April 24, 2007
Volume 1, Issue 10

Editor: Rick Scherger

In the 1990's the government of Cameroon began building public schools in some of the villages, especially where there is a Muslim majority. In the past, the protestant churches, especially the Lutheran churches had built and ran the schools. Once public schools became entrenched in the areas, the government removed education grants from the Christian schools. Now, only the parents who can afford tuition use the Christian schools.

The new reality is that not all the Christian schools are sustainable. They cannot afford 4-5 teachers salaries when they only have 15-20 students. The church has began an evaluation of all of its institutions. They will need to deal with this new reality very quickly. Some schools will need to be closed or amalgamated. In 2006, eleven schools were closed and four were amalgamated. This has the village chiefs very upset and now they question whether the church should even remain in the villages.

One of the strategies the church is looking at is to implement a Christian education program in the congregations. This will ensure the teaching of Christian faith but it will also provide opportunities for the church to work in development and skill building.

Those children who cannot afford to go to school or are too far from the public schools or who are orphans and must care for younger siblings when their parents die from aids can bring the children to church school on Sundays. They will get care from the congregations on a regular basis.

The church in Cameroon is dealing with a new reality in a very creative way and they have tied it to God's mission in the world- to bless the world, to be in mission for others. We in Canada will be able to share in this mission. We have a history and a legacy of Sunday school activity. This can be a way we can partner with the Cameroon church.

Thanks be to God who brings us together and reveals in very surprising ways how the gospel touches our lives in various ways and in similar ways.

Peace from Bishop Elaine in equatorial Cameroon where the days are always 12 hours long.

Please include the following insert in your next bulletin.
2007 NATIONAL CONVENTION - JUNE 21-24
(University of Manitoba) - Many volunteers are still needed!  ushers, stewards, drivers, registration assistants, offering counters, hospitality, publicity.  For detailed information please go to http://www.mnosynod.org/crossword.html or contact the MNO Synod office at 889.3760.

Are you ready to stretch your wings, put your faith to work and be a catalyst for real change?  If so,

LUTHERAN URBAN MINISTRY
Requires a
MINISTRY LEADER AND MANAGER

This challenge will invigorate you if you can:

• Maintain an organized and welcoming premises for LUM users
• Plan and sustain programming such as counseling and referral, group Bible studies, youth activities, educational sessions, Worship services
• Train and coordinate volunteers.
• Report to the Board of Directors

Success requires that you have:

• DEMONSTRATED commitment to serving and helping others
• Respect for diversity and cultural values
• Post-secondary education or equivalent and demonstrated experience
• Creative problem solving skills
• Strong organizational and leadership skills
• Superb communication skills including computer proficiency
• Excellent networking/advocacy skills
• Understanding of Lutheran theology and practices.

Criminal Records and Child Abuse Registry checks required.
                                                                                             
Please email your resume and cover letter to lisa_janke@yahoo.ca by May 11, 2007.
(cell 204.470.3435)