INTERNATIONAL FELLOWSHIP OF EVANGELICAL STUDENTS

SPAN
Issue 1 June 2012
in Africa who are the future leaders. The Church will overcome not by bombs, guns, and machetes but by LOVE, righteous living, faithful prayer and proactive steps in advocacy as she seeks to live out godliness in the society, promote justice and stand up to fight corruption and bad governance. In the two Sudans, celebrations over the peaceful separation of the new Republic of South Sudan from the north were cut short after only 8 months. The drumbeats of war re-echoed with the vibrating sounds heard and impact felt well beyond the Continent. How can students in Africa's Universities become harbingers of peace and agents of social transformation through the powerful message of love and forgiveness which are at the very heart of the goodnews? I was deeply encouraged when 14 bishops: Catholic and Protestant, along with the Anglican Archbishop of York in the UK, recently signed a press statement urging peaceful means in the resolution of the crisis between the two Sudans. Earlier, the IFES students in Juba (FOCUS) held a peace rally in the University of Juba and promoting a peace agenda. In December 2011 and February 2012, the IFESEPSA Regional Office working together with NIFES, Nigeria and 10 other collaborating bodies, three of which are Muslim groups, held peace gatherings in communities where Muslims and Christians live together. At the first Peace Forum, Christian and Muslim University and College students pledged to work together for peace on their campuses. Later the Regional Office convened a top-level Peace Forum of senior Christian leaders and Muslim Sheiks and clerics. The search for peace may be long and arduous, yet, this is the honourable path IFES has chosen, in keeping with Christ's declaration: 'Blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called the sons of God.' Matt 5:9 (ESV)

International Fellowship of Evangelical Students In English and Portuguese speaking Africa

Reflecting Christ's Love

In Hate-Filled Corners of the Globe
F.B. Meyer said: "In its deepest sense love is the perquisite of Christianity. To feel towards enemies what others feel towards friends . . . to be always the same, not subject to moods or fantasies or whims . . . to rejoice with the truth . . ."
e live in an increasingly difficult time where demonstrating Christ's love to one's 'enemy' is not as easy as it sounds. In fact, it is much harder to do so now than ever before. Yet, this is what our Lord and Master, Jesus Christ, demands of us as His faithful disciples Luke 6:27. Without the help of the Holy Spirit it is not possible to love one's enemy. This kind of love is divine and Spirit-inspired. It is uncommon, love without any preconditions. The world is used to those who fight back but stunned by those who show love even when wrongfully mistreated. The world is more at home with the principle of retaliation but Jesus reveals a secret of conquering the world using God's weaponry LOVE! From the Al-Shabaab terrorist group in Kenya to the Boko Haram in Nigeria, Christians and their places of worship have become targets of bombs and gun attacks. Boko Haram has left no one in doubt of their ultimate desire to see Shariah law implemented in full. They bomb places of worship, kill Christians and Muslims and also attack the secular government of Nigeria and its symbols. Western education is detested and even seen as cursed, hence Boko Haram forbids it yet ironically they use western technology to perpetuate their acts of terror. Thus, the University, a major centre of learning has become a target of attacks with the first ever in a University campus on April 29th in Kano, Nigeria. In Mali, Tuareg rebels with the help of Al-Qaeda in the Maghreb, have taken over the Northern part of Mali, in French speaking Africa. Churches and Christian homes have been vandalized. Also, Missionaries, Christian students and church workers have all been sacked from Gao. Christians are now the target of hate crimes in some parts of the globe where selective killings are taking place. Still, Jesus calls us to love in return for hate, forgive instead of retaliate, and make peace in place of war. IFES is committed to preaching and teaching these noble ideals as part of her desire to promote peaceful-coexistence among students

Gideon Para-Mallam Regional Secretary

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Peace Makers
In Juba University
uba University Bible Study Association (JUBSA), is one of the oldest Christian Association with strong participation in the foundation of FOCUS Sudan. It has produced many great men and women of God in different positions in life in the new born South Sudan and Sudan. In March 2012, in a football (Soccer) match between students of Equatoria State and Greater Bahr Algazal; two players had a disagreement leading to a fight. Unfortunately, the fight assumed ethnic nature leading to injury of some students. The Police intervened. This incidence resulted in the consequent indefinite closure of the university. At the time of writing this story, it is still not known when the school will re-open. JUBSA was led by God's Spirit initiate reconciliatory efforts between the two groups. The uniqueness of the membership of JUBSA is that members are from different tribes but are one in Jesus Christ. Secondly they are accepted among the two parties in the conflict, making them the right group to mediate and bring reconciliation in the university. They formed a committee that started meeting with the different groups in the conflict, in collaboration with the university administration, and the students union. They have reached an advance stage of ending these conflicts using the Biblical principles of reconciliation. We praise God for such an initiative which reflects the Christ is in us as the Prince of Peace and as He who has called us to be peace makers. Join us to pray that many Christian unions in our different campuses in South Sudan and Sudan will continue to play such roles of bringing peace and harmony among students from different tribes and ethnic groups.

