NEWS & VIEWS AUGUST, 2021 - IN THIS ISSUE: All Saints' Cathedral
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All Saints’ Cathedral, Nairobi NEWS & VIEWS AUGUST, 2021 IN THIS ISSUE: Mental Health and the Church | A walk through Joshua | The Power of Good News NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 1
ANGLICAN CHURCH OF KENYA ALL SAINTS’ CATHEDRAL P. O. Box 40539 – 00100 Nairobi, Kenya Reception: 0702 645069 | Booking line: 0728 271715 Prayer line: 0110 095533 Pastoral Care & Counselling: 0705 318 392 E-mail: info@allsaintsnairobi.org Visit our website: http://www.allsaintsnairobi.org CATHEDRAL MINISTRY STAFF Provost/Vicar Education & Discipleship The Very Rev. Canon Sammy Wainaina Rev. Lillian Karinga – Pillar Minister Mrs. Dorsila Kassums – Executive Assistant Rev. Alice Kariuki – Women Ministry Minister Leah Gatuma – Children Minister Assistant Provost/Worship Pillar Mrs. Mercy Eunyalata – Children’s Coordinator Rev. Evans Omollo – Asst. Provost/Pillar Minister Jandson Njoroge – Senior Verger Pastoral Care and Sacraments Antony Muriuki – Music Director Rev. Josephine Ngahu – Pillar Minister Moses Odumbe – Asst. Director of Music Rev. Joseph Kamau – Sacraments Minister Faith Malemba – Adminstrative Assistant Rev. Philip Owuor – Hospital Visitations Minister Cathedral Administrator Evangelism & Outreach Pillar Mr. George Maina Rev. James Kimari – Pillar Minister Finance Manager Youth & Young Adults Mabel Bwibo (Acting Capacity) Rev. Alfred Apela – Young Adults Minister Human Resource Manager Rev. Ignatius Malimo – Youth Minister Yvonne Abade Esther Wagaturi – Youth Coordinator Teens & Confirmation CTC Rev. Dennis Nthenge - Teens Minister Rev. Paul Machira – Resource Mobilizer Caroline Kathombe - Teens Coordinator Fridah Too– CTC Coordinator CONTENTS 01 PROVOST’S DESK: 12 THE POWER OF THE GOOD NEWS MENTAL HEALTH AND THE CHURCH By Rev Canon Micah Amukobole By The Very Rev. Canon Sammy Wainaina 21 MY EXPERIENCE IN ELEPHANT HILL 04 NEWS & NOTICES By Kimani Kamau 07 WHEN INFEDILITY ROCKS YOUR MARRIAGE 23 EDUCATION SCHOLASHIP: MY TESTIMONY By Dr. Sellina & Rev. Evans Omollo By Millicent Lilian Momesu 09 A WALK THROUGH JOSHUA – PART 1 TRINITY SPORTS 25 By Jared Ogutu By Bigvai Mwailemi 2 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
PROVOST’S DESK Mental Health and The Church By The Very Rev. Canon Sammy Wainaina M ental health is a sensitive topic in church circles. There are so many views, some helpful and others very unhelpful. Whenever her or his community. There is no health without mental health! we mention mental health, many people think of a ‘mad’ man or woman in the market who Kindly read the desk from the lenses of a is dressed scantly and looking dirty. However, psychiatrist. mental health is part of our lives. It is said that 25% of us will suffer with mental health The place of mental health in the life of a problems in our life time. That’s 1 in 4 and it Christian is the subject of much debate and doesn’t change just because we are people of controversy in some circles. In this article, we faith. In modern, elite and affluent living, there will address some of the things that might help are layers that people use to us begin the conversation on this cover mental illness. Behind executive lives, therein lies There is very topical subject in Kenya in the face of frequent and distressing the challenge of mental health. What we witness in no health reports of family problems that have in some cases ended family deaths and conflicts is just a manifestation of the without tragically in the death of loved ones. Knowledge is key to solving problem. mental many of the problems now facing WHO (2014) defines health as “A state of complete well- health! all of us. No family however high or low, rich or poor is spared from mental illness. being: Physically, Mentally, Socially and not merely the Spirituality is critical in the promotion of mental absence of disease or infirmity.” Mental health health. It is also critical in the healing process. according to (WHO, 2014) is a state of well- For this reason, mental health experts and being in which every individual realizes his or spiritual leaders must always work together. her own potential, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and Mental illness, also called mental health fruitfully and is able to make a contribution to disorders, refers to a wide range of mental health NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 1
conditions, that affect your mood, thinking and other factors. Some people develop problems in behavior. Examples of mental illness include their marriage, while some students fail exams, depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, while depressed mothers sometimes neglect Post Traumatic Stress Disorders and addictive their children. Other people drink too much behaviors. Many people have concerns about alcohol while still others abuse drugs such as their mental health from time to time. A mental cannabis. Each one of the nearly 300 different health concern becomes a mental illness when types of mental disorders can be diagnosed by ongoing signs and symptoms cause frequent the experts from it’s set of defining symptoms. stress and affect your ability to function, at home or at work. A mental illness can make you miserable and Examples of signs and symptoms include: can cause problems in your daily life, at school or • Feeling sad or down work. It can also affect important relationships. • Confused thinking or reduced ability to Some people with severe depression feel that concentrate God has abandoned them and are unable to • Excessive fears or worries, or extreme pray. In this state, some Christians lose hope and feelings of guilt may feel suicidal. • Extreme mood changes of highs and lows • Withdrawal from friends and activities Signs and symptoms of mental illness can vary, • Significant tiredness, low energy or depending on the disorder, circumstances and 2 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
