By Andy Stovell (Christ Church Central, Sheffield, UK)
I love how God connects people in unlikely ways.
In Sheffield, UK, Kerry started reading Genesis once a week for a year. Then she did the same with John's gospel. It has hugely impacted her love for the Creator God who became man for her salvation
Over 5,000 miles away, Oggie & Navchaa serve a network of Mongolian churches, and are embarking on an ambitious project to distribute 15,000 copies of a book with the full texts of Genesis and John.
'In the Beginning' will be printed as a story book for this storytelling culture. "Both books start with 'In the beginning'. Genesis reveals the creator God; John shows the way to God is Christ," Oggie explained at Radstock's recent Round Table. "We should teach this - or people can think Jesus is just one more god to add to the many deities of shamanism."
Oggie fears polytheism still underlies many people's thinking in Mongolia, even in the church.
"Churches will distribute the book for believers to share the Good News with animist family and friends. We will provide guidance in using them - to also help those who think they know about Jesus, but are not saved."
They are very aware of the need for partnership in this Mongolian response to a Mongolian missional issue: "We would love partners in Radstock churches to stand with us as we take on this big task."
Kerry and I found one way to stand with them. We called Oggie on Zoom and suggested that as many as possible in the Mongolian churches repetitively read Genesis and John - just as Kerry had: for their own blessing, and to prepare them for the coming season of mission.
Will You Sponsor copies of the 'in the beginning project'?
Oggie and Navchaa are praying and planning to print 15,000 copies of 'In the Beginning' - 5,000 each of the 3 versions:
- Large font for elderly and nomads
- Classic version for city people
- Contemporary version for youth
Each book with cost $2 (£1.60 / €1.85) to print - more will be needed for distribution costs.
Could you and your church sponsor 10 / 50 / 100 copies - or more?
A Note On Gifts From:
- Northern Europe (please include 'In The Beginning' in the payment reference)
- USA (please choose 'Mongolia Projects' from the donations menu)
- Canada (Please include 'Mongolia - Beginning' in the message box)
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