On Sunday 25th January 2009, CML had the opportunity to minister at St. Georges Girls High School in Nairobi. This is one of the schools outside Rongo district with whom CML has maintained a good ministry working relationship. As usual, the girls were radiant, and after the praise and worship session, we were blessed with various presentations by the students.
Mrs Wario, the CU Patron then called on us to formally introduce ourselves as this was the first time Denise and I were ministering here as a couple. The students were very happy for us, and after the service, one of them was glad to hand Denise a note full of encouragement and prayer for blessings God's will upon our marriage life.
My wife Denise shared a valuable teaching on Prayer, focusing on three major aspects:
1. What is Prayer?
2. The Purpose of Prayer
3. The benefit of Prayer
Bellow is the teaching material she shared from:
As Christians we may talk a lot “about” God but may talk very little “to” God
1 John 5:14 “This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.”
#1) What is Prayer?
Simply put prayer is communication with God.
The Hebrew word for prayer, "li-heet-pallel," comes from the root "pallel," which means to inspect. The prefix "li-heet" is the reflexive form - denoting an action that one does to oneself. "Li-heet- pallel," therefore, is an act of personal introspection.
When you are in relationship with someone you communicate with them, you talk to them & listen to them. Mom and dad, girlfriends, boyfriends, family etc….It is a two way communication…talking and listening facilitates intimacy between those “in relationship”. “Be still & know I am the Lord”…. through prayer we realize the reality of God’s presence with us. After Adam, but prior to Jesus communication with God was not so simple. God spoke directly to Adam but that changed after sin.
The 1st communication we see after the Garden of Eden is an offering given by Cain & Abel…sacrifices of grain and animals. Original Hebrew word for sacrifice is korban /Koran meaning to “come close”. After the temple was built communications was done largely through the High Priest. Exodus and Leviticus gives elaborate details of how the Priest was to be the intercessor or “go between” for God and man. There was danger of immediate death if he was not properly consecrated, hence the Priest had bells on hem of garment. Like getting an audience with the President…would you expect to just be able and walk into the Office of the President and speak to President Kibaki or Obama?
Prayer is Privileged communication bought with the blood of Christ. Prayer can be short, long, simple, eloquent, spoken, non-spoken, said in public, private, early in the morning, late at night, for others, for yourself or just for God…there is no wrong way or right way. We are to pray without ceasing….
Eph 3:12 “ Because of Christ and our faith in Him we can NOW come fearlessly into God’s presence assured of His glad welcome.”
# 2) What is the purpose of Prayer? A.C.T.S.
A = Adoration
Adore God, love Him and praise Him for who He is.
"Yours, O LORD, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, O LORD, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all."1 Chronicles 29:11
Praise (worship & exalt the Lord) – The Psalms are songs of praise exalting the character & attributes of God… they were read or sung. Praise helps sensitize us to the awesomeness of God…when His character is put in perspective and we can no help but worship Him. Psalm 66:4 says “All the earth shall worship thee”
C = Confession
Admit your sins to God, ask for His forgiveness through faith that Jesus died for our sins. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." 1 John 1:9
Confession- Luke 18:13“- Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God, I thank You that I am not like other men—extortioners, unjust, adulterers, or even as this tax collector. I fast twice a week; I give tithes of all that I possess.’ And the tax collector, standing afar off, would not so much as raise his eyes to heaven, but beat his breast, saying, ‘God, be merciful to me a sinner!’ I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other; for everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.”
T = Thanksgiving
Thank God for answered prayers, for the good things He has done in your life. For growth. "Always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:20
S = Supplication (supplication, making a request unto the Lord)
Pray for your family and friends, for those who are sick or sad. Pray for those who are not Christians yet. Pray for your own spiritual growth and any other needs that you may have.
"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. "Matthew 7:7
Phil 4:6 “Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God;
Seek and secure the will of God. The purpose of prayer is to get our lives aligned with God. Jesus taught us to pray for God’s will to be done on earth as it is in heaven. This is the most basic purpose of prayer. More specifically desiring God’s will be done on earth is tantamount to getting his will done in my life.
Intersession- Abraham pleaded for Sodom; Job prayed for his children, the Prophets Isaiah and Jeremiah prayed for the children of Israel. 1 Tim 2:1 Therefore I 1exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men,
Jesus pleads for us=Hebrews 7:25. "He (JESUS) is able to save forever those who draw near to God through him, because he always lives to make intercession for them".
