ANGAZA Kenya Spring Bible School

A new Torchbearers Bible school that emphasizes biblical discipleship within a community representing the global church. Students have the opportunity to pursue deeper formation in Christ, live and serve in community with other Christ-followers from around the world and experience Christ at work firsthand in the local context of Kenya.

ANGAZA Kenya Spring Bible School

A new Torchbearers Bible school that emphasizes biblical discipleship within a community representing the global church. Students have the opportunity to pursue deeper formation in Christ, live and serve in community with other Christ-followers from around the world and experience Christ at work firsthand in the local context of Kenya.

Location

Embu, Kenya is located 130 km NW of Nairobi and in the shadow of Mount Kenya. Our site will be the beautiful Shumen Retreat Center, regionally known for its lush garden-filled campus.
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Course Info

Students will sit under teaching from western and African teachers, covering a variety of biblical books and topics. Every class will be conducted in both English and Swahili, with a class size of up to 40 students. Our goal is a diverse student body consisting of a vibrant diversity of African and non-African students.

Dates & Fees

  • May 20-June 17, 2023
  • $1,200 (for non-African students)

Fees include all necessary in-country expenses. Travel to and from Kenya is not included. Your registration fees help subsidize the participation of African students. See FAQ sheet for more details.

The vision of the Angaza Torchbearers School is to equip young people and send them back out into the local church in their own community, that Christ would use them to have kingdom impact. We will aim to accomplish this through three means:

 

  1. Biblical discipleship: We desire to see students formed in Christ by the power ofthe Holy Spirit through the transformation of the mind, the practice of spiritual disciplines, in the context of Christian community.
  2. Manifestation of the global body of Christ: We will strive to experience and demonstrate the deep unity shared by followers of Jesus which cuts across all other differences (e.g. race, nationality, language, culture, gender, age, etc.) that often divide the world.
  3. Kenyan context: We will immerse ourselves in the local context of Kenya to better see and understand how Christ is at work in this beautiful part of our world. We want this school to have a Kenyan “accent.” We would also like to have a positive Kingdom-impact for Christ in the community of Embu and beyond.

Learn more in the FAQ section below. 2023 school is FULL but applications for 2024 school will open soon.

The vision of the Angaza Torchbearers School is to equip young people and send them back out into the local church in their own community, that Christ would use them to have kingdom impact. We will aim to accomplish this through three means:

 

Biblical discipleship: We desire to see students formed in Christ by the power ofthe Holy Spirit through the transformation of the mind, the practice of spiritual disciplines, in the context of Christian community.

Manifestation of the global body of Christ: We will strive to experience and demonstrate the deep unity shared by followers of Jesus which cuts across all other differences (e.g. race, nationality, language, culture, gender, age, etc.) that often divide the world.

Kenyan context: We will immerse ourselves in the local context of Kenya to better see and understand how Christ is at work in this beautiful part of our world. We want this school to have a Kenyan “accent.” We would also like to have a positive Kingdom-impact for Christ in the community of Embu and beyond.

Applications closed for 2023 school,  applications for 2024 school will open soon.

Learn more in the FAQ section below

FAQs

 

Where does the name Angaza come from?

Angaza, in Swahili, means “give light” or “illuminate.” The very first Torchbearers students were Germans who came to study in England following WWII. Those students began calling themselves the “Fackeltraeger” or “carriers of the torch,” and so the name “Torchbearers” was born. Angaza carries with it this original intent, that our mission is to equip young people to illuminate the world by bearing the light of Christ.
 

What will be the curriculum and who are the teachers?

During each of the four weeks, we will host two teachers who will instruct on a different topic. Many teachers will do an in-depth study on a book or portion of the Bible (e.g. Genesis, the Gospel of Mark, Paul’s letter to the Galatians). Others will lead a study on a Christian theme (e.g. Christian formation, Christ through the Old Testament, etc.). We are committed to offering an international faculty of world-class teachers, with the goal that half of our teachers would be from the African continent.
 

