This archive report was first published on 24 October 2019.
Located in a scenic area, Nyanchwa SDA Church stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) faith. Established in 1906, the church has undergone significant transformations over the years, evolving from a humble mud-and-thatch structure to a thriving complex.
According to retired pastor Samson Kingoina Nyasae, the original church building still exists, albeit with some modifications. The structure now serves as a library for students in the primary, secondary, and college levels within the complex. Mr. Kingoina notes that the initial church was a temporary mud-and-thatch building, which was later upgraded to a modern structure in the 1960s.
"The hard-core building still stands strong. Pastor Fred Thomas personally contributed to its construction," said Mr. Kingoina. The 73-year-old pastor also highlighted the church's role in breeding missionaries, who played a significant part in spreading the gospel to various parts of the country.
Under the leadership of Pastor Lenard Aencha, the South Kenya Conference Executive Secretary, the church has grown to encompass over 400 churches with 200,000 members. However, the church's land is threatened by land grabbers, posing a significant challenge to its continued growth.
As a protestant Christian denomination, the SDA Church is distinguished by its observance of the Sabbath on Saturday and its emphasis on the imminent second coming of Jesus Christ. With a worldwide baptized membership of over 20 million and 25 million adherents, the church continues to be a significant force in the Christian community.