The reading of psalms was viewed in Jewish tradition as a vehicle for gaining God's favor…much like we sometimes view prayer. They are thus often specially recited in times of trouble, such as poverty, disease, or physical danger; However Jewish scholars agree that this practice was not designed to achieve favor, as such, but rather to teach belief in Divine Providence and thus embrace these truths into one's consciousness. “Romans 12:2 - be transformed by the renewing of your mind “then” you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is.”
To say that "prayer changes things" is not as close to the truth as saying, "Prayer changes me.” The ultimate purpose for prayer is to help us see ourselves as God sees us and thus be transformed.
#3) What are the benefits/provisions of prayer?
Salvation- "There is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved" (Acts 4.12) " if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved." (Romans 10:9)
Pardon- 1 John 1: 9 - “if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins”
Protection & DELIVERANCE- James 5:13 - If any of you are in trouble, he should pray....
Psalm 86:1 &2 - Hear, O Lord, and answer me, for I am poor and needy. Guard my life, for I am devoted to you. Deliver me speedily; Be my rock of refuge a fortress of defense to save me. For you are my rock and my fortress
Comfort- 2 Cor 1:3 - who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.
Peace- Psalm 122:6 - “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: May those who love you be secure.”
Wisdom
Guidance
Strength & firm foundation to resist temptation –Luke 22:40- "pray that you may not enter into temptation”
2 Cor 13:7 - Now I pray to God that you do no evil, not that we should appear approved, but that you should do what is honorable.
Col 1:9-12- For this reason we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and longsuffering with joy..."
Healing- James 5:14 - Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. And the prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise him up.
I pray that you also may benefit from this teaching and develop a prayerful life in Christ Jesus. Amen.
Friday, January 30, 2009
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Promising Future Soccer Professionals
In our holistic approach, the CML Sports Evangelism Program is also intended to facilitate the flourishing of young talents through appropriate exposure to talent development opportunities. Apart from facilitating social growth, physical development, Spiritual nourishment, behavior change and reduction of stress amongst the youth, the Sports Evangelism program is also aimed at facilitating the identification and nurturing of the budding soccer talents in the youth. To the extent that this program achieves any of its objectives, we owe all the Glory to God and much gratitude to SoccerGrow.org, our cherished partner.
Both Douglas and Kenneth (see photos attached) were Grade 8 candidates in their respective schools last year. Even as they participated in the soccer tournament, they were at the same time preparing for the final year-end examinations. They managed to balance their time well between academics and sports, and successfully sat for the exams in November last year. The results are out and both have qualified to proceed to High School- Form 1 (Freshmen) this year. Kenneth performed much better and has already secured admission to Kanga High School. Douglas is yet to receive his admission letter.
We believe that the promotion to High School will grant these young boys the exposure that will facilitate the flourishing of their talent in soccer. They will be participating in the annual High School Soccer Tournaments. They both have the potential to develop their talent to great success.
This is the challenge: both boys’ parents are not able to pay their high school tuition fees, and neither are they able to provide for the basic supplies necessary for high school boarding students. At the current exchange rate, Kenneth’s admission letter requires that he pays US$ 300 Tuition for this academic year and the supplies would cost an additional US$ 130. We anticipate Douglas’ admission letter would have similar financial requirements.
During the last Soccer tournament that ended on the December 14th 2008, Kenneth Oloo and Douglas Ogolla were identified amongst the best disciplined players. They are both 15 years old and participated in the Primary Schools Category. Douglas played for Kitere Primary School team while Kenneth played for Toku Primary School team. As we reported in the CML blog, Kitere Primary School finished 2nd after Toku Primary School beat them in the finals. Both boys were very instrumental in bringing their respective teams to the finals.
Kenneth holding the prizes his team won in the finals.
Douglas during the tournament.
Both Douglas and Kenneth (see photos attached) were Grade 8 candidates in their respective schools last year. Even as they participated in the soccer tournament, they were at the same time preparing for the final year-end examinations. They managed to balance their time well between academics and sports, and successfully sat for the exams in November last year. The results are out and both have qualified to proceed to High School- Form 1 (Freshmen) this year. Kenneth performed much better and has already secured admission to Kanga High School. Douglas is yet to receive his admission letter.
We believe that the promotion to High School will grant these young boys the exposure that will facilitate the flourishing of their talent in soccer. They will be participating in the annual High School Soccer Tournaments. They both have the potential to develop their talent to great success.
This is the challenge: both boys’ parents are not able to pay their high school tuition fees, and neither are they able to provide for the basic supplies necessary for high school boarding students. At the current exchange rate, Kenneth’s admission letter requires that he pays US$ 300 Tuition for this academic year and the supplies would cost an additional US$ 130. We anticipate Douglas’ admission letter would have similar financial requirements.
