My story commences in 2018, just over a year after I completed my Bachelor’s Degree in Theology. Among my diverse goals, one was to initiate a robotic/computer class for students around a local church I attended. I was introduced to a potential sponsor, to whom I pitched my idea. Fortunately, he was willing to assist with the initial needs to kick off this project.
A few weeks after our meeting, the potential sponsor and I went for a drive outside of town to purchase a Raspberry Pi 3b and Zero W. These were the devices I would test to see if they were ideal for the classes. During our three-hour trip, we had countless conversations, most of which were theological. We discussed his faith and my perspective as an observer of religion and Christianity.
The person I spoke to was a global missionary, the son of a missionary family, and the Head of Communication for a global religious organisation, with a focus on the African continent. If anyone should have questioned my position toward Christianity and religion, it should have been him. However, our conversations were filled with grace as we listened to each other and questioned things we didn’t understand.
A week after our trip, I had a follow-up meeting with the sponsor to give feedback on the Raspberry Pi devices. Another meeting was planned for the following week, during which I would present the financial investment needed to kick-start the aforementioned goal.
When the follow-up meeting date arrived, I was prepared to present the financial proposal as planned. However, the sponsor had another burning question that turned into a discussion. Over a pot of coffee, our meeting agenda changed, and he offered me the role of Communication Assistant for the Africa Region within the organisation where he was employed. If you recall, we had polar views on our belief system, but he still chose me for that position.
While my initial goal was to start a robotics/computer school at the local church, I had to make a choice between that and an opportunity to understand the inner operations of a church at local, continental, and global levels. From here, I will share some of my findings and experiences within this organisation.
