Living Parchment Ministry Shares Literature at Great Ethiopian Run
Reading Time: 4 minutesThe Great Ethiopian Run on Sunday, November 23, brought tens of thousands to the streets of Addis Ababa, and among them was the Living Parchment Ministry (LPM), seizing the opportunity to share Christ-centered literature with runners and spectators alike. The outreach effort was spearheaded by Lizibie Fentaw, Head of Circulation for LPM, who was joined by Dawit Mehari, one of the leading officers of the ministry. The presence and active participation of Dawit provided significant support and encouragement to the team on the ground. During the outreach, the team met one former student of Akaki Adventist School. He was excited to receive a book from the church, explaining that it reminded him of his past and the meaningful experiences he had during his school years. The materials were gratefully accepted by individuals from all walks of life and diverse religious backgrounds. As expected in such a large public setting, some declined, and a few who initially accepted later returned the literature with a polite “no thank you.” However, Lizibie noted that no one discarded or damaged the books, which she considered a blessing. Reflecting on the day’s efforts, Lizibie Fentaw remarked, “The Sunday distribution was a success, and we are very happy. Even though what we distributed is not comparable to the vast number of people attending the run, those who took the materials were extremely happy and thankful.” This event is part of a broader, ongoing distribution campaign led and promoted by Lizibie through various social media platforms. The digital outreach has been fruitful, with a growing number of people now contacting her personally to request additional literature. Praise the Lord for the seeds planted and the new doors He has opened for sharing His message. If the Lord impresses your heart to support this ministry, we invite you to visit our donation page on the website (https://livingparchment.org/donate/). “For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love” (Hebrews 6:10). May your partnership help sow seeds that reach many for His kingdom.
BLESE Begins a New Academic Year with Hybrid Learning
Reading Time: 3 minutesLiving Parchment Ministry (LPM) has officially opened the 2025 academic year for its Bible, Leadership, and Evangelism School of Ethiopia (BLESE), one of LPM’s key ministry services. Registration was open for three weeks, during which 32 students from 15 Seventh-day Adventist churches in the Addis Ababa area joined the program. The orientation for the new academic year was held on Sunday, November 2, 2025, with 21 students in attendance. It was led by LPM’s Country Director, Zewdu Seblework, who emphasized the importance of Bible-centered education and the lasting spiritual and personal benefits students gain from BLESE. Zewdu also spoke about the physical, mental, and spiritual development that true education should provide. BLESE coordinators Nimona and Eyerusalem guided the students through the Student Code of Conduct, a one-page document addressing attendance, academic integrity, and personal commitment. Each student read and signed the document, acknowledging the high value BLESE places on attendance—where repeated lateness or absence can lead to dismissal. Eyerusalem, a BLESE graduate herself, shared a heartfelt testimony on how the program deepened her understanding of the Bible, strengthened her relationship with God, and improved her study habits. The orientation included a session where students shared their backgrounds and motivations. This highlighted their collective enthusiasm and diverse personal goals for spiritual and leadership growth through BLESE. This year marks a major step forward with BLESE’s first-ever hybrid format, combining in-person classes at the Filwoha SDA Church with online sessions via Zoom, making the program accessible to more students. The event’s success was made possible by the dedicated work of coordinators Nimona, Eyerusalem, and Melal, who organized the orientation, set up the curriculum, assigned teachers, and prepared all necessary documents. According to Dr. Yacob Alemu, Director of BLESE, this academic year will be “unique in many aspects.” The updated curriculum, expanded teaching staff through online access, and a broader academic scope will allow the school to cover at least 20 courses—more than in any previous year. BLESE continues to shine as a place where faith meets learning, equipping men and women to serve God with knowledge, leadership, and devotion.