You can be instrumental in promoting these boys, and many others like them, if only you can dare believe they have the potential and take a simple action. Such facilitating action may take many forms including:
1. Donating soccer equipment
2. Contributing towards their Tuition Expenses
3. Arranging and financing an excursion trip for a friendly match
4. Sponsoring a tournament
5. Recommending them to a Sponsor
6. Making a trip to encourage them personally
You can do something today, You can build future Soccer Professionals!
Do not hesitate to contact us through e-mail: thechristianmile@yahoo.com
Blessings.
Our first in-campus mission in 2009.
On Sunday 18th January, my wife Denise and I had our first in-campus mission this year at the Marion Senior School located within Kahawa-West in Nairobi. This is a private boarding high school for both boys and girls.
The students had just finished their lively praise and worship session when we arrived. We were warmly welcomed by the Christian Union Patron Madam Mercy Gichohi accompanied by the Students’ leader. We later learned that the entire students’ body assembles for the service every Sunday morning till 11am. This time the number was relatively small because the Form 1 students had not yet been admitted.
We had a blessed time watching and listening to the presentations offered by the students. The items ranged from songs, poems to encouragements from Scripture. It was great to witness the students exercising the gifts and talents God has given them, all to the glory of His name.
We were informed that the School had chosen “FAITH” to be the theme for the term. Madam Mercy formally welcomed us to introduce ourselves. Thereafter, my wife introduced the session on Faith. She started by giving both the dictionary definition and the Biblical Definition of faith.
Dictionary Faith:
- Confident belief in the truth, value, or trustworthiness of a person, idea, or thing.
- Belief that does not rest on logical proof or material evidence.
- Loyalty to a person or thing; allegiance: keeping faith with one's supporters.
- Often in Christianity, the theological virtue defined as secure belief in God and a trusting acceptance of God's will.
- The body of dogma of a religion: the Muslim faith.
- A set of principles or beliefs.
Biblical Faith:
Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV) - “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
“Christianity is distinguished not by its faith, but rather by the object of its Object of faith”
Based on the Hebrews chapter 11, Denise proceeded to emphasize the three aspects of the Christian Faith:
Objective faith- the fundamental biblical truth about Who God Is, His relationship with Man, Purpose for man, the sinful nature of man, Salvation through His Son Jesus Christ, and ultimate plans for man.
Subjective faith- man’s active response towards the Object of faith- believing the Holy Scripture, accepting and receiving Jesus Christ as the personal Lord and Savior, total surrender and commitment of ones life into His hands for safekeeping.
Active faith- Objective faith and Subjective faith leads to an active obedience to the One being trusted. The one exercising faith undergoes transformation, progressively living out that which he/she believes, in conduct, behavior and speech. Christ-likeness being the ultimate goal of this Transformation.
Christian faith helps the believer to endure, persevere and prevail in the face of daily life challenges. It is the gift of God through which we obtain eternal life.
I then concluded by highlighting the fact that the youth of today needs the Christian faith to resist negative peer pressure, to maintain sexual purity, to abstain from drug & substance abuse, to resist the urge to cheat in exams, to obey authorities and refrain from destructive strikes, to develop a healthy self esteem, to make right choices in career and relationships, and to develop a godly perspective of success in life.
Madam Mercy finished with a word of prayer before seeing us off to the parking lot.
We thank the Lord for the opportunity to be a blessing to Marion School students, just as they were a blessing to us that morning.
In all these, May the Lord God be Glorified.
Amen.
The students had just finished their lively praise and worship session when we arrived. We were warmly welcomed by the Christian Union Patron Madam Mercy Gichohi accompanied by the Students’ leader. We later learned that the entire students’ body assembles for the service every Sunday morning till 11am. This time the number was relatively small because the Form 1 students had not yet been admitted.
We had a blessed time watching and listening to the presentations offered by the students. The items ranged from songs, poems to encouragements from Scripture. It was great to witness the students exercising the gifts and talents God has given them, all to the glory of His name.
We were informed that the School had chosen “FAITH” to be the theme for the term. Madam Mercy formally welcomed us to introduce ourselves. Thereafter, my wife introduced the session on Faith. She started by giving both the dictionary definition and the Biblical Definition of faith.
Dictionary Faith:
- Confident belief in the truth, value, or trustworthiness of a person, idea, or thing.
- Belief that does not rest on logical proof or material evidence.
- Loyalty to a person or thing; allegiance: keeping faith with one's supporters.
