Tanzania Update: Spring 2016

Recently a number of churches in the Northwest Diocese were damaged by radical non-Christian arsonists. The damage done to these buildings comes to approximately $12,000. Our Tanzania committee has been in contact with Bishop Abednego Keshomshahara to learn more about this tragedy and to let him know of our concern as well as to see if we might be of some assistance.

We believe that it would be a Christ-like gesture of support on our part to raise the $12,000 needed to cover the cost of repairing these churches. Christian churches and believers are under attack in so many places in our world today. We know that we cannot do everything, but here is a fine opportunity to do something in support of our brothers and sisters in Christ.

Contributions from individuals and congregations can be sent to the Metropolitan New York Synod and marked as 'Gifts for Tanzanian Church Buildings.' You can also make a secure online donation here. Asante sana!

Strengthening our companionship

At our 2016 Synod Assembly, we will be welcoming Rev. Dr. Abednego Keshomshahara, Bishop of the Northwest Diocese and Rev. Elmeleck Kigembe, General Secretary of the Northwest Diocese.

Bishop Keshomshahara will preach at one of our daily eucharists and both will be present for a workshop hosted by the Tanzania Companionship Committee. We will also present to them what has been collected in response to the church burnings in Tanzania.

Could you be the next KEMPS teacher?

If you're a teacher who loves new experiences that involve children and travel, we are looking for you! Kibeta English Medium Primary School (KEMPS) in Bukoba, Tanzania, is supported by the Metropolitan New York Synod. We are searching for elementary teachers willing to spend two years modeling English, teaching a variety of subjects and open to living in a new environment.

Transportation, housing in Tanzania, health care coverage, and a small stipend are included. Our current teachers, Michelle and Trevor, will be returning to the United States soon. Please share the video or bulletin insert with teachers you know! For more information and an application, contact Pr. Perucy Butiku, Assistant to the Bishop for Multicultural and Global Mission, at [email protected].

Follow the journey

Stay up to date with what is happening with Michelle and Trevor's last few months teaching at KEMPS through their blog. You'll see them visiting their friend in the village of Katom and their holidays in South Africa before starting a new school year. You can also see how the new school year started off and their recent visit to the Post Office.