Journey to the Central African Republic

by Christ the King Church member, Carolyn Jacobs

After several days of travel--at least 18 hours by plane and 18 hours in a four-wheel drive vehicle, our companion synod group pulled into the Lutheran compound in Bouar, Central African Republic (CAR). Women in colorful dress were standing by to welcome us, along with President Golike (counterpart of ELCA Bishop Mark Hanson) and other church leaders. They could scarcely believe that we had actually and finally come so far. We were two from Houston, four from North Dakota, plus the ELCA representative for West and Central Africa.

We were not the only ones arriving in Bouar that day and the next. Women from Lutheran congregations all over CAR arrived for the long awaited dedication of the Women’s Center, and the FCC (Lutheran women) biennial conference starting the following day. Walking long distances, standing in the backs of trucks, by whatever means they could manage, they came, 350 strong, in spite of insecurity in parts of the country. Men came also—pastors, husbands, local officials, even a government minister arrived for the dedication. Held on the morning of February 20 in the outdoor courtyard of the Center, it was a joyful time. Rhythm, singing, and dancing, smiles, laughter, prayers, speeches, blessing of the rooms, ribbon cutting—all were part of this great event. Many people wore dresses, skirts or shirts made from Lutheran cloth—African fabric imprinted with the Luther Rose.

Lunch was served—stewed beef, goat, and chicken, manioc and cassava (different versions of the same plant), rice, and yams. Water, soft drinks, and even a bit of wine and beer were offered. Then in the afternoon, the renovated church (formerly a warehouse) was dedicated, in a service including baptisms and communion. The next morning, we attended the opening session of the Women’s Conference and heard a Bible study given by President Golike.

During the rest of our stay, we met with President Golike and his staff, then, successively, with the leaders of many of the ministries of the Lutheran Church of CAR. They told of their successes and challenges in a difficult environment, where just getting from one village to the next can be problematic because of lack of transportation and security concerns. We visited village schools and water development projects, a government hospital, as well as the Lutheran Bible School and School of Theology in Baboua.

On Sunday, February 24, Pastor Steve Cauley of Advent, Houston, preached in a sweltering church in Baboua. Carolyn Jacobs translated into French, while the local pastor translated into Gbaya--30 minutes for a 10 minute sermon. Then, Pastor Steve and Carolyn both helped serve communion. The service lasted over two hours, with much singing and dancing.

Come to the Adult Forum May 4 and 11 to hear Carolyn talk about this trip and show slides.

Last updated: 2008-05-07