Reflections on an International Mission Trip to South Sudan
Sharon Brugger Norton, serving as the executive director of Global Mission for the Church of the Brethren, undertook her first international trip to South Sudan, documenting poignant experiences. Key highlights include encounters with resilient community leaders, the impact of violence on local populations, and the importance of education and spiritual support in recovery efforts. The narratives shared depict an overarching theme of faith, resilience, and hope in the face of adversity.
The first international trip of Sharon Brugger Norton as the executive director of Global Mission for the Church of the Brethren took place in South Sudan from February 1 to 15. Accompanied by Carolyn and Roger Schrock, she documented her experiences in a journal detailing the various encounters and remarkable stories of resilience amid hardship.
On February 2, Sharon visited the Juba regional bishop of the Africa Inland Church, James. He recounted a profound tale of women responding to a divine call by planting a church in a remote area west of Juba. Initially acting without formal direction, these women secured a water pump that drew the community, eventually leading to the establishment of a church building and a male pastor while the women continued their evangelistic efforts.
On February 7, Sharon met Rose, the president of the local women’s association in Magwi County and a dedicated farmer. Rose expressed her deep enjoyment of farming and committed to aiding Brethren Global Services by donating land for crop cultivation. Following this, Sharon visited an Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp where the turmoil caused by cattle raids and violence had displaced 25,000 individuals, exacerbating their suffering and dire conditions.
During a stark reflection on February 8, Sharon noted Farmer Rose’s engagement with her NGO, which aimed to address gender-based violence while promoting education and micro-financing for women. Rose’s integrity inspired those around her, underscoring the belief in women’s reliability in financial matters.
On February 9, Sharon participated in a lively worship service at the Khor English Church of the Brethren. Here, she delivered a sermon to a congregation predominantly composed of women and children. As she engaged with church leaders and witnessed their enthusiasm for evangelism, she noted the importance of community and trust in their practices.
On February 11, Sharon traveled to Upuo Village, where she encountered a vibrant community recovering from past flooding that had devastated their crops. She encountered many children in need of nutritional support and highlighted the efforts of local leaders like Taban, who had provided fruit trees to supplement meals and enhance nutrition.
Sharon visited the Mangateen IDP camp on February 13, where she was confronted with the harsh realities of life in a camp built on a dump. Amid the visible malnourishment of children, she also encountered hope and gratitude from residents who had been aided by Roger and Carolyn over the years. Their lasting impact resonated through the voices of individuals like Nyakuol, who attributed her educational opportunities to the advocacy efforts made by Roger and Carolyn.
In summary, the journal entries reveal a narrative of struggle and resilience among communities in South Sudan. Encounters with dedicating individuals like Farmer Rose and the spirit observed in communities grappling with violence and displacement underscore the ongoing mission of the Church of the Brethren. Emphasis on education and spiritual guidance as crucial components for recovery emerged as a pivotal theme throughout the reflections.
The trip to South Sudan highlighted the challenges faced by communities under distress due to violence and displacement. Sharon’s reflections emphasize not only the resilience of individuals such as Farmer Rose and the communities they serve but also the importance of education and spiritual support in recovery efforts. Moreover, the Church of the Brethren’s active engagement in assisting those in need and articulating a vision for a future grounded in hope and education is vital in the mission’s ongoing endeavors.
Original Source: www.brethren.org
