Beyond the Melody: Books Accompanied the Songs of “No Greater Love”
Reading Time: 4 minutesOn this Good Friday, April 10, the spirit of sacrifice was tangible both on stage and in the streets. For half a century, the Filwoha SDA Church joint choir has marked this day with a sacred concert, drawing attendees from every walk of life and diverse religious backgrounds. This year’s milestone event, titled “No Greater Love,” served as the perfect backdrop for a wonderful literature outreach led by the Living Parchment team. Under the leadership of Circulation Head Lizibie Fentaw, the Living Parchment team was out in full force, ensuring that every guest left with more than just a melody in their hearts. Lizibie and her dedicated team approached guests with warmth, distributing life-changing publications including: The youth were also central to the mission. Energetic children lined the walkways, handing out tracts and inviting passersby to explore the messages of hope. By the end of the event, it was reported that every single guest had received a book, a magazine, or both. The impact was immediate, as many recipients expressed deep gratitude and promised to read the materials. A standout moment involved a young man from the media industry who had previously received books from our Christmas concert distribution. He returned today with a thankful heart, stating that he now has questions and wants to talk. He has already scheduled an appointment to discuss his questions as a powerful testament to the “silent preachers” at work. This successful mission was made possible by the unwavering support of our donors. A special “thank you” goes out to those who participated in the “3 for $5” challenge. Your generosity turned these pages into a reality for hundreds of seekers today. It is not too late to help! You can still support the “3 for $5” challenge and fuel our next distribution by visiting our donation page at https://livingparchment.org/donate/. The music and the printed word joined together to leave an eternal echo in every heart.
A Historic Milestone: The First SDA Baptism at Aba Samuel Higher Security Prison
Reading Time: 5 minutesThis 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.
LPM Distributes Literary Gifts to Notable Ethiopian Personalities
Reading Time: 4 minutesA number of prominent Ethiopians received book gifts offered to them.
A Little Boy’s Tears and a Gift That Changed His Day
Reading Time: 4 minutes“Who knows what this boy will be in the future? Maybe he’ll grow up to be a leader, a teacher, or a man who will look back on this day and remember that someone saw him, and someone gave him something precious.”
Victory in Adwa, Victory in Christ: LPM Shares Freedom at the Adwa Celebration
Reading Time: 3 minutesToday, as the nation of Ethiopia celebrates the 130th anniversary of the glorious Victory of Adwa, Living Parchment Ministry (LPM) was on the ground to share a different kind of liberty—the spiritual freedom found in the Word of God. The national celebration took place at the Adwa Victory Memorial Museum. The atmosphere was charged with patriotism as the President of Ethiopia, top military commanders, and hundreds of Addis Ababa residents gathered to honor the heroes of 1896. Amidst the sea of flags and traditional attire, LPM saw a divine opportunity to reach hearts with the “everlasting gospel.” A Gift for the People Lizibie Fentaw, Circulation Head for LPM, led the outreach initiative. She focused on distributing high-quality copies of Christ’s Object Lessons, a timeless classic that reveals the deep spiritual meanings behind the parables of Jesus. The response from the public was overwhelmingly positive. As books were handed out, many recipients expressed deep gratitude, surprised to receive such beautifully bound, high-quality literature free of charge. Hearts Touched: Personal Stories The Holy Spirit was clearly at work among the crowds. One gentleman was visibly moved after receiving his copy. “Please, call and invite me,” he urged Lizibie. “I am deeply interested in attending your church services. I need a place where I can find peaceful worship.” In another touching moment, an elderly resident approached Lizibie and said, “I love to read books about the Lord Jesus Christ. May I have a copy?” His request highlights the universal hunger for the truth about the Savior, transcending denominational lines. Powered by Your Generosity This mission was made possible entirely through the selfless support of our partners. Because of the donations LPM received, we were able to provide these expensive, high-quality books to the public at no cost. LPM is deeply thankful to our donors. It is through your financial sacrifices that we can stand at historic events like the Adwa celebration and put the tools for eternal life into the hands of those who are searching. A Prayer for the Readers As the celebration concludes and the crowds return to their homes, our work continues through prayer. We ask our supporters to join us in praying that every person who received a book today will be led by the Holy Spirit as they read. May the lessons of Christ provide them with a victory far greater than any earthly battle—the victory of peace and eternal life. To support the ongoing work of Living Parchment Ministry and help us distribute more literature across Ethiopia, please visit our donation page.