Sheger Prison Preschool Begins New School Year with 31% Growth and Feeding Program
Reading Time: 2 minutesA renewed sense of hope filled the grounds of Sheger Prison as the Sheger Prison Seventh-day Adventist Nursery/Preschool, operated by Living Parchment Ministry (LPM), officially opened its new academic year on Friday, October 17. This year, the preschool registered 17 children—an increase of 31% from last year’s 13 students. As more female prisoners are added throughout the year, additional children are expected to join the program. A Visit of Encouragement and Care Tessfom, a friend and supporter of LPM who was in Ethiopia for other engagements, visited Sheger Prison on October 15 and 16 after learning about the ministry’s work there. During his visit, he met with over 130 male prisoners, offering words of encouragement and prayer. He also brought 120 bars of soap, followed by a second visit where he shared a generous variety of fruits with 60 inmates. He also visited the women’s section, where 24 prisoners gathered to meet him, listen to his message of hope, and pray together. The gesture was deeply appreciated by both the women and men, who expressed gratitude for being remembered and cared for in such tangible ways. Tessfom later visited the prison church and held a discussion with Pastor Wakuma Wakgari, the prison’s chaplain. The male prisoners’ board members shared updates about their ongoing church building project and asked him to represent their concerns and hopes to others abroad. “Our hope is in God,” they told him, “and we will keep praying.” Visits to the Preschool and Children’s Joy Tessfom also visited the Sheger Prison Preschool twice—first to meet the children and pray for them, and later to deliver a colorful variety of fresh fruits for all the kids. He also ordered and delivered 25 new coloring books to help the children start their new school year with joy and creativity. The mothers of the children, who are prisoners there, expressed their heartfelt appreciation. They shared that their children had not eaten fresh fruits for a long time and said the visit brought both nourishment and emotional encouragement. New Feeding Program Launches with Donor Support This school year also marks the beginning of a new feeding program at the Sheger Prison Preschool, made possible through the generous support of LPM donors. Thanks to these contributions, the children are now served some nutritious meals—home-baked bread, bananas, eggs, and rice—three days a week. LPM also purchased a bread-making mitad (a baking griddle), allowing a mixed-grain bread to be baked fresh inside the prison. Both the equipment and the feeding initiative were made possible by donor contributions, ensuring that the children receive healthy and sustaining meals. Inspector Konjit, head of the Children and Women Affairs Department at the prison, attended the school’s opening ceremony and commended the program for its impact on the children’s wellbeing and education. Faith, Growth, and Gratitude Pastor Wakuma noted the spiritual growth among the children and their families, expressing gratitude for the positive changes taking place. “There is a very good spirit of devotion here especially amongst the male prisoners,” he said, “and all are deeply thankful.” LPM extends heartfelt thanks to all donors and friends who make such programs possible. Any continued support, by visiting our donation page here, to sustain the feeding initiative is greatly appreciated.
LPM Literature Outreach During Ireecha Celebration
Reading Time: 4 minutesWhile thousands gathered in the city center, known locally as Mesqel Square, on October 4, 2025, to celebrate Ireecha, the annual Oromo people’s thanksgiving festival, Living Parchment Ministry (LPM) used the opportunity to share the message of hope through literature evangelism. LPM’s Circulation Head, Lizibie Fentaw, led a dedicated team of young people and children from Filwoha Seventh-day Adventist Church, which is located near the main Ireecha events. This marks the fourth time Lizibie has organized a literature outreach during the Ireecha celebration. During this year’s celebration, the group distributed more than one hundred copies of Christ’s Object Lessons, along with issues of Giziew magazine featuring “America in Bible Prophecy,” and various gospel tracts to attendees. In addition to the LPM team, another group led by Mrs. Enyat Sendek joined the effort, sharing hundreds of Oromiffa editions of The Great Controversy, over a thousand copies of The Bible Speaks in Oromiffa, and several English editions of The Great Controversy and other tracts. This group, of which Lizibie is also an active member, continues to do remarkable work each weekend, reaching areas that are often difficult to access with gospel materials. Over the past three years, LPM’s outreach during Ireecha has consistently included the distribution of Giziew magazine, Steps to Christ in Oromiffa, and other spiritual resources. This sustained presence reflects the ministry’s commitment to making God’s message known in every corner of society—even in the midst of cultural celebrations. “Publications must be multiplied, and scattered like the leaves of autumn.” (R&H, Nov. 21, 1878).
A Milestone Achieved: BLESE Celebrates Its First Graduation!
