2018 ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT
For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. 1For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”
2 Thessalonians 3:7-10 New International Version (NIV)
Currently, the United States is enjoying tremendous economic success in most areas of society, but we painfully remember what it was like in 2008-2011, when millions of Americans were unemployed. The anguish, frustration and despair boiled over, affecting families, communities, and entire cities. People were willing to work but could not find employment. Like much of the developing world, that scenario is not relegated to a temporary recession in Nigeria, but is normal everyday life. There are hundreds of thousands of unemployed people in Nigeria, including thousands of university graduates unable to find work. Without the same safety nets available in America, life becomes very desperate. Part of the problem is the national school system. There is sometimes a disconnect between subjects taught in the classrooms, and labor market needs.
Imani Bridges is addressing this need with monthly vocational training at the Badagry Transformational Engagement Center (TEC). Students learn a particular craft, and how to start, run and finance a home-based business, or take their skills into the job market and find real employment. This was particularly showcased during the March mission week, where 230 men and women were trained in 10 vocational classes, and 55 in the Imani Leadership Institute business track.
230 Men and women were trained in 10 vocational classes.
The response to, and demand for entrepreneurial vocational training is acute, and our Nigerian brothers and sisters are willing and prepared to provide it. As people gain skills and increase their income, families can be stabilized, children receive a better education, self-esteem and confidence grows, and the entire community benefits. This also greatly increases the relevance and outreach of the local churches who participate as partners in the Imani Bridges vision.
HUNGER FOR KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS
The next class for the Imani Leadership Institute was just completed and Kathy and 4 other American faculty members returned home June 2.
They joined their Nigerian counterparts and hosted 100+ senior church and denominational leaders for 4 classes; two in Badagry and two in Lagos. This training in church-based community development, some now in their 4th segment, are already having widespread influence for God’s Kingdom in communities across the region. The desire of these extraordinary church leaders who are hungry to learn and apply the lessons in their cultural and community context is tremendously impressive.
During the ILI Church & Society sessions, two monthly vocational classes were completed at the TEC, led by our Nigerian partners. First class was in paint making. Here in America, if we need paint, we simply go to the local store with our paint swatch, choose the color, and walk out with it premixed, or have the store customize it. In Nigeria, such a system does not exist, so if you want paint of any color, someone has to make it for you. Now our graduates can provide that service and get paid for it.
The second class was in purse making, and the students all walked out with the skills to make them, and sell them. Two classes- two new skills- ability to be paid for your labor and knowledge. That is the Christian faith at work in the community.
For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. 1For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”
2 Thessalonians 3:7-10 New International Version (NIV)
Currently, the United States is enjoying tremendous economic success in most areas of society, but we painfully remember what it was like in 2008-2011, when millions of Americans were unemployed. The anguish, frustration and despair boiled over, affecting families, communities, and entire cities. People were willing to work but could not find employment. Like much of the developing world, that scenario is not relegated to a temporary recession in Nigeria, but is normal everyday life. There are hundreds of thousands of unemployed people in Nigeria, including thousands of university graduates unable to find work. Without the same safety nets available in America, life becomes very desperate. Part of the problem is the national school system. There is sometimes a disconnect between subjects taught in the classrooms, and labor market needs.
Imani Bridges is addressing this need with monthly vocational training at the Badagry Transformational Engagement Center (TEC). Students learn a particular craft, and how to start, run and finance a home-based business, or take their skills into the job market and find real employment. This was particularly showcased during the March mission week, where 230 men and women were trained in 10 vocational classes, and 55 in the Imani Leadership Institute business track.
230 Men and women were trained in 10 vocational classes.
The response to, and demand for entrepreneurial vocational training is acute, and our Nigerian brothers and sisters are willing and prepared to provide it. As people gain skills and increase their income, families can be stabilized, children receive a better education, self-esteem and confidence grows, and the entire community benefits. This also greatly increases the relevance and outreach of the local churches who participate as partners in the Imani Bridges vision.
HUNGER FOR KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS
The next class for the Imani Leadership Institute was just completed and Kathy and 4 other American faculty members returned home June 2.
They joined their Nigerian counterparts and hosted 100+ senior church and denominational leaders for 4 classes; two in Badagry and two in Lagos. This training in church-based community development, some now in their 4th segment, are already having widespread influence for God’s Kingdom in communities across the region. The desire of these extraordinary church leaders who are hungry to learn and apply the lessons in their cultural and community context is tremendously impressive.
During the ILI Church & Society sessions, two monthly vocational classes were completed at the TEC, led by our Nigerian partners. First class was in paint making. Here in America, if we need paint, we simply go to the local store with our paint swatch, choose the color, and walk out with it premixed, or have the store customize it. In Nigeria, such a system does not exist, so if you want paint of any color, someone has to make it for you. Now our graduates can provide that service and get paid for it.
The second class was in purse making, and the students all walked out with the skills to make them, and sell them. Two classes- two new skills- ability to be paid for your labor and knowledge. That is the Christian faith at work in the community.
2017
OUR BRIDGES
May 2017
IMANI LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE TRIP
Our American and Nigerian faculty from the Imani Leadership Institute will be back in Lagos May 5-16, teaching 100+ pastors and denominational leaders the ministry principles demonstrated in Badagry. Please pray for all of us, for strength, wisdom, and the power of God’s Spirit to speak through us.
Our American and Nigerian faculty from the Imani Leadership Institute will be back in Lagos May 5-16, teaching 100+ pastors and denominational leaders the ministry principles demonstrated in Badagry. Please pray for all of us, for strength, wisdom, and the power of God’s Spirit to speak through us.
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HE IS RISEN
March 2017
HAPPY EASTER
May each of you experience a wonderful, safe, and blessed Resurrection Sunday. We want to lift our hands in praise to our Heavenly Father for the gift of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord; His life, death, and glorious resurrection.
“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15: 57
BADAGRY
March 10-20, 2017 marks one of the highlights in the history of Imani Bridges. 17 Americans traveled to Badagry, Nigeria to join with 355 of our Nigerian brothers and sisters to comprise the Imani Bridges team (109 from local churches). It was a momentous time of ministry and transformation. Over the next few newsletters, we will be showcasing different aspects of the trip.
REFLECTION
Below is a short pictorial overview of our March Mission Trip. We're pleased our incredible journey wraps up this Easter message. It was transformational, for both the Americans and Nigerians who sacrificed their time and resources to serve the Lord in Badagry.
Our multi-racial, cross-denominational American team joined our Nigerian brethren who represented several distinct tribes, and almost 40 denominations from Catholic, to Anglican; Baptist to Pentecostal. 29 Nigerian churches and 10 of Imani Bridges National Partners came together in March. It was a beautiful fulfillment of Paul’s exhortation in Ephesians 4:3-4, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, just as you are called to one hope when you were called.”
In the coming weeks, we will share some specific accounts from the various activities of this citywide week of ministry. Also, please follow us on the Imani Bridges Facebook page, with our daily updates from the trip.
BRIDGES
Our American and Nigerian faculty from the Imani Leadership Institute will be back in Lagos May 5-16, teaching 100+ pastors and denominational leaders the ministry principles demonstrated in Badagry. Please pray for all of us, for strength, wisdom, and the power of God’s Spirit to speak through us.
May each of you experience a wonderful, safe, and blessed Resurrection Sunday. We want to lift our hands in praise to our Heavenly Father for the gift of Jesus Christ, our Savior and Lord; His life, death, and glorious resurrection.
“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 15: 57
BADAGRY
March 10-20, 2017 marks one of the highlights in the history of Imani Bridges. 17 Americans traveled to Badagry, Nigeria to join with 355 of our Nigerian brothers and sisters to comprise the Imani Bridges team (109 from local churches). It was a momentous time of ministry and transformation. Over the next few newsletters, we will be showcasing different aspects of the trip.
REFLECTION
Below is a short pictorial overview of our March Mission Trip. We're pleased our incredible journey wraps up this Easter message. It was transformational, for both the Americans and Nigerians who sacrificed their time and resources to serve the Lord in Badagry.
Our multi-racial, cross-denominational American team joined our Nigerian brethren who represented several distinct tribes, and almost 40 denominations from Catholic, to Anglican; Baptist to Pentecostal. 29 Nigerian churches and 10 of Imani Bridges National Partners came together in March. It was a beautiful fulfillment of Paul’s exhortation in Ephesians 4:3-4, “Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body, and one Spirit, just as you are called to one hope when you were called.”
