Atir Outreach

Isaiah 58: 6. Isn’t this the fast that I have chosen: to break the chains of wickedness, to untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and tear off every yoke? 7. Isn’t it to share your bread with the hungry, to bring the poor and homeless into your home, to clothe the naked when you see him, and not to turn away from your own flesh and blood?

As believers we are called to action by our Lord Jesus, we have a mandate to share the Good News with all the people.

Nestled within the rugged expanse of Isiolo County in the northern part of Kenya, approximately 20km from Isiolo town, lies Atir, an area that hosts a community teeming with resilience and hope, yet burdened by the weight of socio-economic challenges. This semi-arid region, predominantly inhabited by the Turkana people, bears witness to the harsh realities of life in a land marked by sparse vegetation and limited resources.

During the day the temperatures tend to be high while low in the evenings. The major means of transport is motorbikes (boda-boda), hired Land cruisers, or matatu (mini-bus). The terrain is quite rough and bumpy but as a consolation, one gets to enjoy views not often found in the city. Wildlife roam freely and can be seen either crossing the road or grazing on the scarce grass or acacia trees along the roadside.

Illiteracy looms large, casting a shadow over the aspirations of young minds yearning for knowledge and opportunity. Early marriages also cast a dark cloud over the lives of young girls, robbing them of their childhoods and relegating them to a life of domestic servitude. Forced into unions at a tender age, these girls are denied the chance to pursue their dreams and aspirations, perpetuating a cycle of gender inequality and disempowerment.

A group of dedicated individuals, students of Live School, have set their sights on Atir, driven by a fervent desire to make a difference and share the transformative power of the gospel with the Turkana people. In pursuit of their mission, the students of Live School have outlined clear objectives aimed at maximizing their impact and fostering meaningful engagement with the community of Atir in Isolo County.

First and foremost, the students are committed to conducting comprehensive community research to gain a deeper understanding of life in Atir. This research will encompass various aspects of community life, including socio-economic conditions, cultural practices, and spiritual beliefs. By immersing themselves in the fabric of daily life, the students hope to gain insights that will inform their approach to evangelization and community service. They will work in collaboration with a former Live School graduate and a Pastor in the village.

Nevertheless, central to their mission is the proclamation of the gospel message, which lies at the heart of their endeavors. Through evangelistic outreach efforts, the students seek to share the life-transforming message of Jesus Christ with the people of Atir. Whether through personal testimonies, Bible studies, or worship gatherings, they aim to create opportunities for individuals to encounter the love and grace of God in a tangible way.

Above all, the students’ objectives are driven by a desire to expose themselves to cross- cultural ministry and to cultivate a deeper understanding and appreciation for the diverse tapestry of God’s creation. Through their interactions with the Turkana people of Atir, they hope to foster mutual respect, understanding, and empathy, transcending cultural barriers to embrace the universal bond of humanity.

As they traverse the rugged terrain of Atir, the students of Live School carry with them not only a message of hope and salvation but also tangible expressions of love and compassion. Armed with a budget of 300,000 Kenyan shillings and hearts open to the leading of the Holy Spirit, they extend an invitation to all who are willing to partner with them in this noble endeavor.

The program, set to commence on the 8th of August and culminate on the 20th, promises to cater to children, youth, and adults alike, offering a diverse array of activities designed to foster spiritual growth, cross-cultural exchange, and community development. From Bible studies and worship sessions to educational workshops and recreational activities, the program seeks to engage participants of all ages in a transformative journey of faith and discovery.

Yet we, the students of Live School recognize that our mission cannot be accomplished alone. We humbly appeal to you; fellow believers, friends, and well-wishers for support—financially, through prayers, and through donations of food, clothes, books, or any other resources that the Lord may place upon your hearts. Your support will help us see these plans become a reality.

Ways to donate are shared below:

• Bank – Christian family church-world mission Cooperative bank- Airport North Road Branch Account No. 01128801012500

• Mpesa- Paybill

• Business No. 400222

• Account No. enter 1827235#Atir