Peace and reconciliation

The joy of reconciliation - Rev Barozi showing his delight at being back amongst the Ngiti. Chief Akobi from Gety said, "Now I know that the war between Hema and Ngiti is over."

Judy Acheson, the St John's CMS Mission Partner, has been doing wonderful work in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Agape Christian Youth, the Youth Department that she established in the Anglican Diocese of Boga, has been undertaking Peace and Reconciliation work in that Diocese since the end of the civil and tribal wars in the Congo. She writes: "I have just written the first year's report [of the Peace and Reconciliation project] and was thrilled with what has happened. Soldiers saw the reconciliation and listened to the messages given so that they in their turn repented of their part in the war; looting, raping and killing. As a result 16 Chaplains from 13th Brigade attended a training workshop. The army has asked the youth department to continue to work with them and other chaplains from other brigades.

Rev. Babote was teaching in Mafifi when a young man threw himself at Babote's feet asking for forgiveness because he had looted all his belongings and abducted his daughter. Babote put into practice his teaching and forgave that man in front of everyone and then invited him to his house. During the Synod in Boga, Rev Barozi, the team leader for this project was talking to the clergy. The Holy Spirit moved in their hearts and many repented of involvement in one way or another in the conflict. They repented and asked that in future Hemas be sent to work with the Ngitis and vice versa. So many testimonies of lives totally changed. Please pray as there is much still to be done."