Kenyan HIV/AIDS Statistics

In Kenya, about 15% of the population is infected with HIV/AIDS. Of a country of about 31 million people, it is estimated that there are over 1.2 million orphaned. The vast majority of orphans are the sad result of the HIV epidemic. The Friends of Mercy raises funds to build rescue centers, a place where orphans are nursed back to health, educated, and loved. Here are some statics about Kenya and HIV/AIDS. It is a culture where so many parents die by 30 yrs. old.


Kenyan AIDS Statistics (World Health Organization):

Total population: 36,553,000

Gross national income per capita (PPP international $): 1,300

Life expectancy at birth m/f (years): 52/55

Healthy life expectancy at birth m/f (years, 2003): 44/45

Probability of dying under five (per 1 000 live births): 121

Probability of dying between 15 and 60 years m/f (per 1 000 population): 432/404

Total expenditure on health per capita (Intl $, 2005): 96

Total expenditure on health as % of GDP (2005): 4.5

Figures are for 2006 unless indicated. Source: World Health Organzation

Can't Help Myself - RED WINGS WIN!!

For those of you who are hockey fans around the world, I just can't help myself to celebrate for a moment the Red Wings win last night. The funny thing is, it's hard to find a hockey rink in Kenya. :) I'm sure Pastor David Chuchu would enjoy hockey.

Why Yellow Corn is a Sign of Desperation

The next couple of years look desperate for the poor in Kenya. During the post-election violence (January 08), mobs destroyed the crops in Kenya’s “fertile crescent,” the Rift Valley, and farmers were forced to flee for their safety. This area of Kenya is the bread basket that provides Kenya’s food.

In a recent phone interview with Deaconess Lorna, she simply said, “They’re eating yellow corn in Kibera.” I mentioned this to a Lutheran Kenyan who lives in California. She immediately gasped and said, “Oh no, they’re desperate.”

To you and me the significance goes over our head. Kenyan corn is white. Yellow corn means that they are eating corn from the U.S. That means they are not able to proved for themselves and the corn they are eating is crisis aid from elsewhere. Therefore, yellow corn is about 3 times as much as the Kenyan white corn. Yellow corn is now 75 schillings per can, which is about $1.23. The average salary for a Kenyan is about $1 to $1.50 per day. The math is not very hopeful for the stomachs of the people of Kibera.

What is most worrisome is when you combine the sky-rocketing price of food and the fact that their crops were destroyed, many wonder if we will begin to see pictures of malnutrition and starvation coming out of Kenya. Food programs have begun, but there is so much to be done. It is our hope that we will continue to make a difference among the victims of AIDS, the children and the widows especially.

Read more here Kenyan Farmers Uprooted

Sibling Family: An Example of Lutherans Making A Difference in Kenya with Orphans

Mercy for AIDS Orphans in Kenya

(We withheld real names to protect the privacy of those mentioned.)

Meet June. June (right with brother on her back) is about 11 years old. She carried her brother on her back to the medical clinic at Springs of Life in Kibera slums. She was with a friend, Rose (left, holding the hand of a little girl), and after they signed up for the clinic and situated their siblings, June and Rose played together as little girls would. Then, when it was time to get down to business and see the doctor, she swung her brother onto her back and was acting like an older mother.

It was astonishing, yet sad, to see such a young girl switch roles so quickly. However, this is a common practice, called “sibling families,” wherein a child 11-16 years old will function as the parent to their younger brothers and sisters. These are the victims of the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Orphans, millions of them, in Kenya alone, are left to fend for themselves because their parents died of AIDS, often by the time they were thirty years old. Kenya is only an example of the suffering in sub-Saharan Africa from HIV/AIDS and poverty. A gruesome and deadly combination.

Uganda Video, No Different for Poor AIDS Orphans in Kenya

Be ready to have your heart broken. Although this was taken in Uganda, we have come across similar situations in Kenya. A new friend from California, Lanny Cordola, introduced us to the web site, San Damiano Foundation, a foundation that produces video to help the poor around the world. Thanks Lanny!

Keep us in your prayers and help us help them.

Uganda Film: Sam & Esther Scene

Meekers & Sell: Great Time with Lutherans Making a Difference in Kenya

Thanks to Everyone Who Hosted Us

What a trip it was. The Meekers arrived on April 12th. Deaconess Lorna left May 1st and Pastor Meeker's final preaching date was May 25th. In every stay, the local people provided us with places to sleep, eat, and relax a bit. There are so many people to thank, that I fear if I start listing them, I will miss too many. We visited with pastors, parish nurses, DCE's, teachers, elders, deacons, many laypeople, and others for about a total of 23 events. Meekers put about 9000 miles on their car and we flew around California for a week. Thanks especially to Cliff & Lori Lewis (above) who helped us line up visits in Southern California. Lori is a great organizer and Cliff and I had a great time talking physics on occasion, chaos theory. He told me my silly round hat that I wore on our trip to dinner one night was a sample of chaos. Hmmmm... still tyring to figure that one out. Oh ya, cliff is a physicist.


