Global Missions
We’re HEaDED To Kenya
Jambo! This page was created so that you can follow along with us on our journey as we come alongside our brothers and sisters in Kenya, sharing the Kingdom of God and fufilling His call to go and make disciples (Matthew 28:19) . You too are apart of this mission. Whether you are a goer, sender, intercessor, or mobilizer, your role is vital to what God is doing through this missions trip.
Associate Pastor Johnson (left), with Kenya hosts Pastor Sammy (center) and his wife (right).
JUNE 29 | ATLANTA, GEORGIA
Back in the “A!”
We made it home safely! A special thank you to everyone on our prayer team who interceded for our journey. Though we returned tired, we are full of joy and gratitude!
Here’s a word from Missionary, Aliya:
JUNE 29 | RONGAI, KENYA
KINGDOM ADVANCEMENT
While Team A is recovering stateside, the mission continues abroad.
Back in Kenya, Team B is pressing forward in Kingdom work. AP Johnson ministered at Peniel Christian Gathering in Rongai, Kenya, and played a key role in feeding over 60 families—meeting both spiritual and physical needs.
JUNE 29 | ILERET, KENYA
A WARM WELCOME
Farther north, Pastor Goard, Pastor Shelley, and Evangelist Edmond journeyed to Ileret Village to reach the Daasanach people. They were welcomed with smiles, dancing, and joyful celebration as they shared the love of Christ.
From Atlanta to Kenya, the mission is alive—and God is moving!
JUNE 28 | KENYA TO ATLANTA, GEORGIA
A Blissful Farewell: Our Final Day Together in Kenya 🇰🇪
Our final day in Kenya was nothing short of beautiful, a peaceful and spirit-filled close to an unforgettable journey.
As the sun rose over the shores of Mombasa, a few team members began the morning with prayer walks along the beach, lifting their voices in gratitude for all the Lord has done during our time in Kenya. The crashing waves and gentle breeze made the perfect backdrop for quiet reflection and thanksgiving.
After checking out of our hotel, we made one last meaningful stop at Mikindani Royal Comprehensive School and Orphanage. We delivered a few final gifts to the students and shared heartfelt goodbyes. The children’s smiles and warm embraces reminded us once again of the deep impact God allowed us to have, and the way they impacted us in return.
Following the visit, we gathered for our final team lunch and devotional, led by Pastor Shelley. Together, we opened our Bibles to 1 Peter chapter 5 and reflected on the suffering many of us experienced—not just during the trip, but leading up to it, and perhaps even what may await us back home. Yet through every trial, this journey made it unmistakably clear: the Lord’s presence never left us. Even when He doesn’t remove hardship right away, He walks beside us—refining, strengthening, and shaping us for His glory.
“And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”
— 1 Peter 5:10 (ESV)
As the day came to a close, we boarded our flight from Mombasa to Nairobi, where our team parted ways.
Team A:
Aliya, Amechi, Bintou, Deneen, Vernon, Erica, Rachel, Donald, Neta, Latasha, Sonya, Tammy, Tryphose, and Orson flew from Nairobi to Paris, and then onward to Atlanta—returning home on June 29.
Team B:
Pastor Shelley, Pastor Goard, Evangelist Larisa, and AP Johnson will remain in Kenya until July 3. Pastor Shelley, Pastor Goard, Larisa, and our Kenyan host Pastor Ken will travel to Ileret Village in northern Kenya to minister to the Daasanach people, an unreached people group (less than 2% identify as followers of Jesus Christ). Meanwhile, AP Johnson will stay behind in Nairobi to minister at a local church.
As we close this chapter, our hearts are full. We are overwhelmed with gratitude for all the Lord has done—in us, through us, and among the people of Kenya. May His name continue to be glorified in every village, every heart, and every nation.
Thank you for praying with us, supporting us, and walking this journey alongside us.
Stay tuned—God’s not done yet.
