Ministries Update (June 2006)

The rains came early and heavy this year in Ethiopia and with the rain the work in the countryside slows dramatically. Some of the villages where we minister are practically unreachable because of the mud and danger in travel. Yet the work goes on.
Reports from Ethiopia have been encouraging. There has been a heavy emphasis on the Oromo region which has witnessed a time of growth through church planting. At last count thirty boxes of Bibles had been delivered to the ten churches in the Oromo region, and teachers are being assigned to the region for the purpose of discipleship. The church has grown so rapidly that we are in great need of qualified teachers to help the fledgling churches develop a sound foundation. Negash reported that the congregations in Alemgena and Senkele have acquired land and begun to build meeting halls, sanitary facilities and housing for ministers (this is currently being done with mostly local resources and donors).
Operation Rescue in Mekele, Ethiopia continues to minister to over 200 orphans at their new campus that includes an eight-room school building. The construction of other buildings that will house a clinic, offices, a cafeteria and hygiene facilities is currently underway. The goal for the new campus is to increase the number of children ministered to by 100.
The Mathenias have returned to the States from Ethiopia for a time of physical healing and plan to return to Ethiopia by January 2007. The Lanes have returned to the States for the duration of the rainy season for the purpose of raising additional support. They plan to return to Ethiopia in September.
The Breitenmosers report that the ministry in Bremerhaven, Germany has been well-established and fruit is beginning to be seen. Not only has Ecki had the opportunity to witness on the ships, but he has also had groups of sailors in his home for worship, fellowship and Bible study. They are currently searching for a home that can facilitate the growing needs of their family and ministry.
Praise God for good news from distant lands!