Ezo and Rhode Island in Companionship

This Weekend: S. Sudanese Bishop Abraham Yel Nhial to visit RI Parishes

2011-10-17T08:25:00.000-07:00

The Rt. Rev. Abraham Yel Nhial, Bishop of the Diocese of Aweil and Abuei in the South Sudan, will be visiting a few Rhode Island Parishes this weekend, October 21-23, 2011.

Bishop Nhial is the author of Lost Boy No More, A True Story of Survival and Salvation with DiAnn Mills.

“As a nine year old child, Abraham found himself orphaned as civil war in his homeland of Sudan ravaged his entire village because they refused to embrace Islam. His journey is one of a perilous walk, along with 35,000 lost boys of Sudan, who fled to Ethiopia. Abraham and others like him made it to the border, but hard times were not over as he endured the refugee camps of Ethiopia. Abraham becomes a lost boy no more when he discovers real salvation through Jesus Christ.” From the back cover: Lost Boy No More A true story of survival and salvation by Abraham Nhial and DiAnn Mills

You are invited to meet and greet him at one of the following gatherings:

Grace Episcopal Church
When: Friday October 21, 2011 6:00pm
Where: 175 Mathewson Street Providence, RI 02903
Description: Come to Meet Bishop Abraham, Reception with light refreshments in Grace Church followed by a brief presentation by Bishop Abraham

St. Mary’s Episcopal Church
When: Saturday October 22, 2011 7:30pm
Where: 325 East Main Road Portsmouth, Rhode Island 02871
Description: Brief Presentation and Conversation with Bishop Abraham

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church
When: Sunday October 23, 2011 9:30 am Holy Eucharist Followed by Educational Forum
Where: 55 Main Street, Wickford, RI 02852
Description: Bishop Abraham will preach at the 9:30 service and offer a brief presentation and the opportunity for conversation at the educational forum.

Ezo Update: Secession seems likely for S. Sudan

2011-01-18T08:21:00.000-08:00

Our companion diocese of Ezo, along with the rest of the Southern Sudan, is in the middle of a historic referendum. January 9th through 15th polls were open for the largely christian and animist Southern Sudanese peoples to vote for their independence from the Islamic northern government in Khartoum.

Votes are still being tallied, but according to the New York times, it is clear that "the referendum on independence last week was transparent and credible and that southern independence was likely." read the full article here.

This is good news for our brothers and sisters in Ezo! The results of the vote will be announced at the end of this month, and the South Sudan would move towards full independence in June, if that be the result. Pray for peace between North and South Sudan throughout the process!

Christmas Greeting from our Companion Diocese of Ezo in the Sudan

2010-12-23T14:20:00.001-08:00

Diocese of Rhode Island,

I wish to extend the Ezo Diocese Christian Community's Christmas greeting to their fellow brothers and sisters in Christ in the Diocese of Rhode Island.

"Now may the God of peace Himself sanctify you (set you apart) completely; continue to unite us altogether, and may your whole spirit, soul, and body be preserved blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. He who calls you is faithful, Who also will do it (1 Thessalonians 5:23-24).

God bless you all,

Levi

Assistant to Bishop John Zawo of Ezo

A Season of Prayer for the Sudan: Advent Meditation 4

2010-12-23T14:04:00.000-08:00

For my brethren and companions' sake I pray for your prosperity. Psalm 122:8

Click here for Advent Meditation 4

As we all await the coming of the Prince of Peace this Advent, our companion diocese of Ezo prepares to vote for the freedom of the Southern Sudan on January 9th, in a potentially volatile referendum. This season, Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori exhorts us to join our voices with the people of the Sudan in prayers for peace.

Each Friday during Advent, The Episcopal Church will provide a new meditation which you can download here on our blog and our Facebook page. You are encouraged to join in prayer at noon (Eastern Standard Time) in the United States, as the people of Sudan pray at six o’clock in the evening. Our simultaneous prayers will join the hope of God for a world filled with peace. Click here for Meditation 4.

Thank you for your continued support of our brothers and sisters in Ezo. For more information about our Companion Diocese Relationship with Ezo click here.

A Season of Prayer for the Sudan; advent Meditation 3

2010-12-17T09:03:00.000-08:00

For my brethren and companions' sake I pray for your prosperity. Psalm 122:8

Click here for Advent Meditation 3

As we all await the coming of the Prince of Peace this Advent, our companion diocese of Ezo prepares to vote for the freedom of the Southern Sudan on January 9th, in a potentially volatile referendum. This season, Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori exhorts us to join our voices with the people of the Sudan in prayers for peace.

