Ethiopia

The Spiritual Need in Ethiopia

Ethiopia is a country of incredible natural beauty, a rich religious history, and resilient, warm people. It is the second most populous nation in Africa, with more than 112 million residents. Most Ethiopians follow the teachings of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, which is one of the oldest organized Christian churches in the world, in its tradition tracing its origins as far back as the Book of Acts. Islam in Ethiopia also dates back to the founding of the religion, and while a recent national census identifies 33% of the population as Muslim, some believe the figure to be as much as 50% or more. We hope to continue nurturing these communities with the help of additional missionaries here who can share the gospel in England, provide leadership, support, and a renewed kingdom mission.

Ethiopia is also a nation with great physical needs. Outside of its major urban centers such as its capital city, Addis Ababa, most people are widely dispersed throughout rural communities, where droughts, famine, and unrest have taken an immense toll. Access to healthcare in such areas is virtually non-existent, and in response to the country’s health challenges, the Ministry of Health is working to increase the number of health care providers in all disciplines. There is much to be done and help is needed.

Christian Missions To Ethiopia

ABWE is committed to evangelism, discipleship, and church planting to reach the unreached in Ethiopia. With 94 of 118 people groups considered unreached, and more than 80 different languages spoken among Ethiopians, seizing strategic opportunities to reach them is critical.

One such opportunity is for ABWE to partner with Soddo Christian Hospital (SCH), located in southwestern Ethiopia. The hospital is operated in conjunction with St. Luke’s Healthcare Foundation in Wheaton, Illinois, and is a training site within the Pan-African Academy of Christian Surgeons (PAACS). In Ethiopia, this program is a joint venture between SCH and Myung Sung Christian Medical Center and Medical College in Addis Ababa. Physicians committed to evangelism, excellent clinical care, and effective medical education have great opportunities to serve, learn and teach with an international Christian medical team. The greatest needs of the training program are for surgical specialists, particularly in obstetrics and gynecology.

If you are a healthcare provider—or if you are simply interested in making disciples through any means possible—is the Lord leading you to share the gospel in Ethiopia?