We had great fun with the CHE (Community Health Evangelism) vision seminars we led on our recent trip to Africa. We led a 2 day seminar in Malakal, South Sudan and a one day event in Gambella, Ethiopia. Engaging with the people during these events is always fun and educational.
women working in small group
Our objective with these seminars was to begin to cast a vision how their communities can live healthier lives. The CHE model uses a learner centered, problem solving, participatory style which enables everyone to participate and we all to learn from each other. Every lesson starts with a skit about something and discussion about what took place and if this happens in their village. As the video and pictures below show only slightly, people really get into the skits.
men carrying the paralytic to Jesus
In our experience the participants have always engaged well with the material. They began to get a vision that they need to own the issues they want solved in their villages, churches or homes and not wait for an outsider. The model affirms their wisdom. In addition to the theoretical we also included practical lessons on health and water sanitation.
sitting outside in Gambella because it was too hot in the church
Different houses indicating the different places that medical problems can be care for: in the home, at the health center or in a hospital
In the video below the lady in the front had an accident and broker leg. Her friend took her to the village witch doctor or fetisher. In the Nuer culture the witch doctors use 3 items, represented by the spoons, and toss them on the ground repeatedly to try to bring about the desired change.
video of skit with witch doctor
Pete, You would not remember me but I had worked with you, Maryl and Brian Johnson, Bill Moench, Becky Diani and others at Twin Lakes Bible Camp summer 1971; and some of us had been at Iowa State University after that. Becky and her family have mentioned you and your wife’s work in Congo over the years so I followed it on the internet. There are many from South Sudan in this city and Austin, Des Moines: Dinka, Nuer, Nuba. I read about the Alaska-Sudan medical project in Old Fangok and how volunteer well drillers had to evacuate due to the recent fighting. I am so saddened by the recent unrest and hope you and your congregation are safe. – Jenny
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Hi Jenny,
What fun to hear from you. Thank you for finding us and responding. See my separate email.
Pete
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Hi Pete,
Long time no see brother! I enjoyed reading this Blog and am incredulous that this kind if utter ignorance still exists in the world – referring to the witch doctor video. You must have the patience of Job to deal with this – only by the grace and mercy of Christ and through the strength of God I am sure. I am also worried about your safety in the Sudan and in Congo. What is like to live in Gemena?
I have been reminiscing about our time together living in the Mobile Home and attending classes at University of Florida. Twas a blessed time way back when….
Larry Wedekind
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Pete and Cindi,
I love getting your letters and hearing about the CHE model and how it is working in your area. Bless you, bless you, for all that you are doing and may God’s hand of protection be upon you. It is so cool to see the work of CHE taking place among the people!
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Hi Larry,
Thank you so much for the note and for reading what we’ve written. We are doing well. Traveling and speaking in churches has been very encouraging for us. We’ve enjoyed hearing of people’s interest in and passion for Congo. Our time in the US is winding down as we leave May 14. I’ll give you a call some day.
Pete
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