A new book exposing the tragic civil war endured by the Sudanese Christians promises to bring fresh hope to the survivors living as refugees in Sydney.
Through Unfamiliar Paths is the gripping life story of Bernard Suwa, an Anglican minister who arrived in Sydney as a refugee in 2000.
It gives an unique insight into how Christ has transformed thousands of lives devastated by the darkest of evils.
The war between the Islamic government in Khartoum and the mainly Christian south, has left 1.9 million dead and over 4 million refugees.
There are over 10,000 Sudanese refugees in Australia, with a large Sudanese Christian community in Sydney.
All proceeds from the sale of the book will go to aid the development of a Christian education program for the Sudanese community in Australia and beyond.
"In Sudan we do not have any theological education. There are no Bible Colleges," says Bernard.
"I am doing PhD research into flexible or distance education. My hope is to strengthen the external theological training capabilities of our churches so that Sudanese people can study for ministry while they work."
The expense of study is a big issue for Sudanese refugees around the globe. "Our people are trying to survive. They can not afford to leave their jobs to study," he says.
Bernard was born into a extremely poor peasant family in Southern Sudan. Growing up at the height of the Sudanese civil war, Bernard suffered many trials.
His father's health failed after being taken away by soldiers.
His mother was murdered; her burnt and nearly unrecognisable body discovered by Bernard after a long search.
He also lost each one of his six older brothers.
His life was full of pain until one day the Lord met him and transformed his life. Christ restored his hope that life had meaning and purpose.
Bernard is currently pastor of the 150-strong Sudanese congregation that meets at Blacktown Anglican Church.
Next month Bernard will be leading a training conference in Adelaide for 20 Sudanese ministers from around Australia.
Read an extract of Through Unfamiliar Paths here.
Copies of Bernards autobiography can be purchased by contacting Blacktown Anglican Church on 9831 5454 or emailing Bernard Suwa.