Each Friday during Advent, The Episcopal Church will provide a new meditation which you can download here on our blog and our Facebook page. You are encouraged to join in prayer at noon (Eastern Standard Time) in the United States, as the people of Sudan pray at six o’clock in the evening. Our simultaneous prayers will join the hope of God for a world filled with peace. Click here for Meditation 3

Thank you for your continued support of our brothers and sisters in Ezo. For more information about our Companion Diocese Relationship with Ezo click here.

Season of Prayer for the Sudan Meditation 2

2010-12-10T06:39:00.000-08:00

For my brethren and companions' sake I pray for your prosperity. Psalm 122:8

Click here for Advent Meditation 2

As we all await the coming of the Prince of Peace this Advent, our companion diocese of Ezo prepares to vote for the freedom of the Southern Sudan on January 9th, in a potentially volatile referendum. This season, Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori exhorts us to join our voices with the people of the Sudan in prayers for peace.

Each Friday during Advent, The Episcopal Church will provide a new meditation which you can download here on our blog and our Facebook page. You are encouraged to join in prayer at noon (Eastern Standard Time) in the United States, as the people of Sudan pray at six o’clock in the evening. Our simultaneous prayers will join the hope of God for a world filled with peace. Click here for Meditation 2

Thank you for your continued support of our brothers and sisters in Ezo. For more information about our Companion Diocese Relationship with Ezo click here.

Season of Prayer for the Sudan, Advent Meditation 1

2010-12-02T12:48:00.001-08:00

For my brethren and companions' sake

I pray for your prosperity. Psalm 122:8

(Video: Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts-Schori's Sudan update)

Here in the Diocese of Rhode Island we have entered into a companion relationship with Ezo in the Southern Sudan. As we all await the coming of the Prince of Peace this Advent, our companions in Ezo prepare to vote for their freedom on January 9th, in a potentially volatile referendum. This season, Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori exhorts us to join our voices with the people of the Sudan in prayers for peace.

Many of you met Bishop Zawo of Ezo when he came to RI in November of 2009. Many of you saw the slideshow of our own Bishop Wolf 's visit there in December 2008, or bought a 2011 Ezo Calendar to help support projects there (You can learn how to buy one here! ). Now there is something you can do at home to help.

Each Friday during Advent, The Episcopal Church will provide a new meditation which you can download here on our blog and our Facebook page. You are encouraged to join in prayer at noon (Eastern Standard Time) in the United States, as the people of Sudan pray at six o’clock in the evening. Our simultaneous prayers will join the Hope of God for a world filled with peace. Click here for Meditation 1

Thank you for your continued support of our brothers and sisters in Ezo.

Calendar Sale to Benefit our Companion Diocese of Ezo, Southern Sudan

2010-10-15T12:09:00.000-07:00

Calendars featuring our companion diocese of Ezo in the Southern Sudan will be ready for sale, starting at our Diocesan Convention on October 23rd!

These calendars show pictures of our brothers and sisters in Ezo, and the progress of the projects we've helped fund as they make difference in daily life there. The funds raised from the sale of these calendars will support our further work in partnership with Ezo. All current and future projects are approved and kept under close review by Bishop Wolf of RI and Bishop John Zawo of Ezo, as well as diocesan leaders in both places.

Come to convention prepared to purchase one or more calendars for your use, or for distribution in your own parish. Can't come to Convention? Email maryann@episcopalri.org to find out how to get a few calendars and keep an eye out for them at other diocesan gatherings now through January.

Suggested donation is $15.00. Calendars may be purchased with a cash donation or a check made payable to: The Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island, 275 North Main Street, Providence, Rhode Island 02903

ENS Article: Presiding bishop calls for 'A Season of Prayer for Sudan'

2010-09-21T06:43:00.001-07:00

By Matthew Davies for Episcopal News Service (ENS) September 15, 2010

[Episcopal News Service] Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori is calling on Episcopalians to observe "A Season of Prayer for Sudan" as the war-torn African nation prepares for a critical referendum to determine its future.

Acknowledging Sudan's fragile state following decades of civil war, Jefferts Schori said in her Sept. 15 letter that the Episcopal Church can stand in solidarity "with our brothers and sisters in Sudan as we enter a season of preparation by prayer, study, and action."...

Read the full article here

Ezo Update: A Letter From Levi

2010-08-10T13:12:00.000-07:00

Bishop Wolf in Ezo with Levi

The Following update was sent to Tom Bair, Chair of the Companion Diocesese Committee for Ezo, From Levi Ahmed, Assistant to Bishop John Zawo of Ezo.

