A youthful Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) pastor from Migori County is blending poetry with purpose in a bold mission to expand church ministry and uplift vulnerable members of his congregation.
Pastor Brian Odongo Maningi of Dago Kouma District under the South West Nyanza field has authored a new book titled Bold Unlikely Odds: A Series of Contemporary Psalms, a poetic compilation inspired by biblical psalms and personal reflections on faith, courage, love, and divine purpose.
The book, set for official launch on April 12 at the church’s proposed site, is more than a literary milestone—it is a fundraising drive aimed at raising Sh1 million.
The funds will go toward purchasing a parcel of land for the construction of a new Sabbath School and church sanctuary, as well as supporting a vulnerable church member to pursue a technical course at a tertiary institution.
“This book is a positive gesture towards evangelism in a poetic manner. It is born out of meditation on Scripture and a deep conviction that God uses art in its diversity to bless the world,” he said.
Poetry with a Mission
Speaking ahead of the launch, Pastor Maningi described the publication as a spiritual and evangelistic tool crafted to communicate the gospel through art.
The publication explores themes of faith amid adversity, confronting fear, embracing courage, and understanding the blessing and responsibility of belonging to both earthly and divine families.
Through poetic expression, the pastor seeks to inspire readers to rediscover their God-given gifts and use them for kingdom service.
According to him, the book will be a game changer in advancing the Adventist mission by reaching audiences who connect deeply with creative and reflective writing.
A Vision Beyond the Pulpit
Pastor Maningi, a theology graduate from Bugema University in Uganda, has served passionately in pastoral ministry within South West Nyanza Field. His commitment now extends beyond preaching to tangible community impact.
The proposed church land will provide a permanent worship space and a structured Sabbath School for children and youth in Kakrao area, strengthening spiritual growth at the grassroots level.
At the same time, part of the proceeds will facilitate a church member’s enrollment into a technical training course—an empowerment initiative aimed at equipping the beneficiary with employable skills for sustainable livelihood.
“This is about holistic ministry,” Pastor Maningi noted. “We preach the gospel, but we must also create opportunities for growth and empowerment within our congregations.”
Community Call to Action
The April 12 launch is expected to draw church members, local leaders, and well-wishers who share in the vision of expanding Adventist outreach in Dagon Kouma District.
By combining poetry, faith, and philanthropy, the young pastor is demonstrating that ministry can transcend traditional boundaries—using literature not only to inspire souls but also to build institutions and transform lives.
If successful, Bold Unlikely Odds will stand as both a literary achievement and a practical testimony of faith in action—proof that even against unlikely odds, vision anchored in purpose can shape lasting change.
About the Author