In the coming weeks, we will share some specific accounts from the various activities of this citywide week of ministry. Also, please follow us on the Imani Bridges Facebook page, with our daily updates from the trip.
BRIDGES
Our American and Nigerian faculty from the Imani Leadership Institute will be back in Lagos May 5-16, teaching 100+ pastors and denominational leaders the ministry principles demonstrated in Badagry. Please pray for all of us, for strength, wisdom, and the power of God’s Spirit to speak through us.
Our team arrived at the Lagos airport, and were met by our Badagry anchor partner, Missions Aid International and Charismatic Renewal Ministries.
Members of our joint team in child evangelism on the streets of Badagry.
Vocational training classes under the tent at the new school.
We named her Pure Joy. She received her eyesight after 40 years of blindness.
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Our Nigerian team was in worship when we arrived for the opening ceremony at Town Hall.
Patients receiving help at the medical clinic pharmacy after seeing the doctor.
Our team with the crowd gathered to see Dr. Okorodudu, the eye surgeon.
After cleaning up the beach, we prayed and claimed a new name for the Point of No Return. It is now the Point of Return, and a sacred site.
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Crowds gathered for the opening ceremony at Town Hall.
Dr. Kathy Dudley and Peter Egho, Imani Bridges Nigeria Director, rejoice with the healed woman.
Dr. Kathy Dudley and Sayres Dudley with Dr. Cosmas Ilechukwu, General Overseer of Charismatic Renewal Ministries.
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IMANI BRIDGES NIGERIA MISSION
A team of 17 from the U.S. will join approximately 300 volunteers from Nigeria for a mission in Badagry, Nigeria in the second week of March. We expect to serve thousands of local residents through our outreach programs. These include: children and youth programs, medical and dental, vocational training in 10 classes, and daily evangelism outreach. Please consider joining us in this mission by contributing the following needs:
A team of 17 from the U.S. will join approximately 300 volunteers from Nigeria for a mission in Badagry, Nigeria in the second week of March. We expect to serve thousands of local residents through our outreach programs. These include: children and youth programs, medical and dental, vocational training in 10 classes, and daily evangelism outreach. Please consider joining us in this mission by contributing the following needs:
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MEDICAL CARE IN BADAGRY
March 10-20, 2017 marked one of the highlights in the history of Imani Bridges. Seventeen Americans traveled to Badagry, Nigeria to join with 355 of our Nigerian brothers and sisters to comprise the Imani Bridges team (109 from local churches). It was a momentous time of ministry and transformation. We were blessed to have Africa Cataract and De. Okorodudu (video above right).
March 10-20, 2017 marked one of the highlights in the history of Imani Bridges. Seventeen Americans traveled to Badagry, Nigeria to join with 355 of our Nigerian brothers and sisters to comprise the Imani Bridges team (109 from local churches). It was a momentous time of ministry and transformation. We were blessed to have Africa Cataract and De. Okorodudu (video above right).
VANUATU
This month, with your support we were able to send medical supplies to Vanuatu. For years, they have planted churches, built schools, and health clinics in Nigeria as well as other parts of the world. Pastor Peter and his church have established several churches on the small island of Vanuatu about 310 miles off the shore of northern Australia. The church has won the respect of President Baldwin Lonsdale.
Last spring, Vanuatu was hit by Cyclone Pam. The small island was devastated. President Lonsdale called the storm a “monster” that took dozens of souls, destroyed 90 percent of the buildings in the capital, and forced the nation to start over. Pastor Peter’s church responded with unbelievable generosity by gathering supplies from Nigeria and shipped them to Vanuatu to help rebuild. He also reached out to Imani Bridges. We were more than happy to come to their aid.
Imani Bridges reached out to Mission Regan in McKinney, Texas. We have partnered with this ministry for over 3 years which has access to medical supplies. Their donations go to other nonprofits to be shipped overseas. To find out more about Mission Regan, click here.
This month, with your support we were able to send medical supplies to Vanuatu. For years, they have planted churches, built schools, and health clinics in Nigeria as well as other parts of the world. Pastor Peter and his church have established several churches on the small island of Vanuatu about 310 miles off the shore of northern Australia. The church has won the respect of President Baldwin Lonsdale.
Last spring, Vanuatu was hit by Cyclone Pam. The small island was devastated. President Lonsdale called the storm a “monster” that took dozens of souls, destroyed 90 percent of the buildings in the capital, and forced the nation to start over. Pastor Peter’s church responded with unbelievable generosity by gathering supplies from Nigeria and shipped them to Vanuatu to help rebuild. He also reached out to Imani Bridges. We were more than happy to come to their aid.
Imani Bridges reached out to Mission Regan in McKinney, Texas. We have partnered with this ministry for over 3 years which has access to medical supplies. Their donations go to other nonprofits to be shipped overseas. To find out more about Mission Regan, click here.
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BADAGRY & LAGOS
In 2004, Dr. Kathy Dudley, a group of visionaries and local Nigerian leaders formed Imani Bridges, a non-profit ministry with the vision to serve as a strategic mobilization agency that equips, connects, and empowers leaders, provides for a venue of fellowship and the exchange of ideas, and implements community and economic development initiatives.
Together, they imagined this collaborative effort would create culturally sustainable solutions to healthcare, education, and hunger problems using a Biblical approach rooted in and led by the local Nigerian churches and supported by the global community.
For the past 10 years, Imani Bridges has done just this.
In 2004, Dr. Kathy Dudley, a group of visionaries and local Nigerian leaders formed Imani Bridges, a non-profit ministry with the vision to serve as a strategic mobilization agency that equips, connects, and empowers leaders, provides for a venue of fellowship and the exchange of ideas, and implements community and economic development initiatives.
Together, they imagined this collaborative effort would create culturally sustainable solutions to healthcare, education, and hunger problems using a Biblical approach rooted in and led by the local Nigerian churches and supported by the global community.
For the past 10 years, Imani Bridges has done just this.
2016
HIGHLIGHTS
December 2016
As each of us prepares to celebrate Christmas, and remember the birth of our Savior, we give thanks that God has allowed us to see another year come and go. That indeed is a gift from God.
At Imani Bridges, we truly rejoice, because 2016 was our most eventful, and fruitful year since this ministry was birthed in 2004. For anyone who has donated to Imani Bridges in the past, or if you simply request it, we will be mailing out an annual report sometime in the first quarter, 2017, for you to read in detail the impact your donations have made. For this year-end letter though, I want to share some key highlights so you can rejoice with us.
IMANI BRIDGES PRESIDENT RECEIVES TWO PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS
Dr. Kathy Dudley was honored for her ministry work by two different organizations. VERNA’S H.E.L.P Foundation presented her the 2016 Living Legends Award at their annual banquet in Dallas, in recognition of her years of service throughout the city of Dallas.
In October, The Christian Association of Nigerian Americans (CANAN) honored Dr. Dudley with their 2016 Friend of Nigeria award at their annual banquet in Houston. Presenting to her and the other 10 distinguished awardees was the Vice President of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo.
At Imani Bridges, we truly rejoice, because 2016 was our most eventful, and fruitful year since this ministry was birthed in 2004. For anyone who has donated to Imani Bridges in the past, or if you simply request it, we will be mailing out an annual report sometime in the first quarter, 2017, for you to read in detail the impact your donations have made. For this year-end letter though, I want to share some key highlights so you can rejoice with us.
IMANI BRIDGES PRESIDENT RECEIVES TWO PRESTIGIOUS AWARDS
Dr. Kathy Dudley was honored for her ministry work by two different organizations. VERNA’S H.E.L.P Foundation presented her the 2016 Living Legends Award at their annual banquet in Dallas, in recognition of her years of service throughout the city of Dallas.
In October, The Christian Association of Nigerian Americans (CANAN) honored Dr. Dudley with their 2016 Friend of Nigeria award at their annual banquet in Houston. Presenting to her and the other 10 distinguished awardees was the Vice President of Nigeria, Professor Yemi Osinbajo.
LEFT: Dr. Dudley received VERNA'S H.E.L.P. Living Legends Award for 2016.
