Kanita Rutley: A Visionary Missiologist on a Mission
One of the many names that shine brightly in the ever-evolving landscape of global missions is Kanita Rutley. With her infectious passion and unwavering commitment to eradicating Bible poverty, Rutley has become a force to be reckoned with in the mission world. As the Senior Global Manager of Prayer Mobilization at The Seed Company, she diligently serves toward the audacious task of ensuring that every person has access to God’s Word in their heart language.
Rutley’s journey began in 2013 when she responded wholeheartedly to God’s call. Ten years before that, in 2003, she shared that she heard God speak to her clearly while studying abroad in Ecuador, South America. “While alone in a hostel, I experienced an encounter with God that produced a weight of glory, burdening my heart for the nations of the world. What I witnessed in South America was spiritual bankruptcy, abject poverty, underdeveloped infrastructure, and profound socioeconomic disparities. My eyes were opened to the global need. I was never the same,” she says.
Since then, Rutley has dedicated her life to serving God’s global mission, and her impact has been nothing short of extraordinary. With her deep conviction and profound understanding of the transformative power of God’s Word, Rutley firmly believes that the Church plays a crucial role in spreading the Gospel message to all nations. “The Church is not just a building; it’s a movement,” Rutley passionately declares. “We are called to actively engage in fulfilling the Great Commission and bringing hope to every corner of the world.”
As the Senior Global Manager of Prayer Mobilization, Rutley recognizes the significance of prayer in advancing God’s Word. Leading the Pray for Zero Africa movement, she along with the Pray for Zero global alliance, aims to mobilize a staggering 1 million fervent prayer warriors to intercede for Bible translation and the expansion of God’s kingdom. Her vision is clear: prayer and mission must go hand in hand for God’s mission to be fulfilled in our generation. Rutley firmly believes that prayer is not merely an accessory to our mission efforts but rather the heartbeat that sustains and empowers our work.
But Rutley’s impact doesn’t stop there. She is also the founder of the nonprofit organization She Saves a Nation, which focuses on empowering displaced girls in Africa to become leaders and agents of change. Through mentorship, leadership development, and education programs, SSAN equips these girls with the necessary tools for a brighter future. Her ultimate vision is to see these girls rise as courageous leaders who will shape the course of history. “A girl empowered is a nation transformed,” Rutley asserts confidently. “Investing in the education and empowerment of girls is investing in the transformation of entire communities and nations.”
As a global missions mobilizer, Rutley engages Christians worldwide by creating awareness, facilitating training, and offering valuable resources. Her captivating speeches emphasize the importance of understanding God’s mission and the Great Commission. Rutley encourages the Church to embrace its identity and purpose, incorporating cross-cultural intelligence and sensitivity to grow the global body of Christ. She firmly believes that God’s mission includes all of us, transcending cultural boundaries, and emphasizes the significance of diverse representation within the Church to reach and impact the nations effectively.
In her pursuit of excellence, Rutley is currently pursuing a Doctor of Missiology/Global Leadership degree at Fuller Theological Seminary. Through her studies, she deepens her knowledge and impact in the field of missiology. Her dissertation focuses on developing women and girls in rural Kenya as leaders, envisioning a sustainable, kingdom-centered future. Rutley’s desire is to pour her energy into her relationship with God and her family, establishing a strong foundation for ministry that will have a lasting impact on the lives of those she serves.
When asked for advice for those seeking to understand God’s Word and His mission, Rutley’s response resonates with wisdom and authenticity. “Relentlessly pursue God’s heart,” she advises. “Seek genuine intimacy with Him through prayer, fasting, studying His Word, and serving the local and global Church. As we draw closer to God, we gain the confidence and boldness to make Him known and share His love in our spheres of influence. Our mission begins with knowing God deeply and intimately; as we abide in Him, He will guide and empower us to fulfill His purposes in the world.” Kanita Rutley embodies a life dedicated to serving God’s mission and making a profound impact on the lives of others. With her visionary mindset and unwavering faith, she continues to inspire and challenge believers worldwide. In a world hungry for hope, Rutley shines as a beacon of light, reminding us of the transformative power of God’s Word and the call to participate in His global mission actively.
