MISSION

EAST
AFRICA
KENYA
I5S
Co VT\f-y
/Tt'}
Love reaches out
. . . from the
space age
to the
stone age.
Dick preaches to a Pokot raiding party. Some of these
warriors hear the gospel for the very first time.
A young girl undergoing tribal rites.
. . . with a
timeless gospel
for a forgotten
people.
MIKE AND LINDA COURTNEY
Mike was born May 4, 1950. In 1963, he went with hi.s parents as missionaries to
Africa, where they worked in a remote bush area of Rhodesia. In 1969, Mike began his
Biblecollegetraining at Puget Sound Collegeof the Biblein Seattle, Washington. He
and Linda >vere married in 1971 and in 1972 returned for a summer internship to
work with Mike's parents in Rhodesia. In 1973 Mike graduated with honors from
PSCB. Mike is experienced in bush living and also has experience and training in
church planting and leadership training among African tribal people. He has worked
as a mechanic for eight years in the States. Mike has also served as associate minister in
the Southside Church of Christ in Anacortes, Washington; worked with youth groups
in the Overlake Christian Church in Kirkland, Washington; and the McKinley Park
Christian Church in Tacoma, Washington. He is currently .serving as a deacon and
trustee in the West Salem Christian Church. Mike was ordained at Court Street
Christian Church in Salem, Oregon in March of 1974.
Linda was born July 24, 1951 to Glen and Margie Morley of Salem, Oregon. In
1969she began her two years of Biblecollege training at Puget Sound Collegeof the
Bible. Linda also has three years of nurse's training and is licensed to practice as a
Registered Nurse. Linda is certified by the International Childbirth Education
Association and has been teaching Lamaze childbirth classes for the past four years.
During their summer internship in Rhodesia in 1972, Linda worked in a mission
clinic.
Mike and Linda have two children: Trevor, born March 8, 1975; and Laura,
born September 2, 1977.
PROJECTED BUDGET 1980
COURTNEY CHRISTIAN MISSION
Salary $10800
Schooling for Trevor 100
Household 2000
Utilities 490
Vehicle
Gas and Oil 2500
Maintenance 600
Tires and Tubes 500
Insurance 400
License and Fees 100
Total Vehicle 4100
Station Development 2000
Staff Wages 1500
Schools 600
Bore Holes 50
Medical Supplies 600
Special Projects 400
Pastor's Motor Bikes 125
Teaching Materials 200
Tools, Equipment 200
Postage and Customs 330
Office Supplies 125
Promotion, Film, Newsletter 575
Missionary Guest House Nairobi 300
Language School 150
Furlough Fund 1200
Total $25,845
OUTGOING BUDGET
Vehicle $8000
Outfitting of Vehicle 700
Shipping 5000
Vehicle, Supplies and Personal Effects
Air Travel 3000
Equipment and Supplies 2500
Clothing and Personal Effects 500
$19,700
Address:
Courtney Christian Mission
P.O. Box 2053
Salem, Oregon 97308
Forwarding Agents:
Cliff and Carole Bowen
A Ministry to the
Forgotten People of Africa , . .
In Western Kenya along the Uganda border a tribe of people known as thePokot (Suk)
live much as they lived 1,000 years ago. They are primitive, semi-nomadic people,
fierce warriors who battle with neighboring tribes over cattle ownership. About
20,000 pepole live in this remote area where they follow their cattle in search of
pasture and water. They are a hidden people, virtually untouched by the gospel or any
benefits of civilization.
How It All Began . . .
One national pastor, Andrew Kendagor, had moved into the heart of Kara Pokot in
1972. He and his father had a vision of reaching these people with the gospel of Jesus
Christ. In the fall of 1974 Andrew's health had broken, his children were suffering
from sickness and discouragement had set in when Satan dealt a final blow. Andrew's
father, George Kendagor, was returning from taking supplies to Andrew when his
Land Rover was swept off the road by a swollen river. George escaped, but when the
waters went down, the vehicle was completely buried in the sand of the river bottom.
Andrew, his wife Sara and their six children had lost their only source of supplies and
help. They were 130 miles out in the wilderness, cut off from the world.
The Kendagors had begun to pray . . . and as they prayed, on the other side of the
world the Hamilton family turned their thoughts toward Kenya as a possibleplace of
service. Dick arrived in Kenya on a survey trip in February and was directed to
George Kendagor as a guide. When Dick visited Kara Pokot he knew that God had led
him to that place. (It was no surprise to George that Dick was a mechanic with the
ability to recover his Land Rover from the river bed, rebuild it and restore it to use.
Everyone had told him it couldn't be done . . . but HE HAD PRAYED.)
The faith and vision of this African family had opened a door for the gospel and God
put together a team to do the job.
A Door Opens . . . and a Ministry to a Stone Age People Begins
The first trips into Kara Pokot by these strange white-skinned people in their big red
and white Land Cruiser brought them only fleeting glimpses of black shadows dashing
off into the bush, but no real contact with the people.
Then God began to open more doors. The people's desperate need for water led Dick
to begin repairing the old broken pumps that had been put on bore hole wells by the
British in the 1950s. The people came, first the women and then the men; first out of
curiosity and then out of gratitude, to watch this big man with the red hair bringing
water out of the ground for their families and their herds. And from then on the
strangerswere welcomed. (continuedon page 12)
GREAT NEED . . .
GREAT OPPORTUNITY
. . for I was sick and
you came unto me."
But the Pokot people have no money
and they have no place to go for
help. No doctor. No hospital. No
clinic.
Christian compassion demands we
respond to this need.
Vitamins for malnutrition.
MEDICAL WORK
A dollar's worth of medicine can
save a life. A 50-cent tube of
ointment can save a child's sight.
A sick baby receives medicine.
"I was thirsty
and you gave me drink . . .
99
Tl (
' "^k / '
The women dig in the dry river beds
for water. Some holes are 15 feet
deep; cave-ins are frequent.
About 30 wells were drilled in the
Kara Pokot area in the 1950s. When
the Hamiltons arrived only 3 or 4
wells were still pumping.
The desperate need for water made
this a natural open door into the
community. Repairing the pumps
won acceptance and provided a
natural place to communicate the
gospel to the people as they come to
the bore holes for water.
A repaired pump means fresh clean wat
Repairing a broken pump on a bore
hole.
((
I was in prison
and you visited me .
SCHOOLS I
Thousands of young minds are
locked in the dark prison of ignor
ance and superstition.
Boarding schools provide an answer
to reaching the children of semi- I
nomadic parents. They receive Bible |
lessons in the classroom and lots of I
Christian teaching in off hours. I
The Kenya government supplies |
teachers, books and paper. The local
people help put up the building. The
mission supplies food, uniforms,
blankets and dishes.
"I was hungry
and you gave me food.
99
The first students at Kiwawa school.
A child in the boarding school can be
fed for as little as $3.00 per month on
their staple diet of maize meal mush.
Hamiltons are distributors for "Food
for the Hungry" surplus relief food
which is used to supplement the diet
for the boarding schools.
Baby food received from Food for
the Hungry.
"I was naked
and you clothed me . . .
>9
"Inasmuch as
you did it
unto the least
of these . . . you
did it unto ME."
Matthew 25
New uniforms from Christian
friends in America.
"Go and make disciples of all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father
and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, . . .
George Kendagor baptizing a young convert at Kapengurla.
. . teaching them to observe all things
that I have commanded you."
Matthew 28:19
Jane teaches a women's group at
Kanyarkwet.
Dick preaching near Kapenguria.
Nathaniel Kendagor interprets.
AFRICAN PASTORS
These dedicated men are committed
to reaching their own countrymen
for Christ. They are Bible college-
trained and are themselves mission
aries, having crossed cultural and
tribal barriers to preach Christ to the
Pokot people.
Andrew Kendagor, Sara and their
children.
The gospel can be communicated
more effectively by these pastors
who speak the language and under
stand the culture of the Pokot tribal
people, than by the white "foreign"
missionary. The missionaries find
that by working as support people
for the Africans they can multiply
the outreach and do it in a more
effective way.
Pastor John Mosonik, Nancy and
Kenneth.
PURPOSE
Our aim is to help establish New Testament churches. We want them to be self-
standing as soon as possible and this fact influences our methods. We are working with
and through nationals so the dependence is on African leadership. We refuse to
"westernize" with big station compounds or transplanting a small America into the
bush of Africa. Rather we are trying to plant the church so it becomes a part of their
culture and fits into their way of life. The only change we seek is what comes as a
natural result of the power of Jesus Christ interacting in the lives of those who come to
know Him, through the influence of the Holy Spirit.