From Health Expo to Baptismal Class: Building an Adventist Family Behind Bars
Reading Time: 5 minutesLiving Parchment Ministry (LPM) continues its expanding prison ministry work at the Federal Prison Commission Higher Security Center, also known as Aba Samuel Higher Security Prison, located in Gelan sub-city on the outskirts of Addis Ababa. This is a federal higher-security prison with an all-male inmate population of approximately 5,000 prisoners, divided across four zones. Foundation Laid Through Health Ministry Some months ago, LPM organized its first-ever health expo at this higher-security prison. The expo was conducted over four days, from March 26–29, 2025, and marked a historic moment of service. The team comprised 5 dedicated medical doctors, 4 skilled nurses, and 13 invaluable volunteers, making a total of 26 participants who devoted their time and expertise. By the end of the four days, 605 prisoners had been served with vital health check-ups and counseling. Following this health outreach, a number of prisoners expressed interest in studying the Bible. Since then, LPM has been conducting Bible study (baptismal classes) twice a week. These classes are taught by Temesgen Alemayehu from Goffa SDA Church, who is volunteering as a Bible teacher in collaboration with Lizibie Fentaw. Temesgen has already taught one quarter of the doctrines from the 28 Fundamental Beliefs of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. To read the previous report on the Health Expo, visit:https://livingparchment.org/first-ever-health-expo-brings-hope-to-aba-samuel-higher-security-prison/ Ethiopian Genna Celebration at the Prison On January 13, 2026, a group led by Lizibie Fentaw, the tireless Head of Circulation for LPM, visited Aba Samuel Higher Security Prison to celebrate Ethiopian Genna (Christmas), which is traditionally observed on January 7. The entire program was organized by Lizibie and her dedicated team, who consistently support prison ministry through their time, energy, and personal resources. Present on this day were five women and two men from the Personal Ministries Department of Filwoha SDA Church, along with one participant from Lafto SDA Church. The group brought food (three loads of agelgil – baskets laden with traditional holiday foods), difo bread (large, round wheat bread), qolo (roasted grains and chickpeas), and cases of drinking water for the prisoners. Worship, Word, and Fellowship The sermon was delivered by Temesgen Alemayehu, who continues to volunteer faithfully with LPM. His message deeply touched the prisoners. The group also sang two spiritual songs, and later received heartfelt feedback from the prisoners about how meaningful the message and music were. Additionally, Estifanos Mengistu gave a short lesson focused on the theme of love, which further enriched the program. Literature Distribution A wide selection of spiritual and educational materials was distributed, including: A total of 129 books were freely given to prisoners and others who showed interest in reading. A Historic Gathering Across All Zones This higher-security prison is divided into four zones, and this was the first time prisoners from all four zones were invited together—in the name of the Seventh-day Adventist Church—to gather in one hall and be served in this way. Those invited included prisoners already attending the baptismal class, as well as others who were invited by friends from the class. Nearly 60 prisoners, excluding additional participants, were served lunch. After the meal, around 20 prisoners responded with interest to begin Bible study. LPM’s mission and ongoing work were explained to all attendees. Restoring Dignity and Building Community The prisoners expressed deep appreciation, stating that they had never before been called respectfully from their zones, gathered together, and served lunch by the SDA Church. Many shared that this act restored their sense of dignity. They also rejoiced in meeting fellow baptismal-class members from other zones, saying they now felt like one Adventist family. Representatives from each zone were elected, and books were given to them so others in their zones could borrow and read—effectively establishing a small literature depository within the prison. During the meal, the group continued singing, which further touched the prisoners and left a lasting impression. Support, Gratitude, and Future Hope A portion of the day’s expenses was covered by LPM and an anonymous donor who contacted Lizibie directly. LPM is prayerfully working toward completing the current baptismal class within the next five months, with the hope of conducting the first Seventh-day Adventist baptism inside this higher-security prison. Special prayers were offered for Temesgen Alemayehu and the newly elected zone representatives. The program lasted the entire day. LPM expresses its deepest gratitude to: The prisoners described the day as one that restored honor, unity, and hope. Historical Note The Federal Prison Commission Higher Security Center (Aba Samuel Higher Security Prison) was formerly known as Kality Prison. The prisoners currently housed at Aba Samuel were transferred from Kality Prison, which is now designated exclusively for female prisoners. As this prison ministry continues, Living Parchment Ministry is grateful for every prayer and every act of kindness that helps sustain this work. For those who feel led to support Bible study, literature sharing, and simple acts of care for the prisoners, your partnership is deeply appreciated. Even the smallest gift makes a meaningful difference. To support this ministry, please visit https://livingparchment.org/donate/. Above all, we ask for your continued prayers for the prisoners and for those serving among them.
