SOMA is a non-formal theological training program that is built upon a philosophy of cohort learning and Socratic discussion. This 4-year non-formal theological training program is made to meet the unique context of the African pastors.
The Church in Africa is desperate for the nourishment of biblical resources, the lifeblood essential for spiritual growth. With regards to the availability, accessibility and affordability of biblical resources, we think of the church in Africa as a body without veins. While biblical resources (blood) may be available, we lack effective distribution mechanisms (veins) to distribute resources around Kenya and Africa. This creates challenges that often leave the Church spiritually malnourished.
We have established the Soma program in response to this challenge. Soma is both a swahili word meaning ‘to read’ and a greek word meaning ‘body’. The Soma program is divided into a four-year curriculum that covers key areas of study like Ecclesiology, Biblical and Systematic Theology, Pastoral Theology, Word-based Ministry and Missions. Soma’s approach to learning revolves around cohort-based study and socratic discussions. Each month pastors in different cohorts receive a chosen book, accompanied by a study guide and report-writing guide, in preparation for a joint monthly cohort discussion. With cohorts comprising 6-12 pastors, these gatherings take place locally, allowing pastors to stay close to their homes and churches.
The overarching goal is to develop a grassroots network that spans every English-speaking country in Africa. This network will serve as the linchpin for creating a sustainable and effective mode of resource distribution. At present Ekklesia Afrika has established cohorts in several locations in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania and plans are in motion to establish cohort in S. Sudan and Ethiopia.
The Soma program aims to offer a solution to the pressing issue of defective distributions mechanisms in Africa. As we witness the slow but steady growth of cohorts in Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and the upcoming plans for expansion into South Sudan and Ethiopia, we are encouraged that the program has the potential to create a working grassroots network across every English-speaking country in Africa. To achieve this goal we invite you to join hands with us in supporting Soma both financially and prayerfully.
- Emmanuel Baptist Church, Kingara Road, Lavington, Nairobi Kenya
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+254 746 199 225
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….but grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be the glory, both now and to the day of eternity. Amen.
2 Peter 3:18