Eldama Ravine Pastor Opens Garage Church to Welcome Addicts and Outcasts

A pastor in Poror village, Eldama Ravine, has converted his garage into a place of worship for individuals often excluded from mainstream churches, including those struggling with addiction, poverty, and social stigma.

Upendo Fellowship Church was founded in June by Reverend Lawrence Bomet with the aim of offering an inclusive space for those facing hardship and rejection. Each Sunday, more than 50 people gather in the repurposed garage, where services feature gospel music, open testimonies, and shared meals. The atmosphere is informal but sincere, centred on acceptance rather than judgement.

The congregation includes recovering alcoholics, active drug users, and children attending parallel Sunday school sessions. Attendees are welcomed without condition. Participation in prayers, singing, and offerings is encouraged regardless of a person’s state of sobriety. 

“The church is not a courtroom but a hospital for the sick,” says Rev Bomet, whose ministry is guided by a message of spiritual healing over moral conformity.

The church's beginnings were deeply personal. Disturbed by rising substance abuse in his community and motivated by his brother’s struggles, Rev Bomet launched the fellowship on 8 June in his own garage. Without requesting financial support, he later set aside a portion of his land to build a permanent church structure, which is now nearing completion. 

“My members can’t afford to contribute,” he says. “I’ve built houses before without asking for help, so why not a church?”

In addition to spiritual support, the church provides practical assistance. Adults are offered casual employment on Rev Bomet’s farm, earning Sh300 per day, an effort to provide income and reduce time spent in local drinking spots. Children take part in a Saturday programme known as the “Sato Club,” which offers lessons on the risks of alcohol and drug use.

The church’s motto, “Come as you are,” underpins all its activities. This inclusive philosophy has drawn criticism from some mainstream religious leaders, but Rev Bomet remains undeterred. “Even Jesus faced opposition. I’ll keep going,” he says. Locals now refer to him as Damu ya Yesu, Swahili for “Blood of Jesus”, a nickname that reflects the trust he has earned among the community. For many congregants, the church offers not only spiritual support but also dignity. 

“No one criticises you for drinking. Despite our shortcomings, we praise God,” says Martha Chebon, a regular attendee. Another congregant, George Bunei, adds, “Everyone is welcome. Drinkers, smokers, drug users. No one judges your past.”