problems sleeping someone else in your faith community. Suicidal • Detachment from reality (delusions), thinking doesn’t get better on its own — so get paranoia or hallucinations help. Suicidal thoughts is not about weakness • Inability to cope with daily problems or and are almost always a sign of a serious mental stress illness. • Trouble understanding and relating to If your loved one shows signs of mental illness, situations and to people have an open and honest discussion with him • Problems with alcohol or drug use or her about your concerns. Often, the family • Major changes in eating habits member will feel relieved that someone close • Sex drive changes to them has noticed their distress. You may not • Excessive anger, hostility or violence be able to force someone to get professional • Suicidal thinking care, but you can offer encouragement and support. You can also help your loved one find Sometimes symptoms of a mental health a qualified mental health professional and make an appointment. disorder such as depression, appear as physical problems, such as stomach pain, back pain, If your loved one has done self-harm or is headaches, leading to frequent and expensive/ considering doing so, take the person to the unnecessary visits to medical facilities. hospital or call for emergency help. If your loved one is abusing drugs or alcohol, do not neglect If you have any signs or symptoms of a mental or hide them away, but rather with prayer and illness, see your health provider. Your pastor, love and gentle persuasion, get them help. friend, or family member might also be able to help you get the help that you need. Prayer All government facilities in Kenya are a good and seeking mental health support go together. starting point. Some useful numbers one might BOTH are important in the healing process. call for help. One does not preclude the other. • Kenya Red Cross: +254 703 037000 / Suicidal thoughts and behavior are common 722 206958. Toll Free Hotline: 1199. with some mental illnesses. If you think you may • NACADA: +254 (020) 2721997/93 hurt yourself or attempt suicide, get help right (020) 2737683 away. Many people visit pastors before killing • Chiromo Hospital Group: +254 769 themselves. Others inform loved ones before 398128 / 733 778609. Toll Free No: 0800 taking their lives. NEVER ignore statement 220 000 about suicide, and make sure your loved one Some reflections during troubled times gets to a mental health specialist without delay. in Kenya: In the alternative or in addition, contact a Dr. Frank Njenga member of the clergy, spiritual leader or Presidential Advisor on Mental Health NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 3
NEWS & NOTICES A. MAKING PAYMENTS AT THE CATHEDRAL: 1. CTC Pledges use Paybill 303035: Account – CTC Pledge and Phone Number. Steps for making payments using 303035: • Go to Safaricom menu & select Mpesa / Airtel & select Airtel Money • Select Lipa na Mpesa & Select Paybill • Enter Business Number 303035 • Enter Account: CTC Phone number, CTC T-Shirt, CTC Fundraiser • Enter Amount, your PIN and send 2. For All other payments including tithe, offering, baptism, wedding etc. use paybill 303036: Account – Tithe, offering, baptism, wedding etc. Steps for making payments using 303036: 1. Go to Safaricom menu & select Mpesa / Airtel & select Airtel Money 2. Select Lipa na Mpesa & Select Paybill 3. Enter Business Number 303036 4. Enter Account: Wedding, Tithe, Baptism 5. Enter Amount, your PIN and send B. WORSHIP SERVICES AT THE CATHEDRAL: i. 7.00am: Congregational Holy Communion Service in the Main Sanctuary ii. 8.00am: Congregational Service at the Auditorium iii. 9.00 am: Congregational Kiswahili Service at St. Philip’s Chapel iv. 9.30am: Congregational Youth Service at the Auditorium v. 9.30am: Congregational Sunday School Service at the Kindergarten vi. 11.00am: Congregational Teens’ Service in the MPH vii. 11.00am: Congregational Deaf Service at St. Philip’s Chapel viii. 11.00am: Congregational and Live Stream (KBC, YouTube, Facebook) Service at the Main Sanctuary ix. 6.00pm: Congregational and Live Stream ( YouTube, Facebook) at the Main Sanctuary C. ORGAN RESTORATION PROJECT: We thank you most sincerely for your continued support towards the Organ Restoration Project. We continue to invite you to send your contributions according to how God will enable you. We are trusting God to raise Kshs 50 million in order to complete this project. For contributions, please use paybill no: 303036, Account: Organ Restoration. 4 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
D. ORGAN RESTORATION: We remind you of the Cathedral Organ Restoration project and request for your financial support. We have lined many activities towards the project and we invite you to a Jazz Concert dubbed ‘A PIPE DREAM’ at the auditorium on 12th September at 3pm. A ticket goes for Ksh.1,200 and proceeds shall go towards the organ restoration. Bring along the entire family for an afternoon of lovely jazz music. E. CTC PLEDGES: We thank you most sincerely for your continued support towards the CTC Project. We continue to invite you to pledge for the year 2021 via the link https://www.jotform.com/edit/491600284970498889. We are trusting God to raise Kshs 100 million this year through the various initiatives. F. CTC MERCHANDISE: The Children and Teens Centre Project has produced merchandise that is on sale every Sunday and every day at the office. The merchandise includes Bucket hats @ Kshs 1,000, hiking buff @ Kshs. 800 and T-shirts @ Kshs. 2,000. Thank you and for booking kindly contact Fridah Too+254722560123. G. COUNSELING SERVICES are available at the Cathedral for anyone who needs their services. Please send a request through Tel No.0110 095 533. H. MOM COUPLES ANNUAL CONFERENCE: Couples are invited to the Annual Marriage Conference, which will take place from 20th to 23rd October 2021 at Pride Inn Flamingo Beach Resort, Mombasa. The cost is Kshs.42,000/= per couple exclusive of transport. Please register via Cathedral website. I. CONFIRMATION SERVICE will be held on 10th September to 12th November 2021 at 5:30pm. All those intending to have their weddings in December and January are encouraged to register through the Cathedral website. J. DIOCESAN FUNDRAISER will take place on 5th September 2021 during the 11:00am service. We encourage members to come and support the mission of the Diocese on that day. NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 5
