Dr. Scott Winnail: God’s Church in Western Kenya and Uganda
Author: David Markopoulos | Living Education
These summaries are written to give our audience an idea of the special forum messages our students have access to as part of the Living Education-Charlotte program.
Dr. Scott Winnail, a longtime minister, serves as the Assistant Regional Director over the United Kingdom, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Although originally from the United States, he currently lives near and serves at the Church’s regional office at Kettering, UK. In his recent forum message, Dr. Winnail gave the students a glimpse into his recent travels to the heart of Africa to visit the Church there.
Tend and Keep the Flock
Jesus told Peter in John 21:15-17 to “feed My lambs,” “tend My sheep,” and “feed My sheep.” The Church of God today has a responsibility to serve and look out for all its members, including those in remote areas. Dr. Winnail led the students on a journey to some of those remote areas, starting in Nairobi, Kenya.
Recounting the history of Kenya, Dr. Winnail remarked that it is the wealthiest nation in east Africa. It was a British colony from 1898 to 1963, and has been a major trade hub in the region for years, exporting coffee and tea. There are over 60 languages spoken in Kenya, including English and Swahili. However, despite its rich history and diversity, Kenya is afflicted by poverty and crime in its major cities. We have faithful members across Kenya who benefit greatly from visits by Dr. Winnail and Regional Director Mr. Peter Nathan.
The Church in Kenya
Dr. Winnail related his visit to the western region of Kenya after the Days of Unleavened Bread, where over 400 members are served by seven deacons, six elders, and three pastors. In Kendu Bay—where the Living Church of God observes the Feast of Tabernacles each year—there are around 30 members. The Feast draws around 250 attendees to this location.
Dr. Winnail mentioned the challenges faced by many members, including frequent imprisonment. Many citizens often face prison time despite being innocent, but God’s hand is still evident in these situations. Dr. Winnail noted that many prisoners are subscribers to Tomorrow’s World, and that the Gospel has been brought even into prisons in remote areas. He also mentioned our camp in Kenya is on average the largest camp that the Church hosts in the world.
Uganda and Back to Kenya
Dr. Winnail also talked about his travels to Uganda, where members face difficulties. These members also benefit greatly from being visited by Dr. Winnail and Mr. Nathan, whose leadership greatly stabilizes the Church in these remote regions. Traveling back to Kenya, a leadership meeting was held for deacons and elders in order to assist and strengthen them in their duties.
Lessons from East Africa
Dr. Winnail described how vast areas of this region are densely populated, and many members face great difficulties. They are dependent on rain, and many have been called to the truth within walking distance of one another. God has blessed and is growing His Church in east Africa, and He calls people everywhere. As the flock in this part of the world continues to grow, we must remember to always pray for our brethren everywhere.
David Markopoulos is a Living Education alumnus from the 2023-2025 school years. Originally hailing from Chicago, he currently works for the Living Education program.
