Ethiopia Update – February 2025

Standing Firm in the Face of Persecution: A Call to Prayer for Yikdem Getachew

One morning, Pastor Mulat Siyoum, our regional leader in Western Arsi and Bale, received a distressing phone call from Yikdem Getachew, one of our dedicated church planters in the village of ABELLA—a predominantly Muslim community.

With urgency in his voice, Yikdem reported that a group of extremist Muslims had attacked their church, setting it on fire. As the flames engulfed the small church shade hall, he was confronted and threatened, forcing him to flee for his life. He made the call while hiding in the nearby bush, uncertain of what would happen next.

Our Leaders visit the burnt the Church in ABELLA Village

But then, something remarkable happened. By the grace of God, the fire did not fully consume the church hall—it simply stopped burning on its own. Many in the village were astonished, unable to explain how the flames ceased before completely destroying the church shade hall. For the believers, this was nothing short of a miracle and a testament to God’s protection.

Despite the ongoing threats, Yikdem remains steadfast in his calling. He has chosen to stay in the village, unwavering in his commitment to proclaim the Gospel, even in the face of danger. His faith is unshaken, and his heart is set on being faithful to Jesus—no matter the cost.

As he continues to stand firm in the midst of fear and uncertainty, Yikdem urgently asks for the prayers of all our partners. Please pray for his safety, courage, and endurance—that he may remain faithful to Christ until the very end.

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 5:10

Empowering Leaders for Lasting Impact in Southern Ethiopia

Training and equipping leaders remains one of our top priorities in ministry. We firmly believe that when leaders are healthy—spiritually, emotionally, and strategically—their churches and communities will also thrive.

Recently, we had the privilege of training 40 key leaders from 21 different churches and denominations in Arbaminch, a town in the southern region of Ethiopia. The training focused on “Exploring and Implementing the Jesus Way of Developing Leaders and Making Disciples.” Our goal is not just to provide information but to cultivate transformation by helping leaders return to Jesus’ model of leadership and disciple-making.

Training our Leaders

Unlike many training programs that are a one-time event, our approach is not a “hit-and-run” training. We are committed to an ongoing process that includes follow-up coaching, implementation support, and mentoring sessions to ensure that the movement continues to grow and bear fruit.

We were honored to have Mengistu Boshe, the Regional Secretary of the Ethiopian Evangelical Believers Council, attend the training. In his remarks, he emphasized the significance of this movement, describing it as a unique and divinely inspired initiative to revive the church and guide leaders back to Jesus’ way of ministry and disciple-making. His endorsement reaffirms the importance of this work and the profound impact it can have in the region.

We want to take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to all our partners, supporters, and prayer warriors. Your prayers, generosity, and encouragement enable us to continue equipping leaders who will, in turn, transform their churches and communities.

Thank you for standing with us in this vital mission!

Together, we are raising leaders and making disciples—Jesus’ way.

Praise and Prayer Requests

Dear Friends and Family of Unite 4 Africa,

We are deeply grateful for your continuous prayers and unwavering support for our ministry. Your partnership strengthens us as we strive to advance God’s Kingdom. As we move forward in this mission, we invite you to join us in lifting the following praises and prayer requests before the Lord:

• Pray for Persecuted Believers in Ethiopia – Please intercede for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are facing persecution for their faith. May God protect them and their families, grant them courage and endurance in their trials, and fill them with His peace and strength.
• Pray for Our Leaders and Churches – Ask God to transform the lives of the leaders we serve through our training programs. May He equip them with wisdom, empower their ministries, and bring renewal to their churches as they seek to fulfill His calling.
• Pray for the Upcoming Baptism Event – In February, we will witness a powerful step of faith as more than 1000 new believers publicly declare their commitment to Christ through baptism. Pray that the Holy Spirit strengthens them, deepens their faith, and empowers them to grow as faithful disciples.

Your prayers and support mean the world to us. Thank you for standing with us as we labor together for His glory. May God bless you abundantly!

Samson Weldemariam /Rev./

Africa & Ethiopia director of U4A