History of Cornerstone Baptist Church, Nairobi
Cornerstone Baptist Church, Nairobi, traces its origins to a Bible study fellowship led by Philip Ipala, a missionary sent by Emmanuel Baptist Church, Nairobi. The vision was clear—to proclaim the gospel and bring doctrinal clarity to the people of Eastlands, Nairobi.
Initially, only a few individuals gathered, including Ephantus Mbugua, John Mwaura and his family, as well as others who later moved on. The group began studying the book of Romans, and by the time discussions reached Romans 8, interest had grown significantly. The demand for structured worship services increased, leading to the formation of a congregation committed to biblical teaching.
A Struggle for Space, A Gift from God
Finding a place to meet proved challenging. Many property owners hesitated to accommodate churches, often associating them with financial exploitation. However, in August 2019, a breakthrough came when a member of Emmanuel Baptist Church offered his land on a 15-year lease, free of charge.
The generosity of this supporter came unexpectedly—while visiting the newborn child of a church leader, he learned about the desire to establish a gospel-centered fellowship in an area dominated by charismatic movements and African Traditional Religions(ATR). His conviction led him to offer his land, enabling the community to establish a permanent gathering space.
With Emmanuel Baptist Church embracing the vision, additional support followed, including weekly tea and snacks for attendees, fostering fellowship and growth.
Growth and Gospel Clarity
As attendance increased, conversations often centered on frustration with doctrinal drift in many local churches. False teachings and a lack of biblical clarity left many seeking sound theology. The fellowship continued reinforcing the importance of gospel-centered teaching, addressing concerns raised by individuals disillusioned with inconsistent and heretical doctrines.
Then came COVID-19, forcing meetings to relocate to the pastor’s residence due to government-imposed lockdowns. Despite the limitations, the commitment to Scripture and discipleship remained strong. As soon as restrictions were lifted, efforts resumed to formally establish a local congregation, independent of the sending church.
After prayerful consideration, the elders and congregation of Emmanuel Baptist Church voted to commission Pastor Philip Ipala to spearhead the new church plant in the Obama area of Nairobi.
Official Launch and God’s Faithfulness
On March 6, 2022, Cornerstone Baptist Church held its first official service, drawing an encouraging turnout from the local community. In the following months, regular baptisms, discipleship programs, and structured worship strengthened the newly formed church.
The journey has been marked by God’s unwavering faithfulness. Although worship initially took place under a tent and a simple iron sheet structure, the congregation continues to pray for a permanent and more suitable place of worship.
Through perseverance and God’s provision, Cornerstone Baptist Church stands as a testimony to His grace and the power of the gospel, continuing to transform lives in the Obama area and beyond.