Tom,
Greetings to you in Jesus name and hoping that you are doing well over there. I just arrived last evenning in Kampala from Ezo. Greetings from Bishop John, Nancy and the entire Christian community to the Christians of RI. I have spent my holidays [from college in Uganda] with Bishop at home in Ezo. Every one is fine.

I have been not able to communicate with you due to lack of internet in Ezo. And it has been not easy for me to be traveling to Yambio which is 100 miles to access internet due to frequent attacks on vehicles on the way by the LRA.

...

However, i have attached some photograph of events in Ezo Diocese [visit our page on facebook to see more of these photos].

Concerning the goat project, the work has gone on very well but only due to the insecurity it has made some part of the work to delay a bit. That is why [in the photos] you are not see all the 50 goats in the fence. 20 have been bought and 30 have been ordered from Banda in Congo, because it is now very hard and expensive to buy goats in Western Equatoria because most of the goats were taken by the LRA when they used to attack local in those areas. Now we believe that only this project will be the only one where most of the people in Western Equatoria will get goats again for rearing.

I am going to compile the whole information pertaining the project and send to you including the receipts I have with me.

I left Ezo on Friday to Yambio where i arrived in Yambio at five, and the vehicle which came after us was burnt by the LRA killing three people who were in that car. [It happened] 12 mlies from Nzara and we past that area at 4:00 pm, a car which arrived at that place at 5:00 pm was the one which the LRA burnt and the following morning they again appeared in the same area killing another three people, one man and two women. The humanitarian situation in Ezo remains the same because since 2008 up [to] now people have not gone [home] to their places.[See Levi's update from November 6, 2009 for more info on this]
[You can] hope to see more information from me pertaining the goat project soon.
...

Levi.

The Women of Ezo have Received Their Solar Lamps!

2010-06-25T12:53:00.000-07:00

The RI & Ezo Companion Diocese Committee has teamed up with an organization called Solar Sister to bring solar lamps to the Women's Union in the Diocese of Ezo. Word has just been received that the lamps have arrived! Visit Solar Sister's Facebook Page to see photos of the Mother's Union in Ezo, who will be selling these Solar lanterns to provide income for their families and a clean, healthy,inexpensive alternative to kerosene lamps to light their villages!

Let There Be Light; Solar Sister in the Diocese of Ezo

2010-05-13T09:15:00.000-07:00

By Katherine Lucey

There are 1.6 billion people on the planet who don’t have access to reliable electricity. That’s one quarter of the world’s population. 70% are women and girls living in developing countries.

They rely on kerosene lanterns and candles for light. They spend hours each day collecting wood to burn for cooking and heat. They spend up to 30% of their family income on energy that is insufficient, hazardous and unhealthy. Unhealthy for people and unhealthy for the planet.

Lack of access to electricity is both a cause and an effect of unremitting poverty. Our companion Diocese of Ezo in the Sudan suffers from acute energy poverty and its devastating consequences, but the Diocese of Rhode Island is working with a social enterprise called Solar Sister to bring light, hope and opportunity to the people of Ezo.

Solar Sister provides women with training and support to create solar micro-businesses, providing much needed household income for the women, and much needed light for their communities.

The most important step to ending poverty is to create employment and income opportunities. Solar Sister does just that by empowering women. The women sell solar lanterns which replace the kerosene lanterns and candles, providing clean, dependable solar light in homes, schools and clinics. Solar light enhances education, improves health and safety and provides economic opportunity, enabling the women to lift themselves, their families and their communities out of poverty.

The women form a by-women, to-women distribution network that is strengthened by women’s natural circles of family, friends and community. This direct-sales network brings the solar technology right to the women’s doorstep and provides income generation opportunities for the women.

In April, the Diocese of Rhode Island is bringing the Solar Sister program to Ezo. Women will be chosen by the Ezo Mother's Union on the basis of their entrepreneurship potential and economic need to become "Solar Sisters". These women will receive a "business in a box" of solar lanterns that bring clean, affordable light to their community. The Ezo program will be the first Solar Sister program in war-torn Sudan, where light is an important element of safety as well as opportunity.

Keep an eye out in future issues of RISEN Magazine for updates about Ezo and the Solar Sister program there. You can also visit http://www.solarsister.org/ for current updates or just to learn more about the organization.

Solar Sister was founded by Katherine Lucey, the wife of The Rev. David Lucey, who is the Rector of St. Michaels Episcopal Church in Bristol, RI.

