Near the marketplace where Bill and I sometimes food shop, four young boys were among those killed by a landmine yesterday.  They were hand digging the foundation for a house they were hired to help build.   It is not uncommon for children to be involved in construction and other manual labor in this country where more than “1.3 million primary school age children are out of school.” (UNESCO)

All four boys were killed instantly when the hand tool they were digging with struck a metal mine.    It was a horrific and tragic accident and reminds us of the conditions that children and others live under day after day.    The entire country of South Sudan, which received its independence just over two years ago, is littered with unexploded devices such as landmines, grenades, and artillery shells. Pray that our meager efforts will make even a small difference in the lives of those who live in this newest yet poorest of African nations.  Please pray for South Sudan and for the families of these four children.