August 2012 School Update by Paul Njuguna, DPTC Director

The August school was a very unique session like no other. The students participated in sessions on Inductive Bible Study taught by long time missionary and recognized expert in the field, Eric Miller.  They also received training in Conflict Resolution and Management taught by Dr. John Brown Okwii. Dr. Okwii has a Ph.D in Theology and Conflict Management Studies. He is the president of LAWNA Theological Seminary Jos, Nigeria, and also chair of Conflict Management Studies.

Eric came over and stayed in Tent 1. His class was inductive bible study focusing on Mark II which was from the gospel of Mark from chapter 8 to the end. I was able to sit in class for a few sessions and there was nothing greater than watching the students dig deeper into the scriptures making connections and interpretations. I can tell they have now mastered the skills of Observation, Interpretation and Application in the study of the Word of God. They were taught to engage with biblical text first before rushing to commentaries and with such limited resources as the students have, what else can we place in their hands more beneficial than these Bible Study Skills.

When the class came to an end on Saturday, the students were all short of words to express their gratitude to their teacher Eric for the quality time spent together. They did it in a gift to Eric to make one more of his now traditional African shirts.

After working nonstop trying to make sure John got to Camp Chemi Chemi for the August school, he finally got there on early Monday morning, actually 3am. He got into his tent at 5am and I think he just refreshed himself for the 8.30am class. This man has a very busy schedule and it was a great privilege to have him consider DPTC which he considers “our school.” After this place he flies to USA for classes at Florida International University. As usual John brings a unique flavor into DPTC. He has such a way of connecting with students; you won’t believe they start pouring out their hearts from the word go. Since Monday, when John is not in class, this place has been like a clinic. All lining up to get the Professor’s ears. What a blessing he is!!

His topic is coming at a very crucial time when Kenya is headed to the General elections. John has already reignited passionate prayers for our country and the role of pastors as agents of peace in their communities. Our pastors are drawing from his experiencing at Jos, Nigeria where there is a huge conflict between the Christians and Muslims.