NIGERIA
SOUTH SUDAN
INDONESIA
The Covid-19 situation in Nigeria is somewhat pathetic because of Nigeria’s meager resources to contain the spread of the virus. As a result, schools, churches and businesses were shut down, and a lot of people lost their jobs. When churches were closed, small groups met for catechesis with our translated Small Catechism, so we could prepare new people for baptism and confirmation in our Yala congregations. LHF books are used as good evangelism tools for non-Christians as well. The “Jesus Never Fails” devotional booklet has been shared house-to-house by our local pastors. We heard this same story among the Muslims in Plateau State. Very soon, by the grace of God, they shall have the complete Small Catechism with Explanation in the Hausa language.
Looking back over the 12 months, Covid-19 had a great impact on the ministry. There were no services or businesses open, and we lost all the small contributions our members used to give to support the church. But the pandemic did not stop our translation projects; in fact, it gave us time to do more work! We have printed A Child’s Garden of Bible Stories and The Good News about Jesus in Zande, and recently we printed the Madi catechism. All these have been helpful resources for teaching the faith during this turbulent time, especially for children who are staying at home without school. Children’s books are rare in our society, but for the first time, LHF has introduced two of them in the languages of the people in South Sudan!
Because of the Covid-19, children are not able to attend churches and Sunday schools much. Now there is another lockdown in many cities because of a recent spike. Therefore, the only way to help children continuing to study God’s Word and nurturing their faith is through LHF’s materials like the Bahasa Indonesian A Child’s Garden of Bible Stories, Lutheranism 101 for Kids and My First Catechism. Many people are frustrated and have lost hope, including Christians. Fathers have lost jobs, and perhaps the mothers did not work at all. The cost of living has become much heavier, and there is increasing domestic violence. With the help of people who have a heart to spread the Gospel, LHF books about Jesus strengthen their faith while facing the trials of life.
- Rev. Dr. Michael Adoga LHF project coordinator in Nigeria
- Rev. Peter Anibati Abia, bishop
- Imelda Aritonang LHF project coordinator in Indonesia
KENYA
Evangelical Lutheran Church in South Sudan/Sudan
In Kenya, movement of people across the borders is limited, but goods can be transported freely. Within countries, daily activities have resumed, including church gatherings and other social events. LHF’s work has continued unhindered during the past 12 months. We managed to publish Luther’s Small Catechism with Explanation in 6 different languages and On Christian Freedom in Swahili. Having a book of one’s own has been the joy of many who receive LHF materials in East Africa, especially when it was not possible to move around. There is ever more demand for LHF materials, and so projects like the catechism and the “What About...” series are underway in more than 15 East African languages! Our gratitude to the donors who have faithfully supported LHF’s work, ensuring people get Lutheran materials in their languages. May Jesus Christ continue blessing you as you extend your generosity toward the extension of His Kingdom on earth. - Rev. George Ondieki LHF translator in Kenya
2