RIGHT: Dr. Dudley receives the 2016 Friend of Nigeria by The Christian Association of Nigerian Americans. |
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THE MIRACLE IN VANUATU
Pastor Peter Egho, one of our IB partners, requested help with critically needed medical supplies to restock the hospital in Vanuatu, after Cyclone Pam destroyed the island. The Body of Christ worked together, and through a donation from our local medical supplies partner, Mission Regan, Imani Bridges shipped a 20 ft. container to the island (almost $500,000 of supplies), where Peter’s pastors and the President of Vanuatu received it with great joy. It was the largest private donation ever received in that island nation, and the President acknowledged the generosity of God’s people. What a testimony this became. LEFT: Pastor Peter Egho speaks to the media about the generosity of God's love for those who suffered after Hurricane Pam devastated Vanuatu. |
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THE CHALLENGE GRANT FOR THE BADAGRY TRANSFORMATIONAL ENGAGEMENT CENTER
In collaboration with our IB Fellowship partners in Nigeria, the first phase of the Badagry center is moving towards completion, and a grand opening in March, 2017. Many of you responded to our Challenge Grant, allowing us to fulfill our financial commitment to the project, matching that of our Nigerian partners. The project has faced many unseen challenges, including a devaluation of the Nigerian currency, which produced tremendous inflation. Yet in spite of all the obstacles, our partners have persevered, and our US team will join them in March to complete and dedicate the facility. |
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IMANI BRIDGES LAUNCHES THE IMANI LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE
In May, we held our first two 18 hour intensives on Church and Society for pastors and denominational leaders, taught by an esteemed faculty. Our American and Nigerian team trained over 100 participants in ILI Module 101. In October we returned to teach Module 102, and introduce another class to Module 101. In total we have trained 130 denominational leaders and senior leaders already this year. The feedback from the students on how they are now applying the class has been tremendous. |
VOICE OF HOPE EARLY YEARS REUNION AND WORK PROJECT
After years of reconnecting on social media, a reunion of Promise Kids, their families, and original VOH staff and volunteers took place October 15 in West Dallas. A committee planned the event, and over 150 came for a time of fellowship, food and memories. It was culminated by the PK’s singing songs they learned at VOH 20+ years ago, and giving testimonies of God’s goodness in their lives. To continue our commitment together, on November 19, volunteers provided funds and materials to reroof and repair the home of one of our VOH Early Years families. It was the first of what will be new local ministry initiatives that Imani Bridges will be doing moving forward.
After years of reconnecting on social media, a reunion of Promise Kids, their families, and original VOH staff and volunteers took place October 15 in West Dallas. A committee planned the event, and over 150 came for a time of fellowship, food and memories. It was culminated by the PK’s singing songs they learned at VOH 20+ years ago, and giving testimonies of God’s goodness in their lives. To continue our commitment together, on November 19, volunteers provided funds and materials to reroof and repair the home of one of our VOH Early Years families. It was the first of what will be new local ministry initiatives that Imani Bridges will be doing moving forward.
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THANKFUL FOR A JOYFUL REUNION
November 2016
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 TNIV
Looking back on 2016, it has been a joyous year for Imani Bridges and the Dudley family. In our next newsletter I will try to capture the highlights for the year so you can rejoice with us; however, for now, I want to focus on something that recently happened locally for which I am deeply grateful.
In 1982, my husband and I had the privilege of founding Voice of Hope Ministries. I served as President of Voice of Hope until 1995 when I turned it over to African American leadership. Jonda Mitchell, a child who grew up at Voice Hope approached me earlier this year. Deeply burdened for the children and families in West Dallas, she revealed she was sensing God’s call to the ministry and asked if I would mentor her. Jonda was 1 year old when VOH was founded and has become a very successful, educated businesswoman. However, she has increasingly sensed God’s call on her life to work in the ministry. As an initial outreach Jonda became the chair of a committee comprised of some of the original families and Promise Kids from the Voice of Hope Early Years (1982-1995) when I was President. For several months the committee worked on this important event to reconnect and fellowship with one another.
Looking back on 2016, it has been a joyous year for Imani Bridges and the Dudley family. In our next newsletter I will try to capture the highlights for the year so you can rejoice with us; however, for now, I want to focus on something that recently happened locally for which I am deeply grateful.
In 1982, my husband and I had the privilege of founding Voice of Hope Ministries. I served as President of Voice of Hope until 1995 when I turned it over to African American leadership. Jonda Mitchell, a child who grew up at Voice Hope approached me earlier this year. Deeply burdened for the children and families in West Dallas, she revealed she was sensing God’s call to the ministry and asked if I would mentor her. Jonda was 1 year old when VOH was founded and has become a very successful, educated businesswoman. However, she has increasingly sensed God’s call on her life to work in the ministry. As an initial outreach Jonda became the chair of a committee comprised of some of the original families and Promise Kids from the Voice of Hope Early Years (1982-1995) when I was President. For several months the committee worked on this important event to reconnect and fellowship with one another.
The reunion took place on October 15, and 200+ gathered in West Dallas. The pictures below shows a spectacular day, filled with laughter, hugs, tears, songs, testimonies, games, and wonderful memories.
LEFT: Three Generations of the Brown Family
RIGHT: Some of the original Promise Kids singing one of their favorite songs with their teacher Nelda Washington BOTTOM LEFT: Fathers and Sons reuniting at the reunion COLLAGE RIGHT: The Voice of Hope Early Years Family (1982-1995) |
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IMANI LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE LAUNCH
June 2016
"What you have heard in the presence of many witnesses, this entrust to faithful men and women who will teach others."
- II Timothy 2:2
We are thrilled to announce that Imani Bridges launched the Imani Leadership Institute (ILI) in Nigeria, May 16-20, 2016.
ILI is our main vehicle for research, documentation, and training in Africa. When fully developed, it will serve our partners through research, curriculum design, and training aimed at strategic leadership empowerment and community renewal as stipulated under the Imani vision.
The first modules taught at each location consisted of a 18 hour intensive on Church and Society. With an international team of instructors from Nigeria and the U.S., there was an interweaving of themes through the various presentations from the more theoretical, to the best practices and the ability to point out connections. One of our Nigerian instructors said, “The structure of parading best practices from across the continents have testimony to the truth and practicability of the concepts and theories.”
Our team first arrived in Calabar on May 16th, hosted by Dr. Nick Ezeh. Dr. Ezeh is the General Overseer of Christ for the World Mission, a denomination with 400+ churches, two secondary schools, and one college. Pastor Ezeh is an original member of the 2004 Imani Fellowship, birthed from the Bishops Class at West Africa Theological Seminary in Lagos, Nigeria.
There were 54 pastors, regional pastors, general overseers and leaders from Christ for The World Mission and other denominations who participated in the 2 day intensive Church & Society Overiview module on Monday and Tuesday. The initial feedback has been tremendous, and we give God thanks for his presence among us. Our fellowship, interaction and participation were deep and meaningful.
- II Timothy 2:2
We are thrilled to announce that Imani Bridges launched the Imani Leadership Institute (ILI) in Nigeria, May 16-20, 2016.
ILI is our main vehicle for research, documentation, and training in Africa. When fully developed, it will serve our partners through research, curriculum design, and training aimed at strategic leadership empowerment and community renewal as stipulated under the Imani vision.
The first modules taught at each location consisted of a 18 hour intensive on Church and Society. With an international team of instructors from Nigeria and the U.S., there was an interweaving of themes through the various presentations from the more theoretical, to the best practices and the ability to point out connections. One of our Nigerian instructors said, “The structure of parading best practices from across the continents have testimony to the truth and practicability of the concepts and theories.”
Our team first arrived in Calabar on May 16th, hosted by Dr. Nick Ezeh. Dr. Ezeh is the General Overseer of Christ for the World Mission, a denomination with 400+ churches, two secondary schools, and one college. Pastor Ezeh is an original member of the 2004 Imani Fellowship, birthed from the Bishops Class at West Africa Theological Seminary in Lagos, Nigeria.
There were 54 pastors, regional pastors, general overseers and leaders from Christ for The World Mission and other denominations who participated in the 2 day intensive Church & Society Overiview module on Monday and Tuesday. The initial feedback has been tremendous, and we give God thanks for his presence among us. Our fellowship, interaction and participation were deep and meaningful.
After a travel day back to Lagos on Wednesday the 18th, we were hosted by Pastor Leke Akinola. Pastor Akinola is the General Overseer of Upper Room Baptist and a member of the Imani Fellowship since 2012.
