A story of loss and new hope
After all, memories of the devastating Ebola outbreak which killed eight people in her village are still fresh within the small community of forty-two families. One of the eight was her husband, whom she loved dearly.
Despite this, she is thrilled by the visit of one of our local church partners who came to help them grow more food to lessen their poverty.
Before EFSL arrived in the village, their primary source of income was growing and processing palm oil. “If too many people were selling it, the prices went down, and we all suffered,” Fatu recalls.
The local church stepped in to help the community grow numerous kinds of new market crops. Not only have people improved their economic situation, the church also helped restore relationships within the community.
Fatu explains, “Before our training, we gossiped a lot. We were jealous of each other. Now, everybody helps each other.”
Through their service and support, EFSL shared the love of Christ in a powerful way. In fact, we are excited to share that the community leader, an ex-military officer, asked if a church could be started in the community!
Fatu may have lost her husband, but she rejoices when she thinks of the hope that has arrived.
In drought-hit Tanzania, Verian and her husband Mussa transformed their marriage, farm, and family life through church-led savings groups, conservation agriculture, and Biblical equality training. Together they now share decisions, farm work, and even cooking, proving that God’s design for unity can transform homes and communities.
When a landslide in India swept away Shylaja’s home and tailoring business, she lost everything. Tearfund’s partner provided her with a new sewing machine, empowering her to earn an income again and rebuild her family’s future. Her story is a powerful example of hope, resilience, and sustainable disaster recovery.
Takes place on Zoom, on the third Thursday of each month at 8:00 pm (EST)
