Rev. Capt. Charles Ngugi Kamama retires after 37yrs

Introduction

I am grateful to God, the author and finisher of our faith” (Hebrews 12:2). These words are not just a scripture to me, but the summary of my life. From the day of my conception to this very retirement day, Sunday, 19th October 2025, God has been my shield, my provider, and my sustainer.

Looking back over 37 years of ministry, I can only echo the words of St. Augustine: “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our heart is restless until it rests in you.” Truly, my journey has been one of resting, working, and serving in the Lord.

As an African proverb teaches, “A river that forgets its source will soon dry up.” Therefore, before I narrate my ministry, allow me to take you to my roots.

Background

I was born on 12th October 1960 at Gichaka village in Ol’Jororok sub-county, Nyandarua county. My late father, Jacob Kamama, worked as a cook under the white settlers in the area, while my mother, Esther Wambui, was a disciplined, hardworking homemaker. From them, I inherited resilience, respect for hard work, and the discipline that would later anchor my ministry.

I grew up in a large family. My siblings included the late Moses Kuria, Mary Wanjiru, the late John Macharia, James Kamau, Joseph Kahura, the late Elijah Muchiri, Hannah Njoki, Lucy Wangari, the late Tabitha, and our last born, Paul Ndirangu. Being part of such a family taught me early lessons in patience, negotiation, and sometimes running very fast when food was scarce!

In June 1976, I received Jesus Christ as my personal Lord and Savior. That day marked a new chapter in my life, a day when heaven smiled upon a young boy from Ol’Jororok and set him apart for divine purpose. Since then, sanctification has been my daily walk: yesterday sanctified, today sanctifying, tomorrow awaiting perfection at Christ’s glorious return.

As John Wesley once said, “Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the places you can.” This became my silent compass.

Education

Education shaped my outlook. I began at Gathuthi and Marimu primary schools, completing my C.P.E. in 1979. I later joined Mwenda-Andu Secondary School, where I sat for K.J.S.E. in 1981 and K.S.E. in 1983.

With a natural curiosity for mechanics, I pursued training at the Nakuru Institute of Technology from 1986–1987, where I attained a National Trade Test Certificate Grade III in motor vehicle mechanics. Although God eventually called me into pulpit ministry, I often joke that I can preach on Sunday and fix your car on Monday. Indeed, as Plato once said, “The direction in which education starts a man will determine his future life.” For me, my education, both formal and spiritual, prepared me for a life of service.

Call to Ministry

The stirring of my heart toward ministry came gradually. Like the prophet Jeremiah, I felt God’s fire burning within me, compelling me to serve. Ministry is not a profession you choose like law or medicine; it is a calling that chooses you. I remember resisting at first, for I thought I was not worthy. But God reminded me of the African proverb: “If the drum beats for you, you must dance.” Eventually, I answered the call and was ordained, embarking on a journey that would span nearly four decades in the Diocese of Nairobi.

Ministry Journey

My ministry has taken me through different parishes, congregations, and communities. I served faithfully as a priest, teacher, counselor, and mentor. From rural parishes where goats occasionally wandered into church during services, to urban congregations where microphones sometimes failed at the peak of a sermon, ministry has been both humbling and fulfilling.

In each assignment, I sought to build parish structures, mentor leaders, and plant seeds of faith in both the young and old. As Mother Teresa once said, “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” This became my philosophy.

Reflections and Lessons from 37 Years

When I look back at nearly four decades in ministry, certain truths stand out like guiding stars in the night sky.

First, I have learned that God’s faithfulness is constant. There were moments when resources were scarce, congregations divided, or my own strength seemed insufficient. Yet, in those very moments, I experienced what the Psalmist declared: “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not want.” Truly, He has never abandoned me. Life has taught me the African proverb: “Even the best cooking pot will not produce food.” It is not our strength or effort that sustains ministry, but God’s provision and grace.

Secondly, I have discovered that humility is power. Ministry is not about titles, collars, or robes, but about kneeling to wash the feet of others. A rooster may crow loudly at dawn, but it does not make the sun rise. That reminder has kept me grounded, whatever the successes, it has always been God’s doing, not mine. This one great philosophers of all time, Socrates once said, “The only true wisdom is in knowing you know nothing.” The more years I spent in ministry, the more I realized how much I depended on God.