East Africa Sub-Region

Walk in Light and Truth!
An echo from the Discipleship Training Seminar 2012 of Tanzania Fellowship of Evangelical Students (TAFES) Rex Onuh, Acting National Director

7 Regions, 4 Days, 1,625 students, 79 associates & 4 New converts . . .!

t one of the 7 cities where the conferences held simultaneously, IFES-EPSA Regional Secretary Revd Gideon Para-Mallam expounded on the Conference theme: 'Walking in Light and Truth' at the DTS held in Dar Es Salam. 622 delegates including students, associates and other visitors attended. The seminar took place at the Baobab Secondary School, Bagamoyo. On the last day, the theme Expositor emphasized on false teaching and prosperity gospel which has penetrated the society and the students' community as well. According to him, this has diverted people from the truth of the gospel. Over 200 participants responded to the altar call, while 25 people met with him for one-on-one counseling and prayers. Neighbours were impacted by the seminar too. A M u s l i m t e a c h e r testified through a handwritten letter that she experienced G o d ' s presence during a Praise and Worship session. She declared, "Indeed you people have a true living God". Testimony from Student after TAFES DTS My name is SETIEL ELIBARIKI, a first year degree student in Environmental Health Science at the Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Science located at Dar-es-Salaam city in Tanzania. I thank God for what He did for me at the DTS seminar through His servant, Uncle Gideon ParaMallam. I had problem with sexual lust but

Joseph Noel General Secretary

FOCUS South Sudan

My Maiden Visit to Nigeria Abraham Waigi, a Kenyan PhD Student from Akrofi- Christaller Institute - Ghana When my application for funds to travel to Ibadan, the first university city in Nigeria, and the second in Africa, was approved, I was, to say the least, anxious and unsure of what to expect. Providentially, my Nigerian colleague and friend, Femi Adeleye, was travelling with me. Simon, a very good friend of Femi and a 'NIFES' man, had been waiting for us at the Murtalla Muhammad International Airport, Lagos, when we landed. He promptly picked us up and drove us into Lagos.
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through His servant - who was the main expositor at the seminar, I have overcome this. The personal devotion seminar helped me to draw near to God through Bible reading and prayer. I have also overcome stage fright and have joined the praise and worship team. Lastly, DTS was a huge blessing to me and I don't think I would ever miss subsequent ones even after I become an associate. MWANZA: 140 students and 8 associates gathered at Kassa Charity School to be taught by the Father through different ministers. Joan Wanjiru, TAFES Staff took the participants through the t h e m e "Walking in the light and truth". Football Team It was such a Courtesy of DTS Mwanza at Kassa Charity transforming time! 2 Students gave their lives to Christ during the seminar. One student said "DTS days should be increased. It was too short" Other topics taught were: Praise and worship as a tool of evangelism, the position of the church in the nation, inductive bible study, among others. TAFES Students taking time off for sports and relaxation during the Discipleship Training.

Living Stones in the

Marketplace
Focus Kenya Prepares Graduates to reposition the Church Simon Masibo & Ngugi Kimani (Associate Director) FOCUS Kenya, General Secretary ver 100 Kenyan graduates (associates) and their children held their annual Easter retreat on the slopes of Mount Kilimanjaro at the Uhuru Lutheran Hotel Moshi, Tanzania between Friday 6th April, and Monday 9th April, 2012. The Theme of the retreat was "Repositioning the Church". Delegates focused on what the Church in Kenya should do to regain its prophetic voice, authority and respect by the government and society at large. They also discussed the socio-economic and political spheres and possible responses to the challenges they pose to Christians in Kenya.

Bible Expositions on the topic "living under the Cross" were facilitated by Rev. Calisto Odede, Senior Pastor at Nairobi Pentecostal Church (NPC) Karen Church (CITAM) and a former Associate Regional Secretary EPSA Eastern Africa sub-region. In addition to the useful reflections detailed above, the retreat offered delegates an opportunity for networking, relaxation and having fun with family and friends. The opening ceremony was attended by Revd Gideon Para-Mallam, the Regional Secretary. He shared on the strategic role that graduates play in Student Ministry of IFES movements especially some of the ideas from the Living Stones vision Strategic Priority 3. He challenged the graduates to take up their rightful place in society and to engage in mentorship program for both students and the young graduates. Mr. Fred Ojiambo a top level constitutional lawyer focused mainly on the implications of Kenya's new constitution on Kenyan society and on Christians. He reminded the delegates that the issues that made the Kenyan Church reject the new constitution during the process of enactment are still largely unaddressed. Another Speaker Rev. Calisto Odede reminded the delegates that the message of the Cross is one of salvation, redemption, forgiveness, victory, and hope to the suffering. This message calls for a response from people. There is a need to take a position on the Cross. Like Paul said "I chose to know Jesus Christ and Him crucified." Mrs. Anne Mbugua's sharing on the Church's engagement with society with respect to the forthcoming national general elections in Kenya centered on the need for the Church to first set its house in order for it to regain its position as the light and salt of society. Another Speaker Dr. Julius Muia created a sober mood as he highlighted - through facts and figures - the challenge of the slow economic growth ushered by the 2007/8 post election violence. In most global indices Kenya is ranked

