Rebels Turning to Christ

Our partnership with Pr. James Opolot in Kotido, northeast Uganda, started when James joined our network for leaders in Africa. He took part in the virtual teachings and prayer times with other leaders from around the continent, and in time a deeper friendship grew along with ways we could partner with him for greater impact. Then James began telling us what God was doing in Kotido.

The Warriors

There was a gang in the area where James was seeking to plant churches, and they specialized in stealing other people’s cattle. They were known as the “Warriors”.

James shared the Gospel with them, and the leader of the cattle raiding gang surrendered his life to Jesus. Then his father-in-law, who was the witchdoctor for the gang, surrendered to Jesus as well.

James went with them to share the Gospel with their family, and a church was planted right in the heart of this community.

Many other members of the cattle raiding gang started coming to Christ and were baptized.

Bibles, and a way to earn a living

Then James wrote to us with two needs.

“There is nothing so touching like rebels turning to Christ. There’s still need for more Bibles as many Warriors and their wives are coming to Jesus Christ. There is also a need to help them acquire skills for livelihood.”

Pr. James Opolot, Kotido, Uganda

What a joy it was to be a part of helping these new-creation men receive Bibles. When the former leader of the gang received his Bible, he gave praise to God and shared his testimony in front of everyone.

The second need took longer. As our team prayed about helping these men gain the skills needed to earn an honest living, two local pastors with woodworking expertise agreed to disciple the newly converted cattle raiders while teaching them carpentry skills. DNI was able to supply the tools and support needed to launch a Christ-centered Woodworking Training Center. For the cost of one full-time student at a local technical school, more than 10 students could begin training.

“Thank you so much for the tools! We are so excited as a team, and we have seen that God loves us so much through this gift! This will help our children to stop stealing. We are going to train the former gang members in carpentry so they can support their families!”

Pastor Emmanuel, one of the leaders assisting with the project

Where it stands today

The woodworking center is active and thriving. The men are growing in their faith, learning valuable skills, and producing products that are being sold within the community for income. James continues to share the Gospel and plant churches wherever God sends him.

“Recently nearly 100 people were baptized in Kotido by our disciplers. We give God praise for the harvest!”

James Opolot

Through simple acts of obedience, God is transforming lives, strengthening families, and making Himself known to this community.