Tour of the Bible Training in Mongalla, South Sudan!

Dear Esteemed Ministry Partners of PIEI-ACCLD,

We sincerely appreciate your prayers and financial contributions, which helped make our recent 'Tour of the Bible' training a success. A significant gathering of 56 pastors and church leaders from seven different denominations and four distinct ethnic backgrounds took place virtually from February 13 to March 1. This event equipped participants with knowledge and understanding in preaching, reconciliation, and effective church leadership.

It was facilitated by Pastor Fred Woodward, a renowned expert on the teachings of God’s Word, who offers an enlightening and transformative exploration of the Bible. This comprehensive program equips our pastors and church leaders with a profound understanding and practical application of Scripture. It equips them with the tools to effectively preach, shepherd their congregations, and inspire their communities to draw closer to Christ. This immersive experience gave invaluable insights to enhance their ministry and foster spiritual growth in those they serve.

South Sudan's stability hinges on the presence of well-equipped church leaders who passionately promote the gospel—a message steeped in God’s truth, love, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Well-equipped church leaders are pivotal in bridging ethnic divides, nurturing harmony, and inspiring a collective spirit that transcends differences, ultimately paving the way for a brighter, more cohesive society. PIEI-ACCLD envisions empowering church leaders to use the Word of God to reconcile and unite the world’s youngest nation, which has been devastated by civil and clan hatred and conflict.

Our training programs offer a unique opportunity to bring together pastors and church leaders from diverse churches, denominations, and ethnic backgrounds under one roof, where they can learn, fellowship, and share a meal as brothers and sisters, thereby combating tribal hatred and animosity. Through engaging and interactive learning experiences, participants foster meaningful connections and deepen their fellowship, creating a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued and embraced. These gatherings foster understanding, empathy, and unity, ultimately contributing to a more harmonious community.

Bishop Daniel Awuol Ayuel of the Sudan Pentecostal Church (SPC) shared his testimony on behalf of the graduates with enthusiasm, excitement, and gratitude. He observed that the training gave him a deeper understanding and application of the Bible, and he intended to replicate it by training his pastors and church leaders. He also emphasized that PIEI-ACCLD was the first Christian organization to invite and train pastors and church leaders from various denominations and ethnic backgrounds, representing a significant step toward promoting peace through church leadership.

This ongoing political turmoil in South Sudan has severely limited opportunities for pastors and church leaders to access fundamental theological education, as many have been unable to attend essential training programs and theological schools.

As a result, the foundational teachings of the church have become compromised, allowing cultural beliefs and local practices to infiltrate and overshadow the core tenets of faith.

The equipping of church leaders through proper training is crucial for upholding and nurturing the spiritual integrity of the church, thereby fostering resilience and leadership within their communities in the face of ongoing challenges encountered.

The Gift of the Bible: Our pastors were also given tribal Bibles to effectively advance the Great Commission beyond their ethnic borders. The Bible is the most wonderful gift that PIEI-ACCLD can offer to pastors and church leaders who have finished the Tour of the Bible training, enabling them to read and teach it to their congregations. We are truly thankful to our partners for allowing us to offer the gift of the Bible to those in greatest need. In South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, many challenges arise daily. Yet together, we are nurturing a spirit of hope and resilience, enabling these leaders to uplift their communities and guide them through adversity.

The Impact of the Jesus Film: The Jesus Film is a powerful and transformative ministry tool that PIEI-ACCLD utilizes to engage a diverse range of audiences, with a particular emphasis on children and youth. Beyond our training initiatives, we were fortunate to showcase the Jesus Film, allowing attendees to explore the compelling narrative of our Lord’s birth, crucifixion, and glorious resurrection, all presented in their native languages. This enriching experience deepens their understanding of the Gospel and fosters a personal connection to the profound teachings of Christ.

Everyone was focused on watching the Jesus Film, and we praise the Lord for the 42 lives that were surrendered to Him during the altar call. PIEI-ACCLD is committed to ministering not only to pastors but also to children, youth, women, and men. Our goal is to draw them closer to the Lord as brothers and sisters, regardless of their backgrounds.

Praise and Thanksgiving:

• We thank the Lord for our dedicated partners, whose prayers and generous support have enabled us to provide vital Tour of the Bible training in Mongalla, South Sudan.