K. The Cathedral is in need of forming a think tank for the CTC software programs: People who are passionate about children and have experience working with children. Professionals such as; Doctors, Musicians, Child Psychologists, Teachers, IT experts, Expert in Communications, Trainers and program developers. Kindly get in touch with Leah on +254 720 544 762. L. ALL SAINTS CATHEDRAL SACCO invites you for an education day on Saturday 11th September 2021 at 9.00am. The theme will be: Financial Management during a pandemic. For more information contact Sacco Office on 0720 025362. M. CHURCHING & BABY DEDICATION will be on 4th September at 12pm. Parents are requested to register on the website. N. MEMBERSHIP CLASSES will start on 18th September at 10am. We kindly request the members both old and new to register for the classes through the website. O. THE CHILDREN AND TEENS CENTRE COMMITTEE: is organizing for a Charity Golf tournament on the 5th November 2021 at the Karen Country Club. We invite you to sponsor the tournament through your companies or individually. The golf benefit card showing the different categories of sponsorship is available at the office every day and can be downloaded from the Cathedral Website. For more details on how to sponsor kindly contact Fridah Too on +254 722 560123 and you will be assisted. P. THE AFRICA CHILDREN’S PRAYER DAY: will be held on Saturday 2nd October. To prepare for the same we have 40 days of prayer that commenced on Monday 23rdAugust. They will be posted daily in the website. Families are encouraged to pray together. Q. SUBMISSION OF ARTICLES – Deadline for submission of articles for September 2021, is 15th September 2021. The main theme will be CHURCH WITHOUT BORDERS: GROWING INSPITE OF CRISIS Please submit clear photographs with an article of 600 words or less to fmalemba@allsaintsnairobi. org OR info@allsaintsnairobi.org. If material is not original, please quote the source. Priority is given to reports of church events. Editors reserve the right to edit or withhold submitted items. Opinions expressed in News & Views are not necessarily those of the Editors or the Cathedral. 6 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
COUPLES’ CORNER When Infedility Rocks Your Marriage By Dr. Sellina & Rev. Evans Omollo I t is very rare that a couple signs up for marriage with the knowledge that their spouse will either cheat on them or introduce defenses, some laced with lies. Yet there are few ones who will justify why they opted other characters in their marriage. And so when to cheat on their spouses. As believers, infidelity creeps in to a marriage, it opens a flood we admonish those who find themselves gate of various negative emotions ranging from; in the mix of infidelity to accept their feelings of anger, betrayal, regrets, depression wrong doing, confess their guilt and and sometimes self-blame in cases where red ask for forgiveness from their spouses. 1 flags were ignored during courtship. John 1: 9 reminds us that ‘if we confess our sins, he (God) is faithful and just Cheating in marriage occurs when previous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us opposite sex relations were never closed or from all unrighteousness’. Owning up to where such were revived in the course of your mistakes puts an end to blame games marriage due to tension, fights or other reasons. and the potential of things escalating out Other times infidelity happens when a married of hand and on the contrary, presents an partner gets too close emotionally or relationally opportunity for addressing the problem with a friend, a colleague or a business partner and its root causes. of opposite sex thus ignoring to define 2. Forgive the offending partner: This boundaries. Further, when there is suspicion of might sound off for many readers because unfaithfulness in marriage, some partners opt to of the demands of holiness in marriage revenge with a mission to demonstrate that they as well as in Christian living. Because we too can ‘do it’. The big question is, how should know that human beings are prone to we behave when marital unfaithfulness creeps mistakes and sinning, it is necessary to into your marriage? view each other in light of the mercies of God that offer forgiveness for sinners HOW TO RESPOND (Deut 4:31). It is therefore paramount 1. Own up to your actions: many times that couples learn to forgive each other. parties involved in cheating will react However, where a partner exhibits a habit by either being harsh to their spouse or of multiple or unending extra marital building walls and completely refusing any relations without remorse or a desire to conversation around that matter. Others change, the offended spouse can pursue will deny and manufacture all sorts of other avenues. NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 7
3. Jointly outline a plan of how to old age line where you promised, “I… mitigate such mistakes: In a scenario take you…. to be my wife/husband, to where your partner owns up to their have and to hold from this day forward; mistakes and you decide to forgive, you for better for worse…” both must not assume that things will 5. Upscale your accountability levels solve themselves out naturally. Job 31:1 with each other: This means learning says, ‘I made a covenant with my eyes not not to hide from each other the sexual to look lustfully at a young woman’. This temptations you are dealing with and implies that we need to take certain actions being open enough to share such with to protect us from falling into sexual sin. In your spouse when you feel vulnerable. our contemporary context, some practical When your spouse invites you to hold actions would include; a) defining your them accountable, this should not be boundaries and avoiding meeting people overstretched to policing them, controlling of opposite sex in a compromising space them or subduing them. Rather, it should like in their house or a hotel room; b) open an opportunity where as a couple, avoid dirty phone conversations, chats or you can rediscover the values of honesty sharing photos that evoke sexual feelings; and openness between yourselves. c) pursue character transformation that is premised on giving up ungodly values CONCLUSION like wild partying, hanging out with It is not easy to navigate through the wrong company (Cf. 1 Cor 15:33); d) murky waters of accusations or realities of cultivating a level of mental discipline unfaithfulness in marriage because of the pain especially among the male folk who tend of betray that breeds mistrust. Couples must to be drawn to sexual temptation visually. handle infidelity with care and decide whether Inability to discipline ourselves sexually they want to solve this problem which is usually from a mental perspective can never be an a manifestation of deep seated habits of lust. The excuse for marital unfaithfulness. guilty partner must show remorse and commit 4. Commit to support each other: to a process of change. Should you find it Handling a case of infidelity in marriage difficult to resolve marital unfaithfully between is a crisis that has the potential of resorting the two of you, you can consider seeking help to blame game, threats of walking away, from a professional counselor. Do not walk out temptations to withdraw completely, without making an attempt to solve because desire to expose the happenings to family we each are frail and are like pots in the potter’s and friends. It can as well mark the end hand, being moulded by God (Cf. Jer, 18:1-8). of a marriage. Care should be given in We call on spouses to endeavor to prioritize supporting each other with the aim of each, love each other unconditionally and addressing the problem and sin of adultery. commit to making their marriages places where A re-reading of your marriage vow would Christian values are liberally practiced. be helpful at this stage to re-live that that 8 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
