A Christmas gift for Maridi
Bishop Justin and our link Diocese of Maridi in South Sudan have received some great news for Christmas. Northern Ireland charity, Fields of Life, has announced that they will undertake to build a primary school in the diocese.
“The news has increased our joy and uplifted our spirit,” said Bishop Justin, who will be asked for a project proposal from FOL so that the school is built where the need is greatest.
Schooling is high on the Bishop’s mission agenda after education suffered badly during the conflict that began in the 1980s. Most of the teachers went to war and many school buildings were destroyed. Classes still meet under trees, vulnerable to the weather and without proper equipment and so a proper building is a great blessing and a witness to the community.
Jane Corbett of Dromore Cathedral, recently wrote to Bishop Justin, asking what Christmas would be like for the people of Maridi and here is his reply…
“People are now busy preparing for Christmas by struggling to get new dresses for their family members. To do this some families take all their food crops to the market and sell it with a cheap price in order to get what the family requires.
Part of the commercialisation of Christmas is also here. The good thing is that on Christmas day, all the churches will be full as everybody will be in the church. The celebration continues for two to three days where every family will be ready to welcome any visitor for meals.
That shortly changes back to a real life of scarcity and suffering again after the festivities. Rains have stopped and it is now very hot by day and a bit cold by night.
Amidst the cold weather, may your hearts be warm for the Lord and we wish you all Happy Christmas.”
Bishop Justin Badi