Merry Christmas to you all….as NCCK General Secretary greets staff during the luncheon held ar Jumuia Place Nairobi
The National Council of Churches of Kenya staff have taken a 3-week Christmas break, with the General Secretary Reverend Canon Peter Karanja assuring them of better tidings in the new year of 2019.
While appreciating their selfless service that saw the Council achieve great milestones this year, Canon Karanja also underscored NCCK’s contribution in Kenya’s socio-political arena, that largely translated to the current peace and tranquility among communities, following last year’s extra ordinary electioneering period. In his address that was heavily punctuated by biblical verses on the true meaning of Christmas, Canon Karanja called on the NCCK staff to focus on their spiritual growth and understanding.
He added that: “These things around spirituality are quite deep. Most people when they testify, can pick a line and tell you this was my turning point. I want to encourage you as you go for Christmas to open your hearts and ask God to speak to you.”
He was speaking at Jumuia Place in Nairobi, during the end of the year staff luncheon that was also attended by his deputy Dr. Nelson Makanda.
The NCCK General Secretary cited the completion of construction works at Jumuia Hospitals Huruma-the Council’s largest health facility to date-as one of the greatest achievements of the Council this year. “We have a good outlook for 2019. We look forward to the grand opening of Jumuia Hospital Huruma in the first quarter,” said Canon Karanja.
Canon Karanja, whose second and final constitutional term of 6 years ends in September next year, also reflected on his personal gains, at the same time casting the eye into the future. “2018 was interesting for me. This is the year I had consolidation as a grandfather. It is lovely to see small children running around in my house frequently, because all my children are out of my home. And when they come to my place, they create a lovely mess. That aside, I wish to remind you of my imminent transition is on course. If you know somebody good somewhere, please ask them to polish their CVs in anticipation of the vacancy announcement. Please pray for the process so that the Lord may lead to take over the person of His choice,” said Canon Karanja
A hug for a sister…and a brother….NCCK staff take a break to celebrate Christmas and new year festivities
Staff who spoke also recounted their achievements this year especially at family level, with Grace Muthungu (Senior Programmes Officer for Capacity Building for Membership echoing Canon Karanja’s sentiments. “The Lord has been faithful to me and my family. I am now a mother-in-law. These are seasons of life. Those who have young children please enjoy with them, because time will come when they will not be there with you,” she observed.
For Sam Kingi and Ken Ogallo, the reality of being young fathers was still a phenomenon. “My highlights for this year is being a father for the first time. My wife experienced a lot of challenges carrying the pregnancy, but at the end it was quite smooth. We thank God for His faithfulness. I am still not sure that I am someone’s dad, it takes time to sink,” revealed Sam Kingi, who works as the Programs Officer for Governance.
“I thank God for this far. I am now a father of two unlike Kingi. And just like marriage, it takes time to sink. We are now celebrating our second born. I think we should stop,” said Ogallo amid laughter from the rest of the team.
Forever we shall rejoice…..NCCK staff praising the Lord during the luncheon
The NCCK staff, save for essential services and those with authorized activities to close, will be on holiday until 7th of January 2019, when they are expected to resume duty after ushering in the new year.
Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2019!