To learn more about what you can do for our companions in Ezo, or to get involved with our Companion Diocese Committee, please email Mary Ann Kolakowski, our Director of Christian Formation, at maryann@episcopalri.org

Advocacy, partnerships bolstered as Sudan approaches general elections

2010-04-15T09:25:00.000-07:00

By Matthew Davies, April 09, 2010

[Episcopal News Service] As Sudan heads to the polls this weekend to hold its first democratic elections in 24 years, Episcopalians in the U.S. have been ramping up advocacy and raising awareness of the issues that confront Africa's largest and most war-torn nation amid fears that it could plunge back into civil war.

Richard Parkins and Russ Randle, two leading Episcopal Church advocates for Sudan, have continued to pursue the U.S. Congress and Obama administration pressing them to make the African country's peace agreement a priority and to ensure that fair elections are conducted... read more

SUDANESE CHURCH LEADERS' FORUM: A Vision for a Peaceful Sudan

2010-03-26T13:32:00.000-07:00

23-26 March 2010 Juba, Southern Sudan

Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God (Micah 6:8)

More than 60 Sudanese Church leaders from 14 churches throughout Sudan gathered in Juba with their international partners from 23-26 March 2010 to review the current situation in Sudan and to prepare for the future. Church leaders from Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, Rwanda and South Africa and partners from the international community were present in solidarity with the Church and people of Sudan. Representatives of the Muslim community attended part of the meeting.

This is a historic period in the history of Sudan. After the referendum in 2011 Sudan will never be the same again, whether it remains united or becomes two countries. Time is short and urgent reflection and action are needed to ensure a peaceful future. This is Sudan’s Kairos Moment. There is no time to waste.

The Sudanese Church is concerned at increasing violence within the south and Darfur, at delays in implementing the CPA, and at the lack of an international political consensus on the next steps. The Church cares about the freedom, dignity and human rights of all the people of Sudan, whether in the north or the south, and encourages a spirit of good neighbourliness and cooperation.

The Sudanese Church:

Is concerned that popular consultation does not meet the aspirations of the people of Southern Kordofan and Blue Nile. The issue must be put at the top of all stakeholders’ agendas as a matter of priority. Their special situation requires special status and a new way of looking at them. The Church fears that failure to address the aspirations of the people of these two states could derail any peaceful post-2011 transition.
Calls upon all stakeholders to ensure that the forthcoming elections in April 2010 are peaceful, free and fair. This is an opportunity for the Sudanese to exercise their democratic rights within the framework of the CPA. Following the elections, all parties must accept the results. If there are grievances and disputes, these must be solved by legal means, not by violence.
Calls for an end to violence between ethnic groups and political factions within southern Sudan, and other conflicts within Sudan. In particular the Church calls on political leaders to play a constructive role in healing and reconciliation.
Calls for the full and peaceful implementation of the CPA, particularly the timely, free and fair referendums for the south and Abyei and popular consultations for Blue Nile and Southern Kordofan.
Calls for immediate and ongoing discussions about the post-referendum transition, especially if secession is chosen by the south and Abyei. Good relations between north and south are essential. The position of the Church in northern Sudan is of particular concern. The Church calls for engagement with the concerns of local communities and civil society about both northerners in the south and southerners in the north.
Calls on the international community to continue its commitment to rehabilitation and reconstruction.

The Sudanese Church:

Has begun a new process of re-engagement with the burning issues of the day, building on its experience and credibility gained during the previous war. The Church Leaders' Forum is the first step in this ongoing process.
In response to a request from the Sudanese Church, the All Africa Conference of Churches and the World Council of Churches have jointly appointed an Ecumenical Special Envoy to Sudan to accompany the process.
Invites all Church-related bodies, such as evangelical alliances, to participate in and support this process.

The Sudanese Church undertakes:

To roll out a new People to People Process of dialogue to counter internal conflicts in the south, the marginalised areas and other parts of Sudan.
To set up a task force to analyse the situation in Sudan and advise the Church how to respond quickly to events.
To engage with national, regional and international bodies, including the Governments of National Unity and Southern Sudan, neighbouring governments and churches, AU, IGAD, Arab League, EU, UN, and key governments such as USA, UK and Norway, for lobby and advocacy to explain the feelings of southerners and people from the marginalised areas and their likely reaction to events, and provide guidance on what to do.
To inform and work with these international and regional partners on the position of the Church in northern Sudan, and to empower the Church in the north to sustain itself during the post-referendum transition period.
To engage with all stakeholders within Sudan, including traditional authorities, parties, civil society, and other faiths.
To increase its role in civic education, awareness raising and monitoring on elections, referendums and popular consultations.

The Sudanese Church commits itself to speak the truth fearlessly, and to continue its Gospel-led mission to give a voice to the voiceless, the poor and the marginalised, and addressing issues of national concern.

Signed by the Church Leaders from Sudan Council of Churches member Churches and non-member Churches.