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in the worst 25%. He stressed that one of the main contributors to the slow economic growth is our huge import bill that continues to weaken the Kenya currency. He challenged the delegates to do the following: Be part of the change, not a passenger Understand the country's National Values and Principles of Governance Practice ethical values at family, Church, business, government levels
Demand ethical behaviour at various levels: family, Church, business, government. Invest in academic and vocational education of self and the family Understand government operations, plans, programmes etc Develop Church as centers of Social engineering and Moral Excellence-Mentorship, Career among others.

GO AS FAITHFUL
Witness to the Nations!
The Story of FOCUS Kenya Commission 2011
ommission 2011 was the eighth conference coming up 23 years after the first Commission conference in 1988. It took place at Kabarak University in Nakuru, from 28th December 2011 to 3rd January 2012 and brought together 2500 people from 19 countries (Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Sudan, Malawi, Nigeria, Ghana, Namibia, South Africa, Norway, New Zealand, Congo, Burundi, Brazil, United Kingdom and USA) comprising of a very nice mix of students and professionals, young and old, from across cultures. The theme for Commission 2011 "Called to be Faithful Witnesses" was expounded through Bible expositions, seminars and the Bible study sessions. We are glad that the voice of the Lord was heard by the delegates at Commission 2011. As delegates listened to God through his servants, they sought counsel, prayers and mentorship opportunities. We are glad that Commission 2011

offered these services through the Follow-Up desk. The exhibitors: 23 in number, representing Mission agencies, Theological institutions, Translation ministries, Children organizations, etc. 1663 (or 66.5% of the) delegates made written commitment to be involved in missions. Our task now is to follow through these commitments and create a community of people involved in world missions. Some Testimonies: Karuitha Miriam (March 2012) "Commission 2011 was a changing point in my life.God has been so gracious since commission 2011 and I have seen Him answer almost if not all the prayers I made in the commission on New Year eve. I have many testimonies of what God has done since then. One is the courage to stand before fellow students and preach, which I gained after commission. Second, the desire to read the word of God more and more and seek His will increased. The desire to learn and reach out to others (oneon-one evangelism) and follow-up was ignited. Lastly, a forgiving heart, which I have longed for, since childhood. Now, I find joy in forgiving others and not having grudges and many more I will soon be finishing undergraduate studies and I will not be going for a job immediately. I'll be attending Campus annual Mission from14th-22nd April and I hope to go wherever God will lead me for the next 5 months."

Okada Ride My first Okada (motorbike) ride, something I had dreaded, happened on Saturday, my third day in Nigeria. I took a deep breath and bravely waved at one that I thought looked new'ish. I dutifully lowered myself on the seat behind the rider and, accordingly rested my feet. He asked if I was ok and I said I thought I was. The deep-seated fear soon appeared to have been unfounded. My motor-powered two-wheel 'taxi' navigated very carefully through traffic and braked smoothly whenever we needed to slow or swerve. Halfway through my journey, I found myself enjoying the breeze on my face and the wind in my 'sails'
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Momanyi Geoffrey (Graduate), "I thank God for giving me a chance to attend Commission 2011. I was greatly challenged and I am reaching out to children. I have seen God transform the lives of many children and their parents as well. I have also been holding public debates with our Muslim brothers and they are bearing a lot of fruits since many have been convinced and I trust God they will come to the knowledge of our SaviourHelp me: I need more materials on Islam."
FOCUS Mulago Child Development Center Project, Uganda Audrey Karuhanga, Program Director

