Ministry to the “Least of These” During Covid-19
"If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food, and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?"
James 2:15, ESV
What does it mean to do good to those most in need during Covid-19? I hope you are inspired by Apollo's story below to see how you are making a difference. Without support from you, many like Apollo would not have the opportunity for a Christ-centered university education at Daystar. Apollo is putting his faith into action to serve those living in very difficult situations. We are so thankful for you all who make this transformation possible for students like Apollo!
Blessings,
Alan
From Apollo’s graduation day in June 2017.
My name is Apollo Oduor Odanga. I am the fourth born in a family of three girls and two boys. Born on 19th July 1993, I was brought up by a single mother in my rural home. Our father passed on in August 1998. I came to Nairobi’s Kibera slums in January 2004 and have lived and studied while living in the slums since then. I am a born again Christian. My home church is called Cathedral of Praise Ministries International- Restoration Chapel, Kibera. I serve in the youth ministry, intercessory and interpretation.
I came to Daystar through a merit based scholarship, joining in August 2013. My choice of Daystar was guided by the institutions Christian background and the good reputation it has in the market. The support I received from the financial aid officer, Mrs. Jennifer Kinoti, and my lecturers at the Nursing department really helped me through school. My special thanks go to Mrs. Kinoti for her constant encouragements and guidance even when things seemed very tough for me.
Sometimes I thought if I weren’t at Daystar then I wouldn’t have made it through college. Nursing school can be really tough at times and the journey can seem too long. The chapel session and Bible study sessions really came in handy in dealing with some personal and academic problems. Nuru Counseling Center was also of great use to me. I also really appreciated the friendships I made at Daystar Christian Fellowship (DCF). Work study placements made me the opportunity to be in service directly to the daystar community. It was a great honor getting an opportunity to give back to this wonderful community.
For the first time I had no parent/guardian watching over for me. This called for a lot of self-discipline. One thing that I take away with me from Daystar is the concept of the equality of all men. Once I entered the school, we all formed one united common community. Everybody felt welcome and at home. Daystar belonged to us all.
I am forever grateful to God for using you to help me achieve my dream. Indeed you are a blessing. I pray that God continues to use you to raise other world changers like myself. Your contribution to the change process in this world is immeasurable. Receive special thanks from my own mother, Enerika Maiya Odanga. Mama says: “Ero kamano ahinya.” (“Thank you so much” in my native language Dholuo).
