Recently, a team had the opportunity to visit Kajo Keji, South Sudan, and witness firsthand the incredible work God is doing through the local church and ministry leaders. What the team experienced was a powerful reminder that the Gospel is alive and transforming lives across Northeast Africa.
A Thriving Church in Kajo Keji
The church in Kajo Keji is vibrant and thriving in every aspect of ministry.
During Sunday worship, the congregation gathered with joyful expectation. As the message was shared, people from across the county walked the middle aisle of the church to meet with pastors at the altar, responding in repentance and faith and giving their lives to the Lord.
The worship that followed was full of celebration. The congregation danced and sang with the worship team, rejoicing together before the Lord. It was a powerful picture of a church alive in faith and anchored in the truth of God’s Word as pastors faithfully taught and preached so the people could know Him more deeply.
A Team from Shandon Baptist Church
Joining the visit was a team from Shandon Baptist Church in Columbia, South Carolina, led by Empower One board member John Barnes. The group came to encourage local leaders, learn from the ministry taking place in Kajo Keji, and partner with pastors and evangelists in sharing the hope of the Gospel in surrounding villages.
For many on the team, the trip was both inspiring and humbling as they witnessed the faith and perseverance of the South Sudanese church and the ways God continues to move through local leaders and communities.
Growing Leaders at NEATS
Another encouraging highlight was time spent with students from NEATS (Northeast Africa Theological Seminary).
Throughout the week, students spent two days diving deeply into Spiritual Formation curriculum. They explored what it means to meditate on God’s Word and apply Scripture to their own hearts and lives.
The excitement among the students was unmistakable. Many expressed how meaningful it was to learn new ways to engage with Scripture and deepen their personal relationship with the Lord. These students represent the next generation of pastors and leaders who will continue strengthening the Church across Northeast Africa.
The Power of Radio Ministry
The ministry of the local radio station continues to be remarkably effective.
During one broadcast, three testimonies were shared on the air. What happened next was extraordinary. For nearly thirty minutes, listeners began calling in to respond to the Gospel message and give their lives to the Lord.
Call after call came through as people shared how God had met them through the broadcast. Eventually the host had to say, “Okay, we only have time for one more caller.”
It was a powerful reminder that through radio, the Gospel is reaching people far beyond the walls of the church.
Churches Under Mango Trees
One of the most beautiful moments of the trip took place under the shade of mango trees.
As the American team partnered with local pastors and evangelists, they traveled to nearby villages to share the Gospel. People listened, asked questions, and many responded in faith.
Later, those who had heard the message returned to the mango tree where the village church gathers. There, they gave their lives to the Lord and became part of the growing community of believers.
Sometimes a mango tree becomes the meeting place where new life in Christ begins.
A Joy to Witness
Throughout the trip, the team witnessed God moving in powerful ways across Kajo Keji — through vibrant worship, growing leaders, effective radio ministry, and village evangelism.
It was a joy to see the Lord at work and to come alongside what He is already doing through faithful pastors and local believers.
God continues to build His Church in Northeast Africa, and it was a privilege for the team to witness it firsthand.