Homeless No More

December 20, 2017

Homeless no more … someday

Homelessness always seems sad to me. Morris and I declare emphatically “our home is our refuge.”  A warm space where being yourself is just fine.  A table that welcomes you, a comfy couch to rest, a habitat to play games, watch TV, read or just chat. It’s a corner of the world where people matter above all.  It’s private, inviting, and smells good. How many times have we been travelling, only to return with “It’s so good to be home!”

To have no home seems unfair. Unjust.  Unsettling. It’s often baffled me that Jesus began his life as homeless. There was no room in the inn. No place for a mother to comfortably bear her first born baby. Not even one room. It was a barn.  A home for animals, not humans.  A cow’s feeding trough instead of a basinet cradled the infant.  I think of the birth of our second grand child this year.  Erica and Jeff chose a home birth.  In the cosiness of their bedroom with the sweetness of familiar surroundings, Oliver arrived late one April evening.  Snuggled up in the next room was big sister, Anna-Lynne.  It was wonderful for them - pretty perfect. What a contrast to our Saviour’s birth.

If we believe that God planned for the incarnation of His Son, undoubtedly he prearranged every detail. What did God have in mind when he sent His greatest gift to the world in such conditions? David Jeremiah in his book, Why the Nativity, ponders it too.   “If God could mobilize a star from a distant galaxy to invite wise men from the East, couldn’t he make one humble room available?” For some reason, God designed a form of homelessness for Jesus, beginning with his birth.  The delivery room was a seedy shed and, not long after, his parents were forced to take Jesus on the road, escaping the tyranny of King Herod. They became refugees. Home would not come easily for the son of God.

This was just the beginning. Follow his story, and it was perpetual for Christ.  At the age of 12, Mary and Joseph took him to Jerusalem during the Passover. Instead of returning home with his family, Jesus wandered off.  This time the Temple, not a house, was his comfort place. Later, when people were eager to follow Jesus, he made no promise of domestic security should they choose to be on his team. Luke 9:58 “Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.” Would homelessness be one of the costs for these new followers? It’s a bit of a mystery. 

I wonder. Is it God’s intention that one of our greatest comforts, home, is something we should not cling so tightly to that we forget those who are without it? Are Christians meant to intentionally associate and empathize with those who are displaced, those who drift without a roof to call their own? I think of our boys program adjacent to THQ, young men whose life’s circumstances have resulted in them living on the streets.  Last week we celebrated that four of the boys would make it to high school this year because of the investment the Salvation Army has made in them. Five days a week they trek to the house next door to receive academic instruction and a small meal. It isn’t providing a permanent dwelling, but it is helping.

Since living in Kenya, I have seen many homes that are far from luxurious, poles apart from the average North American dwelling.  It is essential that everyone secures a home lot, including space for growing food and a resting ground for your remains when you die.  It is their guarantee of somewhere to retire and a plot for burial. Some houses have mud floors. A large number have outdoor toilets. Many have no electricity. Almost all have a mobile kitchen, cooking outside on an open fire. But these homes are just as important as any Canadian bungalow.  And people take pride in them. One of the few similarities at Christmas time here is that on Christmas Day, families gather to feast together. Not turkey though – it’s chicken, goat, or a cow.

There is no question.  A home is a good thing. And while Jesus was born homeless and lived an itinerant life, one of the exciting promises is when the end of time comes and all of creation is fully reconciled, there will be a home for everyone!  John 14:2 “In my Father’s house are many rooms … I am going there to prepare a place for you.”  Space for all!  When God’s Kingdom is complete, not only will there be ‘no more sickness, no more pain, no more crying’ and not only will all the streets be paved, but finally homelessness will be no more.

Happy Christmas everyone!

Let's celebrate - Christmas and school!

Four boys are off to high school …

Christmas Questions

Christmas and some gnawing questions

Advent and Christmas 2017 takes a twist for us.  For years, our calendar filled up with familiar seasonal activities, outreach to needy families, personal preparations, and always wondering if we will have snow on December 25. While stationed at Grand Falls Citadel about ten years ago, the meaning of Advent especially deepened for us during our Sunday morning worship times. The message?  Christ, light of the world, remains unshakable as we learn to ‘wait’ for God to fulfill His promise. Here in Kenya, observing Advent is not a particularly common practice, so we introduced it to our THQ family. We’ve made a wreath from an old Christmas tree and found some candles to use.  In a country where uncertainty is always just below the surface, it was appropriate to begin our reflections with the candle of HOPE.  

