24 February, 2025

Encouragement in Egypt

Eqypt... the land of the Nile, the pyramids, the Sphinx, the great Alexandria library, The Pharaohs lighthouse (where Fort Qaitbay Citadel was constructed on its site, during the Mamluk rule of Egypt, after it was destroyed by an earthquake) and some of the earliest history recorded by mankind. 
 
Paul and Shannon recently travelled to this ancient land, to spend some time with one of our dear friends and Issachar partner; and to support and encourage his ministry amongst his pioneering discipleship school. This school draws partners from largely displaced communities in the region. 
 
We were also joined by South African friends, who lead a church in Potchefstroom, who long to see their community catch a heart for partnership amongst the unreached. They have a passion for intercession and spiritual freedom – it was a delight to be with them and pray in this nation together. We look forward to seeing what Jesus unpacks with our friendship.
 
Another friend from the region, who has an influential ministry among the unreached, met us in Cairo. We had a wonderful time praying together at the ancient Islamic city gates of Cairo, and strategizing how we can collaborate and gather partners together, to be more effective in reaching the unreached, through mobilising indigenous church planting networks. We are excited to see how God is extending our borders and influence amongst the unreached and persecuted church.
 
It was so encouraging to be amongst brothers and sisters, many of whom have been displaced by war/political upheaval/financial difficulties, and to see what God is doing amongst them, despite severe trials. The indigenous discipleship school offers a highly practical and discovery process of exploring and building scriptural foundations of the Christian faith and applying these truths into their particular cultural context. 
 
We were privileged to worship and fellowship with believers from Sudan, South Sudan, Yemen and Egypt. Our friend ministers amongst other partners from North Africa and the Arabic speaking world. Please continue to pray for him, his family and his work amongst the unreached.