
Next weekend, October 4th and 5th, presents an opportunity to interact with a global Christian leader. Archbishop Benjamin Kwashi will be in our midst at Saint Barnabas for a men's breakfast on Saturday, October 4th from 8:30-10:30 am. The following day, on October 5th at 6:00 pm in Fort Worth, he will be speaking at a fundraiser for an international mission agency, Sharing of Ministries Abroad (please find the flyer here).
I would encourage you to take advantage of one or both events as you will walk away strengthened and emboldened in your faith. Every time I have an opportunity to be with Archbishop Kwashi I am reminded of the great cloud of witnesses we are surrounded by in this life. He has been a spiritual father to me as he has invested deeply in my life and ministry over the years. I know your time with him will bear much fruit as he shares from his vibrant knowledge of the scriptures and his active faith.
Archbishop Kwashi is an Anglican bishop in northern Nigeria. In the region where he lives and ministers he daily faces persecution. Muslims and animist religions are a real threat, as you may have seen in news reports of the several bombing, kidnappings of school girls, and violent outbursts over the past several years. In fact, several attempts have reached close to home for both he and his family. Attempts have been made upon his life as a result of his unwavering leadership and faith. His home has been broken into, his family harassed, his wife and son attacked while he was away, additionally his priests have been killed.
Yet, in spite of this all he continues to place his steadfast trust Jesus Christ. The Anglican Church in his region continues to multiply rapidly producing new dioceses every few years as he leads his clergy and people to seek the lost and build the found. He has been sought after as a speaker in Africa, Europe, Australia, and all over the United States as Christians find hope in his testimony, teaching, and ministry. He has authored several books, and his wife, Gloria, recently released a book about her trials and God's provision and protection in the midst of her trials.
I hope you will seize this unique moment to spend time with this articulate and passionate pastor, leader, and brother in Christ. I promise that you will find it time well spent!