April 2026 Newsletter
Happy Easter!
He is Risen!! Easter is always one of the most beautiful and significant celebrations at In Deed And Truth Ministries (IDAT). In Tonj, South Sudan, Easter is not limited to a single service—it is a full weekend of worship, outreach, and powerful gospel proclamation. This extended celebration creates a unique and strategic opportunity to share the good news of Jesus Christ over three full days. As Scripture says, “How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the gospel of peace, who bring glad tidings of good things.” That truth was vividly lived out as we marched the streets once again this year.
Good Friday began with a vibrant and faith-filled march through the streets of Tonj. Approximately 400–500 people gathered at our compound and walked together to the church. The group included pastors, Community Health Evangelism (CHE) volunteers, ministry leaders, hospital staff, and many others eager to participate. As we walked, we filled the streets with worship—singing, clapping, and declaring the name of Jesus. Along the route, we stopped at five different locations to preach the gospel. One especially meaningful stop was outside the local prison, where we shared the message of hope and freedom. It was a powerful reminder of Luke 4:18:
“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me… to preach the gospel… to proclaim liberty to the captives.” — Luke 4:18
Another key highlight of the day was ministering in the local marketplace. This area is largely made up of Arab-run businesses, and we intentionally shared the gospel with approximately 1,000 Muslims. It was a bold and important opportunity to bring the message of Jesus to those who may not otherwise hear it. Midway through the march, a heavy storm rolled in, drenching everyone. Yet instead of stopping, the team pressed on. We continued to sing, dance, and preach in the rain, creating a powerful witness of joy and perseverance to all who were watching. The day concluded with a shared team meal, where goat was prepared as a symbolic reminder of Jesus as our Passover Lamb. Together, we reflected on John 1:29:
“Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!” — John 1:29
Saturday morning was intentionally set aside for rest and time with family, allowing everyone to recharge after the intensity of Good Friday. In the afternoon, we gathered again for our monthly prayer meeting, with a special focus on the death and resurrection of Jesus.
Sunday brought even more reason to celebrate. The church was filled beyond capacity, with people sitting in the aisles and standing outside, eager to be part of the service. There was a tangible sense of expectancy and joy as we gathered to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus. After sharing communion together and hearing a powerful message of hope and new life, we witnessed the fruit of the gospel in a beautiful way.
Following the service, the celebration continued with a march from the church to the river for our annual Easter baptisms. At the river, 287 people were baptized, publicly declaring their faith in Jesus Christ. As each person entered the water, the gospel was preached to the surrounding community. Hundreds gathered along the riverbanks—singing, dancing, and rejoicing with each baptism. This Easter weekend was a powerful reminder that the gospel is alive, active, and changing lives.
“He died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for Him who died for them and was raised again.”
2 Corinthians 5:15