About us...
John 15:12 "This is my commandment: love each other just as I have loved you."
People are the reason that God does everything and people are who God uses to carry out His purpose. We connect to people that have proven their intentions to make disciples in their community and partner with them in their efforts. This is how we model Biblical collaboration. We are all co-laborers in this effort and no one knows the hearts and minds of the people in a specific geographic location like the people that live there. In our commitment to make relationships paramount, we would like to introduce you to our friend and partner with Our Next.
Maurice and Benter Odhiambo are the founder and co-founder of Manna Ministries in Kisumu, Kenya. Maurice is a missionary. Maurice and his team are true servants of our Lord. He is a successful businessman who works tirelessly to reach the lost and needy in other countries surrounding Kenya, as well as in his own backyard. Benter is the glue to their family and hold a very special place in the ministry. She exemplifies faithfulness in all she does, serving others with a humble heart, unwavering dedication, and a genuine love for people. Maurice grew up in extreme poverty with odds have never favored him, but he knew that God did. Through a miraculous series of events God set he and his family apart and gave them the vision and the means to impact the widows and the fatherless in the small rural location where he grew up. Maurice and Benter's heart and love for their family, ministry and everyone they encounter is one of a kind. We love Maurice, Benter and the entire Manna Ministry, and you will too!
If you climb the massive boulders near the dirt road, you can see the fishing boats on Lake Victoria in the distance. The vantage point allows one to see the green roof of a primary school. There’s a dash each morning to reach the barbed wire fence line that barely supports a wooden gate. The kids arrive early after walking several miles alone. They are not early to get a head start on the day’s assignments, but for the warm bowl of porridge that awaits them daily. The teachers are already in the classroom preparing for the day. The chalk boards have been struck with lines, and the little bodies make their way to crowded desks. This is Manna Academy. Manna offers hope to over 450 orphans in a community that has been ravaged with the effects of poverty, AIDS and Malaria. Manna currently has classes from Baby class of 3 years of age up to grade 6. After the children of Manna complete the 6th grade they will need to test to go on to secondary school. They continue their education at Manna Junior Secondary school if they wish. This school was established in 2023.
Manna JSS is currently serving approximately 250 students, providing far more than a traditional education. Students receive academic instruction that equips them for future success while also learning valuable life skills such as leadership, responsibility, teamwork, character development, and practical everyday skills that help them thrive beyond the classroom. In addition to education, Manna JSS is committed to caring for the whole child. Many of the students come from families facing significant challenges, making nutrition a critical part of their development. Through the support of generous donors and partners, we are able to provide monthly food assistance, helping ensure students and their families have access to nutritious meals. For some children, these meals are a vital source of nourishment and support. By investing in Manna JSS, you are helping provide education, life-changing opportunities, teacher support, school supplies, and essential nutrition for hundreds of students. Together, we are empowering the next generation with the tools they need to learn, grow, and build a brighter future.
Above photo is from 2015, where we began at...
God is on the move and sees these students and staff members at Manna!