26 March 2010

Roman Catholic Church
Episcopal Church of Sudan
Presbyterian Church of Sudan
Sudan Presbyterian Evangelical Church Sudan
Sudan Interior Church
Africa Inland Church
Orthodox Church
Greek Orthodox Church
Sudan Pentecostal Church
Lutheran Church of Sudan
Sudan Brethren Church
Baptist Church of Sudan

Rt Rev Bishop Ezekiel Kondo
Chair, SCC

Rev Ramadan Chan

Secretary General, SCC

Meningitis Outbreak in Ezo

2010-01-15T11:58:00.000-08:00

Friends,

This week we received an email from Levi, the person with whom we have regular contact for messages, mail and planning with our brothers and sisters in Ezo. It was a difficult email to read, because he told us of a medical crisis and illness in the area which is killing and frightening many people. Our hearts are deeply saddened by this news. In response to this email, Tom Bair, co-chair of the Companion Diocese Committee quickly contacted Janette O’Neill from Episcopal Relief and Development. This is what he informed Committee Members after that conversation.

Dear Fellow Committee Members

I spoke today to Janette O'Neill of ERD. They are aware of the crisis medical situation in Ezo. Her sources have told her that the medical condition that is causing these deaths is meningitis. She explains that there is nothing that anyone can do, save flying to Ezo with bales of penicillin.

I am afraid that there is little that we can offer beyond prayer on this one.

I have communicated to Levi our concern and that we are doing what we can. I will inform him also that Janette O'Neill is aware of the situation.

Thanks
Tom Bair

Please pray for our brothers and sisters in Ezo.
-The Companion Diocese Committee

Projo article on Bishop John's visit

2009-12-09T12:26:00.000-08:00

Providence Journal Staff writer Richard Dujardin wrote an article for the December 5th issue, about Bishop John's visit to RI. It was titled "In R.I., bishop tells of Ugandan guerillas’ reign of terror in Southern Sudan" and you can read the full story as well as leave your comments here:

http://www.projo.com/news/content/sudan_bishop_12-05-09_USGMJ60_v8.398ba38.html

CORRECTION NOTE: Mr. Dujardin interviewed Bishop Zawo on the fourth day of his LAST week here, not his only week here. Bishop Zawo was actually in RI from November 8th until December 7th 2009, nearly one month.

Living Church Magazine on Bishop Zawo's visit to S. Stephen's, Providence

2009-12-08T06:44:00.000-08:00

Bishop John Zawo of the Diocese of Ezo in Southern Sudan spoke at a gathering organized by the Episcopal Campus Ministry at S. Stephen's on Tuesday 17 November. Here is Phoebe Pettingell's account of the event in The Living Church Magazine.

Updated Calendar for Bishop John's Visit

2009-11-16T13:56:00.000-08:00

Here is an updated Calendar of events for Bishop John's Visit. The events we have currently scheduled are listed below. Check back often and keep an eye on your inbox for a special edition of erisen as more dates are solidified

Clergy Luncheon and Conversation with Bishop John Zawo
When: Tuesday November 17th, 2009 11:00am to 1:00pm
Where: Church of the Redeemer 655 Hope Street RI 02906
Description: Clergy are invited for conversation and lunch with our visitor, Bishop John Zawo, Diocese of Ezo, Sudan Please RSVP
Contact: Mary Ann Kolakowski 401 274-4500 ext. 247 maryann@episcopalri.org

Episcopal Chaplaincy Discussion with Bishop John
When: Tuesday, November 17, 2009 6:00pm
Where: St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 114 George Street Providence, RI
Description: Episcopal Campus Ministry is pleased to welcome The Rt. Rev. John Zawo, Anglican Bishop in the Diocese of Ezo in the Sudan, for a discussion of current events and experiences living and worshipping amidst the war and violence of Ezo. All are welcome. (Please note that free parking is available after 5 pm at the Brown University parking lot at the corner of George and Hope Streets.)
Contact: curate@sstephens.necoxmail.com

Holy Eucharist at Christ Church in Lonsdale
When: 10:30am Sunday November 29, 2009
Where: Christ Church Lincoln, 1643 Lonsdale Ave. Lincoln, RI
Description: Holy Eucharist with Bp. John as Preacher followed by coffee hour and conversation. All are welcome.
Contact: info@christchurchlincoln.org

Taize Prayer
When: Sunday Nov. 29, 2009 5:00pm
Where: St. Paul's Episcopl Church 50 Park Place Pawtucket
Description: Join us and our guest Bishop John Zawo, the Diocese of Ezo; for Taize Prayer on the First Sunday of Advent Silence...Darkness... Candles...Chant... A simple reception, and the opportunity to meet Bishop John will follow prayer. All are welcome.
Contact: St. Paul's Epscopal Church 728-4300. stpaulsmychurch1@aol.com

Bishop John to speak NOV 17th at S. Stephen's Episcopal Chaplaincy Event

2009-11-16T13:34:00.000-08:00

Episcopal Campus Ministry is pleased to welcome The Rt. Rev. John Zawo, Anglican Bishop of Ezo in the Sudan

When: 6 pm on Tuesday, Nov 17th

Where: St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church 114 George Street, Providence

(free parking is available after 5 pm at the Brown University parking lot at the corner of George and Hope Streets.)

