative partnership between Emmanuel Church, Plymouth and our brothers and sisters at ACK St Monica’s, Thika.

ACK St Monica’s Church: A Church alive with spirit and service

From the moment we stepped into the English-language service at St Monica’s on Sunday 18th May, it was clear this was a church filled with life. Children poured in by the hundreds, vibrant worship lifted the roof, and a framed print of Smeaton’s Lighthouse, gifted by us, symbolised Emmanuel’s prayer to shine Christ’s light, just as they do in their growing community.

Yet it wasn’t only the energy that struck us, it was their deep desire for community and care. St Monica’s operates seven "cell groups" to nurture faith and relationships, including one Sunday a month after service for those who can’t attend during the week. We met with leaders across their ministries: children, youth, men’s, women’s, and PCC, and were warmly received as potential partners in ministry. Rev. Joseph and Rev. Alice’s vision and leadership impressed us deeply, especially their intentional outreach to youth and families in an increasingly pressured economic climate.

A standout moment came during the service, when Archdeacon Joseph addressed the congregation with vulnerability, encouraging them to talk openly about struggles. The recent funeral of a young graduate who had died by suicide cast a sombre reminder of the mental health crisis affecting youth globally. It hit home that though our cultures differ, the heartache and hopes we carry are often the same.

The Rural Church: Resilience and Resourcefulness

On Friday 23rd May, we visited ACK St Peter’s Kianjugu — a rural parish led by Rev. Danson, whose passion and perseverance were evident. Evangelising the area before his ordination, Danson continues to shepherd three churches across challenging terrain. The community had been part of Tearfund’s Church and Community Mobilisation Process (CCMP), and though support was pulled unexpectedly, they’re now rekindling the initiative independently with diocesan backing. It was inspiring to witness how one woman, Jane, had donated land and spring water to her church and neighbours — a vivid example of faith in action.

Despite poverty, the hospitality and gifts (including pineapples and bananas!) from Danson, Joseph and Jane moved us deeply. This wasn’t charity — it was kinship.

Church Army Africa & The Tafakari Vision: Transforming Mission in Nairobi

Monday 19th May brought us to Church Army Africa (CAA) in Nairobi, where Bishop Tim once served. The compound is home to Carlile College, three schools, a clinic, and the heartbeat of the HEAL model — Health, Education, Advocacy and Leverage of Wealth.

Their bold proposal: a new training and conference centre that could revive and grow their outreach, including digital classrooms and space for theological and community training. The plan is visionary — and realistic. The Mission Committee’s recommendation to allocate a legacy donation here could help seed a future where evangelism is holistic and hope-filled.

We saw the work of their clinic, schools, and were particularly encouraged by the calibre and unity of the leadership team. The future potential to expand the college and its outreach into nearby informal settlements aligns powerfully with our values of practical mission.

Kibera and Tafakari: Where Faith Meets the Margins

Perhaps the most humbling day of all was Tuesday 20th May in Kibera, one of Nairobi’s largest informal settlements. At the Tafakari Centre, led by the remarkable Rev. Capt. Simon Peter (who lived in the slum himself for two years as part of his training!), we witnessed mission that is deeply incarnational.

Their outreach is bold, yet beautiful in simplicity:

• Dignity kits for girls and boys

• Homework clubs offering light, space, and porridge

• A ‘Kazi Buddy’ app linking youth to casual labour

• Women’s empowerment through art and micro-business

• Training unqualified pastors through the Shepherds’ Institute

What struck us wasn’t only the range of services, but the spirit behind them — deeply Christian, joyfully sacrificial, and profoundly hope-giving.

As Fiona and Beth guided me through the alleys and open sewage trenches of Kibera, I saw firsthand how Tafakari is a literal and spiritual beacon. Their dreams of a music studio, science lab, and Airbnb studio to host visiting students are not far-fetched — they are faith-fuelled.

Where Do We Go From Here?

The potential of a partnership between Emmanuel and St Monica’s is enormous — but it must be relational, reciprocal, and rooted in prayer. Some ideas we’re exploring include:

• Linking home groups with cell groups

• Sharing children’s and youth ministry ideas

• Engaging with climate action as shared mission

• Building role-to-role connections (e.g. Men’s Ministry, Mothers’ Union)

• Shared online services, WhatsApp videos, and mutual social media following

• Creating a St Monica’s page on our website with regular updates and prayer points

• Nurturing a three-way link with a church in the Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf

Final Reflections

This trip reminded us that mission is not “us to them” — it is God with all of us. Thika and Plymouth may be worlds apart geographically, but the Spirit of God is weaving something beautiful: mutual encouragement, shared struggle, and united purpose.

As we consider our next steps — including potential involvement in CAA’s training centre, youth exchanges, or shared discipleship resources — let us move forward prayerfully, open-hearted, and expectant.

Because when churches across continents dare to walk together in love and truth, the Kingdom of God is made visible — in Kibera, in Thika, in Plymouth, and beyond.