Farewells in Juba and request for prayer

A farewell gathering with the facilitators of the HHTN workshop

In March we returned to the United States after almost eight years of life and ministry in South Sudan. Words cannot do justice to the manifold ways we have been blessed, challenged, inspired, and changed by our friends and colleagues and the peoples of South Sudan who offered us welcome and hospitality at every turn. The endless cups of tea, the theological conversations, the day-to-day “life stuff,” learning the local Arabic and greetings in several of the 64 languages, full immersion of life in Juba plus travel to various parts of the country, coupled with coming alongside friends and partners in ministry in the realms of healing and reconciliation, theological studies, and spiritual formation fill the unique and unforgettable life experiences we have been privileged to participate in.

A farewell gathering with former colleagues at NTC

Just as we were leaving, the fragile peace in South Sudan was unraveling and tensions were as high as they have been since a peace agreement was signed in 2018. There have been several attacks between the government and some other militia in the last few weeks and many civilians have been killed and thousands displaced. Please join us in praying for South Sudan, particularly that the principal leaders of the country would be willing to dialogue so that peace and stability can be restored.


“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven" (Ecclesiastes 3: 1). On that note, our time of transition has come. Our prayers and our love for our South Sudanese friends and former colleagues will always remain. Our prayers and our love for fellow expatriate missionaries in South Sudan will always remain. We do not know our next steps in mission and ministry, but we are so grateful for the last eight years in such a special place with such faithful and faith-filled people. “Allah kariim!” God is so generous, so good.

 

Most mornings we took an early walk while it was cool.

This is a glimpse of the sunrise in our neighborhood.

Enjoying a quiet morning by the Nile River