- Often in Christianity, the theological virtue defined as secure belief in God and a trusting acceptance of God's will.
- The body of dogma of a religion: the Muslim faith.
- A set of principles or beliefs.
Biblical Faith:
Hebrews 11:1 (NKJV) - “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.”
“Christianity is distinguished not by its faith, but rather by the object of its Object of faith”
Based on the Hebrews chapter 11, Denise proceeded to emphasize the three aspects of the Christian Faith:
Objective faith- the fundamental biblical truth about Who God Is, His relationship with Man, Purpose for man, the sinful nature of man, Salvation through His Son Jesus Christ, and ultimate plans for man.
Subjective faith- man’s active response towards the Object of faith- believing the Holy Scripture, accepting and receiving Jesus Christ as the personal Lord and Savior, total surrender and commitment of ones life into His hands for safekeeping.
Active faith- Objective faith and Subjective faith leads to an active obedience to the One being trusted. The one exercising faith undergoes transformation, progressively living out that which he/she believes, in conduct, behavior and speech. Christ-likeness being the ultimate goal of this Transformation.
Christian faith helps the believer to endure, persevere and prevail in the face of daily life challenges. It is the gift of God through which we obtain eternal life.
I then concluded by highlighting the fact that the youth of today needs the Christian faith to resist negative peer pressure, to maintain sexual purity, to abstain from drug & substance abuse, to resist the urge to cheat in exams, to obey authorities and refrain from destructive strikes, to develop a healthy self esteem, to make right choices in career and relationships, and to develop a godly perspective of success in life.
Madam Mercy finished with a word of prayer before seeing us off to the parking lot.
We thank the Lord for the opportunity to be a blessing to Marion School students, just as they were a blessing to us that morning.
In all these, May the Lord God be Glorified.
Amen.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
Student Sponsorship Opportunities
We thank all the CML partners for their support that facilitated the successful launch of the CML Scholarship program last year. Your prayers and financial support went a long way in enabling several needy students to continue with school during the last year. More than 12 High School Students and 10 Primary School Students benefited from the CML Scholarship Fund in 2008. Three young people managed to graduate from high school through your support. We specially thank God for you and pray that you continue to be a blessing to others as His blessings continue to abound for you in 2009 and beyond.
This year, we continue to offer this invitation for you to pray about giving a gift that will have a direct and lasting impact in the lives of young Kenyans. So many bright, dedicated teenagers are unable to complete their education. This in turn contributes to the cycle of poverty and ignorance. It also affects the young people’s understanding, appreciation and belief in God as the Father who cares and provides for them.
For the youth we have profiled below, the separation, loss of one or both parents or the ensuing lack of finances has resulted in their missing school or accumulating large “Past Due Balances”. Nevertheless, these challenges have not diminished their hope or determination to succeed!
We will continually be updating this blog entry with information on other needy students and other information as necessary. Please do feel free to invite your other friends to pray about this ministry opportunity.
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This year, we continue to offer this invitation for you to pray about giving a gift that will have a direct and lasting impact in the lives of young Kenyans. So many bright, dedicated teenagers are unable to complete their education. This in turn contributes to the cycle of poverty and ignorance. It also affects the young people’s understanding, appreciation and belief in God as the Father who cares and provides for them.
For the youth we have profiled below, the separation, loss of one or both parents or the ensuing lack of finances has resulted in their missing school or accumulating large “Past Due Balances”. Nevertheless, these challenges have not diminished their hope or determination to succeed!
As you read about the students below, please note that School fees vary by school and grade and reflect the annual cost. The “Additional Est. Cost” covers the necessary items boarding students must supply such as uniforms, socks & shoes, gym attire, mattresses, sheets, blankets, washing basins, soap and hygiene products. Having purchased these items for numerous students in the past year, we estimate the cost to be between$300- $350.00 per student per year.
If you are a student yourself, consider making this a school project. In addition to meeting the financial need of a Kenyan student, we believe this would provide you and your school a positive cross-cultural learning experience.
We will continually be updating this blog entry with information on other needy students and other information as necessary. Please do feel free to invite your other friends to pray about this ministry opportunity.
Tilly Atieno Ouma - Age 15
Tilly is a very soft spoken, bright, Form 3 student that attends Ulanda Girls' High School. An orphan, she and her 3 siblings are being cared for by their uncles. The uncles, who are also responsible for their own children and other extended family members, often are unable to pay Tilly’s school fees and she has in the past, missed some school because of this. In spite of the difficulties she has faced, her academic performance has been excellent and she finished 1st in her class of 195 students this past term. Tilly benefited from the CML Scholarship program last year.
