I have just listened to the baptism stories from Easter Sunday and have made some brief notes. Two amazing stories made more significant due to the connection between the countries they are from. They are now good friends.

Antonio – Eritrean
He was kidnapped and forced into the army (at war with Ethiopia) – really bad experience saw lots of killing and forced to kill himself.
After 2 years he got out and went to Italy. Later moved in UK, his language teacher was Richard who helped him move into the Jericho Road Project. Often Antonio would tell Richard that he wants to change his life. Started going to king’s and on the Alpha course decided that he wanted to follow Jesus.

Simtao – Ethiopian
He was on the other side of the war. He had a very bad experience. In prison for 2 years, had bad torture and his back was broken. Also his wife was killed and his son went missing.
A refugee in the UK he found life very difficult. His language teacher, Francis, introduced him to King’s Money Advice for his debt issues. He went on Alpha and described one answer to his prayers. Still crying lots about his wife being killed he made contact with his son. He talks to him and one day hopes to bring him to England. He has found faith in Jesus on Alpha and loves coming to church.

What a wonderful message of reconciliation!