JUNE 27 | MOMBASA, KENYA
Mambo Sawa Sawa
Today was full of joy, culture, and deep impact. We started early with worship practice—led unexpectedly by our driver Jimmy, who taught us:
Mambo Sawa Sawa (x2)
Yesu Akiwa Enzine (x1)
Mambo Sawa Sawa (x3)
We were warmly welcomed at Mikindani Royal Comprehensive School and Orphanage, where Kheri and his wife celebrated 25 years of service and 10 years of marriage. After devotions and Bible lessons, the children blessed us with traditional songs and dances—faces painted, dressed in bright yellow. We responded with a joyful Electric Slide and then a spirited USA vs. Kenya volleyball match—where our “Big Five” team pulled off a 21–17 win! As we blessed the school with markers, paper, and other school supplies, the kids’ chant rang in our hearts, “God is good all the time because that is His nature! WOW!” Thanks to generous donation from our community back home, we were also able to gift them with kickball equipment and period products.
JUNE 27 | MOMBASA, KENYA
Fort Jesus and Old Town Mombasa
In the afternoon, we visited Fort Jesus and Old Town Mombasa, learning powerful and often overlooked truths about East Africa’s slave trade, the Mau Mau uprising, and Kenya’s resilience. One hopeful note: there has never been conflict between Christians and Muslims in Kenya—a true testimony of peace.
We ended with devotion led by Ms. Bintou, who reminded us to carry the mission forward wherever we go.
And when asked to sum up the day in one word, here’s what the team shared:
Delightful.
Heartwarming.
Radiant.
Filling.
Encouraged.
JUNE 26 | MOMBASA, KENYA
TRAVEL DAY TO MOMBASA
Today was a day of travel and transition as we said goodbye to Amboseli and journeyed to Mombasa for the final leg of our outreach.
We started the morning with a delicious breakfast—to our surprise and delight, French toast and pork bacon were on the menu! That little taste of home had everyone smiling and fueled up for the day ahead.
Before departing Sopa Lodge, we took in our last views of Mount Kilimanjaro, watched monkeys and rock hyraxes roaming freely, and reflected on the beauty and strength of the Maasai people.
After a smooth flight, we arrived in Mombasa, checked into Milele Beach Resort, and settled in for the evening. We closed the night with gratitude and anticipation for tomorrow’s visit to Mikindani Royal Comprehensive Primary & High School, where we’ll deliver period products, kickballs, and school supplies.
A special shoutout to our generous donors—your gifts are making a big impact, and tomorrow the students will feel your love in every item we give.
JUNE 25 | MAKUENI, KENYA TO AMBOSELI KENYA
School Visit – Mithuluni Primary
We made it to Amboseli and checked into the stunning Sopa Lodge—lush gardens, hut-style cottages, roaming monkeys, and a perfect view of Mount Kilimanjaro.
Traffic delays meant we missed our safari, but God had a surprise—a powerful cultural exchange with the Maasai tribe! The men had a jumping contest, and Orson held his own, earning a staff and honorary brother status. The pastors also received staffs in a beautiful moment of connection.
Unplanned, yet unforgettable.
JUNE 24 | MAKUENI, KENYA
Our day began with breakfast and devotion led by Pastor Sammy before we headed back to the Kairos Center for the final day of the Pastoral & Leadership Training Conference.
A highlight was the Kingdom illustration activity led by Pastor Goard, Pastor Shelley, and AP Johnson. Participants pulled random items from a bag and creatively connected them to kingdom principles. The tent echoed with laughter, praise, and revelation as we saw the Spirit move through their boldness and understanding. What a joy to witness the merging of African and Black American believers in a shared kingdom culture of “Amen” and “Hallelujah!”
The most powerful moment came during the altar call and impartation for pastors and help ministers. Pastor Shelley urged us to put our faith on 1000%, releasing fear and stepping boldly into intercession. He shared the story of Tamar, and called forward those struggling with shame and abuse. God moved mightily—over 15 individuals came forward, and our team responded with courage and compassion. We prayed, prophesied, and commissioned them to go preach the Gospel, fully equipped and restored.
