Burundi
The
Episcopalian Church invited Liebenzell to join their ministry efforts in
1992. They were concerned that an aging church leadership could not prepare
young pastors to continue ministry within the church. One year later, civil
war broke out and has only recently come to a peaceful resolution.
Seventy-five percent of the country’s 6.3 million people are Catholic
and there is a growing influence of Islam. Tribal religions and traditions
continue to dominate the culture.
One of the
five poorest nations of the world, 90% of Burundians work
in agriculture. The tension between the Hutu and Tutsi people
groups – the root cause of the 13 year civil war – is still quite noticeable throughout the country.
Liebenzell's ministries focus upon training of church leaders and evangelism
through medical care. TEE (Theological Education by Extension) courses
have distributed over 15,000 books in the last four years. Construction of
a Bible school in Muramvya was completed in 2005. with 30 deacons attending initially. In 2006, a regular three-year academic program was begun.
The Shombo clinic has become one of the most used medical facilities of its kind in the country. This also provides a springboard for AIDS education and relief efforts.
Prayer
Requests:
• Production of materials and conducting
correspondence courses (TEE)
• Medical work at the health center
in the Shombo region
• Evangelistic church promotion
• Reconciliation between the Hutu and
Tutsi
Recent News:
• Hope and Trust in the Face of War (22 Apr.)