Bishop John Zawo is the leader of Anglican Christians in the region around the town of Ezo in the southern Sudan. Nearly a year ago our own Bishop Wolf travelled to Ezo to set up a "companion relationship" of mutual aid and support with the war-torn Diocese of Ezo, and at our Diocesan Convention this year the relationship was ratified, our continued support assured. Bishop John is now here to visit the Episcopal Diocese of Rhode Island, to meet us and speak with us. He has seen first-hand the current violence in the southern Sudan, and we are honored at the chance to hear some of his experiences and to to help raise awareness of this ongoing conflict.

Ezo is in an area of ongoing political conflict, on the border of the Central African Republic and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While there has been much attention paid to the violence in the Darfur region of the Sudan, it is important not forget the ongoing conflict in the southern Sudan, which has been racked by civil war since 1983 with almost 2 million people killed and over 4 million people displaced from their homes. The 26 year old war produced a ‘lost generation’ of children who have never known basic health care or educational opportunities. Despite the Comprehensive Peace Agreement signed in 2005, violence continues in the southern Sudan. Over the past several years, in addition to the internal political conflict, Ezo has been the victim of continual violence from Ugandan Guerrilas referred to as the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA), which is notorious for its sex trafficking of young girls and its use of brutaly violent child soldiers.

Please join us at 6 pm on Tuesday, November 17th at St. Stephen’s Church at 114 George Street for this important discussion.

Bishop John Zawo's Arrival, and a Schedule of Events

2009-11-06T13:03:00.000-08:00

Good News! Bishop John Zawo finally has his visa in hand, after a month or so spent waiting in kampala nearly 400 miles from home. He will be with us from November 8th 2009 until December 7th 2009, and there will be many opportunities for you to attend events and meet him!

The events we have currently scheduled are listed below. check back often and keep an eye on your inbox for a special edition of erisen as more dates are solidified

Clergy Luncheon and Conversation with Bishop John Zawo

When: Tuesday November 17th, 2009 11:00am to 1:00pm
Where: Church of the Redeemer 655 Hope Street RI 02906
Description: Clergy are invited for conversation and lunch with our visitor, Bishop John Zawo, Diocese of Ezo, Sudan Please RSVP
Contact: Mary Ann Kolakowski 401 274-4500 ext. 247 maryann@episcopalri.org
Episcopal Chaplaincy Discussion with Bishop John

When: Tuesday, November 17, 2009 6:00pm
Where: St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 114 George Street Providence, RI
Description: Episcopal Campus Ministry is pleased to welcome The Rt. Rev. John Zawo, Anglican Bishop in the Diocese of Ezo in the Sudan, for a discussion of current events and experiences living and worshipping amidst the war and violence of Ezo. All are welcome.
(Please note that free parking is available after 5 pm at the Brown University parking lot at the corner of George and Hope Streets.)
Contact: curate@sstephens.necoxmail.com

Holy Eucharist at Christ Church in Lonsdale
When: 10:30am Sunday November 29, 2009
Where: Christ Church Lincoln, 1643 Lonsdale Ave. Lincoln, RI
Description: Holy Eucharist with Bp. John as Preacher followed by coffee hour and conversation. All are welcome.
Contact: info@christchurchlincoln.org

Taize Prayer
When: Sunday Nov. 29, 2009 5:00pm
Where: St. Paul's Episcopl Church 50 Park Place Pawtucket
Description: Join us and our guest Bishop John Zawo, the Diocese of Ezo; for Taize Prayer on the First Sunday of Advent Silence...Darkness... Candles...Chant... A simple reception, and the opportunity to meet Bishop John will follow prayer. All are welcome.
Contact: St. Paul's Epscopal Church 728-4300. All are welcome.
stpaulsmychurch1@aol.com

A Statement on the LRA Attacks in Ezo, From Bishop John's Assistant Levi

2009-11-06T09:38:00.000-08:00

The letter below, sent in august by Bishop John Zawo's assistant Levi (pictured at left with Bishop Wolf in December of 2008), describes the current situation in the Diocese of Ezo, where attacks of Ugandan guerrillas called the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) run rampant. These are the conditions our companions in that Diocese must worship and minister under every day. Keep this letter and the people of Ezo in mind, as Bishop John Zawo travels to our own Diocese to spend a month in our comparably safe churches and communities.

