A week before Christmas an attempted political coup incited tribal violence between the largest tribe, the Dinka, and the Nuer. The Nuer are the second largest tribe, but are much less in number than the Dinka. Earlier this year President Salva Kiir, who is from the Dinka tribe, sacked his Vice President, Dr Riek Machar, who is Nuer. Many of his cabinet members where also fired, after accusations of corruption. The ensuing violence began in Juba, the nation’s capital. Then the rebel troops, loyal to Dr Riek Machar, attacked and took control of Bor, the capital of Jonglei State. They proceeded to attack and take over the capital cities in the two oil rich States, Bentiu of Unity State and Malakal of Upper Nile. Estimates of more than 1000 people have been killed and over 60,000 are displaced. The UN camps are over crowded with insufficient food and supplies to care for civilians seeking refuge. Many displaced families are fleeing into Lakes State, home of Akot Christian Ministries. To this date there has been no violence in Lakes State. ACM is being called on to rescue and assist families fleeing, from neighboring Jonglei State and hiding in the bush. This requires already impoverished families in Akot to take in strangers to house and feed. The leadership of ACM are eager to make these sacrifices.
Having spent 40 of the last 50 years in a civil war, the people of South Sudan are very familiar with the horror that may be coming. But even in the midst of this storm, the church in Akot is standing strong and determined to use these opportunities to minister, and be a witness for Christ. The leaders are encouraging the community to put their faith in God and continue with routine activities. Men’s and Women’s discipleship groups, pastor training, teacher’s training and primary school classes are on schedule.
On the 25th our traditional Christmas outreach was held and was a huge success. The crowd was larger than ever before. It was an all day event that includes messages by several pastors, choirs from various denominations, and lots of prayer. A bull was killed for this auspicious occasion.
Please pray for an angel army to surround the community of Akot and protect them from any harm. Pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ as they minister to their own people. All foreign aid workers and missionaries were evacuated immediately after the violence began, so now all ministry is dependent on the Sudanese disciples. Akot Christian Ministries has always been directed and staffed by citizens of their community, which means there is no interruption of ministry at this time.
Please pray for peace for South Sudan.
“Yin abi nang run jot path.” (This is a Dinka greeting which means, “have a good new year”.)
Panjiei Baptist Youth Choir
Choirs perform by marching in a parade while singing praises to God. These are usually songs that recount a Bible story.
Corporate Prayer
Much of the time in the Christmas Day celebration is spent giving thanks to God for His “Indescribable gift”, 2 Cor 9:15.
Offerings
No Poinsettias, Christmas trees, or wrapped gifts are found here. The Dinka Christians decorate their offerings, to look festive.