• We praise the Lord for our facilitator, Pastor Fred Woodward, whose passion, selflessness, and expertise in promoting the Great Commission have impacted and transformed countless lives.

• We are grateful for the prayers, support, and guidance from our U.S. and South Sudan boards.

• We thank the Lord for helping me endure the challenges of mosquitoes and extreme heat during this time. I thank God for caring for my wife, Rachel, while I was in the mission field.

Prayer Requests:

1. Please pray that our trained pastors will be prudent stewards of biblical knowledge entrusted to them.

2. Pray for the de-escalation of the ongoing conflict in the Upper Nile and Jonglei States, South Sudan.

3. Pray for our Partnership Committee in the U.S. that God may grant them wisdom and favor to guide the PIEI-ACCLD mission in South Sudan.

4. Pray for my wife, Rachel, my African and American families, that God will grant them good health and favor.

5. I contracted malaria, pneumonia, and a fever while in the field—please pray for my complete and timely recovery.

PIEI-ACCLD believes that well-equipped church leaders have a divine mandate to promote peace, love, unity, and reconciliation throughout South Sudan. Therefore, biblical training and discipleship programs are essential for pastors to effectively preach, guide their congregations, and serve as ambassadors for peace and reconciliation.

To assist God's mission in South Sudan, you can contribute through an online donation here: Donate To South Sudan - ACCLD

You can also write a check payable to Partners in Evangelism International and mail it to PIEI, 3441 North Cicero Avenue, Chicago, IL 60641—memo: South Sudan: ACCLD Ministry.

Thank you, and God bless,

Dominic Deng Ater Machar,

National Director, Partners In Evangelism International—African Center for Christian Leadership and Development (PIEI-ACCLD), South Sudan.

Happy Thanksgiving!

November 2024

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever” (Psalms 107:1).

Dear Friends of PIEI-ACCLD South Sudan,

We wish you a Happy Thanksgiving and God's special blessings for you and your family in Jesus' mighty name. Thank you for your faithful partnership in pursuing and furthering the Great Commission in South Sudan and the East African refugee camps. Your prayers and financial support have enabled us to provide much-needed biblical and leadership training and discipleship programs, and we are very thankful to you. May “The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make his face shine on you and be gracious to you; the Lord turn his face toward you and give you peace” (Numbers 6:24-26).

Beloved, I am deeply grateful to provide you with an impactful report on the significance of our training and follow-up programs. PIEI-ACCLD South Sudan focuses on two essential components: training and follow-up. Our team revisits the churches where pastors have completed our training program to evaluate its impact on numerical growth, improved preaching, dynamic Sunday and youth ministries, responsible stewardship of resources, and peace and conflict resolution. The follow-up process is a vital part of our ministry. It allows us to assess the effectiveness of our training program and serves as an important evaluative tool, demonstrating our commitment to continuous improvement.

This photo depicts a gathering of host and refugee pastors meeting for the first time under the spiritual guidance of PIEI-ACCLD. We believe it is both spiritually and relationally essential to extend our training program to the host pastors, who play a vital role in fostering and strengthening relationships between the host and refugee communities. According to ReliefWeb International, as of June 30, 2024, the Kakuma refugee camp is home to 289,681 refugees and asylum-seekers. The follow-up provides a clearer understanding of local churches' needs to advance the Great Commission effectively.

We have observed that escalating tribal and clan animosities within the camp are hindering the Church's ability to lead people to Christ. These animosities stem from the pastors' lack of preparation for ministry, resulting in many pastors harboring unforgiveness towards their fellow pastors from different tribes or clans. Led by the Lord, I preached on the themes of biblical forgiveness, peace, and reconciliation at St. Andrews Episcopal Church, following the example set by Jesus: "…Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing" (Luke 23:34). I stressed that in heaven, there are no tribes, clans, or denominations—only saints.

I followed up with Pastor James Nyadung from the African Inland Church (AIC) Murle congregation in Kakuma 4 to assess the impact of the 158 plastic chairs we helped them purchase. I was delighted to discover that Bible study groups have been formed and are thriving, especially among the youth and women who genuinely thirst for the Word of God.

