By Katie Knight, The Lincoln Journal Star (Nebraska).
The Rev. Dr. Andrew McDonald believes “Who am I?” is the greatest question any human being has to answer. To him, baptism is the defining moments for those of faith when it comes to their Christian identity.
At Westminster Presbyterian Church where McDonald pastors, he’s been working with a group of nearly 55 men, women and children helping them find their identities both as South Sudanese refugees living in America and as Christians.
It all began about a year ago when Moses Bilew, one of the refugees, wound up in Lincoln. He had learned the tenets of the Presbyterian faith from missionaries back in Africa, and knew he wanted to further pursue that journey in the United States alongside his family.
“When I came to U.S., no church the same as Westminster, the people,” Bilew said in halting English. “The pastor, the whole congregation is loving us well. They love too much. Very, very, very good people. I’m very happy.”
Since last spring, McDonald watched the Sudanese community grow, both in Lincoln as a whole and at Westminster. Despite the language barrier, he has been able to connect with families and hear their stories.