Creative INFLUENCE!
The Fruit of the 2011 World Assembly In Ethiopia by Zelalem Abebe, EvaSue G.S ll Evangelical Students Leaders from Fellowships in and around Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, gathered for a week of retreat, and to rest after a busy semester. The Annual Addis Ababa Region Student Leaders Retreat took place from 13th to 17th of February, 2012. A student bazaar was one of the important aspects of this event; the students were grouped according to their areas of interest to work on mini projects that they would be able to launch when they go back to their campuses. This was executed according to the experience gained from the 2011 IFES World Assembly. We are grateful that we were exposed to The World Assembly encounter; it means a lot to us.
Testimonies from the bazaar include the following:

e continue to support 197 poor families in the community by helping them to provide their children with formal and informal education, spiritual and behavioural development, social and interaction skills, medical treatment and physical well being (food) as well as addressing health and hygiene issues. 'Parents' under support have been mobilized into several categories. One group was trained and it has a demonstration garden on mushroom growing at the project while another is mobilized to make baskets. Two other groups were started this year in saving groups. Trainings will continue to be held throughout the year to strengthen families' ability to support themselves. Children were sensitized and taught on basic health care and hygiene at least three times every month. Medical treatment was given to children in form of first aid treatment at the centre and more serious cases were referred to Mulago hospital and Bethesda clinic. Prescribed drugs were bought to ensure that children remained healthy. Food was distributed to very needy families as planned and food supplements were given to those children and parents who were particularly sick or poor. Parents and caregivers were taught about health and hygiene during parents' meetings on 21st April. Health screening was done for all the children as planned and findings discussed with parents. Networking and Advocacy: We aim to establish and strengthen our public relations, government collaboration, and advocacy initiatives. To this end, we held a sensitization workshop at the FOCUS premises on 24th March for some government officials and community members. The meeting was successful and appreciated by all. Participants requested for mega phones, wheel barrows, spades, gloves, gum boots, rain coats, and forks to help with community clean ups; as well training on tuberculosis (TB). They also appreciated FOCUS' care and support for children and families in the community and requested that this continue. We aim to improve government collaborations with Kampala City Authority's department of Gender and Community Development as well as the Ministry of Gender, Labor and Community Development.

"To me, the bazaar was very interesting. As a participant in the mini-project, 'Christian and Politics', I am really grateful that I'm delivered from being focused on only short term services instead of also offering long term service, as a fellowship leader and as a citizen. I also learnt how to express my feelings and thoughts; it has shown me that I can be creative enough to express what I think and plan."
Indigenous Food ('fish') Tim Ofoha, NIFESStaff came around to take me to a joint where they served real Yoruba dishes. Within no time, our order arrived. It turned out to be Cat Fish, cooked in a richly peppered soup. It tasted delicious. I had eaten Cat Fish before, but this one was tantalizingly superior. I asked Tim what he thought was different and he answered promptly, It is fresh Cat Fish. They are delivered alive and kept so in buckets of water, so that you could literally ask to
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Fund Raising Strategy from ABEMO During the Students Graduates Integration Consultation that held in Gaborone Botswana (27th31st October 2011) nine (9) members from ABEMO attended the event. We would like to share the strategy we used to raise funds to attend this event. FIRST PROCEDURE 1. We prayed and individually challenged our Christians friends, non-Christians, Professional to support financially. 2. We had a lunch where student made traditional meals. The main purpose was to fund raise. It was done as a group. OUR STRATEGY We made invitation Cards and sold them, this invitation card was to a lunch. Each of us contributed some money to prepare the meals. Another objective this lunch served aside Fund Raising was also to make known ABEMO activities to all our guests. We challenged guests to support our ministry, as a result of this, two (2) people are willing to support financially. We also preached the gospel to reach out to our non-Christian friends. In addition, we sold some Christian literature to get some funds to support this trip . THE OUTCOME We sold 40 tickets out of 60, although we did not achieve our goal in terms of sale of invitation cards, we praise God, for He drew people to support our movement Financially on a monthly basis. by : Adilson Bene, (Mission Secretary).
'catch' you own from the 'pond' before it is cooked for you. It is a disgrace, explained Tim, to serve 'fish' that is not fresh. Nobody will come back. Chapel Service and Prayer Having identified myself as a visitor during the main service at the University Chapel, I was invited together with a few others to a room at the back of the church hall. We were offered forms in which to fill our names etc. and tick relevant boxes according to our needs/intentions. I ticked the 'I would like to know God more box. At the end of this welcoming session, an elderly lady walked to me and said she wanted to pray with me. The moment she started praying, I sensed a presence so warm and peaceful. I felt lifted up, literally, and embraced in a cloud of joy. I did not want the prayer to end. I did not want to leave the room. You
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Southern Sub-Region
Sustaining Hope Amid Uncertainties
ZAFES Campus News Focus