Thirdly, I have seen that the gospel remains the center. Buildings can be raised, programs written, and structures organized, but if the gospel is not preached, people remain unchanged. Programs can entertain, but only the Word of God can transform. The German theologian Karl Barth advised pastors to, “Preach with the Bible in one hand and the newspaper in the other.” That wisdom has guided me: to preach the gospel faithfully while addressing the realities of life.

Finally, I have learned that laughter heals. Ministry can be heavy, but humor lightens the load. I recall one Sunday when I passionately sang the wrong hymn verse. The congregation laughed so hard, some with tears rolling down their cheeks. At first, I felt embarrassed, but then I realized, it was the most joyful worship that day! God delights not only in solemnity but also in joy. Indeed, Proverbs 17:22 reminds us, “A cheerful heart is good medicine.”

Challenges in Ministry

Ministry is a battlefield, not a playground. Over 37 years, I faced challenges that stretched my faith and refined my character.

One of the most persistent struggles was financial hardship in parishes. Many times, the church had big dreams but small pockets. Fundraising became a way of life. We often had to be creative, organizing harambees, inviting well-wishers, and teaching stewardship. I learned that God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply, but the timing of that supply often tested our patience!

There were also cultural and political pressures. The church in Kenya, like elsewhere, does not exist in a vacuum. Communities often carried cultural expectations into the church, some of which clashed with biblical teaching. At times, political divisions seeped into congregations, threatening unity. As clergy, we had to be the peacemakers, reminding the faithful that the church belongs to Christ, not to tribal or political camps. It was never easy, but the call of Christ is clear: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.”

A third challenge was balancing pastoral care with personal rest. Sheep never stop needing a shepherd, weddings, funerals, crises, counseling, all come knocking even in the middle of the night. At times, fatigue would set in, and my family would long for my attention. It was then I realized the wisdom of Jesus, who often withdrew to lonely places to pray. Ministry requires not only service but also rest.

Finally, congregational conflicts and misunderstandings tested my patience. People, by nature, carry differences of opinion. At times, church disputes became fiery, and as clergy, I often stood in the middle, absorbing the heat. Yet those very conflicts taught me diplomacy, listening, and humility. They also reminded me of Albert Einstein’s wisdom: “In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity.” And indeed, God turned trials into testimonies, divisions into unity, and disputes into growth.

Achievements and Legacy

Despite challenges, I look back not with regret but with gratitude. Ministry bore fruit, not because of my own strength but because God blessed the labor of His servant.

One key achievement was strengthening parish structures and leadership. Wherever I served, I worked to ensure the church was not dependent on one man. Committees, lay leaders, and wardens were trained and empowered. Leadership is like farming, you plant seeds and trust God for the harvest. Today, I take joy in seeing many leaders serving faithfully in the Diocese who once sat under my mentorship.

Secondly, I had the privilege of mentoring future clergy and lay leaders. Young men and women came to me with questions, with doubts, and with callings. By God’s grace, I walked with them, encouraged them, and sometimes even pushed them when they hesitated. Now, many of them are priests, evangelists, and church leaders. This, more than anything, is my crown. For what greater joy is there than to see spiritual sons and daughters serving the Lord?

Thirdly, I was honored to contribute to church growth and governance. Whether through building projects, parish expansion, or participating in diocesan structures, I sought to leave every station better than I found it. The philosopher Aristotle once said, “The whole is greater than the sum of its parts.” Every parish I served became part of the greater Diocese, and my contribution was but one stone in the cathedral of God’s kingdom.

Lastly, I consider it a sacred privilege that I was able to minister to the broken, the poor, and the marginalized. Ministry is not about the pulpit alone but about being present in the valleys of people’s lives, at hospital bedsides, in slums, in prisons, in funerals. These moments defined ministry more than any grand project ever could.

In all this, I know that legacy is not measured in buildings or titles. Legacy is measured in people, transformed lives, restored families, reconciled communities. As the African proverb wisely says, “The footprints of a good leader are not erased even when the rains fall.” My prayer is that my footprints in ministry will not wash away, but will remain as paths for others to follow toward Christ.

