Pioneer of the Sudan Pentecostal Church in Aweil, South Sudan

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Biography of Pastor John Garang Chech Lual

Pioneer of the Sudan Pentecostal Church in Aweil, South Sudan

Personal Background

Full Name: Pastor John Garang Chech Chech Lual
Date of Birth: April 14, 1970
Place of Birth: Darfur, Northern Sudan
Married to: Damaris Agot But Akook (since October 30, 1999)
Children: Father of 9 children
Current Location: Wanyjok, Northern Bahr el Ghazal, South Sudan

Early Life & Red Army Service

Pastor John was born in Darfur after his family relocated there from Aweil due to unrest. They returned to Aweil in 1973, where he grew up. In 1987, as a teenager, he joined the Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) and became part of the famous Red Army, receiving both military and academic training in Ethiopia.

Despite being trained for war, a deeper spiritual calling awaited him. He encountered Christ on September 20, 1992, in Kajo-Keji County, Central Equatoria, where he gave his life to Jesus and began a journey of transformation from soldier to servant of God.

Ministry Calling & SPC in Aweil

After his conversion, Pastor John returned to Aweil, Northern Bahr el Ghazal, with a burning passion to preach the Gospel. He became the first person to introduce the Sudan Pentecostal Church (SPC) in the region — a significant spiritual milestone for Aweil.

His ministry began in Madhurman, Aweil East County, where, despite many challenges, God moved mightily and touched many hearts. With strong faith and perseverance, Pastor John became a key figure in spreading the gospel across the area.

Ordination and Ministry Work

On January 5, 1997, he was formally ordained as a pastor in Koboko County, Uganda by the late Bishop Christopher Banja. He later married Damaris Agot But Akook on October 30, 1999, a godly woman who stood with him throughout his calling. Together, they’ve raised 9 children while serving the Lord in various ministry roles.

Christian Leadership & Service

Over the years, Pastor John has served in several leadership and ministry positions:

Local Church Leadership – Senior Pastor of SPC Wanyjok Church, where he continues to shepherd the flock.

  • Bible Translator – Serving with Local Church Priority, helping translate Scripture into local languages.

  • Christian Media Pioneer – Among the first journalists at Weer Bei FM, a Christian radio station (2009–2010).

  • Christian Humanitarian Work:

    • International Aid Services (IAS) – staff member from 2006–2008.

    • Samaritan’s Purse – worked for 4 years on community and spiritual development.

Translation & Conference Ministry

Pastor John is well respected not just as a preacher but also as a skilled translator. He has served as an interpreter in pastors’ conferences and major Christian gatherings, helping bridge language gaps so the Gospel can reach more people in South Sudan and beyond.

Legacy and Impact

From the frontlines of SPLA to the altars of Aweil, Pastor John Garang Chech Lual’s life is a testimony of transformation, courage, and calling. He is more than a church planter — he is a movement starter, a spiritual father, and a servant of God whose influence will be felt for generations.

“God called me in the battlefield—not with a gun in my hand, but with the Word in my heart.”
— Pastor John Garang Chech Lual



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