When pressure mounts and all seems impossible, When all fails and all hope is lost, When no one takes responsibility and everyone decides to fold their hands, What can we do? No matter what stands on our way, we will never lose our focus. ZAFES is called to preach Jesus among Students And we will continue doing so amid challenges. For our sustaining hope is from God. Leadership Training The ZAFES Southern Region is holding Leadership Training session on campuses. The target is to equip 120 Student Leaders with leadership and Bible study skills before August 2012. The Student Leaders at LIBES will be having their training on May 19th 2012, while the Student Leaders in DALICE will have their own training on the 26th of May 2012. At these training, Kendele and George Lumina are the facilitators. Similar trainings were held in Lusaka region at the Chainama College of Health Sciences. Students in Rural Evangelism Students on the Copperbelt, participated in the Rural Evangelism program in Kafubu Depot, in Kalulushi from 17th to 19th February 2012. From Nkana, KCE and KITE Colleges of Education, 15 students participated. They were hosted by the Pentecostal Assemblies of God, Kafubu Depot Church and the Union Baptist Church. The contact personnel was the senior pastor of PAOG, Chaplain Richard Lombe. They preached the Gospel and prayed with the residents of the area. From Chati High School, 16 youths gave their lives to the Lord. Also an old lady who was practicing witchcraft was prayed for and she gave her life to Christ. She later testified to being free of the bondage she was in. The experience of the deliverance much more encouraged the students to preach Christ, pray for the sick and those with different needs. The chaplain also invited ZAFES to partner with the PAOG church to preach the gospel with them in the area. They have since written to us to be part of them from 1st to 3rd June 2012 when they will be hosting a crusade.Chilangwa Simusokwe-ZAFES Admin Staff

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Mentorship for Transformation
S-GIC, Botswana 2011 Joseph Morenammele, Mukului Ncube & Lucy Amromanoh One of the key areas in the Living Stones IFES vision to 2020 is the Student-Graduate Integration Consultation aimed at a conscious lifelong discipleship process.
The first Student-Graduate Integration Consultation (S-GIC) took place in Botswana at the Catholic Retreat Centre in Gaborone from 27th 31st October, 2011. It was a life transforming consultation. It attracted 107 participants comprising of students and Graduates from the 10 National Movements in the South. They are; Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe as well as some graduate delegates from some countries outside the Southern sub-region, such as Ghana, Nigeria and the United States of America. The goal of S-GIC is to allow over time the systematic and intentional development of mentoring relationships between older graduates and students. Due to the immense need for mentorship in this twenty first century, the 2011 S-GIC for the South, was tagged 'Mentoring For Transformation' with a central Text from 2Timothy 2:2. At the consultation, the Regional Secretary, Gideon Para-Mallam shared exhaustively on the IFES Vision to 2020 such that the participants understood it better and embraced it. Emphasis was laid on the Strategic Priority 3 (SP3) Area of the Vision which is on the relationship of students and graduates in their given contexts. Other highlights were: Devotions: Each day commenced with corporate Worship, Prayer and devotion. It was a time of real spiritual nourishment from the word of God with joyful praises which mirrored our rich diverse culture. The devotional bible readings were taken by George Taban, Emmanuel Ahiljah and Graciano Jamba respectively. Mentorship Groups: This was the most unique session in the consultation, as participants gathered in smaller groups to be mentored. Graduates mentored Students and Younger graduates as well, while the Graduates learnt things from the students as well. Testimonies: Associates from different countries were able to share their testimonies of God's faithfulness. This set the stage for the various discussions at the s m a l l mentorship groups. During t h e consultation, opportunities were given for Film show, sports and Recreation.

Post S-GIC Testimonies:

Tawanda Masango of Focus Zimbabwe, 'The need to ensure mentoring relationships in our movements was greatly emphasized. This really challenged me to think about FOCUS ministry in Zimbabwe and I realized that some of the challenges we face with continuity such as keeping in touch with graduates can be traced back to lack of mentoring relationships. The challenge to all participants to be leaders of integrity and be agents of change left me with a huge sense of responsibility. My prayer is that God will enable me to use these valuable lessons as I continue to serve Him in Zimbabwe.' 'The need to ensure mentoring relationships in our movements was greatly emphasized. This really challenged me to think about FOCUS ministry in Zimbabwe and I realized that some of the challenges we face with continuity such as keeping in touch with graduates can be traced back to lack of mentoring relationships. The challenge to all participants to be leaders of integrity and be agents of change left me with a huge sense of responsibility. My prayer is that God will enable me to use these valuable lessons as I continue to serve Him in Zimbabwe.' Wandile Sacolo of SWAFES Swaziland: 'Indeed it was a great weekend for us all. It challenged us as we do not have a graduate ministry. We were really encouraged to take

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It served as a platform for graduates to see how they can be involved in the active support of student ministry in diverse ways, especially, funding the work. The numerous supports from friends, associates and every stakeholder of this consultation made S-GIC 2011 a memorable event. The joy of the S-GIC program is that this is the first program that the region has been able to sponsor with 82% of the resources coming solely from Africa. Of the total income of 37,984.60 USD raised and expended, only 7,000 USD came from outside Africa. What has gladdened our hearts the more is the sheer display of responsibility and ownership between our Graduates, National Movements, Churches and the Region. We want to express deep appreciation to all friends and partners in the US, churches in Nigeria and Sudan, our Graduates in Southern Africa and West Africa, whose sacrificial giving made the event possible. Our gratitude too to the Associates from Africa and the U.S who were mentors and facilitators during the S-GIC. We want to urge all our Associates to avail themselves to mentor the students during future events, when called upon. Future S-GIC for Western and Eastern Regions: S-GIC for the Western Sub Region: 16th-20th August 2012, Accra Ghana S-GIC for the Eastern Sub Region: 10th-16th October 2012 in Dares-Salaam, Tanzania. Pray, Plan and Save to be there.

