Overflowing thanks!

As we wrap up a wonderful year of ministry in Ethiopia, we want to THANK YOU for your partnership with us! 

ADOPTION
International Adoption
While our adoption program has slowed considerably (we are not able to take new families into the program because children are not being referred for adoption in the Oromia region where we work), we rejoice that eleven children were adopted in 2013 and now have forever families.  Eight families are currently in the process of adopting.  When we contemplate the futures these little ones would have faced if they had not been placed for adoption, we are re-energized to work in support of ethical adoptions and families for every child. As always, we are trusting God that His plans for adoptions in Ethiopia will be accomplished. 

Ethiopian Domestic Adoption
We opened an orphanage in Shashemene licensed to care for children found abandoned, neglected or abused.  The sweet ones there will be placed with Christian Ethiopian couples. One little girl is thriving in her new family and six others are waiting to be chosen after interested couples receive the required adoption training and complete the homestudy process.  

ADOPTION MINISTRY 1:27
2013 has been a year of tremendous growth serving poor women, children and families through Adoption Ministry 1:27.  Over 200 families were added this year alone, bringing our total number of sponsored families to 314.  Income Generating Activities (IGA) will be our main thrust for 2014 with the goal of getting 30-50 businesses strong and healthy and generating the necessary income to support the entrepreneur’s family.


EVANGELISM

Evangelism to unreached people in several rural areas of Ethiopia is expanding and we dedicated a new worship center for new converts.  Three years ago it started with 10 people, then several hundred and in 2013 we saw thousands set free by the truth of God’s Word! 

MISSIONS
Our missions director, Mark Wolbert, took over 50 people in seven different teams to Ethiopia to partner with the local churches we work with.  Teams did construction and painting projects, distributed food and charcoal to widows, ministered to women, delivered audio bibles and taught about Jesus to hundreds of children.  The 2014 mission calendar is already filling up for another year of serving – call us right away if you or your group would like to develop a team for this new year.

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Of course we couldn’t do any of what we do without your willing response to God’s Spirit in financial generosity and in prayer support.  We are so thankful to God for each of you!

All this is for your benefit, so that the grace that is reaching more and more people may cause thanksgiving to overflow to the glory of God. 
1 Corinthians 4:15

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We know there are many requests at the end of this month for donations and there are so many very worthy causes!  If you would consider a year-end gift to Adoption Ministry, we would be so grateful!  You can donate via our secure website here and your gift is income tax deductible for 2013 if processed by December 31st!

May God bless you richly with His peace and joy in the new year!