On Friday, April 3, 2026, Living Parchment Ministry (LPM) celebrated a historic milestone: the very first Seventh-day Adventist baptism held inside the Federal Prison Commission Higher Security Center also known as Aba Samuel Higher Security Prison. This event was the direct result of the seeds planted during our first-ever prison health expo held from March 26-29, 2025. It is inspiring for our readers to see these six souls commit to Christ as a product of an effort that began a year ago.
The Journey to the Water
The path to this day has been a steady journey of study. Following the health outreach last March, inmates began studying the 28 Fundamental Beliefs of the SDA Church. We owe a great debt of gratitude to Temesgen Alemayehu, who served as the dedicated instructor. Despite a two-month disruption in the middle of the course, Temesgen did a wonderful job ensuring the students were ready. To confirm their understanding, the candidates completed both a written examination and a personal oral interview before the ceremony. Temesgen was deeply appreciated for his unwavering dedication, and in recognition of his service, Sister Zewdnesh Mengistu presented him with a special gift.
A Day of Celebration and Word
The program ran from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Gutu Amanuel shared a stirring message with the baptismal team and the prisoners present. Drawing from the words of Jesus, he reminded the audience that whether a person comes to Christ at the “11th hour” or has been there from the earliest hour, both will be rewarded with the Kingdom of God.
The baptism was conducted by Pastor Sintayehu Mekonnen of the Filwoha Church. Among the six baptized were two brothers, joining the family of God together.
The Power of Truth
The impact of these lessons has been life-changing. Some of the newly baptized men shared that learning the truth about the Sabbath and the biblical correction of the wrong doctrine regarding the immortality of the soul were entirely new concepts that gave them a sense of true freedom.
One particularly dedicated prisoner was set to be baptized on Friday but could not attend due to a scheduling conflict. Despite his family telling him, “When you get released, don’t come to our home; find another place to go,” he remained committed. He finished all his lessons and declared that no matter what comes to his life, he has committed himself to Jesus. He will definitely be baptized in the next round.
Fellowship and Service
The spirit of community was vibrant, with 17 church members from various congregations across Addis Ababa attending. These volunteers were instrumental in taking care of and serving the newly baptized and the rest of the audience.
- Music: Abraham Yoseph rendered a special song, and Hermela, Melat, Kidus, and Elsa also blessed the audience with a special song.
- Hospitality: LPM covered the expense for a celebratory lunch for almost 100 people.
- Gifts: Each newly baptized member received a Bible and a copy of Christ’s Object Lessons. Additionally, a few prison police officers were also given Bibles. Our appreciation goes to Dr. Tizazu Engidaw who bought the Bibles.
A Growing Ministry
LPM continues to be active in prison ministry across the area:
- Aba Samuel: Right now, there are 15 more prisoners at this facility who are currently taking another baptismal class.
- Sheger Prison: LPM has been engaged here as well, where about 100 prisoners have been baptized or joined the church through profession of faith so far.
- Note: At Sheger Prison, another baptism was conducted the following day, Saturday, April 4. We will provide a full report on that event in our next update.
Heartfelt Appreciation
This journey would not have been possible without the vision of Lizibie Fentaw, LPM’s Circulation Head. Lizibie is the person who made all of this happen. She coordinated the original health expo, followed up with the baptismal classes, and managed the efforts that led to these first-ever baptisms at the facility.
Finally, we extend our deepest thanks to our generous and consistent donors. All expenses for the lunch and the gifts were covered by the donations we collected from you. We seriously appreciate our donors; all of this is happening because of your support. Together, we have witnessed the very first SDA baptism inside Aba Samuel Higher Security Prison, and by God’s grace, it will not be the last.
To God be the glory for these new lives in Christ!
