Global Missions rejoices in announcing the appointment of Dave and Bonnie Baylor as missionary apprentices to Kenya.

Dave first felt the call to missions during his involvement with the Navigators at Purdue University. However, at that time Dave felt that God was leading him into professional life as a mechanical engineer. During the next twelve years, Dave was active in the local church through lay church leadership, teaching, and supporting missionaries.

Bonnie grew up in a strong Christian home and attended Peoples Church of God in Decatur, Illinois. Bonnie’s family was always missions-minded, and as a young girl, Bonnie was fascinated by stories about missionaries and their work. In response to her heart’s desire to serve others, Bonnie attended Anderson College where she earned a degree in elementary education. After college, Bonnie served through teaching, social work, and adoption counseling.

In 1999, God called to the Baylors into some form of full-time ministry without revealing the exact shape this would take. Meanwhile, Dave began master’s studies in theology and Bonnie continued to work in hospitality and grief support ministries. In 2001, after being transferred to Indianapolis, Indiana, by Dave’s company, the Baylors met Church of God missionaries Stan and Marion Hoffman. The Hoffmans challenged them with the need for leadership training and development in Africa. After much prayer, it became clear that God was calling them to help equip his church in Africa. Dave completed his theological studies at Anderson University School of Theology and graduated in May 2008

The church in East Africa is very strong and growing, but there is a need and a desire for additional leadership development and training. Kima International School of Theology (KIST) in Kima, Kenya, is one avenue for this training. Over the last ten years, more than two hundred students have been equipped and sent out into the ministry through KIST. However, not everyone can attend the standard residential program due to the cost and family obligations. Therefore, KIST has initiated an Extension Training Program that will take the classes to church leaders in their home areas. This program is conducted in an intensive format, allowing local leaders to get much of the same training available to residential students. Classes are currently being conducted in Uganda and Kenya; KIST plans to expand the program into Tanzania and Zambia.

Dave and Bonnie, along with their two sons, Joshua and Michael will be assigned to Kima International of Theology to minister in teaching and the administration of the extension program. The Baylors anticipate a departure in 2009.

For more information about how you can partner with the Baylors, contact Candy Power at 800-848-2464 or at CPower@chog.org.

Project # 42.1000