Author: Mark Igga Mona Odolopre (Adventist University of Africa, Kenya)
Abstract: This study investigated leadership trends and implications toward development of the Adventist Church in South Sudan, using the descriptive design. Sources of data were interviews and documents. Twenty-five church leaders, pastors and members participated in the study. Data was analyzed through the thematic approach. The study revealed that the establishment of the Adventist church in South Sudan was influenced by dedicated missionaries like Daudi Ogillo from Tanzania and Gerald Whitehouse from the United States of America. Besides planting churches, these leaders established humanitarian and medical services which propelled the development of the church. The leaders experienced communication challenges and religious restrictions as major challenges. Indigenous leaders followed the footsteps of the non-indigenous leaders by applying the principles of servant and spiritual leadership. As a result, church membership has increased and 41 pastors have received ministerial ordination. Other developments include professional development of church workers and establishment of 34 primary schools. The study recommends that the current church leadership continues working sacrificially to foster the church growth and development. The leaders should take advantage of the improved conditions to accelerate the church growth. The leadership should prioritize church employees’ professional development and church members’ self-reliance through regular training.