The Anglican Church of Kenya Butere diocese bishop Rose Okeno has asked the church evangelists to be courageous as they spread the gospel of Christ.
The Rt. Rev. Okeno said the gospel ministry is not for the fainthearted but it is for those with strong faith that they will survive.
“God has called you to demonstrate that those focused on Jesus will survive. Stand bold because God has called you to serve him”, she said.
In her sermon during the affirmation and renewal of Lay Readers’ and Evangelists’ licenses at ACK St. Mark’s Buchenya parish, the bishop encouraged them to follow the example of Jesus Christ who suffered in the hands of those he came to save.
“Jesus managed to overturn the world in three years because He did what God wanted. I challenge you to do what God expects you to do in His ministry and do not be afraid because Jesus is the foundation that you need to trust”, she added.
“Preach to the people as you practice reconciliation instead of anger, practice forgiveness instead of bitterness. Don’t backbite one another but always preach peace and harmony. Be present in the ministry and don’t care about the presents. Know what God expects of you and you will survive the storm”, said the bishop.
Rt. Rev. Okeno also reminded the Lay Readers and the Evangelists to be guided by the diocesan vision and mission as they preach the gospel.
“I believe you have been taught about our vision and mission and I am not here to set exams but to remind ourselves that the work you are about to embark on is in line with our vision of advancing the gospel of Jesus and his kingdom by proclaiming, renewing and discipling”, she explained.
The two-day training brought together more than 300 participants from the deaneries of Inaya, Shikunga, Shiatsala, and St. Luke’s Cathedral which form the Buchenya archdeaconry.
The service was attended by the diocesan administrative secretary Canon Silas Hopilo, the provost The Very Rev. Moses Omoke, Buchenya Arch-Deacon Ven. Daniel Inyangala, Education Secretary Canon Robert Matati who is also Vicar Ibokolo parish, Mission Director Rev. Edward Musungu among other members of the clergy.