A walk through Joshua – Part 1 Joshua 1:1 – 5:12 By Jared Ogutu T his is a five part series. In Part 1, we will see God preparing Joshua for leadership and giving him victory in the battles to conquer The LORD took time to reassure and Promised Land. encourage Joshua, showing him the secret to success – be careful to obey all the law After Moses died, God appointed Joshua to my servant Moses gave you; do not turn be leader of the Israelites. This was a moment from it to the right or to the left; do not of transition for Joshua into a position of great let this Book of the Law depart from your responsibility, as he was to lead more than two mouth; meditate on it day and night; the million people into a foreign land to conquer LORD your God will be with you wherever and claim it as their own. Remember that the you go ( Joshua 1:6 – 9). LORD had described the Israelites as stubborn and disobedient. So Joshua could have been This was also a moment of transition for the fearful as he thought about this enormous Israelites. While Joshua was transitioning task. However, the LORD promised to be into a new leadership position, the Israelites with him, encouraging Joshua to be strong were transitioning into having a new leader. and courageous, and not to be afraid. God However, their ultimate leader was the told Joshua four times in Chapter 1 to be LORD, and He reminded them of this in courageous, perhaps indicating how afraid he assuring Joshua of His presence with him could have been. always. But the LORD had been preparing Joshua for From verse 10, we see the effects and results 60 years for just this moment of leadership. of God’s encouragement. Joshua began giving Joshua was born in Egypt, where he spent 20 instructions in preparation for going to battle, years and witnessed how the LORD took them and the people committed to obeying Joshua. from there, across the Red Sea, followed by 40 Joshua says with confidence - Three days from years in the wilderness. The 20 years in now you will cross the Jordan here to go in and Egypt were years of slavery and suffering, take possession of the land the LORD your while the next 40 years were spent learning God is giving you for your own. under Moses. We will see that Joshua spent 50 in the Promised Land. Are you in a period of transition? It could be retirement, assuming a new NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 9
position, starting a new life with different It does not matter how much we have sinned – surroundings, all of which bring fear, the LORD will accept a repentant heart and use uncertainty, and anxiety. How does it to achieve much for His glory. The lesson here God’s reassurance of Joshua encourage is that A repentant and submissive heart you? Remember that God knows and is finds peace and does useful work in the in control of both yesterday, today, and LORD’s Kingdom. tomorrow. Meditate on Joshua 1:6 – 9, and, and fix your eyes on the promises of Armed with this good news about scared the God, as you sing – Standing on the Jericho, Joshua prepared the people to cross the Promises of God. Remember that complete Jordan. He led them to consecrate themselves, faith in God removes fears and anxiety. and ordered the priests to carry the Ark of the Covenant ahead of the people. We see that After preparing Joshua, he in turn begins the Joshua prepared well for the task God had given preparation for conquering the land by sending him; he devoted much time and energy, not spies into Jericho. In his mind he has already serving himself but the LORD. How do you crossed the Jordan!! In sending the spies, Joshua prepare for God’s work? Do you take it casually? is putting into practice what he had learned We must invest much time and resources from Moses. The spies somehow entered the preparing to do God’s work. The close walk house of Rahab, a prostitute. Why did God with God gave Joshua opportunity to hear the use a prostitute? We can only speculate – that LORD in the tasks ahead of him, and to be the LORD knew that Rahab’s heart was open confident of victory. to Him, and He used her to help the Israelites win the victory over Jericho. We also see that the The confidence is demonstrated by Joshua’s LORD had gone ahead of the Israelites to instill declaration in Joshua 3:5 – Consecrate fear in Jericho – testimony of God’s faithfulness. yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do Remember the LORD had promised Joshua to amazing things among you. always be with him. We also see Rahab making a case for her life and that of her family, and the The victory is confirmed in Joshua 3:13; 3:15 spies reach an agreement with her. – 16. When has the LORD gone ahead of you to Joshua 3:13 - And as soon as the priests who clear your path? Where has He granted you carry the ark of the LORD—the Lord of all undeserved favour, just as He granted Rahab? the earth—set foot in the Jordan, its waters When have you experienced God’s grace? flowing downstream will be cut off and stand What sins are in the way of serving the LORD? up in a heap.” When have you stood in the gap for members of your family, your church, your place of work, or Joshua 3:15 – 16 - Now the Jordan is at flood even the nation? stage all during harvest. Yet as soon as the priests who carried the ark reached the Jordan 10 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