CHURCH MINISTRY

I was not born holding a Bible, neither did I come into the world wearing a collar. My story begins in the quiet service of a verger at St. Mathews Karen in 1988. For two years, I rang the bell, dusted the pews, and made sure the sanctuary was ready before the priest ever stepped in. I quickly learned that God’s work has no small task; even sweeping the floor of the church is a prayer in motion. As the Kikuyu proverb says, “The path is made by walking,” and indeed my path to ministry was being laid, broom by broom, hymn by hymn.

But God has a way of giving you more than you bargain for. Apart from verging, I was handed the responsibility of teaching Sunday school and leading the Brigade children. Let me confess, children are the best congregation you can ever preach to, because they will tell you the truth straight. If your sermon is boring, they will sleep with their eyes open. If it is exciting, they will climb on the chairs shouting “Hallelujah!” without shame. As one African wise man said, “A child is like an axe, you can use it to cut down a tree, but if you don’t hold it well, it will cut your hand.” Those little ones taught me patience, humility, and laughter. I often say, “He who cannot serve in the small things will never be trusted with the great ones.”

The late Rev. Simon Muraguri, who was my vicar then, must have seen something in me beyond cleaning chalices and chasing Sunday school children around. Together with the Parish Council, he recommended me to join Church Army Training College in 1990. From there, the road stretched, to theology at Limuru University, Higher Diploma at Church Army, and eventually commissioning as a Captain (Evangelist). This was not just education, it was formation. We were shaped not only in knowledge but in character. I often recall a lecturer who told us, “A preacher’s sermon begins long before he steps onto the pulpit. His life is his first sermon.” That has remained my guiding principle.

After my training, I was commissioned and posted back to St. Matthew’s Karen, Hardy, to serve as a Captain (Evangelist). I worked under the leadership of the late Rev. Simon Muraguri, Retired Rev. Gedion Kabetu, and the late Rev. Elijah Githinji for seven years. These men became not just my seniors, but my mentors. They modeled faith, discipline, and pastoral courage. Ministry those days was tough but fulfilling. We had little resources, but our faith was as tall as the Kenyatta International Conference Centre

By God’s grace, I had the privilege of witnessing two historic events at St. Matthew’s Karen. I was present at the groundbreaking in 1988, and later, in 2000, I saw the consecration of the completed sanctuary. It took twelve years from groundbreaking to completion. Twelve years between soil and sanctuary. As the elders say, “A tree is not felled with one strike.” That period taught me patience and perseverance in ministry. Truly, as the African proverb says, “Patience can cook a stone.”

It was during this time that my calling to ordained ministry became clearer. In the year 2000, the late Rev. Elijah Githinji formally recommended me. On Sunday, 30th July 2000, I was made Deacon at All Saints Cathedral, Nairobi. My first posting was to ACK St. Andrew’s Kasarani (Zimmerman), where I served under Retired Rev. Edward Kirogo as a Deacon Curate for five months.

Later that same year, on 31st December 2000, I was ordained to the priesthood by the late Archbishop David Gitari at All Saints Cathedral. The very next day—1st January 2001, I was posted as Vicar of St. Jude’s Huruma Parish. I often smile when I recall this transition: while the world was celebrating the New Year, I was receiving both a new calendar year and a new chapter in my ministry.

St. Jude’s Huruma Parish (2001–2008)

I served at St. Jude’s Huruma for eight fruitful years (2001–2008). The parish had been founded in 1987 and for sixteen years had worshipped at the rented Huruma Community Centre. When I arrived in January 2001, it was clear that this parish had great potential, but also great challenges.

We embarked on an aggressive mission strategy, door-to-door evangelism, discipleship programs, and stewardship teachings on time, talent, and treasure. We preached unity of purpose, because as the proverb says, “If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.”

The books of Nehemiah, Haggai, and Zechariah became the backbone of my preaching and teaching. Nehemiah taught us about vision and rebuilding broken walls; Haggai reminded us to prioritize God’s house; Zechariah showed us that not by might, nor by power, but by the Spirit of God would we succeed.

