Jonathan & Lilli Leslie

Jonathan and Lilli helped plant Sovereign Grace Church Nairobi, which launched on January 5, 2025. Jonathan serves as one of the pastors alongside Kenyan lead pastor Brian Kiama, and Lilli serves the church as a joyful encourager and caregiver, plays keyboard on the worship team, and is known for her warm and generous hospitality.

A Vision for Gospel-Centered Churches Across Kenya

Together, they share a deep conviction that planting healthy, gospel-centered churches is vital for the spread of the gospel across Kenya. In a nation marked by spiritual hunger and rapid growth—and where the prosperity gospel often distorts the true message of Christ—they long to see churches rooted in Scripture, shaped by grace, and united in mission. Their prayer is for churches that faithfully proclaim Christ crucified, make disciples, raise up leaders, and hold out a sure hope not in wealth or success, but in the saving work of Jesus.

Strengthened by Family, Serving Across Generations

Jonathan and Lilli have four children and one granddaughter, all living in Minneapolis. Their daughter Hannah is married to Henrik Stevens, and they welcomed their first child, Sylvie, in June 2025. Their daughter Tiana disciples university students with Campus Outreach at Bethel University, and Josh and Sophie began studying at the University of Northwestern in St. Paul in the fall of 2023. They are thankful for their family’s encouragement and for God’s work across generations as they serve His church in Kenya.