Sorry I Couldn't Keep Up the Travel Diary on the Blog

Once we got moving on our trip, several things came up unexpectedly (IA in the US?). Pastors Meeker and Sell both had deaths in their families. The more we traveled the busier we got. We added several more speaking engagements to our itinerary and when we had a few hours of down time here and there, we "rested our eyes," as my father used to call it.

Where's Deaconess Lorna?

"Where's Deaconess Lorna?"

"I thought she was going to be here?"

Those were comments Pastors Meeker and Sell heard often as they traveled during the second half of their trip.

IA - A Term We Learned from Parish Nurse Pam Boehle-Silva

"It's Africa."

For anyone who has traveled to more of a low-key country, you will snicker at this story. Many countries are not as fast paced as the U.S. Kenya is one of them. When we scheduled things in Kenya, the time of the appointment is more of a suggestion. Sometimes entire events will change at the last second without warning. Parish Nurse, Pam Boehle-Silva, (Holy Cross, Rocklin CA) told us of her trip to Kenya and how they finally began to respond to uncertainties with, "IA, It's Africa."

When Pastor Meeker and Deaconess Lorna flew to the states, they planned on being here, together, the entire time. We knew Deaconess Lorna needed to get back to Kenya to start classes the first week in June. The day before they left Kenya, she went to the school to double check that everything was ready to go when she got back.

Surprise! I.A. The administration told her everything was ready, but school was now going to start the first week of May instead of June. Pastor Meeker explained this and everyone was very gracious to understand that Deaconess Lorna needed to go home early. We made plans to get her home and fly her from St. Louis etc.

The first week in May arrives and Deaconess Lorna goes to school. She walks in to the class room and was told, "We had only 16 students and that wasn't enough for class. The school will start in September.

I.A. :)

In the Lord's hidden will, it was a fortunate event. As it turns out, Deaconess Lorna was needed by the people that she and pastor serve. For example, a young husband and wife, with 4 children of their own and caring for 5 orphans were living in a 10 sq. ft. home. Several of the children were sick. The wife/mother has AIDS, is suffering from breast cancer, and is undergoing chemo. Deaconess Lorna brought them some food and began to look for housing for several of the children. Too many under one roof. Too much sickness.

This is only one example of several situations wherein Deaconess Lorna was badly needed. In the end, maybe "I.A." is another way for us to pray, "Thy will be done."

Pastors Meeker and Sell Travel the US to Support Kenyan Lutherans and Mercy

Pastors Meeker and Sell traveled all over the U.S. in the last month and a half to raise awareness of the AIDS Epidemic and how it affects Lutherans in Kenya. Between the two pastors, they spoke in 5 states making about 23 presentations (IL, MI, OH, IN, IA, CA).

A portion of their presentation was to update people on the needs of the poverty stricken and disease infested Kibera Slums. Pastor Meeker serves Springs of Life Lutheran Church in Kibera and his wife serves as a deaconess in the ELCK.

So many people were made aware of the fact that many parents die by the time they are 30 and, in the words of ELCK's Bishop Walter Obare, "Every home is an unofficial orphanage." Every family works and contributes to care for the millions of orphans in Kenya.

Often in the states, once we get past the initial news blast of something "big," we tend to move on to the newest fad or disaster. However, this trip around the country reminded Lutherans that so many homes are in ashes, children are starving and dying of AIDS and widows are sick with many children to care for.

In Memoriam - John Mwaura

Last week I mentioned that Pastor Meeker's chairman of Springs of Life, Kibera entered the church triumphant. He passed away from a sudden heart attack. Here is a video clip of him the way most of us in the states remember him. He was so very helpful to the ministry at Kibera.

I'm sure many people who traveled to Kenya will remember these sorts of scenes.

Keeping Up With Kenyans - Meekers

Sorry I fell behind. I had an unexpected trip to Fort Wayne on Tuesday last week for family matters. I know there are those who have left messages and I will catch up.

Last Week

Thursday - Saturday 4-17,18,19

Pastor Meeker has an uncle in IL who has been suffering from a terminal illness. Unfortunately, he received a phone call from his family and suddenly had to leave Fort Wayne on Thursday. He kept vigil with the family throughout the weekend. We kept Pastor and Deaconess Meeker in our prayers.

Sunday 4-20

Pastor Meeker presented at Trinity Lutheran Church in Manito, IL. Trinity and her pastor (Dan Chambers,) pastor are a great example of the faithfulness of your typical LCMS congregation. Pastor chambers faithfully preaches law and gospel, the sacraments are practiced faithfully, and they blessed with an understanding of mission through acts of mercy. Trinity has donated well over $6000 to help the Meekers with their ministry in Kenya. Trinity has about 160 communicant members.

Monday 4-21

Monday morning, Pastor Meeker's uncle was still struggling and the family continued to pray, "Thy will be done." However, the Meekers went through what we all go through when we are in the midst of a death bed vigil. The opportunities to proclaim the gospel of Christ's life in our stead are numerous. It is in God's death in Jesus that we have life. The work of Christ in our life, through faith, makes our death our VICTORY!!