Who are the students?

We will have a maximum of 40 students. We have reserved 20 spaces for African students and 20 spaces for non- African students in keeping with our vision of this school is to bring together a student group that represents the global church.
 

When will students arrive and depart?

Students traveling from outside Kenya should plan to arrive at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi on Saturday, May 20. Transportation will then be arranged from Nairobi to the school site in Embu. The last day of school will be Friday, June 16.
 

What is the connection between the Crossroads School in Albania and the Angaza School in Kenya?

The Albania school is sponsoring this new spring school in Kenya. With their 20 years of experience, the leadership in Albania has been crucial in applying their knowledge and experience to the creation of this new school.
 

Where is the school located?

Embu is a city of about 65,000 located approximately 125 kilometers (78 mi) northeast of Nairobi towards Mount Kenya. It is the commercial hub of the Central Eastern region of Kenya and provides an avenue for trade, tourism and highway transit between the national capital and the Northern Frontier. Embu is also the site of a large university.
 
The Angaza school will take place at the Shunem Retreat Center (named after the Shunammite woman in 2nd Kings 4), located 5 km outside of Embu. The Center is regionally-known for its beautiful, garden-filled grounds, and will provide a peaceful setting for the school. Students will have plenty of opportunities to explore Embu, the surrounding region, and nearby Mount Kenya.
 

What is the weather like in Kenya in the spring?

The average high this time of year is 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 Celsius). The average low is 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius). May to June marks the end of the wet season, so students should expect some rain.
 

What is the age limit for the school?

We encourage students 18-25 years old to apply. Exceptions may be made for students slightly older. Students must be at least 18 years old or have completed high school (or the equivalent).
 

Can married couples attend the Angaza school?

Yes. We can make arrangements for married couples to be housed together.

In what language will the classes be taught?

Students will need to be proficient in English as all classes will be taught in that language. English, along with Swahili, is a national language in Kenya and widely spoken throughout the country.
 

Will there be opportunities for ministry in the local community?

Yes! One of the key components of the Angaza school will be the opportunity for students to partner with local ministries every week in serving the local community.

What will a normal weekly schedule look like?

Each week, students will have classes in the morning and some evenings. Afternoons are reserved for personal study, recreation, exploration into the local community, school ministry outreach, etc. Students will also meet regularly throughout the week in smaller family groups, and gather as a group for regular worship and devotions. On Saturdays, we will organize outings for students. On Sundays students will worship in a local Kenyan church and have an opportunity for Sabbath rest.

Will students be assigned roommates?

Yes. Each student will have between 1-5 roommates of the same gender.

How much does the school cost?

The cost for non-African students is $1,200. This covers all school-sponsored expenses (see list below), including travel to the school from the airport. Travel to and from Kenya is not included and must be covered by each student. A significant portion of this cost helps subsidize the tuition for African students who, in general, do not have the financial resources to afford this experience. Students may want to bring extra money for optional experiences such as shopping, touring, restaurants, etc.

Included in tuition: housing, all meals, laundry, internet services, required study materials and books, group trips and experiences, travel to and from airport to the school site.

Not included in tuition: airfare, passport and visa expenses, vaccinations, health and accident insurance, postage and phone calls, personal spending money (snacks, medications, toiletries, souvenirs, etc.)

Are alcohol and tobacco permitted?

No. The use of alcoholic beverages and tobacco is NOT permitted for the duration of the Bible School. The reasons for this include cultural sensitivity and a commitment to healthy communal living.

Are pets allowed?

No, we cannot accommodate pets.

Are there scholarships or financial assistance?

There may be some limited financial assistance for students who have specific financial hardship. However, we highly encourage students to seek sponsorship from their local church, family, or wider community.

Will a wildlife safari be included in the school?