We ended an impactful day of prayer and teaching by blessing each participant with pastoral resources, including books on the kingdom of God and a signed copy of Battle Tactics by Pastor Vincent Goard.
JUNE 24 | MAKUENI, KENYA
School Visit – Mithuluni Primary
In the afternoon, we visited Mithuluni Primary School, where more than 100 children welcomed us with heartfelt presentations. We shared the message of the kingdom, prayed over every student and teacher, and then—it was game time!
Kickball broke out in full force as we split into groups with the younger and older kids. The joy was contagious, the laughter loud, and the dust of Kenya rose with every kick and cheer. One teen guarding 3rd base was a standout star!
We are happy to share that we were able to bless the school with period products and sports rec equipment, including volleyballs, volleyball net, and kickball supplies. Twende means let’s go! Twende learners and future kickball all stars! We appreciate you all for joining in the fun and the opportunity to share the good news of God’s kingdom.
JUNE 24 | MAKUENI, KENYA
The Bahati Family Home
We ended the day at Pastor Ken’s family home, warmly welcomed by Papa and Mother Bahati. Hearing their testimony of faith—how they blessed their son’s calling years ago—was a full-circle moment of encouragement and affirmation for us all.
“The God who has called you will be with you.”
Those words rang true for us too.
⸻
Bwana Asifiwe! (Praise God!)
From kingdom teaching to red-dirt kickball to tears at the altar, God met us in every moment.
JUNE 23 | MAKUENI, KENYA
Kingdom Conference
We began the day with breakfast and devotion, then traveled to the Kairos Center for Day 1 of our Pastoral & Leadership Training Conference, The Kingdom Conference.
Through four sessions, we poured into local leaders with biblical teaching on the kingdom of God. We also practiced basic Kamba greetings, building bridges through language and shared culture. Conversations over tea and lunch deepened relationships and revealed the passion of the leaders we came to serve.
June 23 | Katung’uli Village
Evening Film Outreach
That evening, we visited Katung’uli village for an outdoor screening of the Walking With Jesus film. Deaconess Latashia opened with a powerful song, setting the tone for worship.
When the projector failed repeatedly, Pastor Ken and Evangelist. Larisa prayed boldly—and the equipment turned on.
“We declared, ‘We will not be embarrassed in the name of Jesus,’ and it just turned on.” – Pastor Ken
Over 100 people gathered—on the ground, between shops, in the streets. Paul gave the altar call, and Minister Donald led nearly 30 people in a prayer of salvation.
We ended with prayer and dinner, rejoicing in all God is doing.
God is truly building something beautiful—one greeting, one smile, one conversation at a time.
JUNE 22 | NAIROBI, KENYA
Giraffes Said: Run Me My Pellets or Else…
After our morning in worship, we took a little detour into the wild — and the Giraffe Centre did not disappoint.
Now listen… these giraffes were beautiful but let’s be real — they had one goal and one goal only: get fed. If you had food in your hand, you were their favorite person. If you didn’t? Watch out — you might just get headbutted.
This was a chance to slow down and soak in the wonder of Kenya.
After that, we visited local shops and picked up meaningful gifts for our family, friends, and trip sponsors. Then it was time to hit the road — a 2.5-hour drive to Makueni County, where we’ll be hosting our first pastoral Kingdom Conference.
Oh — and y’all remember the luggage that went missing?
Welp... they made it to Kenya! Yes… all 8 bags! Thanks to Pastor Sammy, who was able to pick it up from the airport for us. Listen, the enemy thought he could hinder the assignment, but as we know — the weapons may form, but they will not prosper!
JUNE 22 | KIAMBU, KENYA
Lord of the harvest
Missionary, Sonya Jiles, shares key takeaways from our Sunday service at CHITAM Ruiru, led by Rev. Purity Murungi.
