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Draft:Joe Kayo

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Joe Kayo
Born
Joseph Kayo Nyakango

(1937-05-05)May 5, 1937
Nyamira County, Kenya
DiedNovember 2, 2023(2023-11-02) (aged 86)
Occupation(s)Pentecostal pastor, author
Known forFounder of Deliverance Church in East Africa
SpouseRose Kayo
Children3

Joe Kayo (May 5, 1937 – November 2, 2023) was a Kenyan Pentecostal preacher, author, and founder of the Deliverance Church movement in East and Central Africa. He was a pioneering figure in the rise of indigenous African-led Pentecostal churches.

Early Life and Conversion

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Joe Kayo was born as Joseph Kayo Nyakango in Nyamira County, western Kenya. Orphaned at age 12, he struggled with poverty and substance abuse in his youth. In 1957, while hospitalized in Mombasa, he attended a crusade by American evangelist T.L. Osborn, where he reportedly experienced healing and converted to Christianity.[1]

Ministry

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Kayo began his ministry in Mombasa and Kilifi in the early 1960s. He later moved to Kisumu and Kampala, Uganda, where he was instrumental in establishing several Pentecostal congregations. In 1970, he co-founded Deliverance Church in Nairobi, which would become one of the most influential Pentecostal movements in the region.[2]

Beyond Kenya, he helped establish Deliverance Church Uganda, Juba Pentecostal Church in South Sudan, and Family of God Churches in Zimbabwe. His ministry extended to countries including Canada, South Africa, England, Japan, and Hong Kong.

Teachings and Influence

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Kayo emphasized the work of the Holy Spirit, deliverance, and practical Christian living. He introduced the use of guitars and other modern instruments into worship, helping popularize contemporary praise and worship music in East African churches.

Education

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Though largely self-taught, Kayo pursued theological studies through the University of Biblical Studies in Oklahoma. He earned a TH.D and Ph.D. from Faith Bible College in Lagos and was awarded a D.Litt from the European Bible Seminary in Ireland. He also received an honorary D.D. from Esther Mallet International Christian University of California.[3]

Writings

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Kayo authored numerous books and tracts, including:

  • The Marvel of God’s Grace
  • The Power of the Blood of Christ
  • The Lion Has Prevailed
  • Knowing the Name of the Lord
  • God’s Pattern for Daily Living
  • The Eagle Saint

He also published a periodical titled Revival Digest.

Later Years and Legacy

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Kayo stepped down from leadership of Deliverance Church in 1977 but later reconciled with its leadership in 2004. He continued to lead Christian Family Church in Nairobi until his death on November 2, 2023, at the age of 86.

Kayo is remembered as a trailblazer of Pentecostalism in Africa, having mentored many leaders and founded numerous churches across the continent.

Personal Life

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Joe Kayo was married to Rose Kayo, and together they had three sons. His family continues to be involved in ministry.

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References

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  1. ^ "Apostle Joe Kayo, Deliverance Churches Founder, Dies at 86". Christianity Today. 5 April 2024. Retrieved 2025-05-05.
  2. ^ "What You Didn't Know About Apostle Joe Kayo". Retrieved 2025-05-05.
  3. ^ "Obituary: Deliverance Churches Founder Apostle Joe Kayo". 3 November 2023. Retrieved 2025-05-05.

References

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  • "Kayo, Joseph". Dictionary of African Christian Biography. Retrieved May 5, 2025.