We Bear It in Tears - Stories from Nigeria

The Church of the Brethren in Nigeria has suffered untold violencefrom the terrorist attacks of Boko Haram. Several hundred thousand members ofEYN (Ekklesiyar Yan’uwa a Nigeria) have been displaced. Thousands have been abductedor killed, including the 276 girls abducted from the Chibok school in 2014. Hundredsof church buildings have been looted, burned, or destroyed.

The outside world has seen the pictures and tallied the numbers but has nottruly heard from those affected by the violence. This book attempts toshare the experiences of those involved in the crisis of Northern Nigeria and givesvoice to the women, men, and children who have suffered. By hearing theirstories, we share their burden of tears. By seeing their faces, we witness anenduring faith and a commitment to nonviolence. These are not merely symbols ofviolence, but individuals with real stories, real families, and real pain.

Thecollection was taken from direct transcripts of recorded interviews by Carol Masonfrom February 16 to March 29, 2017. Each person was asked two questions, “Wherewere you when the Boko Haram attacked and how did it affect you?” The stories widelyrepresent various affected areas, types of experiences, and populations. Togetherthey are a significant effort at establishing a sustainable peace in Nigeria.

Donna Parcell took all the accompanyingphotographs.