SOMA Training in Sierra Leone – March 2024
In November 2023, the Relay Trust had the honour of supporting a SOMA mission trip to the Anglican Dioceses of Bo and Freetown in Sierra Leone. This visit was part of our ongoing commitment to support and train clergy and lay leaders across West Africa. We were privileged to partner with SOMA, an organisation known for its impactful teaching and training programmes.
SOMA’s journey began in the Diocese of Bo, where they conducted a two-day training conference titled “Ministry in the Power of the Holy Spirit.” Fifty clergy and lay leaders attended, eagerly participating in sessions that delved into spiritual growth and practical ministry. The conference covered topics such as “The Spiritual Realm,” “The Holy Spirit and His Gifts,” “Healing and Deliverance,” and the essential themes of forgiveness and holiness.
One memorable moment was when over 20 children joined our session, their curiosity and enthusiasm adding a unique dynamic to the learning environment. Their presence underscored the importance of inclusive ministry that touches all generations.
Following the conference, the team split into two groups to extend their training to more remote areas. This included visiting local secondary schools where they performed a drama based on “The Unforgiving Servant,” adapted from Bob Hartman’s sketch. This engaging presentation communicated the powerful message of forgiveness, resonating deeply with both students and teachers.
In Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, the team continued their mission, training another 60 clergy and lay leaders over two days. This was followed by visits to remote deaneries to ensure that those unable to travel to Freetown could also benefit from the training. The sessions covered the same key topics, with an added emphasis on practical applications and prayer ministry.
A highlight of the SOMA team’s time in Freetown was the Diocesan Youth Day, which gathered 60 young people from various youth organisations. Through a series of dramas from the Book of Acts and lively discussions, they encouraged these young leaders to embrace their faith and share it within their communities. The day was filled with joy, laughter, and heartfelt worship, creating a memorable and uplifting experience for all involved.
SOMA’s visit was greatly enriched by the support of Bishops Solomon Scott-Manga of Bo and Thomas Ikunuka Wilson of Freetown. Their leadership and hospitality were instrumental in the success of the mission. The newly opened Mount Zion Training Centre near Regent (constructed with the support of the Relay Trust) served as a home base for the team.
As we reflect on this wonderful transformative journey undertaken by the SOMA team, we invite you to join us in prayer for the ongoing ministry in Sierra Leone. Pray for the clergy and lay leaders as they implement what they have learned, and for the young people inspired to take on leadership roles. Let us also lift up the Mount Zion Training Centre, that it may continue to be a beacon of hope and a hub for spiritual growth across West Africa.
