East-Central Africa Division Empowers Chaplains for Mission

The Seventh-day Adventist Church’s West Kenya Union Conference (WKUC) hosted the East-Central Africa Division (ECD) Clinical Pastoral Orientation for Chaplains September 5-7, in Kisumu, Kenya. Themed “Service to All with Commitment and Compassion,” the event united chaplains from various ECD unions to enhance their skills and strengthen regional support in their ministry.

WKUC president Samuel Misiani inaugurated the orientation event. Misiani emphasized the importance of chaplains being present for those they serve rather than merely providing answers. “You may not always receive public acclaim, but heaven rejoices in your dedication,” he told chaplains.

Misiani encouraged chaplains to embrace the challenges of their roles with steadfast commitment and to pursue continuous education. “Africans have a significant mission to undertake; therefore, accept the challenge and further your studies,” he urged.

Ivan Omana, General Conference chaplaincy director, emphasized the critical importance of continuing education in chaplaincy, particularly within the context of Adventist values. He opened his remarks by acknowledging the diverse challenges chaplains face in their ministries and underscored the urgent need for ongoing training and development to effectively navigate these complexities.

Omana also emphasized that true commitment to chaplaincy goes beyond fulfilling job responsibilities. “It demands a deep dedication to lifelong learning,” he said. He also noted that the evolving nature of society and complex human needs require chaplains to be equipped with both knowledge and practical skills. “This commitment to education involves integrating knowledge into meaningful action, reflecting the wholistic approach of the Adventist faith,” he said.

Organized by ECD chaplaincy director Samuel Mwebaza and hosted by Nicodemus Onyango, WKUC chaplaincy director, the event aimed to enhance the skills of practicing chaplains. Attendees included chaplains not only from WKUC but also from the Burundi Union Mission, East Kenya Union Conference, North East Congo Union Mission, Rwanda Union Mission, and Uganda Union Mission.

Mwebaza highlighted the vital role chaplains play in supporting individuals during difficult times and called for increased public support. “Church leadership and members need to recognize and uplift chaplains through prayer and practical assistance,” he said. Mwebaza also shared some of the challenges chaplains encounter when they lack the resources to address the material and emotional needs of those they serve in schools, prisons, hospitals, and other institutions.

Participants left the orientation inspired and equipped with new insights and skills, ready to serve their communities with renewed dedication, according to organizers. “They are now prepared to tackle the challenges of their roles, embodying the Adventist values of service, compassion, and unwavering commitment in their essential ministry of chaplaincy,” they explained. “Through their work, they contribute to the wholistic well-being of individuals and communities, fulfilling the call of Adventist mission.”