Ministry News
Hope for the Children of Southern Sudan
Thanksgiving Newsletter November 2011
November 28, 2011
Hello Friends:
It's hard to believe that Thanksgiving has now passed and Christmas season is here. Although we are in South Sudan, we celebrated Thanksgiving Day with many people around the table. And not all were Americans. We had represented there Germany, UK, Ghana, as well as several states from the US.
Turkey is not found here so someone brought chicken (which is hard to come by because it is so expensive) and we had lots of fruits and vegetables. Katie Schultz, Jane Robinson's granddaughter who is here for a 6 month work program with Steve Hodges, and Diantha Hodges did all the cooking and we had quite a feast. We even had pumpkin pie (thanks to Diantha) and pumpkin doughnuts (thanks to Katie). Jane made homemade rolls and by the end of the meal everyone was stuffed - just like back home. The only difference is that there was no TV or football games to watch. I don't think anyone minded because the fellowship was special.
Things continue to move along here and everyday we see God at work. Just last Sunday, Yei UMC had 18 baptisms and one profession of faith. At another church a man rededicated his life to Christ and there was singing, beating of drums, dancing and rejoicing. The pastors are now having communion with their congregations and doing a wonderful job. Jane Robinson, from First Maryville UMC, has been here for two weeks and was able to worship with Pukuka UMC, with whom they have established a partnership. The pastor used the communion chalice and paten given to them as a gift from First Maryville.
At present they are meeting under a shade tree awaiting construction of their new church after a fire destroyed the thatch structure. They are making bricks and will start the building process in January as soon as they have enough bricks.
The Wright family and friends came to dedicate Captain's House. This was done on November 20 and, although Linda could not be here in person, she was able to "attend" by Skype. The service was very special as Linda and Walt's children participated and voiced how pleased their father would be to see what is being done to further God's kingdom in South Sudan. Linda wanted to have a tea for the ladies so, this too, was done and Linda attended by Skype. Linda had her tea at the same time and it was a special time when the ladies stood and had prayer for her.
Last week Libby attended a 4 day workshop given by Tearfund on child rights and advocacy. The information was helpful as we struggle to determine how best to serve the vulnerable and needy children. The guardian capacity building project, called Seeds for Sprouts, that we hoped to start this month had to be postponed due to funding availability but plans will go forward in January 2012.
In preparation for the orphan scholarship program, we purchased some school supplies using money provided by Change for Children. We were able to get approximately $1,000.00 worth of school supplies for $600.00. Since receiving the Change for Children grant, we have been able to help many orphans with school needs, clothing, medical services, and food. Just this week, one of the recipients asked me to tell the donors thank you for paying for his education. When we first met him, he would not smile. His face now shines with the light of Jesus and his life has been transformed.
We will be leaving South Sudan tomorrow and start home to spend the Christmas holidays with our families. While we hate to leave our South Sudan family and will miss them greatly, we look forward to some much needed rest and visiting with family and friends. So, you will not hear from us in December, but know that we wish you all a blessed and joyous Christmas.
May you always have the peace in your heart that only our risen Christ can give and may everyday be a celebration unto Him.
Fred and Libby
