Villages of Hope Africa

The following is a post from Sarah, a team member that is staying in Gulu a couple more weeks to continue ministry work there. Please continue to keep Sarah, Tony, and the other in-country VOHA team members in your prayers.
__________________________________________________________________________

On the 22nd I went WAY north today with a new group of people staying here at JoJo's palace- we went to the region of Odek which is the place where Kony grew up. We saw his school, his village, the Catholic church where he was an altar boy, even the rock where he spent much time (looks like enchanted rock).... it was all a bit surreal. If you don't yet know who Kony is, please google his name and or The Lord's Resistance Army. You'll find plenty.

We went up there because this group is on a mission to help with Nodding Head Disease (Syndrome). In just ONE village alone there were tons of affected children. Heartbreaking. Google the term Nodding Head Syndrome. The cases have been found mainly in the area of Odek where there were three camps (and in Southern Sudan). There's something the people have been exposed to and as of about 2007 people (babies and children) started turning up with horrible side effects. 

   

Anyway this was a last minute adventure/mission that could only have been put together by God. We interviewed the families (documented on film) to get more information on their children. I had to pray before entering the site because I wasn't sure what I'd see. God, however, met us there and I had nothing but love in my heart for these precious people so deeply wounded by Kony, the war and now this disease.

 

Before all of this took place in Odek, Tony and I met with the DEO for a few minutes this morning. The DEO is the Dept. of Education Officer of Gulu - think Super Intendant of a School District. He approved our going to several schools to observe and gather information on teacher training and support. This will be a marathon event, traveling to and coordinating with all these schools but I am hopeful that God will continue to make our paths straight. The DEO was extremely interested in what I had to say and offer in terms of services and support relative to teacher development and training. This was exciting to hear and I am even more excited to see what awaits us in the next few days.

On Sunday (24th) we attended Gulu Community Bible Church where I enjoyed an amazing worship service and fantastic message by Pastor Martin. What a blessing to worship on Sunday with my African brothers and sisters. I will keep everyone posted on the next few days as the promise to be fast paced and furious. Thanks for your support and continued prayers.