Comboni Lay Missionaries

Welcoming Giulia to Kenya.

Giulia julio 2025

The Comboni Lay Missionary community in Kenya recently welcomed Giulia, a missionary from Italy, who arrived on June 23rd to begin her journey in Kenya. A group of enthusiastic Comboni Lay Missionaries gathered at the airport to greet her, filled with anticipation and heartfelt greetings.

Our Kenya community is growing, and we’re happy to receive new members like Giulia. Together, we’ll work towards creating a more just and compassionate society, inspired by the Comboni charism.

We extend a warm welcome to Giulia as she embarks on this new chapter in Kenya. We’re confident that her dedication and compassion will shine brightly as she serves alongside us.

Giulia julio 2025

CLM Kenya

Journeying Together in Mission: CLM Conflict Resolution Workshop

LMC Kenia

From the 13th to 15th of June, the CLM candidates of Kenya came together in unity and faith to deepen our understanding of conflict resolution. Guided by our motto, “Save Africa for Africa”, we gathered in Meru, Nairobi, and Kitelakapel, as members of one family – all connecting either in person or online, with a shared purpose of growth and transformation.

This important meeting was not just a routine workshop. It was a space of learning, reflection, and renewal of our commitment to the mission founded by St. Daniel Comboni, whose spirit still burns strong in each of us.

Teachings on Conflict and Its Resolution:

The session began with a rich and insightful lecture on Conflict Resolution by Linda from Kitelakapel. We explored the definition of conflict resolution, the characteristics and importance of conflict, and its three main aspects: cognitive, emotional, and behavioural. Linda also guided us through the steps involved in resolving conflict in a constructive and Christian manner. We also reflected on different styles of handling conflict: Compromising – Avoiding – Accommodating – Competing – Collaborating. Each style brought out how different personalities approach conflict, and how we can all learn to adapt and apply healthier methods in the mission context. We were reminded that conflict is not the absence of love, but rather an opportunity to grow, understand each other better, and strengthen our bonds.

Contributions from Fr. Sylvester, Alberto and fr. Maciek:

Fr. Sylvester followed with a lecture that connected conflict to our missionary life, drawing examples from the life of St. Daniel Comboni, our patron. He reminded us how Comboni navigated cultural tensions, resisted opposition to his vision, and continually sought reconciliation among divided groups in his mission. This showed us how to resolutely address conflict with compassion and clarity, guided by our faith and the teachings of Christ. Fr. Sylvester’s words emphasized that peaceful resolution begins from within, with prayer and humility.

Alberto gave us a practical and much-needed talk on handling conflict without drama or chaos. He reminded us that being missionaries means being ambassadors of peace, not just through words but through actions. He encouraged us to always aim for maturity, calm, and understanding in times of disagreement.

It was a thought-provoking lecture, which emphasized that conflict is a normal part of life. He encouraged us to establish principles for resolving conflicts before they arise. He also introduced us to a practical tool called STABEN, which breaks down conflict resolution into:

– S – Source

– T – Time and place

– A – Amicable approach

– B – Behaviour

– E – Emotion

– N – Need

Lastly, Fr. Maciek led a recap session on Lectio Divina, reminding us how to properly prepare ourselves—spiritually and mentally—before engaging with the Word of God. It was a call to deepen our relationship with Scripture as a regular part of our formation.

Moment of sharing:

We concluded with individual reflections, where each participant shared what they had learned, enjoyed, and taken to heart during the session.

New Beginnings

A very exciting highlight of this meeting was the Meru group welcoming four new members. These newcomers, after engaging fully in the sessions, expressed their joy and eagerness to become part of our mission. They have officially become candidates of CLM, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to journey with them. Their enthusiasm and openness brought new energy and hope, reminding us that our mission is growing, and the seed planted by St. Daniel Comboni continues to bear fruit.

And there is more! In Nairobi, we were delighted to welcome, as well, two new candidates to the Comboni family. Their joy and enthusiasm added a special touch to the session, and they expressed how meaningful and welcoming the formation experience was for them.

Participant Reflections:

“I really feel comfortable and I’m ready on this journey and I really love your bonding and hospitality.” – Eliphus, new candidate, Meru

“I thank God for connecting me with this group.” – Getrude, Meru

They joined CLM because they want to dedicate their lives in serving God and do acts of charity.

Looking Forward

CLM Kenya

As we concluded our sessions, we left feeling empowered, not only with knowledge but with a renewed sense of commitment to walk this path together. The weekend was a beautiful reminder that growth comes through honest conversations, listening with love, and facing conflict head-on with grace and faith. It was fruitful, enriching, and continued to equip us with essential tools as we journey forward in our missionary vocation. We look forward to more moments of learning, bonding, and deepening our mission. Together, we continue to Save Africa for Africa – in peace, in unity, and with hearts full of hope.

Yvonne Kilemi and Daniel Gaithuru

The importance of communication

LMC Kenia

We are grateful for the wonderful meeting we had together as CLM members, we had an amazing and fruitful weekend together.

We interacted, bonded and shared responsibilities together creating one community

Our formation sessions were based on the topic of communication.

Communication is a vital component of our living as missionaries for in this we are able to reach those we are called to serve

We learn from our Lord Jesus how He communicated the message of the Kingdom of God.

With his messages he spoke to the hearts of people bringing them close to God, He spoke the truth without fear even of death, John 5:18-47

Christ knew and understood his audience he used different strategies to pass on his messages to people and separately to his disciples

He used parables, stories silence etc. to pass on information.

