Dear friends,
Twenty-three years ago, Doug and Barb Miller moved their young family to Malawi to serve among the Yawo people, a group that has historically been hard to reach with the Gospel. Through the Miller’s ministry of prayer, chronological Bible teaching, and long-term relationship building, more than thirty village Bible study groups have formed to disciple young believers and help seekers learn about Jesus.
The Yawo ministry team, from left to right: Madalitso and Ethel Kaputa with their two children; Estol and Kristen Bathurst with their five children; and Doug and Barb Miller.
Today, Doug and Barb have retired back in the U.S., but the work they started continues. Madalitso and Ethel Kaputa (ministers from BIC Malawi) and Estol and Kristen Bathurst (BIC U.S. missionaries from Kansas) now lead the ministry. Madalitso, who is partially Yawo, brings vital cultural insight to the team and has devoted his life to making disciples among his people.
In addition to Madalitso, more Yawo believers are expanding the reach of the Gospel. The Kaputas and Bathursts mentor a growing number of Apprentice Readers (discipleship group leaders) who share weekly Bible lessons in village groups. These are people who have experienced the life-changing power of Christ and want their family and friends to also encounter Jesus.
This outreach is effective, and the number of Yawo believers is growing. This fall, eighteen people were baptized, a huge step as they publicly proclaim their faith in Christ.
I truly believe that this kind of investment in long-term relationships bears fruit for eternity, and it is made possible by the generous prayerful and financial support BIC U.S. World Missions receives. This Christmas, would you partner with us by making a year-end gift to BIC U.S. World Missions?
I pray God’s rich blessings over you and your family as you celebrate the birth of Christ. Thank you for your partnership in the Gospel.
Jonathan Lloyd
BIC U.S. World Missions Director
Our generous supporters make long-term ministry like this possible; learn more about World Missions and consider making a year-end gift.
