Africa 2008 Report

A Report from Mary Whelchel

Our ministry trip to Africa this year included Kampala, Uganda, July 12 - 18, and Nairobi, Kenya, July 19 - 28. Lucinda Finck, Director of Operations of The Christian Woman, and I, presented four-day conferences in each city, specifically targeting women in leadership positions in their churches and other Christian organizations. The curriculum for the two meetings was similar, focusing on principles for relationships, dealing with broken and destructive relationships, developing true disciples, and facing issues related to marriage and singleness. In addition, both Lucinda and I presented in-depth Bible study focusing on Exodus and Mary of Bethany.

This was our second conference in Kampala, and the attendance increased considerably from last year. We've been ministering in Nairobi and other parts of Kenya for many years, but we saw a dramatic increase in attendance there, double the number from last year. This is partly due to our program now being heard on HOPE FM out of Nairobi, so there is more name recognition and a better way to advertise the meetings.

In each city a committee works many months prior to the conference to prepare, and we are deeply indebted to these women who selflessly give of their time and skills to make these conferences possible. Special thanks must go to Lois Seruyange of Life Ministries in Uganda and Elsy Riungu of Nairobi International School of Theology for their leadership on these committees. It goes without saying that we could never have these conferences without their involvement and support.

Each day began at 8:30 and continued until 4:15, and the women were most receptive and attentive throughout the four days. Each day we gave time for questions and answers and did our best to give a biblical perspective for some very complicated issues that are encountered by these godly women. Women who attended all four days were presented with a certificate, which they very highly value.

FUTURE MINISTRY

We plan by God's grace to return next year because the women are most eager for us to continue these conferences. We definitely can see how God uses them and how the ministry is mutliplied through these women in leadership positions.

The women are aware that we are able to go to Africa because of the generous support of their sisters in Christ here, and they always want us to extend their heartfelt gratitude for those who make it possible for us to minister to them.