At home, we placed our miniature tree and modest decorations (less is more!) in the corner of our living room while sipping a cold beverage in shorts & t-shirts (a first). Our special ornaments still reflect what we value most – family and friends and the handmade wooden Nativity set (a gift from Sherman & Dona Stryde) points to what’s important.  We confess we are still adapting to the absence of planning and enjoying our family gatherings this month– though grateful we had Christmas Day in October! J And happy that Don and Denise are coming on Dec. 23.

Last week, I reached for one of my favourite Christmas books by Stormie Ormartian. The short chapters echo how God fulfilled his Genesis promise to provide a Saviour for fallen humanity.  As I read again what happened to Zechariah, I began to stir a little and in the midst of all I know to be true, some gnawing questions caused me to wonder …

Biblical text: Luke 1

Why does it sometimes look like God treats people differently?  I know He doesn’t but the appearance occasionally surfaces. Why was Zechariah punished when he doubted and questioned God but Mary wasn’t?  When an angel told Zechariah that Elizabeth would bear a child (the forerunner to Jesus), he was afraid (‘gripped with fear’) and asked: “how can my wife possibly become pregnant when she has been barren for years and is now very old?” Logical inquiry. When the angel emerged later to Mary announcing her pending conception, she also responded with fear and unbelief.  “How can I conceive when I am a virgin?” Yet, Zechariah was given a silent tongue for the whole of his wife’s pregnancy - more than a little embarrassing if you ask me. He was a priest and speaking was essential, wasn’t it? At the same time, Mary’s doubting was left as it was. I know it wouldn’t be easy for Mary to face her situation and her community. She would be ridiculed and potentially ostracized.  No doubt that was more than enough to contend with, but why the consequences for Zechariah?

What did the priest do to deserve this? Simply question God? In character, Zechariah is an upright, faithful man, even blameless. So why this? Is the whole conversation not recorded? Did his bewildering escalate into a further argument? Was God really punishing him for some sin? One scholar suggests Zehchariah’s question was one of needless doubt when he should have truly believed, but Mary’s question was simply childlike faith with a normal query “how can this be”?  

Does it really matter though? Was God expecting a better response from a mature spiritual man than from an innocent, naïve young girl?  

Perhaps we will never know the answer to our Christmas questions, like other mysteries about God. So ... is it more a matter of truth?  Bottom line - we do not always understand why certain things happen to some people and not to others. The questions continue.

Why does the ‘permissive’ will of God allow tough things to occur without some reasonable rationale?  I remember something that happened in our family a long time ago.  One of my first cousins, a young man in his early 20’s, was murdered. His parents, my aunt and uncle, were (and still are), godly Christian people. Surely they must have asked: why Lord? I don’t know if the answer ever came.

To consider God punishing Zechariah for some character flaw seems highly unlikely and uncharacteristic of God’s nature. Perhaps the better question is: how did Zechariah eventually respond? Jerk reactions seldom reveal our truest self. When we stay with the story, both Zechariah and Mary accept what God revealed to them. They were humbled and trusted God for what they did not understand. 

We will not always reason out our circumstances or find a cause for what God gives to us. It is unlikely we will ever explain why ‘bad things happen to good people’ or why some situations seem unwarranted, unjust, or just plain tough in the moment and we wish it were different. It’s true in the face of enormous global injustice and it can be true in the privacy of our own context. Perhaps the only invitation God gives us is one of deep trust. Trust in His unchanging good nature, His sovereignty to see what we cannot. And His promise that one day all things (public and private) which seem unequal and unfair will be reconciled in a better way. 

God came into the world. “He took on flesh and moved into our neighborhood.” (John 1:12, The Message). He is one with us – in every situation of life. He is not always understood. He is always good.

Ordination and Commissioning Nov. 26.17

Kenya West Commissioning and Ordination of the Joyful Intercessors

One June 25, 1994, Morris and I accepted the declaration to be ordained for sacred service and commissioned for spiritual leadership within The Salvation Army. A vocation of sharing the love of Jesus, helping meet human need, and supporting the Army’s mission in whatever way possible began. It has never failed to amaze me how God chooses ‘the weak things (people) of the world’ to do His eternal business.

This weekend we witnessed 33 others receiving this same charge – to go and be part of what God is doing in the world. To join the fight and stand for what is right, to intercede for others and help make this world the place God intended it to be. To be, as Greg Morgan and Lynette Edge so precisely label it, missional Salvationists.  Now don’t misunderstand me, you do not have to be an ordained Salvation Army officer to fulfill this mandate. We affirm the ‘priesthood of all believers’. The body of Christ is just that – a body, with many parts serving many functions in order for the body to be a healthy, growing organism. There is, however, a specific place for those who feel called and set apart by God to be engaged in full time ministry and that’s what this weekend was about.

