LHF Finnish author, editor face another trial, but
“WE’RE IN THE VICTORY PARADE!” We thank and praise God that Bishop Juhana Pohjola, LHF’s coordinator for translation projects in Finland, and author Päivi Räsänen have been found not guilty of “incitement to hatred” for their work on the LHF pamphlet “Male and Female He Created Them” (which puts forth a Biblical view of marriage). The celebration has been short-lived, however, as Finnish prosecutors have appealed the decision, and the case will now move to the next higher court. Rev. Tuomo Simojoki, a Finnish pastor who coordinates LHF’s work in Nairobi, Africa, speculates that the case will likely go all the way to the highest courts of the European Union.
Though it’s a very stressful situation for those involved, Rev. Simojoki shared a different perspective - one of joy in persecution. “In our public media, the Biblical teachings of human sexuality and relationships outlined in this booklet are being shared,” he enthused. “Long passages of the Bible are being read and reported in the news. “Furthermore, Bishop Pohjola and Päivi have been able to proclaim Christ in forums where we never before had access, all because of this little booklet. “In 2004, when the pamphlet was first published, we had no idea what its power would be,” he continued. “But
God knew, even then, how He would use an insignificant pamphlet like this to preach His Word to a large audience. “In our world, Rev. Tuomo Simojoki filth is coming as a tidal wave. In despair, we feel the Church is dying. A lot of Christians feel in a corner, put their fists up and get defensive. But we’re the winners! We’re in Christ’s victory parade! God is doing His work this whole time.” Follow new developments on this case at the LHF Facebook page: www.Facebook.com/LutheranHeritage
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movements are no longer easy. There is also the dropout of children due to the closure of schools. These children who constitute tomorrow’s succession of our Church must be educated. The trauma of many people has led to madness in some church members. People no longer being able to cultivate or work has led to poverty and disease among many. “In short, the consequences of this war, which has lasted for years and is only getting worse, are legion.”
IN THE MIDST OF SUCH TERROR, THE CHURCH CONTINUES TO PREACH AND TEACH Despite these many obstacles, ELCBF pastors strive to continue preaching and teaching their people. The books LHF is translating and publishing into the Gourmancema language, including Luther’s Small Catechism (pictured on page 1) and the “Jesus Never Fails” devotional booklet, are proving immensely helpful. “Having good study tools in the local language [equips] our members, even those who have not gone to conven-
tional school, to be able to be fortified by effective and just teaching,” said Rev. Tanpo. “Second, they can bear witness easily and profess faith in Jesus Christ. And of course, the catechism is vital for teaching catechumens and children the confessional Lutheran faith. “In the short time since we have printed and distributed, already good effects are seen. The women have begun to study the catechism in women’s groups under the guidance of their pastors. The children are also organized into different study classes, according to age. Their enthusiasm is quite great and produces spectacular results because they are hearing in the local language! “In addition, the ‘Jesus Never Fails’ booklet has proven itself here, because in this time when people have lost the peace, their family members, their property and businesses, so that there is no one who has not suffered a hard blow, this devotion has helped people find the way to salvation through Christ Jesus. Its words are greatly appreciated!”
LUTHERAN HERITAGE FOUNDATION 51474 Romeo Plank Rd.
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“The Word at Work” is the official publication of the Lutheran Heritage Foundation. Permission is hereby granted to excerpt from this publication for not-for-profit purposes. The Lutheran Heritage Foundation is a Recognized Service Organization of The Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. LHF translates, publishes, distributes and introduces confessional Lutheran materials throughout the world so that people can be brought to Christ. LHF is not subsidized by the LCMS or any other church body. It is entirely supported by individual donations and grants. (“Word at Work” staff: Rev. Dr. Matthew Heise, executive editor; Jennifer Bagnall, managing editor and graphic design; Anna Bagnall, staff writer)