There were 48 participants in this second module including key senior pastors representing the Upper Room Baptist churches, with the majority being a group of General Overseers of other denominations, representing thousands of churches. In our next newsletter, we will highlight some of the feedback received from participants, but here is an excerpt from Pastor Leke. “Every participant is involved in their different locations in community work and from their testimonies they learned a great deal about how not to do Church and to replicate Jesus in their community. On my own part, the program is one of the most impactful seminars I have attended in my over 25 years of ministry and I am looking forward to a greater and better partnership with Imani Bridges.”
There were 48 participants in this second module including key senior pastors representing the Upper Room Baptist churches, with the majority being a group of General Overseers of other denominations, representing thousands of churches. In our next newsletter, we will highlight some of the feedback received from participants, but here is an excerpt from Pastor Leke. “Every participant is involved in their different locations in community work and from their testimonies they learned a great deal about how not to do Church and to replicate Jesus in their community. On my own part, the program is one of the most impactful seminars I have attended in my over 25 years of ministry and I am looking forward to a greater and better partnership with Imani Bridges.”
Dr. Ezeh leading the group in prayer. Oh my how the Nigerians pray.
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Dr. Betsy Glanville, Sr. Faculty, School of Intercultural Studies, Fuller Seminary.
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Dr. Emmanuel Nwachukwu, President of Mission Aid International and Imani Bridges partner in Badagry teaching in Lagos.
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Dr. Kathy teaching at the Lagos Intensive.
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MEDICAL SUPPLIES ARRIVE IN VANUATU
Imani Bridges packed and shipped a 20-foot container of medical supplies to the island archipelago of Vanuatu, at the request of Pastor Peter Egho. Pastor Egho is one of our Imani Fellowship members in Nigeria. He has planted many churches throughout Vanuatu over the past few years. Last year, Vanuatu was virtually destroyed by Cyclone Pam and medical supplies were greatly needed to resupply the hospitals there.
There was a great celebration when the supplies were received. So many of you made this donation possible. God truly mobilized HIS PEOPLE from around the globe. Many of you gave financially for the shipment costs; others volunteered both here and in Vanuatu with labor and love.
Thank you MISSION REGAN and all your partners in Dallas who gave generously of the supplies. I believe GOD was truly glorified in this effort as the Body of Christ worked together to meet this critical need in Vanuatu.
Imani Bridges packed and shipped a 20-foot container of medical supplies to the island archipelago of Vanuatu, at the request of Pastor Peter Egho. Pastor Egho is one of our Imani Fellowship members in Nigeria. He has planted many churches throughout Vanuatu over the past few years. Last year, Vanuatu was virtually destroyed by Cyclone Pam and medical supplies were greatly needed to resupply the hospitals there.
There was a great celebration when the supplies were received. So many of you made this donation possible. God truly mobilized HIS PEOPLE from around the globe. Many of you gave financially for the shipment costs; others volunteered both here and in Vanuatu with labor and love.
Thank you MISSION REGAN and all your partners in Dallas who gave generously of the supplies. I believe GOD was truly glorified in this effort as the Body of Christ worked together to meet this critical need in Vanuatu.
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LEFT: Dignitaries cutting the ribbon to open the container.
ABOVE: The Vanuatu media reported to the locals on the arrival of the shipping container full of medical supplies. |
HAPPY EASTER
March 2016
“While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, ‘Why are you troubled and why do doubts rise in your minds? Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see, a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.’ When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet.” Luke 24: 36- 40
Having returned this week from a vision trip to Nigeria, where our team spent a time of sweet fellowship with our Imani Bridges Partners, we pause to give God thanks for this Easter weekend.
We visited amazing projects of some of our Nigerian Partners, including the construction progress of the school/community center in Badagry. In addition, there was a municipal water system designed and developed by one of our core partners, a thriving vocational school giving hope to many very poor young people, several schools producing Christian leaders who excel academically and spiritually and medical clinics serving the needy.
We rejoice most in the commitment and vision of so many great leaders from different tribes, churches, and communities in Nigeria to work together over the past twelve years to answer the prayer of God in John 17, to love each other and promote the oneness of the Body.
On this Good Friday, we send you Easter greetings and give thanks to our many friends who pray for us and stand with us.
Having returned this week from a vision trip to Nigeria, where our team spent a time of sweet fellowship with our Imani Bridges Partners, we pause to give God thanks for this Easter weekend.
We visited amazing projects of some of our Nigerian Partners, including the construction progress of the school/community center in Badagry. In addition, there was a municipal water system designed and developed by one of our core partners, a thriving vocational school giving hope to many very poor young people, several schools producing Christian leaders who excel academically and spiritually and medical clinics serving the needy.
We rejoice most in the commitment and vision of so many great leaders from different tribes, churches, and communities in Nigeria to work together over the past twelve years to answer the prayer of God in John 17, to love each other and promote the oneness of the Body.
On this Good Friday, we send you Easter greetings and give thanks to our many friends who pray for us and stand with us.
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LEFT: Imani Bridges bishops touring one of our members church and community outreach ministries
ABOVE: Bishops' Fellowship in Lagos |
ONE LORD, ONE GOD, ONE CHURCH
February 2016
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Let me share a wonderful testimony of how God’s people are working together to fulfill HIS mission. For 11 years, I have been in relationship with tremendous Christian leaders in Nigeria. We have developed our friendship, trust in the Lord, and established our first sustainable project in Badagry. Together we have built a school and community center. One of our Imani Bridges partners is Pastor Peter Egho, a Provincial Pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
PHOTO: Dr. Kathy and Pastor Peter Egho |
For years, they have planted churches, built schools, and health clinics in Nigeria as well as other parts of the world. Pastor Peter and his church have established several churches on the small island of Vanuatu about 310 miles off the shore of northern Australia. The church has won the respect of President Baldwin Lonsdale.
Last spring, Vanuatu was hit by Cyclone Pam. The small island was devastated. President Lonsdale called the storm a “monster” that took dozens of souls, destroyed 90 percent of the buildings in the capital, and forced the nation to start over. Pastor Peter’s church responded with unbelievable generosity by gathering supplies from Nigeria and shipped them to Vanuatu to help rebuild. He also reached out to Imani Bridges. We were more than happy to come to their aid.
Last spring, Vanuatu was hit by Cyclone Pam. The small island was devastated. President Lonsdale called the storm a “monster” that took dozens of souls, destroyed 90 percent of the buildings in the capital, and forced the nation to start over. Pastor Peter’s church responded with unbelievable generosity by gathering supplies from Nigeria and shipped them to Vanuatu to help rebuild. He also reached out to Imani Bridges. We were more than happy to come to their aid.
Cyclone Pam destroys much of Vanuatu
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In this example, we see God fulfilling our vision of connecting HIS people from across the globe, leveraging our collective spiritual gifts and resources, to be agents of transformation in our world.
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Imani Bridges reached out to Mission Regan in McKinney, Texas. We have partnered with this ministry for over 3 years which has access to medical supplies. Their donations go to other nonprofits to be shipped overseas.
Mission Regan will donate a 20-foot container of medical supplies. Imani Bridges will take care of its long journey from McKinney, Texas to Houston, Texas to Vanuatu. Finding a way to ship to this tiny island has been an arduous task, but it is now a reality, thanks to Gary Amerson volunteering many hours to coordinate this much needed aid.
This generous donation will restock bare-shelf clinics and hospitals for the people of Vanuatu who are suffering from this devastation. We are demonstrating the tangible love of Jesus Christ to that nation. Pastor Peter’s church will receive Imani Bridges’ donations and distribute.
Mission Regan will donate a 20-foot container of medical supplies. Imani Bridges will take care of its long journey from McKinney, Texas to Houston, Texas to Vanuatu. Finding a way to ship to this tiny island has been an arduous task, but it is now a reality, thanks to Gary Amerson volunteering many hours to coordinate this much needed aid.
This generous donation will restock bare-shelf clinics and hospitals for the people of Vanuatu who are suffering from this devastation. We are demonstrating the tangible love of Jesus Christ to that nation. Pastor Peter’s church will receive Imani Bridges’ donations and distribute.
2015
WE ARE ALMOST THERE
Fall 2015
“Praise the Lord. Sing to the Lord a new song, his praise in the assembly of the saints. Let them praise his name with dancing and make music to him with tambourine and harp. For the Lord takes delight in his people; he crowns the humble with salvation” Psalms 149:1, 3-4
When I read these verses, I have such vivid memories of worshipping the Lord Jesus with our brothers and sisters in Nigeria. In their beautiful colorful clothes, they truly praise the Lord with uplifted voices, majestic singing, and they dance with tambourines in that wonderful rhythmic way that stirs the soul. I have worshipped in many of the churches of our dear Nigerian partners, and I am humbled as I witness the sacrificial way many of these Godly men and women have given up successful corporate careers to serve the Lord in full time ministry.