Reading Time: 3 minutesLiving Parchment Ministry (LPM) celebrates a historic and joyous milestone with the first-ever graduation of BLESE – The Bible, Leadership, and Evangelism School of Ethiopia (formerly ESEL). The journey began on November 4, 2022, and concluded on May 24, 2025, and faced unique challenges that extended its timeline. The classes were held at the Filwoha SDA Church, located in the heart of the city. This central location, while convenient, presented a significant obstacle. The nearby Meskel Square is a hub for major national events such as The Great Run, religious assemblies, and political rallies. These events frequently led to road closures, specifically blocking the main access route to the church and halting public transportation, forcing classes to be cancelled. Coupled with the challenges of teacher availability on hectic Sundays, the program navigated a difficult path, leading to the extended duration and, unfortunately, the dropout of some students. On graduation day, May 31, 2025, six students received diplomas, and seven students who completed at least 75% of the course were recognized with gifts. Pastor Truneh, a lifelong educator and one of the teachers, proudly handed over the diplomas. Dr. Yacob Alemu, Director of BLESE, reflected on this milestone: “This is quite an achievement regardless of the challenges we faced.” Looking ahead, BLESE is preparing for the second round of classes. To overcome past difficulties, the program will now offer a hybrid format—online and in-person twice a week. This ensures that Sunday closures and other interruptions will no longer delay learning. “We are ready and have done the preparation to do a hybrid class,” confirmed Dr. Yacob. “By God’s grace, we plan to start on time and complete the course within the expected schedule. Registration will open in the coming days—don’t miss this opportunity to grow in faith, leadership, and evangelism!“ Lessons Offered in the First Cohort: Fundamental Beliefs, Hermeneutics, Life of Paul 1 & 2, Sanctuary, Book of Daniel, Book of Revelation, Book of Romans, Church History, Effects of Hellenism on the New Testament World, Leadership & Excellence, and Health. BLESE continues to equip God’s servants to lead, teach, and serve with excellence. Be part of the next class and join this transformative journey! Stay tuned to the Living Parchment Ministry website and social media channels for the official registration announcement.
Living Parchment Ministry Expands Prison Outreach as Sixteen Join the SDA Church
Reading Time: 5 minutes* “Even behind prison walls, the gospel is setting people free.” Living Parchment Ministry (LPM), under the leadership of its prison chaplain Pastor Wakuma Wakgari, conducted the fourth baptism at Sheger Prison on Sabbath, August 23, 2025. Fifteen inmates were baptized, and one was received into fellowship by profession of faith — making a total of sixteen new members who joined the Seventh-day Adventist Church in a service filled with praise and thanksgiving. This baptism was unique because, for the first time, strict attendance was required during lessons, and candidates were given a written test to confirm their understanding before baptism. Pastor Wakuma, who directs the prison ministry, personally examined their readiness. Since taking charge of Sheger Prison’s ministry, LPM has welcomed nearly 100 prisoners into the church through baptism and profession of faith. The prison houses over 3,000 male and about 300 female inmates. LPM also oversees the prison’s preschool nursery for children of female prisoners, where a full-time teacher is hired by LPM. Thanks to recent donor support, the ministry is preparing to begin providing simple lunches so the children can attend full-day school instead of just the morning. The meals will not be large, but it will nourish the children and help them stay alert for learning. At present, the prison allocates only about 1,300 birr ($9) per month for each child’s food — far from enough to meet their needs. The day of the baptism was marked by a spirit of joy and fellowship: Reflecting on the day, Pastor Wakuma said, “This is the rainy season in Ethiopia, and it rains almost every day. We were worried the baptism might be ruined, since it was held outside in an open-air rented bathtub. But the Lord heard our prayers and held back the rain. He made all the circumstances suitable for us, and for that we give Him thanks. Because even behind prison walls, the gospel is setting people free.” Living Parchment Ministry thanks all who participated and continues to welcome support for its prison and preschool ministries. (https://livingparchment.org/donate/) ✨ With each baptism, hope is reborn within prison walls, reminding all that the power of the gospel can never be locked away.
