Temoi-Rapando, Carolyne Chematui

Carolyne Chematui Temoi-Rapando is a Global Missionary with the General Board of Global Ministries (GBGM) and a lecturer in social work at Africa University in Mutare, Zimbabwe. In her academic role, she teaches undergraduate and postgraduate students, supervises research, participates in community outreach, and supports international student and staff recruitment.

A Kenyan national, Carolyne brings over 25 years of experience in social work 15 of which are in teaching. She is deeply committed to strengthening the profession, mentoring students, and empowering communities—particularly vulnerable populations—through skill-building and advocacy. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and History from Kenyatta University, a Master’s in Social Work from Dominican University, and is currently completing her doctoral studies at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa.

“From my youth, God has guided me along an unpredictable path,” she shares. “Though many of my goals have shifted or failed, each opened a new window of opportunity in line with God’s direction.”

One such pivotal moment came when Carolyne arrived in Chicago just a week after 9/11 to pursue her master’s degree. Despite financial struggles, she completed her program within the standard two years. “God orchestrated every step,” she recalls. “Members of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Evanston stepped in, covering my tuition and living expenses so I could focus on my studies.” This experience deepened her calling to serve those facing hardship within the United Methodist Church (UMC) and its affiliated communities.

Carolyne attributes her spiritual formation to a lifelong sensitivity to external guidance, shaped through scripture, prayer, and mentorship. “It requires continuous self-examination and spiritual alignment with God,” she says.

As a social worker, Carolyne sees the impact of global shifts on society and calls for the UMC and the larger body of Christ to adopt a comprehensive strategy—one that addresses cross-cutting social issues, promotes socio-economic empowerment, and affirms the role of faith within the broader context of God’s kingdom.

Her passion for mission work was sparked in childhood, when a young missionary couple visited her village on the slopes of Mt. Elgon, near the Kenya-Uganda border. The husband taught in the local school, while the wife trained women and girls in handicrafts. In turn, the village supported the couple’s needs. This experience planted the seed of her missionary calling.

Today, she believes effective mission work demands divine guidance, cultural awareness, language skills, strategic communication, and a deep passion for church planting and gospel outreach. “I aspire to be part of this work,” she says. “Joining GBGM as a missionary is my first step toward serving in God’s vineyard—following in the footsteps of those before me, and equipping others to work with the vulnerable through teaching and mentorship.”