Nebraska Synod ELCA

A Foundation of Faith, Hope, and Community for South Sudanese in Omaha

In the heart of North Omaha stands Nile Lutheran Chapel, a vibrant and welcoming congregation that serves as both a place of worship and a cultural anchor for the South Sudanese community. Founded in 2000, the ministry—formally part of the Sudanese Outreach Ministries of the Nebraska Synod ELCA—has grown into much more than a church. It is a home, a hub, and a haven.

At the center of this ministry is John Gok Badeng. Known both by his Christian name “John” and given name “Gok,” he began his ministry journey as a youth choir leader in Africa before being invited to lead and teach in congregations across the U.S.

Today, Nile Lutheran Chapel is more than a church—it is a community center for South Sudanese families. John says. “This is a foundation for our people.”

Ministry in Action

The Chapel’s heart beats strongest in its youth ministry. Every Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday, young people gather for Bible study, cultural education, and community. Elders also meet to share stories, history, and wisdom—helping preserve culture and reduce isolation. “It’s a place where no one says, ‘time’s up, you have to leave.’ They stay until they’re ready,” John shares with pride.

This intergenerational exchange fosters healing and hope, especially amid the trauma carried by many community members due to the ongoing conflict in South Sudan. Many in the congregation still have family in the region, and the emotional toll is profound. “Depression and trauma circle around our community,” John says. Worship, singing, and storytelling offer some relief, but deeper support is still needed—particularly for mental health.

A Ministry of Unity

One of the most beautiful aspects of Nile Lutheran Chapel is its role in unifying believers across denominational lines. John helped form the South Sudanese Nebraska Council of Churches, which brings together nine denominations for monthly union worship and fasting prayer events. Fasting and prayer occur three times a year—sometimes from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., and other times overnight—and offer a deep spiritual rhythm to the community.

“These practices strengthen our unity and our faith,” John says. “We pray, share the gospel, and build a stronger body of Christ.”

Vision for the Future

John dreams of expanding the ministry’s outreach—especially to youth. “I want to see our young people stay out of gangs, stay in school, and come to church,” he says. There is also a vision to reach people in shelters and prisons and to provide a dedicated space for youth programs.

Ultimately, John sees Nile Lutheran Chapel as a lamp of faith, lit by the Nebraska Synod and shining brightly for the South Sudanese community. “Even people from other denominations—from Presbyterians to Seventh-day Adventists—say this is their home,” he says. “The Synod lit a lamp among us. And people are very happy.”

A Call to Volunteer

As a relatively new congregation occupying its own building for the first time, the community is still learning how to navigate everything from utility bills to maintenance. “In our home country, we didn’t have buildings like this. There were no lights, no bills,” John says. “Now we need to learn how to sustain this ministry here.”

There are three main areas where the people of the Nebraska Synod can help:

• Support the Women’s Group – Volunteers are needed to help women learn skills like cooking, which they can pass on to younger generations.
• Organizational Support – The congregation welcomes help managing the logistics of running the chapel and sustaining programs.
• Community Care – Listeners are needed to come and spend time with elders—hearing their stories, offering presence, and helping ease trauma.

Want to Connect with Nile Lutheran Chapel? Contact John Badeng at 402-590-3880 or gokbadeng@yahoo.com.