Fall 2024 - Ministry Highlights

Fall ‘24 - Ministry Highlights

I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.

John 8:12

Outreach

The Word of God is transforming the lives of Somali Muslims here in Columbus. Through COLIM, we continue to nurture the baptized Somali Christians with the Word and Sacrament and to proclaim the Gospel to Muslims who still do not know Jesus, the crucified and risen Savior. This ministry outreach is through our daily connection with Muslims, building relationships, visiting their apartments, conversing about (eternal) life, offering prayers, and inviting them to our church. The Lord is at work.

This past summer, we started a connection with Zahra, a Somali Muslim woman. Now she lets us into her apartment and allows us to pray for her family. We visit and pray for Zahra weekly. Lord willing, Zahra will come to our church this November for confirmation class toward baptism.

Ebenezer Summer Conference

Ebenezer congregation held a conference at the end of Summer 2024. A Lutheran pastor from Ethiopia (third from the left in the conference picture below) was our guest speaker. In attendance were close to 200 adults and 75 children. The Ebenezer congregation women sang during the conference.

Ebenezer Youth Ministry

We are pleased to currently have eight young adults taking confirmation class.

For the sake of Christ’s mission,

Rev. Dr. Berhanu Arsse
Pastor – Ebenezer Church & Missionary (COLIM)

Thanksgiving Report and Prayer Requests

Please pray for Somali Christian brothers and sisters, that they may continue to grow in Christ and that others notice the aroma of (eternal) life in them.

Pray that the Lord continues to open the hearts of Somali Muslims to humbly listen to, and learn about Jesus, our Savior and Lord.

This holiday season, as we plan Thanksgiving and Christmas dinners for Somali Muslims to come and hear about Jesus, we ask for your prayers.

Please pray for God’s provision as some Somali Christians plan to pursue a vocational/tent-making ministry to sustain the Gospel outreach.

Please pray for resources as we care for persecuted Somali Christians in need, cf. Galatians 6:10.

As the Lord blesses you and as you feel led, please prayerfully consider supporting our Gospel mission outreach financially. Your partnership has an eternal impact on the lives of the many Somali Muslims who are yet to hear and believe in the Gospel of Jesus Christ!