BLESE Holds Successful 4th Winter Bible Study
Reading Time: 7 minutesThe Bible, Leadership, and Evangelism School of Ethiopia (BLESE) recently concluded its 4th Winter Bible Study, which was held from July 6 to July 25, 2025. When the program starts, a total of 49 students registered, with 28 successfully graduating after meeting the attendance requirement of 55% or higher. This year’s program marked an exciting shift for BLESE, a program under Living Parchment Ministry (LPM). Building on lessons from previous winter studies, LPM refreshed both the teaching approach and course content—a change reflected in the students’ enthusiastic feedback about its practical ministry value. Lectures and Topics Covered The Bible study meetings took place every day except on the Sabbath, with deep and engaging lessons from different teachers: One of the instructors was Pastor Mesfin Mandefro, an Assistant Professor at Ethiopian Adventist College and an expert in the New Testament. He covered: 1. Biblical Foundations & History 2. Prophecy & Spiritual Insights 3. Society & Culture in the Bible 4. New Testament Studies Zewdu Seblework, LPM Country Representative, taught on: 1. Adventist Identity & Foundations 2. Biblical Interpretation & Theology 3. Prophetic & Exegetical Studies 4. Practical Ministry & Growth Additional Instructors: Nimona Abaya did an excellent job of handling class attendance and keeping all the admin work organized. Thanks to her efforts, everything ran smoothly throughout the program. Graduation and Student Feedback We celebrated our graduates on July 26, 2025, in a special ceremony led by Pastor Daniel Alemu from Filwoha SDA Church. He handed out certificates and thoughtful gifts to each graduate. The event was particularly meaningful as we honored three outstanding students – Betselot Alemayehu, Kidus Henok, and Rediet Berhan – who achieved perfect attendance throughout the program. During the daily lunch breaks, the students didn’t just eat—they laughed, fellowshipped, and formed real friendships. What made this year’s winter Bible study special wasn’t just the powerful lessons, but the participants from other local churches in Addis. For the first time, we had participants from Kebena, Akaki, Kotebe, and Bihere Tsigie SDA churches all studying together. Many participants shared how valuable the program was for their biblical understanding. Several students mentioned gaining new insights into Scripture that deepened their faith. Others were particularly grateful for how the teachings helped them see familiar passages in fresh ways. One student shared, “I felt like I met Paul in person through these studies. The Book of Daniel used to intimidate me because it seemed complicated and as a result scared me, but not anymore after this program. Also, learning about the origins of the Seventh-day Adventist Church has significantly shifted my perspective.” Another longtime attendee noted, “I’ve attended all previous winter classes, but this one stood out. I was expecting a pretty similar thing, but not so at all. Every day brought new insights—things I’d never known or heard before. I found that I have a lot to learn and dig into. Above all, I have learned that in all aspects, be it history or prophecy or even our time or the past, that God is always love.” Several students emphasized the value of contextual study. “Understanding the Bible’s background completely changes how you read it,” one participant explained. “The concepts of ‘power to think’ and ‘power to do’ particularly helped me examine my own spiritual journey.” Others overcame longstanding fears about certain scriptures. “In previous Bible studies, I avoided Daniel and Revelation,” admitted one graduate. “Now I feel confident to study them and especially the material provided for us – Giziew Magazine – was very helpful to me. The historical context of Paul’s letters was especially helpful, and I finally was able to grasp the significance of the 1844 message through all these lessons.” A first-time attendee was equally impacted as well. As someone who has never attended this program before, I didn’t know what to expect. One of the most outstanding things I have learned is that I was reading/studying the Bible at a surface level. I have read the book of Romans for quite a number of times but now with the lessons I’ve got and its historical context I’ve learned, I’ll never read it the same way again.” The Way Forward Participants shared hopeful ideas—like bringing the program online to welcome more attendees, especially youth from other churches. This year’s Winter Bible Study went beyond surface-level learning which helped students delve deep into Scripture and come away with both understanding and practical tools they can actually use in their lives. The experience reaffirmed yet again how powerfully God’s Word transforms lives, and why investing in these emerging leaders is so crucial for carrying the Gospel forward. Living Parchment Ministry covered all costs—approximately 100,000 ETB—including daily lunches that allowed students to remain on-site and fully engaged in their studies. “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Corinthians 9:7). If you feel led to support this vital ministry, we gratefully welcome your partnership through our donation link [https://livingparchment.org/donate/]. BLESE: Equip, Empower, Evangelize.
