South Sudan

Beginnings

In the early 2000s, Sudan’s second civil war was nearing its end. Many people in the southern region were displaced, under-supported, and unreached by the church. Kennedy Obura and other local Christians saw the need and began their ministry alongside the Episcopal Church. Kennedy and David Bikokwa then obtained official permission in 2006 to register a new ministry of their own (South Sudan Churches of Christ). From 2006-2008 the ministry built a compound with a Bible school, a nursery, housing, and even an eye-glass clinic. In 2009, Kennedy and David got connected with Shawn Tyler eventually leading them to find relationships with many other church leaders in Africa. Through these relationships and common goals, they helped start Messiah Theological Institute in Uganda. As the years went on South Sudan obtained independence, but the lack of support from the government left many of the region still dangerous to travel. With dangers rising and David leaving to do work in Kenya, funding began to dwindle. While partnerships still remained with Shawn (Quaker Ave Church of Christ) and others, a recent MTI graduate from Kenya, Richard Okwera, decided to help Kennedy and continue the mission to today.

With dreams to rebuild, reconnect, and re-establish holistic outreach in post-pandemic South Sudan, Richard and Kennedy seek support for the war-torn refugees and local churches. Oakridge has decided to partner with Quaker Ave to support Richard and Kennedy spread good news among God’s children in South Sudan. We invite you into this story and to participate in God’s global mission. Please keep Richard and Kennedy in your prayers and support them through our donation link.