I am Gitau Maina, continually rejoicing in the saving grace of the cross—grace that is sufficient even in my brokenness, which once made me an enemy of that very cross. By God’s mercy, I now serve as an apprentice with iServe Africa, placed at Gracepoint Church Thika Road, where my journey has been one of immense learning, growth, and gratitude.
At Gracepoint Church Thika Road, my ministry has been diverse and enriching. I actively engage in children’s ministry, Vacation Bible School (VBS), and Primary Pastoral Instruction (PPI), as well as student ministry, which prepares the SALT teams for the year. My responsibilities also include:
- Setting up and taking down for services on the Lord’s Day.
- Providing administrative support in the church office.
- Scheduling pastoral visits and caring for a group of church members through prayer and fellowship.
- Recording minutes for staff and member meetings.
- Leading staff devotions and coordinating visitor follow-ups.
- Assisting in service planning and communication.
- Preparing Sunday school crafts and designing the weekly Church Bulletin.
- Managing and updating some of the church’s social media accounts.
Beyond gaining a wide range of experience in various ministry roles, one of the most enriching aspects of my apprenticeship has been the warm interactions with both the church staff and members. It has been deeply edifying to sit under the daily teaching of the Gospel, whether in meetings, Sunday sermons, or conversations with fellow believers. Witnessing children speak and sing about Christ has been humbling, reminding me of the beauty of childlike faith. Additionally, reading books together as a team has helped cultivate the discipline of learning and spiritual growth.
Engaging with iServe Africa’s Ministry Training Course (MTC) has been an incredible experience. Meeting and sharing with other apprentices and staff, reflecting on books of the Bible, and receiving comprehensive teachings on Romans and the Gospel of John have given me a clearer understanding of my sinfulness and a deeper appreciation of Christ—the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. These moments have stirred my heart to diligently pursue the salvation of my soul.
A particularly impactful read has been Heaven by Randy Alcorn, which has deepened my longing for the new earth—the celestial city where I will enjoy God forever. It has given me confidence in my faith journey, knowing that death is merely a passage to the great banquet prepared for believers. Yet, I am also reminded of the importance of living faithfully in the present, fully embracing the calling God has placed on my life.
The apprenticeship journey has been an eye-opening experience filled with opportunities to serve, learn, and grow. One of the greatest lessons has been recognizing that the work of Gospel ministry belongs to God—it is only through Him that it is possible. Trusting in His sovereignty has been essential, especially in seeing His provision for the resources needed to sustain the ministry.
Beyond financial provision, ministry is about people—serving alongside fellow believers, praying with and for one another, offering words of encouragement, and generously supporting the work of the Gospel. This journey has reinforced the beauty of Christian fellowship and the shared responsibility of advancing God’s kingdom together.