“Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall trouble or hardship or persecution or famine or nakedness or danger or sword?….No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” Romans 8:35 & 37
I love my church! This morning was another glorious worship experience. The message, music, audio visuals, the video clips, comfortable seating and perfect temperature all contribute to the expected perfect Sunday morning service.
Our brothers and sisters in Akot, South Sudan feel the same about their Sunday morning service. They will tell you it is their favorite day of the week, and they look forward to Sunday. However their church service is quite different than ours. A drum is the only equipment they have, and it is used to call the people to worship. There is no roof, walls, carpet, pews, bathrooms, water fountains or audio visual aides. There is a shade tree and some logs to sit on. Yet, the singing, preaching, testimonies, prayer and fellowship is vibrant. And the Spirit of God is present.
Churches in and around Akot are maturing and multiplying themselves. Many pastors are in our training classes, and they are leading many people to new faith in Christ. Forty-three baptisms took place in December.
The kingdom of God is advancing despite the unbelievable obstacles the people of South Sudan face daily. The UN reports that nearly a quarter of the country’s population are in urgent need of food assistance. Millions have fled to refugee camps due to attacks by militant groups. It is obvious that “The Joy of the Lord” is their strength (Nehemiah 8:10).
These pictures are from Panjiei Baptist Church. A new women’s discipleship group began there a few months ago. Living Water Community Transformation contributed a “Jesus Well” for this church. Then a new men’s discipleship group developed there. Just this week we learned that Panjiei church members, including ladies, are making mud bricks to build their first building. The women are collecting grass to make their traditional grass roof. These grass roofs need to be replaced every 3-4 years. LWCT is praying for funds in order to bless Panjiei Baptist by contributing a more permanent roof made of metal.
Please continue to pray for our Christian brethren in Akot. If you would like to donate toward a church roof, or any other designated purpose, please do so by mailing a check. Or you can use a credit card by going to our website.
Jesus Well Panjiei Baptist Church
Women making bricks for church