The violence and rioting as a result of the frustration over the presidential elections continues to ebb and flow across Kenya, reaching the edge of the Kima International School of Theology (KIST). U.S. State Department spokesman Sean McCormack is widely quoted as saying that Kenya has "gone from bad to worse, in terms of the violence.”

Dr. Don Smith, KIST principal and his wife Chris met Tuesday with Church of God Ministries staff to discuss the current challenges faced by the people of Kenya and provided an update on the impact of the violence on KIST.

Smith said the start of the spring term was delayed two weeks as a result of the violence and turmoil. Classes resumed on January 21. He said, “Classes are functioning normally in an abnormal setting.”

Smith spoke by telephone to the school’s deputy principal, Dr. Moses Alela, on Tuesday morning. Alela informed him that rioting and demonstrations were occurring just outside the compound and that gunfire could be heard throughout the night. But Alela also said that in spite of the tensions outside, there was a sense of peace among the students, faculty, and staff at KIST.

The nation and people of Kenya are in need of prayer. Please pray

• for the restoration of peace and unity within the country.
• for the safety of our missionaries, national leaders, and Christians in the country.
• that there will be restraint by both the opposition party and the governing party.
• that justice will prevail.
• for the safety for those who have been innocently caught in the fighting.
• for the provision of adequate food for the poor people.

The Smiths left Kenya on January 14 as part of a previously scheduled trip to visit supporting congregations and attend other planned meetings in the United States. They plan to return to Kenya in late March.

Missionary nurse Rebecca Pierce is serving at the KIST compound and would benefit from the blessings of prayer for her safety and ministry.

You can learn more about KIST and the Smiths by clicking here.