Tilly is a very soft spoken, bright, Form 3 student that attends Ulanda Girls' High School. An orphan, she and her 3 siblings are being cared for by their uncles. The uncles, who are also responsible for their own children and other extended family members, often are unable to pay Tilly’s school fees and she has in the past, missed some school because of this. In spite of the difficulties she has faced, her academic performance has been excellent and she finished 1st in her class of 195 students this past term. Tilly benefited from the CML Scholarship program last year.
In a short paper about her career goals, Tilly writes “ My role models are doctors...they motivate me and make me know that if they made it...I can also make it. Being a girl doesn’t hinder me from fulfilling my dreams, not even my background. God is always present... and has good plans for my future”. With this positive attitude and all A’s in Chemistry, Math, Physics & Biology -her dream of being a Doctor is very possible. Tilly says that her faith, prayers, and discipline keep her going and provide her with hope for the future.
2009 School fees: $ 582.00 USD Additional Est. Cost: $300.00 USD
TOTAL COST for this school year: $882.00 USD
TOTAL COST for this school year: $882.00 USD
Collins Odhiambo Okoth - Age 16
Collins is the only boy in a family consisting of 4 sisters and his mother. The death of his father in 2005 was devastating for his family and brought with it many financial hardships. With a meager income of about $30.00 per month, it has been difficult for his mother to pay school fees for 5 children. As a result, Collins' oldest sister had to quite school and his school performance has been affected by absenteeism.
He has not been able to afford school fees for boarding and has therefore opted to be a day scholar at Sigiria Mixed School. Collins is among those who benefited from the CML Scholarship program in 2008.
In spite of that, his teachers say he is a sensitive, hard working and dedicated young man with good potential. Collins is now in From 3, and he says that he wants to become a lawyer and "help people of my area and community".
2009 School fees: $150.00 USD Additional Est. Cost: $250.00 USD
TOTAL COST for this year: $400.00 USD
Rebecca Adhiambo Ododa - Age 16
Rebecca is a Form 3 student currently attending Dede Girls High School. Rebecca is an above average student and had received invitations from Private Schools in Nairobi to join High School but could not accept due to lack of finances. She was 3rd in her class in 2008. Her mother died in 2003 and her father is left to support her and 3 other children on less than $100 per month. He sold the family cows to pay for her school fees in 2007. Last year, Rebacca is among those who benefited from the CML Scholarship program.
Rebecca is a Form 3 student currently attending Dede Girls High School. Rebecca is an above average student and had received invitations from Private Schools in Nairobi to join High School but could not accept due to lack of finances. She was 3rd in her class in 2008. Her mother died in 2003 and her father is left to support her and 3 other children on less than $100 per month. He sold the family cows to pay for her school fees in 2007. Last year, Rebacca is among those who benefited from the CML Scholarship program.
Her teachers report that besides her superb academic performance, Rebecca is a humble, polite and dedicated student. She is active in drama, sports and the church youth choir. Rebecca's dream of becoming a Doctor would be made possible with your help.
2009 School fees: $359.00 USD Additional Est. Cost: $300.00 USD
TOTAL COST for this school year: $659.00 USD
TOTAL COST for this school year: $659.00 USD
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Maureen Achieng Okaka - Age 18
Maureen is a very quiet and humble young lady. A partial orphan with only her elderly father to support her and 4 other siblings, she is currently staying with one of her teachers and wants more than anything to be able to return to school and complete her education.
Maureen is a very quiet and humble young lady. A partial orphan with only her elderly father to support her and 4 other siblings, she is currently staying with one of her teachers and wants more than anything to be able to return to school and complete her education.
Her teacher and Pastor report that she is a God-fearing girl of good character and was a good student. Her past school transcripts show that she was indeed an above average student. Due to lack of money for school fees, Maureen missed 1st term school in 2008. She was however able to join Form 2 in 2nd term as a result of support through the CML Scholarship program. Even then, Maureen managed to be 4th in her class of 37 students last year. With your financial help, she would continue and complete Form 3 this year.
2009 School fees: $353.00 USD Additional Est. Cost: $300.00 USD
TOTAL COST for this school year: $653.00 USD
2009 School fees: $353.00 USD Additional Est. Cost: $300.00 USD
TOTAL COST for this school year: $653.00 USD
Andrew Baraka Some - Age 18
Baraka and his 4 siblings are total orphans. Due to extreme poverty, only one of his siblings has been able to complete high school. With the help of his 25 year old brother who himself quit school and took a job doing bicycle repair, Baraka has been able to be on and off school. His dream of being one of the few in the family to complete school also includes going on to become an engineer so he can also help his younger siblings and the disadvantaged in the community.
