Capitol Ministries

39 C apitol Ministries held one of its largest Regional Training Con- ferences in Lusaka, Zambia, on September 9–12, 2025. Steve Flandorp, Director for Africa, together with his predecessor Jon Cassel, Assistant International Director, and Emmanuel Makolo, the Africa Director for Local Government Ministry, devoted much prayer, energy, and effort to recruiting and vetting men called to make disciples among political leaders across Africa. With more than 40 men in attendance—including pastors, evange- lists, and several public servants—the conference focused on equipping leaders for ministry within the halls of government at both local and national levels. Pastor Flandorp shared his vision for Africa, rooted in Proverbs 29:2: When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when a wicked man rules, people groan. Brian Solomon, CapMin's Director of Training, presented dynam- ic and captivating teaching. As one participant said, "e men were drinking om a fire hose!" Brian and the rest of the CapMin team were deeply impressed with the caliber of the men in attendance. Steve dug into sharing on Discipleship and the Essentials of Communication seg- ments of the training. Jon Cassel, who moved to Africa from Pennsylvania many years ago, provided significant support to participants. His love for the continent and strong personal connections with Christian leaders who share a burden for serving public officials helped lay the foundation for Cap- Min's expansion throughout Africa. e training conference le a deep impact on Pastor Tagbino Saa Élie of Guinea: "e love, motivation, and quality of the trainers and their teaching are beyond description. e Bible-based teaching on serving po- litical leaders lied the veil om my eyes and stirred me to take seriously the ministry of making disciples of Jesus Christ in the political arena. It has become a burning fire in my heart." In some African nations, hostility toward Christianity remains strong. Yet, Capitol Ministries is committed to placing men wherev- er God calls—not only in favorable circumstances, but also in difficult and challenging environments. is truth resonated deeply with Justice Marwisa, who reflected: "Ministry to politicians is dangerous, and we must be prepared to suffer— but always with the Gospel in mind." As soon as the conference concluded, the CapMin team traveled to Lilongwe, Malawi, where ministry leader Pastor Andrew Mkwaila had arranged a private meeting with President Lazarus Chakwera. In heartfelt humility, the CapMin men gathered around the presi- dent, interceding for God's wisdom, protection, and favor to rest upon him as he leads the nation of Malawi, a responsibility entrusted to him since 2020. Looking ahead, CapMin encouraged the African team to begin pray- ing for the launch of an African Presidents' Weekly Zoom Bible study. Steve Flandorp welcomed the idea and confirmed that the team is ex- cited to establish the infrastructure needed to make this vision a reality. "Africa is facing a paradox. We have the largest Christian population and are rich in resources, yet our gross domestic product remains poor. I believe that as we raise biblically sound political leaders, this picture is bound to change." STEVE FLANDORP Director, Africa

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