On 1 March 2025, an important milestone was reached when 20 dedicated church planters from a single district graduated in Nairobi, Kenya, after completing their theological training. These graduates represent a new wave of leaders equipped to shepherd congregations in newly planted African East Field churches. Their journey has been one of faith, perseverance, and divine provision.

Pastors Titus Nzomo, Annah Kinyolo, and Andrew Nding'u are three of the graduates of this program. They are members of the Kenya Eastern District, and District Superintendent Augustus Musili has championed church planting and the use of the JESUS film in the district. These three pastors can testify to that support.

Pastor Andrew knew there was a need for strong spiritual leadership in the newly planted churches. His superintendent and the church planting essentials training he received at the district level inspired him. 

"It was amazing and exciting," exclaimed Andrew of being chosen to study theology. "It was unbelievable for some pastors who have struggled for years. Thanks to God and the leaders at the district level, as well as the college principal and teachers."

Andrew has planted four churches and eight preaching points since February 2024. Those preaching points will soon become churches. Pastor Andrew is actively discipling young leaders who will carry on the work. Pastor Andrew calls this the "Timothy Training Initiative," or TTI.

These 20 pastors who have completed their studies through the Church Planters Ministerial Education Scholarship program are now candidates for future ordination as they gain experience and grow in ministry. 

The Church Planters Ministerial Education Scholarship is a Nazarene Missions project on the Africa East Field, which covers Burundi, Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, South Sudan, Tanzania, and Uganda. The scholarship fund helps relieve the cost of education for pastors and church planters.

These well-equipped pastors will play a crucial role in church planting and development across their local districts and the Africa East Field, expanding the reach of the gospel and nurturing local congregations.

To learn more about the Church Planters Ministerial Education Scholarship, click here.

--Church of the Nazarene Africa Region