In the midst of injustice and severe poverty, stories of restoration are often lost. However, former Ugandan child soldiers Paul Okwokene and Grace Arach tell inspiring stories about their captivity, release and redemption through a rehabilitation centre funded by World Vision.
Both Paul and Grace experienced extremely distressing events after being kidnapped and forced to join the Ugandan rebel force, the Lord’s Resistance Army, at a very young age, robbing them of a childhood that many of us take for granted.
Grace explains:
“I was abducted by the Lord’s Resistance Army. They tortured me, raped me, and forced me to become a wife of a commander. But I did not give up and will never give up. I will see to it that no more war happens among my people as long as I live.” In 2010, Paul and Grace visited four churches around Australia and their story inspired many. This month, as part of the “Stories of Hope” tour, Paul and Grace will visit
10 churches around Australia to tell of their extraordinary experiences and how World Vision worked with them to bring restoration.
Levi McGrath, a singer and songwriter who is part of World Vision’s Artists Associates program, spent 5 months in Uganda with his wife Megan and got to know Paul and Grace well. Levi will join the tour, providing additional stories through his music.
Through our Child Rescue program, World Vision provides rehabilitation and support for children who are at risk, or have been the victims of exploitation and abuse.