and their feet touched the water’s edge, 16 the along the coast heard how the LORD had dried water from upstream stopped flowing. It piled up the Jordan before the Israelites until they had up in a heap a great distance away… crossed over, their hearts melted in fear and they no longer had the courage to face the Israelites. We see the miraculous crossing of the This was the beginning of victory over the Jordan River, which was flowing at its peak. Promised Land, and is further testimony that Israel crossed the river on dry land, most the LORD was indeed with the Israelites. probably marveling at the miracle, and Joshua commanded twelve men to collect a stone each However, there was one more business to take from the river bed as a reminder to them and care of – circumcision of Israelites. The act of future generations of the LORD’s sovereignty. circumcision symbolized the need for cleansing The crossing of the Jordan was significant. This if the Holy God was to enter into a covenant new generation must have heard stories of how relationship with an unholy people. Remember God parted the Red Sea for the Israelites to that all those who came out of Egypt, and who cross on dry land. Now they were witnessing it had been circumcised, died in the wilderness, firsthand!! God subdued the Jordan obstacle to but all the people born in the wilderness during carry His people to His promise. The crossing the journey from Egypt had not. The LORD of the Jordan also demonstrated the LORD’s approved of this when He said to Joshua – unlimited power to give the Israelites victory in Today I have rolled away the reproach of their battles. Egypt from you. In Joshua 3:7, the LORD promised to begin What does God not approve of in your life? exalting Joshua in the eyes of all Israel. This What sins will you confess for a wholesome promise was fulfilled in Joshua 4:14, when, walk with God? God’s Holiness calls for at God’s prompting, Joshua commanded the repentance for a wholesome walk with Him. priests carrying the Ark of the Testimony to come out of the Jordan, and as soon as they And so the Israelites camped at Gilgal and came out, the waters of the river returned to celebrated the Passover. The manna stopped their place. and the people ate of the produce of Canaan. The people had been so used to manna that they What seemingly impossible obstacle is before needed to start getting used to working the land you? What miraculous testimonies have you and enjoying its produce. heard or experienced? The unchanging God still performs miracles today. The LORD wants you The Israelites had now been fully prepared for to experience and enjoy miraculous testimonies the battles ahead of them. In Part 2, we will as you faithfully walk with Him daily. see God giving Joshua victory in the battles to conquer the Promised Land (Joshua 5:13 – From Joshua 5:1 – 13, we see fear instilled in 13:7). the enemy camps. When all the Amorite kings God bless you. west of the Jordan and all the Canaanite kings NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 11
The Power of the Good News By Rev Canon Micah Amukobole T he sacrifice of Stephen, the Apostles, Jerome, Wycliffe, Tyndale, Hus, Luther and those who took the baton to spread the Gospel gave their lives as well as the missionaries were convinced as Paul passionately challenged the Romans and the Church of Christ to share And preaching in a language they the Good News: understand. “How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And The message of the Bible - the Good News is a how can they believe in the one of transformative and indispensable tool to fulfil whom they have not heard? And Romans 10:13 that everyone who calls on the how can they hear without someone name of the Lord shall be saved. Hearing the preaching to them?” Romans 10:14 Good News is fundamental in prompting faith 12 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
that leads to salvation in the Lord Jesus Christ. It necessary to study and establish the grammar is the inspired revelation of God about the origin of the vernacular languages, understand their and destiny of man expressed in 2Timothy sound systems (phonology) before producing 3:16-17, essential for guiding those who believe working orthographies essential for developing and accept the Lord to live in righteousness. a writing system. This required linguistics skills And Paul affirms: to build dictionaries and anthropology to understand the culture and peoples’ beliefs and “For everything that was written practices to create the written language. It was in the past was written to teach us, time-consuming to say the least, mixed with so that through endurance and the diseases, suspicion of their intent, thus putting encouragement of the Scriptures we their lives in danger, and some were brutally might have hope.” Romans 15:4 murdered. Therefore, the bearers of the Good News “Translations unceasingly mediate the in their phenomenal responsibility, have a salvation of Christ Jesus from one culture to communicate in a language the hearers to another. Translation is not simply understand. However, in their passion, rendering individual words, sentences, or missionaries went to the uttermost parts of the even narratives. It involves penetrating the world where Hebrew, Greek, Latin, and even underlying culture, feeling its rhythms and English were not understandable to the target emotions as well as its values. It involves audience. They found people of cultures that operating in the worlds of the source text they termed primitive bushmen. It was almost and of the target text, being thoroughly at impossible to communicate the Good News home in both, crisscrossing comfortably to them due to obstacles they found on arrival. between them. It involves interpretive choices In their zeal, they tried sign language and other influenced by one’s values, belief systems, frantic efforts to learn the local language, also ideological orientation, and vocation.” Aloo identify local speakers’ assistance as interpreters Mojola and translators. Rev Prof Aloo Osotsi Mojola, currently a They were confronted with the most Professor at St. Paul’s University in Limuru. He challenging task of overcoming the oral was engaged in Bible translation since the early tradition, an obstacle to the reading and writing 1980s, working with the United Bible Societies culture. The use of the vernacular and the as a Translation Consultant, the Africa area translation of the Bible to the local languages Translation Coordinator participating in some was inevitable, as Jerome, Wycliffe and Tyndale sixty Bible translation projects in Africa. had found. However, to accomplish this, it was NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 13