(continued from page 5)
The second door to open was in ministering to medical needs. The Hamiltons had no
medical training, but people came expecting help. Things as simple as hydrogen
peroxide and Tetracycline worked miracles against tropical skin ulcers and a blinding
eye disease called trachoma. The infant mortality rate is high (estimated 8 out of 10
don't make it). The heartbreak is having someone walk miles seeking help only to find
no real help available; mothers with babies in their arms so near death that simple
medication could not help. Aclinic and a nurse were needed . . . the Hamiltons began
to pray, and God supplied Diane Messick, a nurse with 5 years experience in Rhodesia.
And God challenged Mike and Linda Courtney to join the Kara Pokot work. Mike is a
second-generation missionary, having several years experience with his parents in
Rhodesia. Linda is an R.N. with specialty in prenatal and childbirth. Mike and
Linda's abilities would double the effectiveness of the missionary team. PTL!
First Fruits
In 1977 the first Church of Christ station was opened at Kiwawa, Kara Pokot, with a
small school and a resident witness, pastor John Mosonik.
The responsiveness of the people was thrilling, in attendance at worship services and
interest in the gospel. By using the Pokot concept of God and their practices of animal
sacrifices as a starting point, bridges were built to the scriptural teaching of God and
the sacrifice of the lamb of God.
An annual Christmas celebration was begun to try to give the community a Christ-
centered alternative to their pagan tribal ceremonies. At the 1978 Christmas celebra
tion Andrew Kendagor preached to a crowd of about 250, relating their own tribal
purification rites after a warrior killed someone in battle to the cleansing purification
of sin of the shed blood of Jesus Christ. Twenty people came forward to indicate their
desire to become followers of Jesus Christ.
One of the tribal elders said, "We all want to believe." Pray God that we would see
that harvest . . . that ALL would believe.
The Door Opens Wider . . .
Now other tribal chiefs are extending the invitation for gospel teaching to be brought
to their areas in the hills surrounding Kiwawa. National pastors are volunteering to go
to these areas. Several Pokot young men who are completing Bible college are longing
to go to their own people with the gospel.
THE NEED IS GREAT . . . THE OPPORTUNITY IS EVEN GREATER. Pray God
for partners, at home and abroad, to sustain this new work.
Lift up your eyes . . . the fields are white already unto harvest."
KENYA GOVERNMENT
The government of Kenya is one of the most stable in Africa. They received their
independence from the British after the Mau Mau uprising of the late 1950s. Since that
time there has been peace and a strong bond of friendship with the United States and
other Western countries. When the Father of the Country, Jomo Kenyatta, died at age
88, there were rumors of problems, but the Vice President, Daniel arap Moi, took over
the country calmly and confidently with the full support of the Kenya people. There is
great respect for Christianity and full cooperation from tlie Kenya government
towards mission work.
The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me;
Because the Lord hath anointed me
to preach good tidings unto the meek . . .
to bind up the brokenhearted,
to proclaim liberty to the captives . . .
to comfort all that mourn . . .
To give them
beauty for ashes,
the oil of joy for mourning,
the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness;
That they might be called
trees of righteousness,
the planting of the Lord,
THAT HE MIGHT BE GLORIFIED.
Isaiah 61:1-3
MISSION SERVICES ASSOCIATION
For office use only;
PERSONAL FILE FORM
Date Sent; 5 I97P
Dale Rec'cf: ^ J97Q
Information from tfiis form will appear in Horizons and other infor
mation formats published by Mission Services Association.
This form is prepared to help you give accurate background informa
tion about yourself and your mission work.
'Please type or print clearly 'Do not abbreviate
'Please do not write on this form anything otherthan that requested. Attach extra sheets for additional information you may want to provide.
This is not an application form. It is not an official form endorsing you and your work. It is simply a worksheet designed to help us publicize
your work that may help produce new friends for you, prayers and financial assistance. If any questions seem too personal or seem offensive
to you, please feel free to leave them blank.
Date: March
(Month
21 1979
Day Year)
Name In full .
Spell out all names
Michap^l Th
Middle Name
urtney
Last Name
Complete address on field:
c/q Dick Hamilton P.O. Box 900 j A-Frit-.a
(Number - Street City - State Zip number - Country)
Phone number on field: In Case of Emergency call # : ^
Ask for:
(First - Middle - Last name and address)
Your complete address while in USA: residence: 425 Cameo St. Salem, OR 97304
(Number - Street City - State - Zip)
Permanent mailing address: P.O. Box 2053. Salem. OR. 97308
Your USA phone number: area code __5-Q3 phone number 585-1443
Name and address of Livinglink church or churches:
West Salem Christian Church Number &Street 1155 Glen Creek Rd. N,W.
(Full name ot church)
City Sal pm State Orp>gnn Zip Q73n4
(Full name of church)
City:
Number & Street
State Zip
Names and addresses of other sponsoring churches whose elders recommend you: see attached
explanation
Number & Street
(Full name of church)
City: State Zip
(Full name ol church)
City:
Number & Street
State Zip
Please send letters of recommendation from the elders In
your sponsoring churches which will encourage other
churchestosupportyourmissionary work. Certainly the
words of these elders will help to convince others
regarding the worthiness of your mission work. Please
help MSA to spread your news through HORIZONS by
sending these elders' letters from your sponsoring
churches as soon as possible. MSA will be happy to help
you contact these elders if you will send the full
addresses of the churches.
Please sketch a map directing visitors to your location on the mission field.
sorry, but we don't know how to
get there yet ourselves, so I
don't think we would be much help
in directing another person.
Recommendations by Christian Leaders: (List names here and enclose a copy of each letter.)
Name: Hubert Prather Number & Street 1155 Glen Creek Rdt
City: Salem State Oregon Zip 97304
Name Stan Henderer
nity Clancy
Number &Street Blue Sky Height:s
Place of RirthM^mnri
(Number & Street)
Date of birth
May
(Month)
(Add date of arrival
(Month)
if applicable.)
(Year)
City pam
4 1950
(Day) (Year)
State
(Day) (Year)
Where baptized? Beaverton Christian Church
City Beaverton State
Montana
Zip
59634
State Zip
and naturalization date
(Month)
Date Feb. 1959
Zip
(Day)
On an extra sheet please describe any details regarding your conversion which you might care to mention..
MARITAL STATUS:
Married _JS Single Divorced Widowed
Please give the complete name of your husband or the maiden name of your wife T.inHa T.<ag> MnrTp>y
, Where married? Salem, OR
Date of marriage July 2, 1971
(Month) (Day) (Year)
Thomas Courtney
Who solemnized your wedding?
List children by full name giving the place, birthday, month and year inthe order of your children's birth days. (Ifyour
children have been adopted please indicate.) In case you are single, please list your brothers and sisters by name in
this space.
Name Place of birth
Trevor Shawn K1 rk 1 j l-JA
Laura Dawn Salem^ OR
Month,
Maroh
Day
ft
Year
1975
1977
Please list places of previous Christian service and what service you did as a brief career summary. Give
approximate dates:
Place Position Service Dates
Rhodesia, Africa son of missionary preacher training &L963-1969
equipment maintenance
McKinlev Park Church vouth leader junior aae
Tacoma, WA
wleidi- Phrj <:;ti ;=in ymThb 1q.afiie>r Kp'3rfn-<P>r
deacon, trustee
Number of years
1
1970-1972
1Q7fi ho prpaspant
Degrees granted and date
(List honorary degrees)
diploma 1968
1 <^7-^
EDUCATION (high school and later):
Name of school Location
Beaverton HighSchooly Beaverton, OR
Pngpt r_n1 1 n-F -t-bfa Rihlia
Willamette. University. Salem^ OR currently taking Swahili classes.
What influenced you to become a missionary? My parents were missionaries in Rhodesia.
While there I discovered I had many talents that were useful in this field,
I have always had a desire to serve God and He has opened many doors
which have led me back to the mission field in Africa.
What is your purpose in missions? Or what do you hope to accomplish on the mission
field?
Your own explanation In some detail might be influential in leading others into full-time service. (Use extra sheets if
you need more space): My primary goal is to help establish the indigenous
church, where each congregation supports itself, provides its own leaders:,
ar>d "hog-ing tp establish and disciple new congregations.
Describe briefly in outline form the nature of your daily duties on the field:
Which of the following terms most nearly describes your missionary status?
