Bugembe Bibles

More than 15 boxes of Bibles were donated and shipped by my friends in South Carolina. But there are only so many extras to go around. The Bugembe Prison men were always thankful to receive their gift and sometimes the eyeglasses that helped them see the small Bible-like print. But this time, my friend wished for Bibles in the local language for her birthday and so very many of her friends responded.

I had the privilege of being present when these spines were cracked and to hear the expressions of appreciation flowing from the men. Carpenter John, the prison chaplain, delivered the message about putting on the full armor of God, and it became obvious that some of the men could hardly read. Not only that, most of them were uncertain about how the book/chapter/verse system between the two bound covers worked. Goodness the things we take for granted.

A simple teaching about how the Bible is organized, who the major authors are, how the books are organized, and the like is definitely in order. Carpenter John was concerned about doing such a teaching given the turnover in the prison, but I encouraged him to proceed so that we might teach even one how to be closer to God through the Word. If you have any tools or suggested simple curriculum to help with an introduction to this big Book, we are eager.