“I’m a victim of political and tribal civil war in South Sudan, and due to its insecurity I’m working outside my country,” Put said in a release. “Through international peacemaking I’m hoping to get ideas that promote peace and share those with my fellow citizens so that one day we can live in harmony like brothers and sisters created by one God.”
Put is one of 10 Presbyterian Church International Peacemakers touring the U.S. this fall as part of a program aimed at sharing what life is like for people in war-ravaged areas. Members of the delegation will speak at churches, seminaries and other gatherings in the U.S. from Sept. 21 through Oct. 15. He said he’ll be sharing insight into the work being done to transform the country and ease the tensions.
Put uses his training in mediation, reconciliation, trauma and healing to lead workshops within the Presbyterian Church in South Sudan. Despite the obstacles presented by the social and political realities of his country, Put has had success introducing Sudanese youth to each other.
“In 2014 and 2015 many of our young people would not even greet each other,” he said. “We organized regular intercultural events using games and training methods; these created friendships and enhanced harmony and unity amongst the young people of my country.”
“We have a very strong relationship with [the U.S. Church] as our founder church,” says Put. “Through our affiliation with the Church we get support to facilitate programs in South Sudan. Our main objective is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ to the people and enhance unity among them.”
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