It began on Tuesday with Covenant Day. If you are a Facebook friend, you will have seen the picture of the second year Cadets kneeling to sign their Covenant, their bond of commitment to “live to win souls and make their salvation the first priority of their lives”. It was a truly sacred day with meaningful worship and a strong Biblical challenge. It was quite moving to watch these Cadets pray earnestly over the decision they were sealing. (The decision had begun more than two years ago).  The Cadets were fully aware that becoming an Officer in this Territory may present significant personal challenges. The majority of officers do not receive their full salary. If they have children, there is no guarantee they will be able to pay school fees or medical bills. Many serve in remote areas. Travel can be difficult, especially in the rainy season. Many live in semi-permanent homes with no electricity or plumbing.  While this is true for many other locals, it still doesn’t make it easy to engage in spiritual leadership in these circumstances. Yet, they willfully sign the Covenant. That was Tuesday.

On Saturday, we gathered back at the Training College for the honoring of family support, culminating in the presentation of the Order of the Silver Star to parents or other mentors who have provided spiritual and moral support.  The Cadets walked proudly across the grassy field, hand in hand with the two people they had chosen to receive the Silver Star. I thoroughly enjoyed being part of attaching the small pins to the lapels of those who stood side by side with their children. The smile of ‘holy pride’ beamed across their faces and I just knew it was a very special moment. In my heart I reminisced about the day my mother received her pin. I can still see her smile.

Then finally, it was Sunday and the great day had arrived. The Cadets had been in Kakamega very late the night before preparing the University grounds for the momentous occasion. Tents, flags, yellow, red and blue drapery, flowers, staging, and the red carpet were all in place.  Hundreds of Salvationists had come from across the Territory to witness the special ceremony. We were privileged to have Commissioners John and Dorita Wainwright from International Headquarters to join us. Morris and I accompanied the Wainwrights and our Territorial leaders, Commissioners Stephen and Grace Chepkurui, as we stood for the march pass led by the Territorial Band and Songsters. The service began with the first half focusing on the Ordination and Commissioning. The Cadets were introduced one by one as they walked and waved across the large grassy field, obviously very excited about the day!  It wasn’t long before the College Principal presented them as a session to the TC, followed by their Affirmation of Faith which Morris was privileged to lead, and then commissioning.  The ritual was one of reverence as the Cadets knelt to hear the words “I ordain you as a minister of the gospel of Christ and commission you a Salvation Army officer”.  Following the ordination, Commissioner John Wainwright shared a challenge from Matthew 14. Taking the story of Jesus feeding the 5000, he reminded everyone how disciples who follow Jesus understand the needs of the crowd and do something about it. It is a call to stand in the gap for others. To not only intercede in prayer but to engage in meeting the needs of human suffering. The best way to do this is in partnership with Jesus and a reliance on God’s abundance grace and power. Following the message, the Territorial Candidates Secretary gave an appeal to the congregation for others to consider the call of God to ministry and service. Many responded and we prayed for them.

This led us to the second part of the service and the march-in of the new Lieutenants to receive their first appointments. Though the march was a little slower than what I anticipated, it was an exciting moment to watch them approach the TC and discover where in the Territory they would begin their ministry. Many of the Divisional and District leaders were shouting their welcomes to their respective areas. It was finally complete and an eager crowd was ready to greet the newest officers of the Salvation Army world!

After a very long service (nearly five hours), we returned to THQ for a late lunch. As we concluded our meal, the final ‘Hooray’ of the day was to see the new Officers wheeling out their brand new modes of transportation – shiny new bikes! Many thanks go out to the Territories around the world who provide much needed support through this type of practical assistance.

God bless the Joyful Intercessors!!

A few pics to mark the activities.

Tuesday's Silver Star ceremony

Cadets affirm their faith and recite the 11 SA doctrines 

Cadets kneel to be ordained 

And stand to be affirmed by the TC. 

New Officers march in and salute the TC

Great Sessional Moment!

Others responding to the call - much needed. 

And off they go - on their new bikes! 

The Earth Rises

Nov. 15.17

The earth rises again

“Lord of wondrous patience, the earth has risen again, emerging from a darkness in a way it has never quite been before; whirling to a fresh time, an unused space; alive with trembling possibilities, and I with it! Such staggering grace.” (Ted Loder, Guerillas of Grace)

Why do we say ‘sunset’ and ‘sunrise’ when the sun is stationary?  Ted Loder imagines a new day as the earth rising. And why not? It is, after all, the earth that moves (rotates) around the sun.  Perhaps the phraseology isn’t worth a debate.  The miracle is, as Ted captures in his prayer, every 24 hours we have ‘fresh time, an unused space’ and ‘trembling possibilities’.

