Our latest Rooted in Jesus team has just returned from the Diocese of Kajo-Keji in South Sudan. We first went there in 2016, just before a renewal of the civil war which has taken such a deep toll on the people of South Sudan. The cathedral was burned down, violence led to famine, and by January the following year 95% of the people had been forced into exile in neighbouring Uganda. When we asked how we could best support them, Bishop Poggo’s successor Emmanuel Murye had replied: ‘The believers need Rooted in Jesus at this time of distress and spiritual need. Rooted in Jesus is the only tool and way forward to nourish the Christians and make the newly born Christian grow.’

Eight years have now passed, and we were delighted to be invited back to Kajo-Keji by the current Bishop, James Lule. Mike Cotterell led a team of experienced leaders from the UK and Uganda, and despite the ongoing suffering of the people the conference was remarkable for its joyful worship in song, dance and quiet reflection. Many of the participants had travelled from the Ugandan refugee camps where they still live; by the end of the conference 163 had been commissioned to lead small groups back at home.

We have published a full report on our blog here.

We remain truly grateful to all those who support Rooted in Jesus in prayer, on teams and through their giving. This conference was run with the support of the Provincial Office of the Episcopal Church of South Sudan, and of the Relay Trust who provided a grant to the diocese to help with food and travel costs for those attending.

To find out more about Rooted in Jesus visit our website here.
Posted 14th November 2024.