Sharon Brugger Norton’s first international trip as executive director of Global Mission for the Church of the Brethren to South Sudan revealed the resilience and determination of local communities in addressing challenges. The journey highlighted women-led initiatives in church planting, agricultural support, responses to violence, and the necessity for spiritual and educational resources in fostering lasting positive change.
Sharon Brugger Norton embarked on her inaugural international journey as executive director of Global Mission for the Church of the Brethren to South Sudan from February 1 to 15, traveling with a team led by Carolyn and Roger Schrock. This article shares notable excerpts from her insightful daily journal entries, which highlight personal encounters and observations during the trip.
On February 2, Norton visited James, the bishop of the Africa Inland Church in Juba, who recounted a remarkable story about local women who initiated the planting of a church on their own volition. Guided by their spiritual conviction, these women established a church, erected a simple building, and contributed a vital water pump, fostering community engagement and spreading the gospel.
On February 7, Norton met with Rose, the president of the women’s association in Magwi County and an active farmer. During a visit to her farm, they discussed the pressing challenges resulting from the arrival of Dinka Bor cattle herders at a nearby Internally Displaced People (IDP) camp, which resulted in violence and destruction. This invasion left many people homeless and exacerbated the ongoing cycle of retaliation between communities affected by historic conflicts.
On February 8, Farmer Rose unexpectedly joined the team and shared insights about her NGO, which focuses on addressing gender-based violence and providing support to women. Her commitment included purchasing $10,000 in food and supplies for the IDPs, with an emphasis on the trustworthiness of women in financial matters compared to their male counterparts.
On February 9, at Khor English Church of the Brethren, Norton preached to approximately 70 attendees. The building was self-constructed with local materials, and the congregation displayed remarkable enthusiasm in worship. Norton reflected on the foundational elements of trust and faith, paralleling them to a child’s reliance on their mother, thus illustrating the essence of belief in Christ.
On February 11, Norton visited Upuo, the largest village observed during her trip. This community had previously received emergency aid from Brethren Disaster Ministries due to flooding. Despite facing hardship, the villagers expressed optimism and gratitude. The local church is actively developing, led by dedicated evangelists striving for theological training.
On February 13, the team visited Mangateen IDP camp, witnessing extreme conditions of malnutrition among children and overall despair. However, the visit was characterized by uplifting encounters with community members who expressed gratitude and hope inspired by the efforts of Roger and Carolyn over the years. Norton relayed the dire need for spiritual nourishment and education as pivotal requirements for transforming the lives of South Sudanese people, echoing sentiments voiced by a local leader.
These journal entries provide a poignant depiction of the resilient spirit of South Sudan, highlighting the crucial roles of faith, gender dynamics, community support, and the urgent need for systemic educational reforms in the region.
In summary, Sharon Brugger Norton’s firsthand experiences in South Sudan illustrate the profound impact of grassroots initiatives led by local women and communities. Through her engagements, she emphasizes the importance of spiritual support, educational opportunities, and the necessity for sustained humanitarian assistance. The stories shared serve as a testament to resilience amidst adversity and the pivotal role of love and faith in transformative social change.
Original Source: www.brethren.org