When I read these verses, I have such vivid memories of worshipping the Lord Jesus with our brothers and sisters in Nigeria. In their beautiful colorful clothes, they truly praise the Lord with uplifted voices, majestic singing, and they dance with tambourines in that wonderful rhythmic way that stirs the soul. I have worshipped in many of the churches of our dear Nigerian partners, and I am humbled as I witness the sacrificial way many of these Godly men and women have given up successful corporate careers to serve the Lord in full time ministry.
These same leaders covenanted with me in forming Imani Bridges and the Imani Fellowship, to work together, bringing their resources and best practices into IB, in order to further the Kingdom of God in Nigeria. My dear friend, Pastor Keith Stewart saw this unified effort first hand earlier this year. Please watch his video, and feel his passion as he expresses what this school will mean in transforming many lives.
God has been faithful to help them, and us raise the funds for the new school and Transformational Engagement Center in Badagry. Families are waiting to enroll their children, to give them a future and a hope. Hundreds of students will receive a stellar academic education and be trained as Godly leaders to help lead their communities.
God has been faithful to help them, and us raise the funds for the new school and Transformational Engagement Center in Badagry. Families are waiting to enroll their children, to give them a future and a hope. Hundreds of students will receive a stellar academic education and be trained as Godly leaders to help lead their communities.
SUSTAINABILITY IS EVERYTHING IN AFRICA
Summer 2015
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I was once again privileged to travel to Nigeria in May with our dear friend and ministry partner, Senior Pastor Keith Stewart of Springcreek Churchand his Creative Pastor/Director of Communications, Scott Harper. Keith and his church have ministered in Africa for years, but the message and demonstration of reconciliation, collaboration, and interdependence shone in the Imani Bridges model really touched his heart. Keith wanted to capture the essence of the Imani Bridges story on film to provide a tool for others to learn of about our unique ministry model. We once again hand carried suitcases of donated medical supplies for the clinic of one of Imani Bridges’ partner, Mission Regan.
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We enjoyed a wonderful evening reunion of the Imani Bridges Fellowship, a cross-denomination and cross-tribal group of denominational leaders, who with myself, formed Imani Bridges 11 years ago. I am always touched and amazed at what God has done to create such unity and deep fellowship among us. We remain humbled to be in partnership with such esteemed Godly leaders.
We visited the school in Badagry, now under construction, where the members of the Imani Bridges Fellowship have contributed time, money, and resources to bring to reality. Pastor Keith, Scott and I then flew to Owerri to the headquarters of Charismatic Renewal Ministries (CRM), our anchor partner in Badagry, to visit Dr. Cosmas Ilecheckwu and his team. We also toured their award-winning school, which is not only a great academic environment, but an example of sustainability and self determination. it is the model we will use on the campus in Badagry, and CRM will operate the school. Click here to watch the video taken at the school.
The school will not only be an example of sustainability and collaborative partnership, but also learning laboratory for the teaching of best practices. Most of the Imani Bridges partners operate schools as part of their denominations, and our school will provide a venue for them to learn from and teach one another. They will take back what they've learned to their own campuses to implement. God’s people, working together in harmony, praying and sharing, in order to expand the demonstration and proclamation of the gospel of Jesus.
We visited the school in Badagry, now under construction, where the members of the Imani Bridges Fellowship have contributed time, money, and resources to bring to reality. Pastor Keith, Scott and I then flew to Owerri to the headquarters of Charismatic Renewal Ministries (CRM), our anchor partner in Badagry, to visit Dr. Cosmas Ilecheckwu and his team. We also toured their award-winning school, which is not only a great academic environment, but an example of sustainability and self determination. it is the model we will use on the campus in Badagry, and CRM will operate the school. Click here to watch the video taken at the school.
The school will not only be an example of sustainability and collaborative partnership, but also learning laboratory for the teaching of best practices. Most of the Imani Bridges partners operate schools as part of their denominations, and our school will provide a venue for them to learn from and teach one another. They will take back what they've learned to their own campuses to implement. God’s people, working together in harmony, praying and sharing, in order to expand the demonstration and proclamation of the gospel of Jesus.
VIDEO BELOW: Sustainability in Badagry with Pastor Keith and Springcreek Church. Filmed by Scott Harper.
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2014
A SEASON OF JOY & CELEBRATION
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The Imani Bridges family is very grateful for all that has taken place this year. Like us on Facebook to see photos over the next few weeks on all that we have achieved together over the years.
In January, our stakeholders’ trip developed personal relationships between our US and Nigerian partners. The month of March we took 17 Americans (representing 6 six churches and nonprofits) to Nigeria. We joined with over 200 Nigerians, from various churches, denominations and NGO’s to launch the Badagry “Transformational Engagement Center” campus. We worked, worshiped and fellowshipped together for 7 sunny days during the rainy season. Hundreds of Africans came to know Christ. Hundreds were in attendance to receive quality medical care (screening plus eye exams), vital vocational and financial training which allowed them to launch small home based businesses. Now the follow-up to our Badagry trip is being managed by our local partners.
Since mid-April Nigerian leaders from our partner organizations have visited us in Texas and met a number of people from the local Imani Bridges base. We had extensive planning, prayer and focused discussions. We are laying the groundwork which is invaluable as we make future plans for the continued work in Nigeria.
In October, we had our first major event introducing Imani Bridges to a broader audience. Imani was hosted by Encore Enterprises in Dallas’ W Hotel Penthouse. Many of you have “started the conversation” regarding the impact we have made in Badagry & Lagos over the past ten years.
Two of our Nigerian partners flew from Lagos, and shared their hearts with a very receptive crowd as we continue to raise the funds necessary to construct the campus. Last month, we proudly re-launched our website that is not only web friendly but mobile friendly as well!
Finally, I am grateful to have met so many new friends this year who are praying, volunteering, and contributing to this work. Thank you all for supporting Imani Bridges! I have grown to love our Imani family so dearly. We appreciate your collaborative efforts to accomplish the task God has asked us to do.
As the Christmas celebration is upon us, we ask that you remember Imani Bridges in your year-end giving. It’s important for all of us to stop and reflect on the joy and blessings in our lives. While shopping for gifts and gatherings with loved ones, please consider the children in Badagry, Nigeria and the impact our school will make.
In January, our stakeholders’ trip developed personal relationships between our US and Nigerian partners. The month of March we took 17 Americans (representing 6 six churches and nonprofits) to Nigeria. We joined with over 200 Nigerians, from various churches, denominations and NGO’s to launch the Badagry “Transformational Engagement Center” campus. We worked, worshiped and fellowshipped together for 7 sunny days during the rainy season. Hundreds of Africans came to know Christ. Hundreds were in attendance to receive quality medical care (screening plus eye exams), vital vocational and financial training which allowed them to launch small home based businesses. Now the follow-up to our Badagry trip is being managed by our local partners.
Since mid-April Nigerian leaders from our partner organizations have visited us in Texas and met a number of people from the local Imani Bridges base. We had extensive planning, prayer and focused discussions. We are laying the groundwork which is invaluable as we make future plans for the continued work in Nigeria.
In October, we had our first major event introducing Imani Bridges to a broader audience. Imani was hosted by Encore Enterprises in Dallas’ W Hotel Penthouse. Many of you have “started the conversation” regarding the impact we have made in Badagry & Lagos over the past ten years.
Two of our Nigerian partners flew from Lagos, and shared their hearts with a very receptive crowd as we continue to raise the funds necessary to construct the campus. Last month, we proudly re-launched our website that is not only web friendly but mobile friendly as well!
Finally, I am grateful to have met so many new friends this year who are praying, volunteering, and contributing to this work. Thank you all for supporting Imani Bridges! I have grown to love our Imani family so dearly. We appreciate your collaborative efforts to accomplish the task God has asked us to do.
As the Christmas celebration is upon us, we ask that you remember Imani Bridges in your year-end giving. It’s important for all of us to stop and reflect on the joy and blessings in our lives. While shopping for gifts and gatherings with loved ones, please consider the children in Badagry, Nigeria and the impact our school will make.