We learn from him that the task of translation translation work, and 2014 languages need calls for the utmost sensitivity and care in the translation (or preparatory work) to begin. process of mediating as the translator cannot be cut off from their product. The translation has The Scripture update for Kenya: twenty much to do with the complexities of the source languages have a whole Bible, fourteen text world and the target text world, including languages have a New Testament (some have the translator’s world. The translator’s invisibility Old Testament portions), five languages with makes us blind to the fact that translators some translated Bible portions. The continuing are not free of values, ideologies, or agendas. work: thirteen languages have work in progress, Translators are implicated in all kinds of biases four languages are not vital enough to plan and preferences. We do well to remember that: translation work, and five languages need translation (or preparatory work) to begin. “The Law of the LORD is perfect; As one of the old saints said: The Bible, the Good it gives us new life. His teachings News, reveals the mind of God, the state of man, last forever, and they give wisdom the way of salvation, the doom of sinners, and to ordinary people. The LORD’s the happiness of believers. Its doctrines are holy, instruction is right; it makes our hearts its precepts are binding, its histories are true, and glad. His commands shine brightly, its decisions are immutable. and they give us light.” Psalm 19:7-8 CEV Therefore, let us read the Good News to be wise, believe it to be safe, and practice it to Wycliffe Global Alliance of Wycliffe be holy. It contains light to direct you, food to Organisations, SIL International, United Bible support you, and comfort to cheer you. Societies and many other partners report of 1 October 2020 update progress of Scripture and May the Lord bless you as you read your Bible Language worldwide. Of the world population slowly, frequently and prayerfully. It is a mine of of 7.8 billion people speak 7,360 languages. wealth, a paradise of glory, and a river of pleasure. Thus, 7 billion people have some scriptures in Digest the message of the Bible to generate new 3,415 languages. Of these, 704 languages have energy and a vision according to the will of God. a whole Bible, 1,551 languages with a New AMEN. Testament (some also have Old Testament portions), and 1,160 languages with some *The writer of this article engaged in the Bible translated Bible portions. But of the continuing Society of Kenya in 1983 and was the founding work, 738 languages have work in progress, CEO of Bible Translation and Literacy for twenty 1,193 languages are not vital enough to plan years. 14 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
CTC SITE PROGRESS PHOTOS - AUGUST 2021 Elevation View from Uhuru Park Elevation View from Uhuru Park Skylight @Circulation area Amphitheatre & Open Courtyard NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 15
NCC Elevated Water Tower Children’s Chapel South East View South East View Children’s Chapel: Alter & Backstage Roof Attic Offices: Open Balcony @Circulation 16 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
View from Trinity Building Children’s Classrooms Eyebrow Roof Open Terrace: 1st Floor Facing Uhuru Park Open Terrace: 1st Floor Facing Uhuru Park Commercial Kitchen: 1st Floor Children’s Foyer Area: 1st Floor Car Ramp & Generator Room Aerial View Car Ramp from Ground Floor to 1st Floor NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 17
Ladies Washrooms Gents Washrooms Children’ Classroom: Internal Finishes Ongoing Children’s Classroom: Internal Finishes Ongoing Classrooms Two Ways Staircase Classrooms Two Ways Staircase Skylight: Polycarbonate Clear roof Cover Attic Passage with Clear Polycarbonate Cover 18 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
Skylight Atrium: With Clear Polycarbonate Cover Attic Floor: Gypsum Plasterboard Ceiling Cover Common Gallery & Lift Lobby Area Circulation Area: Hallway AC Indoor Units 14 Nos @Children’s Chapel Ceiling Basement Car Park: Jet Fans & Fire Sprinklers Generator Room Front View Elevation Generator Room: Internal Finishes Ongoing NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 19
Car Ramp: RC Wall & Floor Concrete Slab Car Ramp from Ground Floor to 1st Floor KPLC Smart Meter: Installed KPLC Transformer = 11000KVA Water Booster Pumps Fire Fighting Pump Set= Diesel + Electric + Jockey Pump Bishops of the Anglican Church of Kenya ACK Bishops Signing Visitors Book 20 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
My experience in Elephant Hill By Kimani Kamau I f you want to travel fast travel alone but if you want to travel farther travel in a group. As one of the youngest members of the Mt Kenya team, I can confirm that we have truly traveled as a team. We have held hands, literally through any challenge we have experienced in the ten hiking destinations we have been to. From the intense eighty-degree climb up an escarpment deep in the Menengai crater to the chilling weather of Mt Kipipiri that resulted in a hailstorm. Consequently, most of us arrived home at We arrived at our destination a few minutes ungodly hours (some of us as late as 2:30 am after 8 in the morning. It was seriously cold, but the next day). Through these experiences, our nothing out of the ordinary from the previous bonds have been strengthened. Given our good hikes we did. We engaged in some stretches chemistry as a team, we knew that we would and began the ascent of the mother of hills. conquer elephant hill. What was different Truly, elephant hill lived to its reputation. For this time is that unlike previous hikes we have starters, we hiked for one and a half hours before participated in there was a turnaround time to reaching the actual starting point. That took a reach the summit. It was 1 pm. Anyone who did toll on some of our teammates, but it did not not arrive at the summit by this time had to turn stop us from moving on. As soon as we started at around and head back to the starting point. In the actual starting point that is when the rubber addition, we all heard the stories of elephant hill. met the road for most of us. There were some It was a place that only the strongest mentally checkpoints within elephant hill one must pass could make it, the terrain was rugged, people to reach the summit. The first was the bamboo tend to give up even before they arrive at the forest. It was full of fresh mud from the previous summit, people shed tears because of the night’s rain and the drizzles that were happening difficulty and there is altitude sickness because as we were climbing. It was cold, but the fact of reaching altitudes of over 3500 meters above that you are sweating buckets and being on your sea level. To tell the truth, when we started our fours to climb the hill, counters the need for a journey to elephant hill at 0455 hours from jacket because it holds you back. Nairobi, I was scared, and chills ran down my spine. NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 21
