As a Nairobi native, and being aware of its strategic location and significant influence in East Africa, my heart is burdened to serve the Lord Jesus Christ there by proclaiming the Gospel, making disciples of all peoples and tribes, and teaching them to obey all that Christ has commanded. Rachel and I believe the Lord is calling us to plant an evangelical church in Nairobi, the capital of Kenya.

Over the last 20 years, Nairobi has seen rapid population growth and increased economic development leading to a burgeoning of the city with a significant proportion being young adults, professionals and families. Partly because of the city’s rapid growth, many new housing estates have few or no churches, so there is a great need for church planting, particularly in the suburbs and outskirts of Nairobi.

My heart is burdened to serve the Lord Jesus Christ

Who are we?

First a few words about myself and my family. My name is Kiprotich Chelashaw. Since most people find that a bit of a mouthful, I am known simply as Kip’. I am originally from Kenya (although I don’t do any long-distance running!) and came to the UK in 1997 to study. I trained for the ministry at Oak Hill Theological College which is also where I met Rachel. She was visiting a friend, we got introduced and the result is … a lovely marriage! Rachel was born in South Africa to missionary parents, has served as a missionary in a Muslim context and worked as a nurse. She is now focused on our children (Elijah, 6; Ezra, 4; Susanna 2 and baby Bethany) and home, and loves to read the Bible with women and children. Up until July, our family attended East Dean Church, near Eastbourne, where I served as the assistant minister. However, in late August we flew to Nairobi and envision being there long-term as we seek to lead a church plant in the city.

Why Nairobi?

Although I have lived in Britain for nearly half of my life, I have, what I believe, is a God-given desire to return to Nairobi to give back some of what I have learnt and been blessed with whilst in the UK. Specifically, I am thankful for the faithful biblical teaching I received both on the Cornhill Training Course and while training for the ordained ministry.

Striving to know God and to enjoy him forever

Does Nairobi need a new church?

Whilst central Nairobi has numerous churches, many rapidly-growing suburbs have few or no churches. Additionally, many churches are very worldly, with a focus on healing and a claim that financial success will follow those who give to the church. Multitudes are being deceived; they are without Christ and without hope. Our burden is to see churches which teach the whole counsel of God, regularly break bread together, are concerned for the needy and are reaching the lost with the Gospel. It would be a delight to see Kenyan churches whose members do not view church as a way of increasing one’s income and status but, instead, are striving to know God and to enjoy him forever.

Where in Nairobi?

kip 2
For our target area we have chosen Loresho: a suburb in north-west Nairobi, bordered to the south by the slum of Kangemi. This area has been chosen following conversations with various pastors who have noted the significant population growth in the area and apparent lack of churches. Loresho is also a strategic location because it incorporates important arterial routes into the city and is, therefore, easily accessible. It also has various educational establishments and research institutions including 2 major university campuses and the Kenya Police Staff College.

What next?

Once we are settled in Nairobi we plan to offer hospitality and run weekly Bible studies in our home. One will be for believers who are keen to support the church plant and another for non-believers focussed on sharing the Gospel and seeking real repentance and true trust in Christ. In the coming months we hope to gather a core team of believers as we prepare for the first worship service, God-willing, sometime in 2018.

Please pray for us

We know that this will not be an easy road to travel and are, therefore, depending on your prayer and support. Please pray for:

  • Safety: In the home, in our travels, and when out and about in the city.
  • Strength: There is much that needs to be done and we will need to know the Lord’s sustaining and upholding hand daily. (Isaiah 40:28-31)
  • Salvation: Firstly for ourselves, that we may keep our eyes fixed on the Author and Perfecter of our faith and so work out our salvation with fear and trembling. Secondly, for all those in Nairobi with whom we will come into contact. May we be filled and abound with the Holy Spirit and so be used by God to add to his kingdom all those he is calling.

We are confident that in Christ, God will work out all things for good, to the praise of his glorious grace.

– Kip’ Chelashaw