Community

its International School of Service (SOS). Prior to COVID, EMI conducted its SOS three times each year. During a weeklong learning experience, participants from around the were granted. In June of this year, an EMI team of 15 will take its mission to Nairobi, Kenya. Why Kenya?

After attending a Creating Connections class on February 1, Mariemont resident Larry Bourgeois commented: “EMI knows how valuable listening can be in forming trusting and caring relationships. They provide practical, life-tested wisdom and guidance to help everyday people improve the quality of life in their families and among friends and acquaintances.”

Over the years, EMI has provided training for approximately half a million participants from over 120 countries through world were hosted by local families and were nourished with training and resources to develop skills in communication, fostering trust, and respect – with the intent that each participant would return home to replicate what they learned within their churches, communities, and families.

Time to Flip the Script and Bring Training Overseas

Over the past few years, the vast majority of visa requests have been denied. In October 2023, 95 students applied and only three visas

• EMI has a strong base of graduates in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.

• A three-time attendee, Reverend Daniel Wambua, of Joy Tabernacle Ministries International, is hosting EMI’s team.

• Attendees from Central and East Africa will be able attend with no international restrictions.

• Attendees from North America, Europe, and Asia can obtain approval from the Kenyan government within one day via Electronic Travel Authorization, an online process with a $30 fee.

• This trip is a first step toward realizing the longtime dream of a training center in Kenya.

• As a bonus, the EMI team and training attendees will experience a 3-day safari at the savannah wilderness of Maasai Mara National Reserve and witness the annual wildebeest migration.

A few words from EMI’s Kenyan host, Pastor Wambua: “EMI’s training will shift servants of God to caring ministers who are able to listen with empathy and respect and speak the truth in love. One of the greatest life transforming experiences happens in the breakout groups as people open up for renewal of their mind.

“I am eagerly awaiting this wonderful experience as we allow the Holy Spirit’s transformative work in our lives. I take this opportunity to welcome, especially those who are coming to facilitate. Hakuna matata. Karibuni Kenya.”

Back here in Mariemont, EMI will host its next Creating Connection experience on Saturday, May 31, at Mariemont Church from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. EMI suggests a donation of $80, or whatever a person can afford. Anyone can sign up at www.equippingministries. org/events.