Dear Prospective Donor,

 

I am writing to share an important update regarding the Ethiopian Deaf Ministry and a critical fundraising initiative currently underway to support our schools and churches in Ethiopia.

 

According to Gallaudet University’s Office of International Affairs (https://gallaudet.edu/center-black-deaf-studies/new-partnership-extends-gallaudets-global-efforts-to-ethiopia/), Ethiopia is home to a Deaf population of about 4.5 million individuals. In addressing this great need, the Church of Christ has for over 60 years supported Deaf education in Ethiopia. Unfortunately, recent years have seen a decline in these ministries as the focus shifted toward hearing students, leading to a shortage of Deaf leaders and a loss of sign language proficiency. To reverse this trend, we have launched a new initiative led by the Addis Ababa Deaf Church to restore Ethiopian Sign Language (ESL) training and develop Deaf preachers and teachers.

 

We are already seeing significant progress. In Hawassa, we have commenced sign language training for 45 Deaf adults and children, while ongoing ESL classes in Senteria and Mazoria currently serve 42 participants. In Nekemite, we are successfully reversing previous declines through remote support during periods of local unrest. Our five-year goal is to establish ESL and Amharic literacy in all four towns, ensuring each school has at least two Deaf teachers and one Deaf preacher by Year 3, with plans to expand the ministry to additional towns by Year 5.

 

To sustain this vital work, we require approximately $2,000 per month. This funding covers salaries for eight trainers across four cities, administrative oversight by Nebeiyu Mussie and Mulugeta Adera, and annual support visits by a Flying Hands Ministry staff member.

 

The Deaf International Ministry of Flying Hands Ministry is helping to raise these funds, and we would appreciate your prayers and, if possible, a monthly financial contribution of $10, $20, $50, or more. Donations can be made by clicking the "Donate" button below. Or you can contact us for an address and write a check to “Flying Hands Ministry” with a note saying it is for the Deaf Ethiopian Ministry. Donors will receive a quarterly newsletter on our work.

 

Thank you for your generosity and for making an eternal difference for the Deaf community in Ethiopia!

 

God bless!