by Cindy Herter

In 2003 Bethany’s Session discerned that God was leading our congregation to respond to the devastating crisis caused by HIV/AIDS. The session made it a priority for us to take action, particularly in Africa.

Our community has been enriched by years of close ties to our Kenyan brothers and sisters. A number of Kenyans, like our beloved Philip and Esther Kitui, have worshipped with us while pursuing advanced studies in Seattle. Many have been health professionals seeking additional tools to combat the spread of AIDS in their country. With all these precious God-given relationships, it seemed clear that Kenya was/is the place for us to focus our efforts.

Since 2004 we have been in partnership with World Vision in sponsoring children in the Soweto slum of Nairobi. Our support has provided better health, education and spiritual development for over 150 children and their community.

We have also developed partnerships with several other ministries supporting widows and orphans affected by the AIDS crisis. Just this past summer, as part of the Families in Service ministry, over 400 books were collected for students at Christ’s Gift Academy in Mbita on Lake Victoria. This school has been providing top-notch education to impoverished children orphaned by AIDS.

During the last two Sundays of November, the Kenya AIDS Prayer and Planning team (KAPP) will be providing opportunities for our congregation to learn more about our partners and take steps to deepen our ties.

On November 22, World Vision staff will host a “sponsorship appreciation” event. Child sponsors will have an opportunity to learn what has been accomplished so far in Soweto, Kenya and what the goals are for the future. We’ll also share our stories and have time to write letters to the children. Two identical sessions will be held at 10:45 am and 12:15 pm. KAPP is trying to update our sponsor list, and anyone who didn’t receive a letter is asked to contact Renee Fredrickson, ananae@att.net, or the Bethany office (284.2222).

On November 29, our focus will be on two rural ministries (Christ’s Gift Academy and Lakeside Lampstand Centre Ministries – both near Lake Victoria) and two urban ministries (Sheepcare School and Mayatima – both in the Soweto community outside Nairobi) where we have sensed God leading us to be involved. There will also be an opportunity to preview the next short-term mission trip.

These relationships are mutually enriching as we learn about God and minister together in Jesus’ name. We hope you will come discover the joys and the hope that comes from deepening our Kenya connections.