Baraka and his 4 siblings are total orphans. Due to extreme poverty, only one of his siblings has been able to complete high school. With the help of his 25 year old brother who himself quit school and took a job doing bicycle repair, Baraka has been able to be on and off school. His dream of being one of the few in the family to complete school also includes going on to become an engineer so he can also help his younger siblings and the disadvantaged in the community.
His past academic performance show good grades and great potential if his school attendance can be maintained without absenteeism due to lack of school fees.
2009 School fees: $383.00 USD
Additional Est. Cost: $300.00 USD
(Past Due Balance: $850.00)
TOTAL COST for this school year: $683.00 USD
(Past Due Balance: $850.00)
TOTAL COST for this school year: $683.00 USD
You can mail donations for Student Scholarships to the address below. If you want to sponsor a specific student, please attach a note bearing the student’s name.
On the check memo line, write “Davenport CML Account #2686”
Global Outreach International
P. O. Box 1
Tupelo, MS 38802.
Please Note:
On the check memo line, write “Davenport CML Account #2686”
Global Outreach International
P. O. Box 1
Tupelo, MS 38802.
Please Note:
All donations for Student Scholarships, including any remaining funds after payment of actual expenses for a specific student, will remain in the CML Students’ Scholarship fund and would be used for the sole purpose of assisting other needy students.
Blessings!
Blessings!
Monday, January 5, 2009
Soccer Tournament Finals on 14th December 2008
This boy did not care that his ball looked rugged......he passionately held onto it as he cheered his school team in the finals. And when it was half time, together with his peers, they quickly organized a game beside the main field. It was wonderful to watch such mushrooming talents! The question is, will they get opportunity for exposure and nurturing? You and I can facilitate that......
The prizes were awarded to the winners as follows:
Community Youth Clubs Category:
Position 1: Kitere CML Football Club:Trophy, 1 Soccer Ball & Kshs. 5,000 Cash
Position 2: Kanga Football Club: Trophy, 1 Soccer Ball & Kshs. 2,500 Cash.
Position 3: Kuja Football Club: Trophy, 1 Soccer Ball & Kshs. 1,500 Cash.
Primary Schools Category:
Position 1: Toku Primary School: Trophy & 1 Soccer Ball.
Position 2: Kitere Primary School: Trophy & 1 Soccer Ball.
Position 3: Kuja Primary School: Trophy & 1 Soccer Ball.
On Sunday 14th December, 2008 we had the finals program for the Soccer Tournament that had been running since late September 2008. The Soccer Tournament is part of CML’s Sports Evangelism Program. We are honored to declare that SoccerGrow has been the sole instrumental partner in facilitating the launching and final success of this program. SoccerGrow donated the soccer balls, field cones and ball pumps for this program.
As we reported earlier, 8 Schools registered in the Primary Schools Category and 13 Clubs registered in the Community Youth Clubs Category.
To determine the winners and runners-up in each category, 4 matches were played on the finals day. We hope to post video clips of the finals and during prize giving.
The prizes were awarded to the winners as follows:
Community Youth Clubs Category:
Position 1: Kitere CML Football Club:Trophy, 1 Soccer Ball & Kshs. 5,000 Cash
Position 2: Kanga Football Club: Trophy, 1 Soccer Ball & Kshs. 2,500 Cash.
Position 3: Kuja Football Club: Trophy, 1 Soccer Ball & Kshs. 1,500 Cash.
Primary Schools Category:
Position 1: Toku Primary School: Trophy & 1 Soccer Ball.
Position 2: Kitere Primary School: Trophy & 1 Soccer Ball.
Position 3: Kuja Primary School: Trophy & 1 Soccer Ball.
Certain challenges were noted:
It was noted that the preaching sessions were not as consistent as planned because of the interference from the rains. Several matches were also not played on the scheduled days/times because of the heavy rains. There was also the challenge of getting qualified referees who could volunteer their services. There was complaint that the female gender was neglected in this tournament. There were cases of exchange of harsh words between the spectators/supporters and players.
Nevertheless, certain advantages were also noted:
During the period of the tournament, it was confirmed that cases of youth idleness and drunkenness was reduced. Students, especially the candidates had opportunity to release stress from the studies as they engaged in physical exercise. Several youths were selected to play in the sub-locational/ locational Soccer tournaments organized by the local Department of Youth Affairs. Local youths had opportunity every weekend to interact and socialize peacefully. The youth benefited both physically and spiritually.