Evangelist X Bible College Teacher Bible Reader Public School Teacher Pilot
Homemaker Doctor Nurse Social Worker Music Teacher Radio
ministry Radio follow-up Christian Service Camp Linguistics Maintenance of
mission equipment X Maintenance x Benevolent X Office Work Production of Bible
Correspondence Courses
Evangelism X Name other: T.iaadt^^reghi p f-rai n-i ng
Production of Christian literature in the National Language
Languages you know (fluent/non-fluent)
Swahili (non-fluent)
Village
PARENTS:
Father's name and his home address: ^
Living
_X Deceased Number &Street ^.s Box 47
City Alldays , state Transvaal zip 0909 Phone
South Africa
His occupation missionary Is he a Christian? Yes X No
What positions of leadership has he held in the local church? rninister, missionary
What Christian service does he now do? missionary.
Mother's full maiden name Frances Viola Tallman
(First - Middle Last namo)
Living X Deceased Number &Street same as father
nity ^ State Zip Phone
Is she a Christian? Yes ^ No Her occupation if employed outside the
home
What leadership positions or Christian service has she rendered to the local church? numerous
Do you have relatives in mission work? Yes ^ No
if so, please list their names, location, kinship and details on a separate sheet with a brief explanation of their
missionary activity. parents, see above
FORWARDING AGENT:
Name Cliff and Carole Bowen
^^trs( - Middle Last name. II applicable, Hal both Mr. and Mrs. lull names.)
Number and Street P 0 Box 2053 ^, City S^leip
State
Oregon zip 97308 Phone 581-9055
Where attend church? VJest Salem Christian Church
(Full name ol church)
Number &Street 1155 Glen Ck Qjty Salem State Zip 97304
What duties are performed by the forwarding agent? Receive and deposit money^ file tax.
forms, pay nursing license fees, answer inquires about missions, etc.
Should money be sent to the forwarding agent only? After we arrive Qd the field, ves.
Before that time it may be sent directly to us., ,
Does the forwarding agent receive a salary? no in what form should funds be sent? cnecK
Please give the full name of the mission: Courtney ChristianNission
Does the mission have official tax exempt status? .Y^s ,throughWest Salem Christian Church.
It is legally considered to be an Auxiliary of,the Church. , . .
Please give details of HOW checks should be written to this mission: either "Courtney Christian Missic
or through your church and designated for "Courtney Christian Mission"
If funds are to be sent directly to the missionary on the mission field, please explain the details of HOW to do it, so we
can give your explanation to HORIZONS readers and others who may inquire
Mission Services Association is depending upon you to keep her informed regarding your missionary activity.
Thanks so very much; you are the BEST source for your information we know, so you are a vital partner.
. If you have additional information that you think will be helpful to the staff of MSAin preparing news stories about
your ministry, please feel free to send it. MSA is depending upon you. Thanks.
MISSION SERVICES ASSOCIATION
For office use only:
PERSONAL FILE FORM
Date Sent:
6 197?
Date Rec'd: APf^
ma
Information from this form will appear in Horizons and other infor
mation formats published by Mission Services Association.
This form is prepared to help you give accurate background informa
tion about yourself and your mission work.
please type or print clearly *Do not abbreviate
"Please do not write on this form anything other than that requested. Attach extra sheets for additional information you may want to provide.
This is not an application form. It is not an official form endorsing you and your work. It is simply a worksheet designed to help us publicize
your work that may help produce new friends for you, prayers and financial assistance. If any questions seem too personal or seem offensive
to you, please feel free to leave them blank.
Date:
March 22, 1979_
Ai/r/.
Name In full _
Spell out all names
Linda
First Name
(Month Day
Lee
Middle Name
Courtney
Complete address on field: c/o Dick Hamilton P Q, Box 900 Kitale^ Kenya
(Number - Street City State Zip number Country)
Phone number on field: In Case of Emergency call # ; unknown
Ask for:
(First Middle - Last name and address)
Year)
Your completeaddress while In USA: residence: 425 Cameo St N.W Salem^ OR 97304
(Number - Street - City State - Zip)
Permanent mailing address; P. 0. Box 2053, Salem, Oregon 97308
Your USA phone number: area code 503 phone number 585'"1443
Name and address of LIvinglink church or churches:
West Salem Christian Church Number &Street 1155 Glen Creek Rd. N.W.
RtatP Oregon ^ip 97304
City
(Full name ol church)
Salem
(Full name ol church)
City:
Number & Street
State Zip
Names and addresses of other sponsoring churches whose elders recommend you: see attached letter
for explanation
(Full name ol church)
Number & Street
City: State Zip
(Full name of church)
Number & Street
City: State Zip
Please send letters of recommendation from the elders in
your sponsoring churches which will encourage other
churches to support your missionary work. Certainly the
words of these elders will help to convince others
regarding the worthiness of your mission work. Please
help MSA to spread your news through HORIZONS by
sending these elders' letters from your sponsoring
churches as soon as possible. MSA will be happy to help
you contact these elders if you will send the full
addresses of the churches.
Recommendations by Christian Leaders: (List names here and enclos^^ctgy^^ College
Name: Hfarh Wnrks Number & Street 828 E 11th Ave.
Please sketch a map directing visitors to your location on the mission field
City: Eugene, OR State Oregon
Puget Sound College of the Bible
Name Dan Burris or John Parish Number &Street
City Edmonds State
410 Fourth Ave
^^fashington ^ip
Place of Birth Memorial Hosp, City Salem
(Number Street)
namnfhirth July 24, 1951 ,
(Month) (Day) (Year)
(Add date of arrival
State
and naturalization date
97401
:g
N.
98020
Zip
(Month) (Day) (Year) (Month)
(Year)
if applicable.)
(Day)
Where baptized? Liberty Christian Church
City Selem State
Qate unknown-I was 10 years old
Oregon 97302
Zip
On an extra sheet please describe any details regarding your conversion which you might care to mention..
MARITAL STATUS:
Married
X
Single Divorced Widowed
Please give the complete name of your husband or the maiden name of your wife Michael Thomas Courtney
Date of marriage July 2^ 1971 ^ Where married? Salem, OR
(Month) (Day) (Year)
Who solemnized your wedding? Thomas N. Courtney
List children by full name giving the place, birthday, month and yearintheorderofyourchildren'sbirth days. (Ifyour
children have been adopted please Indicate.) In case you are single, please list your brothers and sisters by name in
this space.
Name Place of birth Month, Day Year
Laura Dawn Salem, OR September 2, 1977
Please list places of previous Christian service and what service you did as a brief career summary. Give
approximate dates:
Place Position Service Dates
vJQst Salem Christian ChurchSunday School teacher, Pximary and Beginner
Choir member, Librarian, member of Ladies' trio,
piani.'^t, .gong leader, co-founder of library,
nursery organizer, VBS co-director, Jr. Church
\p,p. organj.zer of building clean-
ing and communion preparation, Vice-president of
:jorngn-* s group-,- -gtcr^- - May 1976 to present
hi-Ne-Ma Christian Camp Camp nurse and counselor I've run out of room!
EDUCATION (high school and later):
Name of school Location Number of years
Degrees granted and date
(List honorary degrees)
Bellevue Community College. Sellevue. WA three^ Associate of Arts (nursing)
June 1974 7
Puget Snund Colle^gp of thf^ Bible , tWQ , none
South Salem High School Salem, OR three , diploma 1969
currently taking Swahili at Willamette University. I've also taken numerous
nursing continuing education coursesfirst aid courses, nyrsing^arid. childbirt]
seminars and workshmps, and X am certified by.the International,Childbirth
What influenced you to become a missionary?EniirRri on Assnri ar.i nn. ^
Primarily my husband (I bet that's a new one for you!). However, I had decided
in hiqh^school during a summer camp that if it were God's will I would be wil
ling to go to the foreign mission field"except not to Africathey have
snakes there."
What is your purpose in missions? Or what do you hope to accomplish on the mission
field?
Your own explanation in some detail might be influential in leading others into full-time service. (Use extra sheets if
vnn nppri mnrp<5narpvMy Primary goal on the mission field is to be a support person
' P mi/'Viiie'KanH pnH fhnlH r'cin "in rjT-Hfar' ho 'Kohhiar' ariPhlA mV hllff
for my husband and children in order to better enable my hus
band to carry on the work that I believe God has called him to Kenya to do.
However, it is my hope and we "are p'lanning" that I aTso he able ho carry on
some work of my own in the area of supplying the medical needs of the people.
WfP hn^p to 1 c;h rlTnir whirh T>7on1 H ba cha-F-Fod -Finih-imo by a r^^hinnpl
dresser. My training is in the area of childbirth, so I hope to be able to
Describe briefly in outline form the nature of your daily duties on the field: itR?^r,h classgs in prf^n?<tgl
' icare, nutrition, well child
I expect that I will wash a lot of dirty dishes hygiene.
and wipe a lot of runny noses, but if that helps to further the frowth of
Christianity in Kenya, then I will gladly fl'o it. (see attached sheet)
Which of the following terms most nearly describes your missionary status?
