This church was built on the site of one of the first churches I visited in 2004 outside of Kitale Kenya.  The pastor is Michael Wafula.  Pastor Wafula is also the Director of an organization of small churches spread throughout western Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and Sudan.  This has great potential for future ministry.

Though Michael lives in an area without electricity or running water, we communicate with each other several times a week through the internet - and have done so for the last five years.  Internet Cafe's are very popular in Africa.  Michael has learned how to take and send digital pictures.  This allows me to see every detail of the building project.

All of the work was done by members of the local congregation as well as local building contractors.  We were able to send all the necessary finances in several stages after pictures were received to verify the work had been accomplished.

This church was built with bricks but many churches in the area are built with mud and sticks.  A mud and stick building (if properly finished) can last for many years with some relatively minor upkeep.  Though brick construction is more expensive, there will be a sense of solid foundation which could last for generations.

It was a joy to witness this building process.  It was often hard to believe we had an impact on this community from the other side of the world.

The rains had caused a slight delay in the building, but church services continued within the portion of the church which had been completed.

Tin roof construction is very common.

From start to finish, this project was completed in about two months.

Just in case we forget, churches are built so they can be filled with people who are being taught the Word of God.

As this church was coming to completion, I was convicted by the realization that church buildings do not advance the Kingdom of God.  If we build buildings without a clear message of Salvation we have done nothing!

I was asked to write a message to be read to the congregation and gathering of pastors on opening day. 

The message I wrote was direct and presented what I believe to be the true gospel message.  Many churches around the world are preaching about Christ but are not presenting a message of Salvation.  This is very sad!  The message was read and twenty people came to a saving faith - including several pastors!!

I'm very pleased with what God allowed us to accomplish through this and other projects.  However, this is really only a first step.  The door has definitely been opened but we must pray harder than ever before to determine what God would have us do.  Please continue to pray for direction for me and for those who support this ministry.

Click here to read the Gospel Message read for the opening celebration.