We hope to improve on the challenging areas in 2009, especially as we plan for the High Schools Soccer Tournament in the 1st term. We thank God for the everything He is doing in the lives of the young people through this program. We also thank God for our partners in this program. For those who are not yet involved, it is never late to get involved in the such life transforming programs. We value your prayers and donations.
Blessings in 2009.
December 2008 Students' Camp
We had our end year students’ camp at Kanga High School from the 6th to the 13th December 2008. This was slightly longer than the August camp mainly because most students are available to attend, as there is no mandatory holiday tuition in December.
We had full camp attendance this time: 43 students attended, and we were 7 facilitators including 1 student who had just graduated from high school.
The theme of the camp was: “Youth Transformation Through Christ”.
The Key Scriptures portions were:
1 Thessalonians 5:23 (NIV)
“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Romans 12:2 (NIV)
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
We planned the December camp to have an emphasis on “Christian Leadership”. This is because of the need to cultivate authentic Christian leadership qualities in the youth. This was a valuable change in the program for the students who had attended the previous CML camps. The last 3 days had 4 sessions on leadership: Basic Leadership Qualities, The Heart of a Leader, Vision and Leadership and Decision Making & Leadership. We borrowed mostly from John Maxwell’s materials on Leadership.
Elishah Otewa, a Form 4 graduate student of Kanyawanga Boys High School facilitated the session on Basic Leadership Qualities. We give such opportunities to students who have participated in previous CML Camps. With time we are able to observe the students and encourage them to exercise their emerging leadership qualities. Soon, we hope to post a video clip of Elishah facilitating this session.
The program catered for the students’ spiritual formation: There were sessions on basic Christian Foundations like Who is God?/ His Qualities and names, Who we are in Christ/ A Healthy Self Esteem, The Trichotomy of Man(Spirit, Soul and Body), Salvation, Justification and Sanctification.
Other sessions were: Media/Music, Moral Purity, Peer Pressure, Sexuality, Relationships and Drug & Substance Abuse. To emphasize the importance of good use of media, we showed three movies: The Gospel of John (on the 1st day), Mary Goretty and Hitch.
There were sessions for both indoor and outdoor games. Apart from physical exercise and social time, the games were aimed at emphasizing the importance of, and encouraging the students to embrace teamwork, trust in relationships, co-ordination, flexibility and respect for the leadership.
We also provided time for open question forum, one-on-one counseling, Praise and Worship, Workshop & Presentations, Talent Presentations and Riddles.
One of the remarkable additions into the December Camp Program was the Community Outreach/ Service. On Friday morning before lunch, we dedicated 5 hours of reaching out and serving in the surrounding community. This part of the program provides the students with the opportunity to practically witness the challenges and problems encountered by the people in the community, empathize with them and have a hands on experience in serving the needy in the society. They get to emulate Christ, who is our role model in Christian Leadership, by exercising some of the qualities they learned during the leadership sessions.
On this day we all visited Mama Benta at her home. The lady is a widow with 3 surviving children below the age of 10. Benta is handicapped in the left hand, and therefore unable to perform most of her domestic chores. She fellowships at Kitere Glory Community Church, one of the local churches that CML partners with in Community ministry. We divided ourselves in to small groups and helped Benta with any domestic work that was available.
Bellow are some December 2008 Camp Attendance Statistical Data:
Gender:
Male Students: - 26 Students
Female Students: - 17 Students
Schools Represented:
Primary Schools: - 10
High Schools: - 11
Total: - 21
17 Schools within Rongo District
4 Schools outside Rongo District
First-time attendees: - 22 Students
Returning Students: - 21 Students
Grade Levels Represented:
Primary Class/Grade 5: - 2 Students
Primary Class/Grade 7: - 2 Students
Primary Class/Grade 8: - 5 Students
High School Form 1/Grade 9: - 5 Students
High School Form 2/Grade 10: - 4 Students
High School Form 3/Grade 11: - 14 Students
High School Form 4/Grade 12 - 5 Students
High School Form 4/ Grade 12 Graduates: - 6 Students
Age Distribution:
10 Yrs old: - 1 Student
13 Yrs old: - 4 Students
14 Yrs old: - 3 Students
15 Yrs old: - 3 Students
16 Yrs old: - 3 Students
17 Yrs old: - 8 Students
18 Yrs old: - 13 Students
19 Yrs old: - 3 Students
20 Yrs old: - 4 Students
23 Yrs old: -1 Student
We had full camp attendance this time: 43 students attended, and we were 7 facilitators including 1 student who had just graduated from high school.
