Rooted in Jesus was first introduced to the Diocese of Nzara by a team led by Revd Mike Cotterell way back in 2012 – just one year after both the country of South Sudan and the diocese itself were formed.

Conference delegates enjoying small group practice in the recent conference

Just one year later, in 2013, a full scale civil war broke out in the newly formed country as rival groups embarked on a bitter and violent struggle for power. A peace agreement was signed in 2020, the Covid pandemic which followed close on its heels eventually receded, and the Episcopal Church of South Sudan is now forging ahead with humanitarian programmes and a renewed focus on what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.

It was in this context that we were delighted to accept an invitation from Bishop Richard Aquilla to return to Nzara. The team was led by Revd Dr David Archer, who reports as follows:

‘The training conference was based in the cathedral and ran from Wednesday 1 November to Saturday 4 November. The UK team had additional preaching responsibilities on Sunday 5 November at the cathedral and a local church. Delegates were accommodated in the local vicinity.

The conference was held in Nzara Cathedral

‘We received a very warm reception into the Diocese of Nzara, with an almost overwhelming number of people, including many school children. We were formally welcomed at the cathedral by Bishop Richard, presented with garlands and introductions completed. The remainder of day was spent in preparation for the conference including a meeting with +Richard, Josefate Datiro, the Diocesan Coordinator, Alison Mboringba, Assistant Coordinator and Emmanuel William, Diocesan Development Director.

‘The team were accommodated comfortably and graciously at the Bishop’s residence, within close proximity to the cathedral. We felt very welcome and greatly appreciated for visiting the diocese. Breakfast, lunch and dinner were all taken with the Bishop and his wife at their house, and the bishop and his wife were present throughout the conference.

‘Engagement with the programme was good throughout the duration of the conference, with 150 delegates attending. Morning teaching sessions were received enthusiastically and there was a clear willingness to engage with the materials in small group sessions. I found questions were eagerly asked during my workshops on how to lead a small group. As the training progressed, greater confidence was visible amongst the attendees in how to use and lead small groups.

Getting to grips with the methodology of Rooted in Jesus

‘The conference finished well, with Bishop Richard taking a clear lead at the closing Commissioning Service presenting certificates to 150 delegates – comprising pastors, Mother’s Union leaders, youth leaders and evangelism leaders – along with Book 1 and the Leader’s Introduction.

‘Bishop Richard is clearly deeply committed to the success of RinJ and has confidence in his Diocesan Coordinator and Assistant Coordinator. And it was wonderful to hear the testimony of Revd Abel Titus Zingbondo, Provincial Youth Director, who attributes the ministry of Rooted in Jesus in a previous conference led by Revd Mike Cotterell to be a significant factor for him now being in ministry.’

Finally, David adds:

‘The team worked extremely well together and we greatly valued our time away, while recognising that this was a physically demanding yet deeply rewarding trip. I considered it a real privilege to lead such a gifted and supportive team, and am very grateful for the opportunity to be part of Rooted in Jesus. I am grateful too that my church, St Mary’s support my involvement with RinJ, and I consider these times to be some of the most significant in my ministerial role.’

The newly trained leaders receive books and certificates

David Archer is an experienced Rooted in Jesus team leader and a Trustee of the Mathetes Trust. He was accompanied by Canon Geoff Maughan and Dan Head from the UK, working alongside Rooted in Jesus Coordinators Revd Josefate Datiro and Alison Mboringba. We are grateful both to those who upheld the team and the conference daily in prayer, and to the Relay Trust who made it financially possible.

Rooted in Jesus is published and supported by the Mathetes Trust. To find out more about the programme visit the Rooted in Jesus website.