by Phil Arbon, CIMS
Training in Uganda and Burundi, encouragement of female leaders and the purchase of new mattresses.
The training of pastors continues in Uganda as CIMS partners, LEMA (Life Edifying Ministries Africa), use a mixture of resources to equip church leaders.
The CIMS/LEMA students gathered in the town of Busia from 28th-30th December 2020 with Pastor Fred Wejuli and the team to unpack the Foundation Course module on the Covenants. Phil Arbon, Scotland, prepared some teaching videos explaining the heart and overall structure of the notes for the teaching team in Uganda and they taught the notes provided by CIMS to the students in Uganda.
We have received good reports from this teaching time and they scheduled the exam for this module for 9th January 2021. The situation in Rwanda is still very restricted so we have not been able to progress CIMS in that location although we are in dialogue with them regarding restarting, but no plans firmed up yet. We have asked the CIMS group in Burundi to consider doing a self teaching module using videos and notes and we are encouraged that they have agreed to try. This will take place on the 23rd-25th February.
From the Students
“As a female pastor I am very encouraged because CIMS allows women to be part of the training. It has encouraged and empowered us.” Pastor Annette
“I thank God for CIMS for encouragement towards widows to train at the school. I also want to thank Comfort International for encouragement to be able to work for ourselves. For me you gave me a sewing machine and food during lockdown.” Pastor Ruth
New Mattresses for Pastors’ Training
In Uganda the student pastors gather with LEMA for week long teaching and training sessions approximately once a quarter. Many come from a significant distance and therefore also sleep and eat at the local churches. Accommodating these students has, in the past, required the hiring of mattresses. Recently Comfort International provided funds to purchase mattresses so that LEMA no longer have to use up resources on renting them each time.
