“We in Africa need you,” said Bishop Alfred Olwa to those gathered at the Diocese of Sydney’s Synod in September. “We need your training capacity. We need you to encourage us in staying faithful in times of persecution and compromise. We need you. But the other side of the coin – I say this humbly – I believe you also need us.” 

Visiting from the Diocese of Lango in Uganda, Bishop Alfred went on to explain that the church in Sydney could learn from Africa’s testimony of God’s power to grow the church in hardship and their witness of resilience through poverty, pain, and HIV/AIDS. And also their passion for prayer and praise! 

Bishop Alfred is no stranger to Sydney, having graduated with his PhD from Moore Theological College in 2012. He was visiting with Professor Aaron Mushenygezi, the Vice Chancellor of Uganda Christian University (UCU), where Bishop Alfred is also the Chair of the Council. Anglican Aid has been strengthening the growing church in Uganda and East Africa by supporting the training of students to study Theology at UCU for more than 10 years. Many are from neighbouring countries of Tanzania, South Sudan, and Burundi. Professor Aaron sincerely thanked all who have so generously given to support students at UCU. 

Bishop Alfred encouraged Synod members: “I want to affirm that what we do together in training, in mission, and in partnership truly strengthens the gospel and the body of Christ!” 

Pray:

• Praise God that Bible colleges in DR Congo continue training leaders for God’s church despite ongoing troubles. Pray for peace in the country.