Sitting quietly in my living room with my first cup of tea, I glimpse the evidence of the fresh time before me.  The earth has tilted just enough for me to see the sun as I contemplate Loder’s prayer.  Choices lay bare before me. How will I use the ‘unused space’ of the day? Would it make any difference? Would the challenges paralyze or motivate the ‘trembling possibilities’ that are mine?

One of the tasks that sometimes least excite me in an administrative role is reading reports.  Four times a year I read through ten reports from each of the 26 Divisions/Districts.  Sometimes, I confess, it’s a little mundane and I would rather be out of my office connecting with people, hearing stories, or planning strategies with a team. But the reports do paint pictures.  Like the Women’s group who moved ‘out of their box’ because not many people were coming to their program. Instead of despairing, they go out into the community to join another group - the WORTH program. Here they mingle with women from various situations who've gathered for some table banking and education opportunities. The women joined the others just to connect, chat, and pray together.  A new possibility lay bare.

In another area, ladies are washing the house of an elderly woman in the community just because there was a need.  Good use of their fresh time that day. Then I learn how some Community Care members assist in constructing a new dwelling for a family who lost their home to a fire. I wondered if it was related to the news we heard a couple months ago.  A man had his boda-boda (motorcycle) allegedly stolen. An escalated response to the crime ended in 26 houses being burned.  Could this have been one of them?

Last weekend Morris and I found ourselves in Turkana. Our second visit to the northern region where weather conditions can be extreme, often creating an inhospitable environment.  During our February trip, the sweltering heat and lack of rain had caused intense drought wreaking havoc for people and livestock.  This month, extensive flooding, happening about once every five years, destroyed several homes with about 200 families displaced. The heavy rains also damaged roads.  The churches were vacant on Sunday because transport was too difficult. We saw some of the affects as we drove around the town.  During our stay, we traveled from the region’s main city, Lodwar, to the rural town of Kalokol to visit one of the corp. The seventy kilometer trip took us two hours. No traffic delays – we passed about a dozen vehicles on the way – but the Land Rover meandered slowly due to the conditions of the terrain, making it easier (and a little fun) to do some off-roading. This road is always quite rough but worsened now with parts of it washed away in sections.

Reaching the corps, we could hear singing and see dancing inside the building. The Salvationists (many children) welcomed us warmly and we were happy to share some greetings with them.  Before having lunch at the quarters, we drove to the outskirts of the town to see Lake Turkana, the world's largest desert lake (about 250 km long) that reaches into Ethiopia. The shoreline was very muddy and without rubber boots to wade through all the puddles, we were deterred from reaching the edge of the lake.  We were fascinated by several boat builders near the lake, taking pride in their hand crafted vessels and mending their nets, indicating the fishing business still held possibilities. We spoke of another seaside where fishermen were mending nets. The Sea of Galilee, not unlike this lake, was the place Jesus envisioned ‘trembling possibilities’ of another kind for those who would follow Him and become fishers of men. While we reminisced, an eager little boy approached us with a handful of very small fish but was quickly told by a local that he wasn’t allowed to keep them. He was sad.

We returned to the corps to share some time with a few of the members. They shared their concerns about the current reality and desired future for the corps. We know there must be ownership at the local level as well as a wider partnership to fill the gaps. There are no easy answers. The trembling possibilities in some of these situations are unpredictable. What are their choices? What are ours? Perhaps each time the earth tilts them and us a new day, we can merge from the darkness together and make the best use of our fresh time and unused space.

Back in Lodwar on Sunday, about 200 Salvationists throughout the district gather for worship. Some had traveled as much as 7 hours over over the rough road to be together with the THQ visitors. Outside the hall when the service was over, a few women robed in their traditional dress and neck decorations posed for a photo with us. I'm not sure what a new day holds for them, but I pray God gives them new courage and the hope of trembling possibilities.

Until the earth rises tomorrow ...

This is the way we wash the house, wash the house, wash the house ...

Off roading

Lake Turkana

Damaged roads, washed out

Ladies in traditional dress and neck gear pose for a pic with THQ guests.

They honored us with some traditional gifts to wear.

Morris also got a walking stick & chair 

A little toss - a big difference

October 02.17

A little toss - a big difference

Allow me to paraphrase an old legend.  Thousands of star fish are swept from the ocean onto sandy dry beaches. Many of them will die. Suddenly one star fish is retrieved and tossed gently back into the water by a young boy. Then another and another.  One by one, a few star fish are salvaged and returned to their wet home.  An onlooker asks the boy, ‘Why would you make such a trivial effort? The disaster is huge. Thousands of fish are dead.  You are wasting your time. How can this make any significant difference?’  The boy looks at the fish in his hand, smiles, and says “It makes a difference for this one.” 

