Experiencing Great Loss—Patience’s Story of Strength

In the midst of the global pandemic, we share with you a story of strength and survival from Kenya.

Patience Mbeyu Nguta-Kathengi, United Methodist pastor and mother of three, was already suffering loss when the COVID-19 pandemic swept across the globe. In 2012 she lost her eyesight while pregnant with her third child, and her world changed forever.

Although blindness left Patience unable to provide for her family in the same way, pension benefits from her years of service at the United Methodist Church—Tazama Christ, through the East Africa pension plan funded by CCP, allowed her some continued support.

Then in April, tragedy struck again when Patience’s husband passed away from COVID-19. Prior to his passing, he had worked as a night guard, helping to support the family. His death is yet another reminder that the impacts of COVID-19 are especially devastating for many already-disadvantaged populations across the globe.

While Patience is incredibly grateful for the benefits she continues to receive from the CCP program, her family’s loss is deep. She continues to look for support from her neighbors and others.