Raining Stones

Ethiopia, Chagni-Bullen Mission

April 13, 2006
African Enterprise

“The people living in darkness have seen a great light; on those living in the land of the shadow of death a light has dawned.” Matthew 4:16

Yes, indeed light sprung up in Chagni-Bullen (North West Ethiopia) and the surrounding cities as a result of the recent mission. “Altogether it was a joyous and unforgettable experience that changed the history of the area.”

Planning a mission in this particular region of Ethiopia was compared to ‘sailing against the tide’. The ratio of Christians in this area is approximately one in a thousand as compared to the national average of one in seven; the area being dominated by traditional beliefs.

Those preaching, had to prepare themselves for opposition and persecution, as the region is well known for its violence. About two years ago, religious fanatics beat a Christian evangelist to death. In fact, for the duration of the mission, stones were thrown on church rooftops.

Yet in the midst of ‘raining stones’, people came in their hundreds and some 110 people made first time commitments. An even larger number recommitted their lives to the Lord. Many were healed from sicknesses and freed from demonic possession. As one Board Member reported “I could not believe my eyes; seeing bare footed, poor farmers, men, women and children accepting Christ as their Saviour. I think while Jesus was on earth, He must have ministered to such kinds of people.”

In His service
Melisachew Mesfin
Team Leader