The theme of the camp was: “Youth Transformation Through Christ”.
The Key Scriptures portions were:
1 Thessalonians 5:23 (NIV)
“May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Romans 12:2 (NIV)
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
We planned the December camp to have an emphasis on “Christian Leadership”. This is because of the need to cultivate authentic Christian leadership qualities in the youth. This was a valuable change in the program for the students who had attended the previous CML camps. The last 3 days had 4 sessions on leadership: Basic Leadership Qualities, The Heart of a Leader, Vision and Leadership and Decision Making & Leadership. We borrowed mostly from John Maxwell’s materials on Leadership.
Elishah Otewa, a Form 4 graduate student of Kanyawanga Boys High School facilitated the session on Basic Leadership Qualities. We give such opportunities to students who have participated in previous CML Camps. With time we are able to observe the students and encourage them to exercise their emerging leadership qualities. Soon, we hope to post a video clip of Elishah facilitating this session.
The program catered for the students’ spiritual formation: There were sessions on basic Christian Foundations like Who is God?/ His Qualities and names, Who we are in Christ/ A Healthy Self Esteem, The Trichotomy of Man(Spirit, Soul and Body), Salvation, Justification and Sanctification.
Other sessions were: Media/Music, Moral Purity, Peer Pressure, Sexuality, Relationships and Drug & Substance Abuse. To emphasize the importance of good use of media, we showed three movies: The Gospel of John (on the 1st day), Mary Goretty and Hitch.
There were sessions for both indoor and outdoor games. Apart from physical exercise and social time, the games were aimed at emphasizing the importance of, and encouraging the students to embrace teamwork, trust in relationships, co-ordination, flexibility and respect for the leadership.
We also provided time for open question forum, one-on-one counseling, Praise and Worship, Workshop & Presentations, Talent Presentations and Riddles.
One of the remarkable additions into the December Camp Program was the Community Outreach/ Service. On Friday morning before lunch, we dedicated 5 hours of reaching out and serving in the surrounding community. This part of the program provides the students with the opportunity to practically witness the challenges and problems encountered by the people in the community, empathize with them and have a hands on experience in serving the needy in the society. They get to emulate Christ, who is our role model in Christian Leadership, by exercising some of the qualities they learned during the leadership sessions.
On this day we all visited Mama Benta at her home. The lady is a widow with 3 surviving children below the age of 10. Benta is handicapped in the left hand, and therefore unable to perform most of her domestic chores. She fellowships at Kitere Glory Community Church, one of the local churches that CML partners with in Community ministry. We divided ourselves in to small groups and helped Benta with any domestic work that was available.
The team assisted Benta with fetching water from the nearby stream, cleaning her house, washing the clothing, beating & sifting the beans, digging holes for planting bananas, started building the outdoor toilet, cleaning the compound and washing the kids. All this time Benta did not just sit down just because she had over 50 people helping her, she was working with us. We encouraged her and finally prayed with her. When all was done, Benta had only this to say at the end- “I have seen the hand of God”. Amen!
Bellow are some December 2008 Camp Attendance Statistical Data:
Gender:
Male Students: - 26 Students
Female Students: - 17 Students
Schools Represented:
Primary Schools: - 10
High Schools: - 11
Total: - 21
17 Schools within Rongo District
4 Schools outside Rongo District
First-time attendees: - 22 Students
Returning Students: - 21 Students
Grade Levels Represented:
Primary Class/Grade 5: - 2 Students
Primary Class/Grade 7: - 2 Students
Primary Class/Grade 8: - 5 Students
High School Form 1/Grade 9: - 5 Students
High School Form 2/Grade 10: - 4 Students
High School Form 3/Grade 11: - 14 Students
High School Form 4/Grade 12 - 5 Students
High School Form 4/ Grade 12 Graduates: - 6 Students
Age Distribution:
10 Yrs old: - 1 Student
13 Yrs old: - 4 Students
14 Yrs old: - 3 Students
15 Yrs old: - 3 Students
16 Yrs old: - 3 Students
17 Yrs old: - 8 Students
18 Yrs old: - 13 Students
19 Yrs old: - 3 Students
20 Yrs old: - 4 Students
23 Yrs old: -1 Student
We thank all the CML partners for their continued prayers and financial support that facilitated the success of this camp. Thanks also to the facilitators for their passion to work with the youth. All Glory belongs to God Almighty for all that He has accomplished through the CML Ministry.
May His will be done even in 2009 and beyond.
Amen.
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