Evangelist Bible College Teacher Bible Reader Public School Teacher Pilot.
Homemaker XX Doctor Nurse XX Social Worker Music Teacher Radio
ministry Radio follow-up Christian Service Camp Linguistics Maintenance of
mission equipment Maintenance Benevolent _X Office Work ^ Production of Bible
Correspondence Courses Production of Christian literature in the National Language Village
Evangelism Name other:
Languages you know (fluent/non-fluent) Swahili(non-fluent)
PARENTS:
Father's name and his home address:
Living ^ Deceased Number &Street 2752 Cole Rd. S.E.
City ^alem State Oregon z\p 9*7302 Rhone 364-2323
His occupation supeJ^intendent of construction |g he a Christian? Yes No JL
What positions of leadership has he held in the local church? n^ne
What Christian service does he now do? rione
Mother's full maiden name Margie Pea Niles
(First Middio Last name)
Living ^ Deceased Number &Street 2752 Cole Rd. 3*E.
City Saleitt RtatP Oregon 7ip 97302 phnnp 3642323
Y
Is she a Christian? Yes No Her occupation if employed outside the
home Grocery Clerk
What leadership positions or Christian service has she rendered to the local church? teacher, officer
in women's group, etc.
Do you have relatives in mission work? Yes ^ No
If so, please list their names, location, kinship and details on a separate sheet with a brief explanation of their
Tom and Fran Courtney in-laws work in Botswana
missionary activity.
I also have a cousin who's brother-in-law works with Toronto Christian
FORWARDING AGENT: Mission
Name Cliff and Rowf^n
(First Middle Last name. It applicable, list both Mr. and Mrs. full names.)
Number and Street 0., Box 12053.'j, . ^ City Salem
QtatP Oregon Zip-^ZIOS Phone 581-9055
Where attend church? West Salem Christian Church
(Full name of church)
Number &Street 1155 Glen Ck. city Salem state Oregon zip 97304
What duties are performed by the forwarding agent? Receive and deposit money, file tax
forms, pay nursing license fees, answer inquiries about missions, etc.
Should money be sent to the forwarding agent only? After we arrive on the rreld, yes,
Does the forwarding agent receive a salary? _J1P In what form should funds be sent? check
Please give the full name of the mission: Courtney Christian Mission
Does the mission have official tax exempt status? Yes, through West Salem Christiai Church
It is legally considered an Auxiliary of the church
Please give details of HOW checks should be written to this mission: either "Courtney Christian
Mission," or through your church and designated "Courtney Christian Mission"
If funds are to be sent directly to the missionary on the mission field, please explain the details of HOW to do it, so we
can give your explanation to HORIZONS readers and others who may inquire
Mission Services Association is depending upon you to keep her informed regarding your missionary activity.
Thanks so very much; you are the BEST source for your information we know, so you are a vital partner.
If you have additional information that you think will be helpful to the staff of MSA in preparing news stories about
your ministry, please feel free to send it. MSA is depending upon you. Thanks.
Continuation of "Purpose in Missions" and "Daily Duties;."
IVhen I was younger I used to think that I would go to the mission
field and "save the world." Since that time, however,, I have talked to
many missionary wives^ and read a lot of books on missions. I'm afraid
I don't have such high aspirations now. I discovered that it probably
was not God's will for my life that I save the world. I believe tht
God is more concerned that I be faithful in the "little" things he has
given me to do. God has given me a wonderful, talented husband. How
ever, my husband!'s talents do not include baking chocolate cakes, washing
dishes, sewing clothes, and changing diapers (although he can do pretty
well in a pinch). It is my observation, however, that my husband does
not function well without food, clothing, and someone to care for his
children. The miracle of it all is that God has especially gifted me
with these talents to better enable my husband to carry on the work
which God has intended him to do.
I expect that my daily duties in Africa will be very similar in
many ways to those which I perform here. One unusual task I have done
today is. to sing. I imagine that I have sung "Jesus Loves the Little
Ones Like Me Me Me," "This Little Light of Mine," and "Jesus Loves Me"
at least 50 times today. These are the favorite songs of our 18-month
pld daughter and she can become very irate if I don't sing for her on
cue. I imagine that I will probably do a lot of singing in Africa, too.
Aside from my "motherly" and l^wifely" duties, there are other goals
which I have for myself in Kenya. The infant mortality rate in the area^^
in which we will be working is estimated at as: high as 8 out of 10.
Many people also have an eye disease which leads to blindness. Once
these people become blind, they are taken out in the bush and left to
die, because the society cannot support a blind, non-productive person.
Not long ago one of the local African preachers found a small child
who had been left in the bush because he was blind. Knowledge, proper
prenataH and child care, and better hygiene can help to bring down the
infant mortality rate. The eye disease can be arrested by the simple
administration of tetracycline eye ointment. God has given me the '
ability to do these thingshow on earth could I refuse an African wo
man whom I have yet to meet the joy of having healthy children such as
those God has given to me?
Another goal I have is that of education. I hope to be able to
teach hygiene and child care classes. Last Sunday afternoon during
our ^w^i.li- lesson our teacher said something which hit me so strongly
tITaf I was compelled to write it down: "If they have a cooking pot,
don't give them a frying pan because they won't have a stove. Teach
them to use the cooking pot in a healthy manner." When we go to Kara \ "S
Pokot, we don't want to teach the people to become American Christians.]]
We want to teach them to be Christians in their present culturein
their everyday life. We want to teach them to "use their cooking pot
in a healthy manner."
Courtney x'o Zenya (April 5 >79
( iicture
The Hichael Courtney family plan
departixre for Kenya, Africa in December,
1979* They started raising their
living-link and service-link in
March, 1979* Thay have both h^d
experience on the mission field and
have been preparing themselves for
more than ten years with education,
internship in Africa, reading books
and keeping contact v/ith missionaries
on the fields. They were scluool-mates
with Dick and Mrs. Jane Hamilton. The
Hamlltons have opened a new field in
the Rift Valley of Western Kenya.
Kara Pokot is an area approximately
55 by 80 miles and fairly close to the
Uganda border. There arc- about 20,000
Pokot people living in an almost stone
age setting. There has been no
mission activity in this area \mtil
the Hamiltonc. surveyed it and began
their work there. Until recently this
area was under the ^jurisdiction of the
Uganda government. It is a remote
area. Ilamiltona have helped to stsirt
two churches: one 75 and the other
50 in average attendance. There are
( Page - 2 - Coiirtney To Kenya - Apr. 5,79
two African preachers serving in
this area.
Dick and I^-rs. Jane Hami^'ton
recommend the Courtneys in this letter;
" It is our Joy and privilege to
welcome Kike and Linda Courtney to
the lord's v/ork in Western Kenya.
Their decision to Join us in missionary
service is the answer to our prayers
which have been going before the lord
fr;r r.omG years. Ve first became
acquainted with Kike and Linda when
we were students togetVier at Luget
Sound College of the Bible, next door
neigbbors, and colaborers in a
student ministry. We have been deeply
impressed with their abilitjiee and
their dedication.
Hike's talents
fit perfectly the needs of the Kenya
field. He has strong BibJe knowledge
for the African leadership training
we arc. involved in and he has mechanical
and practical abilities that fit so
well the pliloneering v/ork we are doing
in Kara l-okot. Linda's nurses training
in an answer to prayer for an area
where the nearest medical help is over
ft 100 miles away and the needs of the
( Page - 5 - Courtney To Kenya - Apr. 5,79 vrai)
people are desperate. Her teaching
ability will be well used in the
wonien's work for Bible teaching and
instructions mothers in prenatal and
child care. We have asked then to
work with us not only because of their
high qualifications but also because
of their stability and personal
conmitnent of life. We know from
experience that our families can
work together as an effecient,
compatible team."
Michael Thomas Courtney was born
May 4, 1950 in Salem, Ore. to Thomas
ITelson and firs. Trancis V. Coiu'tney-
minister and missionary now in Botswana,
Africa. Mike was graduated from
high school at Beaverton, Ore. in
1968. He iiad fotxr years at Puget
Sound College of the Bible at Seattle,
Wash, (now moved to Edmonds, Wash.)
and he was graduated with the B.C.
degree in 1975 He has also studied
at Willamette University, Salem, Ore.
are
and they/now studying the Swahili
language tutored by a well educated
man from Kenya, Africa. The eldere
and the minister of Vest Salem Christian
( rage ^ - Courtney To Kenya - Apr. 579
Church, oalein, Ore. recommend this
couple. Other area churchec are
planning to support their niocion
work also. Hike started preaching
and missionary service in hbodesia
in 1963 and he has served in
Washington and Oregon.
