Summer 2013
UGANDAN MONKEY BOY
As it went on, the more interested I got. The nearer they came to finding him, the more intense it was. They eventually caught up with him, with a group gathered round him in Kampala, singing & playing a guitar. I could hardly believe my eyes as I watched the TV. Could it be?…Yes!…
He was playing a blue Guitar Aid guitar! What a blessing to see that we have helped someone who had such a difficult start in life! I contacted the reporter who made the documentary
and told her how surprised I had been to see the guitar aid guitar on the programme.
She sent this reply:
“That’s absolutely fantastic! Thank you for getting in touch. Meeting John was a real priviledge – he’s been through so much and his resilience and enthusiasm for life and people isn’t dimmed one bit. Cool guy. And he loves that guitar – his guardian, Paul, described how John carefully guards his most important possessions – a couple of books, his clothes and the blue guitar.” Mary-Anne Ochota – Raised Wild – Discovery network
CAMPFEST SLOVAKIA
Last summer 21 people from our church, including my wife Liz & daughter Becky, went on a mission that took in Poland, Czech Rep & Slovakia. The climax of this trip was the opportunity to play at Campfest, leading the worship sessions at 3 events. All the instruments and amplifiers we took were left to bless individuals & local churches. What was so special to me, was to see the fruit of the many visits we have made to this part of Eastern Europe. Every guitar we give has a story to tell, but one stood above the rest.
A few years ago Bryn Haworth gave me a Black Ovation Custom Legend. This guitar would cost around £2000 to buy new. I wanted such an instrument to go somewhere special, so I gave it to Marian, who headed up Campfest, as well as having his own successful band. This guitar was used on many albums & tours, then Marian felt he should pass it on to young worship leader who would benefit from the sound & quality of the instrument. I will never forget the feeling of standing amongst over 5000 people & seeing that guitar on the big screen being used to praise & glorify God.
CICI’S STORY
MACEDONIA, KOSOVA & ALBANIA
When my brother John had to take a short break from missions, I decided to ask my friend, Al to go with me. Together we travelled to Macedonia, Kosovo & Albania. This was a great time, as we shared the good news of Jesus & took guitars to many churches & communities that needed them
SPONSOR A WORSHIP LEADER
I hope this newsletter inspires you to get involved with the work of Guitar Aid. I could have so easily missed that programme about the boy Raised Wild. Don’t miss your opportunity to be part of what we are doing, raising up worship leaders across the globe.
The story of John Sebunya, shows how God’s love reaches to those in need. I’m not sure how he got that guitar, but I do know God has called me to give with generosity, and I thank you for being part of that. Contact me by phone or e mail if you would like to be more involved.
Thank you for your support.
Many Blessings.
Dave Sumner