In a phone conversation Monday afternoon, Pastor Meeker told me that they continued to provide the Word of comfort and the heavenly gift of the Lord's Suffer of which his uncle partook. Heaven was near for his uncle. He left him in the Lord's hands and the Meekers then drove to Valparaiso, IN. There, they ministered to his chairman's widow again and attended John's memorial service. Together with his member, now widow, they listened to God's word as it was read by those at the service. Word of the Lord endures forever. Below is a clip of John assisting Pastor Meeker at Springs of Life just before they left for the states.



Tuesday 4-22

After the service, the Meekers drove to South Whitley, IN. They arrived late at night again.
They stayed with my mother-in-law. I arrived earlier in the afternoon.

Wednesday 4-23

The Meekers attended the call service at CTS Fort Wayne, where they celebrated with friends who received their first calls to congregations. Afterwards, they left for Monroe, MI.

Thursday 4-24

Dennis and Lorna visited with a faithful supporter of mission/mercy work in Kenya. Sadly, the supporter's wife is battling cancer. We keep them in our prayers as they continue the struggle. Pastor Meeker commented how this faithful couple trust in the work of our Lord to bring them mercy. In the midst of their suffering, they continue to pray for those who suffer in Kenya.

Friday 4-25, 26, 27

The Meekers traveled to Cleveland, OH. They renewed friendships with friends and churches who support their work. Pastor preached and presented on Sunday at St. John's Lutheran Church, Cleveland, OH.

Your Gifts at Work Bring Hospice and our Lutheran Kenyan Work Together

Easter Comfort & Victory for Saints - Death is Dead -

The grant we provided for this most-important palliative care seminar in partnership with Concordia Theological Seminary's Rev. Dr. Arthur Just was possible only because of your gifts. Thank you for supporting the work of Friends of Mercy and being an example of how “Lutherans are making a difference!”

It was our objective from the start to have our domestic and international work intersect exactly where Christ delivers the victory over sin, death, and the devil. His altar brings the gifts of eternity to us who suffer the consequences of sin in this world.

Furthermore, the work of mercy is fulfilled in its fullness at the glory we experience at the moment of death. It is where God gets into the face of Satan and death becomes the door to heavenly eternity rather than the door of eternal death. The tears of suffering in this world becomes the joy of heavenly celebration in the very same instance where the devil thinks he wins, but our Lord takes that cross of suffering and even death, and by faith in Christ’s work, makes it our very own Easter celebration.

The work of Lutheran Cancer & Hospice Society purposely intersects with the work of Friends of Mercy in Kenya in this manner. The work of hospice will affect the life of many people in our lives and the lives of the saints in Kenya where pastors, evangelists, and deaconesses will bring the comfort of forgiveness, the mercy of God, and the hope of the resurrection to those who are HIV positive.

Meekers Arrive Safely - Travel Begins with a Sad Visit

Friday Night Delays

After the usual long and tiring trip from Kenya, the Meekers arrived safely. They flew through London and endured a 5 hour delay there, another hour and a half on the runway, and were picked up at Chicago O'Hare by Pastor Meeker's brother, Mark.

Saturday Rest - The Church Triumphant Grows

Saturday, they relaxed with family, but learned that the chairman of the Springs of Life Lutheran Church died of a sudden heart attack. His name is John. He worked his way out of poverty and was very well respected in Kibera. His wife had come to the states to study at Valparaiso University and was to go home in December 07. However, after the election violence broke out, she was unable to fly to Nairobi. So, she was still in Valpo when she learned of her husband's death.

Sunday Visit with Widow

Pastor and Deaconess Lorna stopped in Valpo on the way to Fort Wayne to bring the message of comfort, forgiveness, and the resurrection to the widow. Thankfully, they were able to bring this message of God's grace to the mourning bride.

Pastor and Deaconess Lorna arrived in South Whitley (They are staying with me at my mother in law's home, just west of Fort Wayne.) About midnight, a car pulled up in front of the house and we greeted the Meekers at the door. Deaconess Lorna in her "deaconess blues" and Pastor in his clerical. The work of the Lord endures through His word brought to the suffering by His servants.

Monday - Taxes; CTS Deaconesses; Indianapolis

Up at 5:30 am and on the road. First, they dealt with one of those certain things in life - taxes - with a 7:30 a.m. appt. to the tax prepare.

On to the seminary in Fort Wayne. Pastor and Deaconess met with the deaconess students during a field education class, took questions, and shared with the group their work in Kenya.

Then, they left for Indy to meet with INS on Tuesday and return to Fort Wayne Tues. night.

Tuesday Night - Dinner at Dr. Just's Home

Check back regularly for updates on the Meekers' trip to the U.S.

Kenyan Lutheran Pastor and Deaconess Lorna - the Meekers in the U.S. to Speak all Over the Country

Pastor Meeker and Deaconess Lorna arrive from Kenya tonight (April 11) and will travel throughout the U.S. to speak to churches, bible studies, meet with pastors and church leaders. Pastor Sell will travel with them in Indiana and California. They will return to Kenya May 29th.

They will spend some time in Fort Wayne, IN, IL, MO, MI, OH, and CA. It will be a month and a half filled with meetings, visits, preaching, bible studies and meeting with supporters.