The AIC congregation lacks tribal Bibles, yet the young people actively seek to understand and fulfill God's will. This reflects God's love for His people, transcending tribe, race, or social status. Additionally, AIC demonstrates excellent stewardship in caring for their plastic chairs. After the service, I invited AIC leaders to join me and my sister for lunch and fellowship at her house in another part of the camp.

Further, I followed up with Pastor Jacob, curate at St. Stephen, where I preached on "Hope in Times of Despair." Pastor Jacob and his congregation are pursuing sound teachings. He attributed his remarkable spiritual leadership to our training and discipleship programs, offering him the skills to preach, lead, and reconcile his community well. Pastor Jacob has vibrant Bible Study Groups, a Women's Program, and Sunday and Youth Ministries in his church. Our partners' support is crucial in enhancing Pastor Jacob's leadership and the thriving of church programs. God uses PIEI-ACCLD South Sudan to influence pastors and community leaders to transform their churches and communities. PIEI-ACCLD recognized the importance of strengthening collaboration with Cornerstone Ministries International, led by Pastor John Eyanae in Kakuma Town, where I preached about “Oneness in Christ.” In a spirit of prayer, the leadership of Cornerstone Ministries International requested that PIEI-ACCLD consider training their pastors on topics including the Tour of the Bible, Theology of Work, Stewardship, and ministries focused on Children, Youth, and Women. While we did not make any promises, we encouraged them to seek God's guidance.

Our research identified gaps in children's and youth ministries. However, every church should have vibrant children's and youth ministries, especially if its pastors have completed our Tour of the Bible Training. PIEI-ACCLD believes that children are the foundation of tomorrow's church, and we are committed to training their pastors and Sunday school teachers to help the children grow in their knowledge of God. “…Jesus called them to Him and said, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of God” (Luke 18:16). Our mission is to nurture and invest in children by planting four essential seeds:

1. The seed of a relationship with Jesus.

2. The seed of a love for God’s Word.

3. The seed of serving the Church.

4. The seed of a willingness to evangelize and share their faith stories.

**Prayer Requests**

 Pray for God to provide funds to train and disciple more pastors and purchase land in Juba, S. Sudan, that will serve as our headquarters and training center.

 Please pray for my wife, Rachel, for God to restore her health.

 Pray for wisdom, discernment, and courage to spearhead the vision and mission of PIEI-ACCLD.

 Pray for refugees from Sudan who escaped war and sought refuge in S. Sudan that they may find salvation, protection, and provision.

 Pray for our U.S. Partnership Committee for God’s favor upon them as they lead and mobilize funds to further the Great Commission in S. Sudan and the East African refugee camps.

Follow-up is a vital aspect of PIEI-ACCLD South Sudan's ministries. It allows us to evaluate and confirm the scope and depth of the impact made in local churches attended by pastors and church leaders who participated in our training. We visit these churches to observe how our trained pastors preach, lead Bible study groups, manage resources, and foster reconciliation in communities affected by tribal and clan conflict. We are truly grateful to our Ministry Partners, whose prayers and financial support form the foundation of our efforts to promote the Great Commission in South Sudan and the East African refugee camps. To support God's work in South Sudan and refugee camps, you can make an online donation by using the donate button below. You can also write a check payable to Partners in Evangelism International and mail it to PIEI, 3441 North Cicero Avenue, Chicago, IL 60641—memo: South Sudan-ACCLD Ministry.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Yours Faithfully,

Dominic Deng A. Machar,

National Director, Partners In Evangelism International—African Center for Christian Leadership and Development (PIEI-ACCLD).

Kakuma Training

Dear Friends of PIEI-ACCLD South Sudan,

A staggering 95% of pastors in South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation, and the East African refugee camps lack even basic theological training. The civil war has devastated countless lives and obliterated educational institutions, driving millions to seek refuge in neighboring countries. Training and coaching pastors and church leaders in S. Sudan and refugee camps is essential and imperative.

Your prayers and financial support have been a beacon of hope for these pastors and church leaders. They underpin the vital work that PIEI ACCLD champions, fostering reconciliation in communities ravaged by conflict. Your support allows our pastors to learn, understand, internalize, and apply the word of God. PIEI-ACCLD acknowledges and appreciates your prayers and financial partners, enabling us to provide much-needed training and coaching programs.