In Kenya, as in many parts of the world, there are countless star fish stories which are no legend. The stark truth illuminates every waking day. It feels like so many people are ‘washed up’ onto dry land, struggling to survive. Poverty is real and affects all areas of life. Basic needs (food, clean water, shelter) are not always easily acquired. Education standards and resources are limited.  Poor road conditions present transportation dilemmas.  Cultural stigmas affect family and community life. How do we tackle such huge giants? What difference can an ordinary person make?

Here are a few snap shots of those who gave ‘a little toss’ to a few star fish this year and made a big difference.

1     A donation of $100US from an anonymous donor provided five rolls of material for the Survivors new sewing group. These women are turning their lives away from prostitution and choosing an admirable way to make a living. They just need a little support.

2    A $200US donation makes it possible for 40 young boys to don new t-shirts. Since sharing this in my last blog, I discovered that these t-shirts actually help protect the boys from being thrown in jail. Because they live on the streets at night, they are often picked up by the police. When the police see them wearing the t-shirts with the SA logo, they know they are part of our program. They believe the boys are trying to make a change in their lives so they leave them alone.

                       

3       A $600CDN donation from two retired school teachers was used to buy sewing machines for a School with children who are deaf and hearing impaired.  The school has a vocational program empowering those with a disability to overcome a stigma that puts a shadow over them. With the support of these new sewing machines, they can learn tailoring skills to make their school uniforms and encourage their dream of one day owning a business.

     

   

      A $2500 donation (combined effort from more than one person) made it possible for one of our corps to purchase much needed flooring tiles for their dirt floor. This corps building is one of hundreds in desperate need of improvements. The people were so happy to gather for worship and actually have a clean surface to walk on.

Corps building before:

Corps building after:

5    Salvationists on the local level also contribute to identified needs. When the staff at the Training College revealed an anxious situation of lack of food for the Cadets, the Women’s Ministry department banned together across the Territory and accumulated many pounds of beans, maize flour, cooking oil, sugar, and other essentials to provide nutrition for those training to become the next spiritual leaders in the country.

 

     

Each of these donations (by one person or several people) doesn’t solve all the problems in Kenya but it sure makes a difference to the ones ‘catching the toss’.   Is that a star fish I see in your hand? 

September - back to school and more ...

September - Back to School and more …

Morris and I are grateful for media sources that keep us aware of what’s happening in our world and at home.  For the first week (or so) of September, my Facebook feed (like yours) has been peppered with tons of pics and posts of ‘back to school’.   I curiously read of parents taking their 3 – 5 year olds to pre-school or Kindergarten for the first time.  Then I browsed the narratives of families dropping their ‘young adults’ off at University or College.  I was fascinated with how similar the emotions were in both scenarios – excitement and tinges of heart wrenching nostalgia.  For younger parents, they hardly believe their ‘babies’ are ready to explore a new world - their first educational institution. For families of high school graduates, they barely imagine their ‘babies’ are now transitioning into adult domain. As I scanned these stories, I quickly reflected on the day we ‘released’ Erica and Stephanie to their initial schooling experiences (Kindergarten and Post-Secondary).  Some emotions are apparently common ground for many of us.

This year, school is still a part of our family life. Stephanie has returned to her second year of an Education Support Program at Conestoga College in Kitchener.  She will have opportunity to do some substitute teaching now as well, which is exciting for her.  September for Morris marks the completion of his first university degree: MA in Leadership from the University of Guelph. He has worked very hard for the last 18 months, particularly since this covered three appointments and our biggest life transition to a new home and leadership role in a developing country. We will be celebrating his graduation on October 21!  As for Erica and myself, we aren’t doing any formal studies right now but we are still in learning mode.  Along with being the mother of two little ones, Erica is becoming her own entrepreneur with two ventures – her Doula business as well as learning the ropes of being a Property Investor.  She is also now ‘teacher mom’ (along with teacher dad) to Anna-Lynne whose pre-school comprehension includes knowing her colors, her alphabet and she can count to 20, though she isn’t yet 3 years old!  I think she will be ready for school next year. :)  For me, my schooling life is about trying to improve my writing skills and learn more Swahali.  