Friends of Mercy is honored to partner with the Meekers in thier work in the Kibera Slums and throughout Kenya with Deaconess Lorna's work with other Kenyan deaconesses.

The Meeker story is unique. They met at the seminary in Fort Wayne. Pastor Meeker was studying to become a pastor and Deaconess Lorna to become a deaconess.

The Meeker's work mostly in the Kibera Slums where over a million people live in a 6 sq. mi. area. Whereas the HIV/AIDS rate in Kenya is about 15%, social workers estimate that number skyrockets to 40% in the slums. Pastor is called to Springs of Life Lutheran Church in Kibera and hosts medical clinics, HIV/AIDS education for youth, a pre-school, and of course a faithful Lutheran church.

They are currently trying to re-build what was at the Kibera site after the post-presidential election riots in January. (see other blog articles here and here)

Check back to learn about their speaking schedule. We will finalize it next week.

If you would like to help the Meekers and their ministry in Kenya, please donate to Friends of Mercy. We partner with them to support the proclamation of the gospel and the work of mercy in Kenya.

$15,000 FoM Grant to Fund a Palliative Care Seminar for Kenya's Lutheran Deaconesses with Arthur Just (Lutheran Gifts Making a Difference!)

Friends of Mercy Announces a New Partnership with Concordia Theological Seminary, Fort Wayne

Last January (08), Pastor Sell made a presentation at St. Paul's in Fort Wayne. Dr. Just heard the presentation and asked Friends of Mercy if we could possibly provide a grant to have him and Parish Nurse, Pamela Boehle-Silva train Kenyan deaconess to serve those who are in need of palliative care (comfort for those in pain). Pamela serves at Holy Cross Lutheran Church in Rocklin, CA. Thankfully, we are in a position to make this happen. (Below, Dr. Just with ELCK deaconesses at 2006 seminar.)


Dr. Just and Parish Nurse to Train Kenyan Deaconesses

In June (08) Dr. Just and Parish Nurse Pamela will travel to Kenya to conduct a seminar at the Ogongo Deaconess College. Dr. Just said, "This seminar will engage them in the theological foundations for such care, along with the medical aspects of caring for those who are sick and dying, especially those who are suffering from HIV/AIDS."

The focus is the spiritual, emotional, physical, and end of life care. Friends of Mercy will fund the travel for all the Kenyan deaconesses to go to Ogongo, where ELCK's deaconess school is located. (Picture above right is the ELCK deaconess logo.) This would also be a time of fellowship for them, and an opportunity for them to engage our team in conversation about what it means to be a deaconess.
The highlight, as it is for all of our trips to Kenya, is to make home visits and attend gatherings of widows, orphans, and others who suffer from HIV/AIDS.

Back to Work - Blessings You Forget About - Medicine & AIDS in Kenya

Medicine in the States

A week ago I had carpal tunnel surgery. Many of you know what that is like. Until surgery, your fingers go numb, your hand aches, and pain shoots up your arm.

The surgery is simple. I was in the doctor's office for about 2 hours, which included pre-op, a 15 minute surgery, and an hour post op. I woke up in post-op and already the pain was gone, the fingers stopped tingling or going numb.

Before surgery, I couldn't even fill out my name and address on a form without taking a break because of numbness and pain. After surgery, that very night, I had no problems writing. The worse of it was the cut on the skin and 8 days later, that has completely subsided.

So it is back to work, so much of which is typing. It is so easy to forget how incredibly blessed we are in the states.

Medicine in Kenya

On the other hand, I couldn't stop recalling my experience when I assisted medical trips in Kenya with LCMS World Relief. Our trips often over-lap with them.

Hundreds of people lined up outside to see a doctor or nurse in a makeshift clinic. Last fall, over 800 people were cared for in a week and just about every day the volunteer staff closed registration at about 1pm because there were too many to care for.

For the most part, they waited for simple medicines that are very cheap and inexpensive here in the states. Anti-histamines, decongestants, malaria medicine (#1 killer in the world), HIV/AIDs testing, etc.

Kenyan doctors explain how operations are done with equipment cleaned in soap and water, surgery after surgery. There is no sterilization equipment. From surgery to water to the next surgery is how it works. Often, only a quick rinse of equipment is done. Hospital equipment is old and not very safe. This is in the good hospitals.

So, next time you go to the hospital, doctor, or have outpatient surgery, say a prayer of thanks-giving for the incredible wealth of medical services we have in the U.S. The medical community of Kenya hope and pray for the medical equipment we throw out on a monthly basis.

AIDS Widows and Orphans Experience Mercy through the ELCK - Kenya Building Rebuilding Homes and Cleaning - Order Restored

U.S. Relaxes Travel Limitations to Kenya

Thankfully, calm is the rule of the day in Kenya once again. Life is back to normal - as normal is in Africa. When you travel to Africa, you always must be "street-wise." I was raised in the city of Detroit and anytime you visit the city, you must engage your common sense. Just as our big cities are approached cautiously and wisely, so it is when Friends of Mercy travels to Kenya.

There are over 2.1 million people living with HIV/AIDS and the subsequent riots from the presidential elections did not stop the proclamation of the gospel and the work of mercy.