We will arrange a safari at some point during the school term, or just after the end of the term, for those students who are interested. This experience is not covered in the cost of the school. Students are certainly welcome to extend their time in Kenya after the school term ends and arrange their own travel experiences. We can provide trusted travel agents who can help with these arrangements.

Can guests visit?

Yes. Accommodations can be made for family or friends to visit for a limited time. Arrangements should be made with the Angaza staff. Guests will be responsible for all their food and lodging expenses.

What sort of travel documents and vaccinations will be needed?

In addition to a valid passport, students will need to apply for and be issued a Kenyan visa. Students will be required to check with their local medical professionals in regards to what vaccinations are recommended for travel to and within Kenya. We will provide more detailed guidance beforehand to all accepted applicants.

Are Torchbearers Bible schools accredited?

Most of our Bible schools are not accredited, but it is possible that your college or university may award credit or credit hours for your time as a student at one of our centers. Please talk to both your college/university as well as
the center you wish to attend to find out what the possibilities are.

What denomination is Torchbearers?

Torchbearers International is an international, interdenominational organization. If you want to know what we believe, you can read the Torchbearers Statement of Faith.

Can I attend more than one Bible school?

Yes! Many students attend multiple terms (fall, winter, or spring) in the same year, often at different sites. Click here to view the options at other Torchbearers centers around the world.

Is there an application deadline?

There is no application deadline. Applications are accepted until student accommodations are full. Since space is limited and the school will likely fill up, students are encouraged to apply early.

Do you have more questions?

Contact Us

FAQ

 

Where does the name Angaza come from?

Angaza, in Swahili, means “give light” or “illuminate.” The very first Torchbearers students were Germans who came to study in England following WWII. Those students began calling themselves the “Fackeltraeger” or “carriers of the torch,” and so the name “Torchbearers” was born. Angaza carries with it this original intent, that our mission is to equip young people to illuminate the world by bearing the light of Christ.
 

What will be the curriculum and who are the teachers?

During each of the four weeks, we will host two teachers who will instruct on a different topic. Many teachers will do an in-depth study on a book or portion of the Bible (e.g. Genesis, the Gospel of Mark, Paul’s letter to the Galatians). Others will lead a study on a Christian theme (e.g. Christian formation, Christ through the Old Testament, etc.). We are committed to offering an international faculty of world-class teachers, with the goal that half of our teachers would be from the African continent.
 

Who are the students?

We will have a maximum of 40 students. We have reserved 20 spaces for African students and 20 spaces for non- African students in keeping with our vision of this school is to bring together a student group that represents the global church.
 

When will students arrive and depart?

Students traveling from outside Kenya should plan to arrive at the Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Nairobi on Saturday, May 20. Transportation will then be arranged from Nairobi to the school site in Embu. The last day of school will be Friday, June 16.
 

What is the connection between the Crossroads School in Albania and the Angaza School in Kenya?

The Albania school is sponsoring this new spring school in Kenya. With their 20 years of experience, the leadership in Albania has been crucial in applying their knowledge and experience to the creation of this new school.
 

Where is the school located?

Embu is a city of about 65,000 located approximately 125 kilometers (78 mi) northeast of Nairobi towards Mount Kenya. It is the commercial hub of the Central Eastern region of Kenya and provides an avenue for trade, tourism and highway transit between the national capital and the Northern Frontier. Embu is also the site of a large university.
 
The Angaza school will take place at the Shunem Retreat Center (named after the Shunammite woman in 2nd Kings 4), located 5 km outside of Embu. The Center is regionally-known for its beautiful, garden-filled grounds, and will provide a peaceful setting for the school. Students will have plenty of opportunities to explore Embu, the surrounding region, and nearby Mount Kenya.
 

What is the weather like in Kenya in the spring?

The average high this time of year is 75 degrees Fahrenheit (24 Celsius). The average low is 60 degrees Fahrenheit (15 degrees Celsius). May to June marks the end of the wet season, so students should expect some rain.
 

