An Update on 'The Three Amigos'

Niall reflects on the first phase of their visit to Ibba.

First of all, it’s an absolute pleasure to be here in Ibba, South Sudan.

I always have felt the need to do better and even though we are only 5 days into our fortnight, I can truly see myself as a better person.

During my few days here so far, I have seen kindness, laughter, love and all round care from the people of Ibba. They have welcomed us with open arms and it’s something I know that “The Three Amigos” (Dennis, Stephen and myself) will take home with us forever in our hearts.

Today, Friday 2 Aug 24, Dennis and myself and a few of the guys from Ibba Diocese went to St Mary’s Primary School in nearby Naakuri on a visit to see students and their school leadership team. We had a truly amazing welcome and were shown around the school by the Principal Samson and the local minister Rev Josephat. Dennis spoke to the children about the love and presence of the Lord, and we brought a football and some skipping ropes for the children in the school - they were over the moon.

Football is massive in South Sudan, and even Bishop Wilson is a big fan of Chelsea. We have been enjoying a few kickabouts with the local young people of the parish during our downtime. Let’s just say it was very enjoyable until I near face-planted into a hedge going after the ball! I heard a few laughs behind me, but I'm sure it wasn’t aimed at me lol (my footballing days were over before they began). As a big Newcastle United Football fan, we all took a picture with our teams on show. I’m glad Dennis took the picture as he didn’t wear his Liverpool FC jersey ( big rivals of my team...). Even though we come from different countries and cultures, football is a thing that unites us all. Seeing the children with a football and the smiles and laughter on their faces, gave us a real lift.

Dennis and I also visited a teak plantation which the Bishop is promoting to help raise much needed funds for the diocese.

Stephen has been making brilliant progress at the VTC with the welding training as the students are catching on very quickly.

Thank you for taking time to read this blog.

Yours faithfully,

Niall