Bukene
Bukene has had a reputation for being a very difficult place to work. It has been an Anglican Parish for many years but was always struggling and riddled with problems. It has a strong Muslim population and many people are heavily into traditional beliefs and practices. First, one clergyman was withdrawn after what probably was a breakdown, then his successor said he would resign if he wasn't moved. The Diocesan Council decided to send one of the Church Planting Evangelists as the last ditch attempt before the anticipated closure of the Parish. There was said to be just one family there that made up the congregation.
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Evangelist Michael Albin |
The task was given to Michael Albin. He was not put off by the reputation of this village and had, in the first six months, started no fewer than six new congregations in Bukene and surrounding villages. By June he had 54 adult believers, and 62 children worshipping. When Bishop Francis visited he baptised 25 adults and children and confirmed 20 adults and 3 teenagers. (It would have been 21 adults, but one lady had to leave the service early to give birth to her baby - and wasn't able to get back before the end of the service!)
Michael has had many evangelistic meetings in the area and invited the Jesus Film Ministry team, which are based in the Diocese, to work with him. He has selected and is training six people, one to be responsible for each of these congregations. In Bukene he has organised the building of a temporary mud and stick church with a grass roof. They have a large plot and are planning to build a house and permanent church building. They are currently making bricks.
At the last Diocesan Council meeting, when the news of Bukene was shared, there was spontaneous applause and prayers of praise!
"At the last Diocesan Council meeting, when the news of Bukene was shared, there was spontaneous applause and prayers of praise!"