More than 300 individuals experienced the transformative power of Christ’s love and message when a MAF plane touched down on a remote airstrip.
Aboard the aircraft were dedicated veterinary doctors on a unique mission – to merge veterinary camps with the proclamation of the Gospel. The four-day veterinary camp yielded remarkable outcomes in the lives of the Olorte community, particularly among the often-reserved Maasai men, who had been reluctant to engage with the church.
Rev Malano Saiguran, the visionary behind Overflowing Life Ministries, warmly embraced the veterinary doctors with hospitality, extending his gratitude to MAF for providing air transport that triumphed over geographical barriers.
Deep appreciation is also owed to MAF for enabling the missionaries’ access to the Olorte area via air transport. This region’s geographical challenges would demand over seven hours of travel by road, a stark contrast to the mere 30-minute journey by air.
— Rev Malano Saiguran
“It brings me great honour to host the missionary veterinary doctors, in partnership with Veterinarians with a Mission Program (VMP) headed by Dr Mandieka. Their presence has bestowed blessings upon the Olorte community, spreading the word of God and caring for our animals,” expressed Rev Malano.
The Maasai men’s strong attachment to their cattle traditionally posed challenges in drawing them to the church. However, the mission’s focus on livestock services played a pivotal role in bridging this gap and facilitating their connection.
Mr Malano additionally affirmed his commitment to nurturing the men who have embraced Christ, ensuring their transformation into devoted disciples.
The team of twenty veterinarians efficiently split into two groups, with each group assigned to a separate workstation every morning. The day’s proceedings commenced with the veterinary doctors sharing and teaching the word of God and engaging in prayer. The involvement of local interpreters was instrumental in bridging the language gap, facilitating heartfelt prayers that resonated with many men, and leading them to embrace Christianity.
In close collaboration with local pastors, those Maasai men who embraced Christ were thoughtfully connected with pastors responsible for guiding them through their spiritual journey. This strategic partnership ensured that their newfound faith was nurtured and developed.
As the sun set, the group of veterinary doctors extended their outreach by visiting neighbouring schools. Their purpose was twofold: to impart the teachings of God and to offer small tokens of appreciation, such as footballs inscribed with the phrase ‘Enkinyor Enkai’, conveying the message ‘God loves you’ in the Maasai language.
Dr Mandieka, the founding member of the Veterinarians with a Mission Programme, present at the camp shared his reflections: “During the four days, we have immersed ourselves in supporting the community through livestock care and evangelism. In our interactions with the men, many have found their way to the Lord. We feel privileged to leave them in the capable hands of pastors, who will continue to guide them in their spiritual journey. God willing, the veterinary teams look forward to making a return mission in 2024.”
The collective effort of these individuals, under the guidance of faith, has undeniably created a profound impact within the Olorte community, touching lives both through spiritual enlightenment and practical support. 1 Peter 4:10.
Story by Jacqueline Mwende
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