Hope and Health: First-Ever Prison Expo at Aba Samuel
Reading Time: 5 minutesIn a truly groundbreaking initiative, Living Parchment Ministry (LPM) successfully conducted a four-day health expo at the Federal Prison Commission Higher Security Center, also known as Aba Samuel Higher Security Prison in Gelan sub-city, from March 26-29. This marked the very first time such a comprehensive health outreach had been extended to the all-male inmate population of this higher-security facility, which houses approximately 5,000 prisoners across four zones. LPM secured permission from the Federal Prison Commission, paving the way for a remarkable week. The team, comprising 5 dedicated medical doctors, 4 skilled nurses, and 13 invaluable volunteers – a total of 26 participants – received a warm welcome from prison officials on the first day. Ahead of this four-day service, the team had engaged in a special program of prayer and fasting, submitting everything to God and earnestly seeking His guidance for the health expo and their interactions. Lizibie Fentaw, Living Parchment Ministry’s Circulation Head, meticulously organized and coordinated this entire effort from the very beginning. A Zone-by-Zone Impact The expo unfolded across different zones of the prison, reaching hundreds of prisoners. Each health check-up included blood pressure readings, blood glucose monitoring, a stress test with pulse at rest, followed by another measurement after a light stretch. BMI (Body Mass Index) and body fat were also measured. These comprehensive services were paired with medical, spiritual, and psychological counseling. By the end of the four days, LPM had served a total of 605 prisoners with vital health check-ups and counseling, leading to an impressive 87 individuals registering for Bible study. Addressing Loneliness and Offering Spiritual Comfort Beyond physical health, the LPM team encountered a significant number of prisoners battling deep loneliness and distress, with some even contemplating suicide. The counseling sessions, combined with prayer and simply the genuine presence of the visitors, had a profound impact. Many prisoners expressed how deeply moved they were by the visit, noting that they often feel neglected and profoundly lonely. In addition to the medical and spiritual care, numerous books were distributed. For the Amharic-speaking prisoners, 176 copies of Christ’s Object Lessons, various other Spirit of Prophecy books, and many tracts were thoughtfully given. For the non-Ethiopian English-speaking prisoners, books like The Desire of Ages and other relevant titles were provided. These materials were given to individual prisoners and also left at the small library in each zone, ensuring ongoing access to spiritual nourishment. Notably, some well-known individuals imprisoned in the facility were also able to participate in and benefit from the services. The entire expo, including medical supplies, books, and other related expenses, amounted to close to 40,000 Birr, or about 300 dollars. This significant cost was covered through a combination of generous donations and LPM’s own resources. Living Parchment Ministry extends its heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, especially the dedicated medical doctors and health professionals who volunteered their time and expertise to make this pioneering event a success.
Ethiopian Nurse from US Brings Health and Hope to Sheger Prison
Reading Time: 4 minutesA recent two-day health education program at Sheger Prison brought vital knowledge and renewed spirits to inmates, thanks to visiting Ethiopian nurse Tigist from the U.S. and her husband, Quffa. This impactful initiative was generously funded by an anonymous donor from the USA. The engaging sessions saw an impressive turnout, with 55 women, 150 men, and 40 children with their mothers eagerly attending. Even the prison’s police officers were among the attentive listeners. Tigist, with her hands-on and practical approach, taught vital lessons on a range of topics. Prisoners learned simple, accessible home remedies for common ailments, effective ways to prevent sickness, and proper food preparation techniques. For the mothers, a particularly eye-opening segment focused on the damaging effects of excessive candy and sugar on children’s health and eating habits. Tigist also emphasized the importance of personal and child hygiene, and even shared the benefits of hydrotherapy (drinking water effectively). Learning for Life Inside and Out The lessons resonated deeply with the participants. “We used to give our kids cookies and candy when they cried, but now we’ve learned how that actually causes more problems and hurts them,” shared one mother. She added, “We will really try to reduce sugar for our children. It has affected their eating habits so much.” The mothers also expressed immense relief and happiness about LPM’s prison preschool and nursery. “We are so relieved now because our kids are finally getting an education they never had