Between 2001–2003, we mobilized resources to acquire a plot with a three-bedroom house. This became our base. In 2003, we constructed a temporary iron-sheet structure that served us faithfully until June 2007.

But God had greater plans. In August 2008, we broke ground for a permanent church building, a moment I will never forget. Rev. Canon Jane Mwangi graced the occasion, and I had the honor of officiating. We designed the structure like Noah’s Ark—with lower, middle, and upper levels.

• The ground floor became a multipurpose children’s hall.
• The first floor and balcony housed the sanctuary for the youth, Kiswahili, and English services.
• A mezzanine floor accommodated the vicar’s office, the accounts office, and a kitchen.
• We added adequate sanitation facilities for both men and women.

Between August 2007 and August 2008, the sanctuary itself was completed. By December 2008, we were ready to roof the building. Truly, it was the Lord’s doing and marvelous in our eyes.

During those eight years, our ministry at St. Jude’s was anchored on nine biblical pillars, drawn from Haggai 1:7–8, Haggai 2:8, and Zechariah 4:6–10. These pillars guided our teaching, stewardship, and vision. We preached them relentlessly, and the results spoke for themselves: the parish grew not just numerically, but spiritually and structurally.

The story of St. Jude’s Huruma remains one of my most treasured memories. It showed me that even a community worshipping in a rented hall can, with faith and unity, build a sanctuary for the Lord.

ACK ST. JOSEPH NGARA PARISH – RIVER BANK PRIMARY (SEPTEMBER 2008 TO DECEMBER 31ST, 2010)

After leaving St. Jude’s Huruma in August 2008, the Lord opened a new chapter of ministry for me at ACK St. Joseph Ngara Parish, which at the time was worshipping at River Bank Primary School. The parish had been struggling for close to four years, especially in the quest for redeeming a permanent plot for worship. Many meetings had been held, prayers lifted, and pledges made, but the challenge of land acquisition in Ngara was a heavy mountain to climb.

In 2009, after much negotiation and consultation, the Parish Church Council and I took a bold step of faith. We identified a house within Ngara valued at 15 million shillings and entered into an agreement with the owner. To secure the commitment, we raised 1.5 million shillings as a deposit, not a small feat considering the economic hardships of the time. This amount was a testimony of sacrificial giving from a congregation that was not wealthy in material terms but was rich in faith.

We sought the assistance of the Church Commissioners for Kenya to finance the balance. However, our request for a loan was not granted. Undeterred, we turned to Equity Bank, but their loan terms required us to raise 40% of the total amount upfront, while they would provide 60%. For a congregation already stretched to its limits, this became a hurdle too high to cross. The situation reminded me of the words of Scripture: “The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, declares the Lord Almighty” (Haggai 2:8). We knew that though banks could not release funds, heaven’s treasury was never bankrupt.

During those two years, we committed ourselves to mission and evangelism. We held crusades in Ngara, conducted door-to-door fellowships, and established a vibrant routine of Bible exposition services. The parishioners learned that while we might not have had the finances to redeem the plot immediately, we had something greater — the presence of God and the zeal to serve Him. I often told the members, “A church is not first built with bricks, but with people whose hearts are on fire for God.”

By the end of 2010, though the physical plot was not yet secured, the spiritual foundation of St. Joseph Ngara was strengthened. Our fellowship deepened, our worship became more vibrant, and the Christians gained courage to believe that one day, the Lord would provide a permanent sanctuary.

ACK ST. BARNABAS PARISH – OTIENDE (NOVEMBER 2011 TO DECEMBER 31ST, 2015)

In November 2011, I was transferred to ACK St. Barnabas Parish, Otiende. Here, I found a congregation already enthusiastic about development, yet longing for stronger pastoral direction. My arrival was marked by warmth, and the PCC quickly embraced a shared vision: to combine evangelism with tangible development.

We began with mobilization of resources, but not just financial. We mobilized time, talents, and treasures. Every Christian was reminded that stewardship was holistic — God does not only require our pockets, but also our participation, presence, and prayers.

