THE GREAT COMMISSION: SPREADING THE GOSPEL THROUGH SPORTS
The African Diaspora is one of the main focuses on the Africa Region, and the Sudan South District is a district that meets in a diaspora across East Africa in refugee camps, neighbourhoods and traditional church buildings. The district prioritises uniting youth through sports, which not only promotes evangelism but also fosters connection among them. The South Sudanese people, especially the youth, face deep divisions politically, socially, and economically. Many of them are living as refugees outside their country due to ongoing conflict.
In the spirit of a sports tournament held earlier in the year, on 27 September a one-day sports gala was hosted by South Sudanese youth in Kampala, Uganda, where missionary, Rev John Yual Nguth, and Pst Seith Bogere, the Africa East Field NYI Coordinator, brought together hundreds of youth and church leaders for a football/soccer tournament. The competition promoted Christ-like discipleship through sports and has become a successful strategy for fostering unity and harmony among diverse faith groups.
Rev Yual was able to share a message of hope with the young people gathered, sharing the Good News with each one of them. There were also times of prayer amongst teams and coaches.
This sports ministry works towards unity in a context where South Sudanese have long been divided by war and societal differences. Today, in a society that remains fragmented by religious and cultural distinctions, the Church of the Nazarene is committed to finding effective ways to unite its youth. Sports have proven to be a powerful tool in bringing young people together under one umbrella from different walk of life and beliefs.
Together, we can empower them to make Christ-like disciples that extend beyond the church walls.