The ELCK (Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya) continues to work hard throughout Kenya as her leadership assists members and villages with cleaning up, re-building, and proclaiming the gospel. It looks like we will follow through with our Faith & Mercy Expeditions in June and again in September.

Kenyan Lutherans Keep Going - Concordia Theological Sem Carries Update from Meeker

Pastor Meeker (Springs of Life Lutheran, Kibera Kenya) filed an update to Concordia Theological Seminary (CTS). He graduated last spring from CTS. He was unable to receive a call through the LCMS missions to Kenya because of their internal policies. So, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya agreed to accept him into their ministerium so that he could serve the people whom he had grown to love while he served a vicarage in Kenya. His wife Lorna is from Kenya.

CTS does a wonderful job of training pastors and deaconesses who are mission and mercy minded. Pastors and deaconesses often serve around the world. Pastor's wife, Lorna also was trained in CTS' deaconess program. Read his update at CTS' admissions blog.

GOOD NEWS FROM KENYA! Recent agreement provides stability. Lutheran Ministry continues

Here is an interesting and exciting message about Kenya's financial/economic outlook.

MUMBAI, Mar. 10, 2008 (Thomson Financial delivered by Newstex) -- Standard & Poor's (NYSE:MHP) Ratings Services said it has revised the Republic of Kenya's long-term outlook to stable from negative, citing the likelihood that the recently agreed power-sharing agreement will continue to stem the tribal clashes...

As we've stated in the past, a healthy economy and order in the society is important for the proclamation of the gospel and continued ability to provide the mercy of Christ in the acts of love through the work we do.

The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Kenya marches on with their effort to provide hope and comfort for the lowly and suffering in Kenya.

Personally, I can't wait to get back to Kenya and see the work of Pastor Meeker, David Chuchu, Bishop Obare and so many of the pastors, evangelists, and deaconesses who work so hard, for so little worldly manna to bring the gospel and love of Christ to the people of Kenya.

Calm in Kenya - Meekers & Springs of Life Lutheran Rebuilding in Kibera

In a recent phone conversation with the Meekers, Pastor said that they were continuing with the clean up and began building a new fence around the property of the church. The property in Kibera is where Springs of Life Lutheran Church, the school, the medical clinic, and the parsonage are located.

The excitement was building as members of the congregation along with some contractors began to get the church fixed up. As the work progressed, it became a symbol of the calm that has returned to Kibera. The church members didn't give up. The bible studies are going again and the HIV support groups are organizing.

The stained glass windows above the altar were replaced and the roofing is going well.

The rebuilding of Springs of Life is because of people who are committed to making a difference through acts of mercy. Thanks to LCMS World Relief and supporters of Friends of Mercy, the progress will continue.

There is still much to be done. The picture to the left shows the stained glass window, the roofing progress, and the obvious work needed on the medical clinic. The medical clinic was at the back of the church which was renovated last year thanks to gifts from supporters such as St. John's Lutheran in Oxnard, California. Marilyn Gregory and Sandy Frandsen, members of St. John's, visited Kenya last October and were there to mark the dedication of the clinic.

St. John's has once again stepped up to the plate and has donated towards the rebuilding of Springs of Life. However, there are many others who have done the same. Thanks to so many faithful Lutherans in the United States, the work of proclaiming the Gospel and celebrating the sacraments will continue in Kibera.

US State Dept on the Kenyan Agreement - Now Lutherans Will Move Forward

Here is the statement from Condoleezza Rice on the the recent Kenyan agreement.

This is truly a blessing to the work of mercy in Kenya and in Africa generally speaking. As was recently reported in the media, it would have been a tragedy if Kenya went the way of Somalia. Turmoil and chaos always creates opportunities for thugs and terrorists to find a home. Kenya will continue to be a stronghold and a light for the furtherance of democracy and stability in Africa.

This story here, is why Kenya is so important for the proclamation of the gospel and the acts of mercy. An orderly and peaceful Kenya will make it possible for Friends of Mercy and others to move around safely and support the local altars in Kenya, such as Springs of Life Lutheran Church in Kibera.

Thanks Be to God for Kenyan Agreement

Last week, the deal was struck between the two Kenyan presidential candidates. From an article in Nation Media,

British Prime Minister Gordon Brown noted that the power-sharing deal was a “triumph for peace and diplomacy.”

Most people who support work in Kenya believe that things will get back to normal now with this important agreement.

Kenya is a good example of how our Lord uses the two "spheres" or kingdoms to implement His will on earth. The civil realm creates order (Romans 13:1-7) so that the spiritual realm, the church, can proclaim law and gospel and offer the sacraments.

Condaleeza Rice's Visit - Kenya's Stability is Key to Calm on the Continent, It's the Line in the Sand

This past week was a watershed event in the talks between opposing presidential candidates that will lead to civility in Kenya. Agreements were just about complete on Friday and Monday should see them finalized.

What most people don't realize is that Kenya is the line in the sand for many different reasons, including the war on terrorism. This article is a must read to understand the picture of the continent and Ms. Rice's work of diplomacy.