GIVING THANKS
November 2014
“Thanksgiving is possible only for those who take time to remember; no one can give thanks who has a short memory.” — Author Unknown
I love the Thanksgiving season. This is always a special week for me because our family celebrates my husbands’ birthday, our anniversary and Thanksgiving. Through the years I am grateful for a partner in marriage and life. He shares my passion and burden for the poor and need but above all the love for Christ. We indeed have so much to be grateful for in this life.
I am also grateful for you. You are making a difference in Africa through your prayers, love, gifts and time. I greatly appreciate your support.
THREE FOUNDATIONAL TENETS
September 2014
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This summer has been such a blessing in our home, as we have hosted 7 of our Nigerian friends and partners and had gatherings for others to meet them. The latest were Emmanuel and Nkem Nwatchukwu, the Directors of Mission Aid International. MAI is the missions arm for CRM, our anchor partner in Badagry, and they were the implementing agency for our March mission. We had such a great time, learning more about their lives, but also hearing them talk about the importance of what we are doing. Our partnership with them and investment in this campus will produce huge results.
VIDEO: Nkem speaks about Imani Bridges and the 2014 March Mission |
One of the great surprises at our gathering was that Latoshia Morris and her sister Tameka came. Latoshia was an original Promise Kid at Voice of Hope, who went all the way through the program, and is now 39 years old, and the mother of two. She was a product of our leadership development program, much like what the school in Badagry is creating for Nigeria, and is now a supporter of Imani Bridges/CCCN. She told some of her story, and I want to share some excerpts in this letter.
“When I was hired as the Office Manager of a cleanroom laundry business, I assumed the work would be basic. In my mind, managing an office was the same everywhere. I was totally mistaken. The first red flag was I had never heard of a clean room before. Everything within the walls was 75% foreign to me. I started out my job like a robot, just completing things. After 2.5 weeks of utter torture, and several mistakes, I decided to stop being a victim. I had been given resources and training years ago to be the best I could be, and always work with integrity and commitment.
As a 9 year old Promise Kid at Voice of Hope, Mama D started a job training program. She took us through a series of training methods, but I remember one thing vividly. There was a board that read:
I DO, YOU WATCH
I DO, YOU HELP
YOU DO, I HELP
YOU DO, I WATCH
Wow, even saying those word now, I can hear her voice! That was our basic training model. If you embraced the model, you succeeded. So, I embraced it in this job, and overcame one of the toughest obstacles of my life and it became my greatest achievement. That day I decided to not allow fear to have power, and I gave myself a great reward. I was a double minority, but never allowed myself to dwell on it. Instead, I let my performance and work ethic speak on my behalf and I worked there for 10 years.”
One of the three foundational tenets of Imani Bridges/CCCN in Nigeria is leadership development and it is also for CRM. By helping them build this school, church and multi use campus, they will use their award winning curriculum and proven methodology to help train young people to serve Christ, their community and their nation. Please pray for our success in this endeavor. As you know, the Ebola virus has now spread from Liberia into Nigeria, and CRM actually brought their pastor back to Nigeria from Liberia until they have a better understanding of the situation. This is a frightening development, but our partners continue to faithfully serve the Lord in the midst of crisis. War with the terrorists or facing an unknown epidemic will not deter them from doing what God has asked of them. That is why we are so proud to have them as our partners, and you can know your investment in Imani Bridges/CCCN will produce fourfold.
“When I was hired as the Office Manager of a cleanroom laundry business, I assumed the work would be basic. In my mind, managing an office was the same everywhere. I was totally mistaken. The first red flag was I had never heard of a clean room before. Everything within the walls was 75% foreign to me. I started out my job like a robot, just completing things. After 2.5 weeks of utter torture, and several mistakes, I decided to stop being a victim. I had been given resources and training years ago to be the best I could be, and always work with integrity and commitment.
As a 9 year old Promise Kid at Voice of Hope, Mama D started a job training program. She took us through a series of training methods, but I remember one thing vividly. There was a board that read:
I DO, YOU WATCH
I DO, YOU HELP
YOU DO, I HELP
YOU DO, I WATCH
Wow, even saying those word now, I can hear her voice! That was our basic training model. If you embraced the model, you succeeded. So, I embraced it in this job, and overcame one of the toughest obstacles of my life and it became my greatest achievement. That day I decided to not allow fear to have power, and I gave myself a great reward. I was a double minority, but never allowed myself to dwell on it. Instead, I let my performance and work ethic speak on my behalf and I worked there for 10 years.”
One of the three foundational tenets of Imani Bridges/CCCN in Nigeria is leadership development and it is also for CRM. By helping them build this school, church and multi use campus, they will use their award winning curriculum and proven methodology to help train young people to serve Christ, their community and their nation. Please pray for our success in this endeavor. As you know, the Ebola virus has now spread from Liberia into Nigeria, and CRM actually brought their pastor back to Nigeria from Liberia until they have a better understanding of the situation. This is a frightening development, but our partners continue to faithfully serve the Lord in the midst of crisis. War with the terrorists or facing an unknown epidemic will not deter them from doing what God has asked of them. That is why we are so proud to have them as our partners, and you can know your investment in Imani Bridges/CCCN will produce fourfold.
LEFT to RIGHT: Tameka, Jordyn (Toshia’s son), Jonathan Dudley and Toshia
STRENGTH IN UNITY
July 2014
Since the Badagry mission trip in March, we have had a flurry of activity, including the privilege of hosting partners from Nigeria. Pastor Nick Ezeh and Pastor Sam Ariohoudian were with us in early June, and we hosted a gathering for them. Then Pastor Remi Oluboba and Pastor Segun Osunsan came for an evening, and we had another group at our home to meet them. Both men have about 250-300 churches under their leadership, across Nigeria and around the world. Pastor Remi was one of our partners in March, and he has churches in Northern Nigeria, where the Boko Haram terrorist group operates, where Christians have been the target of the attacks and kidnappings. They were able to give us a Nigerian perspective on that conflict, and how they see God working in the midst of the persecution of believers. It was an enlightening time, and reminded us that news reports through the western media are often not accurate
RIGHT: Some of the young adults from Charismatic Renewal Ministries who worked in the heat with our team on the construction of the new campus in Badagry.
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The girls who were captured were in a northern boarding school, set up with the same intent as our school in Badagry will be. Why a boarding school? The need for intensive education and leadership development in Nigeria is acute, and our partners at CRM, who currently operate an award winning boarding school, have demonstrated the effectiveness of their school curriculum.
Their graduates are serving Christ and their communities as business and spiritual leaders. Our students will come not only from the local area, but from across Nigeria to the school in Badagry, including from the north. Training strong and ethical leaders for the future of Nigeria is imperative for this country of 175MM people.
I have been asked many times; why Badagry? This place carries significance on many fronts. It sits at the southwest border of Benin and Nigeria, on the Gulf of Guinea, which empties into the ocean, and is the second largest city in Lagos State. Badagry has two distinct histories. Beginning in the 1500’s, it became a slave port for the European and later American slave trades. Over 500,000 slaves from across West Africa were captured, shackled and forcefully shipped to their destiny across the ocean. Tens of thousands died during the arduous journey. Our team visited the museum in March, which commemorates this tragic history.
Their graduates are serving Christ and their communities as business and spiritual leaders. Our students will come not only from the local area, but from across Nigeria to the school in Badagry, including from the north. Training strong and ethical leaders for the future of Nigeria is imperative for this country of 175MM people.
I have been asked many times; why Badagry? This place carries significance on many fronts. It sits at the southwest border of Benin and Nigeria, on the Gulf of Guinea, which empties into the ocean, and is the second largest city in Lagos State. Badagry has two distinct histories. Beginning in the 1500’s, it became a slave port for the European and later American slave trades. Over 500,000 slaves from across West Africa were captured, shackled and forcefully shipped to their destiny across the ocean. Tens of thousands died during the arduous journey. Our team visited the museum in March, which commemorates this tragic history.
Our team visits the historic slave quarters, where thousands of shackled West Africans were imprisoned until they were loaded onto slave ships bound for the Western Hemisphere.
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In 2006, Kathy taught a class in Nigeria, and they visited the missionary cemetery in Badagry.