What is the age limit for the school?

We encourage students 18-25 years old to apply. Exceptions may be made for students slightly older. Students must be at least 18 years old or have completed high school (or the equivalent).
 

Can married couples attend the Angaza school?

Yes. We can make arrangements for married couples to be housed together.

In what language will the classes be taught?

Students will need to be proficient in English as all classes will be taught in that language. English, along with Swahili, is a national language in Kenya and widely spoken throughout the country.
 

Will there be opportunities for ministry in the local community?

Yes! One of the key components of the Angaza school will be the opportunity for students to partner with local ministries every week in serving the local community.

What will a normal weekly schedule look like?

Each week, students will have classes in the morning and some evenings. Afternoons are reserved for personal study, recreation, exploration into the local community, school ministry outreach, etc. Students will also meet regularly throughout the week in smaller family groups, and gather as a group for regular worship and devotions. On Saturdays, we will organize outings for students. On Sundays students will worship in a local Kenyan church and have an opportunity for Sabbath rest.

Will students be assigned roommates?

Yes. Each student will have between 1-5 roommates of the same gender.

How much does the school cost?

The cost for non-African students is $1,200. This covers all school-sponsored expenses (see list below), including travel to the school from the airport. Travel to and from Kenya is not included and must be covered by each student. A significant portion of this cost helps subsidize the tuition for African students who, in general, do not have the financial resources to afford this experience. Students may want to bring extra money for optional experiences such as shopping, touring, restaurants, etc.

Included in tuition: housing, all meals, laundry, internet services, required study materials and books, group trips and experiences, travel to and from airport to the school site.

Not included in tuition: airfare, passport and visa expenses, vaccinations, health and accident insurance, postage and phone calls, personal spending money (snacks, medications, toiletries, souvenirs, etc.)

Are alcohol and tobacco permitted?

No. The use of alcoholic beverages and tobacco is NOT permitted for the duration of the Bible School. The reasons for this include cultural sensitivity and a commitment to healthy communal living.

Are pets allowed?

No, we cannot accommodate pets.

Are there scholarships or financial assistance?

There may be some limited financial assistance for students who have specific financial hardship. However, we highly encourage students to seek sponsorship from their local church, family, or wider community.

Will a wildlife safari be included in the school?

We will arrange a safari at some point during the school term, or just after the end of the term, for those students who are interested. This experience is not covered in the cost of the school. Students are certainly welcome to extend their time in Kenya after the school term ends and arrange their own travel experiences. We can provide trusted travel agents who can help with these arrangements.

Can guests visit?

Yes. Accommodations can be made for family or friends to visit for a limited time. Arrangements should be made with the Angaza staff. Guests will be responsible for all their food and lodging expenses.

What sort of travel documents and vaccinations will be needed?

In addition to a valid passport, students will need to apply for and be issued a Kenyan visa. Students will be required to check with their local medical professionals in regards to what vaccinations are recommended for travel to and within Kenya. We will provide more detailed guidance beforehand to all accepted applicants.

Are Torchbearers Bible schools accredited?

Most of our Bible schools are not accredited, but it is possible that your college or university may award credit or credit hours for your time as a student at one of our centers. Please talk to both your college/university as well as
the center you wish to attend to find out what the possibilities are.

What denomination is Torchbearers?

Torchbearers International is an international, interdenominational organization. If you want to know what we believe, you can read the Torchbearers Statement of Faith.

Can I attend more than one Bible school?

Yes! Many students attend multiple terms (fall, winter, or spring) in the same year, often at different sites. Click here to view the options at other Torchbearers centers around the world.

Is there an application deadline?

There is no application deadline. Applications are accepted until student accommodations are full. Since space is limited and the school will likely fill up, students are encouraged to apply early.

 

Do you have more questions?

Contact Us

Registration is now open!

Applications for 2024 will open soon.

If you have any questions, reach out to: udhekryq@aol.com

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