To bring my focus back to Kenya, a few other schooling matters grabbed my attention this month. I walked to the ‘house’ next to THQ on Wednesday to deliver new t-shirts to our boys program, thanks to a kind donation from a friend in the US.  Here the Salvation Army offers an education and social setting to young boys who live on the streets in Kakamega. The program is called “Martha’s Boys”. Most of these boys, ranging from age 8-26 years, have little clothing - many only what they wear, made obvious by the washing we see them doing every day.  Their faces lit up as they donned their new shirts (pic below). They come from tough ‘family’ situations and many find no recourse but to sleep on the streets. They are welcomed at our program every day for a meal, learning social skills, and engage in classroom education.  In October, we will celebrate that 12 of them are enrolling for their high school final exams! My scope of emotions that day radiated from the joy of how we are able to help these boys to a sadness that unlike many reading this blog, family life is not the boys’ best asset. A good friend of mine recently shared with me how her 21 year old grandson wrote a beautiful letter of appreciation to his parents this year for their birthdays.  What a gift! How I wish these boys could know a fraction of the family love so many of us take for granted.

The toughest school story, however, is a very tragic one - a chronicle even tougher than hearing that the August election in Kenya was ruled ‘null and void’ because of corruption in the voting system. Kenyans go back to the polls on October 17.  In spite of all the focus on the country’s political woes, what reached the heart of the Kenyan people was the devastating report out of Nairobi that nine girls died when a high school dormitory was burned out last week. Unfortunately, arson is suspected. A 14 year old girl is now in custody and accused of murder and arson. So sad. Morris and I have visited many boarding school dormitories. They are often small rooms with large numbers of students sleeping in tightly fitted bunk beds. I imagined the panic when fire broke out. The news reported the heartache of the families. As I pray for the families who mourn so deeply, I also pray that the young girl implicated in the tragedy will find a better way forward in her life.  

Beyond what is happening here in Kenya of course, we are also conscious of many horrific world events this month - hurricanes throughout the southern States and Caribbean, earthquakes in Mexico and Italy, and monsoon rains causing exponential flooding in South East Asia leaving 1.8 million children unable to go school.  So many lives are torn apart and communities struggling to manage all the brokenness. 

Not sure what this September brings to you. Perhaps my musings bring to mind your own memories or increases your level of gratitude.  We live in a ‘both/and’ world.  Many of us have incredible blessings AND the lives of others are laced with disaster and grief.  I hope this blog prompts you to remember those in our world who need our prayers and our financial support. Let’s turn our empathy into action. We can all make some difference.

Let me close with the truth of one of my favorite songs in the Salvation Army songbook.

This is my Father’s world

O let me ne’er forget

That though the wrong seems oft so strong

God is the ruler yet.

23 boys who attend the Marthas Boys program along with their teacher, Vincent, and 

Major Beatrice Musieni, the Social Sponsorship Secretary 

After donning their t-shirts, they wanted a photo with me as well. 

2017 Kenya Election

August 21, 2017

Experiencing life outside your own country continues to broaden our perspective of global realisms.  The past few weeks have caused Morris and I to trust deeply that all would be well here in Kenya during their national election.  We have joined many around the world to pray for peace as we supported efforts toward promoting a calm election process as well as preparing for any potential emergency. We have a new appreciation for a place like Canada where the nuances of democracy are understood and followed without fear.  We have a more profound empathy towards a nation like Kenya where people have the same rights as anyone else but those rights are not always secure.  In 1963 Kenya became a democratic nation, but when a national egalitarian process like an election happens, suddenly there is no certainty that democracy will be followed completely.

We all knew this would be a close race between Uhuru Kenyatta, reigning President, and 72 year old Raila Odigna, the Opposition leader who was trying for the fourth time to secure the top seat in Kenya’s legislation. Interestingly, the fathers of both these men competed for the same office a number of years back.  Kenyatta’s platform focused on a promise to create a million jobs while Odinga said he would fight corruption in the country.  For weeks, people were tense and on the ‘edge of their seat’ to see whether this would be a diplomatic and non-violent process.  One horrific incident shattered hopes even before Election Day.   Levels of anxiety and uncertainty were raised when Chris Msando, director of the Information Technology commission overseeing the election’s voting process, was tortured and killed. Speculations over the cause and intention of this murder began to trickle through the land.

On August 08, nearly 80% of the 19 million eligible voters went to the polls to elect a new President. From 1:00 a.m. til late that evening, residents lined up for hours (some ques were 3-4 kilometers long) at more than 40,000 polling stations to hope their vote counted.  We woke the next morning to the news that Kenyatta was in the lead and Odigna was adamant this was a rigged election, declaring the voting process a fraud.  Immediately, some violent protests broke out, thankfully not reaching the feared levels from 2007.  As we heard of the fatalities, we knew that democracy has its limitations here and our hearts were saddened by the loss of life in an event that should be everyone’s peaceful right. It was particularly sad to know the Kibera neighborhood in Nairobi, the poorest area of Kenya, was specifically targeted. Those whom Jesus says should receive our greatest love and attention, were now the object of injustice.

