Hope

Romans 12:2 "Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God-what is good and acceptable and perfect."

In 2013, Sheridan celebrated Christmas as a congregation by giving $48,000 to our sister congregation Karanzi Lutheran Church in Tanzania. The financial gift empowered the Karanzi community to build an English speaking elementary school for their children. It is the first of its kind - in their human history.

Our mission team from Sheridan traveled to Karanzi this past Sunday to join in the celebration of dedicating the building to the glory of God, the children, community and their future.

The drive bumped along with winding roads. But when we reached Karanzi, the place was hopping. There were kids everywhere, proud parents, community leaders and pastors from the  Northern Diocese of Tanzania. They were so happy to see us and we were happy to see them. This is the day The Lord has made, let us rejoice and be glad in it!

We started with the dedication of the school building. Bishop Shao led the procession. The brass band played. The pastors from Tanzania and the US read scripture. Ribbons were ceremoniously cut. Smiles filled faces. The children from Karanzi had their school uniforms on and stood in lines, smiling at what was for them- a new school!

From there, we had worship for hours. The speakers included, Pastor Greg, Bishop Shao, Pastor Joshua of the Karanzi parish, Compassion International leaders, a government official for this region of Tanzania. Everyone brought a vision for what God was/is doing for this community. There were hopes, dreams and a preferred future. There was encouragement for accomplishments and prophetic words for what needs to change. 

My 'God-moment' was seeing how this school is changing an entire community-not just the children enrolled in the school. For this community, speaking English opens their world to commerce, education and relationships beyond themselves. The spirit of hopefulness is upon the community of Karanzi. If I can convey anything to you as you read this, know that God's spirit through our Christmas gift 2+ years ago is alive! 

I look forward to seeing what God's future is for the people of Karanzi. I am thankful that we get to be a part of it!