before inside the prison,” another mother explained. This education not only benefits the children but also empowers the mothers, enabling them to work and earn some money, knowing their children are safely cared for at LPM’s nursery. “It’s so hard,” shared one mother. “I’m separated from my husband and will be here for two years. I have my twins with me, and breastfeeding just isn’t enough; we simply don’t have enough food. I desperately want to send them to the nursery, but I can’t even get diapers for them. Plus, I have two more children outside that I worry about constantly.” For the men, the health lessons covered essential topics like maintaining personal cleanliness and keeping their living spaces hygienic. Many expressed that these were vital skills they would carry with them even after leaving the prison. “We’ve received lessons that will truly benefit us when we leave,” one male prisoner noted. A Community Effort, Fueled by Compassion Pastor Wakuma Wakgari, the Seventh-day Adventist church pastor for Sheger City Prison, played a crucial role in coordinating the entire event and diligently interpreting the lessons into Oromiffa, ensuring everyone understood. All the expenses for this remarkable two-day health lesson, including nutritious whole wheat bread and hygiene supplies for both women, children, and men prisoners, were fully covered by a truly heartwarming gesture. An anonymous donor from the USA facilitated the entire initiative by helping his son prepare and sell bread to raise the necessary funds, which were then sent to Ethiopia. This unique and touching act of compassion made everything possible. Living Parchment Ministry extends its profound gratitude to this anonymous donor and the young boy whose efforts brought such practical blessings to Sheger Prison. Their selfless example inspires us all. LPM encourages others who feel moved to support similar life-changing initiatives to join their mission. How You Can Help If you feel moved to support Living Parchment Ministry’s ongoing efforts to bring hope, education, and basic necessities to those in need at Sheger Prison, you can learn more about how to contribute by visiting our donation page: https://livingparchment.org/donate/. Every contribution helps us continue bringing vital programs and compassionate care to those who need it most.
Ethiopian Easter Brings Joy and Nourishment to Sheger Prison
Reading Time: 3 minutesLast Ethiopian Easter, Living Parchment Ministry (LPM) truly brought a beacon of hope and happiness to the mothers and children at Sheger Prison. It was a beautiful effort to make sure an often-overlooked group felt remembered and cared for during the holiday. A truly wonderful holiday feast was prepared with so much love by Ayantu Abera (Pastor Wakuma Wakgari’s wife) and Negassie, one of the women prisoners herself! Their hard work resulted in a delicious lunch that brought smiles to the faces of 42 mothers and their 44 children. Pastor Wakuma even shared a heartfelt devotional before the meal, setting a truly special tone for the day. And because there was so much food, extra portions were offered to other prisoners who needed it, ensuring that more people could enjoy a holiday treat. Even six of the prison’s police officers joined in the meal. More Than Just a Meal: Ongoing Support LPM’s care didn’t stop there. About 100 male prisoners also received essential hygiene items and fresh bread, addressing some everyday needs in their section of the prison. The Easter lunch was held right at LPM’s own preschool and nursery, a place that’s growing! It now provides a nurturing learning environment for 16 students, with a dedicated full-time teacher whose salary is covered by LPM. The mothers couldn’t express enough how much this meant to them. They shared how holidays can be incredibly tough, often bringing feelings of loneliness and a deep longing for home. This special Easter celebration, however, truly lifted their spirits, allowing them and their children to share in some genuine happiness. It’s heartbreaking to know that these children in the prison often get very little to eat, only $9.60 per child per month for their meals from the prison. That’s why LPM is working so hard to provide them with at least one nutritious lunch every day. This simple meal makes a huge difference, helping them concentrate better in school and feel more secure. How You Can Help Us Keep Going This particular Easter meal was entirely funded by a kind, anonymous donor from the USA – their generosity truly created a moment of immense joy. Living Parchment Ministry is profoundly thankful for every single person who supports our vital work. If you’d like to help Living Parchment Ministry continue bringing hope, education, and basic necessities to those in need at Sheger Prison, making a tax-deductible donation is easy: For our friends in Ethiopia who wish to contribute directly, donations can be made through: Together, we can bring hope and dignity to those who need it most.