Mrs. Linda lee Morley Courtney
was horn July 1951 iii Salem,
Ore. to Glen V. and Mrs. Margie D.
Morley. After completing high school
in 1969 in Galera, Ore. she had two
years at luget Gound College of the
Bible. Then, she had three years at
Eellevue Community College, Bellevue,
Wash, and received the Associate of
Arts degree in nursing in June, 197^*
She has had numerous nursing continuing
education courses, first aid courses,
nursing and childbirth seminars and
workshops and she is Certified by
the International Childbirth Education
Association. Ghe has been active in
the West Galem Christian Church and
she sei-ved as camp nurse at V/i-Ne-Ma
Christian Service Camp. She married
Mike on July 2, 1971 at oalem, Ore.
with Thomas N. Courtney officiating.
(R Page - 5 - Courtney To Kenya - Apr. 5? 79 Wi31)
They have two children: Trevor uhawn
Courtney bom l arch 8, 1975 at Kirkland,
Wash, and Laura Dawn Courtney bom
September 9, 1977 at Salem, Ore.
Linda shares Kike's aim to help
establish the indigenous church in
Eenay: where each congregation
supports itself, provides its own
leaders and establishes new congregations.
ihmds may be sent tliTough their
for-A-ar-ding agents: Courtney Christian
Kission, Cliff and Kre. Carole Bowen,
P.O. Box 2053, Calem, OR 9758 phone
(505) 581-9055. Their present address
is: Mike and Mrs. Idnda Courtney, ^25
Cameo Street, N.W., Salem, OR 9730A
phone (505) 585-1^5. Their field
address next year will be: c/o Dick
Kamilton, 1.0. Dox 900, Kitale, Kenya,
East Africa.
X The End hr-}!
^' / i>ST
ANSWERS TO QUESTIONNAIRE April 1979
1. Are you a member of a missionary association which operates
within the country of your work?
Yes. The association with which we will be working is the
Associated Christian Churches of Kenya. 'We have a copy of the
constitution for this organization and will send you a photo
copy if you desire.
The Kenya government does not allow missionaries to work
"independently." All missionaries must be associated with an
organization v/hich is recognized by the government'(the govern
ment is Christian, by the way). In addition, no missionary
or group of missionaries can go to the country and 'form their
own organization. All missionaries must work with an already
existing organization. We feel very fortunate in being asked
to work with the ACCK. It is the only organization in Kenya
who's primary goal is the establishment of New Testament,
Restoration Movement Christian Churches.
2. State the organization's name and stateside address.
Associated Christian Churches of Kenya. No stateside address.
The missionaries who work v/ith the ACCK are considered to be
independent in the sense that they are not all governed by the
same missions board headquartered in the States and they are
are responsible for raising their own support from individual
Christian Churches/Churches of Christ. There are four missionary
families associated with the ACCK at this time: Dick Hamilton
and family from Medford, Oregon; Roy Lane and family from
Central Point, Oregon; Diane Messick, a registered nurse from
Ohio, and ourselves. The ACCK was founded by Frank Remple
when he was the only Christian Church missionary in Kenya.
Frank and Marie retired this past year and then Frank died
last Fall, however Marie is still involved in the ACCK.
Each of the missionaries have a board made up of men
from their primary supporting churches. Our board (Courtney
Christian Mission) has a charter and bylaws drawn up by an
attorney and is legally considered to be an auxiliary of the
West Salem Christian Church, enabling us to be a tax-exempt
organization.
\
3. What is your (or your organization's) key purpose and major
goals? Please include a timetable relating to your major
goals.
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES OF THE ASSOCIATED CHRISTIAN CHURCHES OF
KENYA:
(a) to promote and foster by all proper means the spread of
the Christian Gospel and in this way to do our part to
establish the Kingdom of God on earth and in the hearts
of men, specifically in the country of Kenya.
(b) to establish and maintain, as a non-profit organization,
a legal status in Kenya.
(c) to act as a point of contact with the Kenya government
on behalf of the various subsidiary and affiliated
ANSV/ERS TO QUESTIONNAIRE Page 2
bodies which are working in various parts of Kenya,
and to represent them as it may be possible and
necessary.
(d) to sponsor the entrance into Kenya of Christian workers
from other countries and to assist them as necessary in
the procuring of work permits.
(e) to hold property in trust on behalf of itself and of
the subsidiary and related bodies as it may be considered
necessary.
(f) to serve as a "conference" of the related bodies with
each other for the purpose of fellowship, for establish
ing and coordinating general mission policy, and for
mutual assistance through regularly scheduled meetings
of the Association.
(g) to maintain a central office in Nairobi.
THE AFFILIATIONS: Not being affiliated to any other body,
religious or otherwise, anywhere outside of Kenya, the
Association accepts, and governs its activities by, the
Scriptures of the Christian faith and of the non-denomin
ational Churches of Crhist. As such it is totally non-
political, with only the furtherance of the Christian Gospel
in mind.
The foregoing has related to the Association with which we will
be affiliated in Kenya. The following relates more particularly
to our work in Kara Pokot. (See also "Answers to Questions We
Have Been Asked About the Field").
Our goals in Kara Pokot are threefold:
I. Acceptance by the people (trust)
A. Willingness to talk and listen
B.- Acceptance into their homes
C. Allowing their children to attend mission schools
D. Tolerance of missionaries at "war party" gatherings.
E. Acceptance by local tribal authorities
F. Being asked to return to the field
II. Establishment of Churches
A. Increasing attendance in church services and evangelistic
gatherings.
B. Increasing number of congregations and invitations to
begin new congregations.
III. Discipling and training of local church leaders.
Basically, our goal in Kara Pokot is the establishment of the
indigenous church where each congregation supports itself, provides
its own leaders, and begins to establish and disciple new con
gregations.
The timetable which has been set for the establishment of
an indigenous church is ten years. This ten year period began
in 1976. Prior to that time there was no mission work being
carried on in the area of Kara Pokot where we will be located and
where Hamiltons have been working for the past three years.
ANSWERS TO QUESTIONNAIRE Page 3
At the present time there are two church groups meeting in the
area and 20 people have expressed a desire to be baptized and
are currently undergoing a study with an African pastor on the
meaning of Christian baptism. Missionologists and missionaries
experiences in areas like Kara Pokot tell us that this is ex
ceptional progress for such a short period of time.
4. Do you (or your organization) periodically evaluate these
goals?
This question is a little difficult to answer, having not
yet been on the field. However, I know that the Hamiltons set
and review goals every six months (these are minor goals which
relate to their major goals). We also intend to evaluate our
goals every six months and the results will be sent to our Board
and considered at each semi-annual board meeting.
Effectiveness is evaluated in two ways. First of all, we
compare our mission methodology with that of successful missions
working'in other areas similar to Kara Pokot in culture, tribal
beliefs, degree of past Christian exposure, etc. Secondly,
we evaluate by resultsare we accomplishing what we set out to
accomplish?
59 State briefly your tasks and responsibilities with regard to
the goals referred to in questions three and four.
Our primary tasks will be under the heading of what is known
as "pioneering the work." Having not yet been to the field,
it is a little difficult to envision exactly what we will be
doing, but here is what we plan: Repairing boreholes (wells
and pumps), Bible teaching, medical assistance, leadership
training. Relating these to our goals on Page 2repairing
boreholes and medical assistance fit under goal number one,
Bible teaching under goals number two and three, and leadership
training under goal number three.
6. What training and/or experience did you possess prior to
entering this ministry? Was it adequate?
Please see "Answers to Questions We Have Been Asked About
the Field," questions #4, and letter of recommendation from
Herb Works.
7. While on the field, are there opportunities to participate
in any inservice training or conferences? Do you participate?
Shortly after our arrival in Kenya, Linda will be required
to participate in an inservice program in an African hospital
of several weeks duration to acquiant her with tropical medicine
and medical services available in Kenya. In addition, we will
take part in a language school. Besides these "required"
programs, we are also free to participate in various programs
offered by DayStar Communications and other agencies in Kenya
ANSWERS TO QUESTIONNAIRE Page 4
which are designed to help the missionary be more effective.
Puller School of World Mission (which we will be attending
in August of this year for a language seminar) in Pasadena,
California offers extension courses for missionaries on the
field. We also subscribe to many missions periodicals which
provide current information on mission practices.
8. Do you (or your organization) periodically evaluate your
personal effectiveness in carrying out your tasks and
responsibilities?
Yes, every six months.