More Than a Concert: Christmas Eve Marked by Generous Book Distribution
Reading Time: 3 minutesJanuary 7 marks Ethiopian Christmas, widely known as Genna, a season celebrated with worship, music, and reflection across the country. For decades, Filwoha Seventh-day Adventist Church in Addis Ababa has upheld a cherished tradition of preparing a special music concert on the eve of this holiday. This year’s concert took place on January 6, 2026, continuing a legacy of praise and community engagement. On the same evening, a spirit of worship filled the area surrounding Filwoha Church as Orthodox brothers and sisters gathered at the nearby Meskel Square for a song service. Organized by a group known as the Ethiopian Jandereba Generation, this public worship event—called የአእላፋት ዝማሬ (The Melody of Myriads)—was held for the third time and drew many attendees who came to welcome Genna with songs and thanksgiving. Capitalizing on the large number of people in the vicinity, a dedicated team from Living Parchment Ministry (LPM), led by Lizibie Fentaw (Head of Circulation) and including Melaku Mesfin, Israel Getachew, and Tigist Kassa, set up a distribution table at the church’s front gate. Their mission was to offer free spiritual literature as a Genna gift. The selection included coveted titles such as Christ’s Object Lessons, The Desire of Ages, Patriarchs and Prophets, The Great Controversy, and The Bible Speaks (the latter two in Oromiffa). The response was overwhelmingly positive. A total of 132 books were freely given to a diverse audience—Protestant and Orthodox attendees, young and old. Several priests gratefully accepted the books, with one remarking, “I know the Adventist Church, and I have always admired your gentleness and orderliness. Thank you for these books—I enjoy reading them.” Many recipients expressed that these were valuable gifts, noting, “These are expensive books; we truly appreciate your generosity.” This generous act was funded by two key contributors. The joint choir members of Filwoha SDA Church covered the expense for most of the books. In a commendable modern touch, they also provided a QR code for attendees to access additional digital resources from Hope Channel and other platforms. Living Parchment Ministry (LPM) covered the full cost for the copies of Christ’s Object Lessons. A number of magazines and flyers were also distributed. The initiative successfully engaged passersby, many of whom were drawn from the Meskel Square area by the offer of free books and stayed to enjoy the church’s song service. They left carrying both musical inspiration and precious spiritual resources. Living Parchment Ministry extends sincere appreciation to the Joint Choir members of Filwoha SDA Church, to Lizibie Fentaw and all the individuals who worked alongside her, and to everyone who contributed time, resources, and effort to make this Genna Eve outreach a blessing to many. Through music, literature, and cooperation, the true spirit of Genna—peace, goodwill, and hope—was beautifully shared.
Filwoha Adventurers Deliver Genna Joy to Sheger Prison Nursery/Preschool
Reading Time: 4 minutesIn a wonderful display of compassion ahead of Ethiopian Genna (Christmas), the Adventurer Club from Filwoha Seventh-day Adventist Church visited the children at the Sheger Prison SDA Nursery/Preschool on Sunday January 4, 2026. The Adventurer Club is a Seventh-day Adventist church-sponsored ministry open to all children ages 4-9. This spirit of unity was on full display as 21 club members, accompanied by their parents, traveled to the prison to share love and gifts with 44 children living there with their imprisoned mothers. The visit was coordinated by the club’s director, Israel Getachew, whose exceptional coordination and heartfelt organization created a seamless and impactful program. The club members, in full uniform, performed march drills, sang uplifting songs, and personally presented a gift to each child at the school, whose ages ranged from infants to 11 years old. “This Genna season, we wanted the children here to know they are not forgotten and that they are loved,” said Israel Getachew, who also inspired the children with a story. The program was further enriched by a meaningful sermon on the life of Joseph from parent Isayas Fufa and a group song performed by the parents. The generosity extended beyond companionship. The visitors distributed balls, toys, nutritious whole wheat bread, and fruits. Thanks to donations from Filwoha Church members, children’s shoes, clothing, women’s apparel, and essential hygiene pads for 192 women prisoners were also provided. Filwoha SDA Church facilitated the trip by providing its minibus, with parents covering all other expenses for the day. The nursery/preschool itself, run by Living Parchment Ministry (LPM), has been operating since January 2025, providing formal education and essential care. LPM’s voluntary school administrator, Lizibie Fentaw, who also serves as a teacher in the Adventurer Club’s Helping Hand group, helped coordinate the visit. On this special day, LPM also donated a 43-inch television to the nursery/preschool through the generous support of its donors. This resource will help children learn songs and educational content and will also support the spiritual growth of the women at the prison. A full report on this and other developments related to the nursery/preschool will be shared in the future. The emotional impact of the school’s work was voiced by one mother during the event, who stated through tears, “Ever since my child started to attend the Nursery/Preschool, I have seen changes in him. I am very happy… I want to say thank you.” Like Filwoha, other churches are highly encouraged to participate in such acts of mercy and care for the Nursery/Preschool. Any church interested in organizing a similar visit is welcome to contact us at +251 91 191 8194. For individuals or groups moved to support this vital nursery/preschool work—including the crucial mission to cover nutritious daily meals for the children—please visit our donation page here. Living Parchment Ministry warmly thanks the parents, the Adventurers Club of Filwoha SDA Church, and the entire Filwoha Church family for standing with these children and mothers. Together, through shared love and service, we can continue to bring hope where it is needed most.
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.
