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Kawangware, an area with both formal and informal settlements lies on the south-western outskirts of Nairobi in Kenya. A majority of the residents are low income earners. It is in this place that Elijah Lumiri Sakha pastors a congregation called Christian Grace Ministries. Elijah attended a VISION Conference that was organised by a local pastor’s fellowship in his locality. His eyes were opened to see ministry as much more than resources. He understood that application of Biblical truth is fundamental to community transformation.
He began teaching his church members on how to begin using limited local resources, and the primacy of love in serving others. After one teaching service, they all joined together and dug a pit latrine which will be used by both the church members and the community.
The church discussed with the surrounding community on what could be done about eth various social challenges. They decided to address issues related to education and ministry to those affected by HIV/AIDS. They opened a kindergarten and nursery school. The church organised training sessions for those members who would minister to HIV/Aids patients. The main goal of this was to help the patients earn a living through making and selling of baskets and ropes from readily available local resources.
The community has been holding a regular one-day event where they clean their environment and collect and dispose of refuse. This has brought an awakening to the community which now relates quite well with the church. The church opened a library on its premises for use by the community members. The truth of a Biblical worldview has brought tremendous change in the community, bringing alive the reality and love of Christ.
Story by Ken Mwangi, SSA
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