West Africa Sub-Region

The Gospel in

Students

the Hand of

MISSION AWARENESS CONFERENCE

ncouraging our students to live as a witnessing community on campus today has a number of challenges. After the first semester exams, 65 students from the Fellowship at Fourah Bay College withdrew to Lumpa to re-examine their evangelistic strategies on campus. Some of the ways they chose to reflect on their mission strategies on campus were panel discussion on trends in Missions, Morning sessions on Missions from Romans by the former GS, Rev. Francis L.T. Williams, Community outreaches, children's program and small group Bible studies. One very creative idea during this mission's awareness conference was 'Operation see what you can do.' It allowed Students to go into the community in the late afternoons and early evenings and join in any work they met the community people involved in. Some joined in cooking, fetching water, cleaning etc. "The idea was to build relationships through which we can share Christ's love and sacrifice. It was helpful in connecting and building lasting relationships. (and) not just raining down scriptures about salvation on people we don't know and might not meet again. This exercise helped us to see the weaknesses of our evangelistic activities on campus. We will now encourage building relationships with non-Christians on campus for the sake of Christ." Sylvanus Gooding, Missions Secretary, SLEFES FBC

Matthew T.S. Brima, SLAFES GS From 14th to 19th April 2012, 38 students from MMCE&T Milton Margai College of Education and Technology Congo Cross Campus in Freetown went on a Mission to Taiama to share the goodnews of Jesus Christ. They preached through film shows, evangelistic crusades in prison cells, hospital, engaged with people in the local market and homes. At the end, 305 people made commitments to follow Christ. For many students, this was their first opportunity to travel out of the city and for others, the first opportunity to preach the gospel. During this mission trip, the paramount Chief of the town, led our students to the grave site of the first missionaries who visited the town but were massacred. It was an emotional experience and at the grave site, students led prayers for the salvation of the people of Taiama. "My heart was touched by this site, reminding me of the sacrifice of many for the gospel. I was moved to make a commitment

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Equipping
Staff; Transforming
the Student
Testimonies of ISDT participants
The IFES-EPSA Institute of Staff Development Training (ISDT) is a leadership development platform for our staff members working among students in Universities and Colleges. The 2010/2011 session ran successfully with 23 participants from 14 National Movements in the participating region. It was eight weeks (8) of two summer sessions in Jos ECWA Theological Seminary (JETS), Jos, Nigeria. Among the 23 participants, 16 successfully returned in 2011 to complete the program while some moved on for other forms of training elsewhere. The 16 successful candidates will be awarded a Diploma in Theology by the JETS seminary at a graduation ceremony slated for December 2012. Here are some Testimonies from participants of the just concluded set: ISDT courses such as leadership development has improved my approach to leadership. The course on the living stones vision has done more good in helping me in my ministry to students at ICMB. I challenged the students to own the movement and be creative in repositioning it. Now, students have more room for creativity and participation. Regular visits and phone calls from them attest to the fact that they are at the forefront of the ICMB vision with great ideas and constructive suggestions. Furthermore, I used the knowledge gained from one of the ISDT courses, Contemporary Missions, and it was awesome! Two hundred and one people got saved in just a weekend. I am now developing small pamphlets to use for outreaches in my language (Setswana). Thanks to God for ISDT, we are planning another mission outreach and I am expecting more than we saw last year. Jacob O. Ramothudi, ICMB Botswana. (Jacob has just taken over leadership of the ICMB movement in Botswana). The skills I learnt at ISDT was very useful. Three months after I left Jos, Nigeria, I was assigned to lead TAFES after the National Director's transition. The Communication knowledge I gained from one of the courses has been so helpful. I maintain contact between the board, Management, staff members, student leaders and NIFES. Thanks be to God for the leadership class in 2010. I would say ISDT is a must for all IFES workers. Joan Wajiru, TAFES-Tanzania The Trainings I received at ISDT has really equipped me with relevant leadership skills. The period spent with my colleagues from different countries, exposed me to a better

Some ISDT Students (Staff Workers) from Gambia, Ethiopia and Ghana 2010/2011 Session.

