KENYA VIRTUAL YOUTH  MISSION TEAM

This Virtual Team has been invited by His Grace, Neophytos Bishop of Nyeri and Mount Kenya to participate in this event to encourage the youth and allow them to see how we are connected as one world-wide Orthodox Church. Born in 1970 in Kesengei Village, Bishop Neophytos attended Archbishop Makarios III seminary in Nairobi and then in 2005 graduated from Holy Cross School of Theology in MA. In 2015 he was elected the first bishop of the Diocese of Nyeri and Mount Kenya. His vision and concern for youth is an important step in the establishment and future growth of the Orthodox faith in Kenya.

With a population of about 51 million people, Kenya is a culturally rich nation with a blend of different cultures and ethnic groups. It has one of the highest literacy rates in all of Africa and it is blessed with an abundance of natural resources. About 25% of the population live in major cities. The majority of Kenyans live at a subsistence level, growing crops and rearing animals. It is estimated that 43% live under the poverty line (earning under $2/day). One thing that is concerning the youth is finding hope in these unstable times. Employment, quality education, disintegration of the family structure and many social concerns are present challenges that impact their lives.

This Team will offer a one-day retreat for a small group of youth leaders that will focus on sharing the depth of our Orthodox faith as it is a source of hope in our lives. With topics that will range from how we can emulate the Saints to discussions about being an Orthodox Christian in Kenya and America, the Team will be an opportunity to discuss the hope that the Church offers in these challenging times.

Fund raising – We have a list of requested items that are needed for this Team to be successful in Kenya. Team Members are encouraged to invite others to participate in this effort through prayer and tax-deductible donations. If you would like to contribute to this project, which is also supported by the OCMC, we are grateful for your support.

Share in a journey of faith… Orthodox Mission Team members are challenged to view the world with God's eyes and seek how He wants to use them to fulfill His plans. This cross-cultural experience, combined with outreach, offers participants a life-changing learning experience. This experience is about people, culture and missions. It is also about prayer, for you and others; it is about God, those you serve, and about yourself, as you serve Him.