by Joy Casey
Between my husband and I, I counted twelve bibles scattered throughout our house. Twelve. I feel like a glutton eating enormous meals at no cost with nary a care in the world. It is not like that in other cultures. Bibles are a rare commodity. In Ethiopia being able to actually read a bible is extraordinary.
Did you know that the overall literacy rate in Ethiopia is just 51.8%? 59% of males can read; 44% of females. In rural areas, and especially in Muslim communities, both of these figures are substantially lower.
When someone comes to faith in our Savior and they can read, we want to make sure a bible in their tribal language is placed in their hands. If they are non-readers, then bible truths are communicated orally one-on-one and in group settings. Ideally, I would love to have the ability to give out solar-charged oral bibles (about the size of a phone) to non-readers.
Our Ethiopia team is busy making sure missionaries and pastors have bibles at their disposal. A pastoral team visits the families of our kindergarten students (most are from Muslim homes), and when a father expresses interest in reading our holy book one needs to be provided to him immediately. New converts and those asking questions need a personal edition of God’s Word.
Through gifts from our gift catalog, we provide bibles in Orominya and Amharic so our diligent staff can get the Word out! Just $10 provides one bible to a new believer.