From August 5th to September 6th, PIEI-ACCLD successfully concluded Pastors' Leadership Training Seminars (PLTS) and a Virtual Tour of Bible Training for refugee pastors and church leaders. Fifty-seven (57) church leaders in our PLTS and forty-eight (48) attended Virtual Tour of the Bible Training programs.

These church leaders represent seven diverse denominations and 37 churches across the camps. PIEI-ACCLD works with local church leaders to assess their spiritual and physical needs accurately.

Our collaborative assessment of their needs enables us to invite Church and community leaders to biblical peace, forgiveness, and reconciliation workshops. These workshops cultivate unity and fellowship among various churches, denominations, and ethnicities.

The Bible is more than a book; it is a life-changing gift bestowed upon pastors who are Faithful, Available, Teachable, and Stewards of their communities. The provisions of Bibles, bicycles, motorcycles, and food relief have made our mission among the poor and vulnerable communities unique and admirable. An African saying, “An empty stomach has no ears,” exemplifies the essence of the ministry.

Our holistic ministry approach enables pastors to replicate their biblical knowledge through training and coaching others. Your partnership allows PIEI-ACCLD to ensure that the future of the Church in South Sudan lies in the hands of well-equipped pastors. We want to highlight that our Pastors' Leadership Training Seminars (PLTS) in refugee camps would not have been achievable without the generous support from Cottonwood Church in Michigan.

PIEI-ACCLD deeply appreciates Cottonwood Church's steadfast commitment to equipping the Church. Our pastors and their communities are thankful for the opportunity to receive training and Bibles, which reflect God's love. As Paul states in his Epistle to Corinthians, an impactful work of the ministry requires someone to plant the seed, others to water it, and God to make it grow: “I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow” (1 Corinthians 3:6).

Furthermore, our third cohort of the "Virtual Tour of Bible Training" for refugee pastors and church leaders owes its success to Oak Point Church (OPC) and Pastor Fred Woodward. OPC’s dedication to the Great Commission in Africa has been truly transformative. We earnestly hope you continue to support PIEI-ACCLD in advancing the Great Commission in these critical areas. Your partnership has embodied collaboration in the work of faith.

**Prayer Requests**

• Pray for PIEI-ACCLD's mission to transform S. Sudan and East African refugee camps biblically.

• Pray for refugees from Sudan who escaped war and sought refuge in S. Sudan that they may find salvation, protection, and provision.

• Pray for our pastors and church leaders to train and disciple their communities under God's guidance.

• Pray for our Partnership Committee in the U.S. for good health, wisdom, and favor with God.

• Pray for God to provide funds to purchase land in Juba, S. Sudan, that will serve as our headquarters and training center.

• Please pray for my wife, Rachel, and for God to restore her health. Also, pray for wisdom, discernment, and courage to spearhead the vision and mission of PIEI-ACCLD.

We are profoundly grateful for your ongoing partnership with PIEI-ACCLD to train and disciple faithful followers of Christ. Your invaluable support has been a cornerstone of our mission, allowing us to create a tangible spiritual difference for the glory of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Together, we can establish a biblical foundation in a land fraught with turmoil. Your generous support is essential to sustain this crucial work, and its impact is immeasurable.

To support God's work in South Sudan and refugee camps, you can make an online donation by clicking the Donate button below. You can also write a check payable to Partners in Evangelism International and mail it to PIEI, 3441 North Cicero Avenue, Chicago, IL 60641—memo: South Sudan: ACCLD Ministry.

Thank you, and God bless,

Dominic Deng Ater Machar,

National Director, Partners In Evangelism International—African Center for Christian Leadership and Development (PIEI-ACCLD) South Sudan.

Ministry Launch!

We are thrilled to announce the launch of Partners In Evangelism International, also known as PIEI-ACCLD: African Center for Christian Leadership and Development in South Sudan, the world’s youngest nation. This interdenominational Christian organization was established in 2023 to equip and empower pastors and church leaders with the biblical and leadership knowledge, skills, and experiences they need to lead effective ministries in the church and community. PIEI-ACCLD is firmly committed to the belief that the church's future in South Sudan lies in its well-equipped servant-leaders who are committed to their calling and passionate about transferring their biblical and leadership knowledge, skills, and experiences to equip others for the practical realization of holistic societal transformation.