Privileged to Serve

Last month Freedom to Lead International was in Ethiopia. This is a report from the President.

Dear Friends,

Thank you for praying as seven FTL team members from various locations travelled safely, and everyone stayed relatively healthy. Our indigenous ministry partners were very excited as they learned two modules of The Garden Project: Peacemaking  and Spiritual Leadership. They reported on the profound impact of former FTL modules both on themselves and on those they lead.

Doug Gent, an attorney from Pennsylvania and FTL board member, accompanied us on this trip. Here are his reflections of the experience:

My recent visit to Ethiopia with the FTL team was an excellent opportunity to observe both the team at work and the responsiveness of the Ethiopian participants.  It quickly became evident that FTL has established a high level of trust and acceptance with these groups of Ethiopian church leaders. From the testimonies shared by participants about how prior modules have changed them personally and made them more Christ-centered leaders to their intense participation in new modules, there is no question FTL is meeting the clear need for developing Christ-centeredleaders in story-centric cultures, and is doing so with Christ-like humility and excellence.

These Ethiopian brothers and sisters are currently transferring the modules to approximately 1500 others. As the program spreads quickly, many are communicating their excitement about The Garden Project to additional leadership networks. The increasing volume of requests for FTL’s program has mushroomed well beyond our current capacity. We are grateful to be a part of this movement, and are asking God for wisdom going forward – because we urgently need it!  Once again, thank you for praying.

Privileged to Serve

In these recent meetings with Ethiopian church leaders, several participants told their stories of severe persecution and being imprisoned for their faith. They shared about leading Muslim sheikhs to Christ. As we marveled at their courage and unwavering faith, you can imagine how humbled we were when they said to us, “Where have you been? We’ve been waiting so long for FTL.” It is the greatest privilege of my life to serve them. I wish you – like Doug – could come and see for yourself. In the meantime, your prayer and support mean so much. Thank you!

Until All Have Heard,