::I.C.O.C EASTERN AFRICAN CHURCHES::

ODE TO THE SINGLES: CELEBRATING VALENTINE IN AFRICAN STYLE
Nairobi, Kenya

POSTED ON 17 March 2010

Story by: A Valentine LaMar, Austine Oduor and Francis Oloo

“Having loved his own who were in the world, he now showed them the full extent of his love.” (John 13:1c) A portrait of a lowly servant, Jesus Christ, washed disciples’ feet and expressed by his act, enduring love, and by his words, a challenge to follow the example of humility and service (John 13:14,15).

And so on a day when the world celebrated the annual holiday of Valentine’s with flowers, confectionery, and greeting cards to express love and affection, especially between intimate companions, the professionals (singles) ministry of Central super-region in Nairobi ICOC converged on the lush vast grasslands of Kitengela to celebrate not just love but life in Christ as well.

The enchanting Valentine’s was celebrated at the home of Dr. James Kulubi in Olooitikosh near the Maasai Ostrich Farm in Kitengela, some 45 Km South of Nairobi, Kenya.

The singles arrived at the venue mid-morning showing elegance in resplendent African dress. The camaraderie and pageantry on display became reminiscent of the robust fellowship of the first century disciples (Acts 2:44).

The weather was wonderful; a deceptively clouded sky coupled with pleasantly windy condition smothered the characteristic strength of the tropical sun thus providing the much needed cooling atmosphere conducive for an explosive outdoor church service, enjoyment of fellowship, and fun.

“The atmosphere was magnificent!” said Garrett Akinyi. A brother, Silas, concurred with her stating, “God brought us together to celebrate love. His unceasing love as experienced and practiced by all believers should apply forgiveness for one another.”

The food and drink was in plenty. So as appetizer, refreshments were served before embarking on the special Sunday service. The service was held under a large tent decorated with red and white drapes enriched with big balloons of the same colors.

During the service, song leaders kept the disciples dancing with the melodious tunes of several popular African gospel songs. Silas Otieno’s sobering communion message took a sharp focus on the subject of love and its application towards forgiveness.

On his part, the professionals’ ministry leader, Charles Omolo, delivered a sermon aptly titled, “The fullest extent of love”. His class, based on the Bible book of John 13:1-17, exhorted the congregation to practice the same kind of love of service to others as Christ did.

Further, he taught that true greatness (v.16) emanated from humble service, and that true happiness (blessedness v.17) is derived from being faithful to the example He has set for us to follow, that of receiving His washing of feet and washing feet for one another!

“Christ’s pattern of service and humility reinforces our concept of His love for us and our love for one another,” expressed Cynthia Uwera, a sister visiting from Rwanda. “Our love as brothers and sisters should influence our world tremendously,” remarked Alex Siema.

These powerful truths provided a spirited backdrop for the singles to donate money towards the Haiti disaster relief efforts after the tiny impoverished Caribbean nation was devastated by a powerful earthquake on January 12. The disciples in the capital Port-au-prince were greatly affected by the devastation which killed more than 200,000 people.

After the service, there were presentations of song by our brother and host, Patrick Kulubi, and Lady Chisuna, a friend visiting with us; fun Bible trivia; and, motivational sharing by Timothy Amwayi and Lillian Anyango.

Timothy, a disciple for 12 years, shared his joy in serving the Lord in spite of lacking employment for many years! “I can’t recall the last time I was late for church!” he affirmed in full conviction amidst warm applause. Lillian, on the other hand, having been faithful for 19 years, sought to encourage her listeners to “give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because… your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” 1Cor.15:58

These activities having worked up a craving for food, our own sister Janet Amani, served sumptuous lunch which contained a menu of mashed potatoes, chapattis, beef, and chicken stew… to mention but a few dishes! It was good and so pleasant to see brothers (and sisters) live, in this case eat, together in unity just like the Psalmist would put it!

Later after being fully sated, they participated in a treasure hunt! It was a humorous spectacle to follow as singles scurried madly within a section of Dr. Kulubi’s compound to find confectionery, flowers and a teddy bear! The joy on the faces of the new owners of the treasure trove was all too evident for all to see going by the security provided to their items.

Some singles who are dating like Sirengo and Irene and, Stanley and Sylvia gave Saint Valentine a proper fete by exchanging gifts to express their love for each other. It was clear at the end that Valentine’s Day had been a great success; new friendships forged, new lessons learnt, and the theme of the retreat, “Pamoja” (Swahili word for togetherness or unity) rung home.

“Our collective attitude should be inclined towards learning and thriving together,” declared Cynthia Uwera. Zacchaeus Odiyo agreed adding, “I encourage all the singles to attend future events because these provide platforms for great learning and fellowship. The number of singles who attended the event organized by the Bible talk leaders’ were120.

For the singles to build on the lessons of the Valentine’s event, then it’s imperative, this year, to take on an attitude which is defined by unity! So that whenever there’s an opportunity to come together, the singles show up in great numbers. This attitude of unity turns strangers into friendships. It turns events into celebrations. It creates a new vision for tomorrow! And, to God be eternal glory!!