It took three days before the voting tallies were complete and the incumbent President declared the winner, securing more than 57% of the votes. Every day we checked for the levels of safety around our communities and anxiously waited to ensure no major uprising occurred. When  myself and Commissioner Grace took our flight to Nairobi on Aug. 11, there was a noticeable extra police presence at the Kisumu airport. When Morris and the TC traveled to Kisumu on August 15, they could see the remnants of the fires that had occurred in the city.  Another disturbing news story revealed that the President of the IEBC (Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission) had committed suicide. Once again, sadness surfaced.  After several days of wondering how Odigna would finally manage his defeat, it appears he has filed a petition with the Supreme Court to challenge the election results. The ruling will be released on September 01.

If I could borrow a line from my home country’s national anthem, I would choose these words for Kenya: God keep this land glorious and free.  We continue to pray for peace in Kenya. “In Thee, O Lord, do I put my trust.” 

Election Preparedness

July 13.17

A couple weeks ago, I wrote a blog on peace. Basing my thoughts on the difference between sitting quietly on my front veranda and the reality of what is going on outside the compound, especially as it relates to the national election that is now very close.  Many people are concerned that peace will be disturbed and violence may erupt. Over the past few weeks, we have been tormented with news that violence has already occurred but Kenyans are still hopeful that this will not be a repeat of the 2007 'bloody' election.  The expectation is that the voting on August 8 will create a close race between the leader of the Jubilee party (currently reigning) and the opposition party (National Super Alliance).  The hope is that the election results will be released within 24 hours. This should alleviate the worry for post election violence. If the results are delayed, fears arise that the election process has been rigged which can trigger riotous responses.

Knowing the burden that is shared by so many Kenyans right now, The Salvation Army has taken a proactive approach to help support and prepare the people. With the possibility of unrest looming all too close, the two Territories - Kenya East and Kenya West - have combined forces to prepare for the people's safety and well being. A national conference was held for both territories with support from International Headquarters to provide training and equip many of our leaders to help promote a time of peace in the land and also to prepare for emergency responses. As Salvation Army leaders, we want to help build peace in the communities and do all we can to protect innocent people.

A recent report from the Election Preparedness Conference gives the details regarding what is being done here:

To help find as many ways and opportunities as possible to promote peace, The Salvation Army has planned various strategies.  Resources for Bible studies and sermons are available to help teach Christian values on peace and to remind people of the Christian perspective. Songs have been written about peace. Opportunities to promote peace have been taken during football tournaments, in school competitions, and at various other public events.  Banners with peace messages are being used in multiple ways. Household checklists with directives to be followed during the week of the election is being distributed as well as bookmarks, car stickers, and other resources - all in the name of building peace. A film that tells the whole story of conflict preparedness and peace building is also available. An excellent music video has been created to encourage Kenyans about peace. The production came as a result of recordings done here in both Kenyan Territories of various ministry units, including the Street Boys program and various schools.  (The video has just been released from IHQ and is now available for viewing through various media platforms - Facebook, Twitter, etc. - see the link below).

While all of the country is on alert regarding the election, there are certain 'hot spots' where violence is more likely to happen. Our projects team have visited several of these areas, providing information and sharing election preparedness resources, including taking the program into many schools to share with both students and staff on how to prepare for safety if needed. 1000 checklists have been distributed to 20 different areas. 500 car stickers and 2000 bookmarks were given to every Salvation Army Division and District. 

The other concern in case of disturbances following the election is the availability of food for people. Many people will choose to stay in their homes for a number of days. Markets and shops that usually provide food may have some challenges with their stock. People are encouraged to have at least one week's supply of food on hand.  In case of a need to support vulnerable or unprepared residents, The Salvation Army is preparing a stock pile of food in case of emergency. This includes the local food basics: maize, beans, cooking oil, rice, and sugar. Other emergency supplies such as blankets and mats will also be available.  As well, many of our compounds are being prepared to become a shelter for displaced people if needed. 

So what can you do to help?  Keep yourself informed through national television regarding the election and most importantly, pray.  Yes, please pray.  We believe God desires peace for his people and we believe in the power of prayer. I call upon all those who have faith in God (in whatever form you choose to express that), to pray for peace for Kenya for the next several weeks - both leading up to and after the Election Day (August 08).  We ask you to pray for us and for all our Officers and their families and for all the residents of this country. Morris and I, along with the Territorial Commander and his wife, have made adjustments in our schedules to limit our travel during this period. However, we are scheduled to attend a Zonal Conference in Madagascar and we ask for your prayers that our travel will be possible and safe. Commissioner Grace and I leave on August 11 for a Women's Conference that happens first and then Morris and Commissioner Stephen travel on August 14. Be assured we will not take any unnecessary risks and we will be quite confident that travelling is safe before leaving home.

