When Plans Change: Trust God!
We had hoped to return to South Sudan this month, but several circumstances have made us believe God is calling us to remain stateside for now. The recent Ebola outbreak has created challenges and uncertainty regarding international travel and re-entry into the United States. At the same time, the Tonj region of South Sudan is experiencing significant insecurity, making it difficult and potentially unsafe to travel to the villages where much of our ministry takes place. Two days before we had planned to depart, Zeke suffered a torn retina and is currently undergoing treatment and recovery. While we are disappointed not to be with our South Sudanese team and the communities we love and serve, we trust that God is directing our steps. We are grateful that our team and missionaries continue to faithfully lead the ministry on the ground.
Rather than traveling to Africa, we are making plans for a road trip to California this summer. We see this as an opportunity to reconnect with supporters, churches, and friends who make this ministry possible. If we are passing through your area, we would love the chance to meet for coffee, share an update, answer questions, and thank you personally for your partnership. We are also eager to connect with new individuals and churches who may have a heart for serving vulnerable women, children and villages in South Sudan.
Although our travel plans have changed, our mission has not. Thank you for continuing to pray, encourage, and stand with us as God opens new doors for ministry.
Media with a Mission!
One of the exciting areas of growth at In Deed And Truth Ministries is our Media Training Program. Three years ago, we developed a comprehensive curriculum designed to equip young leaders with practical skills in photography, videography, AI-generated music, writing, social media management, and mentoring. You can check out their contribution through our Facebook and Instagram pages.
However, our goal is not simply to provide vocational training. We believe that skills without the Gospel fall short of God’s purpose. For this reason, the program follows a model similar to our Community Health Evangelism (CHE) training, integrating biblical discipleship into every lesson. Alongside technical training, students explore spiritual themes such as reflecting the image of Christ, viewing life through God’s perspective, walking in His light, and keeping our focus on Him.
Since the program began, six students have enrolled in this challenging course of study. The training requires commitment, perseverance, and the successful completion of numerous practical assessments. This month, we celebrated a major milestone as our first student completed the program and received his certificate. We are especially encouraged not only by his growth in media skills, but also by the spiritual maturity and Christlike character he has developed throughout the journey.
Leadership From Within!
As Community Health Evangelism (CHE) continues to expand into new communities, we are strengthening our leadership team to support this growth. Last month, we were excited to promote one of our outstanding CHE champions, David Diir, to the new position of Deputy Program Manager.
David was born 26 years ago in the village of Pawel to a farming family. Life was difficult, marked by hunger, sickness, and financial hardship. Several times he was forced to leave school because his family could not afford the fees. Determined to continue his education, he worked on neighboring farms until he earned enough money to return to class.
As a young man living in a cattle camp, David became involved with a group planning cattle raids against rival clans. Everything changed when he heard the Gospel being preached by Pastor Kharlo at Calvary Chapel in Pawel. Deeply convicted, David gave his life to Christ and left his former path behind.
The LORD says, “I will guide you along the best pathway for your life. I will advise you and watch over you.” Psalm 32:8
Since joining our team as a CHE Trainer in 2022, David has consistently demonstrated integrity, leadership, and a passion for serving others. We are grateful to see God raising up leaders from within the communities we serve. Please pray for David as he steps into this important role and helps communities flourish as God intended.