understanding of the concept of team work and partnership in my role as the coordinator of the Social Response Unit of NIFES. It was in light of this that I was able to use these gains in ensuring that NIFES was invited to be part of the International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa (ICASA) which held in Ethiopia December 2011. Ojekunle Adetola, NIFES Nigeria Lucy Amromanoh reporting

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Steps Out In Search for
estive seasons seemed to have lost their meaning on the Plateau (A state in Nigeria where the Regional office is located) as the citizens of the state have lived in fear of one religiously, or ethnically induced crisis or another since December 2010. It was in a bid to address this, that the IFES-EPSA Regional Office working with other students' movements like Nigeria Fellowship of Evangelical Students (NIFES), Fellowship of Christian Students (FCS) and other groups (Ten groups in all: 3 Muslim groups, 1 Inter-Faith group 3 NGOs and 3 Christian groups) organized a Peace Forum and Peace Gatherings in Jos. The aim of the Initiative was to rebuild trust, and seek for reconciliation thereby ensuring a peaceful coexistence. The bomb blasts of 24th December 2010 claimed several lives and properties. During August 2011 Sallah celebrations in Jos, violence erupted at a Muslim praying ground located in a Christian dominated area which also claimed more lives and properties. To deal practically with these challenges, a Peace Forum was organized on Thursday, 8th December 2011 at the Hill Station Hotel, Jos. It brought together over 350 people comprising of youths, women, Traditional & Religious leaders and other stake holders from ten strategic crises prone areas of Jos the state Capital. The Convener, Revd Gideon Para-Mallam, revealed
just knew God's presence was there in person, and this woman was speaking to Him face to face. This was a very special moment. Face to face with an Original Pyrate Prof Muyiwa Awe This day, my phone rings and on answering I am surprised that it is Prof Muyiwa Awe whom I have tried to reach previously. I cannot believe that a distinguished scholar of his calibre would, without any notice or formalities, grant me such an intimate interview. He offers me a copy of FOCEM NEWSLETTER. This particular one (Vol. 3. No. 1, January 2004), is on the very topic that I concerns my research how the Pyrates Confraternity started and its relationship with the confraternities in Universities campuses throughout Nigeria. Beyond Stereotypes: The true Image of Nigeria(ns) Stereotypes tend to overemphasize one aspect of a multi-faceted reality. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is right when she talks about The danger of One Story. This is how she puts it: The single story creates stereotypes, and the
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IFES-EPSA

PEACE

that the participants were mainly youth leaders from the identified flash points within the state. The Forum provided participants a chance to voice out their concerns to the elders present. Others in attendance at the meeting were: The representative of the Governor of Plateau State, Representative from the Special Military Task Force (STF), the Police, and Religious leaders. The Peace Gathering went beyond a centralized location, as different days were set aside to visit each of the crisis prone locations for Peace Gatherings. The result of the Peace Forum was evident as the people of Plateau state celebrated a relatively peaceful Christmas 2011 and entered into the New Year 2012 peacefully. On February 2nd, 2012 a strategic Peace and Security meeting held at the Hill Station Hotel in Jos. This Special Peace and Security meeting held in partnership with the then Special Task Force (STF) Military Commander, Major General Olayinka Akinyemi Oshinowo and top religious leaders: Bishops, Reverends, Sheiks and other Islamic Clerics. The Peace and Security meeting had about 38 people in attendance including other military Officers who discussed on issues pertaining to peace and security in Plateau state and the nation at large. The process of restoring and maintaining Peace and Security in the State is an on-going process. As believers we are called to seek peace even in the midst of wars. we will continue to play our role and trust God to work out the best for His name and glory, in the nations where He has placed us to be salt and light. Balarabe M. Usman, National Director NIFES

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Missions Conference Missions Conference IMPACT 2012 holds at the University of the West Indies, Kingston, Jamaica from July 15th -30th 2012. This will be the first of its kind for the Caribbean CARIFES, Region. Pease bring this historic event before the Lord in prayer. May God use this to raise a new level of mission's consciousness and involvement among our brothers and sisters in this region of the world known famously for its reggae bits. URBANA 2013 Inter Varsity USA and IVCF Canada organizes the Urbana Missions conference every 3-years. Over the years, Inter-Varsity has been gracious in providing scholarship to enable several IFES delegates attend Urbana. This year's Urbana is no different as they have provided $60,000 to support 40 delegates from IFES world-wide. This year's Urbana 2013 will hold from December 27th 31st, 2012 in St. Louis, MI, USA. Please we wish to urge intensive prayers for this noble vision for mission awareness and involvement. Two Ministries, One Home On 1st November 2011, IFES and UCCF (UK member movement) moved into the Blue Boar House, their new home in central Oxford. The new IFES International Service Centre address is No. 5, Blue Boar Street, Oxford, OX1 4EE. This move was the culmination of many years of prayer, planning and the fulfillment of a long held dream for both ministries. To celebrate this significant move, a special thanksgiving service will be held on Saturday 7th July 2012 .The office will be open from 3pm till 5:30pm and the service will start at 6pm at the St. Aldes Church which is just across the road. We pray and celebrate this move. Praise & Prayer South Pacific: IFES Movements in the South Pacific were