"The third issue was based purely on Washington’s concern over international terrorism. It is understood Dr Rice told the two sides that the US believed that should political instability take hold in Kenya, then terrorism would have found a new home."

Read the entire article: Revealed: Secrets of Talks with Rice

Kenyan Lutherans Hopeful - Bush Supports Powersharing

About a week ago, I reported that things were moving in the right direction in Kenya to restore order to the country. Political leaders and international negotiators jumped major hurdles over the last couple of weeks.

In a phone interview with Pastor Meeker yesterday, he said, "Yes, things have settled down quite a bit. The key is to get the agreement to work. In spite of the trouble in Kibera over the weekend, things are pretty good. Most people in my congregation returned to their homes and are rebuilding, so there is plenty of hope."

Reuters Chronology

This is a big step forward. Of course, the implementation of the plan will make the difference. For a simple chronology of the events to reconcilliation see this well done article from Reuters ,

CHRONOLOGY-Kenya in crisis after disputed elections

Springs of Life Lutheran Opens School in Basement of Church

It was only a couple of weeks after the turmoil began that Springs of Life re-opened their school in the basement of the church. (Right) It started with a handful of students and a couple of teachers. As time went on, more students began showing up again. Even the older students. Education is the key to improving Kenya's problem with poverty and disease.

The blackboard was still usable and the children were excited to get back to work. They used pews from the church as tables. The pictures in this post are from a 2 weeks ago and the children are continuing to return to school according to Pastor Meeker (I spoke with him over the weekend, as I usually do).

The picture above shows the children on chairs that they salvaged from the fire in the pre-school.

As you can see (Above), the older children and the younger children are in what is now a one room school. It reminds me of our Lutheran schools in the states that still have a one or two room school, especially in rural areas.

As the members of Springs of Life continue to pull their lives back together, it is such a blessing to see the normalcy of daily life again.

As is always the case (Romans 5:1-5) our Lord uses the hard times of life to strengthen our faith, our trust in His mercy He grants,

More than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us.

The Lord continues to look graciously upon His people through the word and the sacramental life. So, baptisms continue. The Lord's Supper continues. Acts of love and mercy continues from other faithful people around the world. Thanks be to God.

Pastor and Deaconess Meeker Helping More AIDS Orphans

Kawangware Slums - Lutheran School and Orphanage Need Help For Displaced Families and Orphans

Acts of mercy by Pr. and Dcns. Meeker (below, on the right) reach out to families in need. In a phone interview with them this afternoon, Pr. Meeker was updating me about the civil conditions in Kenya when he began to tell me about how his church, Springs of Life, others from the ELCK are also trying to help the people of the Kawangware slum.

This school and orphanage was one of the many our mercy partners from St. John's, Rochester, MI visited last October. Kawangware is in the Nairobi area as is Kibera.

Meekers have once again reached out personally to show christ's love to the AIDS orphans. Pr. Meeker explained how he and Dcns. Lorna had to step up and provide care for and find homes for 6 of the young children whose parents are notable to care for them. Several of the children are ill with AIDs.

The Meekers have taken a child themselves into their home, Veronica (above and below right). They fear Veronica is "sick." They patiently await the results from the HIV test to learn if this is "sick" or just sick. When they speak of "sick," they mean that the HIV virus has blown up into AIDS.

As you know from previous posts, the Meekers are supported by the ELCK

by allowing them to live in the GuestHouse in Nairobi. However, their financial support is based upon gifts from friends in the U.S. Now, they are looking for financial help for the six children they recently agreed to support.

There are so many children who need help. It could easily get you down. The daily constant flow into your life of hurt, pain, sickness, and death would push many of us out of Kenya as soon as we had a chance to leave. However, Pr. Meeker and his wife are committed to serve where the Lord placed them.

Please keep them in your prayers along with all of the churchworkers of the ELCK. There are about 64 deaconnesses throughout the country who are doing the same thing as Dcns. Lorna. There many more pastors and evangelists who are working to proclaim the gospel and care for the sheep the Lord gave to them.

Please consider helping. Donate to Friends of Mercy and support the work we do to help AIDS Widows, AIDS Orphans, and the church workers of the ELCK.

Online donations accepted or send a check to (made out to Friends of Mercy),

Please keep them in your prayers along with all of the churchworkers of the ELCK. There are about 64 deaconnesses throughout the country who are doing the same thing as Dcns. Lorna. There many more pastors and evangelists who are working to proclaim the gospel and care for the sheep the Lord gave to them.

Please consider helping. Donate to Friends of Mercy and support the work we do to help AIDS Widows, AIDS Orphans, and the church workers of the ELCK.

Online donations accepted or send a check to (made out to Friends of Mercy),

Friends of Mercy
546 Stoddards Mill Drive
Ballwin MO 63011Ballwin MO 63011

Your gifts are 100% tax deductable.

Friends of Mercy - Our Work Goes On - Lutheran Deaconesses in Kenya and HIV Communities

Rightfully so, the recent focus in Kenya was the political unrest after the presidential elections. However, the work of mercy goes on. Friends of Mercy didn't stop raising awareness on the various projects in Kenya or Lutheran Cancer & Hospice Society.

