Trusting God Every Step of the Journey: SOMA in Tarime Diocese

In June, a SOMA team has had the privilege of serving alongside our brothers and sisters in Tarime Diocese, Tanzania. From the moment the journey began to the final leg of the journey home, it has been a week marked by God's faithfulness, answered prayer, and the work of the Holy Spirit.

The team—Rev Isaac Hanna, Peter McCartney, Rev Henry Blair and Rev Ben Strain—travelled from Ireland and the UK, meeting in Dar es Salaam before making the long journey to Tarime. They were joined by Rev Joshua Opondo from Kenya and Rev John Qbei from Kondoa Diocese in Tanzania. After three flights and a five-hour road journey, the team arrived safely after more than 36 hours of travel, giving thanks for God's protection every step of the way.

Before the conference began, the team spent time praying together, encouraging one another and lifting the Bishop and the Diocese before the Lord. The convention opened with a service of Holy Communion, setting the tone for the days ahead as clergy and lay leaders gathered to worship, learn and seek God together.

Not everything went according to plan. Early in the mission, the team faced an unexpected challenge with paperwork for the mission. There was uncertainty, concern, and the possibility that the mission could be cut short. The team asked for prayer, trusting God to make a way. God answered that prayer and the conference was able to carry on as planned. It was a powerful reminder that even when obstacles arise, God remains faithful.

As the conference unfolded, the team adapted their teaching in response to what they were seeing and hearing among those attending. Rather than simply delivering prepared talks, they listened, prayed, and reshaped the programme to address the needs before them. This flexibility allowed the teaching to speak directly into the lives of those gathered.

One of the highlights of the week came during a session on the gifts of the Holy Spirit. As the team prayed with those attending, many responded with openness and expectation, creating a deeply encouraging time of ministry. The clergy sessions that followed were equally significant, with many church leaders expressing how encouraged they had been through both the teaching and fellowship.

There were moments when numbers appeared low, but as the time progressed, the football pitch venue filled with people eager to worship, learn and receive prayer.

As they reflect on the mission, there is much to thank God for: safe travel, open doors despite challenges, meaningful teaching, lives touched by the Holy Spirit, and strengthened partnerships with the Church in Tarime Diocese.

Thank you to everyone who prayed for the team throughout the mission. Your prayers have been an essential part of this ministry. Please continue to pray for the Diocese of Tarime, for the clergy and leaders who took part in the conference, and that the seeds planted during this week will continue to bear fruit in the months and years to come.