[Juba, South Sudan, TCT] The Good Shepherd College and Seminary (GSCS), an affiliate of the Good Shepherd Educational Foundation (GSEF) in Juba, South Sudan, held an in-service training of teachers and church leaders on Christian Education under the theme “Biblical Basis, Philosophy, and Mission Strategy”, part of the series of “Christ Above Culture: Transforming Societies Through Christian Witness.”
The seminar gathered over 60 participants from a diverse group of educators, including teachers and church leaders from various Christian-based schools and churches, to enhance Christian-centered teaching practices. The attendees represented institutions such as Good Shepherd Academy (GSA), an affiliate of GSEF, King's Secondary School, Jebel Christian Academy, and St. Peter's Primary School, along with several churches in Sherikat, Juba.
The participants began a day-long educational seminar with a devotional and a spiritually enriching, academically engaging program. The devotional session, led by The Rev. Josephine Mwangangi, Chaplain of the Chapel of the Good Shepherd (CoGS, an affiliate of the GSEF), guided the attendees through an opening prayer and Scripture reading, setting a session for worship and reflection for the day.
Fr. John C. Daau, an Anglican priest and founder & director of GSA and its affiliates, who also convened the seminar, delivered a homily, followed by remarks. His homily, from Acts 9:1-32 and 2 Tim 2:2, focuses on Scripture reflections that emphasize the importance of education in transforming and integrating faith into educational practices. Using apostle Paul as an example, “only a transformed educator can transform others,” he said.
In his welcoming remarks, Fr. John warmly invited the participants and facilitated introductions, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among the educators. He also served as a co-facilitator alongside Dr. Isaiah Majok Dau. Dr. Isaiah Dau, a retired General Overseer of the Sudan Pentecostal Church and a renowned author and evangelical theologian, delivered an insightful lecture on the biblical and historical foundation for education. The two led comprehensive sessions covering key aspects of Christian education, including the biblical foundation of education in the Old Testament and guidance on lessons from early missionary work. Among the key topics covered were the qualifications and roles of a Christian teacher/educator.
The seminar covered several key areas, including the difference between Christian and secular education, the philosophy behind Christian teaching, and effective mission strategies in schools. Emphasis was placed on equipping teachers with both spiritual and pedagogical tools to help students lead Christ-centered lives. Attendees were encouraged to promote values that point learners to Christ and glorify God, with moral honesty and a commitment to living by Christian principles.
Dr. Isaiah Dau emphasized the importance of continuous learning in the teaching profession, noting that “a good teacher is also a good student.” His message resonated strongly with participants, reinforcing the call for humility, growth, and dedication in the profession.
The seminar ended successfully, with participants expressing gratitude for the knowledge and insights gained while requesting more training for Christian teachers. Certificates of participation were awarded to all attendees in recognition of their commitment to advancing Christian education.
The initiative by GSCS reflects a growing effort within the Church and academic institutions in South Sudan to promote holistic education — one that nurtures both intellectual development and spiritual growth.
