A Surprise Trip to Philadelphia in the Middle of my Time in Kenya: Day 7: Monday, 25/1/2010

The Lord can ask us to do some pretty illogical things sometimes. I certainly didn’t expect this! What was even more surprising was that John and Susan were also on the trip.

Well if you really believed that, I have to burst your bubble. There is a retreat and conference center in Kenya called Philadelphia. It was started just a few years ago on the farm of now retired Archbishop David Gitari. By John’s account, he is revered in Kenya with a character similar to that of Archbishop Desmond Tutu of South Africa.

We met briefly with the archbishop who I sensed had a very conciliatory attitude towards the current strife in the Anglican Communion. When I was introduced to the archbishop, he asked, “Are you an Episcopalian.” I answered, “Yes.” He then said, “We are Anglicans. We are all the same.” This made a memorable impression on me. He presented me with his card at the end of our visit and I intend to correspond with him when I return home.

The center is designed after a traditional Kikuyu village. It was a beautiful place. I envision taking those who accompany me to Kenya next year there for a couple day orientation and retreat to begin our mission.