[August 2009] I am hereby submitting this emergency need for help to people in Ezo. Just in the last months there have been about 13 attacks on people in Ezo. People around Ezo have been squeezed to Ezo town but last week on August 12 and 13 2009 Ezo town was seriously attacked at night by a very big groups of LRA. In which three people died on spot including one of our Layreader and those who have been abducted, their number can not be established now because many people are still missing.

This attacks occurred within Ezo town where the 17 thousand internal displaced persons and refugees from Congo have been settled. Making it more worse the only hospital in Ezo town was targeted by the LRA and all the medicines and medical equipments were all taken and the remain one they could not carry were all burnt down. Three of the medical personnel’s were also taken.

During these attacks many people lost their properties more especially food items as it was the most targeted items by the LRA. The situation on the ground is terrible and need immediate attention.
The church itself have lost 2 of its Archdeanries, four Deanries and 12 parishes and four of our pastors and lay readers have been killed so far. So as church we are unable to react to people needs so we need help more especially medicine and food items so that we can be in position to react to people's needs.
Ezo has been cut off from Tambura districts which is 54 miles from Ezo and Yambio which is 100 miles from Ezo. All the movement on the way has to be by the help of military help. Now that most of those who can afford to travel have now run to those two districts through the help of military escort. But those who can not afford to travel more especially the old one are still in Ezo waiting only for when they will be killed because the LRA attacks has just become a routine act.
So as a church we can not run way leaving our Christians behind in such situation. So we need your help and all those who can be in position to respond on this serious situation.

Yours
Levi Ahamed Bona
Diocesan Development Officer
ECS Diocese of Ezo.

Province of Sudan Elects Seven New Bishops

2009-10-27T06:50:00.000-07:00

Posted On : October 26, 2009 3:44 PM
By The Anglican Church News Service: http://www.anglicancommunion.org/acns/news.cfm/2009/10/26/ACNS4663

The Province of the Episcopal Church of the Sudan elected seven new bishops in All Saints' Cathedral, Juba on Saturday 24th October 2009.

Five of the seven are to be the first bishops of newly created dioceses, whilst two are replacing bishops who have retired this year from existing dioceses.

The new dioceses that have gained their first bishops-elect are Terekeka, Pacong, Akot, Twic East and Nzara. Those existing dioceses that elected new bishops are Wau and Rejaf.

The election was presided over with his usual professionalism by Provincial Chancellor Hon. Majok Mading Majok, who first confirmed as bishops-elect those candidates from dioceses where they had been the single episcopal nominee. In three of these dioceses, the single candidates are already assistant bishops. These were:

The Diocese of Terekeka: Rt Revd Micah Leila Dawidi The Diocese of Pacong: Rt Revd Joseph Maker Atot The Diocese of Akot: Rt Revd Isaac Dhieu Ater The Diocese of Nzara: Revd Samuel Enosa Peni

Chancellor Majok then continued with the election of bishops for the contested dioceses of Wau, Rejaf and Twic East, which was conducted by secret ballot, the successful candidate requiring a simple majority for victory.

The Diocese of Wau was contested between Revd Martin Maker, Revd Moses Deng Bol and Revd Angelo Aguer Akue. In his brief hust, Revd Angelo stepped down, resulting in a contest between Revd Martin and Revd Moses.

The Electoral College elected Revd Moses Deng Bol as the Bishop-Elect of Wau by 53 votes to 32 out of 86, or 62% of the vote.

The Diocese of Rejaf was contested between Revd Canon Enock Tombe Stephen and Revd Canon Thomas Kedini Legge. The Electoral College elected Revd Enock Tombe as the Bishop-Elect of Rejaf by 66 votes to 21 out of 87, or 76% of the vote.
The Diocese of Twic East was contested between Rt Revd Ezekiel Diing Ajang, Revd Mark Atem and Revd Lt. Col. Elijah Biar Kuek. Revd Elijah stepped down during his hust saying that he wanted to continue to devote himself to his army chaplaincy work, resulting in a contest between Bishop Ezekiel and Revd Mark. The Electoral College elected Rt Revd Ezekiel Diing as the Bishop-Elect of Twic East by 64 votes to 21 out of 85, or 75% of the vote.