Lutherans are Making a Difference - Lutheran HIV Communities in Kenya the Result of Hard Working ELCK and her Deaconesses

(Deaconess Eunita speaking to the community) Lutheran deaconesses are making a huge difference for those suffering from AIDS and children that are infected with HIV. The ELCK is on the front edge of helping the battle against HIV\AIDS.

Pastors are rarely paid in Kenya - Evangelists are next to get paid - deaconess are third in line. The church workers in Kenya are there because of their love of the Lord, love of neighbor, and a zeal to make a difference with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.

The deaconesses are instrumental to the Lutheran HIV Communities that exist in Kenya. One of their slogans is "Living Positively." What they mean by that is the members of the community are HIV positive - all of them. Great grandparents, grandparents, parents, orphans, children, babies - are all infected with HIV and are working to stop its spread.

However, the power of the Gospel provides the hope and strength to live a positive life. The ELCK works hard to present an open, forgiving, and compassionate context for the people of Kenya to deal with HIV\AIDS. When you meet with the people of the Lutheran HIV Community you can hear, feel, and see how postive they are.

These communities, in a way, encompass everything we are trying to do at Friends of Mercy. They deal with AIDS Orphans, AIDS widows, education, micro-economies, and issues associated with the terminally ill.

"Teach them to Fish Rather than Give ..."

The old phrase, "teach them to fish instead of give them a fish" is literally applied among the ELCK's Lutheran HIV Communities. Above is a picture of the ladies of the community digging another pond to raise tilapia.

At the left is one of the several "tilapia farms," which the HIV community built and now raises fish to feed the community and sell in the market. It is part of a productive philosophy of a setting up micro-economies to sustain themselves and their communities.

In addition to fish, they raise chickens and vegetables. They are so very proud of their work and their positive approach to life in the face of HIV and poverty. No longer are they outcasts and shunned, especially by the church. They are baptized saints, holy and pure by faith in Christ.

Then next couple of posts will show you the work of over 60 deaconesses in Kenya. During our trip, we met a few deaconesses personally, however, please understand, their work is multiplied throughout the country.

Optimism from the U.S. State Dept. - Still a lot of Work

The Political Crisis in Kenya: A Call for Justice and Peaceful Resolution

The State Department released a report on Feb. 6 about the state of affairs in Kenya. If you are interested in a good summary, which reads like a bureaucratic paper that it is, this relatively short, but boring article is a must read.
Although I don't write much about the geo-political significance of Kenya very often, I do include it in my presentations. Read carefully how the U.S. views the importance of Kenya not only for the continent of Africa, but for the general stability around the world,

"The United States has long had a close and productive relationship with Kenya, and we value this partnership highly. Our core interests in Kenya include promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance; supporting Kenya’s economic development; maintaining its role as a stable partner and contributor to peace and security; and expanding regional counterterrorism cooperation. Kenya functions as a regional platform for U.S. programs elsewhere in the region (for example, it hosts USAID’s regional program in East and Central Africa, which covers 16 countries). Food aid for seven other countries transits Kenya. It is also a regional center for trade, investment, and tourism."

Kenya is somewhat a line in the sand for stability and the importance of the gospel on the continent.

Their optimism is well ballanced with the reality of the circumstances.

"As we observe the Annan negotiations unfold and remain optimistic that they will bear fruit, we are also looking at a range of options to pressure individuals, particularly those who incite or support violence, as well as those who might prove obstructive to the negotiations. The decision to act will depend on events on the ground and how certain key individuals contribute or fail to contribute to devising a political solution to the crisis. The negotiations remain an African-led effort, but with strong U.S. support and leadership in the international community. We continue to work closely with our partners in the international community, including the UK, EU, and individual EU member states, to support Annan’s efforts and to consult on the way forward."

More Word on Kibera and Lutheran Church Normalizing

I'm not trying to be foolishly optimistic. Yes, Friends of Mercy is still planning our Faith & Mercy Expeditions in 2008 to Kenya. However, we are being very cautious and will rely on reports from those who live in Kenya, some of LCMS Mission people and LCMS WR people. We will communicate with other RSO's in Nairobi and pastors in the field.



Sell: "I want to watch my kids grow up and spoil my future grandchildren too."



We might have to postpone or reschedule some of our Expeditions. As I've said to those who are currently scheduled to go to Kenya with us, I start with the fact that, "I want to watch my kids grow up and spoil my future grandchildren too."



In other words, we are not at all taking this lightly. However, I do think it appears that the political leaders are slowly getting over the hump of the worse of it.



Kenya: Strategic highway to west reopens



For example, here is an article about how commerce is moving again and the roads to Western Kenya are open. This is crucial to the livelihood not only of western Kenya, but also for the land locked countries bordering Kenya, such as Ethiopia.

Nairobi Getting Back to Normal - Pr. Meeker and the Gospel Presses On

When is Gridlock a Good Thing?


It is exciting is to begin to read reports coming out of Kenya that things are getting back to normal, slowly, but surely. (News: Displaced people to be taken back to ancestral land.) The children are getting back to school and businesses are opening up again.