Many instances he gave people chance to express their perspective, Mark 10:51

As we read the letters, articles and magazine written by saint Daniel Comboni we understand his passion for the mission.

This encourages us to use the tool of communication appropriately in our missionary lives to spread the gospel to far ends and to coming generations

With effective communication we bridge the human connection creating healthy relationships and building our communities and also the local communities that we serve.

Belinda Awino CLM

Empty yourself before the Lord

LMC Kenia

Belinda, CLM Kenya, shares with us her reflections after the spiritual exercises she has done in her preparation for the mission.

Empty yourself of all your responsibilities, thoughts and burdens that may cause disruption, create space in you for concentration in the things of God (reading of the word, prayer).

Listen attentively to the Holy Spirit (his guidance, teaching and direction)

Allow the Lord to be in control of everything, surrender yourself fully to Him.

Quite your spirit and your soul becoming aware that you are placing yourself in the presence of God in a special way.

Allow the Holy Spirit to lead you closer to the Father.

Be open to receive his graces, do not figure out things for yourself let the Holy Spirit pray through you.

Be patient, be still and know that he is God and He makes things beautiful at His own time.

Be obedient to his will so that he may bestow his graces upon you. As Christ was obedient to the will of our Father in heaven unto death and was glorified.

Let the Holy Spirit immerse you in the love of Christ and show you His mercies that know no bound, His forgiveness, His power and majesty and His kingdom that is forever and ever. Psalms 103

The Good Shepherd – John 10:1-42

The Lord desires to have an intimate relationship with all his children. He reminded me that He is the good shepherd those who belong to his flock know Him and can distinguish between His voice and the voice of the enemy (false teachings, doctrines and compromise).

Christ is the good shepherd, He Lays down His life for our salvation, He will not allow us to go astray, but brings those who are lost back to God our Father.

He knows our sinful nature and calls us to repentance in order to be renewed and returned back to His flock.

Heaven rejoices whenever we are reconciled to Christ through repentance. Luke 15:1-7

Christ The True Vine-John 15:1-17

As lay missionaries our source of life is Christ. He nourishes our spirits and we are able to bear good fruits amongst those He sends us to serve.

If we forget He who sent us, forsake him and drift away from Him, we have no life and we can never bear good fruits, no amount of effort or resources we give to others without Christ is empty.

John 15:5 “I am the vine, you are the branches, whoever remains in me and i in him will bear much fruits because without me you can do nothing”.

Christ reminds us that those who love Him truly are obedient and keeps His commandments.

He loves us dearly, He instruct us to remain in His love.

Love one another for it is in love that we are able to serve others.

Christ is the one who chooses us, He sends us to spread his love to his people and in love whatever we ask in his name we shall be given

Serve One Another -John 13 :1-15

With humility Christ being the son of God washed his disciples’ feet, He taught us that nobody is greater or lesser than the other, we ought to serve one another.

Philippians 2:2-3

Do not do anything in pride or jealousy, be one in love, mind and heart with humility of Christ value others above yourself.

Christ has forgiven us we ought to do the same to others, put on love peace of Christ.

Always be thankful.

In God’s company there is no fear

As Comboni Lay Missionaries we are called to serve God’s people, He who called us is the one who sends us and is the one who goes before us and is the one who goes with us, when we fix our eyes on him, we don’t lose direction.

Colossians 3:11 Christ is all and in all

Through his persecution, death and resurrection.

In Him we have strength to face death, temptations, persecution and all the troubles that life in the mission may offer for he will always be with us.

Isaiah 43:1

Fear not for I have redeemed you I have called you by name, you are mine.

When you pass through the water, I will be with you.

In the rivers you shall not drawn.

When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned the flames shall not consume you.

TAKE LORD

Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding, and my entire will. All I have and call my own, You have given all to me. To, you, Lord, i return it. Everything is yours; do with it what you will. Give me only your love and your grace, that is enough for me. Amen

Belinda Awino, CLM Kenya

Finding Myself in Mission: My Enneagram Journey with the Comboni Lay Missionaries

LMC Kenia

I had the privilege of attending an enriching Enneagram workshop organized by the Comboni Lay Missionaries in Nairobi. The Enneagram is a system of classifying personality type, which can help someone better understand themselves and how to relate to others. The workshop brought together around 20 vibrant and diverse participants, both CLM members and candidates. All eager to grow in self-awareness and community spirit.

Our sessions were animated by the ever-energetic Lorna Tumbo, whose warmth and enthusiasm lit up every moment. Her passion and deep understanding of the Enneagram created an engaging, reflective, and at times, emotional learning environment. Everyone was truly impressed and inspired by her facilitation.

We shared stories, laughed together, reflected deeply, and built meaningful connections. It was not just a workshop, it was a heartfelt journey of transformation and discovery.

I joined the Comboni Lay Missionaries in February, and so far, my experience has been incredibly fulfilling. I feel part of a mission-driven family that values faith, service, and personal growth.

One of the highlights for me was discovering my Enneagram personality type. I came to know myself as a Type 6 – The Loyalist. This insight helped me understand my core motivations, fears, and how I respond to the world. It’s a discovery that is already helping me become more intentional in how I live, serve, and relate with others.

This workshop reminded me that mission starts within, with knowing and loving ourselves. I’m grateful for the opportunity, and I look forward to continuing this journey of faith and transformation.

By Michaela Cheptoo