Isaac Mbabazi went to Zambia on mission with 'Dignity ' in May 2011.... Click here to read his story.

 Mission trip to Zambia - (13^th – 26^th May 2011)

by Isaac Mbabazi

Zambia is one of the African countries I had been dreaming of visiting. There are many reasons for this, one of which is that, while a student at a Seminary in Nairobi, Kenya, about seven years ago, I met a Zambian couple. They were very nice guys. They way they loved their countries and spoke of it made me think that one day I should visit it. This ‘dream came true’ as an opportunity to visit this country came my way in May 2011, thanks to Jon Paul & Judith Witt together with Dignity and its friends.

About two years ago, I had some discussion with Jon about the Dignity ministry in Zambia. I then expressed my willingness to go to Zambia to learn something from what they are doing and how they are doing it. All the arrangements were made for my trip: on the 13^th of May I flew to Lusaka for a short mission trip, and Jon came over to meet me at Lusaka Airport, and which we headed to Mkushi where they live. A very warm welcome by Judith and their three sweets boys was given me. For two weeks, I stayed with the Witts, who provided for all my needs. I enjoyed their company and having lots of good fun. Their kindness, generosity and provision will be remembered for ever.

The main purpose of this trip was to learn some ministry skills in the area of Discipleship. Christianity, it is claimed, is a dominant religion in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC): about 80% of the population are Christians. My own experience as a Congolese is that people in the Congo know the gospel, but this gospel has only a very little impact in their lives; the gospel seems not to have touched some areas of their lives. A Discipleship programme is thus badly needed. About 30 people attended the three-day conference run by Jon and Judith Witt, a conference which took place in a village in the area of Mkushi. On this visit, it became clear to me that despite cultural diversities among Africans, people’s needs remain basically the same. Through this conference and an interaction with some of the conference attendees, I realised that just as the people of the Congo do need encouragement in the areas of hope, self-confidence and trusting others, so too do Zambians. The conference has helped me discover other possible approaches one can use in an attempt to build these qualities in people. The conference has also helped me discover other possible ways of making theology accessible to everyone, regardless of whether they are educated or not. 

I was offered to give two devotions, which I willingly accepted. The first devotion was based on Isa 43:18-21—to do with God doing new things in the midst of his people, and the second on Matt 28:19-20 and 2 Tim 2:2—to do with making disciples who will teach others. The two talks were well received, and people were encouraged in the Lord. Also, together with a Zambian pastor, I led a workshop. It was not hard to see people’s satisfaction about issues covered in this small group, and being encouraged by how they were discussed allowing the participation of every member of the group.  

So, coming to Zambia was very useful. This was learning and giving experience to remember. I hope to be able to start something to help my people when I return to Congo for good after my studies here in Britain. Jon and Judith are doing great work in rural Zambia among the Zambians; they have a clear vision and well defined objectives of their ministry, and the Lord is enabling them achieve this. There is a great need for more people to join in their efforts whether through prayers or action.