9. How is your personal effectiveness evaluated and what are
the criteria used?
a. Colleagues
b. ^Evaluation by nationals
c. Evaluation by home executive board
d. Current criteria in missions periodicals
We have discussed this question of personal evaluation at
some length with Hamiltons, however we have not yet drawn up an
evaluation form. We plan to have psychological evaluations
done by a Christian psychologist prior to our leaving for the
field.
10. Are you satisfied with the evaluation process? Comment
briefly.
Good questionwe'll let you know in a year or sol
11. Based upon the periodic evaluation and your personal eval
uation, answer briefly the following:
a. What are your gifts and strenghts?
b. l>^at are your weaknesses?
c. What are you doing about your areas of weakness?
d. Are you concentrating your efforts in the areas of
your gifts and strengths?
I assume that this question relates to the missionary's
performance on the field rather than to his personal strengths
and weaknesses (such as leaving the cap off a tube of toothpaste).
If you would like a list of my personal strengths and weaknesses,
just let me know, I'm sure my wife would be happy to supply you
with such a list!
12. What is the philosophy and performance of your mission in
national church relationships?
a. We don't want to impose Western culture and thinking
on them.
b. Our intention is to plant a national (African) church,
not an American church.
By the way, the constitution of the ACCK states that the
Board must be composed of at least 50% African Christians.
ANSWERS TO QUESTIONNAIRE Page 5
13# What is the stage of development of the national church
in your area of ministry? How many years ago was the
church planted?
See Question #3.
14. If the national church had the opportunity, would they
invite you back to work with them? Why?
We have been invited by the national church to work with
them, and Hamiltons have been invited back for a second term.
15. Explain your (or your organization's) philosophy of fund
raising. Do you allow for emergencies or rely on special
fund raising drives?
We will do all of our own fund raising (see the enclosed
budget). We intend to budget for emergencies (a savings acct.).
We will-also carry full insurance (medical, vehicle, life, etc).
We will have a special savings account for a furlough fund so
that it won't be necessary to raise special funds each time it
is necessary for us to come home on furlough. V/e believe that
God will provide in times of need, however we also believe that
God expects us to use good judgement in financial planning.
16. Do you (or your organization) use budgets in developing
your program and controlling your expenditures? If so,
please attach your latest budget.
Yes, see enclosed budget. This budget was developed from
recent budgets of other missionaries in Kenya. Our accounting
system is being set up by a student in the Graduate School of
Administration at Willamette University who is currently working
on his Master's degree in Accounting.
17. Has the level of financial support received during the
last two years been equal to or greater than your budgeted
needs? Please comment briefly.
Another good questionask me again in two and a half years i
18. If not, how much support have you needed to meet your
budget? vVhat are you doing to correct this problem?
See answer to question #17.
19. If you were a member of Shelton Christian Church, would
you want to support yourself as a missionary? Why?
Yes! 1. Because the need in Kara Pokot is so great.
2. Because we believe that God has gifted us with
many of the talents necessary for mission work
in a primitive area (teaching, medical work,
mechanical ability, etc.).
ANSWERS TO QUESTIONNAIRE Page 6
3 Because we have past experience and have "survived"
in this type of environment before.
4. Because we are already beginning to learn the
language.
5# Because we are highly recommended by missions
professors at both Puget Sound College of the
Bible (Dan Burris) and Northwest Christian College
(Herb Works), and other church leaders.
6. Because we have the desire to serve God in this
way.
7. Because we love the Hamiltons and have worked
with them before and know that vie are compatible.
(Most missionaries quit after their first term
of service because of personal conflicts).
8. Because we have a good knowledge of the area
and the people.
9. Because it has been proven over and over again
that a church that is actively involved in mis
sions is a growing church.
10. Because our Executive and Advisory Boards are
composed of dedicated Christian men who are
bringing the work of Kara Pokot before the Lord
daily in prayer.
11. Because our family is psychologically and physically
healthy, an important requirement for any missionary
family.
12. Because of Matt. 25:34-46; Matt. 28:18-20; Eph.
4:11; Romans 10:13-15; Acts 20:35; Luke 10:34;
I John 3:17; and I John 4:20
13. Because becoming financially involved in a mission
work can change a person's life (his priorities,
his commitment to Christ, his awareness of the
needs of others, etc.).
Mike Courtney
r + - ^S'sr
Vi,.0 I
ANSWERS TO-.QUESTIONS WE HAVE BEEN ASKED ABOUT THE FIELD . . .
#1 Could you give us some information about the opportunity for missions
in Kenya and the Kara Pokot area specifically?
Statistics:
Kenya has a total population of 12 million people with an annual
growth rate of 3.3%. 48% of the people are under the age of 15 years.
The country is 90% rural and 10% urban settled. The capital and largest
city, Nairobi, has a population of over 600,000. 97% of Kenyans are
African (40 different tribes) while the remaining 3% are European and
Asian decendants.
Government:
The government of Kenya is one of the most stable in Africa. They
received their independence from Britain 13 years ago after the Mau Mau
uprisings of the early 50*s. Since that time there has been peace and a
strong bond of friendship with the U.S. and other V/estern countries.
The Kenya government cooperates with missionaries and encourages
mission schools, medical work, etc., especially in the outlying areas
which are still tribal.. There is a great respect for Christianity and
Christian work. The Bible is taught as a regular classroom subject in
Kenya's school system. This encouragment"by the governemnt is a wide
open door especially in light of the many closing doors in Africa where
the gospel can no longer be preached. Kenya is surrounded by countries ..
where Christianity is not encouraged and in fact where Christians are
being openly persecuted. Ethiopia to the north where communism has become
the state religion and the door is closed to missionaries, Uganda to
the west where the government is Muslim, Tanzania to the south with
socialistic ties with communist countries. We feel a great sense of
urgency to preach the Gospel in Kenya while there is yet tim.e and the
door remains open.
Opportunity:
There are many places in Kenya where the old tribal ways are being
challehged by modern society. Our mission training has taught us that
when societies are undergoing change, that is a time of responsiveness
among the people. These areas are badly in need of schools and medical
help and they are ripe for the gospel to be preached. They are on the
threshold of a new way of life, a time of leaving behind the old super
stitions. It is a good time to present the message of Jesus Christ to
interact in their society and their lives.
About Kara Pokot:
Kara Pokot is an afea of approximately 80 x 35 miles located in
western Kenya, fairly close to the Ugandan border. It is in the Rift
Valley. There are about 20,000 Pokot people, living in an almost stone
age setting. There has been no mission activity in this area until the
Hamiltons surveyed and began their work there. The lack of any mission
work in the past has been due to the remoteness of the area and the fact
that until fairly recently Kara Pokot was under.the jurisdiction of the
Ugandan government.
Page 2
The Hamiltons have spent their last term surveying Western Kenya for
a field in which to work, and after deciding on the Kara Pokot area in
December of 1976, have since spent their time gaining the trust and
confidence of the people. This has been done primarily by showing the
people that they care for them by helping with their physical needs as
outlined by Christ in Matthew 25:34-45. THIS IS NOT THE PRIMARY REASON
FOR GOING TO THE MISSION FIELD. It is only a tool. The primary purpose
of our mission work in Kenya is evangelism. Helping the sick and re
pairing bore holes always drav/ large crowds of people, and these excel
lent opportunities for evangelism are not passed by.
There are two African preachers living in the Kara Pokot area. These
men work very closely with the Hamiltons. Two churches with an average
attendance of 75 in one and 50 in the other have been established in the
time'the Hamiltons have been working in Kara Pokot.
#2 Have you considered attending a language institute in the United States
that would help mission field recruits become better prepared to work
with whatever language has to be learned? Such as the Wycliffe
Institute of Linguistics.
The Wycliffe Institute of Linguistics is designed primarily for those
who will be translating, and not for speaking. We know several people who
have taken this course, including the Hamiltons. V/e have discussed this
matter with Ray Giles of Christian Missionary Fellowship, and he feels that
our time can be better spent in a different type of program, such as' the
LAMP course held at the Fuller School of World Missions in Pasadena, which
concentrates on speaking a language. We are planning to attend this pro
gram in August of this year.
We are currently being taught the Swahili language by a graduate
student at Willamette University here in Salem. Our teacher is a Kenyan
man who is working on his Masters degree in Business Administration.
His homeland is only about 60 miles south of where we will be living
in Kenya. We feel very fortunate in meeting this man. He is a Christian
and is very excited about our plans to work with his people in Kenya.
His fiance will be coming to the States in May and will live in our home.
We praise God for leading us to this Christian man who not only is teaching
us the Swahili language, but is also giving us a unique opportunity to
learn many things about African culture and customsan opportunity seldom
granted missionary recruits.