The various consecrations and enthronements will take place in the respective dioceses over the next few months, beginning in Terekeka next Sunday 1st November, All Saints' Day. The Archbishop closed in prayer, asking that these new leaders will further unite and develop the Episcopal Church of the Sudan.

An Update on Bishop John's Visit

2009-10-21T11:22:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting until the absolute last minute to let you know, that at this point in time, It is unlikely that Bishop Zawo’s visa will be granted in time for him to be with us this weekend at our Diocesan Convention. The good news is however, that plans are still moving forward and he has an appointment at the embassy on October 29th for the granting of his visa. Bishop Wolf, Liz Crawley and Tom have worked tirelessly, even requesting assistance from Senator Reed, and Senator Kennedy to expedite this process for Bishop John. Bishop Wolf has sent an additional letter today outlining the new purpose of his visit to our Diocese, now that it will be too late to attend Convention. Now, we are hoping that he may be with us some time in early to mid November. There is no way to know for sure, but as soon as we have the details, I will let you all know.

Please continue to pray, and email MaryAnn Kolakowski if you would like to be involved with the further planning of Bishop John's Visit.

-Mary Ann

Please Pray for Bishop John Zawo's Travel to RI

2009-10-07T14:23:00.000-07:00

As we get ready for the gift and privilege of being able to plan for and meet in Diocesan Convention, we are reminded of the predictability of our life together, of the many opportunities we have to pray, to study, debate and make decisions about the future of Christ’s Church( as we discern it) in this place and time.
Pause for a minute with us… and wonder what it might be like for our brothers and sisters in Ezo, rooted in the same faith and life in Christ. For us, the comforts of our homes, offices and church buildings offer us places from which to worship, plan, debate via email, and continue the work we value and feel called to do. We wonder what it is like to live and minister in a place not yet equipped with the internet. A place visited periodically, and all too often by violent, militant soldiers who want the little food and commodities we have. Soldiers, who scare, scatter and kill; ravage our homes and villages. We wonder what it might be like to cling to our faith and life in Christ together for our very survival. We wonder what it might be like to worship in gratefulness as Christ’s church in Ezo, and we await our visit from their Bishop, John Zawo. We are grateful that he has accepted Bishop Wolf’s invitation to be with us at this Diocesan Convention.
Please pray with us for Bishop John Zawo, Bishop of the Diocese of Ezo, Sudan, and his family. We pray for his safety, and for the safety of the people of his Diocese, and for the efficiency of the paperwork and details necessary for his travel to us.

-The Companion Diocese Committee

Interfaith Clergy Letter on Sudan Peace Delivered to White House

2009-10-05T06:25:00.000-07:00

Episcopal, other faith leaders participate in October 2 meeting
By ENS staff

[Episcopal News Service] Bishop Suffragan David Jones of the Episcopal Diocese of Virginia and Alexander Baumgarten, interim director of government relations for the Episcopal Church, joined faith leaders from Christian, Muslim, and Jewish traditions for a meeting at the White House October 2 to present a copy of a letter on comprehensive peace in the Sudan signed by more than 1,400 clergy from across the United States.

The letter, organized by the Sudan Interfaith Working Group, of which the Episcopal Church is a member, urges President Barack Obama to prioritize "efforts that will bring peace to millions that live in violence and fear while lacking the basic services essential for survival."

Noting that the United States government played a leadership role in bringing about Sudan's 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the northern government and southern rebel leaders, the letter says that "it is clear that peace between the north and south remains extremely fragile, and fears of renewed civil war are on the rise."

Full story: http://www.episcopalchurch.org/79901_115254_ENG_HTM.htm

Bicycles for Ezo!

2009-09-22T12:51:00.000-07:00

There are smiles on both sides of the ocean celebrating the purchase of 16 bicycles for the Clergy of the Diocese of Ezo! Bishop John Zawo (Diocese of Ezo) and the clergy of Ezo identified bicycles as a pressing need in discussions of their goals and priorities with Bishop Wolf.

Until now the Clergy of Ezo have had to walk ten miles or more to visit parishioners in need, or to meet with their Bishop. The bicycles will greatly enable the ministry of these devoted men, and we hope they will offer some relief to Clergy families as well. Since the Clergy in Ezo recieve no compensation for their service it has been difficult for them to help keep their families fed while spending so much time in transit.

The money for the bicycles was raised through the "Mango Tree" project started by Bishop Wolf and Tom Bair when they returned home from their trip to Ezo in Southern Sudan last December. After being collected, the money was wired to the people of the Diocese of Ezo, for them to purchase the Chinese bicycles that are common in their area and have plenty of replacement parts available. Thanks to all who have contributed!

If you would like to learn more about the "Mango tree" project or to make a contribution, email liz@episcopalri.org