International News
due to hold their triennial regional conference in Fiji between 5th-9th April, 2012. Sadly, due to the extreme floods which have led to a state of emergency, the conference was cancelled. Please pray for PSFC Fiji as they consider rescheduling this important training event. Pray for the people of Fiji, for the relief work and for help to reach the communities affected by the floods. FES Malaysia @ 50: Give thanks to God for FES Malaysia as they celebrate their 50th anniversary as a movement! Pray for continued growth in sharing the good News and faithfulness to God in all things. Pray as they seek to be agents of transformation and reconciliation in a challenging multi-ethnic and multicultural context-pray for fruit following recent JAM events throughout the country (Jambatan Anak Malaysia (JAM) translates as 'Building Bridges towards Racial Reconciliation'). Indigenous Support Development One major way that IFES has responded to the challenge of sustainable support for national movements is the taking off of the Indigenous Support Development (ISD) programme. The EPSA region is one of the five regions where this programme is being implemented in the first phase. Trainings have been conducted for staff workers in the following countries in the region; Gambia, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Tanzania and Botswana. Also the board members of LIFES, Liberia have been trained in aspects of Indigenous Support. The goal is to ensure effective generation of resources locally in order to sustain the ministry without wholly depending on external sources. Other regions who are beneficiaries of this arrangement are: Francophone, Caribbean, Eurasia- Eastern Europe and MENA- Middle East and North Africa. The Program Director for the ISD is Mr. Kehinde Ojo, based in Abuja, Nigeria.

problem with stereotypes is not that they are untrue, but that they are incomplete. They make one story become the only story. The worldwide image of Nigeria (ns) is distorted and untrue. It is based on what ought not to define such a great people. I have only been to one state, and particularly one (great) city. But this is the Nigeria I know. I have lived among a people, eaten their food, attempted to understand their customs, devoured the writings of their most famous son, cherished the company of his fans; all is a short time. But this image is now fixed in my mind. It is engraved in my heart. The Nigerians I now know, firsthand, are not polite people, they are genuinely kind; they are not tolerant of strangers, they are loving and caring; they are not impatient with otherness, they are honoured by the company of aliens (like myself) living among them. To only perpetuate the negative and the undesirable, about a great people and land, is to humanity a great deal of blessing. Glimpse of Heaven? Images of people, places, 'fish', books, Okadas flash in my mind as we cruise towards Lagos. But the image of that lady who prayed for me at the Chapel on Sunday is still vivid in my mind. I can still 'feel' her prayer. Does God answer prayers that faithfully, so willingly and generously? There is no doubt about the answer. But I also know that God has his people everywhere. Especially in Nigeria!

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Upcoming Events
Watch out For These:

Student - Graduate Integration Consultation West and East Africa: August and October, respectively: S-GIC for the Western Sub Region: 16th-20th August 2012, Accra Ghana S-GIC for the Eastern Sub Region: 10th-16th October 2012 in Dares-Salam, Tanzania. Start Praying, Start Planning and Saving SCO, South Africa's National Conference holds in June. Global Partnership ('Salone Missions' in one of the neglected Island of Sierra Leone) between Intervasity Canada and SLEFES: 12th July 12th August, 2012. SLEFES, Sierra Leone holds their national conference in August. GHAFES, Ghana's Student in Church Evangelism programmes hold between June and July. GHAFES and InterVarsity USA students in the Global Project will jointly go to several villages

SPAN-Issue 1-June 2012 SPAN is published by IFES EPSA to bring news about member movements within the Region

IFES Regional Office Grace & Mercy Manor Gutville, Rayfield, P.O. Box 1917, Jos Plateau State, Nigeria, 930001 www.ifesworld.org IFES International Service Centre 5 Blue Boar Street, Oxford OX1 4EE United Kingdom +44(O) 1865 29 2555 info@ifesworld.org www.ifesworld.org

Editor-In-Chief Gideon Para-Mallam gpar-mall@ifesworld.org Editorial Team Dr. Funmi Josephine Para-Mallam Gaya Hankuri Tawus Lucy Amromanoh Bartholomew Lungfa Maikarfi

Contributions are welcome from individuals from the member movements of IFES in the English and Portuguese Speaking Africa Region. Publishers reserve the right to select which items to use and edit for space available. The content published in SPAN does not necessarily reflect the official position of the
International Fellowship of Evangelical Students

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