Yei mission partners speak at Christ Church, Lisburn

Tuesday November 21st 2006

CMS Ireland Mission partners Billy and Jenny Smyth, who work in Connor's link diocese of Yei, Southern Sudan, were the special guests at morning Sunday School at Christ Church Parish, Lisburn.

Following an introduction by the rector the Rev Paul Dundas, the Moira couple gave an interesting powerpoint presentation about their missionary work in Yei.

The Smyths were among the first Mission Partner families to move back into Southern Sudan, in the wake of the difficulties there in recent years.

Based at Yei Vocational Training College, Billy co-ordinates the day-to-day running of the college, which trains local people and returning refugees in basic vocational and life skills.

As well as looking after their two children Abigail and Caleb, Jenny helps train local women in business and craft skills. All courses enable the students to make a living for themselves and their families, making a positive contribution to rebuilding the community after years of war.

Billy and Jenny had an opportunity to meet parishioners over coffee before morning worship at the 11.30am service in the church where they spoke about their faith and the call to serve the Lord in both Northern Uganda and now Yei. They emphasised the importance of the Church being at the heart of the community and spoke about their work at the Vocational Training College.

They asked for the support of the Parish and their prayers for peace in the land, for the education of their young children and for the Church in its mission.