After climbing your way through the forest, you support as well to support themselves. That arrive at your first checkpoint, the well-known is what pushed me, encouraged me to keep point of despair or desperado (3000m above moving. By the time I arrived at the tail very sea level). At this point, it’s so cold and foggy you few of our hikers had made it there. It was the cannot see the trail clearly and it was a crime not last checkpoint to the summit, which was two to wear gloves at this point. From there the next hours away. The remaining hikers kept pushing. checkpoint was the tail. It was about two and Luckily, some other teams were descending a half hours away from desperado. The terrain from the summit. They encouraged us by saying was not as intense as the bamboo forest, but it that we were almost there despite us not being was full of wet rocks and some mud that made close. We kept pushing and eventually arrived at climbing very difficult. One was easily prone to the summit at 1:30 pm. I felt like crying tears of falling. Oh, and it was still a steep ascent. It was joy once I arrived. I hugged the sign that showed so steep that we had to take 30-second breaks arrival at the summit. At that point my legs were within the climb to motivate each other. At a fatigued and that made the descent harder for point I asked myself if I will be able to climb Mt me. I fell five times at the descent. Despite the Kenya if this is the terrain and altitude we will be falling, I still made it together with the other climbing, will I reach the summit. But then you hikers and we regrouped. Elephant hill was hard. remember how far you have gone. People got sick because of altitude sickness, others fell, sobbed from the difficulty of the hike, and did not manage to reach the summit at the turnaround time. But we are a team, we got each other’s back, and no one has ever and will never be left behind. We are to go back to elephant hill in October this year as one of the last preparation hikes. We will conquer How many times you have fallen from previous it as a team as we will come back with stronger hikes and risen. You remember you are not mindsets. alone in this, and your teammates need your 22 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
EDUCATION SCHOLASHIP: My Testimony Millicent Lilian Momesu During this period, I enrolled for driving lessons and got a driving licence class BCE with an aim of becoming a driver because with KCPE I was born and breed in Busia county in a certificate that is the only job that could meet village known as Matayos in a family of seven my qualifications. siblings ; I ‘am a sixth born amongst my siblings. It is at this point that I discovered that KCPE After my Kenya Certificate of Primary Education qualification was limiting and I could not (KCPE), I could not proceed to secondary become anything else other than a driver level due to lack of fees. It is at this point that period! Then something snapped out of me and I was identified among the bright pupils in I thought of going back to school after seven the village by a priest, Fr. Peter of Mundika years from the time I sat for my KCPE. Catholic church and enrolled in Matayos Youth Polytechnic where I took a course in dress I started by buying books and a school bag making and tailoring and attained Trade test and could carry the bag to the office (by faith), grade III certificate. note, I had no school in mind but I also bought a bicycle so as to hasten my movement from I then moved to Nairobi in the year 2005 to Home, job and school. But at this time I had no look for employment as a house help. In the girl’s school in mind. same year, I joined All Saints Cathedral Church where I have been fellowshipping and serving In 2010 I walked to the nearest school near my in the Swahili Choir to date. I got the job and work place Upper Hill Boys and asked the worked for a period of three years with four watchman to direct me to the Administration. different employers. It is my last employer By God’s grace I met madam Jane Ruoro whom by the name Ms. Elizabeth Muihaki Dufe I told my story, she got amazed right away that a from Togo who introduced me to KUSCCO girl was looking for an opportunity to advance where I currently work as a Clerical Officer. my education in a boys’ school and introduced I joined KUSCCO in 2008 as a cleaner with me to Subjects teachers who were more than little academic qualification. A year into my willing to offer tutorials for two hours a day in employment as a cleaner, I was promoted to a a week. Tea girl with my highest Education qualification of Primary School certificate. The boys were a bit uncomfortable at first with NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 23
a girl in their class but with time they embraced church where I fellowship and I have been a me and any time a miss classes they could ask member since 2005, All Saints Cathedral and after their girl Millie. for the first time I saw a scholarship program In the year 2013 I sat for my O level exams KCSE and I applied for scholarship, I was vetted as a private candidate under adult program and alongside others and again by God’s grace I managed to score grade D plain. On one hand qualified for the scholarship till I completed my I was happy at least I had an O level certificate studies and graduated last year 2020 on the 9th and on the other hand I knew I could do better October, and on 5th December, 2020 I wedded than that. I went back to form three in the year Dennis Momesu at AllSaints Church, to God 2014-2015 and gave it another attempt because be the Glory. I had a dream of being a graduate. This journey has been long and tiresome, talk of In 2015 I attained grade C+ (hureeeee)!! In sleepless nights reading and doing homework, my KCSE. Immediately I got my result slip and enduring and braving chilly mornings 4:00am presented to my employer GMD Mr. George to go the office and start preparing tea at Ototo KUSCCO LTD. through our Human 5:00am by 8:00am tea is served in all offices so Resource Manager (HRM) Ms. Gladys Lusweti as to get time off to run to school for two hours who recommended for my promotion after I then come back to collect utensil for cleaning. had proved to be resilient and industrious both Break at 3:00pm for my private studies and my at work and school. “God’s grace is sufficient house chores then sleep at midnight between and for sure hard work pays (Proverbs 14:23 12:00am and 3:00am. “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty”). I sincerely wish to thank The Very Rev Canon Sammy Wainaina, Provost of All Saints I saw the faithfulness of God, for sure like in the Cathedral and the UDP team for the award book of Joshua in the bible, “God never fails” He of the Urban Development Programme has never failed me. I enrolled for my degree Scholarship and the overwhelming financial, program at St. Pauls University Nairobi campus moral and spiritual support. Am also thankful to in the year 2016 by faith without knowing all those who have encouraged and supported where I will get the university fees. I had me in one way or the other throughout this already spent all my savings on my secondary journey. education. I approached my employer for a soft loan and it was granted and managed to pay for I wish to encourage all Christians that you can two semesters. serve the Lord regardless of where you are and what you do for a living. It calls for real sacrifice, At this point I felt like that was the end since I dedication and discipline but above all the fear had a running loan and couldn’t borrow again. of God. Let us not become weary in doing good, By God’s mercies and grace I came across for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we the church News and Views newsletter at my do not give up (Galatians 6:9) 24 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