#3 What specific factors determine success in this field?
Anything having to do with the furtherance and growth of Christianity
can be viewed as success in this type of mission enterprise.
Since these people have never been approached with the Gospel (before
Hamilton's work began) and there has been no mission work in this area,
we feel that the first step to success is acceptance by the people. The
Pokot people often have cattle raids between themselves and the neigh
boring Turkana tribe. Because of this, outsiders are often suspected of
interfering with their "war parties."
Our goals in Kara Pokot are threefold:
I. Acceptance by the people (trust)
A. Willingness to talk and Listen
Page 3
B. Acceptance into their homes.
C. Allowing their children to attend schools.
D. Tolerance of missionaries at "war party" gatherings.
E. Acceptance by local tribal authorities.
(i.e. offer of land for mission building site)
P. Being asked to return to the field.
In the short time that the Hamiltons have been in Kara Pokot
they have had positive responses in each of the above areas.^ As new
people in the areaj we will also need to establish rapport with the
people.
II. Establishment of churches.
A. increasing attendance in church services and evangelistic
gatherings.
B.. Increasing number of congregations and invitations to begin
new congregations.
III. Discipling and training of local church leaders.
Basically, our goal is the establishment of the indigenous church
where each congregation supports itself, provides its own leaders, and
begins to establish and disciple new congregations.
#4 How well prepared do you feel?
For ten years now we have been praying that if it is His will for
our lives that God would lead us to the mission field. We have considered
several fields, not all of them in Africa. Of the four countries that we
have seriously considered in Africa in the past ten years, three are now
either Marxist or torn by internal strife, making mission work impossible.
In this tenyear period we have completed courses in higher education
aimed specifically toward mission work. We have completed a missionary
internship in an area very similar to Kara Pokot (the Maranda Tribal
Trust Reserve in Rhodesia). Linda has completed training as a registered
nurse and is certified by the International Childbirth Cjducation Assoc
iation to teach prenatal classes. We have made an effort to maintain
contact with missionaries experienced in working with African tribal
people. We have read books on missions, attended mission seminars and
camps, and are on the mailing lists of many African missionaries. We
also receive reports and information regularly from the Association of
Church Missions Committees, MARC (Missions Advanced Research and Com
munication Center), and the Lausanne Committee for World Evangelization.
Although we have made an effort to be welleducated in missions,
we dont feel that we should do our mission strategy and planning alone.
Por this reason, we have set up an Advisory Board to make recommendations
to our Board of Directors and to us. One member of our Advisory Board is
Herb Works, professor of missions at Northwest Christian College. In a
recent letter to us Herb said, "I am most enthusiastic about your plans to
work with Dick and Jane Hamilton. I have great respect for them and every
thing I hear indicates a very solid and sound approach. It must be ex
citing for you to begin to plan in a specific way for the future God has
for you in the field there."
The most important thing we can do in preparing for the mission field
and preparing a mission strategy for Kara Pokot is to be as certain as
Page 4
possible that we are within the will of God. The second most important
thing we must do is to arm ourselves with all the knowledge we can obtain
concerning our field, current mission practices, and church growth prin
ciples.
I neglected to mention earlier that in my serior year of Bible
College I prepared an 80-page thesis on the culture and evangelization
of an animistic tribal group similar to the people of Kra Pokot. This
report is on file in the Library of Puget Sound College of the Bible
(at least it was in 1974).
Mike Courtney
Courtney
Christian
Mission
P.O. Box 2053
Salem, OR
97308
May 18, 1979
FROM MIKE. . .
As you read this, I will be in Africa. Due to the
infancy of the mission work in Kenya, Dick Hamilton has
found it necessary to return to Kenya for a short time
to take care of some problems which have arisen there. He
and his Board asked me to go with him if at all possible.
I brought this request before my board and with a great deal
of prayer and consideration it was decided that I should go.
There are three reasons for going. The first is to
aid Dick in any way possible with decisions which need to
be made. These decisions will affect the mission work Linda
and I will be doing and Dick feels that my input will be
valuable.
The second reason is for the purpose of surveying the
area in which we will be working and living. I will have
the valuable opportunity of gaining first-hand information,
of meeting local church leaders and local government leaders,
and of seeing what I will actually need in the way of sup
port and supplies for returning to Kenya with my family.
The third reason is personal. My mother recently
suffered a heart attack and is recovering in South Africa
(about 1800 miles from Kenya). I will be able to spend
about a week with my parents, whom I have not seen in over
three years.
Only the great power of God has made this trip possible.
In just four short weeks from the time the request was made
for me to go, all the necessary preparations were made.
Iss-
This trip will cost $1500, over and above the mission
budget. We are trusting God that these expenses
will be met. We feel that the first-hand information
and benefits derived from this trip will far outweigh
the expenditure. My personal prayer was that if
God wanted me to go, that everything and everyone
connected with the trip would be positive about my
going. I did not receive a single negative re
sponse.
X earnestly desire your prayers not only for
me while I am away, but also for my family while
they are alone for six weeks.
FRAN COURTNEY ATTACKED BY TERRORISTS
In early April we received word that Fran Courtney,
Mike's mother, was attacked by terrorists at their
home in the African country of Botswana near the
South African border. As a result, she suffered
a heart attack which resulted in irreversible
cardiac damage. She was hospitalized in Pietersburg,
South Africa. She has had a fair recovery, and
they are now living temporarily in South Africa,
GOD ANSWERS AN $8000 PRAYER!!
On December 11 of this past year it was brought to
our attention that it would be necessary for us to
purchase a four-wheel drive vehicle here in the
States to have shipped to Kenya. We felt that a
Toyota Land Cruiser would be the best choice, but
they cost over $15,000 in Kenya, and there is a
long waiting list. We found that we could pur
chase the vehicle here in the States for about
$8000 and have it shipped to Kenya. There was a
hitchwe had to have the vehicle in our names
for at least one year prior to date of shipment.
That meant that we must purchase the Toyota by
December 31, 1978just 20 days away! The problem
was, we didn't even have the money to make a down-
payment. So, we started to pray, and so did the
people at the West Salem Christian Church. On
Thursday evening, December 21, we received a call
from Charles and Colleen Morley of Salem telling
us that they would like to purchase the Land
Cruiser for us! God does answer prayer in mighty
ways today! We especially thank God for a Chris
tian couple such as the Morleys who are willing
to give sacrificially to see that His word is
spread to the "hidden people" of Kara Pokot in
Kenya.
FROM LINDA...
In December, many of you received a prayer
letter from us, and I would like to bring you up
to date as to how your prayers have been answered.
First of all, we asked that you pray for us
and for the Hamiltons as we make plans to work to
gether in Kenya. We have had some excellent plan
ning sessions with Dick and Jane concerning the
work which we will be carrying on with them in
Kenya. I am especially excited about the oppor
tunity Mike has been given to visit the area in
which we will be working. He plans to return the
end of June.
Secondly, we asked that you pray that God
would grant us wisdom as we discuss plans and
make decisions. We also asked that you would
pray that God would lead us to the right people
who could counsel us in making decisons regarding
mission strategy, leadership training, medical
assistance, etc. We are very excited about the
way in which God has led in these matters. We
have set up our Mission Board, consisting of five
very dedicated Christian men. On our Advisory
Board we have Mr. Stan Henderer, who has long
been a supporter of missions in Kenya; and Dr.
Herb Works, professor of missions at Northwest
Christian College. We have also received much
help in the way of printed material from the
Missions Advanced Research Committee in Monrovia,
California; and the Association of Church Missions
Committees.
We appreciate your prayers on our behalf more than
I can tell you. It is very exciting for us to see the
ways in which God is answering your prayers for us day
by day.
PLEASE CONTINUE TO PRAY ...
for Mike's safety during his time in Africa and
his trip home,
for Linda and the children as Mike is away.
for Linda as she speaks in Christian Camps and
Vacation Bible Schools during Mike's absence.
that God would see that the Courtney's financial
needs are met during this time of transition
to full time mission work,
COMING ATTRACTIONS ...
A report from Mike on his trip to Kenyawith
pictures.
A report on our financial status.
An update on the Swahili language lessons we
began in January.