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In the 1800’s the first Anglican missionaries arrived at the port of Badagry, introducing the Christian gospel for the first time to this part of West Africa. They built the first schools, arduously translated the Bible into the local language, and started churches. Most of them are buried in the cemetery in Badagry. The historic slave trade, which ended in the late1800’s, cast an almost doom like spell over Badagry, and the city has suffered tremendous poverty and disdain from surrounding regions. A port and border city, with a lovely beach, it should be a bustling commercial and tourist center, but instead it has remained mired in a cloud like “pale of darkness”, superstition and in some ways, suffers an inferiority complex. Though many churches operate there, there has been no collaborative effort to address the spiritual, physical, mental and social issues of the city before now.
Our collaborative effort, which includes 8 Nigerian churches and denominations, to build the permanent school, church, medical and vocational clinics, and the Acquaponics project is a demonstration to the people of Badagry that the God who created the universe loves them. This campus will serve the city, and provide holistic ministry and caring services which will raise up Godly leaders, and help to reverse the centuries old “pale of darkness” which has plagued the community. We need your help to assist our brethren to complete the facility, and who will then staff, operate and manage the many ministry activities which will take place. This is an investment in leadership which can have a lasting impact. Please partner with us in this endeavor.
Our collaborative effort, which includes 8 Nigerian churches and denominations, to build the permanent school, church, medical and vocational clinics, and the Acquaponics project is a demonstration to the people of Badagry that the God who created the universe loves them. This campus will serve the city, and provide holistic ministry and caring services which will raise up Godly leaders, and help to reverse the centuries old “pale of darkness” which has plagued the community. We need your help to assist our brethren to complete the facility, and who will then staff, operate and manage the many ministry activities which will take place. This is an investment in leadership which can have a lasting impact. Please partner with us in this endeavor.
ONGOING TESTIMONY
June 2014
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Recently, the Dudley’s hosted two of the Nigerian bishops who participated with their churches in the mission activities. Dr. Nick Ezeh, from Calibar, and Bishop Sam Airiohoudion from Okorodu, who represent over 450 churches between them, were here and spoke to a gathering of 35 people.
It was wonderful to hear them tell why they sacrificed to participate and also what was the most meaningful. Many others shared their story of transformation due to the mission experience. |
As was shared in the last newsletter, multitudes of people in Badagry were touched by the Lord through the Nigerian and American teams who ministered. Whether it was doctors and nurses, vocational trainers, our acquaponics partner, the construction crews, or all the teams sharing the good news of Jesus by word and deed, lives were changed and impacted during that week. One of the most powerful testimonies of all though was the unity of the Body, on display through all the programs. Baptists, Anglicans, Pentecostals and Methodists worked in harmony, across tribal, denominational and national boundaries. Americans and Nigerians both sacrificed to be there to serve the people of Badagry, and support the building of the Compassion Creates Change Nigeria school and church campus. It was evident all week, as the joy of the Lord was present everywhere, while the teams were working. Egos and agendas were put aside, and the volunteers learned about each other while serving, and sharing their faith. Everyone proudly displayed their blue CCCN shirts, symbolizing our unified effort.
Bishop Sam (video below), who spent the entire week serving with our American team, endeared himself deeply with all of us, by his Christ-like attitude of servant leadership. Here is just a short excerpt of what he shared.
“It was a life transforming trip because of the unity and bond that was created by all the churches working in harmony. In all my years of ministry, this is the first time I saw different denominational pastors working together to achieve a common goal without asking what is in this for me and my church. The vision that Kathy gave us and taught us over time, which then played out through Compassion Creates Change Nigeria, was fulfilled during this trip. The power of the Lord was really on display.”
Dr. Nick Ezeh, General Overseer of Christ for the World Mission, who was one of Kathy’s students in 2004, could not come across the country to Badagry during the week, but suggested the idea of Compassion Sunday to raise money for the project. He had his churches take up an offering, and delivered that money to Charismatic Renewal Ministries, our anchor partner, to help underwrite the cost of the building construction. 4 churches in Nigeria and 2 churches in the US responded to Nick call of support and made contributions on Compassion Sunday.
“This is such a great lesson for us all to observe. I was asked to join the team in Badagry but could not. But I did what I could do. How often are we asked to do something we cannot do it and leave it at that? We are all called to do what we can do, as in the Bible story of the “The Widow’s Two Mites” in Luke 21:1-4.”
If the stories of engagement, transformation and growth speak to you, consider joining us on one of our future trips:
“Stake Holders” visit to Nigeria: This trip is designed to introduce leaders from both countries, the US and Nigeria. In addition to getting to know one another, we discuss and plan upcoming mission trips. This is a small group experience consisting of 8-12 participants from each country during January.
“Mission Trips” to Nigeria: Mission trips offer an opportunity for transformation, mission labor and evangelism. The mission team is made up of people from various churches, backgrounds, and varying skills. Some of the desired skills are medical, construction, leadership, and financial/vocational training. Mission trips typically are planned for early March before the rainy season begins. Our trip for 2015 is scheduled for March 6-17.
“Special Trips” can occur any time a group has interest, means and motivation to travel abroad to help our efforts. This could be a special mission trip, a business introductory trip or educational trip. Since 2004, Kathy has developed relationships that can be leveraged for the greater good.
Bishop Sam (video below), who spent the entire week serving with our American team, endeared himself deeply with all of us, by his Christ-like attitude of servant leadership. Here is just a short excerpt of what he shared.
“It was a life transforming trip because of the unity and bond that was created by all the churches working in harmony. In all my years of ministry, this is the first time I saw different denominational pastors working together to achieve a common goal without asking what is in this for me and my church. The vision that Kathy gave us and taught us over time, which then played out through Compassion Creates Change Nigeria, was fulfilled during this trip. The power of the Lord was really on display.”
Dr. Nick Ezeh, General Overseer of Christ for the World Mission, who was one of Kathy’s students in 2004, could not come across the country to Badagry during the week, but suggested the idea of Compassion Sunday to raise money for the project. He had his churches take up an offering, and delivered that money to Charismatic Renewal Ministries, our anchor partner, to help underwrite the cost of the building construction. 4 churches in Nigeria and 2 churches in the US responded to Nick call of support and made contributions on Compassion Sunday.
“This is such a great lesson for us all to observe. I was asked to join the team in Badagry but could not. But I did what I could do. How often are we asked to do something we cannot do it and leave it at that? We are all called to do what we can do, as in the Bible story of the “The Widow’s Two Mites” in Luke 21:1-4.”
If the stories of engagement, transformation and growth speak to you, consider joining us on one of our future trips:
“Stake Holders” visit to Nigeria: This trip is designed to introduce leaders from both countries, the US and Nigeria. In addition to getting to know one another, we discuss and plan upcoming mission trips. This is a small group experience consisting of 8-12 participants from each country during January.
“Mission Trips” to Nigeria: Mission trips offer an opportunity for transformation, mission labor and evangelism. The mission team is made up of people from various churches, backgrounds, and varying skills. Some of the desired skills are medical, construction, leadership, and financial/vocational training. Mission trips typically are planned for early March before the rainy season begins. Our trip for 2015 is scheduled for March 6-17.
“Special Trips” can occur any time a group has interest, means and motivation to travel abroad to help our efforts. This could be a special mission trip, a business introductory trip or educational trip. Since 2004, Kathy has developed relationships that can be leveraged for the greater good.
Opening Ceremony for the Badagry Mission in March 2014
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VIDEO: Bishop Sam spoke at Hope Fellowship’s Numana work day.
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NIGERIA
May 2014
By now everyone has heard of Boko Haram and the kidnapping of the school girls in Northern Nigeria. We join with our Nigerian friends in praying for their safe return.
Though this Northern part of predominantly Muslim Nigeria is very far from Badagry, our anchor partner, Charismatic Renewal Ministries (CRM) and Missions Aid International (MAI) are directly affected. In 2006, we visited a village in that region where the girls were kidnapped. This village had resisted the Islamic leadership, thus isolating themselves from all civil services, but they were basically left alone. CRM/MAI helped them by starting and staffing a school, built a church, trained villagers vocationally, secured better water, and many became believers.
With the increase though in extremist activity, there is always fear that such a village could become a target for the radicals. As our friends know who work in the north, there can be a price to pay for faithfulness to Jesus Christ.
Just as the families of those girls in Chibok desperately want them to go to school, the same holds true in Badagry. So many families want their children to receive a first class education, yet cannot afford it.
CRM operates an award winning school in Owerri, training its students for academic, vocational, civic and spiritual leadership for their communities and the nation. A large group of those young people plus others from ministry partners worked and interacted with us in March, and they were tremendously impressive.
