Across Sudan

Rich Heritage

Founded in 1972 by four mission societies (AIM, SUM, SIM, and MAF), Across has since gone through a number of transitions in response to the changing conditions in South Sudan and partners outside Sudan. Ever since, many of the Across staff have had a calling to serve the people of South Sudan. Across’ continuous service for almost 40 years has given us a wonderful heritage in the nation.  Across has been the platform where so many Sudanese have become mature Christian professionals, often holding major responsibilities and strategic positions in the South Sudan government, Church and society at large. Across has become a special and valuable partner to the Church in South Sudan over the decades of collaboration, including the years of wartime. It also has built up goodwill among the many communities we have partnered with since 1972.

Currently, Across is entering a new phase in which we have a redefined identity and focus, as a transformational resource organization, with holistic discipleship as a focus. The re-articulation of our vision is timely alongside the establishment of the republic of South Sudan (on the 9th of July, 2011).

Some key characteristics which mark the recent changes are:

 1. A new vision and mission for the organization, making a clear move towards holistic ministry

2. An integrated program approach

3. Geographical concentration on our four locations in South Sudan: Juba (Central Equatoria), Yei (Western Equatoria), Rumbek/Adol (Lakes State) and Boma (Jonglei State)

4. Revitalized collaboration with the Sudanese Evangelical churches, and

5. Substantial involvement in rehabilitation and reintegration responses to refugees and displaced people groups

Listening to the Communities, listening to God

The dynamics in South Sudan affect the nature and style of Across’s work.  Beyond security issues, refugee issues, and political movements, the presence of international relief agencies has made some people hopeless and others dependent, dampening some people’s imagination for change.  Since the peace agreement in 2005 ended thirty years of civil war in Sudan - Africa’s largest country - Across has had to respond to new realities both helpful and challenging.  There is an urgency for communities to seek God’s direction in their trajectories, identifying their needs, seeking a solution together, and moving toward the envisioned destiny.

An 'International-South Sudanese' organization

In terms of staff, Across has both Sudanese and international members at every level of organization.  In keeping with Across’ philosophy of local action, most staff are South Sudanese and remain connected to the resources of the local community.  The international staff provide connections and resources from other communities and distant parts of the body of Christ.  This relationship hopes to avoid models of dependency as the Southern Sudanese work for their own development, seeking Godly transformation.

It is supported by individuals and donor organizations around the world.  Check out Get Involved to see what the current needs are.