2026 CLC Mission Helper Trip to East Africa

The 2026 Missionary Team in Kenya had a big day today! We spent the day in Kitale, doing outreach in the community, courtesy of Pastor Calvin Luvisha, the pastor at St. Peter's Evangelical Lutheran Church (a CLC church in Kitale). Today we visited one church and two schools - all three are not yet members of the CLC, but were keen to hear our message. First, we visited Bethel church (an independent Christian church not yet affiliated with the CLC). The drive was about 45 minutes away from where we stayed, and we picked up Pastor Luvisha along the way to accompany us. The building itself was small and made of the clay walls and corrugated metal roof that we've seen so often here, but that didn't stop them from blaring a speaker system in order to call in anyone from around the neighborhood to stop by to hear the gospel! Here, we did things a little differently than usual for our team - we split, so Pastor Tom could sit insid...

This post somehow was missed and I should have gone on the 15 th  about the 14th. Yesterday took us farther east into one of the most remote areas we have visited on this trip. It took nearly four hours just to reach the dirt road. From there, we traveled another hour, first along rough dirt roads and then completely off road across dry lake beds before finally arriving at the congregation where Pastor Israel serves. Standing at the site of the new church building, I couldn’t help but smile. Construction is moving slowly, but faithfully. It was another reminder that Christ continues to build His Church, often in places that most of the world will never see. The building may be simple, but the Gospel proclaimed there is the same Gospel that is preached throughout the world. One of the photos I am sharing today is of a small shelter belonging to a widow in the community. It is still waiting for a roof. The congregation has quietly taken on the work of helping care for widows like ...

Here are a few more pictures from yesterday at Matala Primary School and along the way. The day included joyful children, encouraging pastors, a quick lunch, good fellowship, and several memorable moments with the team. We were also blessed with a beautiful view of Mount Kilimanjaro , which made the day feel even more special. Each picture captures a small part of what the Lord has allowed us to experience here. We are grateful for the people we have met, the Gospel we have been able to share, and the joy that has filled these final days of the trip. In Christ, Jeff Radichel Tanzania Mission Helper Trip

Yesterday began with a drive to Matala Primary School  near Himo, where we were welcomed by approximately 260 students and 10 teachers . A number of district pastors also came to the school and watched as we presented. Their presence and enthusiasm were deeply encouraging. They saw the children listening, participating, and hearing about Jesus, and they were excited about the opportunity for this kind of ministry in their communities. By God’s grace, our presentations have become more natural as the days have gone on. Instead of thinking so much about what comes next, we are simply able to enjoy being with the children and sharing the message. One moment that made me smile happened before we even arrived. The vehicle was completely full, so Sarah ended up riding on my lap for part of the trip. We laughed along the way, and sometimes those unexpected moments become the memories we treasure most. Bruce always has a wonderful way of connecting with the children. His five finger il...