Trinity Sports By Bigvai Mwailemi T he past few weeks have treated us to exciting sports activities here in Kenya and beyond. scheduled for 23rd July to 8th August in Tokyo Japan. The key highlight was the return of world rally championships after 19 years hiatus flagged off The President rallied the team to work hard as by His Excellency Uhuru Kenyatta on 24th June they had the sole responsibility of being our at KICC. ambassadors. The series put Kenya on the global map On matters football, Gor Mahia FC beat AFC (estimated 820 million viewers following) Leorpards on July 4th final of the FKF Cup at through it, more tourists’ will hopefully visit the the Nyayo National Stadium which was played country, a big boost to the tourism industry as behind closed doors. it reels from the effects of the pandemic. This ended on 27th June and was won by French The match had ended in a barren draw after a driver Sebastien Ogier. close contest which proceeded to spot kicks making Gor Mahia the ultimate winner (4- 1). The goalkeeper Gad Mathews saved two penalties. This was the 10th meeting between the two sides in the domestic cup earning them a place in the 2022 CAF Confederations cup. President Uhuru Kenyatta flags off World Rally Championships at KICC (Photo Courtesy NMG). On 8th July, team Kenya captained by Andrew AFC Leorpards’ Hansel Ochieng and Kenneth Amonde, was handed over the flag at Statehouse Mugunga of Gor Mahia during FKF Cup at Nairobi by the President. They represented us in Nyayo National Stadium on Sunday July 4th 2021 the summer Olympics in the global showpiece (Courtesy, The Standard) NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 25
Further afield, Euro final was played at Wembley Euro 2020 was a great success in view of Stadium in London on Sunday 11th July 2021 restrictions occasioned by the pandemic the between England and Italy. This was the first past year. The return of fans was a site to behold. final appearance of a major tournament since A passionate appeal goes to the Football winning the 1966 world cup. Italy on the other governing body (FIFA), Football Association hand had been to 10 major finals (6world cups (FA) and other sporting associations around and 4 Euros). They had never lost to England at the world to look at practicable ways to stem a major event. systemic racism in the sport.As Christians we condemn in the strongest terms possible England took an early lead through Luke Shaws’ decadent behavior devoid of virtues espoused thunderous hit at close range .Italy leveled in the Bible(Ephesians 5).We ought to entrench through Leornardo Bonucci midway in the the virtues of love for one another, tolerance and second half which proceeded goalless after extra forgiveness when players make mistakes during time to settle it on penalties where Italy won 3-2. high stakes matches. This was after the England players; Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka and Englands trophy drought continues despite Jordan Sancho missed their spot kicks and were being the best team in the tournament. racially abused on social media which is being investigated by London police. Euro 2020 Champions alongside Matteo Berrertini. (Photo Courtesy @azzurri) 26 NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021
We pray all the culprits will be brought to book He was incredible by defeating Italian Matteo and bring this vice to an end in the sport we love Berrettini 3 sets to 1. He controlled the game and are truly passionate about. and kept his opponents vicious forehand at bay. On ATP (Association of Tennis Professionals Tour), Wimbledon which is the third grand slam of the year ended on 11th July 2021 at All England Lawn Tennis club which was the 134th edition after 2020 edition was cancelled. We saw the return of fans at the park which was a phenomenal fete. The ladies Championship was won by Ash Barty who is the current world number one. She won her first Wimbledon title as a senior defeating Karolina Pliskova from Czech Republic in three dramatic sets on Centre Court to become the first Australian women’s Wimbledon champion for 41 years exactly a decade after winning the junior edition. Novak Djokovic with Gentlemen’s Singles Trophy at Centre Court (Photo Courtesy Wimbledon) The Serb epitomizes a champion with sheer humility which helps sports lovers around the world to learn from and emulate even when we have all successes in our careers. As Christians we take the positive lessons from these sports; discipline, hard work, and utmost trust in God helps us get to unprecedented levels we never thought possible. Ash Barty with the With the Crown (Photo Courtesy Wimbledon) As we look forward to Discipleship month in September, we are keen to see the opportunities The gentlemen’s championship saw the sheer sports present in fostering fellowship here in the masterclass of Novak Djokovic win his 6th Cathedral and beyond. Wimbledon title and a 20th grand slam equaling Roger Federer and Rafael Nadal tally. Have a blessed September month. NEWS & VIEWS | AUGUST 2021 27
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The All Saints’ Cathedral Trinity Centre offers modern and well furnished meeting rooms, an auditorium, a restaurant/cafeteria and serene grounds all within a pristine Christian environment. We have meeting rooms that are ideal for fundraisers, training/seminars, individual graduation receptions, cocktails, dinners and parties. While the auditorium which has a sitting capacity of 1800 is ideal for international and local conferences, wedding services/receptions, concerts / plays, AGMs, graduation ceremonies and dinners. Additionally, the auditorium is fitted with translation booths and state of the art audio-visual equipment. Contact us for more information/booking on 0728-271715 or Email: booking@allsaintsnairobi.org
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