This new school in Badagry will have the same standards. Students will be equipped holistically to live for Christ in a pluralistic society where their ideals are being challenged on many fronts.
CRM has already planted a new church in that temporary structure, following up on many of those who gave their lives to Christ. Your donation today will help our partnership complete the first phase of the campus. This will allow us to begin accepting students, the church to have a permanent structure for meeting, and the medical clinic to have space to see patients. Cosmas and his team are working so hard to get this done.
Though this Northern part of predominantly Muslim Nigeria is very far from Badagry, our anchor partner, Charismatic Renewal Ministries (CRM) and Missions Aid International (MAI) are directly affected. In 2006, we visited a village in that region where the girls were kidnapped. This village had resisted the Islamic leadership, thus isolating themselves from all civil services, but they were basically left alone. CRM/MAI helped them by starting and staffing a school, built a church, trained villagers vocationally, secured better water, and many became believers.
With the increase though in extremist activity, there is always fear that such a village could become a target for the radicals. As our friends know who work in the north, there can be a price to pay for faithfulness to Jesus Christ.
Just as the families of those girls in Chibok desperately want them to go to school, the same holds true in Badagry. So many families want their children to receive a first class education, yet cannot afford it.
CRM operates an award winning school in Owerri, training its students for academic, vocational, civic and spiritual leadership for their communities and the nation. A large group of those young people plus others from ministry partners worked and interacted with us in March, and they were tremendously impressive.
This new school in Badagry will have the same standards. Students will be equipped holistically to live for Christ in a pluralistic society where their ideals are being challenged on many fronts.
CRM has already planted a new church in that temporary structure, following up on many of those who gave their lives to Christ. Your donation today will help our partnership complete the first phase of the campus. This will allow us to begin accepting students, the church to have a permanent structure for meeting, and the medical clinic to have space to see patients. Cosmas and his team are working so hard to get this done.
A STORY OF GOD'S TRANSFORMING LOVE
April 2014
“From Him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” Ephesians 4:16
The Apostle Paul’s passionate plea for unity was on full display in Badagry Nigeria, March 15-23, as the Compassion Creates Change Nigeria team ministered to 2000+ people. 6 churches were represented by the 17 Americans, and 200+ Nigerians participated from 10 churches; Anglican, Baptist, Charismatic Catholic, and Pentecostal, plus 5 NGO’s. CCCN’s anchor partner, Charismatic Renewal Ministries (CRM) and Mission Aid International (MAI) served with amazing humility and love.
Our U.S. Team had the privilege to join our Nigerian brethren as we spread out across Badagry, providing quality medical care, financial and vocational training, construction work on the campus for the school, church, medical clinic and Aquaponics project, plus evangelism and nightly crusades. In addition, the weather forecast all week was rain, each day. It stopped raining the day we arrived, and held off until the day we left! Thank you Lord.
The Apostle Paul’s passionate plea for unity was on full display in Badagry Nigeria, March 15-23, as the Compassion Creates Change Nigeria team ministered to 2000+ people. 6 churches were represented by the 17 Americans, and 200+ Nigerians participated from 10 churches; Anglican, Baptist, Charismatic Catholic, and Pentecostal, plus 5 NGO’s. CCCN’s anchor partner, Charismatic Renewal Ministries (CRM) and Mission Aid International (MAI) served with amazing humility and love.
Our U.S. Team had the privilege to join our Nigerian brethren as we spread out across Badagry, providing quality medical care, financial and vocational training, construction work on the campus for the school, church, medical clinic and Aquaponics project, plus evangelism and nightly crusades. In addition, the weather forecast all week was rain, each day. It stopped raining the day we arrived, and held off until the day we left! Thank you Lord.
It was a transformational 9 days for the American and Nigerian teams, who worked together in spectacular harmony. Members from both countries expressed clearly how this unified effort was a new and impactful experience. Together, we saw God use the teams in a powerful way to touch thousands of lives in Badagry. This was a great beginning but there is so much more to do.
GOOD FRIDAY
April 2014
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“While they were still talking about this, Jesus himself stood among them and said to them, ‘Why are you troubled and why do doubts rise in your minds? Look at my hands and my feet. It is I myself! Touch me and see, a ghost does not have flesh and bones, as you see I have.’ When he had said this, he showed them his hands and feet.” Luke 24: 36-40
Having recently returned from the mission trip to Nigeria, where we saw the power of the resurrected Christ affect the lives of thousands of people, we pause to give God thanks for this Easter weekend. Over 750 people made professions of faith, and scores of others were ministered to by our joint Nigerian/American team. Please look for our report on the trip next week. On this Good Friday, we send you Easter greetings and give thanks to our many friends who pray for us, and stand with us. We hope this season of joy will be especially dear for you, your families and loved ones. |
INVESTING IN AFRICA
March 2014
As Friday March 14th approaches, and our team prepares to leave for Nigeria, we thought you would appreciate a story about Leadership Development and how an investment in others continues into the next generation. At the heart of all we do at Compassion Creates Change Nigeria, we desire that people come to know Jesus Christ and make disciples who will serve God, others and their communities.
“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others”. 2 Timothy 2:2
“And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others”. 2 Timothy 2:2
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Marc Vilfordi, a Dallas estate planning attorney, first came to Voice of Hope to volunteer in 1989, thus beginning a 25 year journey working with Kathy. As 2 Timothy states above, she entrusted many years in Marc, who has in turn done the same for numerous young people in his church and the community. Now, he has embarked on a new mission as an integral part of the CCC Nigeria leadership team, and is bringing two of his mentees, on the March trip. The young men will help build the wall for the school and participate in the children’s outreach program. Marc will co-lead a vocational workshop with Eric Igahlo, a businessman and CCC Nigeria local partner who is deeply committed to youth and leadership development, and also leads Change Makers Africa.
According to the Christian Community Development Association, an organization where Kathy was a founding board member, “the primary goal of leadership development is to restore the stabilizing glue and fill the vacuum of moral, spiritual, and economic leadership that is so prevalent in poor communities by developing leaders. This is most effectively done by raising up Christian leaders from the community of need who will remain in the community to live and lead.”
AFRICA CATARACTS AND EYE FOUNDATION JOINS NIGERIA MISSION
February 2014
In our February 24th newsletter, we shared details about the upcoming Nigeria mission trip, and particularly the Aquaponics project, which will provide a sustainable food source for the school and property, with fish and vegetables. We are also excited because the Lord has provided medical teams who will join us in our mission.
WHO IS ACEF?
Africa Cataracts and Eye Foundation (ACEF), led by a wonderful Christian surgeon, Dr. Mejuya Okorodudu, will travel across the country from Delta State with a medical team of 6 and a mobile clinic. ACEF normally works in the Niger Delta region, and by partnering with CCC Nigeria, these services are being introduced to the Lagos state for the first time. ACEF will be performing eye screenings on at least 200 children and adults, and scheduling cataract surgery for those who qualify. The medical team’s travel expenses are being covered by one of our Nigerian partners and the team is donating their time and talents for free. This leaves a few expenses still to be covered: Surgery related expenses, medicine and eyeglasses.
WHO IS ACEF?
Africa Cataracts and Eye Foundation (ACEF), led by a wonderful Christian surgeon, Dr. Mejuya Okorodudu, will travel across the country from Delta State with a medical team of 6 and a mobile clinic. ACEF normally works in the Niger Delta region, and by partnering with CCC Nigeria, these services are being introduced to the Lagos state for the first time. ACEF will be performing eye screenings on at least 200 children and adults, and scheduling cataract surgery for those who qualify. The medical team’s travel expenses are being covered by one of our Nigerian partners and the team is donating their time and talents for free. This leaves a few expenses still to be covered: Surgery related expenses, medicine and eyeglasses.
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ABOVE: In addition to eye care, we will have three other Nigerian medical teams with doctors and nurses, set up in our partner churches in Badagry, providing medical services to the community and sharing the good news of Jesus Christ by word and deed.
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The Aquaponics, medical services, vocational training, outreach to youth, prisons and orphanages, and the construction work are all happening because various churches and NGO’s in Nigeria and America have joined with CCC Nigeria. We have all chosen to work in harmony to establish a permanent Transformation Engagement Center and thus fulfill the prayer of Jesus in John 17:20-21: “I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message, that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.”
Thank you for your prayers of support and encouragement.
Thank you for your prayers of support and encouragement.