If you have not already seen the video referenced above, I strongly encourage you to view it. The video was made possible by the partnership of International Development Services and International Emergency Services, both based at The Salvation Army International Headquarters in London, England.  It is worth the watch. A press release from IHQ recently quoted Morris regarding this project: "Lieut-Colonel Morris Vincent (Chief Secretary, Kenya West Territory) says: ‘Everything is so well done and the children express confidently and with great passion their desire for this time in our history to be peaceful. I express appreciation to all who partnered to make this happen. We value more than words can fully express the ongoing support from the international Salvation Army for our territory (in this case for both Kenya territories)."

Here is the link to view the video and the short documentary:  http://www.salvationarmy.org/ihq/kenyamyhome

Thanks everyone for all your love, thoughts, prayers, and support for us and especially now for this country that needs continued peace.

Injustice

July 04.17

Injustice

The word ‘injustice’ conjures many images in our minds. Human trafficking, terrorism, war, poverty, unequal distribution of wealth, and world hunger are a few. Injustice in its simplest terms is any unfair act or wrong treatment toward an individual or group. The most recent news story of the young American who died after being imprisoned in North Korea for 15 months is one more reminder. Recently I have been made aware of two examples that tear at my heart. One is FGM – Female Genital Mutilation. I barely knew what this was until this year. While this practice has been largely eliminated in Kenya, in some areas it still exists, often in secret. Some tribes and cultures still consider this procedure to be something good for young girls - a way to prepare them for marriage or even considered as a sign of beauty and respect. Yet, it seems like such an unfair attack on the innocent bodies of precious young women. FGM can be damaging physically, mentally, and emotionally.  Many of the girls affected are trapped and have to run away from home to escape - but they have no place to go. I feel sad that what some may view as a normal expectation can be so harming.

Another example of injustice came to my attention while I was preparing to go into the field with one of our Women’s Ministry groups called WORTH.  This income generating program started in 2012 and has been successful in several areas. Through the support of The Salvation Army initially from New Zealand and now through the US (SAWSO), financial support is enabling this program to continue. Groups of women in rural villages meet weekly, giving them opportunity to save and borrow money, mostly to help start their own businesses but it also provides literacy training and other life skills. During my first visit to the program, I heard many success stories.  Women testify to being more self-sufficient and better able to support their families – pay school fees, install electricity in their homes, buy milking cows, and pay for funeral expenses were a few of the stories I heard.

On route to my first WORTH group visit, the Officer at THQ who is in charge of the program shared with us a terrible injustice that happened in another group a few days ago. As part of the program, the treasurer takes the money box to her home for safe keeping. (I know this would not be an acceptable practice in Canada but it is here). The box is locked with three padlocks and three different people have keys so there is no way for the treasurer alone to have access to the money. This is part of their accountability procedures. The tragedy which happened, though, occurred late one evening.  Someone broke into the treasurer’s home and began to beat her, demanding she hand over the money box. The speculation is that someone leaked information into the village that this lady was keeping the box of money in her home and thus the attack. The treasurer survived the attacks.  Instead of giving them the group’s money, she gave them some of her own hard earned money to get them to leave her.  The incident shook her and I am sure she is now quite fearful in her own home. 

Whenever we hear of injustice happening, we often ask – what can we do? In the cases I just shared, the Women’s Ministry Department is responding. Even if we cannot eliminate all that seems so unfair or prevent them from happening again, we can hopefully make some difference. At the Africa Women Officers Zonal Conference in August, Commissioner Grace Chepkurui, will be presenting a workshop on FGM. Included will be a discussion with the women leaders across Africa to consider further preventative measures to help cease the practice and increase the awareness of the damage it can cause. Commissioner Grace and I also have plans to share this with the divisional and district women officers at a working retreat we are having in September. We realize two things in these action plans. One, discussion is not enough. We must act. Two, it will take initiatives in the local areas from the local people to really make the difference.

As for the situation with the WORTH program, there is now a review of the practices and procedures concerning how we can better protect the women involved.  Some challenges are very difficult to overcome but we are working together towards better days.

I have no doubt that there is injustice happening all around us. It isn’t always what we hear on the news.  Sometimes it’s in our own backyard – or yes, even in our church. Let’s keep ourselves attentive to anything that promotes inequality, violates basic human rights, causes unjust injury of any kind, or disturbs any person’s sense of dignity. It’s wrong. Let’s not be satisfied to simply feel pity. There just may be something we can do. Something I can do and you can do. Be willing to get involved. You just might make a difference in your corner of the world.

Some pics of my visit to the WORTH program.

The money box

 Every group loves for visitors to come and speak with them. 

And of course, dance with them!!

The group started small but quickly grew to fill the corps building