In November 2024, a team visited Port Sudan, the first by the Relay Trust to the Episcopal Church there since the war began in April 2023. Led by Doug Ingram (COO), this journey was both sobering and affirming. It was a reminder of suffering, resilience, and the grace that sustains God’s people through unimaginable trials.
The war has torn the country apart. Churches bombed, clergy killed, and families displaced. However, even in the wilderness, the Church has endured. Port Sudan now serves as the temporary hub of the Province. From a single room in the cathedral compound, Archbishop Ezekiel and his team are quietly holding the line, offering sanctuary, organising support, and serving those who have nowhere else to go.
There were moments of joy. Visiting schools, churches, even homes made possible through collaborative support. A highlight was stepping inside Bishop Abdu’s new house, a tangible sign of stability in an otherwise shifting world. Another was seeing a crowded old church house now serving as shelter for nearly 50 displaced people, proof that even damaged walls can become holy ground.
But there were also hard truths. Stories of beatings, persecution, and loss. The challenge of transferring funds into Sudan remains a major obstacle. Creative, if imperfect, systems are in place, local networks handling disbursement. Yet the need far outstrips capacity.
Conversations with Archbishop Ezekiel and his team explored next steps. A 25-year vision for training leaders, equipping churches, and helping the Church become economically sustainable was discussed. Support may be necessary now, but the goal is always empowerment—not dependency.
The team also met with Sudan’s new Minister for Religious Affairs, with whom, with care and honesty, the team raised the realities of Christian persecution and pressed for continued protection and dignity for all faith communities. The minister assured his support, and we pray those words take root.
In Port Sudan, there are glimmers of possibility, churches still standing, children still learning, prayers still being offered. But there’s much to do. Plans are now underway to renovate Rodney Carter Bible College, restart translation work for three minority languages, and extend theological training to displaced communities in Wad Medani and beyond.
Please pray for the Church in Sudan. For leaders like Archbishop Ezekiel and Bishop Abdu. For those sleeping in church halls and refugee camps. And for a lasting, just peace.
God has not abandoned Sudan. And neither should we.