Together, we realized significant projects that changed the landscape of the parish:

1. Cabro Paving of the Church Compound – The dusty grounds were transformed into a clean, well-kept compound. I used to joke with the Christians that we had moved from “walking in the wilderness” to “walking on the King’s highway.” Children could now play safely without mud, and weddings could be conducted in beauty.
2. Establishment of a Modern Studio – With a P.A. system and large screens installed, our services took a new dimension. Worship became alive with technology supporting proclamation. Young people especially took ownership of this project, seeing it as their contribution to the church’s growth.
3. Water Tower for the Ablution Block – One might think water is a small matter, but I always said, “Cleanliness is next to godliness.” Installing a water tower ensured that worshippers could enjoy proper sanitation, and the dignity of God’s house was maintained.
4. Perimeter Wall and Gate for a One-Acre Plot in Karen – Security and identity are vital for any church. With the support of the parishioners, we fenced and gated the property, securing it for generations to come. It reminded me of Nehemiah building the wall of Jerusalem: it was both a physical and spiritual act.
5. Evangelism and Fellowship Programs – Beyond physical development, we never lost sight of the spiritual mandate. We sustained estate fellowships, mission outreaches, baptism and confirmation services, weddings, and Bible exposition series. The parish grew deeper in discipleship while also growing wider in influence.

By the end of 2015, St. Barnabas Parish was no longer the same. Worshippers had seen what unity of purpose and faithful stewardship could accomplish. I left Otiende with gratitude, knowing that together with the Christians, we had planted seeds that would bear fruit for years to come.

ACK ST. ELIZABETH PARISH – KAHAWA WEST (JANUARY 1ST, 2016 – OCTOBER 30TH, 2025)

The longest and perhaps most transformative chapter of my ministry unfolded at ACK St. Elizabeth Parish, Kahawa West, where I was posted on 1st January 2016. From the very beginning, my family and I were received with overwhelming love by the PCC and parishioners. It felt like entering Canaan after many wilderness journeys.

We began with resource mobilization, not in the sense of heavy fundraising alone, but in cultivating a culture of generosity and faith. Evangelism, discipleship, estate fellowships, and pastoral visitations became the backbone of parish life. Bible exposition services were conducted weekly and monthly, and through preaching, teaching, and worship, the congregation experienced both spiritual and financial breakthroughs.

By God’s grace, the following achievements were realized during my ten years of service:

1. Completed Ablution Block – Dedicated on 16th December 2017.
2. Academy Complex – Dedicated the same day, symbolizing our twin focus on spiritual and educational growth.
3. House L6 (5M) – Dedicated in 2017 as an investment for future academy expansion.
4. One Acre Plot Donation by GK (2018) – A miracle provision that secured space for growth.
5. House K5 (5.5M) – Dedicated on 6th December 2019.
6. Foundation Stone for the ACK St. Elizabeth CBC Complex – Laid in December 2019.
7. Borehole (Rehoboth Well, 180ft) & 50,000-litre Water Tower – Dedicated on 3rd March 2021, ensuring sustainable water supply.
8. Upper Primary Block – Dedicated on 23rd July 2022.
9. Modern Studio & Equipment – Dedicated on 23rd July 2022.
10. Two Buses (25-seater & 33-seater) – Dedicated on 23rd July 2022.
11. Three-Phase Generator (2.2M) – Dedicated on 23rd July 2022.
12. Ten Smart TVs and Screens – Dedicated on 23rd July 2022.
13. Over 32 CCTV Cameras – Dedicated on 23rd July 2022.
14. Furnished Junior School Laboratory – Dedicated on 12th March 2023.
15. Safaricom Booster Installed – 15-year contract providing consistent connectivity.
16. Over 60 Hardwood Pews – Enhancing worship comfort and dignity.
17. Planted St. Swithun Congregation (2016) – Expanding parish mission.
18. Birth of ACK St. Luke’s Kamae Parish (June 1st, 2024) – With three congregations: St. Luke’s, St. Thomas Soweto, and St. Swithun Farmers Choice.
19. Modern Kitchen – Dedicated on 28th September 2025.
20. Nine Classrooms (G9) – Dedicated on 28th September 2025.
21. House L8 (6M) – Dedicated on 28th September 2025.
22. Equipped Computer Lab – Dedicated for digital literacy.