COURTNEY CHRISTIAN MISSION
P. 0. Box 2053
Salem, OR 97308
/5*3-
To Reach a Hidden People"
Courtney
Christian
Mission
KENYA Trip Report July 1979 Vol. 1, No. 2
I thank the Lord for the opportunity I had to make my
recent trip to Kenya. I spent the first few days of my
trip visiting my parents in South Africa. My mother
recently had a heart attack which was brought on by a
terrorist attack. She is doing as well as can be ex
pected at this time. After a good reunion with the
folks, I traveled the 2000 miles on up to Kenya to sur
vey the work and the area where we will be working. I
was able to meet some of the local government officials
while accompanying Dick Hamilton and was very impressed
by their willingness to cooperate with us in the work
that we want to carry on in Kara Pokot. My trip to
Kara Pokot only strengthened my desire to work with the
Pokot people. There is so much need in this area, both
physical and spiritual, and I am looking forward to co-
laboring with the Hamiltons there, I was pleased by
the work that they have started, but there are still so
many, many people who have not yet been touched by the
Gospel,
My brief time in southern Africa gave me an insight to
world affairs that I have never really appreciatedthe
personal feelings of people involved in a war that is
encouraged by outside forces. It also gave me some
thing with which to compare the political situation of
Kenya. Kenya is stable and open and has a Christian
president. The time is right, and I feel a sense of
urgency to spread the Word in this country.
FINANCIAL REPORT
Total contributions for six month period ended June 30,
1979' $3279.08 (includes several large one-time con
tributions) .
Total cash disbursed: $3536.23
Our budget calls for $2150 per month. This includes
all field and home mission e3q)enses and salary. We
currently have commitments for approximately one-third
of this amount.
Our budgeted outgoing expenses are $19,700. This is a
one-time expense which includes vehicle, shipping,
travel, etCo About one half of this total has been
committed so far,, We still need commitments for ship
ping, air travel, and some equipment.
If you wish to be a part of the Lord's work in Kenya
through your prayer and/or financial support, please
fill out and return the enclosed card so that we may
have a more accurate picture of our financial standing.
LANGUAGE STUDY
Swahili is the national language of Kenya. In January
we began taking Swahili lessons from a Kenyan student
who was attending the Graduate School of Business Ad
ministration at Willamette University. George Ogum is
a Christian man who's home is near the area where we
will be living in Kenya. In May George's fiance,
Carol, arrived from Kenya and Mike married them the
same day he left for his sur-vey trip to Kenya, They
lived with us until June when George transferred to
the University of Arizona to continue work on his Mas
ters Degree in Accounting. George has given us a good
grounding in the Swahili language, and we are now
studying on our own,
The Pokot people with whom we will be working speak
the Pokot language, so when we arrive in Kenya we will
also study Pokot, However, many of the Pokot people
also speak Swahili, so we feel fortunate that God pro
vided us with the opportunity to begin learning this
language before leaving the States.
Mike lived for several years in Rhodesia when his par
ents were missionaries there. During his trip to Kenya
he was able to go down to South Africa where his par
ents now live. The following is his reaction to the
situation in southern Africa today,
"THE FRIGHTENED EYES OF SOUTHERN AFRICA"^
Everywhere I went, it was there. Sometimes I could al
most forget it, but then I would turn a cornerand it
would be there again. Sometimes I felt free and almost
at home and then I would meet someoneand there it
would be again. People would talk about it, laugh
about it, make fun of itbut it was there, I could
see it in their eyes. I could feel it in the air. It
made me nervous and upset. It was something I wanted
to get away from. It was a sense of feara feeling of
being lost with no place to go.
It was war. You knew who the enemy wasand then again
you didn't. He a)uld be standing right next to you. He
could be an old friend.
People talked about the "terrs," of AK-^7's, Uzi's, and
Sana 77's, of friends who were no more. A strange
place to live, but no where else to go. Born and rais
ed in this country for generations, for these people it
was home.
I talked to a girl I knew as a youngster. Her husband
of two months had been shot in the back. She talked
casually of others who had suffered heart attacks or
gone crazy because of being attacked, of old friends
of mine who had died because' of the war. Yet in her
eyes I could see itthe fear, the agony, the fright
ened look of not knowing who would be next,
A part of the world I used to call "home," A country
I grew up in. I pray that it will once again be the
peaceful place I knew. But I am afraid it will be a
long, long time.
SUMMER SCHEDULE |
We are currently involved in camps and Vacation Bible |
Schools. So far we have participated in two. Vacation
Bible Schools and four camps. We still have two Vac-
ation Bible Schools and two camps to go* i
PRAISE GOD ...
for Mrs, D, C, Pittman of Woodland, Washin^on who do
nated her treadle sewing machine for Linda to take
to Kenyal
for supplying our physical needs,
for His constant presence and guidance in our lives.
PLEASE CONTINUE TO PRAY ...
as we speak in camps and Vacation Bible Schools,
as we continue our Swahili language studies.
that we may receive the necessary financial commitments
so that our January departure date is not delayed.
COURTNEY CHRISTIAN MISSION NON PROFIT ORG.
P, 0, Box 2053 U.S. POSTAGE PAID
Salem, OR 97308 Permit ^5cS
pho 585-1^3 Salem, Oregon
m
b'l/ll
'To Reach a Hidden People"
Courtney
Christian
Mission
October 1979 Vol. 1, No. 3
SUMMER REPORT " - "
Our suimner months were so full and exciting that it is hard to describe them in just a few
words. With six camps, three Vacation Bible Schools, and other speaking engagements, we
spent very little time at home. While Linda and I are glad to spend some time at home,
Trevor and Laura are always anxious to be on the road.. They seem to thrive on traveling
and staying in different places. I think they will adapt well to bush living.
We were the missionary speakers for two camps at Wineraa. It was thrilling to see junior
high and ninth graders take an interest in mission work and give outstanding offerings.
The junior high camp set their goal to purchase a winch for the Land Cruiser, Not only
did they meet that goal, but they went far above it. We also shared with Liberty Chris
tian Church and Willamina Christian Church during their VBS programs. Liberty set as their
goal to provide one-half of our budgeted medical supplies for one year. They doubled their
goal. We spent an inspiring week at Winema Week of Missions, It was great to get together
with other missionaries and leam how the Lord is working in other parts of the world.
GOD PROVIDES
We are looking forward to
using the Land Cruiser in
Kenya,, It will be an ex
cellent vehicle for the
type of work we will be
doing. Note the electric
winch mounted on the front.
After the junior high camp,
I received a call from a
Christian man at Warn Indu
stries, He told me who to
write to and as a result
we were able to purchase
the winch at wholesale, PTL
I was as excited as a kid
with a new toy when I went
to pick it upl
"Hey, DadI
Africa,"
Let's just hop in these drums and go to
Try packing everything you think you will need for
three years in just a few drums. First, read Luke
10 where Christ told the seventy to not carry extra
and needless supplies. Then walk out to where you
are packing your drums and throw out the needless
luxuries.
We are planning to send about^ three drums now in
order to have some living utensils-' when we arrive.
The rest of our supplies will be shipped after Dec-
ember'with the Land Cruiser,
Our thanks to the people of the Shelton First
Christian Church who provided us with an enor
mous supply of Tupperware -co use in Kenya.
This is a gift that will he greatly used and
appreciated over the yearsi Pictured are Lloyd
Sorter, minister; Dorothy Baker, secretary;
Linda, and Laura,
+++++++-H-+++++++++++++++
NEWS FROM KENYA
We have recently received some newspaper clippings from Kenya. President Daniel Moi
has made a trip to the Rift Valley to visit the "rural people." He is anxious for
more doctors and nurses to work in the area. He is also planning to make school at
tendance compulsory. He wants the Pokot (the people with whom we will he working)
and the neighboring Turkana to stop fighting. He ordered them to turn over all their
home-made guns and the guns that have come across the Uganda border or he would "hit
them hard and faster than lightning." "Immediately he issued the warning, several
Kenya Air Force jet fighters roared overhead performing acrobatic feats in a display
of air power. And the rally was temporarily interrupted as several frightened people
dived for cover,"
We praise the Lord for His timing. The government is taking an interest in the Pokot
people at the same time as we are making application to work among them.
StCLTCW CffilSTIAM CtMICM
TWO POKOT WOMEN
Just two of 20,000 who will never
hear the Gospel of Christ unless
someone crosses into their culture
and tells them the message of sal
vation. ",,,, And how are they to
hear without a preacher? And how
can men preach unless they are
sent? (Romans 10:14-15) We
cannot carry on the work without
your support. You are the most
important link in taking the Gos
pel to the Pokot people.
To all of our regular supporters we want to say, "THANK YOU." Your financial aid and
prayers mean a great deal to us. We .npw. haye^pver^half of our monthly support commit
ted, Continue to pray for us as we s^k__an additional $900 per month for the work
in Kenya, .
Courtney Christian Mission
P.O. Box 2053
Salem, OR 97308
ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED
Editorial Office
P. 0. Box 5077
Kokomo, IN 46901
NGN PROFIT ORG,
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
Permit #505
Salem, Oregon