Sheger Prison Celebrates Second Baptism
On October 12, 2024, Living Parchment Ministry (LPM) held its second baptism ceremony at Sheger Prison, where 28 prisoners embraced a new life by giving their hearts to Jesus. Pastor Wakuma Wagari, hired by LPM for the prison ministry, led the baptism.
Some of those baptized were formerly involved in witchcraft and traditional worship, underscoring the depth of change this new commitment represents. Each of the baptized prisoners received a Bible and other meaningful gifts to support their spiritual journey.
Of the 28 individuals baptized, 19 were baptized by immersion, while 9 renewed their covenant by Profession of Faith. Following the baptism, 18 additional prisoners expressed a desire to study the Bible and prepare themselves for baptism, inspired by the commitment they witnessed.
Fellowship and Celebration
The baptism was followed by a special lunch, attended by around 150 people, including other prisoners who joined the celebration. This sense of fellowship encouraged several others to seek Bible study classes, motivated by the transformation evident among their peers.
Focus on Character Transformation
LPM’s primary mission is to work toward genuine character transformation among prisoners. The focus is not only on baptism but on deep, ongoing development of character traits such as honesty, patience, kindness, and respect for others.
Pastor Wakuma, along with his wife Ayantu Abera, will guide prisoners through this journey, encouraging them to live out these values in their daily interactions and relationships. LPM believes this inner transformation is the key to lasting change, helping each individual live a life of purpose and integrity within the prison and beyond.
Ongoing Spiritual Guidance
Pastor Wakuma teaches baptismal classes twice a week at Sheger Prison and is currently leading a study on the Book of Daniel. He also conducts full Sabbath worship programs.
A new baptismal class for women has resumed, with Ayantu working alongside Lizibie Fentaw, a dedicated lay evangelist who has felt a deep burden for prisoners and prison ministry for years. Lizibie brings her experience and compassion to the women’s Bible and baptismal classes, while Pastor Wakuma also supports these efforts, nurturing the spiritual growth of the women as they prepare for baptism.
Expanding the Ministry
LPM aims to extend its prison ministry to other facilities, bringing hope and transformation to more lives. The Sheger Prison baptism, which cost 40,000 birr (around 350 USD), was made possible thanks to generous donations from supporters. LPM expresses deep gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this event a success.
How to Support
To support Living Parchment Ministry’s work, tax-deductible donations can be made via Zelle at 972-876-9135 or through PayPal here. Donations to LPM accounts in Ethiopia can be made through Abyssinia Bank (148851174). Every contribution helps expand the ministry’s reach.
For more information, visit LPM’s official page at Living Parchment Ministry.
To read this report in Amharic, click here.