(Above: Springs of Life preschool meeting in church basement.)

Nairobi sounds like it is returning to its grid-locked traffic and residents in Kibera move forward with life and begin to rebuild. Still, others return to their land around the country. The ban on broadcasting live protest action on TV was lifted by the government.

As is common, the news media has a philosophy of "if it bleeds, it leads." Kenya is not in turmoil throughout the country. It has hot spots, but the calm outweighs the riots.

As a "blue collar" kid from Detroit, I learned young the importance of being street-wise. When I travelled into certain parts of the city with my friends, I had to be smart and know when and where to go at what time. I suppose you can get a taste of what I'm talking about in this article that talks about the middle class and the unrest (Reuters Africa.) The violence is isolated in various areas of the country. The tourist resorts are safe and far removed from the trouble.

The White House reports (Reuters Africa) that there is progress in the talks, but there is a long way to go. However, the best news is that the opposing parties "begin detailed negotiations" today. As one person put it, the protests used to attract thousands, now they are attracting hundreds and a couple of gas canisters will disburse the crowd.

For the most part, it appears that the struggles and political unrest is closely related to the tribal nature of the country. (Just "google" Kenya politics and read report after report on the topic.) The political leaders of the tribes are those involved in the presidential elections. So, when they decide to agree on a plan to settle the political/tribal battles, they will end quickly.

It is not our mission to deal with the politics, so I won't get into the details. However, it is very clear that the people of Kenya have had enough. They want their political leaders to get it together and move forward.

Kenya has too much to lose. It is the shining star of the continent. It has a vibrant economy and is a stable and orderly community.

In the big picture, I hope and pray that the unrest becomes a blip in Kenya's short, 44 year history. The 43 plus different tribes will move forward in learning how to be proud of their tribal heritage, yet, as a country, grasp the strength and unity of being Kenyans, working together for the good of its citiizens, their families, and their tribes.

The Role of the Church in Restoring Order

The church will play a large role in bringing people together. It won't be an obvious miracle, rather, it will take place through the daily vocation, or calling of each Christian.

To love one's neighbor is the daily worship of a Christian. For those of us in the church work, the most important thing to do is to continue to be church. Our pastors must continue faithfully to preach the Law and Gospel and honorably administer the sacramental life. Where possible and appropriate, the church will help the members of their congregations to facilitate the daily acts of love and mercy by providing food and clothing, help relocate the new "refugees."

The people will see the acts of mercy and in turn the love they see will provide the opportunity to bring sin and grace to light. The context of acts of mercy provide a great opportunity to speak of the grace and forgiveness for the obvious sinful world in which we live. The church will always accept the penitent sinner. There is always a home for the homeless, the body of Christ for those whose bodies are riddled with AIDS, The Heavenly Father for the fatherless, and the baptismal adoption into the family of Christ for the orphaned. This is how faith & mercy go hand in hand.

Pastor Meeker and so many other members of the ELCK are doing just that. They persevere in the care of souls with the healing balm of the Gospel, and bring mercy to their communities through their acts of mercy. The food, the clothing, the hope, and the medicine they provide are exactly how God makes His presence among His people known for the love of neighbor.





At the same time, forgiveness comes through the word and the sacramental life, the very place where Christ promised to be there until the end of the ages for the sake of the proclamation of forgiveness and eternal life in the church.

Pr. Meeker and Springs of Life Lutheran - Find Home for Widow and Church Worker in Kibera Kenya

Pictured above is Rebbecca Muthoni in front of wrecked homes. Rebbecca is a widow. She has two young children. Springs of Life Lutheran Church set out to help this faithful Lutheran rebuild her home in Kibera. Like so many others in Kibera, gangs of youth forced her out of her home amidst the violence, only to return to see a pile of ashes.

The mercy of God is extended from the altar to the home. Springs of Life organized some members to rebuild her home (above). They bought the wood, cleaned up the site, and begun placing the posts. things were looking up for Rebbecca.

Shortly after this hopeful beginning, a group of thugs threatened her life. They forced her from her new dwelling and now she is without a home. The thugs, too often described as political protesters, now reside in her home.

Rebbecca lived there her entire life. She invested her entire life, work, and spirit to her children and home. Sadly, Rebbecca also lost her job at the same time. Rebbecca was a cook at the Lutheran preschool and it too, along with the church, parsonage, and medical clinic were torched by the mobs.

In Kenya, the families of school children must pay "school fees." Rebecca's fees are due soon. Pr. Meeker is working to locate another place for her to stay. He is also hoping to help her and many others during this time of trial, tribulation, and uncertainty.

However, as faithful Lutherans, they know that Christ will provide through the love and mercy of the Church. What is certain is their hope in Christ, the mercy only He gives unto eternity.

Our U.S. dollar goes a long way in Kenya. Please consider a donation to Friends of Mercy as we work to support the widows and orphans through the altar of the Springs of Life Lutheran Church, as well as all over Kenya.

Lutherans are making a difference!

Pr. Meeker and his congregation are making a difference. Rebbecca is making a difference by getting her children to school and cooking for all of the other children.

You, too, can make a difference.