Why Kenya?
- Peter Shaw
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Why Kenya?
Over the past year, we have developed a connection through Bishop Tim, who lived and worked for many years in the Nairobi area. Through this relationship, Emmanuel is supporting Church Army Africa in the building of the new Emmanuel Centre at Carlile College.
Carlile College is an education ministry of Church Army Africa. Its mission is to nurture leaders through Christian, values based training that equips them to serve their communities and see lives transformed. The new building will expand their capacity, enabling more students to be trained and sent out as leaders across the region.
We are able to support this project because of a generous legacy left to Emmanuel specifically for overseas mission. It is a joy to see that gift used in a way that will bless many others for years to come.
A Growing Church Link
Alongside this building project, we have established a link with St Monica’s Church in Thika, about 25 miles north east of Nairobi. St Monica’s is a thriving, contemporary Anglican church, and we are praying that this friendship will grow into a genuine two way relationship where we learn from one another.
While in Kenya, Pam and Holly are:
Visiting Carlile College and seeing the early stages of the new Emmanuel Centre.
Meeting students who are training for Christian leadership.
Attending worship at St Monica’s and experiencing African church life.
Joining a couple of home groups to see how small group discipleship happens in a different cultural setting.
Many of our Emmanuel home groups have already shared pictures and short videos with St Monica’s. They know something about us, and now Pam and Holly are seeing first hand how their groups gather, pray and grow in faith.
A Heart for the Next Generation
As our Children and Youth Lead, Holly is particularly interested in their Youth Development and Child and Family Support programmes. She is observing both the similarities and differences in how churches serve children and families in different cultural contexts.
Her hope is to help build a lasting bridge between our two communities, with a special focus on encouraging and discipling the next generation. We long to see children in Plymouth and children in Kenya praying for one another and discovering together what it means to follow Jesus.
Holly is also spending time learning about the Women’s Empowerment Programme connected to the work there. She believes deeply in the power of creativity and meaningful work to bring healing and dignity to those who are often overlooked, and is eager to see how these initiatives are helping women flourish.
Please Pray
As they continue their time in Kenya, please pray:
For strength, good health and protection.
For Jesus inspired conversations and friendships that are natural and fruitful.
For open hearts as they listen, observe and learn.
For fresh vision and renewed energy for youth and children’s ministry back in Plymouth.
For the children and young people in both communities to grow in faith and curiosity about one another.
We are part of a global family in Christ. As Pam and Holly represent us in Kenya, may this partnership deepen our discipleship, widen our compassion, and remind us that God’s Kingdom stretches far beyond our own city.
