What is Umoja
Umoja is a word from Africa that has spread to many parts of the world. It means 'togetherness'. Umoja stands for a community that tackles together the problems it faces. A community that feels responsible for each other; especially for those who are weak, sick and vulnerable.
Umoja's working method consists of five phases.
1. Waking up to vision
The local church leader helps a local church understand that God is calling them, through the Bible, to serve the community. It is about trusting God, identifying one's own resources and starting to believe that change is possible.
2. Bringing the community together
Space now arises as a local church to engage with the whole community about their needs and resources, to gather information and analyse the best approach to meet needs.
3. Dreams and action plans
Once people agree on what needs to change, church and community work together to develop a vision for the future and plan. What is everyone's role? How can own resources be used?
4. Taking action
And then get to work! Together. That builds relationships and good experiences. When working, it is necessary to receive advice and stay spiritually inspired. Consultation is needed, but so is celebrating positive changes.
5. Evaluation
Periodically, it is necessary to evaluate how church and community are working together, how the work is progressing and how the lives of individuals and the community are improving. Prayer and thanksgiving are part of this.