The academy grew from fewer than 100 learners to over 800 learners, and the staff from fewer than 10 teachers to over 40. We purchased three houses (L6, K5, and L8) as long-term investments for the academy. The borehole solved the water crisis, and our buses eased transport challenges.

Looking back, I see St. Elizabeth not just as a parish but as a movement of faith, vision, and community transformation. It became clear that when the church dares to believe, God multiplies every seed of faith into a harvest of blessing.

Final Reflections and Celebration of 37 Years in Ministry

When I look back at my journey, I cannot help but agree with the Psalmist: “The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy” (Psalm 126:3).

I have lived long enough to serve under five bishops and archbishops:

• The late Archbishop Manasses Kuria,
• The late Archbishop Dr. David Gitari,
• Bishop Emeritus Peter Njoka,
• Bishop Emeritus Joel Waweru Mwangi,
• and Bishop Jonathan Kabiru Kariuki.

It is said in an African proverb: “A child who has many fathers does not lack discipline.” Truly, under each bishop, I was stretched, guided, corrected, and encouraged, and I came out stronger.

A Tally of Service

• Two years as a verger (1988–1989) at ACK St. Matthew’s, Karen.
• Three years of theological studies at Church Army Bible College and Limuru University (1990–1992).
• Seven years as a Church Army Captain/Evangelist at St. Matthew’s Karen (1993–2000).
• Five months as a Deacon Curate at St. Andrew’s Zimmerman (2000).
• Twenty years in the ordained ministry as a priest (2000–2025).
• Eight years as Vicar of St. Jude, Huruma (2001–2008).
• Two years at St. Joseph, Ngara (2008–2010).
• Five years at St. Barnabas, Otiende (2011–2015).
• Ten years at St. Elizabeth, Kahawa West (2016–2025).

When I add it all up, it gives me 37 years of continuous service in the Diocese of Nairobi. Someone once asked me, “Baba, how have you lasted this long?” I told them, “I drank the tea of God’s grace every morning, and somehow it kept refilling itself.”

Marriage and Family

For the past 30 years (since 9th December 1995), I have been married to my beloved wife. In that period, we have learned that marriage is not a straight road but a road with potholes — and sometimes you must be both the driver and the mechanic.

God blessed us with two wonderful children: Karen Esther Wambui and Jeremiah Kamama. Raising children while in ministry is like being both a referee and a player in the same match — you are blowing the whistle while still chasing the ball!

But God has preserved us, provided for us, and protected us. Another African proverb says: “If you want to go quickly, go alone; if you want to go far, go together.” For 30 years, we have gone far together.

Appreciation

At this stage, I must give thanks:

• To God – for calling me, sustaining me, and using me despite my weaknesses.
• To my Bishops – for trusting me with parishes and responsibilities.
• To my family – for being patient when church work ate into family time.
• To my fellow clergy – for the laughter, debates, and prayers we shared.
• To PCCs and parishioners – for their partnership in ministry.
• To friends – who encouraged me along the way.

It is said: “The footprints of a man are not seen on the road until he has walked it.” Truly, together we walked this road.

Final Reflections

Looking back, I can only testify:

• I was young, and now I am older, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken (Psalm 37:25).
• Surely goodness and mercy have followed me all the days of my life (Psalm 23:6).
• And I am convinced that “the one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24).

An African proverb says: “However long the night, the dawn will break.” My night of struggles, tears, and endless church meetings always broke into mornings of laughter, answered prayers, and surprising blessings.

And now, as I retire, I can laugh at myself a little. I often joked:

• “The difference between a parishioner and a mosquito is this: a mosquito stops biting you when you switch off the light!”
• Or, “Some Christians expect a short sermon but a long blessing, I tell them, even God Himself needed six days to create the world, why do you want me to finish in ten minutes?”

Humour carried me through. For as another proverb says: “Laughter is the medicine that has no side effects.”

Conclusion

If my ministry has planted seeds, let others water them. If I have built foundations, let others raise the walls. If I have carried burdens, let others continue the journey.

I close with this short poem:

I came with empty hands,
God filled them with His grace.
I walked with trembling steps,
He steadied me in the race.
I laboured, I wept, I prayed,
Yet all was by His might.
Now I lay down my tools,
For the Lord has been my light.

To God be the glory, great things He has done.