"Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers." Galatians 6:10

While much of the international community recently focused on the image and name of former UN Secretary-General Koffi Anan in bringing hope to the Kenyan nation, there were others, who may not have made the headlines, who helped bring healing to the Kenyan congregation.

Disciples from across South Africa and America responded to the gory violence that shook Kenya in December, January and February and the desperate needs it created among the disciples. As the situation in Kenya spiraled out of control in an orgy of bloodletting and destruction during those months, Kenyan disciples had their homes burnt, property looted and livestock killed. Some were sacked from work because their tribe. Others lost a means to earn a living as “normal life” was severely disrupted. Many joined the ranks of Kenyans thousands of Internally Displaced Persons. And many of these included women, children and the ailing. To complicate this, the cost of basic goods rose sharply as sections the food supply across the country went up in smoke.

That is where brothers and sisters from America and South Africa stepped in. They supplemented the donations that had been made by Kenyan disciples and sent money that has been used to acquire relief food (pictures show distiburion of food to the affected), buy school uniforms and help disciples re-start their small-scale businesses. Without this, it is difficult to see how the most affected disciples would have managed through the crisis. Disciples in America have truly been friends in need. Almost $ 16,000 was sent to Kenya and is helping disciples in 5 towns.

On behalf of all disciples who are being aided—and indeed on behalf of all Christians in East Africa—the icoceastafricachurches.org website salutes and extends heartfelt gratitude to the church across the globe for the love you have shown through your donations and prayers.

The bloodletting has ceased, the political crisis seems to be have been averted and great joy pervades the breadth of the country. But scars remain, suspicions persist along ethnic lines, and many still face a great struggle in restoring their homes, livelihoods and lives. Please continue to offer supplication for a hurting nation and a brave congregation.

Click here for previous articles on the Kenyan crisis.