✨ A New Journey Begins: PLI Launches Its Next Cohort in Kenya
A new and exciting chapter has begun! The Pastoral Leadership Institute (PLI) has officially launched its next three-year cohort—an immersive, transformational program designed to equip pastors and ministry leaders with rich biblical foundations, practical ministry tools, and gospel-centered leadership skills.
From October 24th to November 2nd, a team of seven ministers from Living Word Fellowship and Power Walk Ministries USA traveled to Kenya to facilitate the first-year sessions. Their arrival followed a major milestone in the region—the joyful graduation of the Rwanda PLI cohort in October 2024, celebrated during the inauguration of the THIU Conference Centre in Musanze.
Led by Dr. Paul Cannings, USA Board Member, the team included Pastor Keith Treadwell, Valarie Miller, Keron Brown, Terry Randle, Jean Joseph, and Sandra Phillips. For five days, these passionate facilitators poured into Kenyan pastors through six intensive training tracks: Bible, Theology, Pastoral Leadership, Counseling, Character Development, and more.
The conference took place at Father’s House Family Church (FHFC) in Ruiru, drawing 63 pastors eager to grow in faithful and effective ministry. While most attendees came from the greater Ruiru area, eleven traveled from Bungoma in Western Kenya, where TLAfrica previously ran a similar long-term training program for over a decade. Many participants were part of the vibrant Ruiru Ministers Network, a fellowship of more than 150 pastors who regularly support one another through prayer, fellowship, financial help, and ministry accountability.
What Pastors Are Saying: Testimonies of Impact
“A revelation of Scripture.” — Pastor Waweru
“I was deeply challenged by our Bibliology teacher’s faith and character. He is like a ‘walking Bible,’ grounding everything in Scripture. The class helped us see the strong connection between the Old and New Testaments—something we often miss in African culture. Now I can clearly show from the New Testament that Jesus is the promised Son of God who fulfills the Old Testament.”
“Counseling through God’s Word.” — Pastor Gakenia
“Although I studied Counseling Psychology, the PLI Biblical Counseling class showed me something deeper: every issue begins in the heart, and the Bible offers true solutions. From now on, I will base my counseling entirely on God’s Word.”
“God’s Word first.” — Pastor Karanja
“The biggest shift for me is realizing that everything must be approached through the Word of God. My logic and reasoning used to come first, but now, I’m committed to submitting everything— including my own thoughts—under Scripture.”
“Learning to listen.” — Pastor Martin Indakwa
“As pastors, we sometimes rush to pray for people without truly listening. The PLI counseling class taught us how to ask better questions and understand people’s struggles before offering answers. This will transform the way I shepherd my congregation.”
A Strong Start to a Transformational Program
The launch of this new PLI class marks more than the beginning of a training program—it marks the strengthening of the church in Kenya. As these pastors grow in biblical depth, gospel clarity, and shepherding wisdom, the ripple effects will echo through congregations, communities, and generations.
The journey has just begun—and the impact is already unmistakable.