Spoiler alert: The harvest is ready… and the time is now!
Special thanks to Pastor Bahati, his wife, Senior Pastor Rev. Antaka Mugeni, and First Lady Dr. Mugeni for their incredible hospitality and encouragement on our mission journey.
JUNE 19- JUNE 21 | HARTSFIELD-JACKSON INT AIPRORT- JFK AIRPORT- NAIROBI, KENYA
Welp… That Didn’t Go as Planned
Let’s just say — this missions trip didn’t exactly kick off the way we imagined.
We showed up at the airport early, bags checked, team on one accord, and full of excitement. We made it to our gate seamlessly and on time. Everything was smooth… until it wasn’t.
First, we were told there’d be a 5–10 minute delay. No big deal. We’ve waited longer than that at Chick-fil-A. Then that turned into 30 minutes, then 2.5 hours — all while sitting at the gate with the plane right in front of us. The issue? Air traffic delays in New York.
Instead of frustration, we turned to faith. At 3:25 PM – We prayed. Our prayer: “This didn’t catch You off guard, Lord. What are You about to do? What are You showing us?” By 3:45, we were notified that the flight would depart at 4:45pm instead of the 5:20pm. Hallelujah— this would allow us to at least land by the time the next flight was suppose to leave, but we had hope that AirFrance would hold the flight to allow us time to get on.
We finally boarded and took off. But the drama wasn’t done yet.
7:09 PM – We landed… but the gate was taken.
7:19 PM – Still no gate.
7:30 PM – Pilot says 10 more minutes.
7:51 PM – Two other planes were blocking us.
8:14 PM – We finally pulled in.
But by then, it was too late. We had officially missed our connecting flight.
So what do you do when 18 people are stranded in the airport, exhausted, and unsure of what’s next? You pivot — and watch God work… and sleep.
Our logistics team jumped into action. A group of 13 was rebooked on a direct flight to Kenya leaving at 1:45 PM on 6/20. The remaining 5 were set to fly at 7:10PM on 6/20 to Paris with a layover, then Kenya. Both teams were set to arrive in Kenya on 6/21 but at different times.
We made the best of the unexpected — and even slept in the terminal until around 5 AM. (Not ideal… tired, slightly frustrated, but our joy? Still intact.)
Then came Ms. Rose.
On 6/20 Deaconess L. Johnson and Pastor Shelley woke up the next morning to inquire about the Delta Sky Lounge. Now keep in mind that only a few of our team members had access to the Delta Sky Lounge. Long story short, Ms. Rose opened the doors of the Delta Sky Lounge for our entire team — for just $50! This mean our entire team had access to showers, food buffet, and comfortable seating to rest and sleep. But God wasn’t finished yet.
Ms. Rose was willing to aid use with our flight, with the goal of getting our team on the same flight. Ms.Rose put Evangelist Edmond in contact with the manager, but Evang. Edmond felt led not to handle the situation over the phone and insisted on speaking to him in person. Turns out — that manager was from Kenya. And guess what? He had exactly 7 seats left on a direct flight.
With favor and the grace of God — he got all 18 of us on that flight. Together. Hallelujahhhhhh!
After a missed flight, sleeping in the terminal, and 16+ hours in the air — we landed safely in Kenya.
Worn out? Yes.
But full of faith and ready to serve? Absolutely.
We want to say thank you — for every prayer, every seed sown, and every word of encouragement. What started off rough turned into a divine setup. God didn’t just get us there. He made it clear: He’s with us every step of the way.
JUNE 15 | THE HAND OF THE LORD INTERNATIONAL CHURCH
Sending service
Before we boarded our planes, we gathered in the presence of God.
Our Sending Service was a special time to celebrate what God is doing—both in Kenya and in us. We came together in unity, wearing our African attire, to praise, pray, and send off our missions team with love, support, and a spirit of expectation.
Watch the full video of us commissioning our goers here.
