Our new Mission Partner, Dr Caroline Bell, visited St Mary’s on 22nd October to introduce herself and her work starting with Africa Inland Mission:
“When I was young I was fascinated by Africa and I believe that even then God was creating in me a desire to be involved in his mission there.
I trained to be a doctor, seeing that as a very practical way to demonstrate God’s love and serve those who do not ordinarily have access to medical help. After working short term in several different ministries I believe God’s call is for me to live and work with those who don’t know Christ.
80% of Uganda is engaged in agriculture. The healthy economy of the 1960s was crippled in 1972 by the expulsion of the Asian business community, and then virtually destroyed by tyranny and wars. It has steadily improved since 1992. Under previous government regimes there were restrictions on persecuted Christians, but there is now freedom of religion.
Who and where?
The Karimojong live in the North East corner of Uganda in a semi-arid area. They are cattle herders who move frequently in order to find pasture for their animals and to evade and avoid cattle raiders. There are relatively few Christians in Karamoja and Christianity is often seen as another way to protect oneself from evil or to bring prosperity. Churches can be found in the larger towns but have limited presence in rural villages. The Bible has been translated into the Karimojong language, but low literacy rates limit its use.
What?
I will be joining an international team based in Moroto Town. Though involved in different activities the team share a common vision: “For the Karimojong to be set free from darkness, to be set free from the bondage of destructive traditions, to be transformed into the full measure of Christ, and to reproduce this transformed life of Christ in their fellow tribesmen.” Initially I will be immersing myself in the culture and language learning through which I hope to cultivate friendships in the local community.
Please pray with me that I may be intentional in looking for opportunities to speak about Jesus and to serve the community, possibly through healthcare or education.”
Find out more about Africa Inland Mission on their website – click here.